The second CSI computer game is looking even better than the first, according to online gaming sites.

Previews of CSI: Dark Motives, which is scheduled to be released on March 23, 2004, have commended the designers for improving many aspects of gameplay which let the first CSI game down. "It is apparent that 369 Interactive paid attention to fan feedback in developing this title," said WorthPlaying.com. "You are introduced to a more customizable gaming experience in that you can adjust the difficulty settings to allow all, some or none of the assist features, which range from active hotspots to evidence-specific questions automatically becoming available."

The site said the "crowning achievement" of CSI: Dark Motives was the voice acting, with the performances of the regular CSI cast members rated "top notch". "The script is well-written, generally true to character, and provides a few moments of comic relief, although it's a bit more outlandish than network television would ever allow," was WorthPlaying.com's verdict.

Over at Game Spot, Jason Ocampo said Dark Motives provides more of a challenge than the first computer outing for the series. "For instance, in the first game, your lab partners practically walked you through the entire investigation, thus leaving little thinking for you to do. In Dark Motives your partners will give you some general guidelines, and they'll let you know when you're onto something. However, you'll be left to do more of the detective work on your own, though you'll still have the option of consulting them for additional advice."

Randy Sluganski at JustAdventure.com agreed with this analysis. He said that the game has three levels, Beginner, Expert and Advanced, with Advanced set to pose a challenge to even the most accomplished gamer. "We played both episodes on the Beginner and Advanced Levels and while they play the same, you definitely need to strain your grey cells on the Advanced Level. If the entire game follows suit, then concerns about the game being too easy should be resolved."

And what about aesthetic aspects of the game, such as the visuals? Kyle Ackerman at Frictionless Insight said there's certainly nothing to worry about in that department. "Unlike the first game, there will be a dramatic visual set-up of the crime scene when you first arrive, complete with interesting camera angles and music inspired by the show. More and smoother camera cuts better evoke the feeling of the television series. There's also more vivid material, such as a suitably anatomical close up of a dead homeless man's internal organs in the first case the player takes on."

CSI: Dark Motives will be released on March 23. Amazon.com has the game available for $24.99, 17% off the recommended purchase price. The online retailer also has the first CSI computer game available for purchase.

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