Beautiful like the first but not quite as good.
DS2 picks up where DS1 left off and draws you through a massively odd story where you are constantly being haunted by your dead wife all the while working your way towards the end of goal of taking down a marker. The levels are beautifully done though some of the scare/horror as worn off after getting used to the general pattern of the game play.
The weapon options and their improvement abilities do make for a nice addition in this game though not quite as versatile as what is presented in DS3. Good but not great. Ultimately, however, you do find yourself with a pleasant array of goodies to take down the necromorphs that constantly are seeking your death.
A great add-on for this storyline was the addition of Ellie. She was a bright spot amidst the depressing situation Isaac finds himself in. Bottom line, your relationship with her gives you something to keep you moving forward as, in the very least, you feel like you have at least one friend in all the terror.
Overall the DS series has been a wonderful addition to this generation of games. I'll admit that having completed the trilogy I find myself with renewed hope in what they might bring to the table next game. Here's hoping that ratchet things up in a positive way and keep the adrenaline rush going that seems to play out through the entire series. (well, not as much in DS3)