The game does lack some of the neat sound design from the first but the the main feeling I got as I played (past the awful first few levels) was of Isaac's increasing desperation. Indeed, through the latter parts of the game being pursued by something I hadn't a hope of killing, I just ran. Shooting only when cornered and absolutely necessary. Unlike some friends I also never replayed a part because I thought I "hadn't done well enough", only ever returning to the last checkpoint when killed. This meant I was often short of ammo/health etc (especially after one of those beserk "sh!t" they're all over me!" sessions) and that's when the fear sets in. It's the only way to play a game like this, cruise through maxed out on everything and you're never going to get it.
Limping through a corridor having just taken a helluva beating, hoping nothing will leap out of you, 20% health and only 3 shots left in your plasma cutter FTW.
Limping through a corridor having just taken a helluva beating, hoping nothing will leap out of you, 20% health and only 3 shots left in your plasma cutter FTW.