SOCOM II: U.S. Navy SEALs

"A Must Buy for Any Online Gamer"

Graphics: 9/10
I think the graphics are significantly improved over the previous game. The grenade effects are awesome, characters look even better, and textures are about 5 times better than the original.

Sound: 10/10
If you thought the gun sounds were awesome in SOCOM I, the sequel has all of them and a bag of chips. All weapons now sound unique, and now repeats. For example in S1, the F90 and the HK5 sounded the same, but in S2, they sound different. And with the exception of crisp weapon, taunt, and environment sound effects, the headset quality is amazing. It sounds like you're talking on the phone with the people it's that clear. In SOCOM I, my friend sounded like some drunk guy, but in S2, I thought he was talking right next to me.

Gameplay: 9/10
The gameplay in the single player campaign is almost exactly the same as S1 in regards to the feel of it, but now if you overhear conversations the later missions are easier. Besides that, there is a way better enemy AI, and there are multiple secret objectives you might uncover. Plus you can unlock new character skins for the online part of the game. Online gameplay is significantly changed over the previous game. Unlike S1, where you can shoot a guy in the harness and he'll drop in 2-4 hits, S2 features a new location based damage system. Sorry snipers, no more instant kills with a shot in the foot. The online part also features turrets, 2 brand new mission types, and glitch free maps from S1.

Controls: 8/10
The controls are exactly the same as SOCOM 1, but with a few changes in the way they work. For example, to change your rate of fire, you either have to double click the L3 button, or hold it down. Which is good news for you who accidentally tripped it in the heat of battle. Also, your stance doesn't change by accidentally bumping into something. It is pressure sensitive, so you lightly tap it to change from crouch/standing, and you fully press it to prone, or dive to cover. I gave this section a lower score because you can still accidentally tap R3 to reload and cause you to lose a battle.

Conclusion:
SOCOM II is a must buy for any online gamer. It is significantly improved over the prequel, and if you're sick of the people who glitch and cheat in the original, be happy! So far the new DNAS system has blocked 1000's of cheaters, and not one has gotten through. Online is still free, so support your fellow players, buy SOCOM II!

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 11/13/03