Quantum of Solace demo released

In probably the most secret and so most stealthy release of a major game demo ever, Activision's first James Bond game Quantum of Solace has a PC demo out on the Internet . if you know where to look.

No, it's not those pesky Torrents, it's on Coca-Cola's website (click here). You'll need to buy a bottle of Coke Zero (cleverly renamed Coke Zero Zero Seven) and type it in on the linked page, then you can download the demo at will.

Using the Call of Duty 4 engine, the game uses both first and third-person perspectives to create a more cinematic feel, with the COD4 controls making it fairly easy to play. There is also the potential for good Mirror's Edge-rivalling gameplay which is hinted at in the demo, and if that scene from Casino Royale is done properly it could be great.

It is also painfully linear and amazingly uninspired, choosing possibly the dullest level imaginable for this demo. A sewer level - yeah, those always turn out good. With the Gears of War cover system, blindingly obvious flashing Bond Moments from EA's 007 games, and everything else from Call of Duty 4 except with less precise aiming and moving, this demo isn't particularly original.

Still, this is only a soft drink-exclusive free demo, so maybe the full game could be the best Bond game ever. If it isn't at least good, Activision will probably go down the EA route and churn out these games until everyone gets wise to them. Considering they're planning another Bond game in 2009, that may well happen.

I wonder if the evil SPECTRE-like secret organisation hinted at in Casino Royale will turn out to be Activision Blizzard?