Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2

What’s the Story?

In TOM CLANCY'S GHOST RECON ADVANCED WARFIGHTER 2, or simply GRAW 2, rebel fighters in Mexico have overthrown much of the Mexican government and now are threatening the United States with possible nuclear weapons. It's time to call in the ghost team -- a highly advanced but secret special forces squad. The player leads the protagonist, Captain Scott Mitchell, through missions on both sides of the border, fighting with rebels, mercenaries, and a host of other baddies. Most of the game is pure tactical first-person action. A wide assortment of weapons and tools are available, and in several missions, the player chooses three additional teammates to help out. Occasionally, the player gets to make use of armored vehicles, helicopters, and unmanned aerial vehicles, which adds variety to the game.

Is It Any Good?

As tactical shooters go, GRAW 2 is one of the best available right now. Stunning graphics, outstanding multiplayer options, and a team-control system that works smoothly all come together in a well-designed and very playable sequel.

GRAW 2 also does a decent job of drawing a line between portraying the realism of the battlefield without going to the extreme of using blood and guts as a shock factor. Blood is visible, but not spurting everywhere. Body parts don't go flying off after an explosion. And, generally speaking, the game is fast enough paced that players don't spend a lot of time looking at the carnage they have caused. Overall, GRAW 2 is an outstanding first-person shooter game for teens and above.