Watch Dogs 2 builds upon the foundation of its predecessor while introducing new mechanics, refining gameplay, and creating a more immersive experience. From hacking improvements to better driving mechanics, the game offers a fresh take on the open-world hacker fantasy. If you’re just starting out in Watch Dogs 2, here’s everything you need to know to hit the ground running.

1. The New and Improved Smartphone Interface

One of the first major changes players will notice in Watch Dogs 2 is the redesigned smartphone interface. To access your phone, press the Options button on PlayStation or the equivalent button on Xbox. Here, you’ll find several important apps, including:

• Car on Demand: Allows you to order vehicles directly to your location.
• Research Center: Tracks your skill tree and allows you to unlock abilities using Research Points earned from missions.
• DeadSec App: Houses all main and side missions.
• Media Player: Lets you create custom playlists.
• Driver SF: A ride-sharing mini-game similar to Uber, which lets you earn money—but be careful, as some pickups can turn into dangerous encounters.
• Camera App: A new feature not seen in the original Watch Dogs, allowing for in-game photography.

2. A Vastly Improved Open World

The city of San Francisco is a major upgrade from the original Watch Dogs’ version of Chicago. It’s more vibrant, full of life, and features distinct districts, each with a unique feel. Additionally, the Golden Gate Bridge, one of the most iconic landmarks, is fully explorable.

3. Seamless Hacking and Vehicle Manipulation

One of the most exciting changes in Watch Dogs 2 is the expanded hacking system. You can now hack vehicles on the go, causing them to swerve into walls or traffic, making for some intense chase sequences. The ability to interact with more environmental elements brings more depth to the gameplay.

4. New Gadgets: RC Jumper and Quadcopter

• RC Jumper: A remote-controlled car that can interact with its surroundings, hack into electronics, and infiltrate restricted areas.
• Quadcopter: A drone that provides aerial reconnaissance, helping you scout out areas from above.

These two gadgets significantly change how missions are tackled, offering new ways to be stealthy or disruptive.

5. How to Navigate the DeadSec Hideout

The DeadSec headquarters is located inside a comic book shop, providing a base of operations for Marcus and his crew. Inside, you’ll meet key members of DeadSec, including:

• Wrench: A fan-favorite hacker known for his distinctive LED mask.
• Other DeadSec Members: Each with their own unique role in the hacker collective.

The hideout is where you’ll purchase weapons, upgrade your tech, and interact with the team.

6. Buying and Customizing Vehicles

Unlike the first Watch Dogs, where you unlocked cars by stealing them, in Watch Dogs 2 you buy vehicles from dealerships. Simply enter a dealership, hold Triangle (or the equivalent button), and browse through the available cars. Vehicles can also be customized with different paint jobs for a more personalized look.

7. Parkour and Movement Mechanics

Watch Dogs 2 introduces smoother and more responsive parkour mechanics. Marcus can:

• Jump over obstacles seamlessly.
• Slide across rooftops.
• Vault over cars.

To jump, hold R2, and to sprint, press L3. The parkour system is a significant improvement over the first game, allowing for faster and more dynamic movement.

8. Improved Driving Mechanics

Driving in Watch Dogs 2 has been completely overhauled, making it much more responsive than the first game’s simulation-like mechanics. Cars handle better, and each vehicle type feels distinct. You can now shoot while driving, adding more action-packed moments to the gameplay.

9. Hacking and Energy Points

Instead of requiring skill points to unlock hacking abilities, you now have a limited energy supply for hacking actions, displayed at the bottom-right of the screen. Each hack consumes a portion of your energy, so managing these points strategically is crucial.

10. Hidden Aiden Pearce Easter Egg

For fans of the first game, there’s an Aiden Pearce mission hidden within Watch Dogs 2. Completing it unlocks Aiden Pearce’s outfit, allowing players to pay homage to the original protagonist.

11. Side Activities and Customization

Aside from main missions, Watch Dogs 2 offers a variety of side activities, including:

• Driver SF: A ride-sharing side mission system.
• Clothing Customization: Purchase and equip different outfits at clothing stores.
• Car Customization: Apply paint jobs to personalize your vehicles.

Final Thoughts

Watch Dogs 2 takes everything that worked in the first game and enhances it significantly, adding a vibrant city, a dynamic cast of characters, and improved mechanics. Whether you’re experimenting with gadgets, refining your hacking abilities, or engaging in high-speed chases, the game offers an engaging and thrilling experience.

Be sure to explore every aspect of the game, experiment with different hacking techniques, and enjoy the improved gameplay! Like, comment, and subscribe for more Watch Dogs 2 insights!