First let me say this is a good game, solid in every way for what it was and where they seemed headed with this game
This game is a FPS and liner but with some RPG elements (barter and exploration) these may be limited compared to true RPG games but still elements of this title. The weapons can feel under powered, but ammo type, distance and placement all affected the success of the kills throughout the game. You can switch to the best ammo if you feel you need that extra punch. You don't need to buy every gun they sell. But a second play through could always allow you to change you strategy with a different weapon.
If you look in all the stations and side passages available along your path you can load up on ammo, both substandard and prewar. I could afford anything I wanted on my first play through. Most people that have played RPG games should be down with this program. The feeling of hopelessness and frustration over limited resources if part of the game, meant to force you to adapt, I used my knife or throwing knives when ever I could and relied on my revolver for large sections of the tunnel play. This allowed me to collect shotgun and rifle ammo as well as prewar ammo for barter. I found that the compass allowed me to find my way back to the needed path when ever I became separated from my guide. The compass, lighter, watch, filters, cracks in your gas mask, and let's not forget the modified weapons, these were all exceptional elements which also lent credit to the story. No pausing during fire fights here, another element of this game, which can cause some replays when you get your but handed to you, some would call it frustration, I call it cool, a different game that works, if you get where they were headed with it.
The only grips I had was the inability to map my weapons to quick keys and the ability of the AI to pin point you even if you are well hidden before they enter the area you have hidden in. Not always the case but several times I knew I was not in line of sight of the enemy. Last but not least it could have been longer, but adding more RPG elements would add many more hours and replay ability (IE side quests and interaction with the NPC's at various stations, I don't know if leveling works with this title). We will see if 4A moves in this direction or just adds more game play to a FPS with their next outing.
Good graphics, good story line, good weapons for the story, not a Fallout or Modern Warfare but something new vibe. I hope to see the next installment of this game with more expanded RPG elements. Many should remember that few companies have the resources of the Fallout or Modern Warfare groups. From what I've seen 4A has a very good game with solid elements and few problems. They have done a great job with this one. I have pre ordered Fallout Vegas, and eagerly await ID's post apocalyptic RAGE but I will defiantly keep the radar running for 4A's next installment.