Gaming Reviews

The latest games reviewed

MAG: Massive Action Game ****

16 cert, Sony Computer Entertainment, PS3

MAG is exactly what you're expecting. The online-only game taps into Sony's network of players, allowing up to 256 people per battle, thus neatly taking care of the "massive" claim. As for action, the title certainly has it.

It's the year 2025; on the surface there is world peace, but a global crisis is on the horizon, with riots, rapidly declining currencies, and fuel and food shortages. This sets the scene for the Shadow War, an ongoing battle between private military corporations. Your mission is to join one of these PMCs and move your way up the ranks, honing your skills or brushing up on your leadership qualities.

If there's a fault with this first-person shooter, it's that by the time you work your way through the training, you'll be shot to pieces by better skilled players within minutes. It's a steep learning curve - but once you master it, Massive Action Gameis seriously addictive.

Half-minute Hero ****

12 cert, Rising Star Games, PSP

How would you cope if you only had 30 seconds to save the world? Half-Minute Herois a game for those who thrive under pressure, powering ahead on the premise that any hero worth their salt should be able to get the job done in a short space of time. The result is a fast-paced RPG that will keep you occupied for hours, despite the short deadlines. Every level sees your enemy place new obstacles your way, with a new "Dark Lord" to fight at each location. The graphics are a nod to 16-bit Japanese games, with a few modern touches. Half-Minute Heromanages to tap into two things that attract gamers: humour and action. While you can buy yourself time (by praying to a goddess!), it's the speed of the game that is one of its best points. Forget about spending hours getting to the next level - this game allows you to speed your way there, ramming your enemies as you go. Ideal for short attention spans.

Sonic & Sega Allstars Racing ***

7 cert, Sega, DS (also PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, PC)

You can't beat a good Sonicgame. The fleet-footed hedgehog is back to show the rest of us just how racing should be done, joined by characters such as Dr Eggman and Tails. The aim is to be first past the post, and you choose from a variety of vehicles to help you achieve that goal. In among the usual cars and bikes is a rather fetching banana mobile.

Equally varied are the tracks: on one level you may find yourself racing around a castle; on another you vie for first place in a rainforest. As expected, there are the usual obstacles to impede your progress toward the podium, along with your fellow competitors and the various weapons they can collect along the way. If you get knocked out of the race, however, there's always a way back in; each character has its own special move aimed at making up some time, including the "super Sonic" move. Excellent fun.