Gears of War (Xbox 360) > Reviews > Gears of War.....wow

Author's product rating:   

Playability & Enjoyment	Excellent - very playable game
Addictiveness	Very hard to stop playing
Graphics	Excellent
Difficulty & Complexity	Average - suitable for most
Value for money	Good value

Advantages:	Graphics, cut - scenes, 2 player campaign
Disadvantages:	length of game

Recommend to potential buyers:

yes

Full review

I took what I would class as a big risk when I bought this game - I had just bought my X Box 360 and had only Pro Evolution Soccer 6 so I needed something I could get my teeth into. Going only by the advert (which impressed me greatly) I went to my local shop and paid £45 or thereabouts for the game. I did not regret this investment.

When I started playing I was instantly hooked. The gameplay is gripping, the graphics at times are very, very impressive and the cut scenes that accompany the storyline are superb. The controls can be a bit tricky at first, but once you immerse yourself in the game it becomes second nature. I like the fact that you can hide behind walls and other objects to protect yourself and also to blind shoot opponents. One very big plus for me is the fact that you can play the game either by yourself, or with a friend split screen. This is possible as, through the game, you are always in groups of two or four. I have had the chance to play on XBOX LIVE and this is a good change if you have completed the game.

The only things I would point out is the length of the game. I anticipated more levels however I think the game is fairly short as a result of the quality of the graphics and cut scenes. My friend and I completed the game in two 6 hour sessions, including time for restarting as a result of deaths etc! We could have probably completed it earlier I we played on an easier difficulty! One more note to point is some parts of the game are dark in places and it can be difficult to see. However, a small adjustment of your televisions contrast setting will solve this!

In general though an excellent game well worth the money! Very addictive and definitely the best in its genre - will be hard to top this. If you play on a big screen with the volume up and the lights off, it will be hard not be be impressed.