GAME: Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex for PS2

This is only the second game based on the popular Anime Ghost in the Shell cartoons – which is amazing in the days when licenses with brand recognition are milked for all they’re worth.

Fans of the DVD (and the comics) will be happy to hear that this is a stylish addition to the universe, with the slow-mo Matrix-style kicks and punches creating a visual treat. However, the switch between three characters – with different agility and weapons – isn’t enough to fill out the gameplay and it falls short of being a really great game.

There’s still plenty to do, kill and figure out, though, and the controls are extremely easy to get to grips with. My biggest complaint is about the gap between save points, which forced me play on into the night to finish a level. At least, that’s my excuse.

Buy Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex at Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com

Game reviews by Matt Chapman