Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars

Nintendo DS (R16)

Pros: Playing a violent GTA game on any of Nintendo's family-focused gadgets is a bit like getting Hayley Westenra to front 8 Foot Sativa - it just doesn't seem right. But this DSi title heads the ever-popular GTA series back to the top-down approach seen in GTA2. Players become embroiled in a Triad power struggle, set in the familiar surrounds of Liberty City (exactly the same, minus one island). Fortunately, most controls are mapped to the same buttons as other consoles which makes it a pick-up-and-play title for anyone with GTA history. The upper screen is used for main gameplay, while the lower touchscreen becomes the focus for GPS and other utilities. Occasionally players are asked to use the lower screen for basic tasks like using the stylus to hotwire cars. Auto-targeting additions are welcome, especially when trying to carry out a quality drive by shootings while hurtling down narrow streets.

Cons: Using the touchscreen throughout the game can prove a bit annoying, especially when having to switch weapons during a gun battle - run out of ammo, pick up stylus, whoops, my head is missing. Other touch-based minigames are entertaining - letting you make Molotovs and tattoo new Triad prospects.

Verdict: Video nasty meets Nintendo cute world - and goes off like a bomb. A solid title with a good 9-10 hours of gameplay, this is highly recommended, but just like the R16 sticker says - it's not for the kiddies.