With E3 and loads of new God of War 3 footage just around the corner, I though it would be nice to get ourselves psyched up. So I've thrown together this 'Closer Look' to showcase the amazing graphical upgrade between last generation's God of War and the God of War we're all waiting for--with special thanks to IGN for some great videos that allowed me to put together this nice side-by-side comparison.

Below, you'll find loads of images showcasing the great evolution we see from this game. Enjoy, and don't forget to comment!

Particle Effects:
See this? God of War 3 uses real particle effects as opposed to static animated sprites. See the fire move realistically on the chains?

Skin System:
Interact with these bad boys like never before. GoW3's amazing skin system combines with excellent textures to make every cut and scrape realistic and lasting. Notice the way the blades actually tear into the skin of the cyclops, as opposed to the simple mesh clipping in GoW2.

Enhanced Textures:
Better textures and lighting mean less to hide. The fantastic new engine allows for closer, more cinematic angles during game play, adding to the ferocity of Kratos' attacks.

Improved Rigging:
With Hollywood-class rigging systems, each character brings better animation and posing. This allows for some of the best kill animations and quick-time events ever seen in a game.

Volumetric Blood:
Blood in God of War has never been so real. This is because GoW3 uses volumetric blood through a particle system, allowing for each drop to reflect light and receive shadows from the surroundings.

This is just a taste of what we've been shown so far. I'm sure there will be plenty more divulged at E3.

Do any of you see anything I missed?