Game Zone reviews

PlayStation 2

The first 3-D rendering of the Caped Crusader, based on the cartoon series, this looks top-dollar.
If only it played that way. Although promising the whole of Gotham City to explore, that in actuality means 19 areas that are tightly cordoned to keep you on mission. This ain't no free-roamer. Within five episodes, you come up against all the usual suspects: the Joker, Mr Freeze, Poison Ivy and various henchmen.
It takes a while to get used to the button configuration and the playability is a bit restrictive, but it's put together so damned impressively that I'm ready to forgive the oversights if you can. (NP)

Klonoa 2: Lunatea's veil

PlayStation 2

Namco puts forth a great effort on the PS2 with Klonoa 2. The game originally appeared on PlayStation and it was good then, but it's so much better now.
There is a choice of three playable characters, each having a distinct range of moves, but all capable of using magic hoops that can be used to capture enemies or to fly short distances. Sounds naff, but these hoops kick ass. There are a series of worlds, each guarded by a boss and divided into sub-levels.
Your job is to battle the bosses and collect a few things on the way. The three Ls: lovely controls, likeable challenges and, erm... lush presentation. (HM)

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