Not the huge leap from the first game I was told about....
Set in the large open world of 17th century Italy the game has moved away from it's middle east roots but for some reason the graphics seem worse!?! - they might be technically better than AC but the first game blew me away upon release and AC 2 seems a little outdated.
Now for the plus points....For all the annoyances this series has given me I can't help but like it, in fact because of my completionist tendencies I have to collect all feathers ( hidden objects placed in unconventional locations ) and leave no treasure unlooted and no mission unplayed.
The free running aspect still works well, although I wish it required more skill on the pad - two buttons allow you to do everything, the only difficultly involved is when the game breaks its own rules and sends you to death instead of the usual auto jump to safety.
I don't mind the fighting, some reviews claim it's weak and has been outdone by Arkham ( that Batman game ) but it does the job and can be satisfying.
The new underground tombs are impressive, they play out like Sands of time (PS2).
So I'm left with mixed feelings, I do part love this game but I'm left wondering when the full potential will be realized.