The Darkness

Developer: StarBreeze
Format: Xbox 360, PS3
Genre: action

A comic-based supernatural crime drama - not a Spinal Tap rock parody

No, it's not a showbiz game simulating the rise and fall of the one hit wonders that were The Darkness led by Eurovision failure Justin Hawkins. Instead The Darkness (forthcoming on both the Xbox 360 and PS3) is a nifty little psychological action thriller that promises to entertain and unnerve in equal measure.

Based on The Darkness comic book the game promises a blend of paranormal gangster action as players slip into the Italian loafers of one Jackie Estacado a mafia hitman who inherits demonic powers on his 21st birthday. With his new powers, Jackie is able to wreak terrifying havoc on his enemies and decides to wrestle back control of the crime family from his evil uncle Paulie. This sounds a little like a supernatural Sopranos if you ask us.

Most of the action takes place in first person so you can get a detailed view as you devour, impale or even implode your enemies in a whole host of imaginative ways. Fight your way through the dark and seedy underbelly of New York City as well as the ethereal realm of the Darkness itself. Cannibalise the corpses of your slain victims and transform them into Darklings - impish and hilarious demonites that commit unspeakable acts. You can even play as Darklings in online multiplayer games and face other players, which sounds like loads of fun.

If you remember the movie (and subsequent game) Constantine starring Keanu Reeves then this should stand you in good stead for what The Darkness has in store .Just expect it to be considerably better and dripping in next-gen polish. A release is scheduled for the end of June.

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