As COBRA unleashes its deadliest plot yet, the G.I. JOE Team is counting on you and your hand-picked team of heroes to lead the counterattack. Every mission is critical and so is every G.I. JOE character. Picking up where the Paramount Pictures live action film leaves off, G.I. JOE The Rise of Cobra is an accessible third person action-arcade shooter that allows players to recreate and relive the greatest moments from the film, cartoon series and action toy line. Exclusive all-new storyline that picks up where the film ends and is inspired by 45 years of rich G.I.JOE history. Two player co-op lets players choose an elite team and call in support from other G.I. JOE characters. Choose from 16 playable characters (four of which are unlockable COBRA characters) - each with a unique set of abilities and weapons. G.I. JOE characters include Snake Eyes, Duke, Heavy Duty, Ripcord, Scarlett, Shipwreck and Gung Ho. Storm Shadow has been revealed as an unlockable playable COBRA character. Characters are classified into one of three units: Commandos who do well at close range, Heavys who possess extraordinary shooting skills but do it best from a distance and Combat Soldiers who are a balance between the two. Gear up with the latest in high-tech gadgets like the film-inspired Accelerator Suit which makes you invincible and gives you short bursts of additional fire power. Drivable G.I. JOE and COBRA vehicles designed for two-player co-op. Three difficulty levels - appealing to players of all ages and skill levels (Casual, Advanced and Hardcore). 20 levels - each with 3-5 areas to explore - across four environments. 75 file cards and various intelligence items hidden throughout the game which can be used to unlock additional playable characters, special missions, 4 PSAs and other bonus content.

The Good

If you are looking for an old-school ‘Contra-like’ experience, this game will certain fulfill that need.  I found most of my enjoyment from playing couch co-op with my neighbor.  Playing like this allows you to have more fun and also gives you a more nostalgic experience.

•    Familiar characters bring back old-school Joe nostalgia.
•    In-game music really sets the game tone.
•    Co-op mode is addicting and fun.
•    Game plays like a modern Contra at a fast pace.

The Bad

The primary problem with this game is the targeting system, which is very broken.  You will often shoot barrels or walls when you want to be shooting enemies.  A quick flick of the right thumbstick will change targets, but it only works really well in certain situations.  With less predictable enemies, an online co-op mode, better camera angles and a decent targeting system, this would have been a really great game in my opinion.

•    Each mission feels a bit repetitive.
•    The targeting system is completely broken.  You will often find yourself shooting at barrels or power-ups instead of the enemy.
•    No online co-op!
•    Sloppy camera angles.

Graphics/Audio 20/25

While there’s nothing ground-breaking here, the graphics and audio work just fine in my opinion.  My only concern in the visuals department comes from the funny camera angles.

Gameplay 15/25

Gameplay is where this title really suffers.  While it is fast-paced and fun, the targeting system and repetitive gameplay weakens the experience.  There are 3 levels of play that offer quite a bit of challenge on the harder levels, yet not enough challenge on the easiest setting.

Creativity 15/25

There’s nothing too creative here.  The game feels like a modern take on Contra and doesn’t introduce anything we haven’t seen before in other games.

Fun Factor 20/25

Fun and nostalgia are where this game really shines.  The most fun comes from couch co-op with a friend, but the game is still fun solo as well.  Had they added an online co-op to the mix, my feelings toward this game would have been much stronger.

In the End 70/100

Coming from me, a 70 is still a decent game.  While the game does have it’s flaws, there are plenty of things that redeemed it for me.  I feel like this game will probably have more appeal for the old-school 1980s Joe fans like myself.  Younger gamers may be looking for something more…

PSN Themes: