Call of Duty 2 is the 2005 sequel that runs four campaigns across the Russians, the British 7th Armoured Division, the Americans and a second British stretch in Normandy. The action rarely lets up, with Moscow’s holdout, the cliff assault and the Hill 400 stand among its densest set pieces.
For a 2005 release the game looks clean, running buttery smooth and noticeably better than the Xbox 360 build. The D-Day level holds up well for its age, and the presentation overall is a highlight.
The compass and objective markers constantly call out enemy positions and objectives, keeping the chaos readable. Generous checkpoints mean deaths rarely cost much progress, a kindness the previous entry lacked.
The Sten earns favourite status for its unconventional form and satisfying sound, while the MP40 provides a reliable ammo supply. Captain Price’s return in the British campaign gives series veterans a familiar anchor.
Grenade spam is relentless, with enemies throwing at the highest-difficulty rate and no indicator to warn of the blast, most brutal at Hill 400. Accidental friendly fire instantly fails the mission, which pairs badly with squadmates who run into the line of fire.
Enemies blend into the scenery so well that spotting them becomes a strain, and the Thompson’s 20-round magazine runs dry too fast. One armoured-car mission bugs out when the driver ignores the route, forcing a restart, and the finale ends abruptly.
Overall, relentless action, varied missions and strong presentation make Call of Duty 2 an easy recommendation. The grenade-happy AI and abrupt ending are the main knocks on an otherwise excellent campaign.