New Army of Two: The 40th Day Screenshots

I actually have to disagree with you here Veggie. There's actually some pretty nice touches of gameplay present in the few pictures here.

- In the first picture, Salem is hiding behind cover while Rio is giving himself up as a decoy to some insurgents. The AI clearly has no idea Salem is just around the corner waiting to get the drop on the guys attempting to capture Rio. How that aspect of the game will ultimately work out remains to be seen, but it seems like a nice new co-op addition.

- The second pic shows us a shootout at the Shanghai Zoo, but more importantly shows how old features from the last game are being improved (hopefully). With Salem holding the shield and Rio firing over the top, it may not be apparent that Salem's gun is actually pointing out through the sight in the shield. One would think that you'd be able to fire your weapon while moving, unlike in the original.

- The third pic probably shows us the least amount of new gameplay ideas, but we can get an idea of new enemy AI. Without the Aggro meter, the enemies seem to be working better together to take both of the player characters down as you can see two insurgents providing cover fire for a third enemy running to another point of cover. Again, purely speculative at this point, but more than possible.

- Last, we have the shot of Salem and Rio with a small Asian child. Here we get a look at how the game will help players relate to two guys who wear masks all the damn time. No, I'm not talking about adoption, I'm talking about how their masks are up, showing their faces. The new game will make use of this storytelling tactic so that Salem and Rio are more than just voices behind a scary mask. It will also reportedly act as a new danger indicator. When the masks are up, the area is clear. As soon as the masks come down, get ready to fight.

As you pointed out, the characters this time around have a much more unique look to them, and players will be able to differentiate between Salem and Rio much more easily. Hopefully, not too much of the game will have to do with that little brat, but who knows.

Anyway, I'm looking forward to this game, and from what I'm seeing, things are looking up for EA's sequel.