Blues And Bullets Ep 2 (PC) Review

Shaking the Hive

Blues and Bullets takes us to an alternative reality where Al Capone is released from prison, and hires none other than the retired Elliot Ness when he learns his granddaughter has gone missing. That is the basic concept of Blues and Bullets. Ness, Retired. Capone, old, and in ill health.

Episode one leaves us with a mysterious submarine appearing from the depths of the ocean. We learn of a Russian influence to things, as things take a much more active, and ‘trigger happy’ approach. Episode two still offers the detective work of Ness, sorting through the clues, though not as many this time around.With Ness and Capone side-by-side, quite a shootout ensues. Take part in the classic duck and cover, before popping headshots before being able to move forward.

We watch as Capone interrogates the Russian, bearing witness to just a taste of what got Capone his reputation.  This is just a taste of the action you will see here.

As for the exploring, Blues and Bullets continues along its darker path. Once we board the submarine, we are met by scenes ranging from children’s shampoo bottles, to used cages. We learn that the Russian is involved in human trafficking, both children and adult. Bloodied chainsaw and severed body parts are testament of what can happen when things don’t go the ‘right’ way. As in the classic style, we get just a few answers, and even more questions. Add to that, one of the most mysterious characters weve seen in a while. No name, no story. Just a large, hulking figure that you can’t shake easily.

We learn the back story of our companion Milton, and his introduction to Alphonse Capone. We are treated to some of Ness’ history mixed in with his present day actions. Showing up at Capone’s bunker, and not taking no for an answer. Now, this being a ‘choose your own adventure’ style game when it comes to decisions, I saw no point in being nice. We broke our way in, shooting down everyone in my way, before coming face-to-face with Capone. Once there, I had the opportunity to shoot up Capone’s prized piano.

Final Thoughts

While the title is Shaking the Hive, I would have thought a more appropriate title may be Lighting the Match. While episode one laid the groundwork for quite an intriguing tale, Shaking the Hive is full of explosions, gunfire and blazes. Two episodes down, and three to go. I would be lying if said I wasn’t curious as to where this story will find itself.

If you, like me, find this dark spiral storytelling is intriguing, then you should join me in experiencing this for yourself. Blues and Bullets is available on Steam for $19.99.