The Xbox 360 has long been heralded as the console to own when it comes to first person shooters. For many the reason to own microsoft’s console is as simple as the existence of the Halo series, while others find the controller to be much better suited to that type of game, it is also notable that any games that are cross platform tend to perform better on the Xbox 360 and the presence of Xbox live only furthers the divide. Regardless of which reason one might have to pick the competition, in reality the true inhibitor in picking the Playstation 3 is the misconception that the software simply has not been available. Killzone 2 shatters this theory.
It is true that the hype surrounding Killzone is palpable. This fact alone may cause some who would in all likelihood enjoy the game, to ignore it, however, those fans of the genre who manage to evade the hype train are in for a unique experience. Anyone who has seen in game footage of Killzone 2 has to agree that the game, technically, and graphically, looks phenomenal, its long years in development have paid off. Once the player gets past the initial reaction to the games looks, they will find themselves sucked into a unique story and a world filled with detail. In Killzone 2 you find yourself reacting to the war torn environments, and wishing to learn more about the helghast and what motivates them. The narrative is also a highpoint of the game. At first it seems that the factions you the player represent are the “good guys”; saving the universe form the evil empire that attacked your planet. However, as the story progresses, events unfold that cause you to question the legitimacy and motivation for the campaign and it becomes apparent that neither side has pure intentions. This said, the dialogue which mainly consists of ultra cheesy, over the top macho man bravado, falls short of the potential created by the universe, a negligible detraction from the overall quality of the experience.
As for the concerns that the Playstation 3 control system would not accommodate a shooter with ease, players need not fear. Although it may take some adjustment, the control scheme is perfectly tailored to the Six Axis. It is important to keep in mind that Killzone does not play exactly like other shooters. Your avatar has a real weight in the world, meaning that when you move, jump, sprint, or shoot, the interface responds accordingly so there appears to be a slight delay between input and on screen action.
Killzone 2 is one of those seminal first person experiences that any fan of the genre should experience. It is not perfect by any stretch of the imagination, but is a solid, highly entertaining ride, that should satisfy anyone looking for a good shooter.
By David Stuhlmiller
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