I opted to play on the 360, although the PC version was also available, and after I'd inverted the vertical aim axis, I got to the task of shooting the guys sitting around me. Noticeable almost immediately was the sense of speed the game offers. It truly is fast-paced, and it feels like a really polished old-school version of Quake Arena, without the arena. The weapons are also weighted well, and each weapon feels distinct, with different recoil and damage effects. And, if you're playing in the single player aspect of the game, you'll notice that the AI doesn't spawn in the same place but rather randomly.

Another great addition which helps immensely in multiplayer is the sentry turrets, powerful guns which shred the enemy as they approach your base. This means you can respawn with impunity, without having to worry about spawn-campers.

But above all of that is the Hyper Reality Visor (HRV), a specialist set of goggles (we're living in the near future here) which allows you to track your enemies as they run around the map.  You won't be able to switch this on and off as you please, it's more of a tool which gives you around 10 second bursts and helps you pick out your prey.

Another nice touch is the deathscreen - because we're playing computer-integrated soldiers, the last thing you see before you die is a blue-screen crash.  It's clever and fun, and a sign that although the developer says it's not taking itself too seriously, the game is. It's a true contender to the likes of BF:BC2 and the aforementioned MW2, but with a modest price tag, and a variety of game modes, it hopes to forge a new audience.

We're looking forward to getting more time with it, but if you're a MW2, BF:BC2 or even Borderlands player, then this game might just be the ticket. And for 1200 MS points, you really can't complain.

Make sure you check back soon to see our interview with Jared Gerritzen, where we discuss the game, the competition (such as Breach) and the future of digital distribution.

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