What could've been another routine poker simulation is livened up by terrific characters and suitable unlockables.
Though the poker action doesn't really change over the course of Poker Night 2, it's the camaraderie that keeps its energy nice and upbeat. The interaction between characters is nothing short of golden, whether Sam and Ash are comparing firearms (sorry, Sam, nothing beats a boomstick) or Claptrap relentlessly hits on GLADoS, only to be rejected by her in the worst, most hilarious way possible.
Part of this credit goes to the voice actors. David Eddings continues to be pure gold as Claptrap, while Patrick Warburton is at his best as Brock. And, as always, Ellen McLain is right on cue as GLADoS, right down to insulting you as you win a big hand. (Because why should she pay you compliments?) We are a bit disappointed that Bruce Campbell couldn't voice Ash, but his fill-in is just fine. Sam and Max are a hoot to listen to as well.
In addition to the hours of dialogue within the game (it tends to repeat later on, but it's really not that bothersome), Poker Night 2 comes with unlockables galore. On the Xbox 360 version, which is the one we're reviewing, you can earn new skins, decks and other goodies for your poker play, using tokens that you pick up through each match. It's funny playing on a Venture Bros. table with a Borderlands deck, but being able to mix and match keeps things interesting. You'll also earn exclusive skins for the Borderlands 2 game, while over on the PS3, you'll unlock some awesome premium themes. (Steam owners get the best deal of all, with Team Fortress 2 goodies.)
