DW1 is better by a country mile.

I don't agree DW1 is far better. It is better balanced but that's because you have fewer options. DW2 is more fun but still needs more balance. If you love tower defense you should have both games, no question. If you are a casual td player who wants things simpler... maybe just go with DW1 for now and if you like it buy DW2 later on...

If you're looking for carnage and playstyle options DW2 is better. If you're looking for challenge and chasing achievements then DW1 is better (for now).

Originally posted by Sylxeria:

Both are great games in different ways. As mentioned already, DW1 was better balanced because it was more straight forward and simpler (Not in a bad way mind you, it just didn't have the tons of additions DW2 did)

Unfortunately, it's those tons of additions that ended up making DW2 a hit-and-miss for some people. I can't count myself among those who have "broken" the game and get 2+ billion exp per map and have trap levels in the hundreds, so I have mostly positive things to say about the game so far. It's made plenty of steps forward with the balancing, and with a simple stat tracker in place now (What traps are being used, etc) that should help greatly moving forward.

If you could ONLY get one for now, and had to put the other off until later.... Ask yourself the question Rainbow mentions in their post: Are you looking for flexible and vast playstyle options, or a difficult challenge? If the latter, pick up DW1 first and DW2 later. If the former, then the reverse. They're both great to get once you can though no question there!

Ok, well in that case I'll pick up DW1. Thanks guys :)

Well, I am 15 hours in, the balancing is awesome so far for 2. I guess there is certain ways you may break the game, but at least it is perfect in the beginning.

2 is much accessible than 1. For example, I am horrible at video games, but I can still enjoy 2 (through more grinding), which is not possible with 1.

what are the new turret in the sequel?

Going from memory I think the 6 new traps are Teleporter, Axe, Rocket, Shockwave, Bola, Chakram... is that right? I think so. I haven't played 1 in a while...

I didnt like DW1 near as much as others. I truly have no idea why people like it so much. It's almost as if they've never owned a smart phone, or tablet. (Pro Tip: there are MANY free TD games for those devices much better. MUCH. Kingdom Rush in all it's versions comes to mind". But I bought DW1 a week or so ago on sale. for 2 bucks. Good deal. I'd do it again. It is DEFINITELY WORTH 2 bucks. In fact, it was SO WORTH 2 bucks. That when I got a notice that there is a DW2 I checked out the store page. "hmmm 11 bucks. I guess I'll give it a shot. I read about 50 reviews and see the pros and cons". Couldn't be happier, I truly believe this might be my new favorite TD game.
So, keep in mind, many people will love the old flavor and memory of DW 1, but for someone new to the franchise it's not cut and dry. On a scale of 1-10.... I'd rate dw1 a 5. Maybe a 6, Basically because there is no micro transactions, and it is a decent "size" for 2 bucks. but with DW2, I'd rate it a solid 9. I only rate two games ever as 10, so a 9 is pretty frikkin good.

Yes, it is like diablo had a TD baby. But to me that's a good thing. I was SUPER TIRED of the dozens of other TD games, where you have to grind your way up to high level (either with character or heroes, etc...) then do a near perfect strategy just to pass the level. Oh, then you get to do it again on expert/maniac/veteran mode. etc. blah blah blah)

This game I'm leve 43. With a casual amount of time invested, I am in NO WAY rushing, or power leveling. I'm trying different maps over and over. checking out new traps, new paths etc. I was liking that until I hit about level 10 or so, then discovered DROPS. OMG!!!!!!! you mean i can get an item to double my life, and help me find MORE items?. And, you can find a specific item that gives 3 buffs for the SAME TRAP. (I'm sure there's more, but I've not played that long). Suffice to say, the game gives you levels, and loot quickly. This makes the game as easy or as hard as you want. Want to make it difficult? Don't replay maps, and don't use items. (of course, don't watch youtubes laying out the traps for you either, man up!!!!!!) lol. Want it easy? Grind a map a couple times, then add a few runes, do it again, then try it with 7 runes. then 9. Make sure you have items to help you out....

All in all, I find this game way more fun than DW1. But i'd recommend them both. It's just that DW2 comes HIGHLY recommended for TD fans

Lastly, I'm sure you already made your purchase decision, But for any NEW people reading this thread. If you want Difficult, I would not choose DW1. Sure, it's harder than dw2, but it is in NO WAY "perfectly balanced", or "difficult". It's super linear, and once you know the pathing, it gets old, fast. There are many other TD games out there, some that are "free" that are more balanced, and more difficult than DW1.