pandemic

Good topic.  It's become one of the most predictable element in any video game release, and stands out as a mark of non-innovation with game developers.  Seriously though, I don't think I've ever actually encountered a barrel full of oil in real life.

Appreciate the answers.  I just find it odd that Square Enix is releasing two very high budget games at once.  I don't think I've seen anyone do that before with two related games like that.

With so many of the Metal Gear games (especially 4), I've seen reviews characterize the over-abundant cutscenes as being on par with top Hollywood movies.

Really?

The dramatic camera angles, the over-drawn dialogue, exaggerated gestures...I don't know.  Kojima is definitely one of the best game makers out there, but his penchant for melodrama is a little annoying sometimes.  Anyone agree?

Are the plots points for each game related to one another, or are they just two completely unrelated animals?

"I really think it was innovative, and something that should be considered a standard in most FPS now."

This object could definitely use some fleshing out.  I've added COD4, but there are probably more than a hundred other games that we can stick under here.