The Punisher

Format PlayStation 2

Developer Volition

Publisher THQ

Genre Action

Frank Castle really isn't a happy man. He's not really one to nip down the pub for a swift pint with some close friends. Nor can he be found taking a relaxing stroll in the park on a Sunday afternoon, pausing for candyfloss and a quick go on the swings. Frank Castle only speaks one language and that language is violent, psychopathic revenge. Be afraid. Very afraid.

What you have here is basically Max Payne for the bloodthirsty. The Punisher is a third-person shooter which tips a nod to the video game film noir classic before stomping all over its memory with a size 15 jackboot and a series of horrifying murders.

The game has actually been toned down for release, hardly surprising after the media uproar over titles like Manhunt and San Andreas. There's much less blood in the game than previously; removing limbs requires more than one shot and the 'special interrogation' kills now occur in black and white. The overall effect is still shocking - the quick kills involving point blank headshots and horrible beatings never fail to make us flinch. Sadly, it also looks even more pointless, the lack of blood and general censor-driven half-heartedness of previously powerful scenes makes a once potent game look somewhat subdued. Neutered, perhaps.

It remains to be seen whether this will remain the case for the finished version of the game, there is still time for the gore to make a return, but it's worrying just how much the experience suffers for having it removed. Let's all hope it makes a comeback before our review next month.

PSW Staff