Uncharted: Drake's Fortune

Last time I checked (August, 1997), Lara Croft owned the playing field for games that involved runnin', gunnin', and treasure huntin'. Her expeditions took players to ancient ruins all over the world, unearthing lost artifacts, outwitting rival archaeologists(with guns) and constantly dying when trying to get the timing 'just right' on jumping ridiculous gaps.

I've had a long-held grudge against Lara. For 10 years, this posh, English hag never did anything I told her to do. I'd pray for hours and hours, "Please, Lara, just this once, jump where I'm pointing!", but the answer was always a stiff "No". For lack of better words, Lara has treated me like an irritating, passive-aggressive housewife that won't talk to you for forgetting to put the seat down.

So, it's time to divorce and go drinking with the guys!

That's where Naughty Dog's "Uncharted: Drake's Fortune" enters the scene.

The story follows the adventures of Nathan Drake. a quick-witted, rough and tumble, yet knowledgeable and likeable guy as he follows the treasure-trail of his direct ancestor: famous real-life explorer Sir Francis Drake.

As the game progresses, you learn that it just so happens that Nate isn't the only one who's on the trail for the fortune. The game throws its share of awesome twists, turns, rival treasure hunters, interesting puzzles, and platforming sections that don't feel broken a la 'Tomb Raider'!

I'm telling you right now, this game's worth it's weight in Mayan gold. The characters are all likeable, the little quips and jokes in the game are legitimately funny and entertaining. The story is fantastic. the graphics are A1. It feels like you're playing a "treasure hunt" movie like National treasure or Indiana Jones. The whole thing is movie material in its own original way. I believe that Sir Francis Drake himself would appreciate the game, were he alive today.

For the most part of the game, you find yourself Jumping gaps, crawling along ancient ruins, solving puzzles, and usually being shot at along the way. Thing about this is: It all sounds an awful lot like Tomb Raider, if it weren't for the witty humor, better climbing/jumping system, the "Gears of War/Grand Theft Auto IV" style cover system, and more involving story.

This game is a treasure among the other PS3 titles released before it. Naughty Dog's already working on a Sequel. This game deserves one.