Crackdown 2 (Xbox 360)

The sequel to the blockbuster 2007 game, CRACKDOWN 2 delivers an action-heavy open-world experience for Xbox 360 owners in which players assume the role of an Agent -- a super-cop, of sorts -- on the dangerous streets of Pacific City, ten years after the first game. You’re tasked with controlling (read: destroying) two warring factions, the Freaks (mutants) and The Cell (terrorists). As a sandbox game, you can take on any objective in any order you like (and explore the city to find the best approach to the task), collect orbs and unlock more powerful weapons, vehicles and abilities (such as jumping from rooftop to rooftop or throwing huge objects). As with the first game there’s a heavy online focus, and this sequel boasts many cooperative and competitive modes from which to choose.

Yes, it’s a solid “B”-grade game, but fans of the original Crackdown should be aware that developer Ruffian Games didn’t add too much to this sequel. Except for some new multiplayer options and other minor tweaks, it really is just more of the same. Those expecting a new direction for the series might be disappointed. Also, the missions become repetitive after a short while.

That being said, the game’s over-the-top gameplay, emphasis on verticality, tight control, and colorful art style all help make this action game a good pick – especially for those who prefer taking to the streets alongside (or against) friends online. Crackdown 2 won’t be one of the best games of 2010, but it delivers a lot of gratifying gameplay for mature Xbox 360 owners.

Online interaction: The game supports a number of multiplayer game modes -- including four-player co-op and 16-player competitive play. Gamers with a headset microphone can chat during gameplay if desired, which means it's possible to hear profanity spoken by others as well as communicate with strangers in online matches.