Syphon Filter 2

About

In Syphon Filter 2, agents Gabe Logan and Lian Xing uncover a plot to sell the Syphon Filter virus within their own organization, leading to a manhunt against them. Players must strike with efficiency to expose the conspirators and prevent a bio-weapon disaster, with up-rendering, rewind, quick save, and custom video filters added to the PS4 and PS5 versions. This action-packed sequel to the original Syphon Filter game was released in 2000 and offers enhanced features for modern consoles.

Genres & Tags

Action

Play Modes

Single-Player Play through the game's story or campaign solo

94%

Audience ScoreBased on 35 reviews

story8 positive mentions

music2 negative mentions

The game features a great balance of hardcore action and stealth, with interesting missions and a variety of weapons to choose from.
The sound design is exceptional, providing an immersive experience with realistic gunfire and engaging music.
Syphon Filter 2 is considered one of the best in the series, with enjoyable gameplay that remains fun even years after its release.

The graphics, particularly the character models, are outdated and can be disappointing, with some characters appearing faceless.
The game can be frustratingly difficult, making it challenging to progress without repeated failures.
The multiplayer mode lacks depth and variety, offering a basic shooting experience that may not meet expectations.

story
13 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
62%
15%
23%
The story revolves around the resurgence of the Syphon Filter virus, with protagonists Gabe Logan and Lian Xing tasked with its containment. While the narrative may not appeal to players seeking straightforward action, those who appreciate intricate dialogue and espionage themes will find it engaging. The game successfully balances action and stealth elements, contributing to a compelling experience despite its nostalgic graphics.
- “Gamers who just play something to shoot something will probably be turned off by the dialogue in this game, but if you actually like listening to secret agents talk about shipments provided by the NSSOAA after NASDAQ collapsed in 2007, and the CIA requested a peace treaty with the Taliban (by the way, none of that ever happened in the game), then you'll be engulfed in the storyline and dialogue.”
- “All in all, a great FPS/spy game with a deep storyline. I hope they make a new one someday on PS3.”
- “I got it pretty much for nostalgia, but despite the graphics, it's a great game with an interesting storyline.”
- “Gamers who just play something to shoot something will probably be turned off by the dialogue in this game, but if you actually like listening to secret agents talk about shipments provided by the NSSOAA after NASDAQ collapsed in 2007, and the CIA requested a peace treaty with the Taliban (by the way, none of that ever happened in the game), then you'll be engulfed into the storyline and dialogue.”
- “This is an action game, so there really isn't much for plot - I wish they didn't bother.”
- “The story simply puts the Syphon Filter virus running rampant for the second time, and it's Gabe Logan's and Lian Xing's job to contain it.”
graphics
11 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
36%
36%
27%
The graphics of this PS1 game are considered weak by modern standards, yet they are notably better than many other titles from the same era. While the visuals may not have improved in the sequel, the nostalgic charm and engaging storyline compensate for the outdated graphics, making it a beloved classic for many players.
- “It's an old school PlayStation game, so the graphics are weak, but the game is a blast, and it's one of my all-time favorites.”
- “I got it pretty much for nostalgia, but despite the graphics, it's a great game with an interesting storyline.”
- “The graphics, music, and special effects were identical to the first, which were good, but there was no improvement in the sequel.”
- “Graphics: certainly not the best graphics ever seen on a PS1 game, but you have to admit, this game looks a lot better than most other PS1 games.”
- “Also, figuring some things out can be annoying, but for the most part, the game will flow smoothly (not including the old-school graphics, of course).”
music
3 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
33%
67%
The music in the game is generally viewed as an improvement over the quieter and less engaging tunes of its predecessor, SF3, though some critics note that it lacks innovation compared to the original. Overall, while the music is considered good, it does not show significant advancement in the sequel.
- “The graphics, music, and special effects were identical to the first, which were good.”
- “The graphics, music, and special effects were identical to the first, which were good, but there was no improvement in the sequel.”
- “And don't complain about the music... at least it sounds better than SF3's quiet and unexciting tunes.”
gameplay
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The gameplay features a physics engine that, while not exceptional, is satisfactory enough to avoid complaints from players.
- “Gameplay: the physics engine is not a legendary make-up, but you won't find yourself complaining, either.”