GEARS OF WAR 2 Xbox 360 nine / ten

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In a style similar to the film industry, videogames frequently make grim predictions of the future. In Gears of War 2, humans are at war with the Locust horde, an evil race of aliens intent on driving humans into extinction. Two years after the release of groundbreaking original, Gears 2 sets out to do everything the first didn't. Intent on making the experience fresh and enjoyable for diehard fans of the original, as well as converting series haters, Gears of War 2 hits its mark, every single time.

Times are desperate for humans. Despite successfully detonating a powerful bomb on Locust turf, the enemy has returned and is more vicious and determined than ever. Utilising their new found ability to sink entire cities in the blink of an eye, the Locust are devastating the humans who must make one final push to defeat the horde. As Marcus Fenix, you'll lead an elite team of soldiers deep into the Locust's subterranean lair in an attempt to put an end to the war. While it's still crammed full of cheesy dialogue and cliches, Gears 2's story is competent and enjoyable. There is a surprisingly personal twist to the game's story with one of your squad mates searching for his missing wife, adding a bit more depth to an otherwise shallow narrative. The story can be enjoyed as a tale of hardship and war, but it can still be summed up as ̉there are these aliens who need to die."

One major improvement on the original is the variety of environments. The story takes you to an assortment of locales, ranging from a woodland with an array of foliage to an underground palace complete with astounding architecture. As well as looking different, the levels feel more open and expansive, giving you more options when engaging in a frantic fire-fight with enemies. All this, of course, is made more enjoyable by the gorgeous visuals, with environments and characters looking spec-tacular. None of this matters, however, if the gameplay isn't up to scratch. In 2006, Gears of War impressed critics and gamers alike with its perfectly implemented cover system and gritty, gore-soaked combat. The same is true of the sequel, which has retained the feel and control of the original, as well as including some much appreciated extras like new weapons, enemies and awe-inspiring set pieces.

While on the surface it appears to be a brainless shooter, there is real depth to the gameplay (particularly in the game's plethora of multi- player and co-op modes) and you will need to have your wits about you to survive. The combat is incredibly gratifying, rewarding your patience and precision with a meaty headshot or execution kill that will satisfy any gamer's lust for Locust blood. This is complimented by the fact that the Locust are very easy to hate and some of the finest villains in the game industry.

War is hell, but Gears 2 is a little slice of paradise.

Barry Murphy
www.gearsofwar.xbox.com

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