I would have to disagree, there are a couple of references to the previous games that they shine a damn spotlight on and a few minor references you probably wouldn't notice if you're not a hardcore fan, but I certainly wouldn't call them excessive.Zhukov said:You'll miss the references and callbacks (of which there are a bloody excessive amount)
Anyway, yes OP, you'll understand it and it's awesome. It's not full to the brim with philosophy like the original, but it did replicate the originals almost perfectly absorbing atmosphere.
Plus it allows you to knock guards out, line them up, and then murder them, execution style. The sound in phenomenal as well.
I think it's time for another playthrough.