Heavy Game but Light Weight as far as Length and Multiplayer Options.
Here is the reason why I drew this conclusion.
Story:
There isn't many downloadable games with an actual story. I don't want to spoil anything, so I will not mention too much about the story. I will only say one phrase. "I want revenage." The presentation is flawless. I like how the game shows cutscenes during gameplay. This was done by using pop up windows to display what is going on behind the scenes.
Graphics:
This is one of shanks greatest pros. I seen cool 2D games, but 2D beat'em ups never looked this good. It has a nice clean comic book look to it. Another nice thing about the graphics is that the graphics stay consistant. Gameplay graphics matches the cutscenes. I hate it when gameplay graphics takes a nose dive after a cutscene, therefore Shank doesn't dissappoint in this area.
Gameplay:
The gameplay is simple, but deep. You have your basic light attack, strong attack, jump, block, and grenade button. However, the game also features a grapple button. The grabs are pretty brutal. You also have a pounce button, which allows you to jump into the air, pin your victim down with your knives, and have you way with him. You can also use long range weapons too. I like how you can shoot enemies away from you while you pinned your victim to the ground. Experimentation is the key to getting the most out of the gameplay.
Local Coop (No Online Coop):
There is no online coop. I believe this is what will turn alot of people off. Great games that lack online play is a killer sometimes. This is a huge disappointment in my opinion. This mode plays the same as the single player mode, so there isn't too much to talk about. There are painful coop attacks and you can assist your partner. This mode has a different story. This was done in order to create a story for shank and his partner.
Final Thoughts:
Pros:
The presentation is great and the gameplay really is solid. This is another game that proves beat'em ups still can hang. If you don't believe what I said about 2D beat'em ups, then check out my review for Scott Piligrim vs. the World.
Cons:
The game falls short in the length department.
Once again, just like Scott Pilgrim vs. the World there is no online coop.
What the heck is going on? No online coop again? Come on people. Great games deserve to be played with local and online friends.
This game is excellent, but lacking online play and length forces me to give this game an 8 out of 10.