Activision has released their newest entry into the hunting arena with Cabela's Dangerous Hunts 2011 for PS3, PC and Xbox 360.

While you can buy just the game, you can also purchase the package with their new Top Shot Elite gun.

Follow up:

The gun does not vary greatly across the platforms, but we have the 360 version. The gun has an adjustable scope and stock as well as an array of buttons located in different locations.

For the 360, an included wireless receiver must be placed near your television. The gun is wireless as well and requires two AA batteries, as does the receiver. Syncing the gun and the receiver to the 360 is a breeze.

Setting the gun calibration is another story. Calibration uses only two spots on the screen. The distance from the receiver to the gun can't be too close or the hot spots won't register. You can use the preset calibration but the gun crosshair won't match the onscreen reticle. Manual calibration isn't impossible but the receiver, the gun and the television all must be "in just the right spot".

Once you're calibrated, start Story Mode and take off. I'm not sure if I've done something wrong, but neither joystick on the gun seems to work for menus. Only the D-pad on the stock registers menu input. You use the rear joystick to walk, meaning walk forward. You actually use the onscreen reticle to turn left and right. Coordinating turning and walking at the same time takes a few moments to get used to.

Your character is the son of an outdoorsman who has lived on the land all his life. Your brother is also along and is closer to your dad than you are, as you are considered a "city boy". You have to prove your mettle to your dad and brother so you can inherit the wilderness you're hunting on. So far I've only made it past the first few practice tasks and am currently tracking a killer grizzly that gobbled some campers.

The game itself looks great and plays well.  The story seems a bit hokey but will surely lead to multiple encounters to overcome. As the story mode is completed, be sure to check back for insights and strategies.

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