This year’s E3 was full of big surprises and although the big announcements ruled the show on the hardware side there was one stall that brought some attention fleeing back to the games side of things. Last year Left 4 Dead enjoyed huge success and critical acclaim, it wasn’t a big budget title nor was it highly promoted but gamers flocked to pick up the game after hearing the rave reviews it received. Developed by Valve the original title secured a loyal fan base of which will be eager to continue the shocks and thrills the title offers. Left 4 Dead 2 will take the series to the next level. The game will remain the same for the majority and just like the first gamers will play as one in a group of four attempting to survive a hoard of blood thirsty zombies with teamwork and tactical thinking imperative for survival.

The Poster style intro for levels will return with the catchy headlines also set to return this left us asking what is going to change. The main gameplay addition to Left 4 Dead 2 is the melee combat with brand new weapons, like a frying pans and axes, these weapons of course are only usable when in close range; which will no doubt be a hugely satisfying experience for all involved. Dismembering zombie limbs is yet another new feature and while the prospect of going postal with an axe is exciting imagine going on a rampage with a chainsaw which is yet another new addition to your weapon arsenal. Another addition to the game play will be weapon upgrade stations based sporadically across the different levels, these stations will allow players to access different options for their weapons like flaming bullets.
With all these great features set to make your battle for survival a little easier it wouldn’t be fair if Valve didn’t level the playing field. To do this you will be fighting off a new enemy called a Charger that as the name suggests chargers at you and throws you repeatedly to the ground until your team attempts to rescue you. While their remains to be little changed with the game play you will be part of a whole new team taking on the un dead with a whole new dynamic. The team consists of a large gentleman going by the name Coach, who has somewhat of an attitude problem and the hoards of zombies calling for his head don’t seem to bother him; by his side there is Rochelle, a petite female character of whom there has been little detail announced for.

Rounding out the amazing foursome is Nick, who dons a white suit and likes to shoot first ask questions later; last but not least is a jock named Ellis, who fits that exact stereotype from high school. While details of most of the characters have been kept under wraps there are sure to be a lot of strong personalities that will enlighten this quest for survival. Left 4 Dead 2 doesn’t revamp the series but then why fix it when it isn’t broken but the additions that have been made are sure to lift the series keeping fans happy. As for the addition of new enemies and weapons can only add to the already highly addictive experience Left 4 Dead offered. After finally putting our hands to the sequel at this year's E3, we walked away very excited for it's release, the opinions that it's a glorified add-on were far from our thoughts. The highly anticipated sequel is set to turn graves this November so stay tuned for more information right here at PlanetXbox360.com.