Chaotic conflict

PC

Call of Duty 2, Activision, MA15+, $90, * * * *

This exhilarating and atmospheric World War II action game does little to advance the run-and-gun genre, but it is a memorable experience. The removal of a health bar is the most significant change and players now recover from damage by hiding. Coupled with a generous checkpoint system, it means there are fewer distractions to break the illusion of chaotic conflict.

The 27 cinematic missions include flushing bunkers, restoring communications, flanking manoeuvres and blowing up tanks. There are many spectacular, shocking and breathtaking moments. Players have more freedom and multiple routes, but progress through most levels remains linear. Welcome interludes include the chance to command a tank, shoot from speeding vehicles and use binoculars to pinpoint mortar fire. Smoke grenades are a great addition, making it possible to escape from enemy traps. Multiplayer modes should prove popular.

PS2

The Incredibles: Rise of the Underminer, also Xbox, GameCube, PC, THQ, PG, $70, * * ½

Pixar is not planning a sequel to its wonderful superhero flick, letting gamers continue the story. But while young fans will enjoy this brief two-player adventure, the underground environments and robotic opponents lack variety and imagination. Players switch between Frozone and Mr Incredible while fighting the Underminer's mechanical minions. The superheroes' different strengths must be used to overcome obstacles and adversaries.

Mr Incredible packs a punch for smashing opponents and barriers, and can hurl objects. Frozone builds ice bridges, freezes opponents and ice surfs in mid-air. Duties include destroying robots, deactivating defences, rescuing scientists and defeating the Underminer in a lengthy battle. In a rare change of pace, players protect a bumbling robot. Bonus levels offer more repetitive brawling.

Xbox

Star Wars Battlefront II, also PS2, PC, PSP, Electronic Arts, M, $90, * * * *

Adding popular heroes and villains plus spaceship combat, this terrific sequel lets fans recreate epic Star Wars battles. Games are a fluctuating tug-of-war for territory featuring hundreds of adversaries. Players can now control Obi-Wan, Han Solo, Luke Skywalker and Yoda or explore their dark sides with Darth Vader and Boba Fett. The heroes are powerful, but battles on the 24 maps remain balanced thanks to limitations on their use.

Space conflict complements ground-based action beautifully and jumping into the cockpit of an X-wing or TIE fighter is thrilling. Online action remains the most fun because of teamwork-built camaraderie and new modes, but connection lag can spoil the party. Fortunately, the solo experience has been improved, with a compelling series of objective-based Clone Wars missions supplementing the deeper Galactic Conquest mode.