This game is a tension builder. By this I mean that it's not wall-to-wall gunfire and explosions, but requires you to scout out your targets before charging in. This inevitably means periods where the guns aren't blazing. Personally, I think this is a refreshing change from your average shooter.
The graphics are slick, as is the gameplay and AI. The only thing I didn't enjoy about this otherwise fantastic game is that you have malaria (you heard me, malaria) throughout, and it often shows it's symptoms at the most inopportune times. Although I never played the first Far Cry, I've heard that you had some kind of super powers in it. Not in Far Cry 2 - just malaria.
The behaviour of fire in the game is well executed, and there's a lot to be said for burning out your enemies from their cover using molotovs or the flamethrower. The landscapes are quite beautiful at times, to the point where you will just want to admire a sunset (before you suddenly remember that you're surrounded by enemies that is).
There's an excellent selection of weaponry available to suit all styles of gameplay. I personally prefer to snipe from a distance, cause as much havoc as possible with explosives, and pick off the survivors with an uzi - but you could just as easily choose to charge in AK47 a-blazing (although your health bar not might thank you for your carelessness!).
If you're looking for an all-out war game, this isn't the title for you. If you are interested in a novel variation on the theme, this is just the ticket. A vast free-roaming African wilderness awaits the discerning player with an attention span of more than 15 seconds. After playing this game for a while you'll soon start to associate the gentle thumping of a djembe drum with imminent danger - not a feat that many games can lay claim to!