From the moment I popped this bad boy in I was dazzled. There was something about the level of polish of the last two EA - Bond games that I really enjoyed but I never really felt the need to own 'em. It wasn't until I saw a video review of this particular title that I finally decided that I needed to add this to my collection (not just rent it). This is one of those games that just makes me smile with glee. Talk about top notch production! Everything about this thing screams quality.
First - there's the gameplay which is both familiar and innovative. I like the way that the developers borrowed the best elements from many popular games. Actually, I'm pretty sure that's where they got the title "Everything or Nothing" from. You want Splinter Cell style gameplay? (check) You want Max Payne moments? (check) You want Need For Speed mixed with a bit of Spy Hunter? (check, check) Kill Switch, Dead to Rights, Enter the Matrix, Freedom Fighters and so on. The great thing is, it does all of these things very well without coming off as a ripoff.
Another thing is, the levels are so much fun, I'm having trouble not going back and playing them over and over again before moving on to the next mission. It can be as much of a kick to make the scenes "look cool" as it is to just complete the objectives.
Now - I have to say that I've seen some great looking games before on Xbox but not many that contain this level of polish. There are many moments where I found myself just staring at some of the little details. I really can't say enough about the graphics and there is waaaaaay too much to touch upon in a short review. Let's just say this game screams "SLICK". I can only find fault in a couple of areas where they used the in-game engine for some of the "movie-moments". I would have preferred that they intercut with pre-rendered movies, but all-in-all EA has produced a truly gorgeous game. I can't wait to see what they'll do next. It's really impressive stuff.
In the end, this game has single handedly made me excited for the future of Bond games and action games in general. If you've ever found yourself wanting to participate in a Bond universe - this is your chance. It's the first time that I can honestly say that I feel like I'm "playing a movie". Great GREAT stuff.
Amidst all the pre-Ninja Gaiden hoopla this game may get a bit lost in the XBox shuffle. That would really be a shame since this particular Bond title deserves a look for it's brilliant execution. It's a must-have for XBox owners.
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