Kaan: Barbarian's Blade - PS2

Kaan: Barbarian's Blade, produced by Eko System, has suffered numerous setbacks since it was first announced. The game was originally planned for release at the end of 2002, but numerous delays meant that the game wouldn't be finished until early 2004. Nevertheless, it's here now, and the finished product benefits greatly from the extra development time.

Tothum Siptet, the sorcerer with evil powers, has stolen the Orb of Hope, and it's you, young barbarian Kaan, who's volunteered to recover it. But you'll become caught up in an arduous hunt before you can save your home world from a miserable future, as you face myriad henchmen and fierce beasts.

Initially, players of Kaan are likely to make comparisons to several other well-known platform adventures. Jak II, Mark of Kri and even Maximo all look similar. Players must simply find their way through the game's many locales using a variety of weapons, combos and special abilities. On this occasion our protagonist is armed with a long sword, hammer and axe, and there are a great number of ways to use them.

It's a hack 'n' slash game of sorts, complete with platforming elements and stunning cartoon-like visuals. Good stuff. more