It’s without a doubt that the Modern Warfare titles are the biggest of the Call of Duty franchise. The original has sold more than 13 million copies and Modern Warfare 2 is well on its way with 4.7 million in the first 24 hours alone, making it the biggest entertainment launch in history. But does the game live up to all the hype or is it a simple money making sequel for Activision and Infinity Ward?

Continuing from where the previous game left off, Russian Ultranationalists have declared Zakhaev a national hero and martyr. Vladimir Makarov has stepped up to fill the shoes of his fallen leader and begins a reign of terror against Europe and the Americas. Players will assume the roles of various characters including a Sergeant Gary “Roach” Sanderson of Task Force 141, undercover CIA agent Joseph Allen, and Private James Ramirex of the 75^th Ranger Regiment, among others. Their missions will take you around the world to Afghanistan, Brazil, and even the United States. Yes, the war will be brought home and battles will take place in the White House itself.

Modern Warfare 2 pushes the boundaries of the gaming experience with emotional and rather controversial storylines and gameplay. While I won’t spoil any details, the game exemplifies the fact that war is not a pretty sight. Coupled with music by famous composer Hans Zimmer, playing through the levels is quite an exhilarating experience.

While the single player campaign is surprisingly short, lasting only around five hours, it is satisfying. Excellent cinematics, plot twists, and a few jaw dropping sequences, the game has everything of a Hollywood blockbuster.

In addition to single player, there are multiple Special Ops missions to tackle. These can either be done solo or with a partner and will have you completing specific objectives to earn a star ranking. Driving snowmobiles, sneaking past enemy troops, and tackling entire armies are just a few of the missions available. They’re decently fun but can become repetitive after a while. Earning all 69 stars will not only take phenomenal expertise in the game but patience too.

The single player campaign, the Special Ops missions; these all mean nothing when compared to the main reason everyone bought Modern Warfare 2; the multiplayer. Those familiar with Modern Warfare’s experience point system and reward system will be pleased to know that it remains the same for the sequel.

There are a variety of different multiplayer modes to choose from including Free-For-All, Team Deathmatch, and Capture the Flag. In addition, there are a few new modes such as the ability to play from the third person perspective, a first for the Call of Duty series. Killstreak rewards have been increased to a total of 15 and range from Predator missiles to complete airstrikes. Let’s not forget the perks you can upgrade your character with on the battlefield.

The depth of multiplayer is amazing but at the same time, can be frustrating, especially for those new to the game. While you can jump into a game with predetermined classes, experienced (and better equipped) players will have no trouble in shooting you down. Prepare to die a lot in the beginning.

Matches are capped off at 9v9 so games tend to be on the small side. The different maps available are decent and offer separate playing styles whether you’re the type who likes to snipe or run-and-gun. There’s no doubt that Modern Warfare 2’s multiplayer will be played for years to come, it just could have been better.

So, to answer the question asked in the beginning. Does Modern Warfare 2 live up to all the hype? Truthfully, no, but it comes pretty close. The single player campaign is an experience like no other but it’s quite easy to tell that the main focus of the game was on the multiplayer. With all the unlockable rewards and challenges to accomplish, you will no doubt be spending hours upon hours playing this game.