ZOE 2 feels as if it is struggling to come out of its shell in the beginning, offering only glimpses of what it could become later on. However, at one point it just explodes out of its shell and ZOE's potential is finally fully realized.
Pros: The number of already fantastic mech designs from the predecessor is bolstered by some great new ones, great story and characters, both atmospheric and energizing types of music are superb, combat is much improved over its predecessor, varied mission designs and enemy types mean that more types of subweapons are useful and that the game is more fun and interesting to play, superb aesthetics, good mix of in-game and anime cutscenes, second part of the game is just awesome, New game+, mechanically great boss battles...
Cons: ...but those usually last for a bit too long,camera in tight spaces is abysmal and much of the game's opening third is fought in tight spaces,subweapon's system should've been a wheel,first third of the game is ''merely'' OK

Zone Of The Enders: The 2nd Runner is a futuristic mecha action game that emphasizes on mid-air combat.

It improved upon the predecessor in many ways. The characters are now even more interesting than before and the mission design offers remarkable gameplay variety (escort through train tunnel, survive in army battlefield, take out enormous battleships, carefully maneuver through minefield).

The combat is better as well, with even more challenging enemies that now come with group leaders which results in great combat dynamic and adds a bit more tactic.

Also, the graphics are more beautiful, including a brilliant combination of 3D visuals and gorgeous 2D anime, the voice acting is splendid and the music is, simply put, near-perfection.

Without a doubt Kojima's best work!! The game is just beautiful, the gameplay is excellent and the music is marvelous.
Simply cannot wait for a sequel!!