Published by:
Microsoft Game Studios
Developed by:
Epic Games
Release Date:
July 28, 2009
Available only on:
Xbox 360
INTRO:
The All Fronts Collection is an add-on (downloadable content) package for
the wildly successful sequel to Gears of War, which includes all the
downloadable maps as well as a deleted scene from the single player campaign.
This one checks in at about 1600
Microsoft Points (that’s close to 25 bones here in Canada) and this anthology
includes all of the previously available maps from the Flashback, Combustible,
Snowblind and the all-new Dark Corners map packs.
So basically, it’s a whole ton of extra stuff, ways to improve on an
already fantastic game.
GAMEPLAY:
The gameplay in this collection is as strong as the game itself. Gears of
War 2 offers a challenge to fans of shooters and provides an extremely well
versed story; the deleted scene that is included in the All Fronts
Collection only adds to the experience. What’s really cool is that you
actually get the rundown from Cliffy B, the game’s creator before you jump
into the action. Although it’s fun to tear through Road to Ruin, you can’t
help but feel it’s just another level that really wasn’t that memorable in
the first place. Unfortunately, one can actually begin to understand why the
level was considered a ‘deleted scene’ rather than some new content directly
delivered into our hot little hands. Let’s put it this way: you’ll play this
scene, thrash through it in about 40 minutes or less, and then it doesn’t
really add much, whether you choose the ‘guns blazing’ option, or you opt to
attempt stealthiness. If you bought this collection for this little part of
it, you’re going to be bummed out.
Out of the 19 multiplayer maps that are included in this collection the
Dark Corners maps are the newest in the series of downloadable maps (you know,
the ones you couldn’t get before?). The bulk of these maps are awesome however
there are a few that fail to impress. Sanctuary, a redefined map originally
released for Gears of War on Windows, would have to be my personal favourite
since it sets up amazing showdowns between the COG and the Locust. The new maps
are mostly quite impressive though- Nowhere was a standout for sure, a Horde’s
paradise. Also, I loves me some
rooftop sniper action.
Most of the other maps are pretty good too. Memorial, War Machine and
Highway were the maps that impressed us most, Highway could even be a sniper’s
paradise. The Allfathers Garden map failed to impress me as a lot of the
obstacles are very small so you are constantly running into various little
objects such as walls or small monuments. This whole package adds a lot to the
game’s replay value and of course it depends on who you’re playing with, but
this package could keep you busy for a long, long time.
Gameplay: 9/10
GRAPHICS:
This series has always been known for its fantastic graphics, and the
proof is once again in the details. Gears 2 is arguably one of the greatest
looking games I’ve ever seen on a home console, and it’s amazing that the
360 doesn’t hang itself when the game is running so smoothly. The art design
and environments look fantastic and the bosses in the game are just amazing.
Sometimes you’ll find yourself just walking more slowly to take it all in.
For real!
Graphics: 9/10
AUDIO:
If you have the privilege of hooking this thing up to a surround system
you will be amazed at how in depth they were with the audio. For example, if
you try and complete an express reload during a heated battle and you miss
the cue, the character will express his frustration with the gun by yelling
out some colourful language. Music and sound effects are just as impeccable,
is there a better sound anywhere than your trusty chainsaw mowing through
one of those Horde baddies?
Audio: 8/10
FINAL VERDICT:
The All Fronts Collection is a must have for anyone who does not already
own any of the downloadable maps and enjoys playing Gears online. On the
other hand, if you already own the previously released map packs then I
would suggest just downloading the new Dark Corners map pack and Road to
Ruin deleted scene. Either way, I would strongly recommend downloading the
maps if you are looking to play online. This pack is undoubtedly worth the
money, and is a must-own for gamers who have yet to get their hands on any
Gears DLC- your patience has been rewarded.
Author’s note: I’d like to send a special thank
you to my pal Brad
Moore who helped me out a great deal
with the online portions of this game…you rock!
Final Score:
9/10