Max: Fair enough. I'm pretty pessimistic myself, and if you want my $40, you gotta impress me. The nice thing is that quite a few stores specializing in games allow you to return a game if you don't like it.

My impression of the game has been very positive. The level of detail in the game is truly astounding. After playing it for a bit, and then going on to other games, I really noticed how 'static' and 'bare' all the levels and areas I was in felt. Devastation has created a truly immersive, believable world, imo. I found it much easier to 'be there' than Unreal 2, for example. (which I returned to the store) Shooting off Eminem's arm and other body parts on several occasions were also very rewarding. (no offense to the real Eminem)

I do agree that the player models are a bit weak, and the sound needs work. I wonder if the developers cut those items back to allow them to put more in the levels themselves and to allow for the physics system. I think it's a fair trade off, and Arush has already shown their willingness to listen to the community.