Reviews

Destruction is the name of the game

Battlefield Bad Company 2 satisfies multiple shooter fan cravings. Topping the list is destruction - and it's present in spades. The game's impressive damage model, 'Destruction 2.0,' is arguably the biggest highlight, underpinning both the singleplayer and multiplayer modes and providing the title with a unique bow in its arrow.

The battlefield changes dynamically as your bullets tear holes in walls and explosions bring buildings crashing down, leaving enemies with no place to hide. Likewise, when you're under sustained enemy fire you'll find yourself dashing for alternative cover as your surroundings collapse, or cleverly manipulating the environment to create fresh vantage points to provide you with some brief respite.

Battlefield evolved

In Bad Company 2's singleplayer campaign you assume command of 'B' company, the same four-man squad of US military misfits from the first game. The title depicts a fictional near-future war in which you're pitted against a Russian military force intent on invading your homeland.

The ability to carve your own path through the scenery using the explosive arsenal at your disposal gives the game a sandbox feel, although the freedom this creates means you won't encounter as many awe-inspiring set-pieces as you do in more scripted shooters like Call of Duty or Gears of War.

The variety offered in game play approach extends to the often stunning environments and situations you find yourself in. You'll fight through snowy mountaintops, dense jungles and dusty villages on foot or in numerous vehicles including tanks, helicopters and quad bikes.

Variety is the spice of life

The gunplay is satisfying and well balanced, the vehicle sections manage to be realistic yet accessible, and your squad-mates work alongside you impressively to help you out in tight spots. Generally the enemy AI impresses too, taking cover while it's available and reacting realistically as battles evolve, providing a solid challenge, particularly on harder difficulty settings.

Multiplayer is where the game really shines though, and where most of the lasting appeal lies. Long-time fans of the series will be happy to find returning online modes such as Squad Deathmatch, while there are some great new additions like Squad Rush.

Traditional deathmatch modes are mixed with checkpoint control game types and attack and defend affairs. Large scale 16 player modes will appeal to those who enjoy the chaos of war, while smaller game types often encourage a more tactical approach. Whichever your favoured style, the maps are well designed and work across all modes, and with the damage system in full effect no two games will feel the same.

Reap the rewards

As in most modern multiplayer shooters, playing over time and achieving set targets sees you accumulate experience points, enabling you to rank up and acquire new abilities across four distinct character classes – medic, assault, recon and engineer. In a manner similar to Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, the game feels accessible because it rewards you for your exploits with new weapons and abilities on a regular basis.

The damage model, class system and vehicle options combine to create a highly customisable and varied multiplayer experience, leading to plenty of unforgettable moments you'll attempt to recreate time and again and be keen to boast to your friends about.

GAME's Verdict

• Greatly improves on the original.
• Unique, game changing environmental destruction.
• Varied online play with lasting appeal.

• The singleplayer campaign is outshone by multiplayer.
• A few too many cut-scenes.
• Slightly generic storyline.

Review by: Tom 'B Company' Ivan
Version Tested: Xbox 360
Review Published: 04.03.10