It is finally time for xbox 360 owners to start getting truly excited again, as we prepare for the launch of Gears of War 2. The second installment of Epic's killer FPS is sure to bring gamers all of the excitement that the original brought...and then some.

The first noteworthy detail to mention is the addition of some new characters:

Tai Kaliso - The warrior from a spiritual, and meditative background who promises to bring a fresh and exciting personality to the game

Chairman Prescott - The superior above the asshole Hoffman. He apparently gives an inspirational speech at the beginning of the game

Dizzy - The father of a stranded family who was taken in by the COG forces, in exchange for Dizzy's service to the COGs.

Maria Santiago - Dom's wife...about time Gears got some T&A!

Gears of War 2 starts 6 months after the light mass bomb incident at the end of the last game. A new campaign mode will make it easy for even the most casual players pick up the controller and have a blast. There is also a new feature that will allow two Co-Op players to play on different difficulties. Oh yea, and the new monsters are rumored to make you their bitch...hardcore. I must say that I am most excited about getting to drive a COG tank, which apparently can be compared to the love child of a monster truck and a conventional tank. Not much has been said about the multiplayer. This is because Epic is keeping the details on the hush.

All in all, Gears of War 2 will be one of, if not the greatest game of 2008. I am thoroughly excited about it and I will definitely be getting a pre-order as soon as they become available! Look for Gears of War 2 in stores this November.