Infamous 2 is an action-adventure game developed by Sucker Punch Productions and published by Sony Computer Entertainment. It was released exclusively for the PlayStation 3 in June 2011 and serves as a sequel to the original Infamous game. Players take on the role of Cole MacGrath, a supercharged protagonist with the ability to wield electricity. This guide will provide players with essential tips and tricks, character progression, side missions, and strategies to enhance your gameplay experience.
Getting Started: Understanding the Basics
Before diving deep into the world of Infamous 2, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the game's core mechanics and features.
Game Controls
Understanding the controls is crucial for efficient gameplay. Here’s a breakdown of the basic controls:
- Movement: Left Analog Stick
- Camera Control: Right Analog Stick
- Jump: X Button
- Use Powers: R1 Button
- Dodge: Circle Button
- Melee Attack: Square Button
- Power Selection: D-Pad
Character Progression
Cole MacGrath evolves throughout the game, gaining new abilities and powers. This progression is categorized into three main aspects:
1. Experience Points: Earned by completing missions, defeating enemies, and performing side activities.
2. Karma System: Decisions made during missions affect Cole’s moral alignment, impacting available powers and the game’s ending.
3. Upgrades: Players can enhance Cole's abilities by spending experience points on new powers or improving existing ones.
Exploring New Marais
New Marais is the vibrant and dangerous city where the entirety of Infamous 2 takes place. Each region of the city offers unique challenges, collectibles, and story missions.
Regions of New Marais
New Marais is divided into several distinct regions:
1. The Historic District: A culturally rich area filled with old buildings and historical landmarks.
2. The Swamp: A treacherous area with plenty of enemies lurking in the shadows.
3. The Neon District: A bustling area filled with bright lights and high energy.
Each region contains various side missions, challenges, and collectibles that enhance gameplay.
Collectibles
Collectibles are an important aspect of Infamous 2. Here are the main types:
- Dead Drops: Audio recordings scattered throughout the city that provide lore and backstory.
- Blast Shards: Collectibles that increase Cole's power capacity when gathered.
- Photo Opportunities: Locations where players can take pictures for bonus rewards.
Exploring the city thoroughly will reward players with experience points and valuable upgrades.
Combat Strategies
Combat in Infamous 2 is fast-paced and dynamic, requiring players to utilize Cole’s abilities effectively.
Understanding Powers
Cole has a variety of powers, including:
1. Electricity-Based Attacks: Ranged attacks that deal damage to multiple enemies.
2. Melee Attacks: Close-range attacks that can knock back enemies.
3. Defensive Abilities: Powers that allow Cole to evade attacks or shield himself.
Choosing the right powers for the situation is essential for success in combat.
Enemy Types
Understanding enemy types can help players develop effective strategies:
- Militia Soldiers: Basic enemies that can be dispatched with ranged or melee attacks.
- Conduits: Powerful enemies that utilize their own special abilities against Cole.
- Bosses: Unique and challenging foes that require specific strategies to defeat.
Each enemy type has strengths and weaknesses that can be exploited.
Karma System and Choices
The Karma System is a defining feature of Infamous 2. Players' choices affect the storyline, available powers, and how NPCs perceive Cole.
Karma Levels
There are two primary karma levels:
1. Good: Making altruistic choices grants Cole access to powerful light-based abilities.
2. Evil: Choosing selfish options unlocks dark powers that are more destructive.
Players can switch between good and evil karma, but choices have lasting consequences.
Key Decisions
Some key decisions throughout the game can have significant impacts on the story:
- Siding with Allies or Enemies: Choosing who to support can change mission outcomes.
- Saving or Sacrificing NPCs: Decisions made in critical moments affect karma and story progression.
It’s advisable to think carefully about choices, as they will shape the narrative and gameplay experience.
Side Missions and Activities
In addition to the main story, Infamous 2 offers a plethora of side missions and activities that provide valuable experience and enhance gameplay.
Types of Side Missions
1. Rescue Missions: Saving civilians from enemies can improve karma and earn rewards.
2. Stunt Challenges: Completing various stunts earns points and can lead to unlocking additional upgrades.
3. U. N. S. (Underground Network of Saboteurs): These missions involve sabotaging enemy operations and can be both entertaining and challenging.
Completing these missions allows players to experience the full breadth of what Infamous 2 has to offer.
Tips and Tricks for Success
To enhance your experience in Infamous 2, consider the following tips and strategies:
- Explore Thoroughly: Take the time to explore every corner of New Marais to discover collectibles and side missions.
- Upgrade Wisely: Focus on upgrades that complement your playstyle, whether it’s ranged attacks or melee combat.
- Balance Karma Choices: Try to maintain a balance between good and evil decisions to experience different aspects of the game.
- Experiment with Powers: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different powers in combat to find the most effective combinations.
Conclusion
Infamous 2 is a captivating open-world game that offers players the chance to shape their narrative through choices and actions. By understanding the mechanics, exploring the vibrant world of New Marais, and honing combat strategies, players can fully immerse themselves in Cole MacGrath’s electrifying journey. Whether you embrace the path of a hero or descend into darkness, this guide will aid you in navigating the thrilling adventures that await in Infamous 2. Enjoy your journey, and remember that every choice matters!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different play styles in Infamous 2?
In Infamous 2, players can choose between good and evil play styles, affecting the story, powers, and how NPCs react to the player. Good actions often involve saving civilians, while evil actions may include causing chaos.
How do I unlock new powers in Infamous 2?
New powers in Infamous 2 are unlocked by gaining experience points through completing missions, side quests, and defeating enemies. Players can also choose different powers based on their morality alignment.
What are the best strategies for defeating bosses in Infamous 2?
To defeat bosses in Infamous 2, players should learn their attack patterns, utilize environmental advantages, and switch between ranged and melee attacks. It's also essential to manage your energy levels and use your powers strategically.
Are there any collectibles in Infamous 2, and how can I find them?
Yes, Infamous 2 features various collectibles such as Dead Drops, Blast Shards, and Power Nodes. Players can use their map to track collectibles and should explore the city thoroughly, as many are hidden in hard-to-reach areas.
How does the morality system affect the game ending in Infamous 2?
The morality system in Infamous 2 significantly impacts the game's ending. Players who align with good morality will experience a heroic conclusion, while those who choose evil will face a darker, more chaotic ending.
Can I change my morality after choosing good or evil in Infamous 2?
While you cannot change your morality once you've made significant choices, you can shift your alignment by performing actions that align with good or evil. However, major story outcomes will remain tied to your initial decisions.
What tips can help me complete side missions efficiently in Infamous 2?
To complete side missions efficiently in Infamous 2, focus on leveling up your powers first, use fast travel between areas, and prioritize missions that offer valuable rewards. Pay attention to NPC dialogues for clues on mission objectives.
Is there a way to improve my combat skills in Infamous 2?
Improving combat skills in Infamous 2 involves practicing combos, utilizing environmental objects as weapons, and mastering the timing of dodges and counters. Experimenting with different powers also helps to develop a more versatile combat style.
