James Bond: Agent Under Fire (PS2)

Who'd have thought that the exploits of a secret agent could be so underwhelming? Agent Under Fire isn't exactly boring--in fact, the first time you play you're sure to be impressed by the suave looks and immaculate presentation. But it soon becomes clear that this is no sophisticated vintage Bond homage; it's a fleetingly entertaining blast that just happens to feature a famous British secret agent. Which isn't to say that there aren't enjoyable elements here. There're a couple of Crazy Taxi-influenced levels that work well, as well as some mildly diverting "on-rails" shooter stages. At heart, though, like N64 masterpiece GoldenEye, this is a first-person shooter and one that suffers badly in comparison with that game.

There are clever gadgets to amuse yourself with, as well as frequent set pieces in the form of "Bond moves" that will delight the casual fan. But more experienced players will find the lack of depth here distressing. The real problem, though, is the "intelligence" of the enemies. These are the dumbest bad guys you'll ever encounter in a video game. Coupled with the unerring accuracy of your auto aim, you could complete much of the game blindfolded. Consequently, it's difficult to feel much satisfaction, even upon saving the world. The developers have at least made an effort with different styles of play and a decent multiplayer mode, but Agent Under Fire is (at best) a good-ish game in a genre full of great alternatives. Be careful with your next Bond license, Mr EA--it may be your last. --Steve Colton

In James Bond: Agent Under Fire the player must defeat the evil criminal mastermind Malprave, head of a rising terrorist organisation that is bent on ruling the world with an army of clones. Helping players along the way Agent Under Fire is Zoe Nightshade and a cast of familiar characters. Each of the more than 10 exotic locations around the world contains a generous offering of challenging, well-balanced missions and objectives.

Agent Under Fire lets players accomplish mission objectives by blasting through with high-tech weaponry, or by relying on state-of-the-art gadgets and nerve-tingling stealth. The driving levels feature an array of 007-inspired exotic cars and automotive combat from the Bond movies. Other key features include the all-new story line that builds on the Bond legacy with villains and allies, both new and familiar; three well-balanced gameplay style experiences for the single player (action, stealth and driving); a full arsenal of Q-lab weapons, gadgets and autos; and fluid action inspired by the 007 films.

There are also enormous, detailed, 3-D environments to be experienced through the eyes of Bond. Agent Under Fire will utilise next-generation console technology to help bring life full environmental physics and detailed 3-D environments, such as a massive deep-sea oil rig set atop a secret underwater base. Includes single and multiplayer modes (support for up to four players).

Bond fans rejoice MGM's blockbuster international superspy is coming to the popular next generation console system. James Bond 007 in Agent Under Fire for the PlayStation 2 will deliver a unique and complete game experience that thrusts the player into the world of secret agent 007. The game will feature a completely new and original single player storyline - exclusively designed for the platform - that stays true to the Bond film legacy. Agent Under Fire, a first person action title, promises to deliver a well balanced mixture of missions/levels filled with furious action and stealth, as well as whirlwind driving that is complimented by state-of-the art gadgets and sophisticated spy-craft that Bond fans expect.

As Bond, players must defeat the evil criminal mastermind Malprave, head of a rising terrorist organization that is bent on ruling the world with their clone technology and army of clones. Helping Bond along the way will be the gorgeous Zoe Nightshade and a cast of familiar characters. Each of the more than 10 exotic locations around the world will contain a generous offering of challenging missions and objectives.

The player can choose to blast their way through each level using hi-tech weaponry, quietly rely on spycraft tricks and gadgets to accomplish objectives - or do a little of both. The driving levels will offer an array of 007-inspired exotic cars and daredevil combat from the movies. Only through the clever utilization of Q-lab weapons and gadgets along with Bond-style wit, will the player be able to defeat Malprave's minions and get the girl.

The game will utilize next generation console technology to help bring to life the detailed 3-D environments such as a massive deep sea oil rig set atop a secret underwater base. Agent Under Fire will feature strikingly beautiful women characters and the thrilling Bond moments that distinguish the 007 films from all others.

Agent Under Fire for the PlayStation 2 will feature both single and up to four-player multiplayer split screen modes.