Xbox 360 (PG)
Pros: Taking the successful Halo first person shooter franchise and turning it into something completely different was always going to be a risk. Halo Wars is a real time strategy (RTS) version of the alien blaster, set 20 years before the original Halo. But where most RTSs
are PC-based, getting one playable on a console took some doing. As a result, this shares little with the likes of "traditional" RTS games - strategy lite is probably a more accurate description. The object is to build supply depots in your bases, as you upgrade armies and weaponry to defend what you've got and attack others to get more. The controls are pretty basic and easy to get your head around, meaning fast and flowing gameplay that flies in the face of typical RTS style. There are hordes of tooled-up enemies to cope with - and it pays to hit them with everything you've got early, the massive firefights are well-rendered, fluid and border on frantic at times. Graphically impressive, Halo Wars captures the series' feel perfectly .
Cons: Hardcore RTS fans will struggle to maintain interest - it just doesn't have the depth of titles of Age of Empires, although newbies will enjoy its ease of use.
Verdict: Halo-heads, you need this one. RTS players should have a go - it won't sate your inner General, but could be a pleasant surprise. A groundbreaking console conversion that brings strategy to the masses with no lack of fast-paced action.
