Think more evil twin than brother's keeper in this globetrotting tale of bloodshed and greed, starring metal death mask-sporting mercenaries Salem and Rios, who leave the Army Rangers to explore lives as soldiers of fortune. Big, dumb and more than a little partial to chest-thumping machismo, our heroes emphasize dual-pronged tactics over straightforward run-and-gun engagements. As a result, tag-teaming the "see-it, shoot-it" adventure with friends can be enjoyable, but it's a little too juvenile for its own good. The game is ultimately low-budget male wish fulfillment, with high production values trumping setup or sophistication.

Novel mechanics -- including "Aggro," which causes enemies to focus firepower upon the most high-profile targets -- and options for carrying wounded partners to safety, add impact and strategic depth. Scenarios are surprisingly tactical, demanding that you employ your partner (controllable by CPU or gullible friend) to draw enemy fire or play moving shield. Despite offsetting the testosterone-drenched commentary and constant atmosphere of back-slapping "ooh-ah!" antics, a short solo campaign and several quirks (e.g. canned back-to-back fighting sequences) detract from overall sophistication. Assuming you enjoy the odd Rambo flick or "Stone Cold" Steve Austin vehicle, fire away; There's plenty here to enjoy if you can switch your brain into low gear and your trigger finger into overdrive. The 'roided-up heroes' ultra-violent antics prove that teamwork still pays, primarily in body count.