Darksiders 2 Deathinitive Edition Review for PS5: A Perfect Remaster Experience

2024/10/14

The Darksiders 2 Deathinitive Edition on the PS5 represents a significant upgrade from the PlayStation 4 version. Not only does it address numerous flaws I experienced with the PS4 remaster of this beloved 2012 title, but it also introduces fresh features that elevate the PS5 version to the status of the ultimate “definitive” edition of Darksiders 2, even surpassing the PC version in some respects.

Considering the trend of remasters, particularly those that are released as free updates, I approached Darksiders 2 with skepticism. This viewpoint was reinforced by the fact that the PS4 iteration was not the best way to enjoy the game, plagued as it was by various technical glitches and a restrictive 30fps cap.

Yet, the PS5’s “re-release”of the Deathinitive Edition is nearly flawless. While there are a few lingering issues I’ll discuss later, it’s evident that Gunfire Games excelled with Darksiders 2. In 2024, it stands as one of the finest remasters I’ve experienced on my PS5, and it has reignited my enjoyment of Darksiders 2 like never before.

Darksiders 2 Deathinitive Edition on PS5: A Phenomenal Action RPG with Enhanced Graphics

What does the Darksiders 2 Deathinitive Edition offer on PS5?

The first aspect that captivated me upon starting Darksiders 2 Deathinitive Edition on PS5 was the updated lighting engine. The visuals have transformed from looking washed out—characteristic of the PS4 version—to a much more vibrant rendition, all while excluding HDR support.

The artistic style of Darksiders 2 remains impressive. (Image via THQ Nordic)

Moreover, this latest remaster boasts ray-traced shadows. While I was slightly disappointed that ray tracing was limited to shadows alone—wishing for effects like RTGI and perhaps some reflective surfaces—my experience so far indicates that these ray-traced shadows do not impact performance.

For those who encounter frame rate difficulties, there’s an option to disable RT shadows. Speaking of frame rates, I’m thrilled to share that Darksiders 2 has shed the 30fps restriction found on consoles. The PS5 version consistently operates at nearly flawless 60fps (without v-sync).

This increase in frame rate rectifies my foremost criticism of the PS4 version, which, even on the PS5 via backward compatibility, struggled with inconsistent 30fps. Alongside this enhancement and the impressive visuals, I was also taken by the integration of DualSense haptics. Darksiders 2 fully utilizes DualSense capabilities.

Players can feel each swing of Death’s scythes through the controller, and there are directional vibrations that signal off-screen enemies. Unique vibrations based on different terrains further enhance the experience, whether you’re galloping on Death’s horse, Despair, or traversing on foot towards your goals.

The ray-traced shadows shine in some advanced dungeons. (Image via THQ Nordic)

Apart from Demon’s Souls, Darksiders 2 Deathinitive Edition is the only RPG I’ve played on PS5 that fully leverages DualSense haptics. Other than these updates, the game remains consistent with the PS4 version, complete with all DLC expansions, various armor sets, and more.

Understanding Darksiders 2

For newcomers to the franchise, Darksiders 2 is an action RPG with a semi-open-world format. It draws parallels to the newer God of War titles but features a lengthier endgame and much less hand-holding. Furthermore, playing the original Darksiders is not essential for enjoying the sequel, although familiarity with it enriches the story experience.

Death's narrative isn't as straightforward as it appears. (Image via THQ Nordic) — Death’s narrative isn’t as straightforward as it appears. (Image via THQ Nordic)

The narrative of Darksiders 2 is slightly intricate but not as convoluted as those in Dark Souls or Elden Ring. Players assume the role of Death, one of the “Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse,”who has deserted his position alongside the “Charred Council”to resurrect humanity from extinction, thus proving his brother War’s innocence.

This story unfolds powerfully, incorporating mature themes of sacrifice and rebirth. I’ve always appreciated how Vigil Games (now Gunfire Games) portrayed Death in this installment. He is a stoic figure who speaks little, letting his deeds convey his intentions, and when he does speak, it’s often condescending to those around him.

I’d prefer not to spoil the storyline, but if you enjoy narratives from games like Devil May Cry, classic God of War titles, or Dragon’s Dogma, you’ll likely appreciate the storytelling in Darksiders 2 as well. For players less invested in the narrative, the gameplay is still engaging and rewarding.

The gameplay in Darksiders 2 adheres to typical action RPG mechanics. While there’s no traditional leveling system, a robust skill tree grants players access to significant passive and active abilities. Additionally, there’s tiered loot and plenty of optional content to explore alongside the main story quests, along with extensive end-game content.

With all the DLC included, there's ample content for any action RPG enthusiast. (Image via THQ Nordic) — With all the DLC included, there’s ample content for any action RPG enthusiast. (Image via THQ Nordic)

The base campaign lasts around 15 to 20 hours on average, based on the side quests undertaken. Moreover, the Deathinitive Edition features two story expansions accessible following the completion of the first and second main story arcs, which extends the total gameplay well beyond 30 hours with the included DLCs.

Is Darksiders 2 Deathinitive Edition worth the investment on PS5?

Now, let’s address the pivotal question: Is Darksiders 2 Deathinitive Edition worth purchasing? Absolutely! Firstly, if you already own the PlayStation 4 version, you can upgrade to the current-gen PS5 version for free. This also applies to players who received the game through the PlayStation Plus monthly catalog.

The remaster provides substantial enhancements over the PS4 version for a complimentary upgrade. (Image via THQ Nordic)

If you own the Deathinitive Edition on Xbox One or PC, you will also receive the upgrade for the next-gen system at no cost. For a free price tag, it’s certainly worth a shot. For those who don’t already own the game on PS4, Darksiders 2 can be purchased for $30, which is a remarkable deal for fans of this genre.

I commend Gunfire Games and THQ Nordic for not trying to exploit nostalgia but rather providing the current-gen upgrade, complete with substantial enhancements, at absolutely no cost. Even if you were unimpressed by the Darksiders sequel on PS4, it’s worth giving this PS5 version a chance.

I genuinely believe that the visual improvements, performance enhancements, and overall quality-of-life upgrades in this current-gen release will attract numerous new players. With Gunfire Games demonstrating their growth from Darksiders 3 to Remnant 2, I eagerly anticipate their next project, Darksiders 4.

A Few Drawbacks

While I am genuinely pleased with the PS5 version of Darksiders 2, it is not without its imperfections. Gunfire Games has indeed rectified many performance issues from the PS4 version and added some impressive visual features, yet the PS5 remaster is not entirely free of performance and graphic glitches.

Despite certain technical flaws, this is among the finest remasters available on the PS5. (Image via THQ Nordic)

During my review sessions, I completed the base game campaign, tackled all significant side quests (excluding Argul’s Tomb), and conquered the Crucible, totaling around 35 hours. I do plan on finishing the DLCs and undertaking a New Game Plus run to collect all trophies soon.

Throughout my playthrough, I encountered roughly eight crashes, which, while not catastrophic, is less than ideal for console gaming. Additionally, the game does not support V-Sync or VRR on the PS5, leading to noticeable screen tearing—especially in areas like the opening Drenchfort and the later stages in Earth and the Well of Souls.

While the frame rate generally maintains a steady 60fps, there are moments—like the Wailing Host boss fight—where it dips into the upper 40s to 50s. Occasional visual problems, such as Death becoming stuck on terrain or enemies stuck in looping animations, may also occur.

Nonetheless, the PS5 version remains in significantly better condition compared to the PS4 or the original PS3 versions. The crashes are infrequent enough not to disrupt the experience, and the frame rate drops and screen tearing are minor annoyances unless you are particularly sensitive to these issues.

In Conclusion

Darksiders 2 Deathinitive Edition is an outstanding remaster of a remarkable action RPG. Although some technical glitches persist in this current-gen iteration, the extensive improvements—particularly in visuals, thanks to ray-traced shadows, enhanced frame rates, and comprehensive DualSense haptic feedback—easily overshadow these shortcomings.