REVIEW: 'Resistance 3' for PlayStation 3 is a keeper

You have to commend the makers of the "Resistance" series for their boldness in killing off the protagonist at the end of the first sequel. Few franchises make such a leap, but in so doing this series allowed its third (and supposedly, final) installment to take a different direction while still providing the exhilarating action we've all come to enjoy.

This alternate-history tale of American life in the aftermath of World War II is grim -- extremely grim, I tell you. Nathan Hale is dead, so you take on the role of Joseph Capelli. This character provides the chance to show the last gasps of the human race as it tries to fend off the final assault from the Chimeran race.

Thankfully, "Resistance 3" is not all based in typical American urban centers. Battles rage in small, dusty Midwest towns and swamps in the South, reminding you that America is not all Los Angeles or New York.

One of the legacies of "Resistance" is the fantastic weapon systems. Standards like the magnum and auger are back, as well as some new handy entries that electrocute or freeze those pesky Chimerans. The seamless way the guns and the secondary fire can be upgraded is a feature of the franchise that is copied repeatedly for a reason. It's that good.

The online multiplayer is again top-notch. "Resistance 3" is a must-own.

"Resistance 3"
Platform: PlayStation 3
Genre: Shooter
Publisher: Sony
ESRB Rating: M, for Mature
Grade: 4.5 stars (out of 5)