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CRITIK

Warhammer: Vermintide 2

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Warhammer: Vermintide 2
Item: Warhammer: Vermintide 2
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2018

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Shooter, RPG, Single Player, Multiplayer, First Person Perspective

AvailableMar 8, 2018

PlatformPC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

DeveloperFatshark AB, Fatshark

Overview

Warhammer: Vermintide 2 is the sequel to the critically acclaimed Vermintide. It's time for players to return to the memorable first-person co-op experience with intense world class melee action.

Elsewhere

7.5

Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

14%

Mixed (50-79)

86%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions of the critics regarding the story of Warhammer: Vermintide 2 are varied, with some positive and negative aspects highlighted. AusGamers praises the game for its effective use of banter between characters to convey the urgency of the situation, along with the well-utilized world torn apart by war. Xbox Tavern also appreciates the game's loose level-to-level story structure with a nice overarching plot. These positive opinions suggest that the game successfully creates a compelling narrative experience. On the other hand, critics like DarkStation and Digitally Downloaded express negative views towards the story. DarkStation considers the story to be largely an afterthought, adding little for those unfamiliar with the Warhammer universe. Digitally Downloaded mentions that the game lacks a comprehensive narrative, although the fantastical gore provides entertainment. These criticisms suggest that the story may not be engaging or accessible enough for some players. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Warhammer: Vermintide 2 has a story that varies in its effectiveness. While some critics appreciate the game's use of banter and the overarching plot, others find the story to be minimal or lacking in depth. The positive opinions highlight the game's potential for creating a compelling narrative experience, but the negative opinions indicate that the story may not be a strong focus or may not resonate with all players. It is worth noting that the game's setting in the Warhammer fantasy universe and the inclusion of various enemy factions, such as the Skaven and Chaos forces, are generally acknowledged as positive aspects that contribute to the overall experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics have mixed opinions on Warhammer: Vermintide 2's story. Some praise its banter and world-building, while others find it lacking and insignificant. Positive reviews focus on the game's immersive narrative potential, but negative reviews criticize its lack of depth. The game's setting and enemy factions are generally well-received.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

100%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The opinions of the critics regarding the gameplay of Warhammer: Vermintide 2 are overwhelmingly positive. Many critics praised the gameplay for its similarities to the successful formula of Left 4 Dead, which has been refined and improved in this sequel. Critics like PlaySense and Gamer.nl specifically mentioned the cooperative gameplay and the waves of monsters that require teamwork to defeat, reminiscent of the gameplay in Left 4 Dead. The combat mechanics in Warhammer: Vermintide 2 were also highly praised by multiple critics. PlayStation Universe, DarkStation, and Game Informer all highlighted the improved combat mechanics, including weighty and satisfying core combat, a variety of weapons and attacks, and the ability to dodge, parry, and counter-attack. The combat was described as intense, enjoyable, and varied, with a focus on melee combat. The addition of new career paths, skill trees, and talent trees added variety and replayability to the gameplay experience. While the majority of critics had positive opinions about the gameplay, there were a few minor negatives mentioned. Shacknews mentioned occasional technical slips and higher difficulty levels that can be challenging. Softpedia mentioned a steep learning curve and the long-range weapon being less effective. GameWatcher also noted that ranged weaponry had less developed feedback and scarce ammunition. However, these negatives were overshadowed by the positive aspects of the gameplay. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the gameplay of Warhammer: Vermintide 2 is highly enjoyable, solid, and satisfying. The game successfully captures the essence of Left 4 Dead while adding RPG elements, cooperative levels, and varied challenges. The combat is described as ferocious, intense, and relentless, requiring strategic thinking and teamwork. The variety of enemies, well-designed levels, and customization options were also praised by multiple critics. The gameplay loop, although remaining similar throughout the game, was seen as engaging and thrilling. The positive opinions of critics like GameCrate, GameSpew, and We Got This Covered further support the overall consensus that the gameplay of Warhammer: Vermintide 2 is a success and a significant upgrade over its predecessor.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics rave about Warhammer: Vermintide 2's gameplay, likening it to Left 4 Dead but with improved combat mechanics, intense cooperative play, and a variety of weapons and attacks. While some critics mention minor issues like technical glitches and challenging difficulty levels, the overwhelming consensus is that the gameplay is highly enjoyable, capturing the essence of its predecessor while adding RPG elements and customization options. Overall, the game is praised for its ferocious combat, strategic challenges, and engaging gameplay loop.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

65%

Mixed (50-79)

35%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The majority of the critics praised the graphics and visual design of Warhammer: Vermintide 2, considering them to be very good. They commended the game for its stunning visuals, attention to detail, and impressive art direction. AusGamers specifically mentioned that the game is technically impressive, full of detail, lore, and intricate design. They also highlighted the stunning sights and improved level-flow and logic. PlayStation Universe described the graphics as visually impressive, with superb lighting and shadowing effects. They found the game to be visually appealing and praised the level design for its unpredictability and freshness, despite its linearity. Metro GameCentral also mentioned the excellent graphics and praised the level design, stating that the 13 maps remain fresh and unpredictable. They also appreciated the game's varied layout and beautifully realized battlegrounds. TheXboxHub and XboxAddict both emphasized the stunning visuals, incredible detail in enemies, scenery, and characters, and the high quality of the environments. CGMagazine praised the gorgeous levels, mentioning specific locations like claustrophobic city streets, underground dwarven karak, snowy fields, and dense forests. However, there were some criticisms regarding the graphics and visual design of Warhammer: Vermintide 2. PlaySense mentioned that while the visuals were not considered ugly, they could have been better. They pointed out the use of an outdated engine and framerate dips on the PS4 Pro as drawbacks. DarkStation mentioned that while the environments were visually distinct, the levels lacked differing pathways. God is a Geek also mentioned occasional visual bugs and glitches, which affected the overall experience. Xbox Tavern and IGN Spain both noted occasional environmental glitches. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the graphics and visual design of Warhammer: Vermintide 2 are very good. The majority of the critics praised the game for its stunning visuals, attention to detail, and impressive art direction. They appreciated the level design, which offered varied layouts and beautifully realized battlegrounds. The detailed environments and diverse character models were also highly regarded. While there were some criticisms regarding occasional visual bugs, glitches, and environmental issues, these were not significant enough to overshadow the overall positive sentiment towards the game's graphics and visual design.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics love Warhammer: Vermintide 2's stunning graphics and visual design, praising its attention to detail and impressive art direction. Despite some minor criticisms like occasional glitches and outdated engine issues, the majority agree that the game's visuals are top-notch with beautifully realized battlegrounds and varied layouts.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

79%

Mixed (50-79)

21%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

In analyzing the opinions of the critics regarding the Sound Design and Music of Warhammer: Vermintide 2, it is evident that there is a general consensus on the positive aspects of these elements. The soundtrack of the game receives praise from multiple critics, such as PlayStation Universe, TheXboxHub, and XboxAddict, who highlight its thundering composition, fantastic quality, and its ability to stick in the player's head. Additionally, the banter between characters and the voice acting, as mentioned by DarkStation, Xbox Tavern, and XBLA Fans, are also commended for enhancing the overall experience. On the negative side, IGN Spain points out that while the sound design is good, the Spanish translation falls short. Softpedia, on the other hand, does not provide specific details about the sound design, focusing solely on the composer's previous work. It is worth noting that Gamer.nl solely mentions the satisfying sound effects and character banter, without mentioning the music, which may suggest a lack of emphasis on this aspect. Overall, the critics' opinions indicate a positive reception towards the Sound Design and Music of Warhammer: Vermintide 2. The thundering composition, quality voice acting, and engaging banter contribute to the immersive experience praised by Metro GameCentral, GameSpew, and XboxAddict. The sound design, including the use of cues and satisfying sound effects, is also commended by multiple critics, such as GameStar and GameWatcher. While there are some minor criticisms, such as the Spanish translation mentioned by IGN Spain, the general consensus is that the sound design and music successfully enhance the tension, atmosphere, and overall enjoyment of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics unanimously praise Warhammer: Vermintide 2's epic soundtrack, quality voice acting, and immersive sound design, with only minor criticisms like the Spanish translation. Overall, the game's thundering composition and engaging banter create a top-notch audio experience that enhances gameplay and atmosphere.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

36%

Mixed (50-79)

64%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Warhammer: Vermintide 2 has received generally positive reviews from critics. Many critics, such as DarkStation and XboxAddict, praised the voice acting for adding to the overall experience of the game. They noted that the banter and discussions between the characters stayed true to their core personalities, making them more engaging and likable. Xbox Tavern and Game Informer also highlighted the well-defined personalities of the characters and their amusing exchanges, further emphasizing the positive impact of the voice acting. GameStar and GameWatcher specifically mentioned the immersive nature of the voice acting, while Gamer.nl appreciated the addition of banter between the heroes. However, there were a few criticisms regarding the voice acting in Warhammer: Vermintide 2. Digitally Downloaded mentioned that the party dialogues could become repetitive, which may have slightly diminished the overall impact of the voice acting. Worth Playing also noted that it was sometimes difficult to discern which hero the voices were coming from, which could be a minor inconvenience for players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Warhammer: Vermintide 2 is well done and adds to the enjoyment of the game. The positive aspects of the voice acting, such as the well-defined personalities, engaging banter, and immersive nature, were highlighted by multiple critics. While there were a few minor criticisms, such as repetitive dialogues and difficulty in identifying specific characters, these did not significantly detract from the overall positive reception of the voice acting.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics praise Warhammer: Vermintide 2's voice acting for enhancing the game experience with engaging banter and well-defined characters. While some found dialogues repetitive and identifying voices challenging, overall consensus is positive for the immersive and enjoyable voice acting.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

40%

Mixed (50-79)

53%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of the technical performance on different gaming platforms, Warhammer: Vermintide 2 receives mixed reviews. On the positive side, the Xbox One version seems to have fewer issues affecting gameplay. Gameblog.fr states that there are no issues affecting gameplay, except for some subtitle problems. Additionally, Xbox Tavern mentions occasional bugs and environmental glitches, suggesting that the overall technical performance on Xbox One is relatively stable. On the PC platform, Softpedia describes the game as well optimized and working flawlessly on an older system, while GameWatcher and IGN Spain mention that the game runs well without noticeable bugs. These positive reviews indicate that the game performs well on both Xbox One and PC, with fewer technical issues. However, there are also negative aspects to consider. PlaySense mentions framerate dips on the PS4 Pro during busy moments, indicating technical performance issues on the PlayStation platform. God is a Geek and Metro GameCentral both mention occasional performance issues and long loading times on Xbox One. Shacknews points out occasional technical slips and a game-breaking bug on PC where an enemy got stuck on a bridge. PC PowerPlay also mentions connection issues and bugs affecting the overall stability and experience on PC. These negative reviews highlight the presence of technical issues across different platforms, including framerate dips, performance issues, long loading times, and bugs. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Warhammer: Vermintide 2 has some technical performance issues across all gaming platforms. While there are positive reviews mentioning stable performance on Xbox One and PC, there are also negative reviews highlighting various technical issues on all platforms. The game's performance on Xbox One seems to be relatively better, with fewer issues affecting gameplay, while the PC version receives mixed reviews, with some critics mentioning stable performance and others pointing out connection issues and bugs. It is important for players to consider these technical aspects before deciding on which platform to play the game.

TL;DR

technical performance

Warhammer: Vermintide 2 gets mixed reviews on technical performance across gaming platforms. Xbox One has fewer issues, while PC is well-optimized with occasional bugs. PS4 Pro shows framerate dips, Xbox One has performance issues. Overall, the game has technical problems on all platforms, so choose wisely before playing.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

72%

Mixed (50-79)

28%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of Warhammer: Vermintide 2 are overwhelmingly positive. Many critics highlight the various aspects of the game that contribute to its high replayability. PlayStation Universe praises the improved loot system, achievements, and class progression as factors that enhance the replay value. AusGamers mentions the multiple difficulties, secret items, and large community that offer replay value, along with the crafting system and loot rewards that encourage experimentation with different weapon combos. Metro GameCentral emphasizes the highly replayable levels and the AI director that ensures each match is different. They also mention the loot box system tied to obtaining new and more powerful weapons. These positive aspects mentioned by the critics contribute to the overall positive sentiment towards the replay value of Warhammer: Vermintide 2. However, there are a few critics who mention some negatives regarding the replay value. DarkStation notes that while the Heroic Deeds System adds modifiers to existing missions, exploration quickly stops being rewarding. GameWatcher mentions balance issues and an unsatisfying loot system that make the game less fun to replay for extended periods. Despite these criticisms, they are in the minority and do not significantly impact the overall positive consensus. In conclusion, the majority of the critics agree that Warhammer: Vermintide 2 offers excellent replay value. The game's various features such as improved loot system, achievements, class progression, multiple difficulties, secret items, and large community contribute to its high replayability. The positive sentiment is further reinforced by critics like Game Informer, GameCrate, and GameSpew, who highlight the satisfaction of risk and reward, dynamic enemy spawning, and character development and loot as reasons to replay the game. The few negative opinions mentioned by DarkStation and GameWatcher do not detract from the overall consensus of the critics, who overwhelmingly praise the game's replay value.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics rave about the replay value of Warhammer: Vermintide 2, praising features like improved loot, class progression, and dynamic gameplay. Despite some minor criticisms about balance issues and exploration, the majority agree that the game offers excellent replayability.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

89%

Mixed (50-79)

11%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

In analyzing the opinions of multiple reviewers regarding the overall verdict of Warhammer: Vermintide 2, it becomes evident that the majority of critics found the game to be highly enjoyable and a significant improvement over its predecessor. The positive aspects of the game that were frequently mentioned include its extensive content, improved combat mechanics, and satisfying co-op gameplay. Critics such as PlayStation Universe, Game Informer, and GameCrate praised the game for its intense combat, challenging difficulty, and strong sense of progression and customization. The game's visuals and level design were also commended by reviewers such as Destructoid and GameStar. However, there were some negative aspects that critics pointed out. One common criticism was the use of an outdated engine, as mentioned by PlaySense. This led to some technical issues, connection problems, and graphical bugs, as noted by Metro GameCentral and PC PowerPlay. The difficulty spikes and unbalanced gameplay were also mentioned by GameWatcher as potential issues that could detract from the overall fun of the game. Additionally, some critics, such as Gamer.nl and IGN Italia, felt that the integration of gameplay and storytelling could have been better, and the balance between classes was criticized. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Warhammer: Vermintide 2 is a highly recommended game that offers an enjoyable and rewarding co-op experience. The game's improvements over its predecessor, including its intense combat, varied enemies, and robust progression system, were widely praised. Reviewers such as AusGamers and GameSpew considered it on par with other acclaimed co-op games like Left 4 Dead. The game's ability to capture the Warhammer Fantasy universe and provide a variety of environments and enemies was also acknowledged by Gamer.nl. Despite some minor drawbacks, the majority of critics found Warhammer: Vermintide 2 to be a standout title in the co-op action genre, with its positive aspects outweighing the negatives.

TL;DR

Critics overwhelmingly praise Warhammer: Vermintide 2 for its improved combat mechanics, extensive content, and satisfying co-op gameplay. Positive aspects like intense combat, challenging difficulty, and strong progression were highlighted, although some critics noted issues like an outdated engine causing technical problems and unbalanced gameplay. Despite minor drawbacks, the game is highly recommended for its enjoyable co-op experience, varied enemies, and robust progression system, earning comparisons to acclaimed co-op games like Left 4 Dead.

CRITIK

Reviews

107 reviews found

100

XBLA Fans

Xbox One

Jul 27, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Vermintide 2 is simply outstanding, with little left to desire and few negatives. It is easily worth your time and money to play.

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PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 4

Dec 28, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that Warhammer: Vermintide 2 is a huge improvement over its predecessor and one of the best cooperative multiplayer games available on PS4.

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GameGrin

Apr 9, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game has improved on every aspect of its predecessor and offers a variety of tools, characters, and enemies. The difficulty spikes can be frustrating, but the game is fun and rewarding.

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AusGamers

Xbox One

Jul 24, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Warhammer: Vermintide II is a must for fans of co-op and offers a deep and rewarding RPG-lite customization system. It is on par with Left 4 Dead in terms of quality and inspiration.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox One

Aug 9, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is highly praised and improves on its predecessor in almost every way.

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GameSpew

Apr 19, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that Warhammer: Vermintide 2 is a formidable co-op package and essential for co-op gaming enthusiasts.

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Worth Playing

Mar 30, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is highly praised and given a score of 9.0/10.

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We Got This Covered

Mar 12, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is described as the best first person melee combat ever done and shines in ways that have yet to be explored by others in its genre. It is praised for its violence and variety of classes and loot.

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Digitally Downloaded

Mar 19, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Vermintide II is fundamentally enjoyable with its intense combat and unpredictable gameplay loop.

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Xbox Tavern

Xbox One

Jul 16, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Warhammer: Vermintide 2 is a step up from its predecessor and is a must-have for fans of the first game.

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