From Russia With Love (PlayStation 2, 2005)

The problem with all James Bond games post-Goldeneye is that they all essentially played the same. With one exception: they were not near as fun. From Russia With Love actually delivers a fun, challenging, and deep third-person shooter. The story mode is pretty long and offers multiple difficulties to beat it on. There are also challenges in each mission that allow you to earn medals that unlock bonus levels that don't directly pertain to the story. The multiplayer mode is the highlight of the game and features unlockable characters like Goldfinger and Dr. No (obvious omissions from Goldeneye).

Too bad killing people in this game is SO EASY it's ridiculous. Some people will like the arcade style of locking onto someone and shooting them and watching them go down. Others will be very bored by blowing through enemy after enemy without having to aim (unless you want to score Bond points to buy unlockable things). The AI is not the smartest either so there are no fun shootout moments. There are also "Bond Moments" that you can do in each mission. This is a double edged sword.

Example

Cool Bond Moment - Using a grappling hook to swing across a building, through a window, and smashing into an enemy guard!

Wtf Bond Moment - Walking into a room with extra ammo and body armor...


Overall, this is a fairly easy game with not a lot of challenge for seasoned shooter fans. Some parts feel very "Bondish" while other parts seem very "Wow Sean Connery really sounds old...that's kinda weird." On the other hand, this game would have rocked my world had I never played Socom, Splinter Cell, or Resident Evil 4. But if for no other reason get it for the multiplayer mode which can even entertain you and one other friend for a few hours. I can't even say that about Socom.