After spending countless hours with the beta, I already knew what I was getting into when I fired the full game up. This is a super-charged Left 4 Dead, with all the tense action and resource management from the first game but turned up to 11. If you are a veteran of that game you will recognize most of the systems - safehouses, special infected, hordes, teamwork - as the bones of the game are pretty much the same. Of course better hardware creates a more immersive environment, so the game does feel like an upgrade over L4D while at the same time providing a new experience. I would not call this a sequel, although it really is.
Probably my favorite part of the game is the card system. Great idea and so far, good execution here. It certainly adds an RPG/rogue element that enhances the enjoyment since no two runs are really ever the same. A truly huge selection of guns, the lack of which hurt L4D, really shines in Blood. Anybody who has a preference to a particular gun type should have no problem finding a weapon that works for them; throughout the game you can add attachments and find upgraded versions to avoid that weapon becoming out-classed. I have noticed very few criticisms of the gameplay, it plays great and feels fluid even online...mostly.
I have to admit I am disappointed with some of the decisions the developers made. Requiring online connectivity is a joke, there is no need for that. Remove it. Another thing that needs to be removed is the lock currently placed on the single player campaign. There is just no good reason for this, and while it does not really bother me it makes no sense. My biggest complaint however, and this comes directly from being such a huge fan of L4D, is the lack of split-screen co-op. I understand this is not a big deal for everybody, but this is the primary way I play the game with my wife since she long ago swore off the toxic, unforgiving, and non-inclusive world of online gaming-I have for the most part as well although I will go back from time to time. We play split-screen exclusively; I am not sure she will play this one due to that fact alone. The developers have said they will add this due to community feedback, while also even taking a look at the other issues I have presented. Please do. This game is easily a 9/10 if those features are addressed, if they never are the game is still a solid 8.