Cert: 18+
Platform: Xbox 360
Genre: First Person Shooter
The Gears are back. This hyped sequel sees Marcus Fenix trying to save the world (again) alongside helping fellow soldier Dominic Santiago find his missing wife.
Cliff Bleszinski and co have delivered a single-player experience that rivals anything in a Jerry Bruckheimer movie. It's over the top, violent and tremendously enjoyable - one level even takes places inside a giant worm. The game really comes into its own when you play with a partner. There are lots of occasions when you'll have to work together covering each other, distracting gun turrets and opening doors.
After you've shot your way through the fifteen hour or so campaign, multiplayer awaits. Unfortunately, this is the game's Achilles' heal. The host has a distinct advantage and the shotgun feels overpowered. The waiting times for a match are longer than Call of Duty and Halo. Similarly, the ranking system is not that well implemented.
Niggles aside, Gears II is worth the price of admission for the hoarde mode. This co-op mode pits your team against waves of enemies and if you can defeat all 50, you unlock the coveted Hoard the Horde achievement.
Did I mention there's eleven unique - but equally violent - execution moves?
Epic stuff.
Rent or Buy: Buy
Graphics: 5/5
Game Play: 4/5
Replay Value: 4/5
Overall: 4/5
Review by: Bryan Collins
