ACII surpasses ACI by a long shot.
Graphics:
I love the character models in the first, and I feel the same in the second. They look like people, whereas, some games they smaller kid-like people or what not. So I am glad they kept that concept. Also, the architecture in this game is amazing! The buildings are built beautifully and match to corresponding houses from that time. Especially the main attractions. The major highlight is the increase in fluid motion for Ezio, his movements seem more human like than Altair's. They look normal and awesome, especially the physics involving combat and deflections. Brilliant.
Storyline:
Like the first, you start off as Desmond, you are attach to the animus where the Abstergo (Modern Day Templars) are using Desmond's DNA to target his ancestors for a special artifact that they have been searching for called "Eden Pieces". Because Demond is learning his ancestors life in the Animus, he acquired Eagle Vision from Altair, which is known as the bleeding effect. So, he was able to see subjects 16 blood writings on the wall in his place. Lucy, from the first AC has been there from the beginning and a modern day assassin finally breaks Desmond out to her place with other assassins. Where Desmond will learn how to be an assassin by locating his ancestor, Ezio. He will acquire his skills through the bleeding effect, while trying to figure out what the pieces of Eden are. It's complex but I believe I did a good job explaining it to you guys! lol
Gameplay:
ACII is exactly like ACI, the triangle button is you head, the square and circle are your arms and the X is your legs. It is a very easy system of controls and for combat, you will go through a combat training with your Uncle Mario. So there is a lot to do in ACII, unfortunately the dreadful eagle view of the landscape is there again. I understand the beauty in it, but man it's a drag to have to climb all the way up 66 times. Pain in my ass. Thankfully the missions are not all boring. The assassins contracts are fun. There are the racing of parkour where you beat a time, delivery service, and beat em up missions. Also, another cool aspect is your main hideout. You can renovate your villa and village to make a better income for your villa. With this, you can buy armour, swords, paintings, etc in the game which I thought was an interesting aspect to the game.
Sound:
The voice acting is always spot on in the game, just like the first. I do wish that Ezio was a big more rugged and bad ass, but he does a good job. I do however, prefer Altair's voice over his. Also, Nolan North as Desmond is awesome! With combat, the different weapons sound awesome, especially the maul, the impact of that weapon is awesome! I also enjoy the music that goes along with my daily stroll to kill people. lol
Overall:
The game is a definite boost from the first, of course some repetitiveness is involved, but it wont deter you from playing this game. So, if you were unsure, well, now you should be sure. Go get this game and enjoy it!