Much more actiony than SOCOM 2 and less strategic which may be a good thing or a bad thing depending on the types of games you prefer. SOCOM 2 takes strategy but SOCOM 3 you can run and gun the entire game. Introducing larger maps and vehicles was an interesting way to change up the game as well. I found this game to be much less difficult and frustrating than SOCOM 2 but I became bored by the end of the game because there was no challenge or obstacle to overcome, I was just mindlessly shooting enemies. With SOCOM 2 there was frustration, but there was also strategy and a deep sense of satisfaction in finally beating a level. I would say SOCOM 2 and 3 are equal in terms of quality, but which game you prefer depends on what style of game you prefer. SOCOM 2 is for people who want stealth, strategy, and a sense of satisfaction in beating levels. SOCOM 3 is for people who want more action in their games, and easier levels that they can just chill and relax while playing. Ultimately, as frustrating as SOCOM 2 was, I prefer it over SOCOM 3.