Hunter - The Reckoning: Redeemer Xbox

The hack 'n' slash game is still without a doubt one of the most popular genres around, in an age where gaming is becoming more complicated by the day. High Voltage's Hunter: The Reckoning was a fine example of this in 2002, and the series' popularity is set to grow even more with Hunter the Reckoning: Redeemer on Xbox. Taking place two years after the events that transpired in the previous game, Redeemer sees players returning once again to the small town of Ashcroft where they must slay endless streams of hideous and hostile creatures before overcoming the evil force that hides behind them. In this instance there are five Hunter characters available to play as, each of which typically have their own set of unique weapons and supernatural abilities. But when it comes down to it, all you have to do is force your way through the games 20 areas, largely using brute force. However, gameplay has been expanded a little for this outing, combining melee, ranged and spell-driven attacks. It makes the game a little more strategic, and consequently more challenging. At the heart of the game lies a co-operative multi-player adventure in which up to four players can simultaneously unleash their attacks on nearby zombies and ogres - just for fun, if they want. It's the most attractive attribute of Redeemer and is welcome in an industry where co-operatives game are too few and far between. Redeemer is a great addition to the Hunter series and paves the way for a future sequel.