Call of Duty 4(Infinity Ward)

Taking this series into modern day seems like a natural move for developer Infinity Ward and with all of the real world conflict going on at present, this game can seem shocking at times. A story focusing on a Russian nuclear threat seems feasible and therefore more gripping while in no way glamourising war.
Controlling both a greenhorn SAS soldier and a US marine, it's up to you to diffuse the global threat. From storming Iraqi television stations to infiltrating Russian missile silos each of the missions are full of non-stop action where finding cover and using extreme caution are key to survival. This is no run'n'gun title, rather a team effort where your AI squadmates are every bit as valuable as you are. Boasting approximately 70 different types of armament the key to success lies in finding the right weapon for the job as each boasts very different handling. Claymore mines, night vision goggles and C4 add a tactical edge to encounters leaving the method entirely up to you.
A strong narrative and great voice acting makes this one of the most immersing FPS titles to date. You will genuinely feel for your fallen comrades and get into a panic when pinned down by machine gun fire as death comes easy. This is the must-have shooter for Christmas with easy to pick up controls, tons of content, gorgeous graphics and a killer online mode. [Dave Cook]