25 to Life...Should It Be Boycotted?

25 to Life was recently released and is proving to be a game that either really angers people or a game that people really enjoy. But before we get into that, I will review the game itself. Here is my take on it.

In 25 to life, you can either play as a police officer on a task force or as a thug that is trying to rise up in the ranks to be the biggest gangster around. As one character you try to hold up the law and eventually infiltrate a drug lord's estate. As the other character you break out of prison and try to defend your turf from rival gangsters.

The world you play in is highly realistic and interactive. As you sneak around, dogs will bark, car alarms will go off, and pedestrians will get in your way. All of this makes it a bit more difficult for you to successfully achieve your goals. It makes the game a tad more difficult.

Your player is fully customizable with regards to hair style, clothing, looks, and weapons. There are over 40 lethal and non lethal weapons available.

The sound track is quite good for those of you who actually like rap. It features excellent hip hop and rap music from the past and present.

Now for the part that makes people question this game. Apparently, the fact that you can play as a thug and kill police officers has really angered many people. Many people are trying to get the game boycotted and taken off the market. But in my opinion, this is just a game. There are dozens of others just like it, some with even more "disturbing" themes. Boycotting it would be just plain silly. First off, it would just inspire more people to buy it because it would make them more curious as to the game itself. Not to mention the fact that many people feel that owning a game that may be boycotted is thrilling. Second, if you boycott this game, then you best boycott the dozens of movies that feature this sort of thing as well. Again, it is just a game. There is nothing to get upset about.

As for the game itself, I found it to be less than thrilling. The story is quite straight forward and linear. The same goes with the dull missions and objectives. But if you like to destroy and shoot everyone in your path, then this is the game for you. Just don't expect much of a story. It was a good idea for a game, but it just doesn't have the best game play.

25 to Life is available for XBOX, Playstation 2, and for your PC. Up to 16 people can play together online. A strategy guide is available for those of you who can't seem to get anywhere in the game.

The ESRB rating is M for Mature. This is because the game contains blood and gore, strong language, intense violence, drug reference, and sexual themes. The M rating means that you "little ones" will not be able to purchase it.