It would be hard to write a review of Assassins Creed 2 without comparing it to the first in every way because it every way it is better and there isn't a whole lot of other games to compare it to or a better way to say how good it is.
Lets get this out of the way first, Assassin's Creed 2 is a fantastic game.
When it comes to the gameplay I can't decide what the strongpoint is, combat or platforming. While running across the rooftops like a super awesome superhero I would think "They should add more platforming stuff because this rocks" then I'd get to an Assassins Tomb and then scream "WTF they should never have platforming ever again!" I guess what I'm trying to say is that both things are great at one time in the game at least but I never wanted to quit because of the bad moments so they weren't that bad. The combat is repetitive yet still awesome because of the sweet takedowns that I never got sick of watching. After going nearly the whole game with the sword then all of a sudden losing it and having to use a dagger with all new takedowns the combat felt new again so I would suggest mixing up weapons every once in a while to keep things fresh. The missions are a lot of fun and never feel like your doing the same thing over and over or not making a difference in the story. Having plenty of collectables around the world adds to the total hour count and perfect difficulty achievements that you don't need to go out of your way for make the whole shabang real streamlinish.
The graphics are good during gameplay but the characters felt stiff and un lifelike in cut scenes which sucks but is easily looked past once the game is back in your hands.
All in all a sweet game with lots of fun killing to be had.