James Bond 007: Everything or Nothing [PS2]

Dames, danger, and double entendres... these are the elements that every James Bond adventure thrives on. Remove any part of this equation -- or upset its fragile stability, as did previous outing Nightfire -- and the associated tale suffers accordingly. Having learned its lesson the hard way, Electronic Arts is back for another crack. Packing serious star power, astounding production values, and surprisingly entertaining gameplay, Everything or Nothing delivers on all relevant counts, providing for a rousing escapade that ranks among the best to feature Her Majesty's finest.

The product succeeds because it feels more like a film and less like a game. Beginning with an action-packed prologue that sees the titular superspy forcibly interrupt a nuclear arms deal, the plot charts its course forward in much the same way a movie would. Interludes, transition scenes, romantic asides, and waltzes through the Q Lab await players, who'll even enjoy a rousing intro sequence complete with theme song and artful background visuals.

Cameos and voice-overs from celebrated thespians including Pierce Brosnan, Willem Dafoe, Judi Dench, Shannon Elizabeth, and John Cleese add to the game's assets, as do appearances from singer Mya and model Heidi Klum. Look closely, and you'll also find familiar franchise villains such as Jaws on the cast.

Though divided into various and sundry third-person vignettes, play never comes off as contrived, because each scenario is skillfully integrated into the script. Shifts between non-interactive scenes and the active mission pursuit are likewise complementary, always careful to avoid jarring the onlooker or disrupting one's suspension of disbelief. Sit down for a quick session and when you finally drop the controller, you'll find that hours have passed... the game is just that riveting.

Extras like fabulous controls and fantastic gadgets further enhance the program's cachet. Hugging walls, sniping baddies, sneaking up and slamming adversaries' heads into the ground -- all of these actions are easily done. With swapping weapons and activating high-tech gear such as spider bombs and sleep darts intuitive, you'll find the interface a welcome addition. Auto-targeting options keep frustration levels at a minimum as well, so you can focus on accomplishing objectives without undue angst.

Vehicular levels, which pop up on occasion, operate on a similar principle. If you can manipulate a joystick and a few buttons, you're in good shape. Focusing on exotic, high-end models like Porsche roadsters and the Triumph Daytona motorcycle (aka the Q-Bike), these diversions make a great break from the standard run-and-gun encounters. Serving up mission objectives that include dodging enemy patrols, intercepting enemy transports, and escaping from pursuing thugs, it's doubtful audiences will find fault with a single one.

Numerous little special touches also enhance the proceedings. So-called "Bond moments" can be invoked on each stage, which result in bonus cutscenes and flashy effects. Statistical data on your performance is also tracked through every conflict, and scoring well lets you unlock rewards including new weapons, production stills, and combat upgrades. Pleasing, but not earth-shattering, co-operative and competitive multiplayer variations are also offered beyond the single-player campaign. PlayStation 2 owners will benefit most from these options, as they'll be able to connect with friends online.

One downside is that the solo endeavor can quickly be blown through in a handful of sessions. Though the default difficulty setting rests just where it should, experienced gamers won't find themselves struggling on any count. A commendable save system, which lets you quickly restart following unforeseen mishaps, is almost too much of a boon. Tackling episodes for a second, third, or even 15th time, is such a casual affair, it's not like you'll ever switch the system off in frustration, hence the game's limited longevity.

Everything or Nothing features a tremendous audio-visual presentation. Large characters, fluid animation, and backdrops so detailed you can see the sun glisten off placid waterways, all serve to make this the best-looking Bond game ever. Flame, explosion, and gunshot effects bolstered by slow-mo cameras that track your coolest moves are enough to have even jaded players salivating. Vocal performances are equally phenomenal, and the supporting score and ambient sound effects will send chills up your spine. Overall this is a shining example of how cinematic productions can be integrated into games.

Truly a title that hobbyists of every ilk can enjoy, Everything or Nothing is a high point for licensed gaming. Though not a classic outright, the title follows in the equally stirring The Lords of the Rings: The Return of the King's footsteps, becoming yet another thoroughbred in Electronic Arts' stable. Proof that a home console can offer fare that rivals productions intended for the silver screen, it's a welcome addition to any discerning gamer's personal collection.