Medal of Honor gave players a realistic portrayal of the Normandy Invasion.
Today, on Memorial Day, our service men and women are recognized for their bravery and courage throughout history. Many of our soldiers have given the greatest sacrifice, and games, although at their core are made for entertainment and money, can both represent and honor the horror and tribulations experienced in war. Here are some of my favorite games in honor of Memorial Day, not restricted to the 360:
- Medal of Honor: Allied Assault (PC)
This game takes a large share of blame for starting the massive amount of WWII shooters in gaming today, but it is a classic. The Normandy Invasion mission is etched into the player's brain, taking cues from the opening battle scene of the movie "Saving Private Ryan" and the epic beach invasion is fully represented, with all the gore, blood and savagery. I remember dying multiple times only progressing inches across the beach, either getting killed outright upon landing or zig-zagging across the beach as machine gun nests tore up sand and soldiers alike. It's a faithful representation and makes you appreciate the effort of those who were involved.
- Full Spectrum Warrior (XBOX, PC, PS2)
One of the most realistic views about the conflicts in the Middle East that relies heavily on team mechanics such as suppression and flanking. Following true combat, you can only sustain a limited amount of damage before dying, and every squad member that's lost can be a major downfall for your squad. The game can be somewhat tedious for non-strategy fans, as firefights can be long and drawn out as you sit behind cover awaiting your opportunity, but it is rewarding to pull of a successful battle without any losses.
- Brothers in Arms (Mutliplatform)
Much like Full Spectrum Warrior, this game relies heavily on tactics than blind run-and-gun action. It is based off the true story of the 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment and their march through Europe from landing. As you progress, you're given backstory on every character, adding to the remose and regret as your bretheren fall in battle.
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (PS3, XBOX 360, PC)
An obvious choice given the popularity, but a great first person shooter that, instead of one perspective, shows you multiple perspectives of soldiers in battle. In one scene during the game, you're given a very scary and realistic view of the worst situation for anyone, civilian or soldier. The multiplayer is the mainstay of the series, and like most online games, can have some annoying and offensive players.
- Blazing Angels II: Secret Missions of WWII (XBOX 360, PS3, PC)
Although somewhat on the ridiculous side at some points, it is an arcade flying game that's simple but fun. It feels similar to "Crimson Skies: High Road to Revenge" for the original XBOX. You focus on staying airborne and shooting opposed to complicated flying mechanics such as chasing an enemy fighter by pulling a 90° climb without having to worry about pesky physics and gravity. It has multiplayer, but at this point it's rare to find anyone online and although you have a lot of couch co-op options, it would've been nice to play through the complete campaign with a friend opposed to individual missions.
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