Massively-hyped games rarely live up to their potential. Assassin's Creed is a case in point, and you could argue that Fable II - and previously Black and White from the stable of Mr Molyneux - are also prime examples. For this reason, I didn't have high hopes for Activision's much-touted blockbuster, Prototype.

Taking on the role of Alex Mercer, you have to roam New York streets that have been infected by a bizarre plague. Your mission is to uncover the truth about what in the world turned the populace into zombie-like creatures and what gave you special powers and the ability to absorb pretty much anyone, taking on their guise and abilities! Story-wise, there are no real surprises here.

But throw together a hint of Crackdown, a touch of Grand Theft Auto, smidgen of Saints Row and a lot of comic book inspiration, and you have one hell of a game.

I'm a little bemused by the mixed reception Alex has had since he hit our screens in June for the Xbox 360 and PS3. Most critics slate the graphical appearance of the game, claiming they're underwhelmed by its aesthetics, while others aren't too fond of the fiddly control system or the convoluted plot. Me? I think it's brilliant - and haven't been so hooked on a game since guiding Niko around the streets of Liberty City in GTA IV.

Right from the start, you're thrown in at the deep end; a fully powered-up Alex, blessed with all manner of over the top attacks and powers having to fight his way out of trouble.

Not only can he consume his foes to gain their appearance and powers, but he can glide through the air like Batman, launch a long-range web-like attack like Spiderman, or beat his enemies to a pulp with a huge fist like Hellboy.

What's more, our protagonist can destroy those around him with tendrils that emanate from his body, or skewer the bad guys with giant spikes that arise from the ground... I lost count of the number of power-ups and special abilities you gain during the game but there's plenty to keep you interested.

And let's not forget the addition of Parkour - the free-running that was central to Assassin's Creed is even more effective and well-used in Prototype, and far more enjoyable.

The first few minutes have to be among the most exciting introductions to a game I've ever seen. After a bit of mindless destruction - trying to get to grips with this super-charged character - the screen fades to black, and a cut scene fills you in on how he found himself in this predicament in the first place. Then, just as quickly as you had all those awesome powers, they disappear!

From then on, it's a pretty steep learning curve as you chase key characters, hijack tanks and helicopters, and confront snarling beasties dotted about the city.



This really is a great example of a sandbox game. The environment is recognizable thanks to a decent rendition of the New York streets (Times Square looks great), and there is plenty of freedom to hack and slash your way through the salivating hordes of zombies or to take part in the numerous side missions on offer. There's nothing more satisfying than grabbing a tank and ploughing through oncoming traffic, or running over the military forces that try to stop you!

And it all sounds pretty great too. From the screams of the locals, to the gun shots ringing through the crowded streets, or the radio transmissions of soldiers calling for urgent assistance.

The explosions are big, bold and noisy - and the gore is plentiful... blood splatters all over the place when Alex hacks at people with his vicious-looking claws.

Missions are fairly well paced but, I admit, can get a little repetitive. The difficulty is pretty random too: some levels are a breeze requiring you to kidnap a bystander and absorb them for their abilities or knowledge, whereas other levels see you protecting a tank or laboratory, destroying countless swarms of bad guys and then confronting a massively tough boss.

But I forgive all its little quirks. For me, it was completely engrossing and fun. Being able to scale skyscrapers, leap off and glide about the city added a whole new dimension to what would otherwise been pretty standard fare.

I played it solidly for my week-long review but even then there was plenty I hadn't seen or done. For the sheer entertainment factor, I have no hesitation in suggesting that everyone go out and buy a copy! Even now, weeks later, it still resides in my disc drive.

(Video credit: masoale93)