Exploring the Thrills of New Game Plus in Dishonored 2
Having recently completed Dishonored 2, I dove straight into the exhilarating experience of New Game Plus (NG+). This feature is not just an addition; it’s a vital enhancement that elevates the gameplay considerably.
What is New Game Plus?
The NG+ mode was introduced to PC players through a beta patch last week and has now been made available to all users. once you’ve finished the game at least once, NG+ allows you to embark on a new adventure at any difficulty level with either of the two protagonists. The best part? You carry over your runes, acquired bonecharm traits, and blueprints from your initial playthrough. This mode also unlocks all character-specific powers, enabling you to create a unique character that harnesses every ability available in the game.
Key features of NG+
In this mode, several elements transfer over: your learned bonecharm traits, assigned runes, and blueprints remain intact. However,certain items like coins,held bone charms,inventory objects,upgrades,and whale bones do not carry over. Here’s how to prepare for an optimal NG+ experience:
Preparation Tips for New Game Plus
- assign Your Runes: Before concluding your first playthrough, ensure that all runes are assigned. At the beginning of mission two in NG+, you’ll have access to every rune you had allocated when saving at the end of your previous journey—unassigned runes will not be transferred.
- Dismantle Bonecharms: While learned bonecharm traits will follow you into NG+, any held charms or raw whale bones won’t make it through. Dismantling all existing bonecharms before finishing your game is essential.
- Craft Extra Runes: Consider investing in rune crafting so that leftover whale bones can be transformed into additional runes.If you’ve collected all available bonecharms during your first playthrough, this should provide ample resources for crafting new abilities.
A Shift in Gameplay Dynamics
During my initial journey as Emily focused on stealthy non-lethal tactics—a satisfying 25-hour endeavor—I found myself enjoying every moment despite some early frustrations with performance issues on PC. My second playthrough as Corvo has been radically different; I’ve embraced chaos without concern for stealth or casualties—my only rule being no save reloads unless I perish.
This approach has opened up thrilling possibilities within gameplay dynamics thanks to my access to various abilities right from the start—allowing me full exploration of what Dishonored 2 offers creatively and strategically.
As a notable example:
- Corvo’s Blink ability proves invaluable during combat due to its time-freezing perk.
- His slow Time skill facilitates spectacular multi-enemy takedowns.
- Conversely, Emily’s Domino effect shines brilliantly during lethal encounters amidst chaotic battles.
With these powers combined from day one in NG+, I’ve crafted a more potent character build while honing my focus on creating powerful four-way charms using top-tier abilities I’ve unlocked throughout my journey.
The Endless Cycle of Power
As I progress further into NG+, I’ve noticed how addictive this cycle can become—you can continue onto third or even fourth runs! This endless loop encourages players like me who wish to max out their skills while anticipating upcoming custom difficulty settings promised by Arkane Studios in future updates.
Reflecting on my overall experience with Dishonored 2 reveals an upward trajectory—from initial frustration due to technical hiccups and underwhelming early levels—to sheer enjoyment as I delve deeper into its mechanics during NG+. For anyone eager to witness Dishonored 2 at its peak potential—embracing New Game Plus is highly recommended!