It is better. Sure the graphics aren't on the same level, but is that really an issue? I've heard a few so called "reviewers" call it "a good looking PS2 game"... These types of uncalled and extremely illinformed comments irk me. CLEARLY some people don't remember what a PS2 shooter game looks like. Let's observe shall we? In fact, lets compare visuals from both BF2 Modern Combat and Bad Company 2:
This is BF2 Modern Combat, imo, its no ugly duckling in the column of PS2 FPS visuals
Now this, is Bad Company 2
Thats a pretty significant difference if you ask me. Anyways, OT, the game is nothing short of spectacular online. Rush mode can be pretty intense, Conquest has always been my fav, the new addidtions of Squad Rush and Squad Deathmatch (4v4v4v4) are a for sure way to breathe new fire into competitive clan gaming.
If there IS one thing I must gripe about BC2, its the size of the conquest maps, and the limit of 16v16. I'm so used to playing BF2 games where it was 32v32 and the map was an ever changing all out war everywhere you went.
Pick it up, hug it, love it, just don't try anything too intimate with it or you'll hurt yourself. The game is that good.