Uncharted 3 is yet another quality adventure by those who brought us our last two adventures with Nathan Drake.
I'll begin by saying that if you haven't played the first two games, I wouldn't recommend skipping to the third as Uncharted 3 begins very bluntly leaving little to no back-story from the other two games, leaving you clueless on what the characters have been through together, and how they know each other.
The gameplay of Uncharted 3 is definitely something to talk about. The aiming controls feel a little stiff compared to the last two Uncharted games, but it certainly isn't a game-breaker and it needs some getting used to. The shootouts seem a little more frequent and large-scale which may be seen as good and bad. But Uncharted 3 simply feels a little too combat-focused and the amount of enemies is relentless. Combat as little variety to offer, but when it does want to mix things up, it's a blast. On a positive note, the enemy AI is smarter and won't hold themselves back poking their heads out at you for you to shoot. This time they won't be afraid to charge at you if they get close enough, and using melee in these situations is much more useful and not as risky as it is in the other games. Sometimes you will experience some very large-scale moments that prove that Uncharted 3 is far superior to the average game, adrenaline-packed sequences of near impossible stunts and over-the-top escape scenes are fantastically woven, but are over far too quick.
The visuals are absolutely gorgeous and are the highlights of Uncharted 3. Every scene in the game is greatly detailed and rarely will you find a visual flaw. The animations are barely improved from the second game, but still offer an impressive show. The only thing I found lacking from the graphical experience was the fact the game didn't contain the use of motion blur, which would have added great realism to the experience.
The story is where the game does some good and bad. It certainly fits the classic adventure style that Uncharted is known for, but a few large plot holes will leave you wondering and makes the story not quite as satisfying as Uncharted 2, but the ending is much more superior to other games', and the last few sequences are very exciting.
The online multiplayer is also one of the game's strong points. Compared to Uncharted 2, this sequel's multiplayer raises the bar on its multiplayer depth. Tons of things to unlock, action-packed battles that never feel repetitive, and the game even features its own mini Co-Op story which you may either choose to play online or split-screen with a friend.
The good:
-Uncharted 3's visuals are the most impressive part of the show, rarely flawed. Detailed environments will force you to walk slowly no matter what kind of gamer you are.
-Explosive set piece sequences are fantastic and are adrenaline-packed.
-Even more character depth is revealed to a satisfying extent.
-Enemy AI is vastly improved.
-Online multiplayer is much more refined, deep and engaging.
The bad:
-Story is littered with plot holes that will really disorient you by the end.
-The character Chloe Frazer is under-utilized.
-Far too many shootouts and enemies really slow down the pace and feel like they are only there to delay you.
Uncharted 3 is a great experience that almost meets its predecessor, Uncharted 2. Make sure you pick up the first two games before playing, they are definitely worth it and increase the enjoyment of Uncharted 3.