But you probably didn't come just for the single-player either. In that case you're in luck. Modern Warfare gained a lot of notoriety as the game that took the LIVE crown away from Halo. Modern Warfare 2 cements the series' place as the preeminent online shooter across both consoles: 360 and PS3. On PC it still holds its own but forcing matchmaking on a community that relishes its ability to choose will turn some away. No two ways around it.

Sixteen maps for competitive play ship with the game and they provide plenty of diversity to keep matches fresh for a while. Modes run the expected gamut from classic Free-for-All to Headquarters with the team-based variants still the most fun. The level advancement system returns along with the unlocks that let you access new weapons and perks. And while much concern was raised over the death streak perks they seemed to work as intended to help those who hit a bad streak get back in the game without throwing things completely out of balance.

With the new cooperative Spec Ops mode developer Infinity Ward hit the perfect compliment that completes the multiplayer offering. Born out of the speed runs fans took to making on the "Mile High" level that followed the credits in Modern Warfare, these mini-missions task you, and a partner if you want, with a variety of objectives. Some are as easy as defending an area from attack; others as offbeat as a snowmobile time trial. And nothing beats manning the side chain gun on a helicopter covering your partner on the ground as they try to advance.

More than ever before multiplayer is what Modern Warfare 2 is all about. Just looking at the volume of content alone makes the readily apparent. But it's more than that. Single-player isn't bad by any stretch; it packs the expected flash and offers plenty of opportunities to blow stuff up in grand style. There's also no denying the sense, heightened by how quickly you'll reach its end, that it also serves as a tune-up for the multiplayer main event.  With the competitive modes to drive your obsession and Spec Ops as the perfect palate cleanser it's entirely likely Modern Warfare 2 might be the only thing many play for the next several months.