Killzone 3

For starters, this isn't Halo, and this isn't Call of Duty. A lot of players buy this game with preconceptions of what to expect, and end up disappointed. However, if it's going to receive comparisons, then I suppose you could say it resembles CoD in part of its gameplay, but that's where it all ends. Killzone 3 continues the storyline set by the previous games, and introduces some new characters with dynamic personalities and likability. Some you fall in love with, others you hate for most of the game. But that just makes it interesting. The weapons and battles are amazing, and the level of detail to the landscape and graphics is stunning, even by today's standards (though it only came out two years ago). This is the first in the series that I've played, though I've watched my friends play the previous games, and hadn't seen any of Killzone 3's gameplay, so I decided to buy it on a whim. It didn't let me down. It has some really awesome moments, and other instances that'll have you saying "Holy crap" over and over. In anticipation of Killzone 4, which comes out later this year on the PS4, I highly, highly recommend buying K3 on Amazon or somewhere cheap (I got mine for $12). You'll be glad you did. It's a beautiful game that will have you back on the campaign trail over and over (and the multiplayer aspect is pretty sweet too).

After finishing Killzone 2 back in 2009, I was really looking forward to its sequel, Killzone 3. I had high hopes that it would bring better graphics and smoother gameplay, and thankfully, it didn't disappoint.

The story picks up right after the events of Killzone 2. Scolar Visari is dead, and the Helghast are out for revenge against the ISA. Our heroes in Alpha Squad must face fierce battles to survive and ensure an escape from the hostile Helghan. It's a classic setup but one that works well enough to keep you engaged.

In terms of gameplay, it's a first-person shooter that feels familiar if you've played the previous game. This time, you're more on the defensive rather than the all-out offensive. The adrenaline rush from those intense moments is still there, and I found it exhilarating. The cutscenes, featuring some actors from the UK, add a nice touch to the story, although I've seen some folks say they're a bit over the top. Personally, I didn't mind at all.

Graphics were already impressive in Killzone 2, but Killzone 3 takes it a step further. Guerrilla Games has done a stellar job making the PS3 shine. The weapons feel great, and while there are some new additions, nothing revolutionary stands out. The soundtrack complements the action perfectly, enhancing the overall experience.

The game does follow a linear level design, somewhat reminiscent of Call of Duty's campaign. However, I found Killzone 3 to be a step up from its predecessor. The only major downside? The campaign is surprisingly short; I wrapped it up in just 4½ hours on normal difficulty. That was a bit of a letdown for a AAA title. Luckily, I used a gift certificate to buy it, so at least the financial sting wasn't there.

There's a multiplayer mode that I didn't dive into, as I'm not much of a multiplayer person. But overall, Killzone 3 is a solid experience, earning a respectable 8/10 from me. It's a real shame that Guerrilla has moved on from this franchise, but hey, times change.

Here's hoping for a return of Killzone someday!