Gamers, prepare to join the 'Secret Service'

(Credit: Activision)

It's been interesting to hear Sarah Palin, the Republican VP nominee, accusing Barack Obama of "palling around with terrorists"--a huge distraction, in my opinion, from the economic crisis and other pressing issues. If that's not the kind of distraction you enjoy, I have another that might prove more fun.

Activision announced Friday that its new first-person shooter Secret Service will be released later this year for three platforms: Xbox 360, PlayStation 2, and the PC. The title will let players assume the role of an elite agent tasked with protecting America's top leadership under high pressure.

The story takes place on Inauguration Day in Washington D.C. An extremist assault has been launched against the capitol and it's unclear who's friend or foe. There's no time for negotiation as players get thrust into the line of fire to protect the nation's leaders. The action takes place among famous landmarks and everywhere in between, including both Marine One and Air Force One.

Secret Service will cost $39.99 for the Xbox 360, $29.99 for PlayStation 2, and $19.99 for PC. Now with all the confusion and distraction going in the political arena, I think it's necessary to say that this game is not approved, endorsed, or authorized by the real U.S. Secret Service.

[pillowsrsoft]

"all three platforms: Xbox 360, PlayStation 2, and the PC" i hope you mean the PlayStation 3

[Pilopino67]

I was hoping the same thing, but the rather low price above didn't bring my hopes up. I did a quick peek at IGN's site and it's actually Activision Value (whatever that is...) that is releasing the game...and yes, it's PS2.

[7aji88]

oh wow, All three platforms!! I guess I'll dust off my PS2 to play this game on it. I can't hardly wait until ps3 is out!!
I know it's a dump question, but did they use the new You Tube comment reader when they wrote this post?? PS2

[Leslie Katz]

Yes, yes, point well taken. The word "all" has been excised! Thanks...

[MadLyb]

$40 for the 360 and only $20 for the PC version. I am intrigued by this unique pricing structure.

[jcorso]

Why must we put up with gratuitous and clichéd political comments from CNET reviewers? They add nothing but irritation. Part of the reason I play games is to get away from the constant blather about Palin, Obama, the stock market, global whatever... give us a break!

[forMcCainPalin]

Vote for the McCain-Palin ticket and save America! Much more important than some old video game!

[AmbientShadow]

the fact you made a user just to say that is appalling alone - but the fact of the matter is, nothing in your comment has anything remotely to do with your post.

[AmbientShadow]

politic aside, it makes "some" sense that they would release for 360, PS2 and PC at those low prices. lots of people still don't have ps3. maybe the game was in development before ps3 was really possible to develop for? if that's the case, then I hope it's good for the amount of time they spent on it - the price is certainly right.

[rnotr2]

So, someone who bombed the pentagon and to this day claims that it "wasn't enough" and is called a terrorist bothers you? 0bama chose to have his political career launched in this guys home. That is what should bother you. Would you be as bothered if McCain's political career was launched in the living room of someone who bombed abortion clinics and Biden called him to task on it?

[smileynh]

Palin and Obama in a game review? Do you want to talk about Abu Gharib and Enron also?

You need some friends to talk to. Try dorkswhohavenofriends.com dailykos.com?

Maybe the NYT's has an opening.

[SienkRJ]

Nah, I don't think Dong has a political bone in his body. He's just a techno-dork blabbing stuff that he thinks makes for a cool opening line. It's probably something they taught him in a Journalism course at school.