App review: Assassin’s Creed 2 for mobile

Not content with racing on the heels of major movie and game licenses, Gameloft are now beating them. At the time of writing, the console versions of Assassin’s Creed 2 had yet to hit the shelves, but this is certainly a tempting appetiser.

You’re cast as the vengeful Ezio, taking on 9 acts of revenge in Renaissance Italy. Admittedly, the convincing open plan cities found on the console versions are gone here however, the cities of Venice, Florence and Forli are still recognisably different.

Most of AC2’s levels take the form of a scrolling platform game and with ample interaction with the environment, for instance the ability to melt into the shadows or swing from overhead objects, it draws you into the action at every turn.

Naturally, it’s the kills that benefit from the best production values. Perfect kills are rewarded with a close-up perspective and loving slow motion for the finishes. Also satisfying are the silent kills that have you hanging off ledges or deep hidden in haycarts to strike at the perfect moment.

But between the kills there’s plenty standard platform puzzling and scrolling combat action. Pressing * will switch between weapons, including the useful boomerang for flicking switches) and the spears for vaulting over smaller obstacles.

If there’s a problem with AC2 it’s that every mission following the same basic structure of preparation, kill and escape. But then, as if in some kind of hysterical overreaction, the screen flips sideways as you’re put at the helm of one of Leonardo’s flying machines. These mini-games are fun to play, but have nothing to do with the main game and arguably ruin the atmosphere.

Nonetheless, the set pieces are hugely impressive and the graphics up to Gameloft’s usual high standards. It also makes an effective appetiser before the bigger versions.

Web: www.gameloft.co.uk
Price: £3

Verdict: 7/10

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