Uncharted 2: Among Thieves Review

(PS3; $59.99; Rated T for Blood/Language/Suggestive Themes/Violence; www.unchartedthegame.com)
(five stars)

Everything that was fantastic about the original "Uncharted" returns in its sequel "Among Thieves." Namely, players can expect huge action set pieces, big explosions, exciting gun fights, and rock-solid visuals.  Everything that needed revision from the first game- more engaging puzzle exploration, improved combat, and a less-hokey third act- has been improved, making "Uncharted 2" the most solid action-platformer since... well... since August's "Batman: Arkham Asylum."

But before that, you had to go back to 2007's "Uncharted" to play something this solid.

Honestly, if you can only afford to purchase "Batman" or "Uncharted 2," I don't envy you.  My advice is to go with your gut: do you like stealthy superheroes or Indiana Jones better?

Familiar faces and voices all return for this Hollywood-level blockbuster as roguish, opportunist/treasure hunter Nathan Drake seeks the lost fortune of Marco Polo.  As if being shot at by terrorists and chased by helicopters wasn't bad enough, Drake also has to juggle the affections of his current partner-in-crime with that of "last year's model" war-time journalist, Elena Fisher.

But when you're the rough-and-tumble handsome-type like Drake, that comes with the territory.

The pacing of "Uncharted 2" is brilliant- with intense action sequences followed by quiet, environmental platforming sections that allow players to take in just how beautiful every piece of artwork is.  The pacing, engaging story, incredible motion-capture and voice acting make the game all too easy to play for hours just to see what's around the next corner.

And when its all said and done, "Uncharted 2" adds an online multiplayer and cooperative mode to keep players returning for more.  The multiplayer takes everything that's great about cover-based shooting, ala "Gears of War," and gives it verticality.  Yes, this is a platforming shooter, and it works surprisingly well.

For a thrill-ride of an adventure, and for a game that's as much fun to watch as it is to play, "Uncharted 2" is the best first-party title on the PS3.