‘James Bond: Quantum of Solace’
‘James Bond: Quantum of Solace’
(Activision) for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii, PC, PS2, DS
Genre: Action; Rating: T
Grade: C
Longtime readers probably know that I hesitate reviewing movie-themed games. Most of the time they are bland, thinly veiled marketing ploys just itching to squeeze another $60 out of the consumer. And in today’s economy, no one wants to drop that kind of cash on a lackluster tschotke.
“Quantum of Solace” does not do the James Bond brand justice through its single-player campaign. Yes, you do get some exciting shootouts in Bond-type locales. Yes, there is a high rate of satisfaction from sneaking around and plucking off the baddies with your silencer pistol. But the campaign is extremely brief and the momentum you’ve spent a few hours building up to is left dangling.
Where “Solace” really shines is the multiplayer.
‘MotorStorm: Pacific Rift’
(Sony) for PlayStation 3
Genre: Racing; Rating: T
Grade: B
The first “MotorStorm” game showed promise. It lacked content, and while it did some things well, it didn’t do enough to make it a standout title when the PS3 was first released. Now that time has elapsed, Sony has gotten its hands dirty, creating new tracks and expanding the host of gameplay modes, making “Pacific Rift” a hearty sequel.
Some might just call this a racing game, but what takes “MotorStorm” up a notch is the beauty of the terrain. Racing against all manner of vehicles (ATVs, monster trucks, dirt bikes, etc.) all in one race is a thrill.
“Pacific Rim” has twice as many courses as the original. The graphics have taken a nice step forward. More expansive multiplayer and online game modes complete the package, giving players tons of replay value and options.
— Chris Campbell, Scripps Howard
2008, The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.