Neon lights, thumping beats, and loads of blood; Hotline Miami slashed itself into the heart of gamers back in 2012, and admittedly has become one of my all time favorite titles. More of a video game than most releases as of late, the straightforward, hard-as-nails gameplay made gamers scream with frustration and joy. The second installment, Hotline Miami 2: Wrong Number hits later this month, and I’m already sporting my Members Only jacket in preparation.
Returning to the blood-soaked underbelly of 1980s Miami, the sequel adds to the surreal and dark storyline. Hopefully explaining some of the unanswered questions from the first game, Hotline Miami 2: Wrong Number promises to expand on the story of the original. The cryptic way the original told its story has left players theorizing and trying to fill in the blanks. Hopefully with the second entry, some of the questions will finally be answered.
Adding loads of new weapons, levels, the ability to dual-wield firearms, and even a level creator, the possibilities for mayhem seem nearly endless. Along with more tracks from the musical artists that contributed to the now legendary original soundtrack, the 80s post-industrial techno sounds are back to fuel the murder with style all over again.
Blazing through the floors in a mad blur of red and neon pink is something that must be experienced by all gamers. There is something insanely rewarding about finally finishing a level in a near hectic state after failure after failure. You will die—this is certain—but when you do finally overcome, it will be all the more satisfying.
If you’re looking for a title that is the purest of what video games are supposed to be about with fast-paced, adrenaline boosting action, then Hotline Miami 2: Wrong Number is one you shouldn’t pass up. Grab your hammer and gloves, things are gonna get messy.
Hotline Miami 2: Wrong number hits the PlayStation Network March 10th.
