If you want it lets go!
Developer Swordfish has borrowed elements from other shooters, the cover mechanic from Gears of War, the scoring system from The Club. Bullet time from Max Payne. Fiddy can choose a partner from G Unit (Young Buck is replaced by DJ Whoo Kid) to help with combat and navigate environmental obstacles. This aspect is remarkably similar to Resident Evil 5, and works just as effectively. The gratuitously over the top action is structured well by its scoring system. It awards points for chaining kills, use of cover, insults etc, adding layers to the core gameplay. Timed sections unlock ammo such as incendiary and explosive rounds. A typical example would be: kill all reinforcements within 30 seconds. Failure simply causes the game to continue, minus the bonus, which ensures the action is constant and relentless throughout. Counter kills are well presented, and the weapon selection is also complete, with a large and varied choice, accessible via payphones. Hidden extras also increase longevity. Posters and targets are hidden on every level, in addition to loot.
Presentation is also impressive, with some nicely rendered war torn cities for Fiddy to battle through. Level design is solid, presented as sheer urban warfare, the hood away from the hood. Standout sections include an abandoned shopping mall that's now a heroin factory. A building site surrounding by a busy highway. And a theatre literally burning to the ground. Fans will love the music player, featuring current, classic and exclusive tracks. Play lists can be fully customised too, so annoying tunes (P.I.M.P, Disco Inferno) can be permanently erased. Favourites (What Up Gangsta, Fire) can be selected multiple times. Voice acting is of a very high standard too.
The appeal of Blood on the Sand is inevitably determined by 50 Cent, which shouldn't be the case. The cast have more character than most shooters on the market, and it isn't as self-indulgent as it appears. Actually it's a very solid shooter, regardless of your music tastes.