Developer/publisher: Sandlot, D3Publisher

Genre: Third-person sci-fi action

Number of players: One or two via split screen

Rated: T (teen) for animated blood, mild language, violence

The premise: Ever wonder what it would be like to fight giant robots and bugs? Would you like to drive tanks, helicopters and giant robots against horrendous forces that want your planet? How about using experimental weaponry in the defense of the Earth? Pick up your controller: You have just enlisted.

Game play: This game is a third-person action game that can be played solo or with a friend. There's a very easy learning curve in the beginning, and you might even be lulled into thinking the game is too easy. Once in the later levels, however, you will find yourself overwhelmed and killed many times. Be sure to pick the right weapon to suit you for each level. You won't know what's coming up for each level, but be sure of your weapons. It will help you in a pinch.

The good/bad: There is no online multiplayer mode; how odd that an Xbox game doesn't include anything that employs Xbox Live. The game already is able to support many characters and enemies onscreen without slowdown.

It's great to see a game with a plethora of interesting weapons, from multirocket launches to shotguns that wipe out spaceships with three shots. All it takes is picking the right weapon to fit your mood.

Tips: Don't be afraid to redo past levels. You may be rewarded for your efforts.

Don't be afraid to take on large enemies by yourself.

Don't be afraid if you accidentally "cap" one of your allies if they get in your line of fire. The game does not penalize you for this.

My take: I like this game, but certain elements feel unpolished. For instance, the enemy bugs should splatter instead of ceasing to move. To clear some space, you will find yourself wasting shots on enemies already dead. They may be trying to keep up with its sci-fi feel, but the voice-overs are really bad; and all of your compatriots have the same voice (actor) speaking for them.

It would have been helpful to have the ability to coordinate attacks with your computer compatriots or the ability to just coordinate attacks. The two-player mode is fun, with radar telling you where your friend can be located in a jam.

"Earth Defense Force 2017" can seem very repetitious, your only mission to hunt down enemies and destroy them. But just when you're getting tired of a particular enemy, the game throws in another variety.

This is a fun game either solo or co-op, but I just don't think it will be winning any awards. It might tide you over until another big title comes along and is worth playing if you enjoy epic third-person co-op action games.

Jeffrey Davis, of Honolulu, is a video-game enthusiast.