The essence of Unreal has always been atmosphere, graphics and lighting.
Few people can forget the first time they saw the Sunspire in Unreal - when the graphics were new and exciting. Combined with the music this was one of the defining moments of my - then young - gaming career.
So how does Unreal 2 measure up?
Pretty well in my opinion.
Don't get me wrong. Unreal 2 is not a blockbuster. Not everything is done right.
But there are elements that are very well done and luckily those are exactly the elements you expect from an Unreal game.
1. Light
The light design in this game is outstanding. One of the best in any game in my opinion.
2. Levels
The levels and textures were breathtaking and still hold up well.
3. Variety
The game is centered around different planets. And different they are. This is an example of a classic-post 2000 shooter with good playing time and actual EFFORD put into the levels.
Not so good:
Story
Yeah. I mean I definitly bought into because of the atmosphere and graphics, but it is just not so good.
Music
The music is fine. But that's it. The music in Unreal 1 was genre defining.
At this point, you can buy this game and still enjoy it in an honest and unnostalgic way and I suggest you do that.
This is as classic an ego-shooter as you can still get with decent graphics.
Don't wait until it really is old.