Tremendous value for two PS2 classics.
While playing through the God of War franchise, it's easy to forget these games really aren't that old. The original debuted late in the PS2's lifespan (2005), while God of War II came out as the shift to HD consoles was well under way (2007). So perhaps it shouldn't be so shocking that this HD re-release looks as good as it does ... but still ... it does. These are PS2 games, and seeing them in crisp 1080p, it's amazing they look as good as most current-generation releases.
GoW and GoW II certainly play as well as current-gen action games, having practically perfected the action-platformer in their day. The only knock you can really make on God of War's gameplay is that it does get repetitive, even moreso if you play the two games back-to-back, or if you've already dabbled with the original games on PS2 or the PSP releases. There is a clear-cut GoW formula, and if you've grown tired of swinging those chains and tapping through QTE boss battles, I doubt the HD re-skin is going to do much to reignite any excitement for these games.
That said, if you never played the originals to completion or if this is your first time seeing them at all, you're in for a treat as both games hold up remarkably well in 2011. Even moreso with widescreen HD to show off the incredible level designs and art direction going on outside of the action. These are epic levels that cover tons of environments, with well-considered pacing as you alternate between combat heroics and light puzzle-solving. The overall storyline is surprisingly impactful in the series debut as Kratos' personal history is unveiled. There are clear and dramatic motivations for the insane violence you unleash on the world.
Unfortunately, the plot quickly loses steam in the sequel as it's clear the developers had to come up with something to justify an additional game rather than tell any sort of necessary story. The sequel also feels more like brainless bloodlust than any sort of compelling personal vendetta like the original, which can eventually grate you as a player. It can be tiring to play a mindless butcher who lashes out at everyone and everything, even moreso when the combat mechanics eventually start to wear you out and the storyline isn't doing much to propel you forward.
All things considered, the God of War Collection is a brilliant idea as a package and a total steal at only $40 (new). I can only hope other classic franchises receive the HD compilation treatment in the near future.
