It seems very rare today that movie-directors and game-developers actually listen to the fans for advice, but Monolith is a exception. Not only did they let the fans come up with the title Project Origin (which is now used as a sub-title), but they fixed quite some problems that were adressed in the previous game. FEAR 2 now has iron sights which is very handy in combat, the level-design has a lót more variety then the first game, and the overall graphics and atmosphere has been polished. It is also possible to push over a table or other kind of furniture to use for cover.
A lot of people have said that FEAR 2 is more focused on the action, which is kinda true, but the game still adds some nice atmospheric elements that sets itself apart from other shooting-games. A good example is the elementary school level, which is probably the best level in the game so I'm not going to spoil it. For the first time, the ghosts and apparitions (including Alma) can actually hurt you, and it at least gives you some reason to be scared of them which also is a improvement since there is not much reason to be afraid of a cut-scene. Alma comes out from time to time to scare the hell out of you and make you tap the B-button like a mad man if you don't want to die.
The biggest downside of FEAR 2 is the length. Its easy to race through this game in less then 2 days, so I suggest you take your time and enjoy the detailed environment of the game as much as you can. You will also have plenty of blood and gore to look at, so gore-hounds will certainly love shooting flesh and limbs off enemies. I would even go as far as to call FEAR 2 the most bloody game from Monolith since Blood from 1997. The multiplayer-aspect I haven't really checked out so I can't say much about that, but if you are looking a for a atmospheric first person shooter then look no further then this game. It maybe short, but it certainly is sweet.
