18 cert, Bandai/Namco, Xbox 360 ***

What do you look for in a role-playing game? If you like originality and customisable characters, you've come to the wrong place. But if you enjoy an engaging, brutal story with a variety of weapons and nasty spells, then welcome aboard. In this new, expanded version of the game, you play a "witcher" (or monster-slayer) named Geralt. Noble, but gruff, you must clear your name after being framed for the assassination of a well-liked king. There's much to enjoy in this RPG. The story is strong and the medieval setting is detailed and suitably grimy. There are some nice touches, such as a medallion that
highlights important items and cuts back on the meandering searches that plague some RPGs. On the debit side, it lacks the nuance of some competitors, especially in the combat and menus. Still, while a little rough around the edges, The Witcher 2 is a scrappy, engaging affair; bloody and muddy in equal measure.