Game reviews / Dead Island 2
Dead Island 2
2023 · PC · PlayStation 4 · PlayStation 5 · Xbox One · Xbox Series X|S · Stadia · Action RPG · First-person shooter · Survival horror
5 scored sources · 3 countries contributing scores
Review consensus
Dead Island 2 is a polished, irreverent zombie action game built around exceptionally satisfying melee combat and a standout anatomical damage system. Its curated Los Angeles districts are visually rich, densely explorable, and packed with environmental storytelling, while improvised traps, weapon modifications, enemy variety, and three-player co-op keep the slaughter entertaining. Critics consistently found the experience repetitive, with shallow RPG systems, unremarkable character writing, forgettable quests, and limited combat evolution. Gunplay is weaker than the melee, and solo encounters can feel poorly balanced. Still, its visceral gore, dark humor, strong presentation, and focused scope make it an enjoyable throwback for zombie-action fans.
Limited geographic coverage. Treat this score as an early indication.
Last researched: 2026-09-19
Pros
- Weighty and highly satisfying melee combat with detailed anatomical gore
- Distinctive, visually appealing Los Angeles environments with rewarding exploration
- Fun weapon customization, environmental traps, enemy variety, and cooperative play
- Strong technical presentation and entertaining B-movie tone
Cons
- Repetitive missions and combat loop with limited long-term evolution
- Forgettable story, uneven dialogue, and underdeveloped characters
- Shallow or uninspiring RPG and skill-card systems
- Weak gunplay, loot fatigue, and occasional solo balance or technical issues
Review sources
5 sources found across 3 countries. This is not exhaustive worldwide coverage.
- GamePro · Germany · 81/100
- GamesRadar+ · United Kingdom · 80/100
- Push Square · United Kingdom · 70/100
- Destructoid · United States · 75/100
- GameSpot · United States · 70/100