Black

Unlike most FPS in the market that are heavy on the good stuff ie Story, plot and character development, lengthy campaign, and set-pieces, "Black" from Criterion Games, is a throwback to '80s action movies that emphasized simple plots, but also outrageously ridiculous action scenes which the game is dripping with. The story is simple, but surprisingly engaging as it shows the dark and dirty world of black ops operations; covert acts of war that the US is reluctant to get it's hands dirty with, or so it seems. The game may not be on par with today's action FPS, but it's a helluva lot playable and enjoyable than lackluster fare such as Duke Nukem Forever. The less said about that one, the better.

But "Black" has bucket loads of intense, frenetic, destructible firefights that are so raw and intense like the '80s action films before it, it almost seems like a homage to it and if you look closely, you'll discover various Easter eggs that reference classic films from that decade. A nice touch by Criterion Games by giving hardcore shooter fans what is aptly described "Gun Porn" for the hog-wild FPS gamer and gun enthusiast alike.

Yes, the game is short, the graphics are a little grainy, which adds to the games Cold War-like setting, but it's movie-like action is what will win fans over and it also helps if you have a surround sound system cranked to the MAX to feel the full force of the weapons and their marvelous chorus. Simply put, "Black" is s symphony of sounds that will delight the inner-action hero in you. I've yet to play "Bodycount", which is a "spiritual successor" to the first game rather than an actual sequel, but with all the amazing technology out there, I fail to see why wasn't a sequel made? If all you want is a simple shooter game that's thin on plot(though I like my games with a lot of story in them)and sounds really good, then "Black" is right in your arsenal.

PROS: Good graphics, great sound, decent AI, great background sounds ( team mates etc.) CONS: No jump, invisible walls, long intro/unstoppable cinematics, not enough check points/ cannot save a partial mission ( XBox).

Decent game, but not the best by any means. In this day and age, not being able to jump and utilize all of your environment is plain ridiculous. And the invisible walls and small drop offs that prevent backtracking make this you feel like you are on rails at some points. The lack of check points/inability to save a partial mission are beyond frustrating, especially when every other FPS has this ability. A decent game, but anyone who thinks this is the best FPS ever obviously hasn't played one.

The creators did an amazing job of replicating the sounds, characteristics, and reloading procedures of real weapons (and some fabricated ones). The AI for both teams and enemies alike is the best I've seen in any game. They communicate with each other, take cover, try to outflank, and use suppressive fire to advance. Not only were the graphics absolutely incredible (close to the quality of the new XBox 360 console), but the fact that you can destroy just about anything--including blowing through walls and doors--and be rewarded with beautiful explosions and ground-shaking sounds make the game that much better. Also, the world in front of you is blurred out temporarily while reloading--to replicate the operative's need to visually focus on the gun and clip in order to reload. I disagree when people say it's not a very strong game; this is the first game since Halo 2 that really impressed me in terms of attention to detail by the creators. The bullet holes stay in the walls, cover can be blown away, and the gunfights will leave you coming down from an adrenalin rush for an hour after playing. Great soundtrack, and smooth, easy-to-learn game play. The only downside is no blood (BOOOO!!!). This FPS really makes you feel like you're watching a big-budget Hollywood action adventure. Some corners were cut in reality--for instance, HUGE magazine capacity (60-90 rounds for most guns), and the fact that almost EVERY enemy will dramatically fall and scream when hit from a balcony or ledge. However, this just ads the the big-time Hollywood feel given off by the game. Overall, this is DEFINITELY going into my Top 3 list. Great, strong game, interesting plot line, realistic dialog ("Somebody put some g**damn fire on that machine gun!"), AWESOME explosions, and enough secondary objectives and hidden treats to keep you coming back for more.

Not as good as it's been made out to be. The PG-13 feel doesn't help much either

First time i played this game was 11 or 12 years old ...I rent it from a shop and i wish i could buy it but I didnt ...I stopped playing ps2 for a big big period and when i started again i managed to find it and bought it 9 months ago .I missed this game so much.the first thought when i started to play ps2 was this game !It's the absolute gun porn...the missions the story the explosions the grenades are so brilliant especially the rpg .I have to admit is very difficult game at first when you dont know the missions and how to play but when you manage it this game becomes the love of your life. At least I have that feeling especially when i bet this game in all difficulties lots of times.