BY HITTING FAST-FORWARD ON THE Call D of Duty franchise by 60 years, devel Doper Infinity Ward is taking a chance. COD4's subtitle "Modern Warfare" implies a lot in this day and age, and applying the series' famed qualities to a theater of war that's far less fictional than some might be comfortable with could easily go wrong. It was one thing when games based on the Vietnam War briefly appeared the debate then was based on a matter of timeliness ("Is it too soon?") and the controversial nature of that conflict. Imagine then, the walking-on-egg shells approach a developer must take to base a game on a highly controversial war that's happening right now.

Bad writing and shallow, stereotypical characters could cheapen the experience, not just for the general game-playing public, but particularly for those whose lives are currently affected by the ongoing situation in the Middle East. It's an already delicate issue being addressed in a medium best known for "dude, blow something up." As any COD fan can tell you, the people at Infinity Ward are skilled storytellers and masterful scenarists. It's because of this that Modern Warfare finds itself in the company of movies like Black Hawk Down.

The COD4's multiplayer is treated with equal craftsmanship. From levels 1 through 55, there are various rewards to unlock: new weapons, attachments, camouflages, and "perks." These perks are extra abilities you can grant your character certain advantages. With proven mechanics, brilliant visuals and sound, a satisfying campaign, and robust multiplayer, CO D4 is one of the best FPS packages of the year no small feat, considering the competition.

Name: 346546.jpg Views: 52 Size: 38.8 KB