IT came as a surprise when a sequel to The Evil Within – the 2014 survival horror from Resident Evil creator Shinji Mikami – was announced at E3 this summer.

The game was a largely frustrating experience that failed to recreate a truly memorable horror game.

The Evil Within 2, this time directed by John Johanas, is set three years after the events at Beacon Mental Hospital.

Here we find former detective Sebastian Castellanos haunted by the ‘Beacon incident’ and racked with guilt following the death of his daughter.

He is quickly recruited by the mysterious organisation, Mobius to enter STEM – a hive-mind virtual world – after its core goes missing, which happens to be Sebastian’s daughter.

Once inside you find yourself in Union, referred to as Anytown, USA.

The semi open world of Union is literally crumbling – think Inception – and is flooded with the Lost, former citizens who have lost their minds.

Once the action begins you can choose to play it stealthy or approach the game like a third-person shooter.

Resources are not too scarce unless played on higher difficulties.

Ammo and med packs can also be crafted at the one of game’s many workbenches, as well as on the go.

A communicator tool helps direct players towards points of interest, sometimes finding new characters, side quests or information that flesh out the world.

The frustrating boss fights from the first game are gone, with The Evil Within 2 pulling out some truly memorable encounters. The same cannot be said about the game’s cast.

Sebastian is still as dull as dishwater, although at least he has a personal motivation this time round. The game’s antagonists fare a little better.

Sadly the game’s scares do lack originality and often feel cheap.

As you progress through the 15-hour campaign the game becomes more linear and focused, with a strong final act that compels you to see it through to the end.

By its conclusion it is clear The Evil Within 2 largely succeeds where its predecessor failed.

By stepping aside, Shinji Mikami has allowed The Evil Within 2 to evolve into a different beast, bringing classic survival horror to a modern audience.

8.5