Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 Review

The situation improves only slightly thanks to the inclusion of the new Spec Ops mode that allows instant action and more challenges, which the player may take on either alone or with a friend. It gets really enjoyable when experiencing some of the missions with other players. The only trouble is that the content feels poor in this regard. We simply expected more (more maps for starters), but Infinity Ward and Activision obviously mean to fill this gap with future DLC releases (Lord, give me strength!). Okay, there's no question that the developers made efforts to improve upon the experience-based multiplayer mode. The modes include Free-For-All, Search & Destroy, Demolition, Domination, Team Deathmatch and Capture The Flag. There's an increased number of customization options incorporated this time around. Customizable killstreaks are available, as well as the ever-popular perks (the Commando perk being my all-time favorite). It's also great to use all of the new weapons and upgrades.

Let's take 'em out one by one.

Hm, not the DC I remember.

The multiplayer is as fun as ever, which makes certain oversights even more difficult to bear. As many PC gamers continue to rebel, we also question the developer's decision to drop dedicated server support. Excluding server support was a risky move and, as expected, it ended up being the most hated aspect of the PC edition of MW 2. To makes things worse, the max number of players was reduced from 64 to 18. In addition, there is no support for user-created mods and maps. For a game that has all the fundamentals for an addictive multiplayer mode, such drawbacks are unforgivable.

Modern Warfare 2 still delivers what is expected of it. The stunning visuals and superb audio make this an astounding cinematic experience. All things considered, the first-rate production values, challenging missions and compelling atmosphere should keep you hooked (though for a brief period). Direction was taken to the next level, with each mission being more exciting and more immersive than the previous one. The most obvious problem with the main campaign is that it's too darn short, hardly worth the game's retail price. Meanwhile, the PC community will continue to complain about the lack of support for dedicated servers and custom content (and rightfully so I might add). Granted, the Spec Ops is a great addition, although it just seems thin in terms of content.

Our advice is to stick with the Xbox 360 version, which we've also played and found it to be generally a more rewarding product than the PC edition.