Even though I was not the biggest fan of the original Rage, after getting hands-on at Gamescom, in less than 15 minutes, the sequel seems to have won me over. Developed by Avalanche Studios in conjunction with ID Software, Rage 2 is a post-apocalyptic open-world shooter with vehicle combat. The section I played was mostly linear and focused on the shooting mechanics of Rage 2, which are some of the best I have played.
I had access to a pistol, an assault rifle and a shotgun; and all of those weapons felt responsive, precise and satisfying to shoot. When combined with things like good level design, the enemy hit reactions, sound effects and several other factors; it resulted in a shooting experience unlike anything else at the event.
Rage 2 is a run ‘n gun style shooter, meaning you always have to be on the move. Taking a few shots, sliding around, double jumping and taking advantage of the cover are keys to victory. The levels were open enough to facilitate this style of game, even though they were directing you along a linear.
You also have access to special powers. By holding LB and press one of the face buttons, you can either use a grand slam or shatter, a force push of sorts, to damage your enemies or get out of a tricky situation. But my favourite tool is the wingstick, which proved to be both useful and deadly in combat. By quickly tapping, you can use it to take out enemies close by, but if you hold its assigned button, it will follow the opponent select around corners and finish them off.
When prompted, you can go into Overdrive mode which massively increases your weapons and ability damage for a limited period of time. It’s a memorable visual change as well as the effects on screen are also different, to let the player know that they are into Overdrive. In addition, enemies explode when you kill them, which makes the brutal combat all the mote satisfying.
There isn’t much to be said about Rage 2 other than the fact that it has excellent combat. I did not get to see anything about the design of the world, or the story and I did not participate in any driving or vehicular driving sections which seem like they will be core features of the final game. But the few minutes I spent on the game have completely sold me on the gunplay which is where a lot of games end up falling short.
By: Parth Bagaria
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