TNR's Favorite Titles (Part 2)

My last entry covered TNR's favorite action title for the Playstation 3 console, and I find it interesting that the XBox 360 is actually significantly lacking in exclusive action/adventure titles the likes of Uncharted 2.  For that matter, Microsoft's system carries a low number of non market place produced platformer titles.  This is not to say that there are no action titles available for the 360, rather there are not many developers signing on to do exclusive contracts with Microsoft to produce these titles like they have with Sony.  Perhaps this has something to do with the overall market dominance of the long living PS2 system, but the fact stands that the best action title I have played for the 360 was released on both platforms simultaneously.  That game is Assassin's Creed: Brothehood.

Favorite Action/Adventure Title (XBox 360): Assassin's Creed:Brotherhood

TNR's last game review covered this title in great detail, so I will avoid a lengthy description of the title itself here.  To put it simply, ACB is a title that shows how much a franchise can evolve and improve itself with each release.  Ubisoft clearly listens to its fans and makes adjustments to their titles that will improve fan loyalty while growing their new consumer base.  ACB is more than just fan service, however.  With ACB, Ubisoft created a title that brings more closure to the currently available Assassin's creed titles while leaving room for subsequent sequels to be released. 

While many critics of the series viewed Brotherhood as nothing more than an overpriced expansion pack for AC2, I thought it was an excellent stand alone title.  Not much had changed in the way of artistic style or game mechanics, but the final product showed a higher level of polish than its predecessor.  Also, several of the original installments mechanics (i.e. flag collection quests) had been reintroduced to give hardcore collectors some more substance to play with.  In many cases, it is likely the best course of action to play AC2 and AC:Brotherhood in rapid succession to fully appreciate the changes. 

The question remains why is AC:Brotherhood my favorite action title for the 360?  Well, it is true that this game was released on multiple consoles with no change whatsoever from version to version, but none of the other titles I have played on Microsoft's console provide the level of depth or replay value that this one does.  Wrap that together with a robust story line, compelling voice acting, and a competitive and original multiplayer offering and I'm officially sold.  Perhaps the second half of 2011 will provide some higher quality action offerings, but after looking at the summer release schedule, I'm somewhat dubious.  Of course with nothing more than a shoestring budget and a Gamefly subscription, I may have to pick and choose.