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Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus
Item: Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2017

GenresAdventure, Action, Shooter, Drama, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableOct 27, 2017

PlatformPC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperMachineGames

Overview

Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus is the eleventh installment of the Wolfenstein series and a sequel to the 2014's Wolfenstein: The New Order. The game follows the main protagonist, William Joseph "B.J." Blazkowicz, in his efforts to ignite a Second American Revolution. The game is played from a first-person perspective and most of its levels are navigated on foot. The story is arranged in chapters, which players complete in order to progress. A binary choice in the prologue alters the game's entire storyline; some characters and small plot points are replaced throughout the timelines. The game features a variety of weapons, most of which can be dual wielded. A cover system is also present.

Elsewhere

7.9

Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

96%

Mixed (50-79)

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 Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus are overwhelmingly positive. Many critics praise the game for its compelling and well-written narrative, with memorable cutscenes and emotive writing. AusGamers describes the campaign as lengthy and memorable, while Washington Post highlights the game's compelling story and emotive writing. NintendoWorldReport also commends the excellently written and performed story, with only a few exceptions. MMORPG.com mentions that the game's narrative covers serious moral questions and includes a gut-wrenching love story. Gaming Age further adds that the story and characters are rich and memorable. On the other hand, Gameblog.fr presents a slightly different perspective, describing the game's story as delirious and turned into a parody. However, this seems to be an outlier opinion among the critics analyzed. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the story of Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus is a powerful and impactful one. Game Informer describes it as a tale of revolution and adventure, with heartbreak and wild, weird moments in equal measure. GameStar praises the personal and intimate nature of the story, as well as its emotional rollercoaster. IGN, in multiple opinions, praises the emotional context, complex characters, and wild twists and turns of the narrative. The story is also commended for tackling weighty and taboo subjects head-on, with standout scenes and a wonderful cast of characters, as mentioned by IBTimes UK. Although there are a few critics who mention some negatives, such as Game Debate describing the story as ridiculous but entertaining, and GameGrin expressing a desire for more story through gameplay, these opinions are in the minority. The majority of the critics find the story of Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus to be very good, with many praising its emotional impact, thought-provoking themes, and memorable characters. In conclusion, the story of Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus is widely praised by the critics. It is commended for its compelling narrative, well-written dialogue, and memorable moments. The game successfully tackles serious issues such as racism and subjugation while incorporating elements of humor and zaniness. The majority of the critics agree that the story is a standout aspect of the game, making it a must-play for those looking for a mature, daring, and unique campaign experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics overwhelmingly praise Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus for its compelling narrative, emotional impact, and memorable characters. The game's well-written story tackles serious themes with a mix of heartbreak and humor, making it a standout experience for players seeking a mature and daring campaign. Despite a few dissenting voices, the consensus is clear: this game delivers a powerful and impactful storytelling experience.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

87%

Mixed (50-79)

13%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of the critics praised the gameplay of Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus, considering it to be very good. One of the standout aspects mentioned by multiple reviewers is the variety of playstyles the game offers. NintendoWorldReport commends the game for providing the option for both stealth and aggression, allowing players to choose their preferred approach. This flexibility in gameplay is further supported by GameSpot, who highlights the different approaches to combat and the ability to pursue various strategies through weapon upgrades and unlockable perks. The gameplay is also described as intense and satisfying, with Game Informer praising its intensity and lack of frustration with the control scheme. The shooting mechanics are particularly lauded by App Trigger, who describes them as stellar, fluidly animated, and satisfying. However, there are some criticisms regarding the gameplay of Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus. Gameblog.fr mentions that while the gameplay is described as brutal and satisfying, the game's labyrinthine levels can be limiting. IBTimes UK points out that the game's difficulty and archaic health system can be problematic, with a lack of feedback when players are being shot. Some critics, such as GameStar, mention occasional issues with jumping over obstacles, which can disrupt the flow of the gameplay. Additionally, COGconnected notes that there are some technical issues with sound and performance drops in handheld mode, which can affect the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the gameplay of Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus is highly enjoyable and well-tuned. The game offers a variety of playstyles, allowing players to choose between stealth and aggression, and provides a rewarding perk system and customizable combat. The intense and satisfying shooting mechanics, along with the option for weapon upgrades and unlockable perks, add depth to the gameplay experience. While there are some minor issues and limitations, the majority of the critics agree that the gameplay of Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus is a standout feature of the game.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics praise Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus gameplay for its variety, offering both stealth and aggression options. The game's flexibility in combat styles, weapon upgrades, and perks is highlighted, with intense and satisfying shooting mechanics. However, criticisms include labyrinthine levels, difficulty, health system, and occasional technical issues. Overall, critics find the gameplay highly enjoyable and well-tuned, with minor issues but a standout feature in the game.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

34%

Mixed (50-79)

66%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus are quite varied. Many critics praised the game for its impressive visual effects and graphics. AusGamers commends the intact effects and impressive visual effects on PC/console versions. Washington Post and PlayStation Country also mention the game's impressive graphics and visual design. Game Informer describes the graphics as fantastic-looking, with vivid and chilling portrayals of a country under fascism. GameStar appreciates the atmospheric details like propaganda posters and newspaper articles that enhance the oppressive atmosphere of the occupied scenario. These positive opinions highlight the game's ability to create a visually immersive experience. However, there are also several critics who had negative opinions about the graphics and visual design of the game. NintendoWorldReport mentions that the game has a capped frame rate and variable resolution, while Gaming Age states that the textures are not as sharp and the game sometimes looks like an old 360 title on the Switch. Gameblog.fr describes the graphics as blurry and reminiscent of the PS2 era, with lacking textures and buggy shadows. CGMagazine criticizes the loss of technical and visual detail, blurry environments, and difficulty in reading subtitles on the Switch. Pocket Gamer UK mentions that the visual fidelity has been stripped back to an extreme degree, resulting in muddy visuals and difficulty in making out details at medium to long distances. Overall, the consensus among the critics is mixed. While there are positive opinions about the impressive visual effects, atmospheric details, and chilling portrayals, there are also negative opinions about the graphics on the Switch, including blurry visuals, muddy textures, and reduced visual fidelity. Critics like GameSpot and ZTGD mention performance issues and reduced resolution in handheld mode. However, it is worth noting that some critics, like Trusted Reviews and Impulsegamer, mention that the game's availability in handheld form on the Switch compensates for the graphical shortcomings. Despite the mixed opinions, it is evident that the game's visual design and graphics have both strengths and weaknesses, with some critics appreciating the immersive details and effects, while others criticize the graphical limitations on certain platforms.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics have mixed opinions on the graphics of Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus. Positive feedback praises impressive visual effects and chilling portrayals, while negative feedback criticizes blurry visuals and muddy textures on the Switch. Some critics note performance issues and reduced resolution, but others appreciate the game's availability in handheld form. Overall, the game's visual design has strengths like immersive details, but also weaknesses like graphical limitations on certain platforms.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

88%

Mixed (50-79)

13%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of the critics praised the sound design and music of Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus, with many highlighting its positive aspects. COGconnected mentioned the presence of HD rumble as a redeeming factor, which helps offset the recurring audio issues with some guns being silent when they shouldn't be. PlayStation Country also commended the sound design, specifically mentioning the great weapon effects and music. Impulsegamer further supported this sentiment, stating that the game has excellent audio, including sound effects, music, and professional voice acting that helps immerse the player into the title. GameStar added that the game features good music that adds to the engaging story and setting, with outstanding German voice acting that contributes to the overall experience. Stevivor praised the music for cementing the sense of urgency and general bad-assery found in gameplay, while also highlighting the impressive voice acting that conveys pride and hope in the performances of the characters. GameGrin mentioned standout tracks worth listening to, and App Trigger specifically praised Mick Gordon's soundtrack for its high energy tones that enhance the action-packed gameplay. While the overall consensus of the critics leans towards positive feedback, there were a few minor negatives mentioned. COGconnected pointed out the recurring audio issues with the guns, which can be a distraction during gameplay. However, this issue seems to be overshadowed by the positive aspects of the sound design and music. No other major negatives were mentioned by the critics, indicating that the overall quality of the sound design and music in Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus was highly regarded. In conclusion, the sound design and music of Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the critics. The majority of the reviewers praised the game's sound effects, music, and voice acting, with specific mentions of the great weapon effects, immersive audio, outstanding German voice acting, and high energy tones of the soundtrack. While there were some minor audio issues mentioned, they were not significant enough to detract from the overall positive consensus. Overall, the sound design and music of Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus were highly regarded and contributed to the immersive and engaging experience of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics raved about the sound design and music in Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus, praising its HD rumble, weapon effects, music, and voice acting. While some minor audio issues were noted, they didn't overshadow the overall positive feedback. The game's audio elements were deemed immersive, engaging, and added to the sense of urgency and badassery. Mick Gordon's high-energy soundtrack was particularly highlighted. Overall, the sound design and music were highly regarded, enhancing the gameplay experience.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

93%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the majority of critics. Many reviewers praised the performances for adding depth and immersion to the game. The Washington Post described the voice acting as adept and contributing to the development of the characters. MMORPG.com also commended the game for its great acting, while GameCritics highlighted the strong performances from the central cast. DarkZero specifically mentioned the memorable portrayal of the main villain, General Engel, as a standout performance. Impulsegamer praised Brian Bloom's voice acting for helping to immerse players into the game. GameStar even went as far as to say that the German voice acting was exceptional and enhanced the overall portrayal of the characters and setting. Despite the overwhelmingly positive sentiment, there were a few critics who had some minor criticisms. NintendoWorldReport mentioned that while the voice acting was generally strong, the main character was the weakest in the cast. However, this was a relatively minor issue compared to the overall positive reception of the voice acting. App Trigger also noted that the voice acting and dialogue executed almost perfectly, indicating a near-flawless performance. In conclusion, the voice acting in Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus has received high praise from the majority of critics. The performances were described as top-notch, outstanding, and convincing, with well-written characters. The voice acting added depth and immersion to the game, helping to bring the cast of characters to life. The German voice acting was particularly exceptional, enhancing the overall portrayal of the characters and setting. While there were a few minor criticisms, they were overshadowed by the overwhelmingly positive consensus of the critics. Overall, the voice acting in Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus can be considered a major strength of the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics unanimously praise the voice acting in Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus for its top-notch performances that add depth and immersion to the game. The German voice acting is exceptional, with standout portrayals like General Engel. While some critics had minor issues, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, making the voice acting a major strength of the game.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

35%

Mixed (50-79)

61%

Negative (0-49)

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

In terms of the technical performance on the Nintendo Switch, there are mixed opinions among the critics. Some reviewers, such as Game Informer and Wccftech, praise the game for its solid performance, with no noticeable frame rate drops or slowdowns. They highlight the importance of stability, especially during intense action sequences. Additionally, Gameblog.fr considers the Switch port successful, mentioning occasional drops in frame rate but noting that the blurriness helps mask some of the graphical flaws. Vooks also commends the game as a technical feat on the Switch, although sacrifices were made in terms of lower resolution and graphical quality to accommodate the portable platform. However, there are several critics who point out the technical limitations and issues on the Switch. NintendoWorldReport and Gaming Age mention hitches in performance, particularly on the Switch. Gaming Age adds that while the performance is better when docked, it still falls short compared to other consoles. GameSpot notes that the game runs well in docked mode but encounters performance issues and inconsistent frame rates in handheld mode. CGMagazine highlights noticeable technical compromises on the Switch, such as blurry graphics, difficulty in reading subtitles, and slow texture loading. Pocket Gamer UK also mentions significantly reduced visual fidelity, making the handheld experience unplayable at times. Overall, the consensus among the critics regarding the technical performance on the Nintendo Switch is mixed. While some reviewers appreciate the game's solid performance and consider it a technical feat on the portable platform, others highlight the technical limitations and compromises that were made. The occasional drops in frame rate, hitches in performance, and reduced visual fidelity are some of the drawbacks mentioned. However, it is worth noting that some critics, such as Trusted Reviews and Digital Chumps, mention that these technical downgrades do not significantly affect the overall experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics have mixed opinions on the technical performance of the game on the Nintendo Switch. Some praise its solid performance with no frame rate drops, while others point out issues like blurry graphics and inconsistent frame rates. Overall, the consensus is divided, with some appreciating the technical feat on the portable platform and others highlighting limitations and compromises.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

44%

Mixed (50-79)

56%

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 Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus are varied, with some praising the game's ability to offer multiple playthroughs and engaging structure. AusGamers describes the game as "fun, fresh, and exciting even on a second play-through," highlighting the enjoyment that can be found in revisiting the game. COGconnected also commends the game for its narrative differences and additional assassination missions, which encourage multiple playthroughs. DarkZero mentions that the initial choices in the game affect the story as a whole, making replayability high. These positive opinions suggest that Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus offers a compelling and enjoyable experience that can be revisited multiple times. However, there are also critics who express a more negative view of the game's replay value. MMORPG.com states that the game is not very replayable, without providing further details or explanation. This suggests that the game may lack elements or features that would entice players to replay it. App Trigger mentions that while the game rewards exploration and offers different difficulty levels, the reviewer wishes the game was longer. This indicates that despite some replayability elements, the overall length of the game may not be sufficient to fully satisfy players seeking replay value. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus offers some degree of replay value. The game's engaging structure, customization options, and narrative differences are praised by GameCritics and COGconnected. Additionally, the post-game content, ability to make different choices, and the presence of side missions and activities are highlighted by several critics, including Vooks and PlayStation Country. These elements contribute to the overall replayability of the game. However, there are also critics, such as MMORPG.com, who feel that the game lacks replay value. While there are differing opinions, the majority of critics acknowledge the game's ability to offer multiple playthroughs and enjoyable interactions, indicating that Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus has a decent level of replay value.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics are divided on the replay value of Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus. Some praise its engaging structure and narrative differences, while others feel it lacks elements to entice replay. Overall, the game offers some replayability with customization options, post-game content, and different choices, but opinions vary on its lasting appeal.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

87%

Mixed (50-79)

12%

Negative (0-49)

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

Overall, the critics' opinions regarding the Overall Verdict of Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus are largely positive. The game is praised for its compelling story, well-tuned gameplay, impressive graphics, and enjoyable interactions between characters. Critics such as Washington Post and Game Informer highlight the game as the best first-person shooter of the year and an incredible, must-play game for anyone who loves zany action and powerful stories. The game is also commended for its technical achievement on the Nintendo Switch, with Gameblog.fr and We Got This Covered noting that it offers a true AAA experience on a portable console. However, there are some negatives mentioned by the critics. One common criticism is the graphical limitations and visual downgrade on the Switch version, as mentioned by Vooks and Pocket Gamer UK. The Switch version is considered the least visually appealing, and it is recommended to be played on other consoles or a gaming PC if possible. Additionally, the Switch version has performance issues in handheld mode, as noted by GameSpot. Some critics, like MMORPG.com and ZTGD, mention that the game lacks replayability, which may affect its long-term appeal for some players. Despite these negatives, the overall consensus among the critics is that Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus is a highly enjoyable and worthwhile game. The majority of the critics thought that the overall verdict of the game was very good. The game is praised for its strong story, intense gameplay, and impressive audiovisual design. Critics such as DarkZero and PlayStation Country highlight the high replayability and fun factor of the game. The exceptional storytelling and unforgettable moments are also mentioned positively by IBTimes UK and PlayStation LifeStyle. The game's status as one of the best shooters of this generation is emphasized by App Trigger. Overall, the positive aspects of the game, including its compelling narrative, well-designed gameplay, and technical performance, outweigh the negatives, making it a highly recommended experience for fans of the genre.

TL;DR

Critics love Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus for its gripping story, solid gameplay, and stunning visuals, calling it a must-play FPS with zany action. While the Switch version faces graphical and performance issues, the game's overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting its strong narrative, intense gameplay, and high replay value. Despite some flaws, it's hailed as one of the best shooters of this generation, offering a truly enjoyable experience for genre fans.

CRITIK

Reviews

190 reviews found

PlayStation LifeStyle

PlayStation 4

Oct 26, 2017

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

The reviewer had high expectations for Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus and the game managed to exceed them in every way. It is described as one of the most ridiculous video games ever made, with an incredible amount of heart.

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IGN

Xbox One

Oct 27, 2017

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

Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus is highly praised for its story, gameplay, characters, and technical performance, with some minor issues in graphics and jumping mechanics.

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App Trigger

PlayStation 4

Oct 26, 2017

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

Wolfenstein II is easily one of the best shooters of this generation, and the reviewer has no doubt that MachineGames will perfect the formula the third time around.

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GameGrin

Nov 21, 2017

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

Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus is an overall outstanding game that mixes social commentary with unnecessary violence and a tongue-in-cheek attitude. It has a few rough edges, but is highly recommended for FPS fans.

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MMORPG.com

Oct 26, 2017

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

The game is a pitch-perfect action experience with a great story and acting, but it is not very replayable.

Washington Post

Dec 7, 2017

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

Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus is the best first-person shooter of the year with a compelling story, well-tuned gameplay, impressive graphics, and enjoyable interactions between characters.

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GameCritics

Nintendo Switch

Jul 16, 2018

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

High water mark for AAA stories with bombast and blood

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PlayStation Country

PlayStation 4

Nov 1, 2017

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

Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus is a great game with excellent gunplay and a well-told story, despite being infested with collectibles.

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DarkZero

Nov 9, 2017

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

Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus is a fast-paced, unforgiving, and fun FPS game that offers a nice break from the norm. The focus on single player pays off and the replayability is high.

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GameStar

Oct 26, 2017

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

Based on the review, Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus seems to be a highly engaging and emotional shooter with a strong story, intense gameplay, and impressive visual and audio design. The German voice acting is particularly outstanding. The game is likely to be highly recommended.

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