Gears of War 2

Gears' gameplay isn't mindless warfare -- it's intensely focused, visceral fun. The cover system, despite its returning flaws, is still addictive. Likewise, hunkering down in the game's Roadie Run -- during which the camera pulls down close to your character as he ducks and runs -- again feels limited, as it's not conducive to either keeping an eye (and the camera) ahead of you or making tight turns. For such a stunning game, these held-over missteps seem odd, but they have little impact on Gears 2's impressive level of polish across the board. A nice, thick coat of blood red polish at that.

Review: Gears of War grows up

"The gutting with the lancers, the curb stomping, the bleeding out - it's all beautifully displayed to the highest level of gross. Just the way it should be. For any parents reading this - that is just one of the reasons you shouldn't even think about getting this for the kids."

"Epic has some smart ideas that it's toying around with, and we definitely like where the multiplayer is going."