THE GOOD:Original plot that is not restricted by any films.
Healthy weaponary variety.
Bond is Bond and not some Hollywood actor.
R and the Q-Lab gadget phone that does everything.
Frantic driving sections.
Diverse multiplayer that almost beats "GoldenEye 007".
Great music.
Detailled graphics.
THE BAD:
On-rails shooting sections.
Length.
SUMMARY:
James Bond blasts onto the PlayStation2 and lands with both feet firmly on the ground in this first-person shooter / driving simulation / on-rails shooter. Without the guidence of a film's plotline, as with the other major Bond games, "Agent Under Fire" creates an interesting story with a few twists that allows 007 to visit some of the most stunning locations ever featured in a computer game.
The graphics engine really shows this off well, displaying all the unneccesary detail such as light switches, drains and shop front signs that are all solidly interactive - no fake dressing here. Also, Bond himself is simply Bond, and not some overpaid actor, making the experience a truly unique one. Voice talent is done smoothly enough, and technology provides an excuse for M and R to evaluate and assist during missions, offering some helpful clues without making the game a lesser experience.
The weapons and gadgets are all there, including a fantastic mobile telephone that R equips with lasers, grappling hooks, downloading software and electronic decryptors. Also from Q-Lab are the vehicles that allow Bond to display his driving skills in several stand-out missions that include the BMW Z8 and the Aston Martin DB5. Mission objectives are varied and interesting, ranging from taking surveillence photogrpahs to destroying underwater laboratories. In another brilliant touch, stealth can also be employed instead of the usual first-person shooter method of blasting anything that moves.
The multiplayer mode also offers a wonderful range of locations that can be used in three different game modes, and gadgets are available including jet-packs and grappling hooks. Customisable weapon sets and pick-up settings ensure that you've never tried everything this multiplayer has to offer, and the character models look solid enough. In fact, it's only marginally beaten by the diverse "GoldenEye 007", but not by much.
There are some faults in Bond's otherwise perfectly pressed tuxedo, however. Several of the single player missions are on-rails shooting, and this is really not on for those wishing to control the greatest super-spy in the world. While Bond girls do the frantic driving, you simply point and shoot at cars, helicopters and on-foot villains... not the most exiting of mission briefs for 007. Also, for those looking for more than a long weekend, the length of the game is questionable. Still, unlockable extra features and the multiplayer almost help save this flaw.
Overall, however, EA have done very well for themselves and their reputation with "Agent Under Fire". A fast and frantic game that showcases just what can be done with the Bond licence... and a licence to kill. Grab a copy while you still can, especially now that it's on Platinum for twenty Pounds.
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