System: PS3, X360, PC
Dev: Ubisoft Montreal
Pub: Ubisoft
Release: June 26, 2007
Players: 1-16 (online)
ESRB Rating: Mature
Review by Jonathan Marx

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Review Rating Legend
1.0 - 1.9 = Avoid
2.0 - 2.4 = Poor
2.5 - 2.9 = Average
3.0 - 3.4 = Fair
3.5 - 3.9 = Good
4.0 - 4.4 = Great
4.5 - 4.9 = Must Buy
5.0 = The Best

If you already own the game for your Xbox 360, do not buy this game. Don't expect a major overhaul because I don't think they overhauled anything. Well that's not true, but it is essentially the same game. There are 10 new multiplayer maps that aren't available for the 360 or the PC versions, there are also two new game modes. This makes multiplayer on the PS3 phenomenal, except for the fact that there are many more PC and 360 owners so that the level of competition and the sheer amount of players on the other systems, I feel, give them the edge. Another difference is the use of the snake cam. You will use motion controls in the Sixaxis controller to control the camera. This is not particularly substantive; it's really more of a gimmick. Having said all that, the PS3 version is the best version of the game because of the additional content. If enough PS3 owners buy the game and get online, then it truly will be the best iteration.

Continuing in that light, online play is a blast. There are an amazing amount of maps and match types from which to choose. There are three modes of play including the Playstation Network, split screen with friends, and a local area connection (LAN). You will be allowed to create your own online persona through P.E.C. or Persistent Elite Creation. This is a system of character creation, outfitting and award gathering. You will be able to create a unique character online, acquire XP points, military ranks, and will be able to unlock equipment. Outfitting your character allows you to customize a kit to your playing style. Choose between armament packages, body armor, and clothing styles. These are fantastic features that make this online shooter truly one-of-a-kind. This will definitely be one of your favorite games. In addition to the P.E.C. system, it is also worth mentioning the match types included. They are varied and well-thought out so you are sure to find a few match types that suit you the best. You can select between Attack and Defend where you control a strategic location and either try to wrest control from the defenders or protect it from an invading force. There is also Team Sharpshooter which just sees how many kills your team can rack up. Team Survival is just that, the team with the last man standing wins. Retrieval matches are a form of capture the flag. Survival matches pit all against all with no respawns allowed. Sharpshooter is also a free for all, but it allows respawns in order to see who is the most lethal. The Assassination match has an escorting team try and protect a high-value target while the other team tries to eliminate the asset. Finally, you can enter Total Conquest matches that have your team vying for control over three mobile radar installations. The team that is most dominant wins. These modes are all really fun, well-executed, and familiar to fans of the genre. You will also be able to play cooperatively through split screen in your own living room. This is a neat option because it allows you to beat the game with buddies, instead of relying on the A.I. squad of single-player mode.

I was a bit disappointed with the graphics of the game. I mean, it looks good; don't get me wrong. The use of the Unreal engine is good, but everything looks a pretty fuzzy, like an episode of Moonlighting. I swear I shot Cybil Sheppard several times. All joking aside, the game looks good, but not great. Compared to the level of realism found in the other aspects of the title, this is where they faltered and cut corners. If you were expecting incredible graphical advancements on the PS3, you will be disappointed. The graphics were left alone, and that was a mistake from the consumer's point of view. I can only hope the amount of money saved in porting the title was worth it.

The sounds in the game are absolutely outstanding. The guns sound real. The death screams are spot on, and the voiceover work is tremendous. Overheard conversations are hilarious. I speak Spanish, and the opening levels are filled with regional-specific comments that enhance the overall gameplay. It really makes you feel like you're battling it out with baddies in a rough and tumble Mexican border town. Some of the English comments made later in the game are also really funny and lively. However, I'll leave those unsaid and make you purchase the title. It's worth it.

The controls are flawless. The Sixaxis is a great controller, and it will take you no time to master the muscle memory. Whether you're simply shooting it out with the terrorists, or giving orders to your squad, the controls won't let you down. You will quickly advance through the levels if you are sufficiently cunning. You will have no control excuses to fall back on because they just work right.

In conclusion, this is a great game. It is the kind of game that the PS3 has needed. The addition of a bulked up multiplayer on the PS3 makes this the best version of the game you can buy. The controls and the sound effects are perfect. Unfortunately, the graphics are the weak link. Ubisoft didn't take the time to revamp the look for the high-powered PS3, and that was a mistake from the consumer's perspective. If you already own the game on the PC or the 360, this is not a must buy. This is due primarily to the non-revamped graphics. However, if you like shooters and using your noggin, this game cannot be passed up. It is genuinely a good game. It exudes quality and it will greatly increase the amount of hours you will log on your PS3.

By Jonathan Marx
CCC Freelance Writer

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