Visually the game is gorgeous, using an extremely enhanced version of the Quake III engine. Everything from the character models, faces, and backdrops are incredibly detailed and full of rich colors. The visual effect doesn't end there, as the special FX for major attacks and explosions will keep the oohs and ahhs coming from your lips often throughout your journey. The game also moves at a blistering pace and keeping within 60pfs should be no problem, even with a lower end machine. For higher PC's you get to see the glory of volumetric shadows and lighting that will keep the drool flowing. Sure there are a few better looking shooters out there, and even spiffier ones on the way, but I dare you to show me one that shows off one that details the Star Trek Universe better.

Audio is also very impressive, especially if you have the sound system to "make it so". The bass will kick, the sound is genuine 5.1, and the voice acting is refreshingly great. The voice actors are even the boys from the series of both Voyager and Next Gen. Even the great bald one, does his voice as well. There are many varied sound samples from your weapons that unique differently from one to another. The game's sound is just wonderfully polished and engulfs you into the universe as easily as the visuals.

Game play is basic, addicting, and very tight. I mean, hey this is the Quake 3 engine here folks. Unless you've been living under a rock, you know that Quake 3 not only is one of the most copied engines out there, but most enjoyable as well. A great decision on the developer's part to use this engine as it boasts the best game play to date. Besides the weapon and tools selection, the differences in the game play are similar to the setup of Quake 3, so fans of the series will pick up and play this game. Others will be a pro by the tutorial's end; it's just that easy to get acquainted with the controls.

Elite Force II offers a huge story mode that expands over 70 levels of gun blasting, Borg killing pleasure. There are a few puzzles spread out here and there to keep the game from the depths of a mindless shooter. It's little touches such as these that keep the game fresh throughout. The A.I. of both your companions and your enemies are very intelligent and react correctly more times than not. None of the old, your allies running in your gun path as you try to blast a Borg enemy or complete objectives. The enemies will also keep you on your toes and force you to increase your accuracy as well. Once you are finished saving the world, its time to do some more killing, multiplayer style! You and a slew of your friends can set your phasers on death and play a wealth of multiplayer campaigns to keep you up through the night.

All in all, Star Trek fan or no, there is plenty of fun to be had in this shooter that takes a tired concept and makes it a joy from beginning to end.