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SOCOM 3: US Navy Seals Review: Should You Buy?

SOCOM Coverart

SOCOM 3: US Navy Seals Review: Should You Buy?

SOCOM 3: US Navy Seals is a tactical shooter game published by Sony Computer Entertainment. This game was created for PlayStation 2 in 2005 and is the sequel to SOCOM II U.S Navy SEALS. Just about everything has been tweaked to bring a better overall game. The menus are easier to access. There is more flexibility with the weapons thanks to peripherals that allow for hundreds of combinations. The AI has been given a stern talking to and they’ve smartened up considerably. The maps are huge, and players can travel around using jeeps, tanks, trucks, hummers and boats. Last but not least is the excellent online experience complete with new modes. There’s nothing not to like about this game. It’s definitely a contender for Game of the Year – at least the online portion.

Storyline in SOCOM 3: US Navy Seals Could Use More

SOCOM 3 US Navy Seals
Missions and storylines are lackluster but have great animations.

The single-player campaign is no slouch either. The storyline is still not interactive in that players are forced to watch cutscenes and receive mission briefings, but it’s done so well that players will want to see more. The missions are really nothing new but the way they are presented, with great animation, pacing and voice acting, gamers become totally immersed in their role. One of the best upgrades to the single-player campaign is the implementation of a checkpoint system. No more unnecessary frustration. There are about four checkpoints per mission, well-spaced and well-paced. 

Possibilities in SOCOM 3: US Navy Seals

SOCOM US Navy screenshot
Various possibilities await in SOCOM II U.S Navy SEALS.

The gameplay varies to include different degrees of stealth and full-blown battles in just one mission. Vehicles can be put to good use since players can not only use them to get to different points on the map but can also fire from them using weapons or the installed turrets. On land or on sea players can give the enemies hell while on the move. They handle well and are relatively easy to drive. The tank is cumbersome but extremely powerful. It will take a small army of enemies to destroy it. If players can’t aim the cannon fast enough, they can just run them over. The hummer is my favorite as it acts like a cross between a jeep and a tank. It’s maneuverable and heavily armored.

Convoys and Controls

SOCOM Navy seals screenshot
Never miss an enemy with advanced technology.

Convoy and Control are two of the new modes. In Convoy a group of terrorists attempt to drive a small convoy to a pickup location close to the SEAL’s outpost. Their goal is to rendezvous with their drop off, load up their illegal contraband and get the hell out of the territory without alerting the SEALs – or protecting the truck by any means possible if it comes under attack. Control is a race that pits two teams against each other to see which one can plant all of its markers on the map. Points are chosen and cannot be changed until the game is over.

Final Words

Not all of the game is a looker. The developers decided to make the un-pretty regions even more unpretty such as the wastelands and put more eye candy where it belongs such as in the city streets. The characters and vehicles display great detail and animation. Particle effects such as sand, dust, smoke and fog look and respond naturally. The sound effects are convincing with plenty of punchy mids and rumbling bass. It sounds like you’re in a war zone and not an arcade. This game is worth checking out and at the very least a weekend rental.

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