Developer: Naughty Dog

Publisher: SCEA

Platforms: PS3

Played on: PS3

Rating: 9.5 out of 10

Rated: T (Teen)

The Deal:

Uncharted: Drake's Fortune did a couple of great things for the Playstation 3 when it was released it 2007. Not only was it an exceptional Playstation 3 exclusive that established a new solid franchise during the system's slow start, but it was a game that really showed the graphical capabilities of the console in its first year after launch - graphics that are still considered among the best today.

The protagonist Nathan Drake really connected with gamers as a more modern Indiana Jones. Other than his impressive climbing ability, he was a relatable everyman. He spewed complaints when things didn't go his way, he had friends that would get him into trouble and he fell for a girl-next-door-type during his adventure. It was an awesome third person action adventure game that delivered the goods on many levels.

Now nearly two years later, the highly anticipated sequel Uncharted 2: Among Thieves brings back our treasure hunting hero. This time, Nathan is looking for Marco Polo's lost ships to find hidden treasure. But things never go right for Nathan and now he has to deal with a brewing love triangle between Elena and new love interest Chloe.

The Good:

- Without a doubt, the main selling point of Uncharted 2 is the “AAA” story. Every chapter raises the bar with plenty of surprises that immerse you further into the game until final (and amazing) ending. There are plenty of twists and turns, and we guarantee your ass will be planted to your seat for hours on end just so you can find out what happens next.

- Perhaps Uncharted 2's greatest strength is the undeniable chemistry and charm of the cast of characters. The actors did their voice work together on a stage rather than in a sound booth and they'll be ad-libbing at times. The result is some well acted, emotional and touching moments loaded with warm-hearted humour. It all serves to make the game a more engaging experience.

- Developer Naughty Dog wanted the game to be like a summer blockbuster movie and they certainly deliver on the promise. The game is loaded with several stages of intense action that will boggle your mind. Car chases, helicopter attacks and train derailments are just some of the best jaw-dropping events you'll ever encounter in an adventure game.

- The original had fun, exciting gameplay full of great gun fights, excellent puzzles and awesome weapons. These all return, but another layer of strategy and fun has been added with stealthy takedowns similar to Batman: Arkham Asylum, where you can creep up to unsuspecting bad guys for a sneaky takedown.

- Core to the adventure is that players are taken on levels full of exotic landscapes and beautiful environments. Nathan's exploration takes him from lush, vibrant jungles to snowy terrains to ancient exploration grounds, which all showcase the strengths of the PS3. And let's not forget the camera angles during Nathan's climbing escapades, which will certainly induce a new fear of heights.

- A lot of games tack on useless multiplayer, but we think Uncharted 2's robust multiplayer will, no doubt, be different. The gun play can swift and quick, but there's quite a bit strategy and teamplay thrown in for hours of online fun.

The Bad:

- There are minor nitpicks but you'll probably be too engrossed to notice. For one, the linearity of the levels and climbing design is a minor complaint. As well, the cover mechanics can sometimes be a letdown at some inopportune times. But the really bad news is that we have to wait a while until the next Uncharted installment comes out.

Final Word:

Uncharted 2: Among Thieves is a surefire contender for game of the year. Blockbuster movie-style gameplay, beautiful story, and a satisfying ending serve up memories of why you started playing video games in the first place. Go out and grab it now.

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