Return to Castle Wolfenstein: Tides of War

"The one game you need for Live!"

I didn't really think I would like Return to Castle Wolfenstein at first. Actually, I wasn't even thinking about buying the game at first. But then I looked into the game and noticed how great it sounds. This review isn't going to go into greatd detail about the weapons and everything, I am just going to hit the main points of the game.

GAMEPLAY
The game has a ''Campaign'' mode that has a great story to it. You run around the greatly detailed levels just doing missions. This mode is also fun since it has secreat areas that are really fun to find. Some are hard, but it makes the game a whole lot funner after you beat it. Also, you can go back to levels you already beat if you just like that level or if you didn't find all the secrets. Of course, the game also has an online mode which will I dedicate a whole section to in this review.

GRAPHICS AND SOUND
The graphics are very detailed. For a game that has graphics as good as this and with so many things that can be happening on the screen, it's strange how it never slows down. The sound is also pretty good really good. It really sounds like a battle is going on whenever you play in a game. Although there are a few parts in the game that I felt that they could of added more or done better graphically, the graphics really are pretty good.

XBOX LIVE
This is the main reason why I think anybody should get Return to Castle Wolfenstein. The game just plays great online. Now, be warned, in many games you will find a lot of lag. But you will usually end up in a game with hardly in lag at all. (If you want my advice, join a dedicated server.) The online part of the game is just amazing. This game requires each gamer to be part of a team. Working as a team is usally something that you must do to win while you play this game online. Also, the people online seem very mature. They rarely go around and team kill people on purpose, but if they do, you can have a choice to call a vote so you can vote them out. There are many maps for you to choose from to play online, so don't worry about getting bored. I am sure that they will have new maps to download in the future also.

OVERALL
Overall, this game is totally worth the buy if you have Xbox Live. If you do not, however, you may want to consider renting it. Although the replay factor is high without Xbox Live, you may not enjoy it with the online part. But if you own Xbox Live and enjoy a great FPS, this game is for you.

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 05/23/03, Updated 05/23/03