DEVELOPER: Konami

PUBLISHER: Konami

SYSTEM: Sony PlayStation 3

PRICE: $59.99

ESRB RATING: Mature

REVIEW RATING: 5 stars (out of 5 possible)

Trained in tactical espionage by the black ops group FOXHOUND, Solid Snake doesn't need a license to kill because he leaves no witnesses. His missions force him to confront hordes of enemy soldiers, highly skilled boss characters, and the occasional Metal Gear (giant biomechanical robot). In this regard “Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots” is no different. But the exciting game play, gorgeous visuals, and high attention to detail make it much more enjoyable than its predecessors.

The Metal Gear series has always been hailed for its lifelike CGI, and the latest iteration takes it to new heights. In fact, nearly half of the game consists of high-quality cut-scenes that spell out the entire story spanning all previous Metal Gear installments.

Sporting gray hair and wrinkled skin, an aging Solid Snake sets out to eliminate the demented Liquid Ocelot and his band of genetically enhanced PMC soldiers. Along the way, he encounters local militia fighting the PMC, which forces him to evade both armies at first. Giving aid to the militia will eventually turn them friendly, which can be used to Snake's advantage. Believe me, it's much easier to sneak past the enemy after you've helped start a massive firefight.

Due to the steady conflict between militia and the PMC, “MGS4” packs much more action than it's predecessors. That's why I am so thrilled with the large weapon cache that can be upgraded. Want a laser-dot scope or a suppressor on that assault rifle? No problem, just purchase and install. Some awesome new gadgets have been added as well, like the remote-controlled Mk. II robot that can scout ahead and disable enemies.

Some may grow weary of the long-winded cut scenes found in “Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots,” but those that endure will discover a fantastic gaming experience like no other.

“Battlefield: Bad Company”

DEVELOPER: DICE

PUBLISHER: EA

SYSTEM: Microsoft Xbox 360

PRICE: $59.99

ESRB RATING: Teen

REVIEW RATING: 3.5 stars (out of 5 possible)

The Battlefield series has covered every major conflict from World War II to a fictional conflict in the year 2142. For “Battlefield: Bad Company,” the developers created a modern combat scenario complete with authentic weapons and vehicles found throughout the world. However, the highlight of the game is the inclusion of destructible buildings and objects that not only look cool, but also drastically affect how the game is played.

Reminiscent of the 1970 movie “Kelly's Heroes,” the single-player storyline focuses on a rag-tag squad of misfit soldiers on the search for a fortune in gold bars. Unfortunately, the game characters try so hard to be likeable that they end up as irritating.

But nothing could be as annoying as the enemy, A.I., who has the uncanny ability to know where the player is at all times. As soon as the first shot is fired, every enemy in the area instantly knows the player's location and starts to attack. It doesn't help that enemies rarely fire at the player's squad mates, or even acknowledge their presence for that matter.

On the other hand, every gigantic level is filled with hot spots that can be approached in a number of ways. It's up to the player to decide whether to attack enemy-infested towns on foot, in vehicles, or use a combination. In addition, it is no longer necessary to infiltrate every house to eliminate enemy soldiers. Simply blow a few holes in the walls and the occupants will be exposed.

While “Battlefield: Bad Company's” single-player campaign is enjoyable, the online multiplayer action is where the real fun lies. A new mode called “Gold Rush” pits one side that defends crates of gold against attackers who try to steal it. When one pair of crates is destroyed, a new pair becomes the target. Add destructible environments to the mix, and all sorts of improvised strategies can be implemented.

REVIEW SCORING SYSTEM

5 stars = Must Have

4 stars = Pretty Good

3 stars = Above Average

2 stars = Bargain Bin

1 star = Don't Bother

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

METAL GEAR: Snake is back with gray hair and wrinkled skin, but the fighting is terrific in ‘Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots.' Creators News Syndicate Photo.

BAD COMPANY: Reminiscent of the 1970 movie ‘Kelly's Heroes,' the single-player storyline in ‘Battlefield Bad Company' focuses on a rag-tag squad of misfit soldiers on the search for a fortune in gold bars.

To find out more about Jeb Haught and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2008 CREATORS SYNDICATE INC.