Conflict: Desert Storm

"To start this all I have to say is the probably the best military games out there period. Combining intense combat, templay and FUN!"

Story-The games takes place during the Gulf War in 1990 where the UN special forces defend Kuwait and some of Saudi Arabai. The characters involved are Bradley who is a rifleman and is basically the leader of the group. Foley who is a sniper. Connor is the heavy machine gunner. Last but not least is Jones who carries an MP5, shotgun and is a medic. He is also a special character (not because hes black) but because he specials in C4 and Tank mines which are very handy for most missions. The only problem with the story is the Gulf War was sort of one sided and not a lot of people actually died. Also I strongly doubt the US army sent in 4 guys to take out 30-40 iraqi soldiers by themselves, but meh who cares! (8/10)

Graphics-This game doesn't use all of the XBOX's power but its ok because everything in the game is respectable. There are times when the graphics, textures and effects are dazzling. At other times the environment seems bland and plain (it IS the desert so you can't expect to much). I have to admit though the blood effect given off popping a head shot or chest shot is satisfying. (7/10)

Gameplay-This is the reason I'm giving this game a 10. The gameplay here is so intense and is never the same. There are literally hundreds of different ways you can beat a level. From eliminating distance enemies and scouting routes with Foley to throwing a wall of smoke grenades and flanking enemies from the side while they cough. You can run in guns blazing killing every guy in sight or develop intense strategies to eliminate targets without taking a hit. Basically you have to play this game to appreciate its wonderfullness! (10/10)

Controls-The controls of this game can seem overwhelming in training mode with so many different things you can do. But that is like anyother game once you start playing they grow on you and before you know your multi-tasking like crazy. I do wish they made the equipment menu a little easier to navigate but its all good. (9/10)

Enemies-Basically the only enemies you need to worry about is soldiers, tanks and machine gunners. The soldiers are bit suicidal as they will run in a straight line at you until you nail them in the head. Tanks can be an annoyance if you don't have anti-tank missiles or tank mines but they are avoidable. Machine gunners can be easily sniped by foley. (8/10)

Replay/Addictiveness-This game will defiantly have you coming back for more. You'll find yourself replaying levels just to find different ways to school the iraqi's. Once you get started it will be hard to put it down! I collected many lates in school from missing the bus due to play this game to much in the morning! (10/10)

Multiplayer-Heres another great addition to a great game. Imagine playing along side 3 of your best friends raiding an Iraqi compound killing everything. Backing up your friend, helping your friend, healing your friend, you get the point! ITS FUN! (10/10)

Buy/rent-I recommend you buy this game for sure. The replay value and multiplayer alone make it great. If you don;t trust me then goto your local blockbuster and give it a try I know you'll come back for more. (BUY)

Overall-I think the editors at the Official Xbox Magazine where on crack when they gave this game a 6.6/10! This game is excellent from top to bottom and would be an excellent addition to your XBOX game library!

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 10/29/02, Updated 10/29/02