Product Reviews

Bored of blasting away faceless foes? Then try a more considered approach. The tactical, team-based gameplay of the Rainbow Six series stands in contrast to the high-speed, lone-warrior mayhem offered by most shoot-'em-ups, and its latest outing, Raven Shield, is no exception.

The first thing to strike you is the game's stunning graphics. The blocky visuals of the earlier games have been replaced with crisp, detailed scenes that complement the tense atmosphere.

At the start

Most levels involve rescuing hostages, all of whom will be killed if their kidnappers see you. To make things more difficult, enemy fire is painfully realistic - one hit and you're done for. You have a limited number of top-class troops, so it's easy to fail a mission.

You can increase your chance of success by turning on the auto-aim option. This makes things easier, but lessens the game's gripping atmosphere.

Apart from the difficulty and a lack of variety in missions, there's little to criticise. The game's weapons are realistic, and your fiendishly intelligent enemies offer a greater challenge than those of any other shoot-'em-up around.

If you love stealth and eat tension for breakfast, Raven Shield is an essential purchase. However, if you lack patience, avoid it, or risk your sanity.