Reviews

Lego Star Wars is the pick of today's reviews. The cutesy, yet amusing, re-enactment of battles from Star Wars Episodes I-III is easy to pick up and play. "Varied gameplay sequences, such as pod racing, are plentiful and challenging, and a Free Play mode offers replay value", says reviewer Steve Boxer. Aimed at kids maybe, but adults will get a lot out of this - especially when playing with another person. Lets hope they bring out one based on the original movies. Next up is another good 'un - Freedom Force vs The Third Reich. As you'd expect with a title like that, this is one game that doesn't take it self too seriously. This is comic-book strategy/role-playing action that is all about creating your own superhero and learning how to use your powers. Rhianna Pratchett is impressed. "It is obvious that Irrational has had as much fun developing this game as you will have playing it", she says. Last and least is Matrix Online. I've been playing far too much of World of Warcraft recently - what an utterly compelling relationship-killer that game is - and was interested to see how its new competitor shaped up. Not very well is the answer. While there are some interesting elements - stylish combat, movie plot premise - the game basically feels unfinished. At least for now then, this is one for patient and understanding Matrix fans only.