This is one sweet shooter that provides a fast-paced, ultra fun experience. Try it!
The gameplay ideas behind Quake II are not revolutionary or new. Those who've played other id Software games before it know exactly what to expect: you basically go around killing everything that moves, and retrieve a key or some other item in order to gain access to the next level. It's a simple, straightforward, but ultimately entertaining game. Obviously, the weapons you find along the way are your only friends. And while I can't say they're as well balanced or responsive as the ones from the first Quake, they will get the job done.
Quake II also delivers an atmospheric experience, thanks to good use of ambient effects and sound queues, and generally more diverse environments than previous id Software games managed to pull off. Obviously, the story tends to fall into the background... not that there's much of a story to tell: you're stranded on an alien world called Stroggos and you need to kill your way to the alien leader, and take him out.
Of course, this review wouldn't be complete without a few words on multiplayer. The game was specifically designed for "trigger-happy idiots" so there's no time to stop and think about it. It doesn't feel quite as competitive or tight as the first Quake, but it's plenty fun anyway.
Moving on to the tech side, and we find another area where Quake II excels: graphics. It was the best looking game of its time, until Unreal came along and snatched that crown... The sound is also good, it definitely plays a part in the game's good atmosphere. It's a solid game on the technical side for sure.
Overall, this is one sweet shooter that provides a fast paced, ultra fun experience. So yes, try it. And don't forget to also try the two expansions, Ground Zero and The Reckoning, while you're at it.