18 cert, Ready at Dawn/Sony, PSP ****

Kratos – the Spartan warrior turned God of War just can't get a break. When he's not making shady deals with the gods, he's rescuing family members from oblivion. In Ghost of Sparta, a spin-off from the huge God of War franchise, our hero traipses across fantastical, ancient worlds in a quest for his lost brother. This is a hack-and- slasher that features limb- tearing, blood-spraying violence and fast-moving quick-time events. It's bloody good fun: The graphics are cinematic and imaginative, from the ghoulish beasts to the opulent location design. The exciting gameplay mixes combat with exploration and clever puzzles. Voicework is from the Christian Bale School of Overacting, but the only real complaint is that, after four games, Ghost of Spartacan feel a little like too many trips to the well. Heartily recommended nonetheless.