Charlie Murder

Charlie Murder
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Publisher: Microsoft Studios
Reviewed On: Xbox 360
Cert: 18
Available On: Xbox 360

It's an often-spun tale: the band member who didn't quite make the cut or was abandoned just before they hit the big time. But usually, the left-behind band member doesn't strike a deminoc deal and turn into the Big Evil, threatening the world. Punk rock band Charlie Murder are on a quest to save the world from rivals Gore Quaffer and their evil followers. How you do that is (sort of) up to you. Charlie Murder teams combat with RPG-style elements. You fight your way through ninjas, zombies and demonic creatures, unlocking moves by building up your fan base and getting tattoos, and earning power-ups through brewing beer. Each band member has their own particular talent. Rather than unlockable players, the game has unlockable bands, so it's best to approach it as a group with friends rather than as a solo effort. Though it's not a perfect game, Charlie Murder has enough charm to make you want to see it through to the end.

Ciara O'Brien

Ciara O'Brien

Ciara O'Brien is an Irish Times business and technology journalist