Video Game Reviews by Jeb Haught

DEVELOPER: Volition Inc.

PUBLISHER: THQ

SYSTEM: Microsoft Xbox 360 (PS3, PC)

PRICE: $59.99

ESRB RATING: Mature

REVIEW RATING: 4.5 stars (out of 5)

When the first "Red Faction" title was released way back in 2001 on last-gen systems, it was the first game to, ahem, break away from tradition and introduce advanced environmental destruction. Now, Volition brings 'Red Faction Guerrilla' to current systems, and the result is nothing short of amazing!

Just like it's predecessors, this game takes place on Mars and follows a seemingly normal miner as he is swept up in the local civil war and recruited to help the Red Faction topple the oppressive Earth Defense Force. Using guerrilla tactics, players can guide Alec Mason from a raw recruit to become the infamous leader of the Red Faction.

Fans of the series will immediately discover some big changes, like the switch from a first-person to third-person camera angle and the elimination of a linear campaign in favor of a gigantic, open-world full of various missions to undertake. I welcome the camera change because now players can use the handy new cover system.

Switching to an open-world game means players can choose what they want to do next, whether it be rescuing hostages, defending miners from Earth Defense Force raids, stealing vehicles, intercepting couriers, blowing up convoys, raiding Earth Defense Force territory, and much more! In addition, there are plenty of non-mission activities like mining ore, destroying Earth Defense Force property, locating vehicles, and exploring the barren Red Planet.

Of course, the star of this show is the Geo Mod 2 destruction system that lets players realistically cause damage to almost anything in the game. Watch in awe as buildings break apart while concrete slabs and steel girders fall all around Alec during hectic gunfights. It's even possible to topple buildings and smokestacks onto enemies using this fun-filled sandbox of destruction.

Players will enjoy a wide assortment of destructive weapons, like rocket launchers and anti-matter guns, to use against both the Earth Defense Force and the environment. There are also plenty of futuristic Martian vehicles to procure as well as ultra-destructive mining Mechs.

Several online multiplayer modes round out 'Red Faction Guerrilla,' and advanced destruction can be used strategically to take out enemies. Fans of the series will love this game, and for newcomers, there's no better time to join the Red Faction.

"LocoRoco 2" Hits All the Right Notes

DEVELOPER: Sony

PUBLISHER: Sony

SYSTEM: Sony PSP

PRICE: $19.99

ESRB RATING: Everyone

REVIEW RATING: 4 (out of 5 stars)

Japanese game developers are known for their eccentric taste in entertainment.

Who else would create a game where players assume the role of a mosquito, or one where a brave plumber must save his girlfriend from a giant ape named Donkey Kong?

In 2006, "LocoRoco" introduced the idea of tilting the planet to steer jelly-like creatures around instead of directly controlling them, and the sequel builds upon this concept by adding welcome new features.

Just like the original game, the player controls in "LocoRoco 2" are simple yet effective. The L and R buttons are used for tilting the planet left or right, which causes the LocoRoco to roll in that direction. Pressing both of them simultaneously causes the planet to bounce up, which in turn makes the LocoRoco jump. Tapping the circle button quickly causes a crack of lightning that separates the LocoRoco, and holding the circle button down causes an earthquake that combines the LocoRoco back together. In addition, holding down the circle button when in water activates the new swim ability.

Since the dastardly Moja has created a new musical weapon that wilts plants, the only recourse is to bring them back to pristine condition by splitting the LocoRoco into many individuals and breaking out in song. This nonsensical crooning is one of the cutest features of the game and it also helps to wake tired creatures. New instruments can be found by discovering hidden notes in each level.

Some gamers aren't interested due to the odd nature of "LocoRoco 2," but those that give it a try will be surprised at how much fun a simple game like this can be.

REVIEW SCORING SYSTEM

5 stars = Must Have

4 stars = Pretty Good

3 stars = Above Average

2 stars = Bargain Bin

1 star = Don't Bother

RATINGS KEY

Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB)

E: Everyone

E10-plus: (Everyone 10 and older)

T: Teen (13 and older)

M: Mature (17 and older)

To find out more about Jeb Haught and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2009 CREATORS SYNDICATE INC.