Gamers have been eagerly waiting to rev up their chainsaws and dive into the intensity of Gears of War 2, the sequel to one of the most praised sci-fi shooters for the Xbox 360. With a cinematic storyline, an expanded multiplayer package and enhanced visuals, Gears of War 2 brings another action-packed experience to the table.

Gears of War introduced Marcus Fenix and his fellow soldiers, known as “Gears,” who fought against a force of subterranean monsters called the Locust Horde. Though the game play was excellent, Gears 1 lacked a solid storyline, leaving many questions unanswered.

Thankfully, Gears 2 adds a lot more depth to the story and makes you feel like you’re in a sci-fi action movie. Though it still leaves many loose ends to be tied up in the next installment, it does answer some essential questions that were never addressed in the first game. Gears 2 gives its audience a better idea of where the Locust Horde came from and adds more depth and emotion to the previously dull characters.  

With this addition of a solid storyline, the game play really shines. Gears 2 overall seems “bigger” than its predecessor as battles take place on a larger scale and allow more units on screen at a time. Players will regularly fight against huge monsters that made only brief appearances in the first game. However, some of these boss battles are a little too easy.

Increasing the brutality of combat, Gears 2 has added more gruesome execution moves and new opportunities to use the famous “chainsaw bayonet.” In Gears 2, players can either “curb-stomp” wounded enemies or pick them up as a “meat-shield,” using their wounded body as cover from enemy fire. Gamers can now have chainsaw duels as well, rapidly tapping the “B” button to defeat their opponent and shred them with their assault rifle’s chainsaw attachment.

All of this action would be limited if it were not for a unique online multiplayer experience. Gears 2 offers new games including renditions of capture the flag and king of the hill, as well as Horde, a mode that throws waves of enemies at a team of players, each with increasing difficulty. 

Gears 2 contains new multiplayer maps as well, two of which have environmental factors that completely change the game play, such as “razor hail” that rips players to pieces if they stay out in the open.

The original Gears had some great looking environments that really showcased the graphical superiority of the game. Gears 2 takes this a step further with more diverse maps including ominous caves and frozen forests that are nothing short of breath-taking. Sometimes, it’s satisfying to just take a second and stare at the expanse of never-ending terrain.

Returning Gears of War fans as well as newcomers will be equally satisfied by the cinematic gaming experience that Gears 2 has to offer.