NARUTO: Ultimate Ninja

The UK is almost always left to last when it comes to releasing new games (and hardware) but sometimes the delays get so extreme that by the time the game actually makes it out it almost seems an insult to be reminded how long you had to wait. This game first came out in 2003 and has already enjoyed two sequels and a portable version - so its a good job that now its actually out its proved to be worth the wait. Naturally the ninja-filled anime lends itself very well to a traditional one-on-one beat em-up and as such its not at all dissimilar to the recent Super Dragon Ball Z, with a series of large multi-tired arenas filled with power-ups, extra weapons and even temporary assistant characters.

The basic moves are common to all the characters, which makes the game easy to pick up and play but also dooms it to being a bit of a button masher. The greatest complexity comes in the use of each characters unique special move, powered by chakra energy which you have to collect as you go. Setting off one of these moves takes you to a quick cut away where you have to quickly copy the onscreen commands to unleash the ridiculously powerful attacks. Although none of them are particularly original, there are plenty of different game modes to keep your interest, including proper story campaigns for each of the dozen or so characters. The best part of the game though is the authentic presentation, including a very impressive cel-shaded technique that makes the graphics look more like the original magna than even the cartoon. Indeed the only real problem is knowing that theres already at least two extra sequels out there that are even better.