By Charles L. Westmoreland
Battlefield 2: Modern Combat
Platform: PS2, Xbox, Xbox 360, PC
Developer: EA Games
Release date: In stores
The only thing missing from “Battlefield 2: Modern Combat” is the smell of napalm in the morning. Even still, “Battlefield 2” is arguably the best, and most realistic, online shooter currently on the shelves.
The intricate details of “Battlefield 2” are what set it apart from other online shooters. Gamers have 50 different weapons, 30 land, sea and aerial vehicles, and more than a dozen online maps to choose from. Players can also decide between five soldier classes categorized by their style of play.
The single-player mode is engaging, but the online play is where the heart of the game lies. Console versions can hold up to 24 players per room while the PC version allows up to 64 players to immerse themselves in combat.
The game play is smooth with little lag time and the settings mimic a real combat environment. Developers have ensured there is a difference between cover and concealment. Just because a player is hiding inside a building doesn’t guarantee his safety when a mortar strike is called in.
Competitive online rangers can track their progression through the game’s ranking system, starting with the rank of private and topping out at general. Rank is determined by medals earned for various achievements and points earned during combat.
”Battlefield 2″ is video game crack, and anyone who picks up the controller will become an instant junkie. It’s game collection soon enough. definitely worth renting, but chances are you’ll add it to your collection.
