"More of the same" may not be what's needed from ASSASSIN'S CREED II (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Windows; November 17). Although the first game's open environments, parkour-like movement, and heavily populated cities impressed a good number of critics and gamers, its repetitive mission structure turned many others off. The sequel gives you control of a new assassin with even more deadly skills than his predecessor boasted. It also takes place in a gorgeous new setting, Renaissance-era Italy, which promises tours through detailed re-creations of Florence, Venice, Rome, and many more cities. Even so, the stunning environments won't mean much if the development team — up to an astonishing 450 employees — can't give us something interesting to do there.
As gamers know all too well, release dates are subject to change. Make sure to contact your local retailer for the latest schedule.
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