Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror (PS2)

In a nutshell: After two disappointing sequels on the home consoles suddenly it’s down to the PSP to save Syphon Filter, as hero Gabe Logan saves the world from terrorists in this superior portable action game. The lowdown: With only one analogue stick making camera control a real problem the PSP has struggled when it comes to decent third person action games. This though is easily the best yet with superb graphics and presentation and tons of voiceovers for a great cinematic feel. Just like the earlier games this is a more action orientated spin on Metal Gear Solid as you use a wide range of gadgetry from thermal imagers to motion sensing grenades. Combat works great too, especially the way you can aim from behind cover and quickly jump out, guns blazing. A solid lock-on control system also helps to keep frustration at a minimum in this real return to form for the series.

Most exciting moment: On top of the lengthy single player campaign the game also has an eight player online mode, including full voice chat. This lets you play the game as anything from a deathmatch style free-for-all to an objective based co-operative version of the story mode.

Since you ask: Although there’s still no word of whether a new Syphon Filter game will appear on the PlayStation 3 a PSP sequel is strongly hinted at in the final cut scene of Dark Mirror.

The bottom line: The best action game on the PSP and the best Syphon Filter for years. HARRISON DENT