God of War II is a well crafted game.
There's more weapons than the first game and new magic attacks. Two additional weapons to use during the game. Upgradeable. The action is pretty cool too. I wouldn't say that this one is as good as the first but is still worth buying. It has better replay value than the first. Theres more to do after you beat the game. Graphics are still very cool for PS2's time. Overall it's a good game.
Story wise, I don't want to give away much but it does leave open for a third game, which is already in development. The story is pretty good and when you get to the end, you realize that the Third installment is gonna be very action filled.
They improved on things like the fighting. The new magic is really cool. They kept the Medusas head and one of the lightning attacks but Atlas Quake and Cronos Rage is awesome addition. Especially when maxed. Reminded me of Fable when using them, frying multiple enemies at once or thundering giant boulders at them.
The cutscene fights were improved too. The things Kratos does with just two blades is amazing.
The only downside that I find to this game is needs more change. It was more similar to playing the first game. Almost like an expansion other than an entirely new game. Some of the puzzles in the game are easily solved from having to face them in the first game. But don't worry, there's plenty of button smashing.
Can't wait for the Third.