Info about Watch_Dogs® 2:

Official game description:
Gold Edition
============
The Gold Edition includes:  
\- The game  
\- The Deluxe Pack: 2 personalisation packs  
\- The Season Pass  
Continue your Hacker's journey with several hours of additional mission content, new co-op difficulty modes, outfits, vehicles, and many other customization items. All at one great price with the Watch Dogs® 2 Season Pass.
Deluxe Edition
==============
Play as Marcus Holloway, a brilliant young hacker living in the birthplace of the tech revolution, the San Francisco Bay Area.  
The Watch Dogs®2 Deluxe Edition includes :  
\- The game  
\- The Deluxe Pack: 2 personalisation packs
About the Game
==============
Play as Marcus Holloway, a brilliant young hacker living in the birthplace of the tech revolution, the San Francisco Bay Area.  
Team up with Dedsec, a notorious group of hackers, to execute the biggest hack in history; take down ctOS 2.0, an invasive operating system being used by criminal masterminds to monitor and manipulate citizens on a massive scale.  
*   Explore the dynamic open-world, full of gameplay possibilities  
*   Hack into every connected device and take control of the city infrastructure.  
*   Develop different skills to suit your playstyle, and upgrade your hacker tools – RC cars, Quadcopter drone, 3D printed weapons and much more.  
*   Stay seamlessly connected to your friends with a brand new co-op and adversarial multiplayer Watch Dogs experience.
PUT YOUR EYES IN CTRL  
Get the upper hand with Tobii Eye Tracking. Let your gaze aid you in weaponizing the “internet of things”, aim at enemies and take cover while you naturally explore the environment. Combine the extensive eye tracking feature set to pinpoint enemies, interact with your surroundings, locate shelter points, and rapidly select hackable targets. Let your vision lead the hacking of the city’s digital brain.  
Compatible with all Tobii Eye Tracking gaming devices.  
\----  
Additional notes:  
Eye tracking features available with Tobii Eye Tracking.

Release date: Nov 28, 2016

Categories: Open-World Exploration, Hacking Gameplay, Cooperative Multiplayer, Stealth Gameplay, Third-Person Shooter, Action-Adventure, Parkour Gameplay, Drone Simulation


- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price: No data
- Playtime Metrics: No data
- Time-to-fun: No data
- Player Archetypes: No data


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Highly enjoyable gameplay experience (weight 0.99): Players consistently praise the game for its fun, engaging, and well-designed gameplay. The balance of complexity, variety, and smooth mechanics contributes to a highly enjoyable experience, with many highlighting co-op and open-world exploration as standout features.
- Innovative and immersive hacking mechanics (weight 0.89): Hacking is a core and highly praised feature, offering creative freedom, replayability, and deep integration with stealth, combat, and puzzle-solving. Players appreciate the variety of approaches it enables, such as environmental manipulation and non-lethal solutions.
- Vibrant and alive open world (weight 0.83): The game’s open world, particularly its depiction of San Francisco, is frequently described as immersive, dynamic, and full of life. NPCs with organic interactions, rich side activities, and detailed environments enhance the sense of realism and exploration.
- Strong character development and chemistry (weight 0.31): The game features a charismatic protagonist and a well-developed cast of characters, particularly the DedSec crew. Players appreciate the humor, chemistry, and idealistic motivations of the characters, which enhance the narrative and immersion.
- Excellent parkour and movement (weight 0.3): Parkour mechanics are highlighted as a standout feature, offering fluid, dynamic, and visually impressive movement. Players enjoy the seamless integration of parkour into exploration and combat.
- Well-crafted soundtrack and audio (weight 0.17): The soundtrack is frequently highlighted as a strong point, with diverse and well-integrated music that enhances immersion. Players appreciate how the music complements the game’s tone and hacker theme.
- Gadgets enhance gameplay variety (weight 0.12): Tools like the Jumper and drone are frequently mentioned as fun and useful additions that diversify gameplay. Players enjoy the creative ways these gadgets can be used to approach missions and explore the world.

Common complaints:
- Weak and repetitive story (weight 0.74): The game's narrative is widely criticized for being bland, repetitive, and lacking depth. Many players feel it fails to resonate emotionally and pales in comparison to the first game, with forced pacing and underdeveloped characters.
- Cringe dialogue and tone (weight 0.64): Dialogue is often criticized as forced, immature, or cringe-inducing, with awkward humor and slang that feels out of place. The tonal shift from the first game's seriousness alienates some fans.
- Repetitive and boring missions (weight 0.64): Missions, particularly side content, are repetitive and lack depth. Tasks like graffiti, hacking, or scavenger hunts feel padded and fail to engage players after the story ends.
- Frequent crashes and instability (weight 0.51): Players report widespread crashes, freezes, and instability, particularly on PC. Issues range from blue screens at launch to mid-mission crashes, making the game unplayable for some without workarounds.
- Poor optimization and performance (weight 0.49): The game suffers from severe optimization issues, including low FPS, stuttering, and hardware struggles even on high-end systems. Many players report inconsistent performance and demanding requirements.
- Forced online dependencies (weight 0.28): Achievements and missions often require online play, which is problematic due to dead servers, lag, or forced interactions with other players. This disrupts solo players and complicates 100% completion.
- Terrible driving physics (weight 0.27): Vehicle handling is widely panned as stiff, unrealistic, and unsatisfying. Cars feel flimsy or overly arcade-like, and missions involving driving are often frustrating due to poor control.
- Screen flickering on Nvidia GPUs (weight 0.26): A persistent graphical bug causes screen flickering, particularly on RTX 30/40/50 series GPUs. This issue severely disrupts gameplay and remains unaddressed by Ubisoft.
- Ubisoft Connect and launcher issues (weight 0.16): The Ubisoft Connect launcher is plagued by bugs, crashes, and unresponsive support. Some players cannot launch the game without workarounds, and mandatory account requirements frustrate users.
- Anti-cheat disrupts gameplay (weight 0.08): Easy Anti-Cheat causes crashes, prevents multiplayer access, and introduces stuttering. Disabling it removes online functionality, leaving players frustrated with forced dependencies.
- Overpriced and shallow DLCs (weight 0.08): DLCs are criticized for high prices, short content, and repetitive missions. Some achievements are locked behind purchases, and the overall value is perceived as low.

Gameplay feedback:
- Open-world hacking sandbox (weight 0.71): The game features an open-world environment with extensive hacking mechanics, allowing players to manipulate traffic lights, cameras, drones, and other electronic systems. This creates a dynamic and interactive sandbox experience, particularly in a cyberpunk setting like San Francisco.
- Reactive NPC interactions (weight 0.4): NPCs in the game exhibit dynamic behaviors and react to player actions, such as calling the police, engaging in conversations, or responding to hacking. This enhances immersion and world interactivity.
- Story-driven narrative (weight 0.4): The game features a strong narrative focused on a hacker-themed storyline, with character development and side quests that advance the plot. The story is a key driver of player engagement.
- Unique gameplay mechanics (weight 0.38): The game introduces unique mechanics distinct from other open-world titles, such as hacking-based interactions, strategic gadget usage, and creative mission approaches. These set it apart from competitors like GTA.
- Side quests and activities (weight 0.33): The game offers a variety of side quests and optional activities, such as races, bounty hunts, and photography challenges. These add depth and replayability to the open-world experience.
- Co-op and multiplayer modes (weight 0.26): The game supports cooperative and competitive multiplayer modes, including online invasions and co-op missions. This adds a social dimension to the gameplay, allowing players to team up or compete against each other.
- Drones and gadgets for strategy (weight 0.19): Players can use drones, remote-controlled vehicles, and other gadgets (e.g., Jumper, quadcopter) for stealth, hacking, and sabotage. These tools add variety and creativity to gameplay approaches.
- Minimal grind for progression (weight 0.13): Progression in the game does not require excessive grinding, making it accessible for casual players. Grinding is optional and primarily tied to leaderboards or achievements.
- Parkour and movement mechanics (weight 0.07): The game includes parkour and acrobatic movement systems, allowing players to navigate the open world dynamically. However, some players note that these mechanics can be buggy.
- Balanced difficulty curve (weight 0.07): The game is designed to be easy to learn but hard to master, requiring strategic thinking and adaptability. This difficulty curve appeals to both casual and hardcore players.

Performance notes:
- Launch and initialization failures (weight 0.2): Game fails to launch or initialize due to anti-cheat software, broken launchers, or reinstallation issues. Some players report blue screen crashes before the game even starts.
- Graphical glitches and bugs (weight 0.14): Minor but noticeable graphical issues, including anti-aliasing problems, texture flickering, and NPC glitches. Some bugs cause characters to fall through the world or disrupt gameplay.
- High system requirements (weight 0.11): Game demands high-end hardware for smooth performance, with many players reporting struggles on mid-range or low-end PCs. False minimum requirements exacerbate frustration.
- Server and online mode lag (weight 0.06): Online mode suffers from lag, particularly during driving or multiplayer sessions. Server issues also contribute to connectivity problems on some platforms.
- Steam Deck compatibility issues (weight 0.06): Mixed reports on Steam Deck performance, with some players experiencing compatibility issues, particularly for online play. Graphics driver warnings are also noted.
- Stuttering and texture issues (weight 0.04): Stuttering occurs during gameplay, often linked to textures or GitHub files. This disrupts immersion and fluidity, especially on lower-end systems.
- Save game corruption (weight 0.04): Players report corrupt files leading to progress loss. This issue is critical as it undermines long-term gameplay investment.
- Startup and loading problems (weight 0.03): Slow startup speeds and failures to load post-restart are reported. These issues delay gameplay and frustrate players.

Recommendations:
- Recommended for open-world fans (weight 0.42): The game is highly praised for its open-world design, freedom, and hacking mechanics, making it a must-play for fans of the genre. Many reviews highlight its replayability and unique atmosphere.
- Buy on sale only (weight 0.33): The majority of players strongly recommend purchasing the game only at a discounted price, citing technical issues, lack of gameplay depth, or poor value at full price. This sentiment is widespread across multiple clusters.
- Technical issues deter purchase (weight 0.28): Some players advise against buying the game due to persistent technical problems, such as performance issues, bugs, or language lock problems, which significantly impact the experience.
- Niche appeal for hacking fans (weight 0.26): The game is particularly recommended for players interested in hacking, programming, or cyberpunk themes, as well as those who enjoy non-linear gameplay and tech satire.
- High replayability and creativity (weight 0.25): The game is praised for its multiple mission approaches, freedom of playstyle, and engaging hacking mechanics, which contribute to its high replay value.
- Strong humor and satire (weight 0.23): The game's unique humor, satire, and youthful themes are highlighted as standout features, appealing to players who enjoy lighthearted yet meaningful storytelling.
- Avoid PC due to optimization (weight 0.11): Several players advise against purchasing the PC version due to poor optimization, launcher issues, or flickering. Console versions are often recommended as superior alternatives.
- Improvement over first game (weight 0.09): The sequel is widely regarded as an evolution of the original, with improved mechanics, open-world design, and overall experience. Fans of the first game are particularly encouraged to try it.
- Solo-friendly experience (weight 0.08): The game is enjoyable for solo players, offering engaging gameplay, tactical freedom, and a compelling single-player experience without relying on multiplayer.
- Weak online/multiplayer (weight 0.06): The online mode is criticized for being underwhelming, frustrating, or not worth engaging with. Players seeking a strong multiplayer experience are advised to avoid the game.

Other player notes:
- Surveillance and privacy themes (weight 0.1): Players frequently highlight the game's social commentary on digital privacy, corporate control, and modern surveillance. These themes are central to the narrative and resonate with real-world concerns.
- Language lock issues (weight 0.04): Regional versions of the game have language settings problems, limiting accessibility for non-English speakers. This is a recurring technical complaint.
- Short playtime criticism (weight 0.02): The game's length is frequently criticized as being too short, with some players comparing it to the time it takes to drink a cup of coffee.
- DLC required for 100% completion (weight 0.02): Players express frustration that additional DLC content is necessary to achieve full completion, which may feel like an unfair monetization tactic.
- Ubisoft server and achievement issues (weight 0.02): Players report problems with Ubisoft's server quality and online achievement systems, which can disrupt gameplay and progression.
- Wasted series potential (weight 0.02): Players feel the *Watch Dogs* series has untapped potential, with this installment failing to fully capitalize on its strengths or ideas.
- Comparison to Watch Dogs Legion (weight 0.02): The game is often compared to *Watch Dogs Legion*, with players noting similarities in mechanics, tone, or narrative structure.
- Dated internet meme culture (weight 0.02): Players critique the game's reliance on mid-2010s internet meme culture, which may feel out of touch or cringe to modern audiences.
- Declining Ubisoft IP quality (weight 0.02): Some players express concern that the *Watch Dogs* IP, like other Ubisoft franchises, is declining in quality or failing to innovate.
- Steam Deck compatibility workaround (weight 0.02): While the game is playable on Steam Deck, players report needing workarounds to achieve full compatibility, indicating optimization issues.
- Game size feels outdated (weight 0.02): Some players describe the game's size and scope as 'antiquated,' suggesting it feels underwhelming compared to modern standards.
- Mod highlights gameplay potential (weight 0.02): A specific mod (*WATCHDOGS 2: EXTENDED*) is frequently mentioned as enhancing the game, suggesting players see untapped potential in the base experience.
- Nostalgic cameo appearance (weight 0.02): The inclusion of Aiden Pearce from *Watch Dogs 1* is noted as a nostalgic highlight for fans of the series.
- Character resemblance concerns (weight 0.02): Some players note that a character in the game bears a strong resemblance to Franklin from *GTA V*, which may detract from originality for certain audiences.
- Console experience preferred (weight 0.02): Some players argue that the game runs better or is more enjoyable on consoles compared to PC, citing performance or optimization issues.
- Fictional corporations add depth (weight 0.02): Players appreciate the game's fictional corporations (e.g., Nudle, Invite, Tidis) for adding realism and depth to the game's world.

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.21): Players experience significant frustration due to pervasive technical issues, including frequent crashes, screen flickering, and initialization problems. Gameplay mechanics such as flawed stealth systems, unrealistic police presence, and poor vehicle handling exacerbate this emotion, alongside repetitive missions and unclear checkpoints.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.13): Players express satisfaction with the game's engaging story, well-designed puzzles, and smooth gameplay mechanics like hacking and parkour. Improvements over the original game, such as enhanced graphics, mission flexibility, and creative freedom, contribute to a positive experience, especially when the game runs smoothly on varied hardware.
- Disappointment (weight 0.13): Disappointment stems from the game's weak narrative, underdeveloped combat mechanics, and repetitive gameplay loops. Technical issues like poor optimization, unplayable performance on certain hardware, and unresolved bugs further diminish the experience, particularly when compared to the first game or player expectations.
- Excitement (weight 0.09): Players feel excitement due to the game's immersive hacking mechanics, vibrant open-world design, and creative freedom in mission approaches. The dynamic atmosphere, engaging parkour, and innovative gadgets contribute to a sense of anticipation and enjoyment, especially for those drawn to cybersecurity themes and chaotic multiplayer activities.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.07): Enjoyment arises from the game's fun and fluid gameplay mechanics, such as hacking, vehicle handling, and open-world exploration. The humorous tone, engaging side activities, and immersive world design create a refreshing and entertaining experience, particularly when the game's mechanics align with player expectations.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.06): The game evokes nostalgia through its atmosphere, references to 2010s internet culture, and detailed recreation of San Francisco. Players reflect on personal memories tied to the series, such as childhood experiences or past playthroughs, and appreciate the game's ability to capture the essence of its release era.
- Amusement (weight 0.06): Players find amusement in the game's humorous dialogue, satirical elements, and unpredictable NPC interactions. The campy tone, pop-culture references, and chaotic multiplayer activities contribute to a lighthearted and entertaining experience, often drawing comparisons to other open-world games like GTA.
- Appreciation (weight 0.04): Players appreciate the game's attention to detail in world design, immersive hacking mechanics, and thematic depth, such as LGBT representation and narrative themes. The balance between complexity and fun, alongside the richly detailed open world, fosters a sense of admiration for the game's creativity and replayability.
- Joy (weight 0.03): Joy is derived from the game's immersive world, engaging mechanics like hacking and parkour, and positive interactions with NPCs. Players enjoy exploring the map, discovering new content, and experiencing the game's relaxed yet dynamic atmosphere, which often evokes a sense of fun and freedom.
- Admiration (weight 0.03): Admiration is directed toward the game's unique hacking system, well-designed open world, and character dynamics. Players praise the game's realism, graphics, and innovative mechanics, often highlighting its standout qualities compared to other titles in the genre.
- Anger (weight 0.02): Anger is triggered by Ubisoft's poor handling of technical issues, such as persistent bugs, crashes, and unfair gameplay mechanics like unrealistic police chases. Players also express frustration with perceived greed, broken launchers, and unhelpful customer support, which detract from the overall experience.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.01): Enthusiasm is driven by the game's engaging gameplay mechanics, creative hacking tools, and immersive open-world design. Players appreciate the depth and variety of content, which fosters a sense of excitement and investment in the game's world and missions.
- Gratitude (weight 0.01): Players express gratitude for positive experiences, such as a happy ending or the game's ability to deliver enjoyable moments despite its flaws. Some also acknowledge the game's impact on their personal lives, such as gifts or memorable interactions.
- Recommendation (weight 0.01): Players strongly recommend the game to others, particularly fans of the first installment, due to its unique qualities, engaging mechanics, and overall enjoyable experience. The recommendation often stems from the game's ability to exceed expectations or deliver a standout experience in its genre.
- Approval (weight 0.01): Approval is given for the game's overall design, customization options, and variety of content. Players appreciate the balance between fun and complexity, as well as the game's ability to deliver a satisfying experience through its mechanics and world-building.
- Annoyance (weight 0.01): Annoyance arises from minor but persistent issues, such as lag during driving, crude humor, or the need for workarounds to fix technical problems. These issues, while not game-breaking, create small frustrations that detract from the overall experience.
- Frustration (weight 0.01): Similar to frustration, players in Portuguese-speaking regions cite performance optimization issues, bugs, and forced anti-cheat mechanics as key sources of frustration. The lack of fixes for persistent problems and the addition of achievements despite these issues further exacerbate this emotion.
- Discomfort (weight 0.01): Discomfort is caused by poor optimization leading to dizziness, unresponsive controls, or a disconnect between the game's tone and violent actions. These issues create an unpleasant or jarring experience for players, particularly during intense gameplay moments.
- Affection (weight 0.01): Affection is directed toward the game's likeable characters, heartwarming relationships, and cooperative activities. Players appreciate the warmth and camaraderie among characters, which fosters a sense of emotional connection and enjoyment.
- Indifference (weight 0): Indifference stems from a perceived lack of depth in the game's content, such as poorly developed characters or limited customization options outside the main story. Players may feel underwhelmed by the game's inability to engage them beyond its core mechanics.}