Playing A Game Uncharted 2: Among Thieves PS3

The controls still suck. That's the disappointing thing about Uncharted 2 -- there are still too many moments where Drake rolls instead of ducks, or falls instead of jumps. But - to great effect - this installment makes much smarter choices about story pacing and encounter lengths, so the thrilling narrative can really shine through.

The gameplay hasn't really changed, but more well-designed environments, including a few genuinely great combat arenas, remove almost all of the chore-like feelings I got from the first game. There are a few fights where unreasonable bullet-sponges with shotguns make the game more frustrating than it needs to be, but in general it really feels like a very competent third-person shooter.

And as before, the writing, acting, cinematic direction, and soundtrack are all top-notch. This is the best storytelling in the industry. If it wasn't for the fact that the gameplay is about a smartass treasure hunter shooting hundreds of neo-Nazis, it might really convince people that video game stories can be taken seriously.

Better than: Uncharted: Drake's Fortune
Not as good as: BioShock
A better Indiana Jones: than the last Indiana Jones movie

Progress: Finished on Normal

Rating: Good