Manhunt 2's gameplay doesn't quite match its presentation. Limited camera control, occasionally shoddy stealth mechanics, and A.I. that sometimes sniffs you out when it seems they shouldn't and vice versa will break the otherwise excellent immersion from time to time. A few frustrating levels will also keep you searching over and over for an unclear objective.

I did like the fact that you could play Manhunt 2 as a more action-oriented shooter once guns become available--you'll be limited to crow bars, hypodermic needles, glass shards etc. for the first few chapters. This option may not be intentional and could actually be the result of poor balancing on the developer's part, but it provides some welcome variety to the sneak-heavy gameplay, although seasoned stealth gamers may not agree.

Based on the pre-release buzz and controversy, I expected Manhunt 2 to be mostly a shock-fest, watered-down by censorship. So, when its creative levels and creepy narrative grabbed me more than the cheap-thrill kills, I was pleasantly surprised.

Enter this title with an open mind, like you would any other game not saddled with this type of media attention, and you could have a similar experience. The gameplay isn't perfect and the gore might be a bit much for sensitive-stomached gamers, but the story, bite-sized chapters perfect for portable play, and the overall presentation makes this one of the year's best PSP offerings.

By Matt Cabral
CCC Freelance Writer

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