Developer: Sony Online Entertainment Publisher: Sony Online Entertainment Platform: Microsoft Windows Released: November 20, 2012 Genre: MMO FPS

Recommended system specifications

OS: Windows 7 Processor: Intel i5 processor or higher / AMD Phenom II X6 or higher Memory: 8GB RAM Hard drive: 15GB free Video memory: 1,024 MB RAM Video card: nVidia GeForce GTX 500 series or higher / AMD HD 6870 or higher Sound card: DirectX 11 compatible

Ratings Story: 8/10 Design: 9.0/10 Gameplay: 9.3/10 Presentation: 9.3/10 Overall Score: 8.9/10

The recently-released PlanetSide 2 is a superior feat in first-person online shooters.

Taking the concept of MMO shooters, PlanetSide 2 pits you into a never-ending battle between three separate factions on the planet of Auraxis, as you struggle to gain control of territories with the help of your squad mates.

The key factor here is PlanetSide 2’s massive scale, as you are literally deployed on an enormous battlefield with thousands of players, right from the get-go. The fights are persistent and absolutely insane, with up to 2,000 soldiers from all sides engaged in combat on a single continent.

You can choose from a number of different classes, such as the light and heavy assault gunner, the engineer, or the medic and can switch between them within the game. Combat revolves around teamwork and vehicles, and there is an upgrade system in place that allows you to level up and become more effective on the battlefield.

Additionally, weapons and ammo can also be purchased, and you’ll also have access to certification points that provide special abilities and upgrades to your character.

The game does require you to grind a fair bit in order to become more effective, and you will at times be both overwhelmed and annoyed at the sheer difference in levels with other players; don’t be surprised if you get sniped just seconds after you spawn for the first time.

However, the teamwork and grand scale of the battles that you take part in brings a great deal of satisfaction and entertainment when playing online, especially with a trusty group of friends.

The system requirements for the game may be a bit steep, but the game delivers wonderfully in terms of visuals, and the open-ended player-driven nature of battle makes PlanetSide 2 a frenetic and highly enjoyable experience for game parties and groups of players.