When a franchise makes a leap in progress such as "Killzone 2" did from the original game, perhaps it would be greedy to expect similar improvement in the next release. But lightning can strike twice, it seems. "Killzone 3" is a fantastic game that will make gamers happy and multiplayer fans rejoice.

Most of the story focuses on Sev and Rico, two soldiers seemingly bent on destroying the Helghast army by themselves. Throughout the campaign, players are plied with all manner of weaponry, including classics from previous games and a few new toys to make the proceedings more explosive.

"Killzone 3" sets a frenetic pace, helped out by the well-executed blend of set pieces. Some missions take place in tight spaces with hordes of Helghast foes swarming about, while others are set in tanks armed with heavy cannons. Although many games try to throw the kitchen sink at players and fail, "Killzone" developers have succeeded without pandering.

Just finishing the campaign is not enough. For the true grit of this game, gamers must dive into the online multiplayer mode for the riches that await --- better maps, stronger layouts and a sweet new match type called Operations.

For a game with wonderful cinematic views and battle set pieces that would make action-movie director Michael Bay weep with joy, "Killzone 3's" cut scenes and dialogue are truly horrendous. The dialogue is filled with long, canned speeches that go nowhere. It's truly terrible stuff -- and not in a wink-wink, campy way as it is in the "Command & Conquer" series.

If you can somehow block out the awful cut scenes, you'll be left with a beautifully designed first-person shooter well worth your time.