Available only on PS2

IF you are already a fan of the Final Fantasy series then you will know what to expect with the latest instalment, Final Fantasy X-2.

However, X-2 has added some new storylines and lots of different elements in order to appeal to both the avid Final Fantasy gamer and newcomers to the series.

This is the first sequel in the entire Final Fantasy series, and continues about two years after final Fantasy X.

One of the main characters, Yuna, has joined a band called The Gullwings. Along with the other two group members, Rikku and Paine, Yuna sails around in their airship, hunting down magic spheres which contain images of the past.

The introduction of this airship is a massive development in the Final Fantasy series.

Instead of wandering around the vast world, you can simply fly there in mere seconds, enabling the plot line to progress a lot faster.

You fight a various range of creatures and can once again utilise the dress-up system, enabling you to change costume mid-combat and, therefore, gain different skills and abilities.

To achieve some of the best skills and abilities you have to obtain "dresspheres" which are littered around the world.

The biggest problem with Final Fantasy X-2, as with all the Final Fantasies, is the random battles which hit you as you are walking around trying to get somewhere. It is both boring and highly annoying, as they are often the same type of creature and slow down your progress.

Overall, Final Fantasy fans have been disappointed with this title. However, newcomers to the series have been impressed, which makes me believe that this game was designed to encourage new gamers rather than to appeal to the existing fans.

Rating 7/10

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UPCOMING

Ghost Recon Jungle Storm + headset (PS) - March 5

Mafia (XBOX) - March 5

Tak and the Power of Juju (GBA) - March 12

Spawn: Armageddon (GC, PS2, XBOX) - March 12

Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles (GC) - March 12

Dancing Stage Unleased (XBOX) - March 12

Splinter Cell 2: Pandora Tomorrow (PS2, XBOX, GC, GBA) - March 26

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (PS2, XBOX, GC) - May 28

Driver 3 (PS2, XBOX) - June 1.