Killzone 2 (PlayStation 3)

The PlayStation 3 finally has its blockbuster video game in the form of first-person shooter KILLZONE 2, a gorgeous, polished adventure that sits among the best in its genre. You play the role of Sergeant Sevchenko, known to his peers as "Sev." As a member of the Interplanetary Strategic Alliance, Sev and his team fight against the warmongering Helghast on their home planet of Helghan.

The game plays like any typical first-person shooter. Players come equipped with a variety of firearms in their arsenal, such as pistols, assault rifles, and rocket launchers. Part of your character's strategy also involves hopping in and out of cover, methodically picking apart opposing forces, and advancing to the next stage of combat. The core component to Killzone 2 is the deep multiplayer options. Up to 32 players can join a team-based match involving a myriad of battle types. Battles range from a deathmatch mode to search and destroy. As your skills improve, you earn experience points which elevate your military rank and unlock new weapons. Soldiers are also decorated with special ribbons earned for accomplishing specific feats.

Killzone 2 is perhaps the best looking first-person shooter available. Environmental effects such as swirling winds look amazing. Computer-controlled enemies are quite intelligent. They will carefully hop in and out of cover, or toss grenades to flush you out of a safe spot. The single-player adventure is great at slowly building intensity, resulting in an exhilarating and incredibly satisfying finish.

The multiplayer mode is really where this game shines. The ability to gain experience and earn promotions and warzone ribbons give players plenty of incentive to return to the action. It also provides an interesting experience as well. Each match consists of changing challenges. For example, the first couple minutes might involve defending your position. Once there's a winner, the challenge might switch to finding intel and returning it to base, or a team deathmatch. The multiplayer is excellent at keeping players on their toes. It's also one of the many reasons Killzone 2 is a must-own game for the PlayStation 3.