Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare [X360]

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It isn't easy to stand out in the crowded World War II shooter genre, but anyone with a passion for sticking it to those pesky Nazis knows that Activision's Call of Duty franchise is among the best ever. Though it's often lauded for its compelling single-player scripting, the more hardcore fraggers have loudly sung the praises of its multiplayer, particularly in the award-winning Call of Duty 2, arguably the high water mark for the series.

But after spending some time watching fans tackle the upcoming Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare's multiplayer at a special hands-on promotional event Thursday night, that song of praise seems destined to turn into a roar of applause. Courtesy of a contest co-sponsored by Activision, ESPN, Gamestop and EB Games, about 75 lucky gamers from all across the country scored an all-expenses paid trip to Hollywood to be among the first to witness the awesome power of multiplayer Call of Duty 4 with some hands-on gameplay. And they didn't even have to buy any Wonka bars!

It might bear a familiar name, but Call of Duty 4 instantly stands out from past games in the series by leaving WWII in the dust. With its new contemporary setting come a slew of new features, many of which were on display in the nonstop eight on eight Team Deathmatch battles.

A new class system lets you customize your experience from the get go, helping further distinguish the maniac Rambos (Assault class) from the cautious campers (Sniper class). Though team play is encouraged, Call of Duty 4's combat system acknowledges individual effort by doling out cool buffs when players rack up kill streaks. Mow down three in a row? Then the whole team benefits from a 30 second enemy radar scan. A five streak unlocks a lethal air strike, while the rare seven streak nets your team a match-changing chopper. It's a great way to tie together the often contrary notions of team play and personal glory.