Video Game review: Army of Two
Issue date: 3/26/08 Section: The Edge
Violent, explosive action comes to the console world in "Army of Two," and while it is largely entertaining, the game does not manage to be all that it could have been.
"Army of Two" should be complimented on the way it handles the story. While in many cases the story in a video game resembles something scribbled on the back of a gum wrapper, "Army of Two" manages to weave a poignant tale about both global and personal issues.
The game takes place in the backdrop of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, and it is refreshing to be fighting the enemies of today as opposed to the more typical video game villains like Nazis or Russians. The storyline is driven by the banter between the characters, which remains intriguing and allows the player to constantly learn more about the plot and the world it creates.
The two main characters, Rios and Salem, are the highlight of the game play. The title stays true to its name, as the two characters will be working together to accomplish their mission. Whether the other character is controlled by a computer or a friend, the action remains constant. Suppression fire and flanking maneuvers are a must to advance through the visually detailed levels. The game does an excellent job of making the missions need two people working together to advance, and the actions of the game manage to stay engaging throughout.
"Army of Two" also allows for a certain degree of customization. Weapons ranging from pistols to a mini-gun can be bought, equipped and upgraded to suit an individual's playing style. Whether the player wants pinpoint accuracy or just to spray a wall of bullets at the enemy, there is a gun to suit his or her style.
Along with the weapons, the game can be played in different ways. In the single-player game, the AI partner can provide cover fire or advance while the player brings up the rear. The missions do not necessarily have to be completed in one way, adding to the feeling of an open world.
"Army of Two" should be complimented on the way it handles the story. While in many cases the story in a video game resembles something scribbled on the back of a gum wrapper, "Army of Two" manages to weave a poignant tale about both global and personal issues.
The game takes place in the backdrop of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, and it is refreshing to be fighting the enemies of today as opposed to the more typical video game villains like Nazis or Russians. The storyline is driven by the banter between the characters, which remains intriguing and allows the player to constantly learn more about the plot and the world it creates.
The two main characters, Rios and Salem, are the highlight of the game play. The title stays true to its name, as the two characters will be working together to accomplish their mission. Whether the other character is controlled by a computer or a friend, the action remains constant. Suppression fire and flanking maneuvers are a must to advance through the visually detailed levels. The game does an excellent job of making the missions need two people working together to advance, and the actions of the game manage to stay engaging throughout.
"Army of Two" also allows for a certain degree of customization. Weapons ranging from pistols to a mini-gun can be bought, equipped and upgraded to suit an individual's playing style. Whether the player wants pinpoint accuracy or just to spray a wall of bullets at the enemy, there is a gun to suit his or her style.
Along with the weapons, the game can be played in different ways. In the single-player game, the AI partner can provide cover fire or advance while the player brings up the rear. The missions do not necessarily have to be completed in one way, adding to the feeling of an open world.
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