Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2

By Cassandra Thomas

Modern, definitely! Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 takes war and its plot to the next level. The seamlessly realistic and addictive videogame was released this past Tuesday.

Selling 4.7 million copies and gaining a first-day income of $310 million, Modern Warfare breaks the box office record of Batman: The Dark Knight, which crossed $300 million in ten days, according to PlanetXBOX360. Anticipated game-players have sought out to purchase the game with high expectations that has proven to be met.

Despite the extreme-action-packed game play, the grim reality of the game can cause uneasiness. Call of Duty is known for its first-person shooter and the rewarding heroic position the player is put in during the campaign; however, the player may question being the “ultimate hero.” In the three-act campaign, which is quite short and not too challenging, the player is placed in dark plots such as the “No Russian” level. You are the terrorist and you are being ordered to participate in the activities that terrorists do. Although the game gives the option of skipping this level, it still remains as disruptive as it sounds. “Parental discretion is advised.”

With high-definition graphics, the players get lost in realistic settings from Rio de Janeiro to suburban America. During the campaign, you will endure first-hand recreational activities: ice climbing, a snowmobile race and marine experience. Even while you’re an undercover terrorist or rescuing hostages, Modern Warfare 2 is guaranteed to make you feel as if you were really there.

Besides the required concentration of the dragging dramatic story, the multiplayer mode takes full-credit for the game’s success. The online multiplayer mode is competitive, rewarding the fastest and deadliest players with new skill-boosting perks. The sensational perks assist the player in being more strategic, more deadly and much more resilient.

Even if a player doesn’t reach “gamers” standards – long kill streaks, prestige rankings and minimum deaths – they are still capable in receiving experience points. More so, everyone is able to unlock guns, increase ranking, earn new equipment and gain perks. Unlike previous iterations of the franchise, guns that were only presented in the primary weapon slot are now available in secondary, meaning gamers no longer have to stick with handguns. For those who can’t handle the heat, a bullet-resistant riot shield can be equipped in primary, as well.

Modern Warfare satisfies the coordinated sharp shooters. In order to get from point A to point B, one must survive a swarm of enemies that are either repelling from a building or rushing towards your direction. Special Ops mode prepares the player for such a thrilling campaign and cutthroat multiplayer. “Switching guns is faster than reloading.” Ops mode assists the player in improving their reflexes, gaining flawless aim and coordination to completing objectives. The missions can be played cooperatively, so you can play with a friend and both can prepare to be “ultimate heroes.” Or not.

Modern Warfare 2 is ranked 9 out of 10.

WARNING: The game can cause sleep-deprivation and extreme, uncontrollable anger.

For another story about Modern Warfare 2, please click here: "Video Game Controversy: Modern Warfare 2"

Photo: Courtesy of GamerNode