Last week, during a EA press function, I had the opportunity to get an up close-and-personal look at the first Bond adventure slated for release on the PlayStation 2. Despite my familiarity with the success of Goldeneye, I've always been somewhat of a first-person shooter newbie. In fact, it wasn't until the release of The World is Not Enough that I became truly captivated with the video game adaptions of the Bond franchise. After a short engagement at E3 with the newest title starring the international superspy, I've been waiting anxiously for more details, and most importantly - the chance to finally play the game in its completed form. Making its grand debut on the PlayStation 2 platform, James Bond 007 in Agent Under Fire is the first Bond title to exclusively offer players a completely new, original storyline designed to deliver a truly exciting and immersive experience.

Staying true to Bond legacy, players will be thrust into a rich, dynamic storyline keeping them immersed from start to finish. As Bond, you'll set out on a mission to prevent a crimminal mastermind known as Malprave from taking over the world through the use of cloning technology. With the aid of Zoe Nightshade, the vixen "Bond Girl" in this videogame episode, players will journey to 10 exotic locations, each with their own distinctive challenges and objectives. Using sharp reflexes and guile, it's up to you to stop Malprave and save the world -- before it's too late. (And let's not forget those fringe benefits for saving the girl *wink, wink*)

As expressed earlier, Agent Under Fire features an original storyline, thus players can look forward to encountering a new cast of characters (M and Q are of course, featured in the game). While previous Bond editions have solely focused on FPS action, Agent Under Fire adds a refreshing degree of diversity, featuring a balanced mixture of action, stealth, and driving - thus delivering a unique, immersive experience. You'll encounter a host of new and familiar characters, in addition to an abundant degree of action-packed moments which will distinguish the 007 films from all others. And of course, no Bond adventure can be complete without an ample dose of gadgets, sophisticated spy-craft, and very sensual women!

Agent Under Fire features 12 single player levels set throughout the globe. Sharp shooters can look forward to a bevy of impressive visuals, boasting highly 3D detailed enviroments, such as the massive deep sea oil rig stationed atop a secret underwater base. In true Bond fashion, you can choose to blast your way through each level using hi-tech weaponry, or opt for a more stealthier approach through the use of your Q-lab gadgets. It should be noted that each mission has a specific set of objectives and players will be rewarded for their style of play, giving you access to bonus items such as more powerful weapons and an expanded roster of exotic vehicles.

Speaking of which, the driving levels are definitely a nice touch. Players who experienced the unfortunate experience of 007 Racing needn't worry about botchy collision and responsiveness. Those days are long gone, as Agent Under Fire adopts the same engine and mechanics incorporated in the Need for Speed series. The phsyics are very solid and realistic...not high on the simulation factor, so should you bang up the Aston Martin DB5 manipulating those high speed curves in pursuit of the crimminal element...don't worry, only Q will be the one to complain. Every driving level will keep you glued to the screen, fast and intense...and of course, your vehicle is equipped with the finest firepower to cut the crimminal element down to size. Make no mistake - this is the real "Spy Hunter" experience! Additional levels will put you behind the wheel of the BMW Z8, BMW 750 IL, and even a Romanian Army Tank (ah...memories of Pierce Bronsan's tank scene in Tomorrow Never Dies comes to mind! While the single-player mode is full of challenges and appeal, Agent Under Fire also offers a multiplayer mode (which I of course, did not have the opportunity to experience), supporting up to four players at once. Perhaps this latest edition could unseat Goldeneye from its throne.

Without a doubt, hardcore fans of the Bond and first-person shooter genre alike will be totally amazed with Agent Under Fire. You haven't experienced a Bond video game adventure quite like this, until now. PS2 owners are highly recommended to pick this game up, as you won't find it coming to a theatre near you. T-10 days and counting, mark your calendars, cancel those online RPG sessions and make way for the release of Agent Under Fire on November 13th.

For your edification, be sure to hit the stylish, official website for Agent Under Fire located at www.007.ea.com. Stay up to date with the latest info, get a behind-the-scenes look at the concept art, oogle at the latest screenshots of various game levels, or marvel at the action-filled media and much, much more! Look for an upcoming hands-on review to follow shortly after the game's release.

· · · Bahn