Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 hit the stores today, (if you were unaware of that fact then shame on you) and for once, the regular handfull of major gaming portals

had to wait until the day of the game’s release before they could post their official scores for the game.

So, unlike with other games where we’ve had a heads-up, with Modern Warfare 2, most of us have had to trust that the game would be great as it was on the shelves before the major sites published their reviews.

Anyway, I pre-ordered mine and the mail man has yet to drop it through the mailbox, but then it is still early.

So, while I’m waiting I figured I’d post some of the review scores from the major portals just to kill some time…

This is what Joystiq.com said…

Though we can’t comment on the plastic night vision goggles or the other bonuses you’ll get in the Hardened and Prestige editions, the actual disc containing the game is well worth every cent you’ll shell out for it. The single-player campaign might not engross you enough to want to play through the entire game again, but multiplayer and Spec Ops will both bring you back many, many times.

Next up is Computerandvideogames.com who gave it a whopping 9.4…

While on the surface whiffing a little like an extension of the excellent first game, the sequel manages to keep the action genuinely and constantly fresh with incredible set pieces, unique gameplay and many an epic twist in the story.  And after all that, you’ve got that legendary multiplayer to tuck into and the co-op glory of Spec Ops mode. Infinity Ward has served up its greatest shooter yet. We’re just sorry we couldn’t tell you that before you queued for it at midnight.

IGN.com gave Modern Warfare 2 a meaty 9.5 and had this to say…

When you look at the total package, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 is hands-down one of the best first-person shooters out there, and a truly amazing offering across any system. With that being said, our score comes with a disclaimer. For those planning to check out everything Modern Warefare 2 has to offer – online competition, full co-op Spec Ops mode, as well as the campaign – you’re looking at a no-brainer purchase. For the strictly single player crowd, however, Modern Warfare 2 is surprisingly short, and doesn’t live up to the standard set by previous Call of Duty games. The campaign can be completed in as little as four and a half hours, and the missions make better scenarios and moment-to-moment adrenaline rushes than they do a cohesive, well-told story. If you’re going solo, you’ve officially been warned. Look at the complete Modern Warfare 2 experience though, and there’s no denying its rightful place at the top.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qKuPQ6C3z1A