Gravity Rush 2 is a captivating action-adventure game that pushes the boundaries of gravity-based gameplay. Released in 2017 by Sony Interactive Entertainment, it serves as the sequel to the original Gravity Rush. The game follows the adventures of Kat, a gravity-shifting heroine, as she navigates a stunning open world filled with vibrant characters, thrilling battles, and mind-bending mechanics. In this review, we’ll dive deep into what makes Gravity Rush 2 a standout title, examining its gameplay, story, graphics, and more.
Gravity Rush 2 Gameplay Overview
Unique Gravity Mechanics
One of the most defining features of Gravity Rush 2 is its gravity manipulation mechanics. Players take control of Kat, who can defy the laws of physics by shifting gravity to float, fly, and perform acrobatic stunts. This ability is not just a gimmick; it’s the core of the game’s identity. The gravity-shifting mechanics offer a refreshing twist on traditional action-adventure gameplay, allowing for dynamic combat and exploration.
Combat System and Abilities
Gravity Rush 2 enhances the combat system from its predecessor by introducing new gravity styles. Kat can switch between three distinct gravity modes: Lunar, Jupiter, and Normal. Each mode alters her movement, attack speed, and power. For example, Lunar mode makes Kat lighter and faster, allowing for quick, agile attacks, while Jupiter mode makes her heavier, delivering powerful, crushing blows. The combat system is fluid and versatile, encouraging players to experiment with different styles to overcome various challenges.
Open World Exploration
The game’s open world, Jirga Para Lhao, is a beautifully designed city that encourages exploration. Gravity Rush 2’s world is larger and more detailed than its predecessor, filled with side missions, hidden secrets, and vibrant NPCs. The verticality of the world is a key aspect, with different districts layered above and below one another, adding depth to exploration. Whether soaring through the skies or diving into the depths, players will find the world of Gravity Rush 2 to be rich and immersive.
Missions and Side Quests
Gravity Rush 2 offers a variety of missions, ranging from main story quests to numerous side activities. The main missions are well-crafted, often combining combat, exploration, and puzzle-solving elements. Side quests, while not always as impactful, provide additional context to the game’s world and characters. Some side quests are quirky and light-hearted, while others delve into more serious themes, offering a good balance of tone throughout the game.
Gravity Rush 2 Storyline and Characters
Plot Summary
Gravity Rush 2 picks up where the first game left off, with Kat returning to Hekseville after being swept away by a gravity storm. The story explores themes of identity, power, and societal structure, as Kat discovers her origins and the true nature of her powers. The narrative is engaging, with several twists and turns that keep the player invested in Kat’s journey. The game also delves into the lore of its world, providing a deeper understanding of the mysterious forces at play.
Character Development
Kat remains a likable and relatable protagonist, characterized by her determination, optimism, and sense of justice. Throughout the game, she is joined by a cast of memorable characters, including Raven, her fellow gravity shifter, and Syd, a loyal friend. The relationships between characters are well-developed, with meaningful interactions that add emotional weight to the story. The game does a good job of balancing light-hearted moments with more serious, dramatic scenes, making the characters feel real and dynamic.
Antagonists and Conflicts
The game introduces a variety of antagonists, from corrupt government officials to mysterious, otherworldly beings. These villains are more than just obstacles; they represent the larger themes of the story, such as the abuse of power and the struggle for freedom. The conflicts in Gravity Rush 2 are not only physical but also ideological, adding depth to the narrative.
Gravity Rush 2 Visuals and Sound Design
Art Style and Graphics
Gravity Rush 2 is a visually stunning game, with a unique art style that blends anime-inspired character designs with a vibrant, cel-shaded world. The game’s environments are richly detailed, from the bustling streets of Jirga Para Lhao to the serene, floating islands above. The use of color and lighting is particularly impressive, creating a world that feels alive and full of personality. The game’s visual style is both stylish and functional, aiding in navigation and enhancing the overall experience.
Animation Quality
The animation in Gravity Rush 2 is smooth and fluid, particularly during gravity-shifting sequences. Kat’s movements are graceful and dynamic, capturing the sense of freedom and exhilaration that comes with defying gravity. The combat animations are also well-executed, with each attack feeling impactful and satisfying. The attention to detail in the animations helps to immerse players in the game’s world, making the gameplay feel more responsive and engaging.
Soundtrack and Voice Acting
The soundtrack of Gravity Rush 2 is composed by Kohei Tanaka, known for his work on anime and video games. The music is a perfect complement to the game’s atmosphere, with a mix of orchestral and jazz influences that capture the spirit of the game’s world. The voice acting, though primarily in a fictional language, is expressive and adds to the emotional depth of the characters. The sound design, from the whoosh of gravity-shifting to the impact of combat, is also top-notch, enhancing the overall immersion.
Gravity Rush 2 Replayability and Content
Additional Content and DLC
Gravity Rush 2 offers a wealth of content beyond the main story. The game includes various side missions, challenges, and collectibles that encourage players to explore every corner of the world. Additionally, the game received a free DLC titled “The Ark of Time – Raven’s Choice,” which expands on Raven’s backstory and adds new gameplay elements. This DLC is a welcome addition, providing more depth to an already rich narrative and offering additional hours of gameplay.
Replay Value
The game’s multiple difficulty levels, combined with the different gravity styles, offer a good amount of replayability. Players can experiment with different approaches to combat and exploration, trying out new strategies on subsequent playthroughs. The open-world nature of the game also means that players can take their time exploring and completing side quests, extending the game’s longevity.
Community and Online Features
Gravity Rush 2 features online components, such as treasure hunts and challenges, where players can compete against others for high scores. While these features are not the main focus of the game, they add an extra layer of engagement for those looking for a competitive edge. The community aspect of the game is more subdued, but the shared online activities provide a fun diversion from the main game.
Gravity Rush 2 Pros and Cons
Pros
- Innovative Gravity Mechanics: The unique gravity-shifting gameplay is both fun and challenging, setting Gravity Rush 2 apart from other action-adventure titles.
- Beautiful Visuals: The game’s art style and graphics are stunning, with a vibrant and detailed world that’s a joy to explore.
- Engaging Story and Characters: The narrative is well-written, with strong character development and intriguing plot twists.
- Variety of Content: With plenty of side missions, collectibles, and DLC, there’s no shortage of things to do in Gravity Rush 2.
Cons
- Occasional Camera Issues: The gravity mechanics can sometimes cause the camera to behave erratically, particularly in tight spaces.
- Pacing in Side Quests: Some side quests feel like filler and don’t add much to the overall experience.
- Learning Curve: The gravity mechanics can take some time to master, which might be frustrating for some players.
FAQs About Gravity Rush 2
1. Is Gravity Rush 2 a direct sequel to the first game?
Yes, Gravity Rush 2 is a direct sequel to the original Gravity Rush. It continues the story of Kat, the gravity-shifting heroine, and explores her journey after the events of the first game. While it’s possible to enjoy Gravity Rush 2 without playing the first game, players who have experienced the original will have a better understanding of the story and characters.
2. How long does it take to complete Gravity Rush 2?
The main story of Gravity Rush 2 takes approximately 20-25 hours to complete, depending on how much time you spend on side quests and exploration. If you aim to complete all side missions, challenges, and collectibles, the game can take upwards of 40 hours.
3. What are the different gravity styles in Gravity Rush 2?
Gravity Rush 2 introduces three gravity styles: Normal, Lunar, and Jupiter. Normal mode is the default setting, balancing speed and power. Lunar mode makes Kat lighter and faster, allowing for quick, agile movements. Jupiter mode makes Kat heavier and more powerful, enabling her to deliver devastating attacks. Players can switch between these styles during gameplay to adapt to different situations.
4. Does Gravity Rush 2 have multiplayer or online features?
Gravity Rush 2 has online features, including treasure hunts, challenges, and leaderboards where players can compete for high scores. While these features add an extra layer of gameplay, the game does not have traditional multiplayer modes.
5. Is there any DLC for Gravity Rush 2?
Yes, Gravity Rush 2 has a free
