Tekken 4 (PlayStation 2 )

By JON MINIFIE

(Herald rating: * * * * )

Like so many big franchises, Tekken began life as a coin-op, then in 1996 was ported to the PlayStation, which was very much a newborn console.

Through the strength of arcade titles such as Tekken and Ridge Racer, the PlayStation gained an important foothold and they've never really looked back.

On PlayStation 2, Tekken Tag Tournament was one of the more solid first-generation titles, but this new version looks set to outshine its predecessor.

What is it that sets Tekken apart from the throng?

The first factor is the strength of the many characters - some will already be familiar with a lot of them. Firm favourites such as Heihachi, King, Yoshimitsu, Hwoarang, Nina Williams and Kazuya are joined by a few newcomers, including Steve Fox - a Brit boxer with no kick moves - and the long-limbed Christie.

There are stacks of new and old characters, around 25 in total, with different fighting styles, so there's something for everyone.

The control system is highly intuitive, making Tekken 4 perfect for more casual gamers, who can pick up enough moves to get by in only a few sittings. For the more seasoned Tekken fans, there are endless new attacks, combos and counter moves to master.

As you might expect, Namco has given Tekken 4 a thorough facelift - even the UI has been tweaked and is looking very cool.

Boasting a much higher level of detail, the characters and the 3D backgrounds have never looked better.

Fans of the series have never had it so good, but Tekken 4 will likely attract a new generation of console fighters.

Whether you're a masher or a master, Tekken 4 is a must for PS2 fight fans, though don't expect huge changes.


Ferrari F355 Challenge HHH

PlayStation 2 $119.95

This game also began life as a coin-op, was then ported over to the Dreamcast and now it's available for the PlayStation 2 complete with stacks of new features.

A lot of work has gone into redesigning the architecture of the games engine and the results are impressive.

It has improved views and camera angles, enhanced replay options, and a new Driver Challenge Mode, which assesses you on how well you do during the race, with points for good driving skills and racing methods.

Also built-in is cool Gallery Mode, which holds some dramatic still images and movies from Ferrari's archives - you can unlock these by finishing the various sections of the game.

Heading the team in charge of redesigning the game for PS2, Yu Suzuki apparently enjoyed the challenge of adapting his game for a console where top driving games are customary. "What I felt during PlayStation development was that a racing game on PS2 would be an extremely competitive genre. If we are going to release in such conditions, we have to make our game stand out from the rest. I believe we have achieved that objective in Ferrari F355 Challenge."

$129.95

jon@tenthplanet.co.nz