Gangs of London

From the same team that brought us the delightful Getaway games, Gangs of London is a vicarious, illicit thrill-ride through the seamy side of life in the capital of Eng-er-land. You - the gamer - take the role of the Guv'ner of the gang of your choosing: Londoners, Russians, Asians, Triads and Yardies are on offer from the outset. The aim is to take over London's gangland, and not by fair means, just foul. The aforementioned gangs are all known for their brutality; some more than others, so be careful who you cross swords with.

The core action in Gangs of London is mission-based combat, in which you lead a team of gangsters. There are 60+ missions available, and each member of your gang is a playable character replete with different weapons and abilities. Missions are replayable with the various members of your gang, thus adding to the longevity of the main game mode.

There is also a Gang Battle strategy mode in Gangs of London, offering a turn-based game which, with a combination of skill, nerve and chance, players can go up against as many as four other gamers on a single PSP, or compete against the machine's AI. A combination of some of the best elements of card games, pub games and board games, Gang Battle features an interactive map divided into turf. Any mug knows what's coming next. Battling over territory is the name of this particular game, and bluffing your way through as you attack and defend turf can be a tad frustrating but also a bit of a hoot.

There's a free-roaming mode included, with your own choice of mission objectives, character, weapons and vehicles and such like. The Knowledge will pit you against a London cabbie and a test of your street nous. Soon you'll know London like the back of your hand. You can even be a tourist in free roaming mode, unlocking extras as you photograph famous landmarks.

There's a lot to do in Gangs of London, so if you feel like getting interactive instead of just sitting there watching Lock stock for the umpteenth time, this version of London is alright for a visit, even if you wouldn't really want to live there.