Watch Dogs 2, developed by Ubisoft Montreal and published by Ubisoft, is an open-world action-adventure game that expands on the hacking-focused gameplay of the original Watch Dogs. Set in a colorful and lively version of San Francisco Bay Area, the game adopts a lighter tone while delivering sharper social commentary on technology, data privacy and surveillance culture.
 

Players take on the role of Marcus Holloway, a gifted young hacker wrongfully profiled by the city’s advanced surveillance system. After joining the hacker collective DedSec, Marcus sets out to dismantle ctOS 2.0, a centralized operating system that controls the city’s infrastructure and harvests personal data for corporate gain.
 

Gameplay revolves around creative hacking. Nearly every mission can be completed using stealth, gadgets, environmental manipulation or direct combat. Players can hack traffic lights, security cameras, drones, robots, vehicles and electronic devices to create chaos, solve puzzles or bypass enemies without firing a single bullet.
 

The open world is dense and interactive, featuring diverse districts, landmarks, side activities and NPC behaviors. Marcus can parkour across rooftops, deploy remote-controlled gadgets like the RC Jumper and Quadcopter Drone and upgrade hacking abilities through a skill system.
 

Combat is optional and often discouraged, emphasizing non-lethal tools and tactical planning. The game also includes seamless co-op multiplayer, competitive hacking invasions and shared open-world activities that allow players to interact without interrupting the single-player experience.
 

With its stylish presentation, dynamic soundtrack, strong customization options and improved hacking mechanics, Watch Dogs 2 is widely regarded as the best entry in the Watch Dogs series and a standout modern open-world experience.