Here is a video from Games on Smash explaining how to get to the second floor of one of the buildings in High Rise:

This one shows how to get on top of the roof of the southern building on the same map:

Here is the final video from Games on Smash, this time explaining how to plant the bomb going from the South to the North side of the map:

If you have been struggling to get the “Pit Boss” achievement, The Goozex Report has a video to help you through it. This guy does it pretty masterfully, but it nonetheless shows you specifically what to do in order to get the achievement.

If you do not believe me, Activision proudly compiled the list of records that they beat, with all of entertainment covered:

* The largest reported five-day opening worldwide box office gross figures, held by Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince ($394 million)
* The largest reported five-day opening domestic box office gross figures, held by The Dark Knight ($203.8 million)
* The largest reported five-day worldwide video game sales record, previously held by Grand Theft Auto IV (6 million units, $500 million)
* The largest reported opening first-day domestic box office gross figures, held by The Dark Knight ($66.4 million)
* The largest reported first-day book sales in dollars, held by Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows ($220 million)
* The largest reported first-day worldwide video game sales record, previously held by Grand Theft Auto IV (3.6 million units, $310 million)

Consumers’ pocketbooks were not the only thing that saw the power of Modern Warfare 2; Xbox Live, to say the least, had more activity than usual. Infinity Ward has alot to brag about:

* More than 5.2 million multiplayer hours were logged playing Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 on the first day alone.
* More than 2.2 million unique gamers played Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 in one day on November 10th. A new one-day record for Xbox LIVE.
* More than 11 million achievements were unlocked on Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 on the first day.

Robert Kotick, the CEO of Activision Blizzard, is undoubtedly pleased with MW2’s success and said “In just five days of sell through Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 has become the largest entertainment launch in history and a pop culture phenomenon. The title’s success redefines entertainment as millions of consumers have chosen to play Modern Warfare 2 at unprecedented levels rather engage in other forms of media.”

So what you are saying is that they just want to play video games? And alot of them?

You will find that certain spots on maps are very popular sniping spots. The hill on “Afghan” is a great example. Windows and doorways in elevated positions, for example, are usually sniper nests.  If you’re sniping, one thing you can do to help your team or clan is to find very unpopular spots and countersnipe.

Snipers will usually focus on popular corners and hallways–places where enemies will “bottleneck.”

If you’re countersniping, you want to win the battles around these bottlenecks. You might find that the opponent’s sniping spot is so good, however, that you have a great deal of difficulty finding out where it is. One thing you should not do is “feed the loop” by repeatedly approaching the spot again and again in the game. This will only make you frustrated.

Move on to something else in the particular game and then  fire up a custom match and run around a map by yourself.

First, I’d recommend using different scopes as you scan areas, because surroundings can look radically different when you’re using a thermal scope, for example.

Second, ask yourself what you can see from that popular sniping spot.

Then, while you are on a custom match, put out a claymore in the popular sniping spot if you have one, and then check out the different angles from which you can see it. See whether you can blow up the claymore.

Or recruit a buddy to be a dummy target. (You could do this on your own with split-screen, but your view on your TV screen is going to be very different.)

I’m guessing that on each map, you’ll find about 5 to 10 really popular spots. You can usually research these spots on one map in about 20 minutes. Doing this research will help you not to be frustrated later on as you play games online. You will know better the ins and outs of these spots.

Now, if you’re already doing this–great. If you find that this article doesn’t bring you any new good information–great. Pat yourself on the back and check out our other stuff.

But not everybody might have thought about my suggestions, and it’s written for them.

Actually that is not entirely true.  The guy throwing the knife pulled a Brett Favre “chuck and pray” maneuver that is no different than the random grenade chucking at the beginning of any match.  This knife toss was extremely impressive in how everything worked out but did nothing to make me fear this ninja and his pedestrian 6 kills 4 deaths (pre knife throw).

Either way the video is pretty cool and makes me want to try out the knives and hop in on the sticky grenade battle too. Remember though, camping has been banned!

Considering its first-day sales numbers, it is pretty unsurprising that the game has broken first week sales records in the island across the pond, the United Kingdom. The title sold 1.78 million copies in the first five days of sale in the UK and has grossed over £67.4 million. Move over GTA IV (the previous recordholder).

An interesting side note: Michael Rawlinson, Director General of the Entertainment and Leisure Software Publishers Association (the ELSPA, Europe’s version of the ESA) added that “Whilst the launch of Modern Warfare 2 has indeed been extraordinary, it is indicative of the growing popularity of video games. One in three people in the UK now play video games regularly.”

One in THREE people. Holy cultural relevance Batman, video games are bloody popular.

They chose to poke fun at the easier target of the Call of Duty series, which is its penchant for WW2 settings. See Flidby, Hench77, Ratbanjos, and S3R4F1N0W1C2 storm the beaches of Normandy while RYCART1 and triggerhappydom are…trigger happy while firing on them.

More Fun with MW2

• We came up with some suggestions for 5 new perks we wanted to see in Modern Warfare 2.
• How about comparing the sticky grenades in Halo 3 to the ones now in Modern Warfare 2?
• A graphical representation of the top features wanted by Juggernauts and why they use the perk with an added bonus showing their favorite things.
• Will girlfriends and wives pick up on quoting this COD game too?
• Dick Cheney thinks President Barack Obama is scared of Modern Warfare 2.
• Ninja Knife Toss in COD MW2 Multiplayer
• Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 Launch Guide Portal

With a series conclusion EA has announced that if you pre-order the game before release you will gain access to an upcoming beta, the game’s official soundtrack and an exclusive prequel bonus mission.

It is hard to believe that Command & Conquer has been around for 15 years. And as one of the fathers of modern strategy games its hard to believe that the stories of Kane and the GDI are officially coming to an end. Here’s to hoping EA sends it off with style and purpose on March 16, 2o1o.

IGN- 9.5 (out of 10)

“the game that many will be playing well into next year.”

Kotaku- Although Kotaku doesn’t use a set rating system they did have an in depth pros and cons system with the pros obviously outweighing the cons.

“Like Infinity Ward’s previous Call of Duty, Modern Warfare 2 is an explosive roller coaster ride of an action game.”

1UP- 94.81% (A)

“Mixing real-world locations with bombastic set-pieces MW2 continues the guided, thrill-ride experiences of its predecessor, and adds even more depth to its multiplayer offerings.”

VideoGamer- 10 (out of 10)

“Today it’s obvious that gamers will be playing Modern Warfare 2’s multiplayer for a very long time. In fact, it’s hard to see the majority of people wanting to play any other multiplayer shooter until the next CoD is released, such is the quality of what’s on offer here.”

GamerVision-9.5 (out of 10)

“It’s hard to find much to complain about in Modern Warfare 2. Infinity Ward has done so much right that most faults are negligible by comparison.”

Eurogamer-9 (out of 10)

“Modern Warfare 2 balances the spectacle and silliness of its single-player campaign with a deep, enduring multiplayer core, carefully covering its bases for players of all persuasions. But there is no denying it seeks merely to build upon the successes of its forebear while doing very little to expand its scope or redefine them.”

Telegraph UK-10 (out of 10)

“the finest game in its genre, as well one of the truly great games of this or indeed any year.  Time to lock and load, people…”  (I like that last line.)

GiantBomb- 5 (out of 5 stars)

“If you’ve ever been interested in a first-person shooter, buy this game.”

Gamespy- 5 (out of 5 stars)

“The fact that I didn’t even get into the stunning visuals and amazing sound design speaks volumes about the sheer amount of content in the game, and I could probably write another 800 words simply about the ridiculous attention to detail on display in each level.”

ME Gamers- 9.9 (out of 10)

“Despite certain controversial elements, this game is an FPS fan’s dream. Game of the Year? Hell, yeah!”

GameInformer- 9.5 (out of 10)

“Modern Warfare 2 is a masterpiece of careful iteration, with an unmatched presentation and a well of content that will take months to run dry.”

Cheat Code Central- 4.9 (out of 5)

“Honestly, unless you’re completely against playing games in which you shoot things, this game’s excellent single-player campaign, enjoyable Special Ops mode, and addictive and nearly endless online multiplayer experience should put MW2 at the very top of your “to buy” list.”

GameTrailers-9.5 (out of 10)

“Get ready for one wild ride, as Modern Warfare 2’s campaign typifies the phrase “short but sweet.” The air of unpredictability and the care that was paid to each separate element puts it in lofty company.”

Play Magazine- 9.5 (out of 10)

“About that last thing I want to play is a game based on the military these days, but Infinity Wards high-level sense of design and moments of awe and wonder make it all better. Awesome game.”

Total Video Games- 9 (out of 10)

“This really is as good as it gets in terms of FPS games on the current crop of consoles. Modern Warfare 2 ticks all of the right boxes: varied gameplay, immersive story, engaging gunplay, superb multiplayer, and the list goes on…”

Edge Magazine- 9 (out of 10, according to metacritic.com)

“A dazzling package. A singleplayer campaign crammed with set-pieces that pull the player through at breakneck speed sits alongside Spec Ops, 23 co-op missions and a MW greatest hits package, before that superlative multiplayer, which really needs no introduction.”

Game Daily- 9 (out of 10 according to metacritic.com) 

“Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 has more than enough guns, modes and “oh-my-god” moments to propel it to the very top of your must have list, with astounding visuals, crystal-clear (and at times, frightening) audio and enough plot twists to make you second guess everything, so gear up, hop onto your snowmobile and haul ass to the nearest store.”

Team XBox-9.7 (out of 10)

“Infinity Ward has pushed the Xbox 360 hardware pretty hard and squeezed out what it can from the console. The end result is slick—and should be a model for what developers can accomplish.”

Gamer Limit- 9 (out of 10)

“If you’ve ever wanted to be part of an action movie (and let’s be honest, who hasn’t?) MW2 is the game for you. Fans of shooters will be hailing MW2 as one of the best FPS games of all time, or at least until Modern Warfare 3 arrives.”

MS Xbox World-9.5 (out of 10)

“Modern Warfare 2 is a must have game and one that should stay in your collection…period. The only way this game is going to be toppled in by Modern Warfare 3 whenever that comes out.”

GameSpot- 9.0 (out of 10)

“The cooperative missions provide a uniquely fun angle on the action that rounds out the package superbly, making Modern Warfare 2 thoroughly entertaining, thoroughly rewarding, and thoroughly worth the wait.”

GamesRadar- 10 (out of 10)

“Let’s keep it good and simple: Modern Warfare 2 is this year’s must-buy first-person shooter.”

It turns out that the speculations came true, as Modern Warfare 2 set opening day records with over 4.7 million copies moved in the North America and the UK on the first day. The estimated revenue from the game on opening day is roughly $310 million, making it the biggest entertainment launch in history.

That’s a pretty impressive number. Considering that entertainment also includes film and music, Activision and Infinity Ward have a lot to be happy about right now.

To be honest, none of our previous launch guide games like Gears of War 2 or Halo 3: ODST had nearly as much hype surrounding them.  After all, this is already the most pre-ordered game in GameStop history and looks to be the biggest entertainment release of all time (predicted to sell 11 million copies in first two months).  Spike, FX, and Comedy Central have been jamming it down our throats with commercials.  Then again so has the NBA and NFL.  We have been tracking this game even before Robert Bowling and Infinity Ward publicly acknowledged it and eventually announced the release date at GDC 09 – even when it wasn’t going to be part of the Call of Duty franchise.  Finally now it is almost time to drop an airstrike on some noobs!

So without further ado, here is all the intel you need to know before you hop in line on Monday night.  If you have anything to add or know of any specials we don’t know about, please leave them in the comments or send them to as on Twitter @PWN_or_DIE.

Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2 Editions

Which version should I buy?

First of all, you likely know by now that Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2 comes in three editions – Standard, Hardened, and most famously, Prestige. It will be made available for both Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 on November 10, 2009.  The PC version is in-stores and as well but in some cases the digital download will follow on the 12th.  Here we will outline what each of the console versions offer.

Standard Game: The no-frills, normal copy of the game. No extra goodies, just the manual and a copy of the game to play. Will run you $59.99.

Hardened Edition: The Hardened Edition of the game comes in a steel game case, a Modern Warfare 2 art book, Call of Duty Classic (the very first Call of Duty, which was not released on consoles) on Xbox Live Arcade or Playstation Network, and a copy of the game. The Hardened Edition is priced at $79.99 USD.

Prestige Edition: The Prestige Edition comes with the all of the same gear as the Hardened Edition PLUS some awesome night vision goggles.  They actually really work too! The goggles also feature a molded plastic Soap MacTavish head to mount them when you aren’t out cosplaying Splinter Cell. Don’t think you are going to get it cheap though- the Prestige Edition costs $149.99 USD.  In fact the Prestige Edition will likely be extremely hard to find if you haven’t secured one with a pre-order.

Pre-Order Bonuses

Before you make the big purchase, know that various locations have been running their own pre-order bonuses for the game. Any vendor selling the game will want your business and are offering some pretty sweet deals for this reason. In addition, many retail locations have in-store deals if you choose to pick up the game in person.

GameStop – Pre-order customers at GameStop will receive a voucher code for the “Surprize Attack” Sweepstakes. The prizes being given away in this sweepstakes include an H2 Hummer, a Ducati Motorcycle, a snowmobile, and a ton of other Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2-branded gear. Those that reserve the game can go here and enter their code twice a day until the end of the offer (hurry, it does not last much longer). Additionally, if you reserve the game online at GameStop’s website, you will be guaranteed a $40 value in you trade it in by December 13th of this year.  Some of you may have cashed in on the replica signed poster from Infinity Ward, but that promotion is long over.

Best Buy – $10 gift card in-store pre-order, or a price of $49.99 online (unfortunately, this promotion has since expired).  If you pre-order the PC version online you can save $60 on select video cards.

Amazon.com – Pre-order the Standard or Hardened Edition and get a $20 game credit for a later purchase. Pre-ordering the Prestige Edition will give you a $10 game credit online. Those that belong to Amazon Prime will get the game on delivery day.

Wal-Mart.com – Buying Modern Warfare 2 at Wal-Mart’s website now will get you a $20 eGift Card to use at the site.

In-Store Deals

Wal-Mart – The first 20 customers in line at any 24-hour Wal-Mart store to pick up Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2 will get an autographed copy of the game, signed by the development team.  The game will be on sale at midnight in these 2600 stores.  It looks like there are also posters that feature the cover of the game on-hand to hand out as well.

GameStop – Any GameStop stores staying open past midnight for the game will also be holding a release party, where every gamer in the store will get a Hitman energy drink.  Also for those that subscribe to their email list, there is a coupon that offers 20% the purchase of one used game when bought with MW2.

Toys-R-US – If you belong to the Rewards R Us club, picking up Modern Warfare 2 between 10-2 on release day will net you $20 on a gift card.

Best Buy – Members of the Gamer’s Club will receive a $10 gift card along with their purchase.  Additionally some Best Buy stores will be opening at midnight to release the game, here are the locations listed in the promotion.

GameFly – Not really a store, but they offer the rental price of $8.95 and their “keep” price is $49.99 for both PS3 and Xbox 360.

Fry’s – The game will be $49.89 in stores according to the leaked ad.

K-Mart - The big K is offering a $10 gift card according to their ad today.

We will also keep an eye on the forums at cheapassgamer.com for any other deals that users find over the rest of the weekend.

Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2 Gear

Even though the game is not out, plenty of other products have jumped on the Modern Warfare 2 bandwagon. If you want to express your love for the game, here is some MW2-branded gear.

Xbox 360 Modern Warfare Limited Edition Console – On the day of Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2’s release, Microsoft will be selling an Xbox 360 covered in a MW2 design. It will come with all of the features of an Xbox 360 Elite, a 250 GB hard drive, two wireless controllers, and of course a copy of Modern Warfare 2.

MadCatz has a series of licensed MW2 gear including the backlit Modern Warfare 2 “Combat Controller”, keyboards, wireless headsets, throat communicator, console skins, and more.  Included are accessories for Xbox 360, PS3, and PC.

If you need to renew your Xbox Live account, Best Buy has a 12 month subscription card for $49.99 that includes a Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 t-shirt.  Also the “collector’s edition” strategy guide that is priced at $34.99 will be $19.99. Both of these deals will be in the Best Buy circular in tomorrow’s newspapers.  You can save 15% on the guide online when you buy it with the game.

“Assault” Monster Energy Drink – Just because Modern Warfare 2 is a game does not mean you will not see it outside of gaming. Monster Energy Drinks recently introduced a Modern Warfare 2 branded drink named “Assault” in September. To sweeten the deal, those that buy a 4-pack of the drink will have a chance to win the Hardened Edition, future map packs, premium themes for both PS3 and Xbox 360, and Monster beverages. If you snag a 6-pack of the drink (only found at Sam’s Club), you will have access to an exclusive online event this month to be held at Infinity Ward “The Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 Training Experience.”

Xbox Live Avatar Items – Just this weekend, Activision and Infinity Ward put a collection of Modern Warfare 2 goods on Xbox Live. Deck out your avatar ahead of the release for some of your hard earned MS Points.

Even though you have likely seen a few of the Modern Warfare 2 commercials (like the official launch trailer or the Infamy trailer), stay posted because we might soon have some you have not seen before.

More Fun with MW2

• We came up with some suggestions for 5 new perks we wanted to see in Modern Warfare 2.
• How about comparing the sticky grenades in Halo 3 to the ones now in Modern Warfare 2?
• A graphical representation of the top features wanted by Juggernauts and why they use the perk with an added bonus showing their favorite things.
• Will girlfriends and wives pick up on quoting this COD game too?
• Dick Cheney thinks President Barack Obama is scared of Modern Warfare 2.