Overlord II Reviews
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The first is at GameSpot with a score of 7.0/10:
Despite its annoying foibles, the entire Overlord II package adds up to a fun game that is hampered by some real issues (in the same way that the game's sound is, for the most part, solid). If you can get past the wonky camera and are content to micromanage your minions, as well as the targeting system, then Overlord II is an ideal way to spend some of your spare time if you want to be a little evil. After all, you'd probably get arrested if you try to club a baby seal in real life.
The second is at GameSpy with a score of 4/5:
Unlike so many other sequels, Overlord II navigates the fine balance between completely reinventing the game and not adding enough features to make it feel like more than just a glorified expansion pack. Aside from the often-mediocre framerates and some painfully spaced checkpoints, I had a disturbing amount of fun terrorizing, killing, and/or enslaving all who stood in my way.
The third is at IGN with a score of 6.0/10:
Overlord II is a sequel that is neither bigger nor better than its predecessor. The size and scope have been dialed back to something that is more akin to a straight action game. And since none of the frustrating elements of the first have been fixed -- namely the camera, control, and save structure -- this game just isn't much fun. No amount of British wit could bring a smile to my face as I treaded through the tedium that is Overlord II.
The fourth is at GamesRadar with a score of 6/10:
So why such an average score then? Put simply, the shoddy programming annoyances that plagued the original Overlord return in triplicate here. Whether it's the terrible AI of your minions (a couple of which are always getting stuck or dying somewhere they shouldn't), the constant frame-rate and clipping issues or the infuriating pathfinding there's always some kind of mechanical problem to sour your fun. And it's such a shame, because under the manifold bugs lies a devilishly original and charming game. Maybe next time, eh?
The fifth is at GamingHeaven with a score of 86/100:
Overlord 2 is one of two great games I have reviewed this week and a refreshing change from the plethora of rubbish I have had to endure this year. The changes are all for the better and a lot of the little niggling issues which marred the original are fixed. If you own either a Playstation 3 or an Xbox 360 then I suggest you put this on your shortlist because it might be the refreshing change of pace you have been looking for. Miss this at your peril.
The sixth is at Digital Spy with a score of 4/5:
While its issues won't tarnish your evil schemes, they unfortunately push it away from being an essential, AAA title. Overlord II has enough excellent pacing and design to keep you constantly engaged with every pillage and plunder, and makes copious use of all the squirming, scheming minions at your disposal. Its narrative is awfully clever in its delivery, and makes every evil act feel like a breath of fresh air, and yet as normal as putting the kettle on. While a little unpolished, it's a solid adventure that's unique in execution, and you can't help but have a wicked time.
And the seventh is at Bit-tech with a score of 8/10:
The minion advancement system provides incentive to play tactically and carefully and gives you the satisfaction of a job well done when you manage to keep them all alive, kicking and mouthing off. If you don't normally play RTS games but want something deeper than the average FPS then Overlord II is well worth a look as it's a game that successfully blends action with a light smattering of strategy. It's also funny and engaging thanks to its perspective. Be warned though, if you do get into the habit of being an evil destructive, bossy ruler of the masses just make sure not to bring that side of yourself to work.
