Games

Condemned 2: Bloodshot

Publisher: Sega

Platform: Reviewed on Xbox 360, also available on PS3

Price: £34.99

Certificate: 18

A sinner walks the streets tonight

As the British gaming market considers its stance on games ratings Condemned 2: Bloodshot has been released, proving adult games have a place in the market and that they are definitely only for the over 18s.

The game is a horrific and shocking journey into some of the worst locations ever visited in this modern day first person horror adventure game. It's a cold and traumatic ride with the retired detective Ethan Thomas into his world of drug-crazed hobos and rioting lunatics - searching for serial killer.

Horror finds new heights here, of that there is no doubt. As you step through the decaying city you war against a faceless predator and a 2000-year old corruption. You find yourself screaming out loud at the immersive terror available in this uncompromising offering.

The combat is brutal perhaps more brutal than anything seen before (yet still works well) and the contemporary storyline chillingly believable, filled with nightmare qualities.

The soundtrack is a hellish joy too, playing like a John Carpenter anthology, screeching unnervingly to a demonic beat. This really is a game that has to be played alone, in a dark room with the speakers on and the curtains closed.

And its all of this that drags you kicking and screaming into the game, pulling you into the role of Detective Thomas. Your heart begins to beat, your brow sweat and you know that this game is the spiritual son of the Resident Evil series.

Yes playing Condemned 2 is just like being in the scariest horror film you've ever seen. And for these qualities the game can not be rivalled despite little hindrances like unintelligent clipping that hint how this genre hasn't come too far since the PS2.

Boundaries are broken and taboos shattered, and all the time you find yourself getting pulled helplessly further and further into the world of Condemned 2: Bloodshot. But is this a good thing?

If you like horror and terrifying experiences that make you jump out of your skin then yes. If you own Saw 4 and Halloween on Blu-ray and love thunderous rides at Alton Towers this will be right up your street, the epitome of good gaming.

But if you're a parent you may well think the moral critics have a valid point when voicing their fears. While the forensic aspect of Condemned 2 gives the title a little more credibility their is no denying the game relies on the base elements of fear to hook you to the adventure.

If you're over 18 pick this one up, for the experience if nothing else.