A Must-Own for Xbox360 Gamers
Gameplay: As expected with any sequel, EPIC Games refined the "Stop & Pop" gameplay that defines the Gears of War franchise. I can't put a finger on it, but it's suffice to say everything that made Gears1 so enjoyable is back and better thanever in Gears2.
Co-op Campaign: Co-op is really the only way to play through a Gears of War campaign. The campaign itself is fun and very action packed. But it's far more immensly fun when played together with a friend.
Graphics: Simply put; Gears2 sets the graphical benchmark for the Xbox360. This is the game to show off to your friends.
Audio Design: Gears2 is the kind of game that makes you happy that you bought a 5.1 surround sound system.
Party System: I've said it before and I'll say it again; Every Xbox360 (and PS3) multiplayer game needs to have a Party System for it's online component. EPIC Games wisely includes this feature and the game is better for it.
Horde Mode: If you like co-op games (like myself) where you have a group of human players against CPU opponents, then you'll love Horde Mode. I can see myself playing this mode until Gears3 comes out. Yes, that good.
Weapons: While there are only a few new weapons to use in Gears2, all of them are fun to use. Chainsawing fools in half never gets old, and the new Mulcher (gatling gun) is a joy to use.I also enjoyed the Boom Shield, which allows you to get close to enemies and melee them.
Story: Yeah, I did enjoy the story....maybe because my expectations were low. Regardless though, I'd put Gears2's story on par with most action movies. Very enjoyable.
Save System: Checkpoints are plentiful and perfectly spread out through the campaign levels.If youhave limited game-time (likemyself), you can easily play Gears2 for about 15min and get to checkpoint (or two) and feel you've progressed the story.
HATED
Matchmaking: It takes way too long to find a game on occasion. Sometimes you can find a game in about 1min, other times you'll be waiting for up to 10min. Matchmaking for Horde Mode is a breeze though.
Lack of 4 Player Co-op: Seemslike it would be an obvious feature since you have 4 main COG soldiers in Marcus, Dom, Baird, and Cole. Hopefully this feature will be in Gears3.
CONCLUSION
If you enjoyed Gears1, then you'll enjoy Gears2. EPIC Games improved in every single area that made the original such an awesome game. The graphics are better. The controls have been refined. There are new (and fun) weapons to use. Co-op is even better, espeically since AI teammates can now revive you. Horde Mode pits you and up to 4 other teammates against a never-ending wave of Locust to shoot. There are new multiplayer modes to enjoy. And the player cap has been upped to 10 players.
Every Xbox360 gamer who enjoys shooters should give Gears2 a try. Make sure you have a buddy to play co-op with and you'll love this game.