Improves on the original in almost every way.
It is a sandbox and at times can get tedious, much like the 1st game. But thats what a sandbox game is all about. Anyhoo.
Its all about the story. You get much more clued in about what Desmonds role in the story is, and they did it without popping out of the animus and hanging around the lab. The truth and codex aspects really made the difference in this game. Its gives you that focus to want to complete all the easter eggs.
The Assassins tombs were a great addition. The new economic system was a cool add, but I think it could have been a bit better more challenging. It was way too easy to complete your villa and become uber rich. But I liked the way you have to pay off mercanaries, hookers, and thiefs to help you out. As well as acquire health and items. If the economics and villa thingy were just a bit more complex or difficult it could have really made it seem like you have to work to get all the stuff. As where it really felt like more of a formality. In general all the easter eggs in this game will give you some sort of satisfaction, as where in the first game. Capturing all the flags and killing all templars was like, yep I did it. cool but where's my reward. Here you do get some rewards. Money, Items, info, etc.
I'm glad they included the DLC's in the PC version. As the assassinations in bonfire of the vanities where most challenging that I faced in the game. And the flying mini game in Forli was way cool.
The only cons I can think of is really the main game sequences and combat is a bit too easy. Also the economics and villa building part was a bit too simplified and easy. Really the hardest part of the game was the assassin's tomb puzzles and foot races.