Is anyone psyched for next weeks release of "Army of Two"?

Does anyone have details about the co-op mode, specifically whether it will be split-screen or not? All of the screen shots I am seeing show full screen, but I am not sure if that is only via LAN or XBL? I am realy hoping it is some full-screen method, as I hate split-screen.

I hope it's good, but all the chatter last year when it should have launched pointed to it not being very good.

I would be if I had a friend to play with :(

I'm excited for this game, but I'm still getting caught up on my 2007 releases. (Its a good problem to have, believe me) If you haven't done so already, the trailers on Marketplace are worth checking out.

I'm excited for this game, but I'm still getting caught up on my 2007 releases. (Its a good problem to have, believe me) If you haven't done so already, the trailers on Marketplace are worth checking out.

The new commercial they played lastnight looked insane, but I know the often "doctor" those things a bit.

Is anyone psyched for next weeks release of "Army of Two"?

Does anyone have details about the co-op mode, specifically whether it will be split-screen or not? All of the screen shots I am seeing show full screen, but I am not sure if that is only via LAN or XBL? I am realy hoping it is some full-screen method, as I hate split-screen.
I can't see how they would do full screen unless you both have to stand right next to each other all the time (which would be a pain). Plus there is a video on gametrailers with split-screen I believe. If you do XBL then you get your own screen.

I can't see how they would do full screen unless you both have to stand right next to each other all the time (which would be a pain). Plus there is a video on gametrailers with split-screen I believe. If you do XBL then you get your own screen.

This is what I am dreaming of: "Camera Zoom"

As the players get farther apart, the camera could zoom out. This would encourage the players to stay close together for improved play. Maybe it is hokey, but I think it would be an original idea.

I'm interested. We'll see what people say about it. At least they got rid of the tampons.

I will get it for the coop. I think it looks good enough for that and since they delayed it to fix stuff, I think it should be a better game now, then it would have been before. I will still look at some reviews before, but I think it's a safe buy for me, since I will play it for the coop for the most part.

I will get it for the coop. I think it looks good enough for that and since they delayed it to fix stuff, I think it should be a better game now, then it would have been before. I will still look at some reviews before, but I think it's a safe buy for me, since I will play it for the coop for the most part.

+1
I only have a few friends that game, and we enjoy co-op campaign more than vs multiplayer. I love games like this, my hopes are def high.

No tampons= no purchase

It looks like it could be a good game...gameplay wise; but I just can't get past the dialogue/banter between the main characters. However, this is based on old previews I've seen. So I don't know if that has changed or not.

No tampons= no purchase

Can someone clarify what tampons are?

Can someone clarify what tampons are?

The original version used tampons as impromptu field medic treatments for gunshots, just like the Soldiers do now out of necessity. They took it out for some reason.

gotcha, Thank you!

meh... for some reason I just can't get pumped about this one. If they can bring the one-liners and voice acting in strong, then maybe it will fill a niche. If not, I will have to wait it out for BF Bad Company.

I am definitely interested. I had read some stuff last year that said it had a long way to go because it really wasn't up to par. Here is to hoping that they have worked hard on it and made it a first class title.

Most definitely. Looking forward to some co-op action!!

I am interested, but it depends on how well they do co-cop. From the previews, all I've seen is co-op over Live, no evidence of splitscreen yet, which I hope it does have. One thing it does have is a little camera in the corner, showing what your friend sees, which I think is awesome and could become a standard feature on all Live co-op games. being able to glance and see EXACTLY where your buddy is at all times, just like you are sharing the same TV, could make all the difference in the world.

GRAW 2 had this and I found I almost never used it (the teammate's view).

This suppose to be the GOW killer! I remember when GOW came out and some top EA rep. said with GOW. Nothing new was brought to the table and it was generic. Claiming at the time AO2 was superior in every way and really brought out a whole new experience to the table.

Kinda, but Rainbow Six is almost here too. I know nothing would occupy my XBOX for a few months following its release.

Ugh I gotta catch up with older games! I'm still trying to finish up Bioshock and Mass Effect. Warhawk has me hooked too!

This one looks cool. I'm in the "no one to play with" zone as well, so I'm hopping some sort of one person campaign exists as the screen shots look very cool. As noted, hopefully they improved the game by dealing with some of the earlier issues raised by reviewers.

I've assumed all along this had split screen co-op....am I wrong...again?

Cause that would suck big time.

Actually saw a commercial for this last night that made me excited about the game. Who does the song in it? (it's a remake of "One is the Loneliest Number")

Actually saw a commercial for this last night that made me excited about the game. Who does the song in it? (it's a remake of "One is the Loneliest Number")

I dunno, but it rocked hardcore. "Filter" did a remake of it for the "X-Files Movie", but I don't know if it was the same remake.

UPDATE EDIT: I found a YouTube clip of the commercial. The comments said it is by "Mastodon", and it does sound like them (I caught part of thier performance when they opened up for Slayer a year or two back).

plenty of game sites to get info...

Only because I get a discount from winning the FF league and Merc2 & Bad Company have been pushed way back am I getting this game to hold me over 'til Vegas 2.

I like the changes and should be a decent action game.

no word on if it's gold or not though. so might not be coming next week.

There graphics are really bad. And I'm one of those guys that won't play games on a next-gen console that look last gen.

I had high hopes for this games, but with every ingame movie I see the more I get let down.

Everything about it really looks last gen to me.

There graphics are really bad. And I'm one of those guys that won't play games on a next-gen console that look last gen.

I had high hopes for this games, but with every ingame movie I see the more I get let down.

Everything about it really looks last gen to me.



You sure you have the right game?
http://www.gametrailers.com/player/30263.html

No kidding, The graphics are right on par with current gen. I really think this will be the 1st truly co-op game. I dont think ive seen any game try to do what this one is. Sure co-op in RB6:V was fun but there was no player to player interaction. I think this is the last piece of the puzzle and A of 2 is doing it. Hope its not broken.

You sure you have the right game?
http://www.gametrailers.com/player/30263.html

That was a trailer--not gameplay (in game) footage.

Here's some gameplay footage:

http://www.gametrailers.com/player/31038.html

All the gameplay footage looks the same. It looks just like Kane and Lynch. Look at their skin. It looks like shiny and plastic-like. The blood looks lame (especially when you get hit). The smoke looks crappy. When you glow red, that looks bad (it coulda looked awesome!). The textures look awful. The foliage looks blocky and not real. The character textures look horrible

Again--the GRAPHICS look last gen. The mechanics and everything, sure, I guess seem next-gen (the co-op part of it).

All I'm saying is that based on the trailers for the game, it looks AWESOME! But then you see the gameplay and it looks bad. Seriously--I'm calling it first, this is the next Kane and Lynch. I think when it comes out all the reviews will say how cool it could have been, but just didn't deliver.

BUT--what I'm really talking about in my posts are the graphics looking last-gen based on the gameplay footage that's been posted. It might look better at home on our HDTVs. There is NOTHING next-gen about the graphics. Nothing.

Sounds like you have'nt played a regular xbox game in a while.

It looks just like Kane and Lynch. Done and done.

It looks just like Kane and Lynch. Done and done.

Have to say I don't see the similarity, either.

There graphics are really bad. And I'm one of those guys that won't play games on a next-gen console that look last gen.

I had high hopes for this games, but with every ingame movie I see the more I get let down.

Everything about it really looks last gen to me.


I don't trust anybody who uses "There" when they should have used "Their"......:p

sounds like a troll to me.

saw the commercial. same one from Nov but with 3-06-08 in it. Guess I'll go ahead and get my EA discount since they don't have anything else comin out :mad:

the agro system(glowing red) does look lame, makes it too arcade like

that parachute/sniping segment looked pretty sweet though

Someone just mentioned this game to me and I wrote it off before reading this thread. I thought it was some FPS that just had a demo released on Live a few weeks back. I believe you were in Iraq and were with one other super-soldier-type character. I believe you could switch between them at the push of a button but I could be wrong on that.

Anyone know what game that is? I'm at work and can't get onto any of the gaming sites at the moment.

However, after watching some clips on YouTube (of actual gameplay) I'm pretty excited about this game.

Someone just mentioned this game to me and I wrote it off before reading this thread. I thought it was some FPS that just had a demo released on Live a few weeks back. I believe you were in Iraq and were with one other super-soldier-type character. I believe you could switch between them at the push of a button but I could be wrong on that.

Anyone know what game that is? I'm at work and can't get onto any of the gaming sites at the moment.

However, after watching some clips on YouTube (of actual gameplay) I'm pretty excited about this game.


You are talking about Conflict: Denied Ops, which I agree is nothing to get excited about. I expect Army of Two to be much better.

Sounds like you have'nt played a regular xbox game in a while.

+1

You are talking about Conflict: Denied Ops, which I agree is nothing to get excited about. I expect Army of Two to be much better.

YES! That was the game. Hella lame.

anyone know when the reviews will be coming out on sites like IGN or 1up? seems like it should be today or tomorrow right?

Good question! It seems odd and frightening that we are only 4-6 days from release and there are no reviews :O. Im waiting to pull the trigger on this one now.

Good question! It seems odd and frightening that we are only 4-6 days from release and there are no reviews :O. Im waiting to pull the trigger on this one now.

its release date is the 4th, only 2 days away, not 6. still no reviews that i can find. :(

There are some people out there playing it already but I am hearing it's not that great :( .

-- Jason

Good question! It seems odd and frightening that we are only 4-6 days from release and there are no reviews :O. Im waiting to pull the trigger on this one now.
Don't most reviews get held to release day or at least release week? (except mags which have a reason for reviewing early).

According to Metacritic some review site in finland gave it a 8.7:rolleyes:
as did apparently something called GameRevolver.com http://gamerevolver.com/article-91-Army-of-Two--Reviewed.html

There, so now we all know its totally wonderful because it comes from these highly respected sites :)

EDIT: oh and from the gamerevolver review (I added the bold :p):
"The story behind the game is very intriguing and the characters are brought to life with great voice over and constant chatter, much like Kane & Lynch, only better! From cover to game play, this one is pretty sweet."

Don't most reviews get held to release day or at least release week? (except mags which have a reason for reviewing early).

According to Metacritic some review site in finland gave it a 8.7:rolleyes:
as did apparently something called GameRevolver.com http://gamerevolver.com/article-91-Army-of-Two--Reviewed.html

There, so now we all know its totally wonderful because it comes from these highly respected sites :)

EDIT: oh and from the gamerevolver review (I added the bold :p):
"The story behind the game is very intriguing and the characters are brought to life with great voice over and constant chatter, much like Kane & Lynch, only better! From cover to game play, this one is pretty sweet."

the game gets released tomorrow. i find it odd that none of the big sites have a review up. IGN, 1up, Teamxbox, gamespot, etc..

I think most reviews tend to go up during the weekend before release.

If there are no reviews because EA didn't send out review copies, then stay far away from this game.

the game gets released tomorrow. i find it odd that none of the big sites have a review up. IGN, 1up, Teamxbox, gamespot, etc..


Common technique.

Get the pre-order money first, then lift the press silence agreements.

(the press must do as they are told of course)


From the dialog I've heard it will be stupid. I just hope it's fun. I've loved the Splinter Cell online co-op in the past and I'm hoping this game will at least be fun with a friend.

First review I have found, http://www.gametrailers.com/player/usermovies/184379.html I dunno guys, looks pretty damn good to me.

graphics concern me a bit. doesn't look to be on par with some of the current 360 games.

graphics concern me a bit. doesn't look to be on par with some of the current 360 games.

I know. It's hard for me especially after going through "Ghillie's In the Mist" campaign in Call of Duty 4. That was some of the most impressive graphics I've seen on the 360.

With the lack of reviews so close to release, I smell something fishy here.

this guy has the game, really seems to be genuinely impressed with it. says the graphics look far better then the game videos have made them look. http://www.gamespot.com/xbox360/action/armyoftwo/show_msgs.php?topic_id=m-1-41745414&pid=932860

P.S. I understand gamespot sucks but this guy is just a poster on the forum and actually has something useful to offer.

EDIT: oh and from the gamerevolver review (I added the bold :p):
"The story behind the game is very intriguing and the characters are brought to life with great voice over and constant chatter, much like Kane & Lynch, only better! From cover to game play, this one is pretty sweet."



Well I knows K and L gameplay sucked ass but i did hear that was one of the only good things about the game was the voice acting and dialogue. I mean, I thought the demos dialogue was pretty good but the gameplay. horrible

His comments seem promising. I've been looking forward to this game for a while, but with no reviews out 2 days before release, I was beginning to think the worst. The positivity is nice to hear.

X-play will have their review of the game tonight on G4 tv. i know they suck to but at least we can get some idea. i fully expect IGN to have their review up by later this afternoon.

starting to look surprisingly good guys.

2 new reviews.

http://gamerevolver.com/article-91-Army-of-Two--Reviewed.html

http://www.lazygamer.co.za/xbox-360/army-of-two-reviewed-ps3/


"Overall:
Bottom line, EA has created a game that has captured our manhood, and hearts. This is truly a unique title, that has created a whole new way to play games. With any luck, we will see this one hit trilogy status in the next several years, as I just can’t get enough."


"As I stated earlier, I was unsure at the beginning of the experience, but now I’m sold. I love it, and I would gladly recommend this game to anybody. EA, I commend the originality and overall experience. If you love serious simulation and reality, you might not enjoy this as much, but it’s still worth a really good look at.If this is what mercenary work is like, count me in. Whoo Haaa."


"Graphics:
The graphics of this title are beautiful to say the least. Animations are fluid and you never miss a beat in game play due to lag, although you may see the occasional slow down. Characters are well defined, from facial hair to the scars of war. Each character possesses their own unique look, style and set of animations that keeps the game fun to play, and even fun to watch.
It is the level design that has us thoroughly impressed, with vast, incredibly detailed terrain, an open world feel, and multiple paths to get to many of your objectives. It is truly eye candy to see, which is something normally missing from most EA games of late (except Burnout Paradise, we love you!)"

X-play will have their review of the game tonight on G4 tv. i know they suck to but at least we can get some idea. i fully expect IGN to have their review up by later this afternoon.

I will give them credit on this, they call a spade a spade when it comes to a turd. The 5 point rating scale is awful though.

The Gamespot crew (what's left of them anyway) played a bunch of it live On the Spot last week, and the graphics looked fine, really nice even.

starting to look surprisingly good guys.

2 new reviews.

http://gamerevolver.com/article-91-Army-of-Two--Reviewed.html

http://www.lazygamer.co.za/xbox-360/army-of-two-reviewed-ps3/


"Overall:
Bottom line, EA has created a game that has captured our manhood, and hearts. This is truly a unique title, that has created a whole new way to play games. With any luck, we will see this one hit trilogy status in the next several years, as I just can’t get enough."


"As I stated earlier, I was unsure at the beginning of the experience, but now I’m sold. I love it, and I would gladly recommend this game to anybody. EA, I commend the originality and overall experience. If you love serious simulation and reality, you might not enjoy this as much, but it’s still worth a really good look at.If this is what mercenary work is like, count me in. Whoo Haaa."


"Graphics:
The graphics of this title are beautiful to say the least. Animations are fluid and you never miss a beat in game play due to lag, although you may see the occasional slow down. Characters are well defined, from facial hair to the scars of war. Each character possesses their own unique look, style and set of animations that keeps the game fun to play, and even fun to watch.
It is the level design that has us thoroughly impressed, with vast, incredibly detailed terrain, an open world feel, and multiple paths to get to many of your objectives. It is truly eye candy to see, which is something normally missing from most EA games of late (except Burnout Paradise, we love you!)"

I'm officially pumped up again! Is it Wednesday yet?

graphics concern me a bit. doesn't look to be on par with some of the current 360 games.

I know--this is what I've been saying.

There are some people out there playing it already but I am hearing it's not that great :( .

-- Jason

Again--I've been saying this, too....Kane and Lynch....

I'm always leary of a game coming out that has no demo.:confused:

I'm always leary of a game coming out that has no demo.:confused:

Gears of War had no demo!!!!!!!!!!

Gears of War had no demo!!!!!!!!!!

Please tell me you're not comparing this game to Gears of War...

I think it's kinda weird when NO ONE but a Finland magazine has a review out just a few days before the game is released. I know publishers give exclusive review rights to magazines and such, but it almost seems like the publisher isn't allowing anyone to write a review until after it comes out (and yes, after all pre-orders are set).

He's not. He is saying that you dont need a demo to have a great game. Im betting that this game is going to be good. People hyping this up to suck are gonna think it sucks, regardless of good reviews. Your gonna end up looking for all the negatives.

I put my order in this weekend so guess I'll get it next week sometime.

need a new mindless game since Burnout has been burnt out and I just can't do Dynasty anything anymore.

New review (i think)

http://www.n4g.com/NewsCom-118545.aspx?CT=1

I am looking forward to it but I am going to wait until others have tried it out first. While in theory it is a good game it will depend how it is implemented.

I don't think it is a big deal that US reviews aren't out yet. I figure they are waiting til it actually comes out before they put out a review just in case they delay it again. Though this is really the zero hour so it would be a little late to be pulling it now.

This comic made me laugh my tail off the other day. Ctrl+Alt+Del (http://www.ctrlaltdel-online.com/comic.php?d=20080229)

Xplay said to their surprise it actually turned out pretty good. They said some of the Sixaxis stuff on the PS3 version left a little to be desired. The multiplatform rating was 4 out of 5.

Good deal! Xplay is pretty harsh with their games so thats definete good news

yep, x-play liked it.

actually said, "if you liked gears of war, this game is made for you."

final comment was, "this game is good, we didn't expect it but it is actually pretty good."

still cant believe that this games release is now a few hours away and not 1 major review from the review sites.

So Xplay gave it 4 out of 5 with plenty of unexpected praise like the following:
http://www.g4tv.com/xplay/reviews/1729/Army_of_Two.html

"Army of Two has some of the best art direction of any EA game in recent memory."

"Accompanying all this is a fairly daring story that incorporates 9/11, the private security contractors who have been so prominent in the news in the last year, and other “ripped from the headlines” ideas that are fairly surprising to see in a videogame. It’s mixed in with enough witty banter and run-and-gun action fluff that Army of Two certainly doesn’t come off like a preachy political treatise, but it’s good to see games that don’t shy away from such content."

The really liked the gameplay too (only thing they didnt like was a sixaxis section at one point on PS3...though they did mention a camera problem when you get surrounded). They liked it better with an actual person as your co-op partner but it looks like you can certainly play it single player though, so I guess I am in....when I finish Lost Odyessy.

Also GamerTV reviewed and gave it a 9 out of 10.

Wow , odd that all these pro reviews are saying it's so good when a few LIVE buddies that I have are telling me that it is just so-so (not bad but certainly not a 9/10 either) . I have to admit that the game has interested me since it was first shown so I guess I'll have to try it out and decide for myself .

--- Jason

I would be if I had a friend to play with :(

You should check out http://www.co-optimus.com

If you create an account you can link up with other gamers that own the game. The site is entirely dedicated to co-op gaming. Oh yeah..and it's mine. :)

1 more review. they gave it an 8 http://www.gamedaily.com/games/army-of-two/xbox-360/game-reviews/review/5327/1966/

"General gameplay consists of running and gunning, and occasionally using your smarts to get out alive. The artificial intelligence is perfectly balanced, although some rookies might find the opposition hard to overcome. The general controls are great, with excellent gun functions and a simple partner instructing system mapped to the D-pad. You can have them hold position, thrust ahead and do a couple of other functions, even though you never take direct control of them. The use of a sweet GPS system comes in handy as well, particularly when you're lost and need directions to get back on track.

Visually, Army of Two scores with outstanding details. The soldiers look very intimidating with their custom mercenary gear (we love those skull helmets) and plenty of slick moves, such as the cover slide. The levels are great, varying in locale and providing lots of cover points and stuff to blow up. You'll love taking a ride on the aircraft carrier, with waves so realistic you may actually feel seasick. If you get sick or take on too much damage the display darkens a little bit giving you this creepy feeling that you're seriously about to die, unless your partner can pull you out of harm's way."

Actually saw a commercial for this last night that made me excited about the game. Who does the song in it? (it's a remake of "One is the Loneliest Number")


All, and I mean all of the commercials feature nothing but Pre-rendered CGI crap. No in game vids, are a sure sign of another EA garbage title.

Curious to know how much replay value there will be especially with MP. I assume it's just 4 vs 4?

I'm sure the answer to my question is in the links above but I can't open them at work. I'll check them out when I get home tonight.

Looks like the "freaks" who only care about great graphics will be pleased. :D

sigh...another shooter.

Is it just me or is that genre getting overflooded? especially with titles that on the surface seem like clones of eachother..

anyone else diggin the Mastodon cover of three dog nights' "one"?


edit:
Mproper, i just answered your question, though i didnt see your post till now.

Yea, and on the commercial, it was just starting to get good with the drums playing that funky beat on the bell of the ride cymbal when they jumped to the chopper. Im gonna have to find this song!

Yea, and on the commercial, it was just starting to get good with the drums playing that funky beat on the bell of the ride cymbal when they jumped to the chopper. Im gonna have to find this song!

good luck, seems like ea has it on lock, and no plans of it being on their next album...

found this though http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tDQGTCQk5t8

Oh damn, so did Mastodon do this song for the game? I was under the impression it was a somg EA liscensed from them.

Oh damn, so did Mastodon do this song for the game? I was under the impression it was a somg EA liscensed from them.

from what i've found it seems that EA sought them out to record the song specifically for the trailer for the game.... i'm not completely sure though, i do hope the song surfaces somewhere though.... in my eyes mastodon is "the greatest metal band you've never heard of"

All, and I mean all of the commercials feature nothing but Pre-rendered CGI crap. No in game vids, are a sure sign of another EA garbage title.

And posts like this are a sure sign of another ignorant poster.

+1

Has anyone heard about the "bring your buddy back to life minigame" I think you were supposed to do something to keep your dying partner from running to the light. I know that before the game got delayed the developers were using a tampon as a gameplay element for this but heard that that has since been scrapped.

just what the hell is going on here. not one of the major sites has a review up yet.

Here's a short interview with Army of Two assistant producer Matt Turner

http://www.co-optimus.com/interview/29/Army_of_Two_Co-Op_Interview.html

Good find! That 2nd in command guy didnt seem very knowledgeable though ha ha.

Curious to know how much replay value there will be especially with MP. I assume it's just 4 vs 4?

I'm sure the answer to my question is in the links above but I can't open them at work. I'll check them out when I get home tonight.

Looks like the "freaks" who only care about great graphics will be pleased. :D

I think its just 2 vs. 2 according to the xbox website. It says 2-4 players in the multiplayer section.

IGN gives Army of Two a 7.9

review here: http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/856/856967p1.html

8.0 Presentation
From the menus where you buy and pimp your guns to the story that covers conspiracies and political intrigue, the presentation of Ao2 is quite engaging.


8.5 Graphics
Large character models, detailed environments and striking explosions add to the action on the battlefield.


8.5 Sound
Voice acting is excellent, even with the frequent cursing, and sound effects bolster the action.


7.5 Gameplay
As a single player experience, the game is somewhat hampered by AI and unfinished elements. As a co-op experience, the game starts to really stand out on its own.


7.5 Lasting Appeal
The single player experience is pretty shallow, and you won't return to it once you've beaten it. Co-op and multiplayer, on the other hand, will definitely extend the fun factor.

+1

Has anyone heard about the "bring your buddy back to life minigame" I think you were supposed to do something to keep your dying partner from running to the light. I know that before the game got delayed the developers were using a tampon as a gameplay element for this but heard that that has since been scrapped.

someone didn't read the thread ;)

yes that's gone. now you drag you partner to saftey so he can heal.

no email saying my game has shipped yet. hopefully it just pops up by fri...

A Couple of missions into the game and I have to say that I am enjoying it so far. I would put the graphics on the same level as any of the current unreal engine games which is to say it is good. The game plays very smoothly although I find that the shooting accuracy is a bit more difficult then say Gears of War. This is especially true when enemies get up really close. At extreme close ranges where you and the enemy are strafing, the targeting just seems a little sloppy. It also takes a little to get used to having to spot on target the enemy at close ranges to execute a melee atack. COD4 would be the other end of the spectrum where if your anywhere in the vicinity of the enemy and use your knife, you kill the enemy. Those two things aside the game plays great. Without giving away any spoilers, there have already been a few memorable scenes in the game which have been a lot of fun to play co-op over Live. There are some neat effects in the game that come off as innovative not gimmicky. When your aggro is high (this meter means that enemy attention is fully on you) your character starts to glow red. It reminds me of that 80's karate movie "The Last Dragon" where they glow during their final battle. Having said that, I do think that it is subtle enough in the game to let you know you've got your aggro on but not over the top. Conversely, the effect on the other player is just as cool as he becomes translucent to show that the enemy is not focusing on him. The bullet time effects when you are back to back with your partner is done very well and adds drama where needed in certain scenes. I was worried that the witty banter between the two main characters would get annoying but it is actually funny and totally controlled by the player. You go up to your partner and press "A" to initiate some funny remark or action. If you go up to him and pull the trigger you do something a bit more energetic like head butt him. It comes of as funny because you choose the moments when you want to add this comic relief.

I haven't tried the multiplayer (other then the Live co-op) so I can't comment on that. I think it will be popular because it seems that the money you earn in the campaign or over multiplayer combines to purchase weapons and upgrades that can be used both in the campaign or online. COD4 for example separated the weapons you upgraded online from what you can use in the campaign. I'm not sure about this but my friend played through the first mission solo before he played through it again with me and he kept his money from his first playthough and added it to what we accomplished. It seems the money you earn stays with the gamertag. This is cool because there are a ton of weapons to buy along with a ton of upgrades for them. It is cool to be able to add to and customize your character whenever you play the game regardless of the mode your playing.

One other thing. I have to give credit to Gamecrazy for getting this game to it's customers today and not tomorrow like some of my friends who pre orderd from Gamestop. Gamecrazy sent one of it's employees to the shipping yards to pick up the first delivery in person and bring them back to the store. Very cool.

PS. if you pre ordered you get a code for a free exclusive weapon to download and use. pretty cool.

A Couple of missions into the game and I have to say that I am enjoying it so far. I would put the graphics on the same level as any of the current unreal engine games which is to say it is good. The game plays very smoothly although I find that the shooting accuracy is a bit more difficult then say Gears of War. This is especially true when enemies get up really close. At extreme close ranges where you and the enemy are strafing, the targeting just seems a little sloppy. It also takes a little to get used to having to spot on target the enemy at close ranges to execute a melee atack. COD4 would be the other end of the spectrum where if your anywhere in the vicinity of the enemy and use your knife, you kill the enemy. Those two things aside the game plays great. Without giving away any spoilers, there have already been a few memorable scenes in the game which have been a lot of fun to play co-op over Live. There are some neat effects in the game that come off as innovative not gimmicky. When your aggro is high (this meter means that enemy attention is fully on you) your character starts to glow red. It reminds me of that 80's karate movie "The Last Dragon" where they glow during their final battle. Having said that, I do think that it is subtle enough in the game to let you know you've got your aggro on but not over the top. Conversely, the effect on the other player is just as cool as he becomes translucent to show that the enemy is not focusing on him. The bullet time effects when you are back to back with your partner is done very well and adds drama where needed in certain scenes. I was worried that the witty banter between the two main characters would get annoying but it is actually funny and totally controlled by the player. You go up to your partner and press "A" to initiate some funny remark or action. If you go up to him and pull the trigger you do something a bit more energetic like head butt him. It comes of as funny because you choose the moments when you want to add this comic relief.

I haven't tried the multiplayer (other then the Live co-op) so I can't comment on that. I think it will be popular because it seems that the money you earn in the campaign or over multiplayer combines to purchase weapons and upgrades that can be used both in the campaign or online. COD4 for example separated the weapons you upgraded online from what you can use in the campaign. I'm not sure about this but my friend played through the first mission solo before he played through it again with me and he kept his money from his first playthough and added it to what we accomplished. It seems the money you earn stays with the gamertag. This is cool because there are a ton of weapons to buy along with a ton of upgrades for them. It is cool to be able to add to and customize your character whenever you play the game regardless of the mode your playing.

One other thing. I have to give credit to Gamecrazy for getting this game to it's customers today and not tomorrow like some of my friends who pre orderd from Gamestop. Gamecrazy sent one of it's employees to the shipping yards to pick up the first delivery in person and bring them back to the store. Very cool.

PS. if you pre ordered you get a code for a free exclusive weapon to download and use. pretty cool.

thanks for the review man. :)

And a even bigger thanks if you provide us with the code ;)

great review!

after reading ign's review again, i think this is a rental for me. i think i will buy Vegas 2 instead.

Euro Gamer give it a 7 out of 10

http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=93977


Game informer gives it a 7.5 out of 10

the last few reviews i have read have all said the campaign is pretty short. like 6 hours.

IGN's review is up:
http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/856/856967p1.html

I ordered two copies. To me it looks like more fun than Vegas 2. I think I could play RS:V again and convince myself it's part two, it's been so long. I don't like Ubi's business model of releasing the same game twice (GRAW, RB:S). They need new locals to keep it fresh and more casinos is not fresh.

We need to try some AVS 2v2 Army of Two matches.

I think its just 2 vs. 2 according to the xbox website. It says 2-4 players in the multiplayer section.

Thanks. :) I can't count. :confused: I meant to say 2 vs 2.

IGN's review is up:
http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/856/856967p1.html

read post #92 in this thread. :)

Excellent game, good graphics, up there with some of the best out there, a step down from the top of the line games (i.e. COD4). Excellent game play. By far the best or I should say, most fun co-op game I have had in a LONG time. Not sure I like the glowing red body thing but it does serve a purpose. I just think an icon would of been better. Excellent humor in the game. Laugh out load funny at times. Just getting started but really enjoying this game!!

the last few reviews i have read have all said the campaign is pretty short. like 6 hours.

Isn't COD4 shorter than that? At least you can play through it again on co-op.

Im wondering how long the legs are for the 2v2 multi. Also with only 4 maps for it, im sure the DLC will be kickin soon enough.

Excellent game, good graphics, up there with some of the best out there, a step down from the top of the line games (i.e. COD4). Excellent game play. By far the best or I should say, most fun co-op game I have had in a LONG time. Not sure I like the glowing red body thing but it does serve a purpose. I just think an icon would of been better. Excellent humor in the game. Laugh out load funny at times. Just getting started but really enjoying this game!!

Thanks for the concise review. Picking this up. Co-op + beer + humor = fun!

just be warned there is NO offline co-op. not even LAN connectivity.

just be warned there is NO offline co-op. not even LAN connectivity.

That sucks! well thats a killer for me, I thought sure there was a split-screen video on gametrailers but I didn't watch it so maybe I miss-read it.

There is split screen.

just be warned there is NO offline co-op. not even LAN connectivity.

wrong

just be warned there is NO offline co-op. not even LAN connectivity.

There is split screen.


well, which one is it? i got screwed buying COD4 assuming there was offline co-op.

well, which one is it? i got screwed buying COD4 assuming there was offline co-op.

it was made for co-op both offline and on. its split screen co-op offline.

Anyone seen this on sale yet? It looks like a probable buy for me.. especially if I can find it for $49.99 shipped. :D

Anyone seen this on sale yet? It looks like a probable buy for me.. especially if I can find it for $49.99 shipped. :D

Ya, what he said......

its on sale now. not sure where you guys are looking but all the game shops here in jersey have had it in stock since yesterday.

ah sorry tycho steered me wrong I guess:
Just got back from the store with two copies of Army of Two, my mind already blossoming with mercenary exploits, when it suddely became clear that the game has no local play option. No local play option. Even on the same Goddamned LAN, both accounts need to be Gold Tier Live accounts. You seriously have got to be ****ing kidding me.

(CW)TB

You gotta be freaking kidding me?!?!? 2 gold accounts to play splitscreen, Thats freaking BS!!

okay, i'm still confused... this game DOES or DOES NOT let you play with another guy sitting in the same room on the same xbox?

You gotta be freaking kidding me?!?!? 2 gold accounts to play splitscreen, Thats freaking BS!!From what I can glean over at the TeamXbox forums, you don't actually need two Gold accounts. You just need a player signed in on a second profile (can be gold, silver, or -maybe- local) and you can play split screen co-op.

You gotta be freaking kidding me?!?!? 2 gold accounts to play splitscreen, Thats freaking BS!!

okay, i'm still confused... this game DOES or DOES NOT let you play with another guy sitting in the same room on the same xbox?


ok, let me put this **** to rest, and maybe the people who don't OWN the game will stop putting out misinformation.

you CAN play split screen with ANYONE else signed in, be it gold, silver, or just a local (non-live account)

this screen is me (gold) on controller one, and a profile i created a year or so ago for friends called "others" this others profile is not a unique name, nor is it gold or silver or live enabled even.

playing in split screen is identical to the SP campaign or online co-op, minus half your screen space of course.

http://img122.imageshack.us/img122/6421/cimg4571smallyn7.jpg



now in reguards to system link, i'm not seeing an option, though i havent looked, my guess would be to put both consoles online, but THEN you would need 2 gold accounts.


online co-op is really fun, maybe more fun than gears was (for me)... the feign death feature is hilarious (oh sh*t i just fell down these stairs)... my buddy actually got glitched somehow, and he could feign death over and over, with full health, the enemies didn't believe he was dead (fool me once....) but it was hilarious feigning death on stairs and stuff.... kinda like some fun i had with oblivion and the paralyzing touch

Just picked this game up and it rules. Online co-op is fun as hell.

Question for those with the game: How do you help the destroy bunker (secondary objective) in Iraq level?

well, which one is it? i got screwed buying COD4 assuming there was offline co-op.

How do you call not doing your homework "getting screwed"?

Yes, it does local co-op, you just have to create a dummy account, it can be a local account.

Man, this game is awesome, I freaking love it. The character model is one of the best I've seen in a game. Awesome details on the military uniform. Some excellent humor in the game. This thing REALLY shines playing it co-op. I got a little bored constantly ordering around your teammate in single player. You always have to tell him what to do and how to change for the situation. The AI is a little lame. When holding a shield in front of me and having your partner firing over your head, the enemy would run right along side us and not shoot us, some would even come up from behind us, run past us. Kind of lame. Overall, wow, so glad I picked this up, excellent game!!

For those that have played it, what game does it most resemble in terms of graphics. Does it have a GOW look to it or what?

Thanks

1up gives it a B- http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3166818&p=4

I really dont understand how they even gave it a B-, they seemed to say that the game is mess in many ways. seems to me like they should ahve given it a c- or a d based on the review they gave it.

Does it have a system link setting? Can I play if I have two 360s and 2 tvs without going on xbl? No lan sounds crazy lame.

For those that have played it, what game does it most resemble in terms of graphics. Does it have a GOW look to it or what?

Thanks

It isn't GOW quality, probably a couple steps down from that. The environment isn't as detailed as your character. Fully customizable characters, new armor, upgraded weapons, etc. I would say better then most games out there, but not as good as COD4. It more closely resembles COD4 then it does GOW. Looks kind of like frontlines if you have played that demo.

There are screen shots out there. They are dead on for what the game looks like. The gameplay is actually better looking then the cutscenes, doesn't look like they put a lot of money into the cutscenes.

I got a chance to play the first 2 levels of Ao2 last nite (minus the cranking sound and bass :( , thanks wife)
The training level and 1st level started to scare me. Honestly I thought, "wtf, why do I need all these special moves? why do I need aggro. I wasnt used to the game and I was playing like Ive always played these 3rd person shooters, like rambo.
It wasnt until the 2nd level that I started realizing the tactics provided were actually useful. I was getting my ass handed to me trying to disarm a missle, when it dawned on me after the 5th try "why not use the aggro and flanking maneuvers"? Things got a whole lot easier after that. Well not easier, it is still tough (im playing on the med setting as the hardest is blocked out)

I couldnt help but think how cool this would be with a human as my sidekick. My partners AI was decent and got the job done but sometimes it left me scratching my head, or yelling out of frustration. AAAAGH, why the hell are you dragging me INTO the firefight? Ha ha. It happened about 30% of the time which was just enough to slightly irritate me. Another fault is that it feels like you have to babysit the AI partner. If you tell him to hold without making sure he is behind cover or atleast VERY near to cover, he will just sit there. I never tested out what would happen if he was under fire when he just sits there, maybe THEN he scurries to cover.

The weapons and upgrades are good but not RPG like. The "black market" shop is broken into 4 sections, Main weapon, secondary weapon, special weapon, gear.
Main, secondary and special weapons have about 12-14 weapons a piece ( 2 more downloadable with a code) and range in price from 900 to 150,00 dollars. There are different categories for the upgrades like barrel, magazine size, stock, ect.. about 6 in all with 2-4 different upgrades each. The Gear section is a little more dissapointing as the only GEAR you get are different facemasks and 3 different armours (light med and heavy, how original) From how the menus are designed, you can tell there will be lots of DLC one of which will hopefully be different armour designs.

The aiming can be irritating sometimes, however this could be partly ironed out once I get used to the controls. I found myself in the 1.5 hrs of play getting better. Aiming works just fine and almost as good as Gears of War at all distances accept for melee range. If you let an enemy get close, your in for some hurt. This happened to me a few times because I "let" the enemy get close. My fault yes but the enemy sure was good at knocking me to the ground with their rifle before I could, speaking of which I still havent figured out how to do that myself. One other control gripe is the camera. The camera is quite good with 1 acception. When my partner is dragging me to safety, sometimes depending on angle and/or relative position to a wall my aim becomes completley blocked by him. It doesent happen often (again 30%) but when it does im usually getting my ass shot up by 6 guys w/ automatic machine guns ha ha ha, just my freaking luck.

Graphics are very good. The training level started to make me wonder, but it was a bland concrete floor/wall setup without much imagination. Then the real levels started and I was impressed. The lighting is absolutley fantastic, some of the best ive seen and ranks right up or past some of the greatest games that have come out recently. The character models are fantastic too especially on the main characters. The animation is good but not mindblowing like when you first played Flashback or Alone in the Dark. Bullets make pot marks in appropriate material too.The sound is another fantastic high, with bullets whizzing past you impacting walls behind you. Its a treat in 7.1.

The story is good, and right up there with the manly films of our generation. The contracter angle is great and a nice change from your typical mercenary/soldier romps that have become the norm in todays action gaming world. Character acting is good specifically the main characters. The banter back and forth is a little odd at first, like meeting your friends buddies for the first time at the bar, but you get used to it and it becomes fitting with the premise. Most of the tounge in cheek stuff is actually pretty funny and totally appropriate.

Another gripe I have is that the "buddy things" you do like back to back, helping each other onto ledges and all that are pretty much scripted. That sucks and was a big bummer for me when I first found out about it. Also what about the RB6:V / GoW cover systems, they could have atleast done that. Nowadays it feels akward not being able to push against walls and barriers. Oh well :( I think most of this can be made up for by playing with a human couterpart.

While I only played 2 levels some of my comments might need to be corrected further down the road, but I have a feeling things will ony get better as they did going from the training level thru the 2nd level. I got a glimpse of the 3rd level and it looks fantastic, wide open spaces in Iraq with spots of palm trees everywhere and the water... oooh. I cant wait to get co-op going on this game as I truly think the game will get kicked up 10 notches from single player. Also the 2v2 looks very promising, although, im not sure if I will EVER have 3 otehr friends that would want to play this at the same time with me. So sad. Point blank, this game was purpose built for co-op and to get the most out of it you NEED to play it with another human. So far I my rating out of 10 is

SP: 7.5
MP: Id like to try it and am confident it will bump it up to atleast 8.5

good review. my only problem with the game is lacking in "how to do" directions(you used the melee for example). on one level i am parachuting in and it tells me to guide the parachute, when i am actually supposed to be guiding the parachute AND sniping enemies. kinda confusing.
i also dont like how when enemies get near you they become invisible and can walk through you and melee you. i am still giving the game a shot...

glad I had the coupon but wish I could of used it in a store. Played by a friend and it was a blast. my copy comes in fri. glad to see someone take the extra time to make a game better...


I'm wanting Mercs2 even more now... co-op with open world.

This review rips the game apart. http://reviews.teamxbox.com/xbox-360/1483/Army-of-Two/p1/

damn, theyre on point with the SP but the co-op is sooo much better.

damn, theyre on point with the SP but the co-op is sooo much better.

thats what makes it a rental for me. i enjoy the single player part of games mostly with the online play being a small factor for buying a game.

gametrailers.com review is up.

http://www.gametrailers.com/player/31599.html

I have to say that I was hesitant on this one! I was one of the folks that went head first into Kane & Lynch and regretted my bad decision. I have enjoyed this game 100%. It may not be a AAA title in graphics (although they are nice in my book), but the Co-op campaign is a ton of fun and has definitely been one of the better co-op experiences I've had in a long time. It has been a blast watching each others backs, healing, dragging, etc. I've had some genuine laughs and this is one of the first in a while I look forward to going back through on Professional or whatever hard is called. Well worth the buy for me personally. Again it may not be AAA to the general reviewers but in my book, the fun I've had in co-op makes it a personal AAA title. Good job EA and I look forward to another.

Side note, when I went to grab my pre-order, my local gamestop was sold out of all it's extra copies outside of the pre-orders and the clerk mentioned a couple other local stores already were sold out as well.

P.S. - If anyone needs someone to go through it with on Co-op just send me a friend request. It can be a tough game, but it's a blast in co-op...

I have to say this game is a pleasant surprise. I heard about it only a few days ago so I decided to give it a try. At first I thought to myself, "Man this game is wack. I wonder if I go back to the store right now will they give me my full money back". This, mind you, was during the training session. They shove all this info on you in the span of 2 minutes and you're sitting there like "WTF? How am I supposed to remember all of this". But I kept on. The controls took a minute to really get used to and really weren't my cup of tea. But I kept on.

Once I got into the action I couldn't stop. I went for the harder level and had a lot of fun. Somewhere around the beginning of the 4th level I had found a friend who went online with the game and we both did the rest in co-op. (we didn't finish) It was really fun then. This game REALLY emphasizes team work and thats cool. There are alot of suprises in the game and funny moments. All of this was said before of course but I thought I'd add my two cents. Some parts of this game , and I'm not just talking about climbing things, you just can't do without participation from your partner.

This review rips the game apart. http://reviews.teamxbox.com/xbox-360/1483/Army-of-Two/p1/
Hmmmm,
Its looking more and more difficult to justify this for $60, especially considering I havent finished LO and then there is Condemned, RB6:V2 and Dark Sector coming in sucessive weeks afterward. (Plus I never picked up Burnout, Area51, Turok, Timeshift or DMC. It seems AoT as a single player shooter is not that much bettter then Area51, Timeshift or Turok and certainly shouldnt compare (for me) to RB6). Problem is, if you wait until its cheap to pick up then you dont have as many people to co-op with.

I think it's a really fun game but with some quirks ;) . Maybe not a must own AAA title but it would be a great rental IMO .

-- Jason

Problem is, if you wait until its cheap to pick up then you dont have as many people to co-op with.

This is what I am thinking. I am a big fan of co-op but the reviews and comments from owners just aren't making me want to spend full price on this... decisions decisions.

I played the 2v2 mp with my 7yo son who signed into guest account via splitscreen. We had a blast! It was great because there wasnt just 1 objective, they kept coming! I must say that the jeeps controls sucked though. It was just alot of fun watching each others backs. The escort mission was a blast. I would pick the injured guy up and my son would watch my back and he was actually doing good. I wanna do co-op mode with him but probably wont because of all the cursing. My first taste of MP was alot of fun! WTF is u p with them adding enemy ai?! I mean you get xtra cash for it but its just a pain sometimes. Id rather it be 2v2 not 2v2v30ai

This is what I am thinking. I am a big fan of co-op but the reviews and comments from owners just aren't making me want to spend full price on this... decisions decisions.

just rent it. you can even keep in an extra week and get your fun out of it. 2 weeks or so of hard play time for like $15 bucks isn't to bad.

I got a chance to play the first 2 levels of Ao2 last nite (minus the cranking sound and bass :( , thanks wife)


Nice review. You, my friend, need to join our "I just bought some awesome headphones so I can play video games really loud after my wife goes to bed" club ;) My wife and I have both been very, very happy since I bought my Tritton AX360's.

You know ive actually been thinking about doing that ha ha.

this may be a stupid question but can you play one-on-one splitscreen? id love to own my buddy when he comes over. :)

this may be a stupid question but can you play one-on-one splitscreen? id love to own my buddy when he comes over. :)

yes, look up a few comments at the picture of splitscreen.

I couldnt figure out how to do 1v1 (each with a AI buddy) yesterday. I dont think its possible.

I still want to know if it has system link. I hate the ea server solution with their ability to decide when to shut the server off. I still miss ssx3 online. With system link, you don't need to worry about ea servers.

yes, look up a few comments at the picture of splitscreen.

that pic only shows splitscreen, it could be co-op. im looking to see if i can play one on one against a friend

I couldnt figure out how to do 1v1 (each with a AI buddy) yesterday. I dont think its possible.

i would actually prefer not to have an AI buddy. just me and my friend against each other like GEARS.

I dont think thats an option considering its called army of 2. if it was 1v1 the premise of the game would be shot.

well gears was a two person game and they had an option for one-on-one.

well gears was a two person game and they had an option for one-on-one.

no, gears was a single person game with the option of someone else playing with you in their own single person game, nothing was utilized for two people, no real coop or team objectives....

army of twos' core mechanics are built on 2 people, whether it's two live people or one person and an AI buddy... everything about the game is balanced between the two players with the aggro feature, weapon swap, coop snipe, etc..... gears is a single player game with coop an afterthought.

im not sure what your getting at but i know for a FACT that i played gears on the same system, same tv, splitscreen ONE on ONE with a friend.

The mechanics of Army of Two base itself around 2 people, hence the name Army of Two. Like I said, thats the whole premise of the game

some people are saying that the game is almost unplayable online with all kinds of EA server problems. :(

glad I had the coupon but wish I could of used it in a store. Played by a friend and it was a blast. my copy comes in fri. glad to see someone take the extra time to make a game better...


I'm wanting Mercs2 even more now... co-op with open world.

Signature query: What type cichlid? I prefer Central and South American. Their behavior appeals to me more than the Rift Lake types.

I got booted from a 2v2 game a couple times :(

Meh, I traded it in already, not bad but it really needs work!

I got this game last night and have made it through the first 3 levels with my buddy next door. I can say, after I beat this game, I'm selling it pronto. I don't really like the gameplay. It can be hard as hell to run down and shott someone and I really, REALLY do not like the 3rd person view.

It is an OK game, but had I rented first, I would not have purchased it.

am I the only one bored with this game? I'm only on the 2nd level on contractor and I'm already bored...

Read my post above yours... I'm not too happy with this purchase considering the hype.

LOL at the last 4-5 posts in this thread. definitely a rental now for me. my rental place has 4 copies but they are all rented. i just want to beat the game play online for a bit and i think that should be enough to last me until R6V2 comes out in a little more then a week.

If i would have to give it a rating, I'd say 6.8 out of 10 would be about right. R6V2 hopefully will be good!!

i'm one of the chumps who bought 'army of two' on blind faith.... a buddy and i played through the campaign this weekend; man, do i love throwing $60 away on a broken game. how could they release such utter crap? the shooting is so horrible...and the enemies? talk about busted! save your money.

this was a good idea.... terribly executed. looks like that extra development time didnt do much to save this bomb. for a game whose whole concept is co-op, it seems terribly tacked-on and horribly scripted. there's hardly any co-op in the gameplay at all. i mean, aside from lifting each other up or requiring both players to be present at each door to open them safe-deposit-box-style, and the drag/heal/shoot thing...that's pretty much it and splinter cell has been doing that much better for years.

the game is a bust. typical EA: pummel a decent idea into the ground through poor development cycles/too many managers in the kitchen and you get a half-assed nothing that should have been something.

Seems like everyone is polarized with this game. Perfect timing considering it is an election year. :D

I am going to pass and look forward to R6V2 next week.

Man, I freaking love this game. Best co-op experience in a LONG time. Played it like 6 hours straight over the weekend with my brother. We didn't want to take it out. Excellent game. Only two negatives. One small one is when using the parachute, aiming can be hard with the camera problems, sometimes the parachute guy is blocking your view. Other is there doesn't seem to be enough ammo laying around, I only have like 5 sniper rounds and I never seem to find any more.

I played almost through campaign of "Army of Poo" last night. I really hate that this game didn't turn out right. The game actually could have been GOTY material if it was executed correctly. The formula is right on the money. The gameplay feels forced and way too linear. The graphics on the character models are stunning, but everything else is bland. The weapon selection is top notch as far as I'm concerned, but there is no reason to change from the first weapon set. I like the customization and co-op aspects of the game. The AI is pretty good, far better than Dom. I'm glad I rented it instead of purchased. Here's to what could have been. Cheers! Maybe someone besides EA could have done this title justice.

JH review- 6/10

This review rips the game apart. http://reviews.teamxbox.com/xbox-360/1483/Army-of-Two/p1/

LOL I love how he doesn't even know one of the main characters name

a cutscene starts with Samson and Rios running out to a helipad

Salem not Samson hahaha!

i'm loving this game, went through on contractor, and now working on professional... dont know if the MP portion interests me, so i may sell the game while the resale may still be high.

I dove into this game knowing it was, and who developed it, and I'm very happy with it. I'm not sure its fair to compare a game like this to Gears of War or Rainbow 6. Below are my experiences after I picked up the game and played through half of the campaign on contractor (medium difficulty) with my brother-in-law over Live.

-The framerate seems Ok so far, but there are some lighting issues, when going from indoors to outdoors or vice versa.
-The AI can be downright poor at times for both your partner and the enemy. At the same time, you control a pretty big portion of your partner's actions, and staying on top of this can really add some depth to the game, and help to avoid leaving you dissapointed with your partner's AI mistakes.
-The graphics are just so/so, but definately not last-gen as some people have claimed.
-The game already seems to be a little redundant, but we definately had a blast playing it together. The controls, (aiming, melee, cover-system) are a little clunky and awkward at first, but after the training and first mission, you quickly begin to pick it up, and it's pretty good. Also, customizing weapons also helps to lower recoil and improve accuracy.

All in all, the game is a purchase that probably should have been a rental. I dont see the online play (2v2 Multiplayer) being anything worth writing home about, especially with several quality titles being played online by millions everyday.

Online Co-Op is pretty good, and makes the game more enjoyable. If you're on the fence, I'd save your pennies and put them towards one of many great games coming out this year, and pick this one up from the rental store on a rainy weekend.

Signature query: What type cichlid? I prefer Central and South American. Their behavior appeals to me more than the Rift Lake types.

I do em all. Africans make easy breeders for live food but do like CA/SA more. So many varieties.

As for the game. I guess I'll never get how advertising has turned to hype. this game was never talked about as comp for GoW or any other game. It was made for co-op and plays like it. Don't care about every game using U3 engine or looking glitzy but no control. this game looks good, has control and a story that's expandable. very hopeful they will work on a sequel.

maybe this will get Contra an update.