Having nailed World War II action with Call Of Dutys chaotic clashes and archaic weaponry, shifting focus to the contemporary theatre of war is a brave move for developer Infinity Ward. But even though Modern Warfare is based around the edgy weapons and gadgets that rattle Middle Eastern battlefields on a daily basis, whats most notable about the game is what hasnt changed.
Like its predecessors, Modern Warfares action is unflinching and remorseless, hurling players into front-line combat where gunfire roars relentlessly, stray bullets criss-cross the path in front of you, and Kalashnikov-wielding lunatics lurk around every corner. And, like in previous CODs, the uncompromising action is brought to life by stunning graphics and twisting levels seeped in detail, making even the smallest skirmish a heart-pounding experience.
Newfangled elements such as night-vision goggles and helicopter gunships also help to make COD4 the most gripping instalment in Activisions perennial series, and the electrifying multiplayer - where you can create a warrior and endow them with hand-picked skills - is guaranteed to keep players yomping back for more.