Yakuza 3 - PS3

It has taken more than a year, but Sega have finally brought the third instalment of their Japanese crime-based series to the West.

Fans were overjoyed when Sega confirmed the news, but less so when they discovered segments of the game had been removed to make it more palatable for Western audiences. And while it's disappointing cuts have been made, Yakuza 3 still towers above the vast majority of software currently on the market.

Stepping once again into the shoes of Kazuma Kiryu - the former Yakuza boss with a heart of gold - the game starts at an unusually sedate pace.

Kazuma has left Tokyo to open an orphanage in the coastal town of Okinawa. However it's not long until he swaps his Hawaiian shirt for a steely grey suit and flies back to Tokyo, where he is drawn into yet another gangland turf war with more than a hint of political intrigue.

The opening few hours gently guide the player around the coastal town, with Kazuma running errands, taking part in side quests, looking after the orphanage and beating up the local bad guys with the usual assortment of golf clubs, baseball bats, and shop signs.

The core gameplay hasn't really changed since the 2005 original, with the same flaws still apparent - it's still far to easy to take fresh air swings in battle due to the game's clumsy camera set up, the dialogue scenes are stilted and firmly set in the PS2 era, while managing your inventory is still a bit of a chore.

Still, the series has always been more than the sum of its parts, and what Yakuza 3 lacks in overall finesse, it more than makes up for in its cracking soap opera story line, range of diverse activities and quirky Japanese flavour.

The combat lies at the heart of the experience, and when it clicks it's an absolute joy. It's incredibly satisfying, and helped enormously by the range of moves unlocked as you progress.

Special moves can be beefed up using experienced gained from normal bouts of fisticuffs, while more exotic combat moves can be unlocked by witnessing certain situations while wandering around town. Each deliciously over-the-top revelation always raises a smile, and my favourite - so far - is seeing a drunk Japanese businessman attempt to pole dance on a lamp-post.

While you could easily breeze through the game in around 25 hours, it's possible to spend at least three times that by taking part in the game's side quests and activities.

When not progressing the story, Kazuma is free to wander about the fictional sun-kissed resort of Okinawa, or explore the sizzling neon streets and alleyways of Tokyo's Kabukicho district.

Talking to people either results in learning vital snippets of information or starts a sub-quest. There are 80+ optional quests to take on, and each is wonderfully presented. From trying to resolve an argument about instant ramen noodles to taking part in a Samurai flick - in a lovely nod to Ryū ga Gotoku Kenzan! - there is plenty of content to get stuck in to.

And that's not all. Kazuma can also play darts, golf, baseball, poker, blackjack, roulette, pool, go bowling, sing in karaoke bars, eat in a variety of restaurants, get drunk in bars, go on dates, play games in the Club Sega arcade, modify weapons and find hidden locker keys.

There's also a fantastic fishing game on the beach in Okinawa, which is beautifully done. With a large selection of sea creatures to catch, this activity could easily keep you occupied for hours.

These activities are completely optional, but are central to the Yakuza experience. It's a pleasure immersing yourself in Kazuma Kiryu's weird and wonderful world and you'll come away from it with a huge grin plastered across your face.

Visually, the game looks dated in places. That's not to say it looks bad, but some textures are muddy while the game looks slightly soft around the edges.

However, it has to be said that Yakuza 3's environments are wonderful. Aside from Grand Theft Auto IV, no other video game city has felt more visually arresting. And, thanks to the game's excellent use of audio, Yakuza 3 drips with atmosphere.

For those who missed out on the first two games, video recaps are available from the main menu and are essential viewing to catch up on the story's central characters.

It's no secret the first two games on PS2 sold poorly in the West, but you really would be missing out on one of this year's most spellbinding games if you let Yakuza 3 slip through your fingers.

Old school Shenmue fans will notice more than a few similarities and it really is one of the finest games released this year.

Monhun Nikki: Poka Poka Airu Mura - PSP

In just over a month, Europe will finally get the chance to play Monster Hunter Tri on Wii. As a self-confessed Monster Hunter addict, April can't come soon enough.

However, in Japan, a Monster Hunter spin-off is in the pipeline. Featuring the cats - or Felynes - from the popular PSP games, Monhun Nikki Poka Poka Airu Mura looks more like a cross between Animal Crossing, Patapon and Harvest Moon than the monster slaying antics we're used to.

Roughly translated as Monster Hunter: Poka Poka Felyne Village, details are still sketchy. However, it looks adorable and I'll definitely be taking a look when the game launches in Japan later this year.

Heavy Rain - PS3

Can videogames mirror films when it comes to delivering rich, compelling narrative? It’s a question that’s been doing the rounds for years, with some titles make a decent fist of bringing a cinematic experience to a home console.

However they are few and far between, with gamers and developers seemingly more interested in first-person shooters than delivering interesting games with a well written plot.

Quantic Dream’s last game was 2005’s Fahrenheit, a title which tried to blend the worlds of film and videogames together. It was an acquired taste and had its fair share of flaws, but when it worked, it delivered a gaming experience like no other.

So to Quantic Dream’s latest title, Heavy Rain. The title focuses on four main characters, each one central to the game’s gripping plot. Each well developed figure is linked to a serial killer known as the Origami Killer, and unravelling the mystery behind this cold-blooded murderer becomes utterly compelling.

It’s a dark, twisting story, peppered with adult themes, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t time for some light-hearted moments along the way.

The core gameplay involves a new way of thinking about the PS3’s controller. The left stick is used to position whichever character is under your control, while deftly moving the right stick and following on-screen prompts allows the character to interact with highlighted objects. From opening fridges and drinking cartons of fruit juice, to rocking a baby to sleep, striking matches and taking a shot of Scotch, it’s intuitive and keeps the player connected to the on-screen action.

Ancient quick-time button prompts raise their ugly head again, but unlike fast-paced action titles such as the recent Dante’s Inferno, they are better handled here. There are still frantic moments, of course, especially when involved in a bout of fisticuffs or driving a car headlong into oncoming traffic. But the unfolding drama keeps the player glued to the pad just in case something nasty awaits.

The one fly in the ointment is the direct control of your character. Pressing the R2 trigger moves your on-screen charge, but coupled with the left stick, the set up is incredibly clunky and leads to moments when you find yourself moving in completely the wrong direction. This is especially noticeable when in confined areas, or when trying to move around tables and other static objects.

Strangely, though, this cumbersome control method didn’t really hamper my overall enjoyment, as I was so engrossed in the story, characters and the game’s incredible visuals.

Heavy Rain is presented with incredible flair, a studious eye for detail and features some of the best graphics yet seen on PS3. Clean cut office floors give way to rain-washed streets, grimy abandoned warehouses, fizzing neon nightclubs, sprawling mansions, and seedy motel rooms.

The slightly stiff characters don’t fit quite as well as the environments they inhabit, but despite this, you do feel a bond between you and the on-screen cast.

The sense of depression and loneliness in one scene is quite incredible, and the pain etched across faces is hard to ignore. It’s a spellbinding experience and one of only a handful of games I’ve played which has resonated emotionally with me as I played through. I wanted the characters to achieve their goals and felt a sharp sense of disappointment when things didn’t go quite according to plan.

While the game is linear in its structure, it really has to be to tell the story properly. However, there’s a smattering of Dreamcast classic Shenmue in places, too, allowing the player to explore some locations at their leisure and play about with various on-screen objects.

Quantic Dream have created a wonderful and ambitious piece of digital entertainment and they should be heartily congratulated.

It’s flawed in places due to its archaic control method, but Heavy Rain is without doubt one of he most thrilling and emotive pieces of software I’ve ever played. As soon as I completed the game, I started again - something I've not done for quite a while.

It’s not for everyone, that’s for sure. But those looking for something deeper than standard console fare should definitely take a look.

Tatsunoko vs Capcom - Wii

While all gamers know the Capcom name thanks to titles such as Street Fighter and Resident Evil, a lot of people will never have heard of Tatsunoko. That's because Tatsunoko is a Japanese animation company, whose closest links to the Western world lie in Seventies series Battle of the Planets.

Fortunately, despite a range of unfamiliar characters, you don't need to know anything about Tatsunoko to be able to enjoy this fabulous tag team fighter.

Just three attack buttons are used: light, medium and heavy, and together with directional inputs introduce a host of moves to experiment with. A fourth button is used to call a second character into the fray. This substitute can either be called in for a quick attack, or can be swapped on the fly. It's a simple and elegant control system, allowing players to input quick-fire combos with ease.

Each time your character unleashes an attack or receives a punch in the guts, the Hyper Combo Gauge fills. This bar can be topped up to a maximum of five times and can be triggered to deliver a potent series of special moves. If the bar is filled to capacity, each fighter can pull off a visually spectacular and devastating attack.

Just because unleashing flashy combos is easier here than, say, Street Fighter IV, it doesn't mean the game is shallow button-mashing nonsense.

While novice players will be happy to hit any old button and hope for the best, there's more than enough to keep fighting game veterans happy. Cross-over assists, hyper combos, cross-over air raids, and Baroque combos are just some of the special moves to be learned.

The riotous action is made all the more special thanks to the brilliant and colourful cast. There are more than 20 characters to select from the start, while more can be unlocked as you progress.

Well known Street Fighters Ryu and Chun-Li lead the way for Team Capcom, but there are some wonderful characters from the company's games represented here - Mega Man, Darksiders' Morrigan, Viewtiful Joe and housecleaning Mega Man robot Roll take center stage - look out for her amazing special moves. Even square-jawed journalist Frank West takes a break from mass zombie killing in Dead Rising to put in an appearance.

On the Tatsunoko side, the most recognisable pair are Ken the Eagle and Jun the Swan from classic Seventies series Battle Of The Planets. Joining them is an assortment of truly off-the-wall characters. Chief among them is Doronjo, who along with her Dorombo gang, unleashes havoc with bombs and mechanical gadgets.

The bold slabs of colour used and fantastic animation add to the visual polish, while the game's slick framerate remains constant throughout. It really is a gorgeous game and one of the best looking titles on the Wii.

Along with the default Arcade Mode, there are a variety of play modes to explore and even a shop where artwork and extras can be purchased with in-game currency.

Tatsunoko vs Capcom can even be taken online, although the experience for me was slightly laggy, but certainly nothing game breaking.

The stilted slide show rewards for completing the game with each of the characters are a bit of a let down. I was hoping for slices of animation and some worthwhile rewards. It jars slightly as the rest of the game is such a visual treat.

Various control methods have also been added, including support for a Gamecube pad. I played with the Classic Controller, which proved to be more effective than the standard Wiimote/nunchuk set-up.

Tatsunoko vs Capcom manages to cater for hardcore fighting fans and beat em up novices, with enough content to keep players going for months. It's accessible and a joy to play. Snap it up and experience something a bit special.

Shiren The Wanderer 3 Portable - PSP

With America due to get Shiren The Wanderer 3 on Wii in the next week or so, I've been insanely jealous. After all, no European publisher has picked Shiren's latest adventure up, which is a bloody disgrace if you ask me.

So, I've plumped for the next best thing - Shiren The Wanderer 3 Portable on PSP. I ordered it last week from Japan and it arrived this morning. I've put around five hours in today and it's wonderful stuff.

Shiren's first outing on PSP is a port of the Wii version, although I understand there's a handful of extra dungeons - too early to say for sure, as I'm still fighting my way through the game's early levels.

The biggest difference with Shiren 3 over the last two outings is Chun Soft have made the game more accessible to newcomers. The player has the option of two difficulty settings. Easy allows you to keep all your items and level when you die, while normal strips you of your items when you kick the bucket, but your level remains.

It's a radical departure for a series which is famous for being a ruthless challenge. Of course, I've plumped for the normal setting, as one of Shiren's charms has always been the fear factor.

Like Shiren 2 on DS, Shiren 3 features a hub town. Although I've had a nose about, I haven't come across much to do in the town yet. There's a warehouse, a bank and a merchant but little else. Of course, I'm sure more will open up as progress is made.

My first game ended when I starved to death - there doesn't seem to be a place in town where I can buy riceballs, so that was fun! Nice to see some things never change :)

I've also discovered there is a 1000 floor dungeon - although again I will need to clarify.

The language barrier is throwing up a few problems as far as the story goes, although thanks to the Shiren 3 Wiki, I can at least identify items.

I'm still keeping my fingers crossed that a company such as Rising Star pick the Wii version up and release it in Europe. Considering the amount of sub-standard software sitting on store shelves, it would be a crime if a quality title such as this didn't make it to Europe.

I'll post back when I discover new things.

Endless Ocean 2 - Wii

The sequel to one of the Wii’s hidden gems has arrived - and it’s a breath of fresh air on a system which is depressingly becoming full of average software. 
Endless Ocean fleshed out ideas from PS1 cult classic Aquanaut’s Holiday, giving the player a whole ocean to explore at their leisure. The mixture of laid back gameplay, soothing sounds and lovely visuals wasn’t for everyone. However those who dived in were well rewarded with some breathtaking sights, making it the perfect game to kick back and chill out with.

That was two years ago, and I’m delighted to say the sequel improves on the original in almost every area. The first game's open-ended structure didn’t click with many gamers, so developer Arika have given the sequel a bit of direction this time around.

Starting out as a fledgling diver for a small scuba diving company in the Southern Pacific, the tale begins innocently enough, with what amounts to an enjoyable tutorial splashing about in a bright coral reef. Soon, however, you’ll be exploring deep caverns, murky rivers and chilly Arctic basins as you and your small team travel the globe trying to unravel the mysteries of the fabled Song of the Dragons.

The yarn is typical fare for the most part, but it does give the game a sense of purpose. It also draws the player gently along, dishing out new rewards such as a camera and underwater pen as the story progresses. It’s still possible to dive and explore at your leisure between the main plot points, and it’s here where you’ll spend much of your time. Treasures lie scattered about the ocean floor and as each item, fish and mammal is catalogued when discovered, it becomes something of an obsession scouring every nook and cranny.

The control system is identical to the original’s with just the Wiimote needed to play. It’s a comfortable set up and one most people will find easy to get to grips with. The biggest difference here is the area of exploration. The original game limited the player to a small circumference around their boat, with tedious trips back aboard required to move to a new area. Not so with the sequel.

The player is free to explore the oceans, although more care is needed when it comes to you oxygen supply. Another new introduction is a danger meter. The first game carried no hazards, but Endless Ocean 2 arms the player a Pulsar Gun which is used to repel dangerous creatures such as sharks. Strangely, it also doubles as a healing kit to nurse sick fish back to health. It’s one of the game’s weak points, as most players will simply want to explore without the threat of danger hanging over their heads.

It’s also possible to visit islands and secret coves, where land-based animals and birds reside. These excursions offer a nice change of pace and it’s always exciting discovering a new location. You have a base of operations, too, where you can keep track of your progress, get items evaluated, change diving gear, alter the time of day, read up on all the aquatic life you’ve discovered and develop any photographs you’ve taken. All pictures can be saved on to an SD card and uploaded on your PC.

Endless Ocean 2 also features some of the most impressive graphics yet seen on the Wii. While character animation above the water remains laughably wooden, the underwater sights are truly breathtaking. It’s gorgeous, packed with detail and some of the locations you visit are simply jaw-dropping. Coral reefs, shipwrecks, sunken palaces and crumbling ruins are just some of the sights that await.

Endless Ocean 2 is not a short game either. There’s dozens of hours of gameplay packed on to the disc, while online co-op returns to add a splash of longevity.

Those looking for relentless, all-action entertainment should seek their thrills elsewhere, but for gamers looking for something a bit different, Endless Ocean 2 is an underwater paradise.

Endless Ocean 2 - Wii

Endless Ocean 2 comes out on February 5 for the Wii, but I've had my review copy for the last few days. Really enjoying it so far, and it's perfect to play following a night of Mass Effect 2 action.

The first game was beautiful, but the sequel is just stunning. I've only put around four hours in, but already there is a great deal of variety and exciting places to discover. The annoying limited exploration space from the first game has thankfully been ditched. You can now explore large chunks of the ocean at your leisure.

I've been messing about with the in-game camera tonight, so I thought I would post a few snaps of my aquatic adventure. Still getting used to the focus effects, but I'm impressed with the results so far. As you can see, it's now possible to go ashore at certain points, something that was missing from the original.







If anyone tells you the Wii can't do good graphics, point them in the direction of Endless Ocean 2.

Mass Effect 2 - 360

Developer Bioware has a rich history in producing well thought-out, captivating role playing games. But with Mass Effect 2, they have created a game which eclipses all their past successes.

Polished to perfection and brimming with confidence, Mass Effect 2 is simply one of the best games I have played in the last 10 years.

Mass Effect 2 continues the story of Commander Shepard. But two years after he saved the universe, he has now been relegated to hunting down small pockets of Geth resistance. That is until a string of spectacular events see him working for Cerberus - a shadowy pro-human organisation. They are investigating the disappearance of human colonies throughout the galaxy, so Shepard is tasked with assembling a crew of diverse races and personalities and heads off in search of answers.

The original game wowed gamers with its dazzling visuals and character-driven narrative, however Mass Effect 2 stands head and shoulders above its predecessor in almost every way.

It's a more streamlined experience, with a better menu system, smart loading times, stunning visuals and fluid conversation choices.

Much like the first game, Mass Effect 2 is a third-person shooter mixed with role playing elements. However the original's flimsy gunplay has been beefed up considerably, making the sequel's action much more satisfying.

The radial combat and abilities dial makes a return, with the player able to command team-mates' actions with the touch of a button. Everything from overloading mechanical circuits to changing ammo is done of the fly, and it's incredibly easy to get your head around.

The storyline is typical sci-fi fare, spiced up with a heavy dose of political intrigue, but it holds together remarkably well thanks to the game's cast of characters. Each figure has a rich and detailed background which the player is free to probe into.

As the game progresses, more can be learned about the supporting cast, drawing the player further into Mass Effect's remarkable universe. The bonds between you and your squad are helped enormously by the near flawless voice acting.

This depth isn't confined to the game's main players - random characters you encounter on your galaxy-wide travels are equally as interesting. Special mention goes to the videogames salesman on the rebuilt Citadel, who makes references to Grand Theft Auto, World of Warcraft and Second Life. It's only a small aside which many players won't discover, but it's details such as this which take Mass Effect 2 to another level.

The Codex system also makes a return and it's from this menu the player can discover a wealth of information on the Mass Effect universe. Details on planets, governments, alien races, starships, technology and organizations are available. For those who want to know everything about the game's setting, this is an invaluable tool.

Running alongside the main storyline are plenty of optional side-quests. Whether you're resolving disputes, exploring hidden pockets of the galaxy, shopping for starship miniatures or choosing fish for your personal aquarium, there's dozens of hours of fun to be had for those who like to wander off the beaten path.

The bland ground-based planet exploration elements from the first game have been replaced with a scanning minigame, which allows the player to mine moons and planets for rich ore deposits. These are used to upgrade your armour, weapons and starship, but unfortunately they aren't very exciting and prove only slightly less tedious than the old system. It jars slightly as the rest of the game is such a fluid and enjoyable experience.

Despite this small flaw, Mass Effect 2 sparkles on every other level. The game's visuals, which are jaw-dropping in places, are a step up from last time. A slight grainy effect has been used which gives the game a cinematic quality, while the alien cities and planet surfaces Shepard and crew visit are stunning.

It's clear the developers were inspired by Eighties blockbuster Bladerunner, and the film's influence can be found throughout. However, it's Bioware's attention to detail which is truly staggering. Where other developers simply black-out windows and fence off areas with masses of debris, Bioware have instead given the player plenty to gawp at.

Peering out of windows reveals spectacular cityscapes, stunning vistas and fields of twinkling stars, while the lighting effects are simply out of this world. Take my advice and savour the experience and stop every so often to drink in the scenery. It's worth it. I've spent longer than is healthy gazing at Nos Astra's bustling skyline and peering out of the Normandy's windows.

The soundtrack, too is quite incredible, with chilled-out soundscapes gently washing over the action, while more dramatic themes kick in as the combat ramps up.

Epic in scope and littered with treasures, Mass Effect 2 sets the benchmark for future role playing games. It is simply one of the most absorbing and enjoyable games I've ever played, and, even in January, could be game of the year. An incredible achievement.

Dwarf Fortress - PC

I’ve been playing Dwarf Fortress for a while now, messing about with levers, traps, farms, stills, workshops and mining for precious metals. However, it takes a while to get into the swing of things due to the lack of tutorial and those ACSII graphics.

However, spend a few hours in its company, and Dwarf Fortress reveals itself to be one of the most absorbing games ever made.

Think of a mish-mash of Dungeon Keeper, The Sims, The Settlers with a dash of a good old-fashioned Roguelike and you’re almost there.

Starting with seven dwarves, the aim is to build a Mines of Moria style dwelling for your hard-working charges. Other migrants will flock to your fortress as the years pass, bringing their own unique challenges.

But along with carving a hole to live in a rock face, Dwarf Fortress incorporates other incredibly deep aspects which enhance the game, including hunting, fishing (watch out for the Carp), brewing, farming, trading, smelting, woodcutting, craft making and military training. There's plenty more besides, but that's a good enough start.

Along with looking after your dwarven community, you'll come across berserk dwarves, invasions and raids on your fortress which make the game unpredictable and utterly addictive.

There’s a tremendous amount to do and to keep track of. People talk about Grand Theft Auto as the ultimate sandbox game, but they have obviously never played Dwarf Fortress. You can do almost anything you want and with no end game to worry about, it’s fun to try new things. And if you fail, well, just start over. That’s the key - don’t be afraid of failure. As any Roguelike fan will tell you, failure is all part of the fun.

Each personal milestone is immensely satisfying and you’ll take great delight as your dwarves get married and throw a party, or when your armoursmith takes over a workshop, only to re-emerge with a beautifully detailed masterpiece.

It’s impossible for me to cover every aspect of the game, but it’s a marvel. And when you learn it’s still in its Alpha stage and has been created by one man - Tarn Adams, I salute you, sir – you begin to realise that Dwarf Fortress is something rather special.

It’s free to download and I would urge everyone to at least try the game. There are a fine selection of software tools to enhance the experience, including the brilliant 3D Dwarf Visualiser and a variety of tilesets if you can’t get over the default visuals, so give it a go.

And, if it grabs your attention, why not give Tarn a small donation for all his hard work.

Incidentally, a new version is planned, so keep your eyes on the Dwarf Fortress site for all the latest news. There's also an incredibly useful Dwarf Fortress Wiki, which makes interesting reading over a brew...that's a cup of tea, not a mug of foaming dwarven ale!

LINKS
Official site/forums
Dwarf Fortress Wiki
Captain Duck's Video Tutorials

Flipping crazy...

You can always trust the Japanese to unveil some off-the-wall products, but the latest Taito arcade game takes the biscuit.

Cho Chabudai Gaeshi is a game based on flipping tables out of sheer anger and frustration. The arcade cabinet comes complete with table, which players have to bang to get their family's attention - before the player finally cracks and launches the table across the room.

Check out this fantastic video of the game in action. Simply brilliant

Dark Void - 360/PS3

Nolan North is no stranger to voicing high profile video game characters. He's best know for wise-cracking, smooth-talking, all-action hero Nathan Drake in the Uncharted series. Once again his vocals have been called upon, as he pops up in Dark Void to lend his voice to protagonist Will.

The similarities to Uncharted don't stop at Mr North's vocal talents, as the opening hour or so of Capcom's first big game of the year bears an uncanny resemblance to the PS3 title. Trudging through a jungle location and diving for cover behind ruined walls, it's hard not to think of Uncharted.

Fortunately, the game transforms into an altogether different beast - but it takes a while to get there.

The story focuses on Will, a pilot whose plane crashes in the Bermuda Triangle. He soon finds himself in The Void, a world between worlds, where an evil alien race are based. Here, they shape-shift, secretly entering our world and worming their way into the hearts of governments across the globe. It's a ramshackle collection of incomprehensible nonsense, which involves alien robots, slick-skinned evil masters and dimensional portals.

Even Nikola Tesla makes an appearance, sharing his wisdom with Will in the shape of an unstable jetpack. Fortunately, the core gameplay holds up for the six short hours it takes to complete Dark Void. While the conventional cover system is ripped straight from other games, the vertical shooting action gives the game some originality.

Will nimbly leaps from one platform to the next, scaling huge structures, picking of sharp-shooting robots as he climbs higher and higher. It's great fun and leads to some genuinely vertigo-inducing moments. The jetpack is the main focus of the game, though, and Will can hover above his prey or fly like Superman depending on the situation.

It's a shame, then, that the first of three episodes fail to draw the player into the experience. It's not until Will actually enters The Void that the game starts to pick up. Swarmed by Boba Fett impersonators, he takes to the skies to do battle, but if truth be told, picking off these high flying enemies is easier if Will's feet are firmly kept on the ground.

Dark Void also offers large chunks of air-to-air combat. Will can either take part in these mid-air skirmishes with the aid of his jetpack, or commandeer other craft such as enemy flying saucers. These sections are entertaining the first couple of times, but in an effort to pad out what is still an incredibly short game, these high flying escapades are repeated throughout.

Along with Uncharted's influence, the game shamelessly rips elements from a bunch of other titles including Mass Effect, Prey and Dead Space. Ancient quicktime events also rear their head, usually when taking on a boss or smacking an alien in the face at 20,000 ft, so expect lots of frantic button mashing and furious stick waggling.

Dark Void provides a handful of enjoyable moments, but really there's not much here. It's certainly not better than the titles it's influenced by - perhaps the sequel will improve the formula.

Problem solved, Professor...

I've never been a particular fan of videogame merchandise, but this Japanese Professor Layton figure certainly caught my eye. It's been created by Revoltech and it's wonderfully crafted. It comes with various accessories including handbook, chair, pen and the obligatory teacup and saucer. It will go on sale at around 2400 Yen, which roughly equates to £20. It's utterly adorable, but guaranteed to sell out when it launches in Japan in March.

Bayonetta - 360/PS3

The battle between Heaven and Hell is hardly a new plot device in videogames, but never has it been conveyed quite like this.

Bayonetta, a sassy leather-clad witch with super-human powers, is on a one-woman mission to reveal the truth about her past in a game that bears more than a passing resemblance to the Devil May Cry series. The story is somewhat absurd and at times is almost impossible to comprehend, but that doesn’t stop Bayonetta from being a flashy and highly polished rollercoaster ride.

From the guns on her ankles to the panther-like way she nimbly outflanks her opponents, Bayonetta is one of the most striking videogame characters of recent times. Her ice cool demeanor in the face of some truly jaw-dropping foes marks her out as the most recognisable female protagonists this side of Lara Croft.
Although the game is a largely linear experience, it’s the fluid combat which sets Bayonetta apart from other hack and slash titles. Button mashing is effective, but getting the most out of Bayonetta requires careful study of the game’s rich and deep combo system.

Bayonetta’s every move is beautifully choreoagraphed and as you would expect from a game featuring a sultry vamp who conjures giant stilettos from thin air to pummel her foes and summons demons from her jet-black hair, every aspect of Bayonetta is deliciously over the top.

From running up the walls of a towering structure and leaping through dimensional portals, to messing with the flow of time and battling gargantuan celestial beings, Bayonetta oozes quality throughout the 12 hours you’ll spend in her company on the first play through.

Combat is further refined by the addition of Witch Time, activated when Bayonetta successfully dodges an enemy attack at the last possible moment. Slow motion kicks in giving the bespectacled protagonist precious time to unleash a devastating series of strikes. It helps, of course, that the control system is beautifully implemented. Each press of a button gracefully moves Bayonetta into action, making the game a joy to watch and play.

While it's easy to heap praise on Bayonetta, it's not the perfect game some would have you believe. While the heavenly hosts you face in battle are impressive, many of the same creatures pop up throughout the game. This lessens the impact and leads to some monotonous trawls, as Bayonetta smacks down the same enemies time and time again. The game's visuals are eye-popping, but occasional slowdown and screen tearing spoil the effects, while the cut scenes tend to drag in places.

Checkpoints are well placed, but you can only save to the hard drive after every level, something which caused me a bit of grief in latter stages.

There's nothing game-breaking here, but there's just enough to blot the copy book. Still, the good outweighs the bad by a considerable margin and even after completing the main quest there are still plenty of unlockables stashed away to entice you back.

Bayonetta is simply a brilliant title. Play it for an hour and she'll have her hooks in you. Time flies by as you zone into the action, becoming one with the controller as your thumbs effortlessly press in button combos to unleash deadly attacks. A magnificent title that falls just short of being an all-time great.

Greetings from Azeroth

I’ve been playing a bit of World of Warcraft recently, well quite a lot actually. I’m still on the European Draenor server where I have two characters: Balderak, a lvl 62 Dwarven Hunter, and Balorn, a lvl 13 Dwarven Paladin.

I’ve been playing on and off since launch - I was involved briefly in the Beta - but still like booting it up every so often. I’ve joined a new guild and although I’m a strictly casual player, I’m having a great time. I’ve been taking snaps from my time with the game, so I thought I would share some.

Enjoy.