Well, the wait is over, and MW2 has finally fallen into our grubby little ninja hands. And let me start off by saying, this game is totally living up to all the hype. First, the story is enthralling, and extremely well-written. Other articles I’ve read, and people I’ve heard talking, have said they thought it was too far-fetched, and unrealistic. I disagree completely. I think the story flows very well, and is entirely plausible from a “possible-end-of-the-world-as-we-know-it” viewpoint. It’s not any more far-fetched than the standard season of the 24 TV series. The story and character development both carry on perfectly from the last iteration of the Modern Warfare series, and also introduces a few new characters as well.

Second, the detail put into this game is outstanding, from the new pain expressions on NPC’s and enemies, to the crusty garbage in the streets, and chickens squawking and flapping in the marketplaces. Another thing I love is that the interactive aspect of the environments has been expanded too, like breaking windows and burning transformers on telephone poles. Third, and this one actually goes without saying, as we all know that the MW2 multiplayer is awesome. However, they have completely revamped the XP system, and I am loving it. The weapon, equipment, and perk challenges, and the bonus XP for revenge killings, ending someone’s streak, and headshots. It’s all a big step forward in my opinion. P.S. Tactical Insertion is my new best-friend, although I don’t like that it takes up my frag grenade slot.

Finally, the new customizations, like Kill-streaks, Death-streaks, Clan Tagging, and Insignias, all that stuff is genius. Anything that lets you put more of your own personal touch of style into a game is good, in my opinion. The new perks are genius as well, and one I can’t wait to use is the bling perk, where you can choose multiple attachments for your weapon, like a red-dot sight/silencer, or a thermal sight/heartbeat sensor. All in all, my first impression is that it will easily be a contender for Game of the Year, right at the top of the charts with the new Uncharted 2 and Killzone 2. I personally will be deeply immersed in the multiplayer for a few months minimum. If you don’t already have a copy of this game, you are an idiot. Period. Infinity Ward hit the ball out of the park with this one, so don’t miss out.

Keep your eyeballs peeled later in the week for Loot-Ninja’s full review.