Left 4 Dead

"May not be flashy, but it gets the job done."

First off, let it be known this is NOT a single player game. Without XBL you will not get a good experience out of this game. End of story. Now that that's out of the way, lets get down to the game itself.

Story: 5/10

The entire story is it's been 2 weeks since the first infection of a mutated strain of rabies, and your group, due to whatever genetic makeup stuff, is immune. That's it. If you're looking for Final Fantasy-esque plot, seek elsewhere. However, the writings on the walls of safe houses allows for some sometimes humorous background to what has happened and the insights (however misguided) of those who came before you. Keep in mind though, that this isn't a story driven game, and, in my opinion, better to have no plot and let the players come up with their own, then to make a hackneyed one that no-one will like or even notice.

Game play: 8.5/10

Always the most important element for any game, this one serves it up in spades. Unlike most games released these days, there are no set spawns for anything besides that which you find in the safe rooms before each mission. That's right, one time through you go unmolested through a warehouse, the next (even on the same play through after dieing) you'll find yourself entering as zombies start leaping down from the upper levels and shelves. You leave the safe room and find advanced weaponry right off the bat, or you're pulling through with a pump action shotgun until you're but a few dozen feet from the next safe house.These random spawns of both enemies, weaponry and meds leads to a constant sense of tension and the need for some very twitchy trigger fingers.

Combat is simple, point away from face and fire. Even people who have never even heard of First person shooters can quickly get into the game. Some call this too noob friendly, but really, it's what this game is made for, pick up and play. However, while combat mechanics are simple, with your cross hairs always before you (no aiming down the sights, you already have the gun at your shoulder), survival, is not. Unlike other so-called co-op games, this one does not lend itself well to Mr. Gung Ho storming in and laying waste to all the monsters while the others stay back at a safe distance. Getting swarmed is a constant problem as you're slowed while being attacked, and that's not taking into account the special infected that can leave you hanging requiring another person to save your rump. Stragglers and rushers die 80% of the time, whilst a tight group formation with everyone covering each others back is almost guaranteed to win.

Ammo is usually there when you need it, so while you may not find yourself constantly running dry, you can't just set your gun to rock and roll and tear through. This is especially due to friendly fire always being on. That's right, better be careful with that boom stick of yours or you'll pop your buddies head instead of the zombie next to him. This, of course, can lead to griefers online, but with the VS mode, where two teams of four see who can survive each map in the best condition while taking turns as the infected, leads to them being few and far between.

In the end, the maps may be repetitive, but the random spawns makes up for it, and with a good team you'll be having a blast, whereas an uncooperative group will lead to you tearing out your hair in frustration. Mics are a must for on the fly strategy, and you really shouldn't go online without one.

Graphics: 8/10

Not much to say, everything is crisp and clear without being over the top in details, allowing for smooth game play. While you won't be seeing masses of sparks and explosions of giblets, there's enough effects to keep you happy. Your immediate area is lit up by the muzzle flashes, and the fire looks about as good as in Alone in the Dark, so can't really complain. It's not Gears 2 but at least it's this generation graphics.

Sound: 9/10

The sound is truly spectacular. From the eerie music, shrill whistle alerting you of an incoming horde, to the wheezing of the Smokers and disturbingly real gagging and vomiting sounds of the boomers, you're in for a real treat.

Overall: 8.5/10

If you can overlook the pathetic single player experience and the repetitive maps, you'll be finding yourself in the middle of an immersive, well put together box office hit. Sure, the graphics aren't flawless, sure the AI isn't that great on defense (rendered null when playing online), and sure there's no story to speak of, but a simple shooter like this hasn't been seen since Painkiller. Worthy of $60? Maybe not. A worthy purchase overall? You bet your immune rump it is.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 11/26/08

Game Release: Left 4 Dead (US, 11/17/08)