As an avid player of the original Drug Dealer Simulator, I was excited to dive into Drug Dealer Simulator 2, hoping for an expanded and refined experience. Unfortunately, while there are aspects of DDS2 that show promise, the game ultimately falls short of expectations in several critical areas.
Gameplay and Mechanics:
The core gameplay mechanics have undergone significant changes, some for the better and some for the worse. The new buyer and sales management system feels clunky and unintuitive compared to its predecessor, making the process more frustrating than rewarding. The life and skills system also feels poorly implemented, stripping away the sense of progression and engagement that made the first game so captivating.
One of the most disappointing changes is the shift in police dynamics. In DDS1, the threat of being searched by the police added a thrilling layer of tension. In DDS2, however, you can choose to fight the police, which diminishes the fear and excitement of getting caught. Additionally, the emphasis on mixing drugs, a feature many players loved in the first game, is not as prominent in the sequel, leaving some fans feeling let down.
Map and Environment:
The new tropical island setting is a stark departure from the gritty urban environment of DDS1. While the islands are visually stunning, the map is excessively large and poorly designed, with vast empty spaces and randomly placed parking spots that make navigation tedious. The hideout variety and customization options are a welcome addition, but the overall environment fails to capture the immersive vibe of the original game’s city ghetto.
Graphics and Performance:
Despite playing with maximum settings, the graphics in DDS2 appear blurry and unattractive. The constant rain adds to the visual annoyance, making the game less enjoyable to look at. Performance-wise, the game is riddled with bugs, from minor texture glitches to game-breaking issues. These bugs significantly detract from the overall experience and highlight a lack of thorough testing before release.
Vehicles and Drug Management:
The addition of vehicles in DDS2 is a mixed bag. While the variety of boats and cars is a fun progression element, their practical use is limited. The fast travel system with cars feels superfluous, as parking spots are inconveniently placed, and the vehicles consume fuel at an alarming rate. The new drug management system is overly complicated and lacks the fluidity of the first game, making it more of a chore than an engaging feature.
Interactions and Quests:
Interactions with gangs and the overall quest system are another area where DDS2 falls short. The game’s logic often forces players into absurd situations, such as paying off gangs or defending against knife threats, which result in negative reputations. Quests frequently suffer from poor instructions, missing markers, and progression issues, leading to confusion and frustration.
Conclusion:
Drug Dealer Simulator 2 is a game with potential, but it ultimately fails to live up to the expectations set by its predecessor. For new players, there is still fun to be had, and the game offers a unique experience in the genre. However, returning players hoping for a refined and expanded version of DDS1 may find themselves disappointed by the numerous changes and shortcomings. While the game is worth its price and adds some interesting elements to the franchise, it requires significant polish and refinement to truly shine. If you’re a fan of the genre, you might find some enjoyment in DDS2, but temper your expectations and be prepared for a less immersive experience compared to the original.
Jacmac is an ancient gamer that loves open world, strategy, FPS, and tactical sims, but will play almost anything.
Comment here