Although it might not be to everyone's taste, there is absolutely no doubting the popularity and success of the Final Fantasy Series. Whether it's a film or game, every series has a title that seems to shine through, a title with just a little more sparkle than the others do. To most Final Fantasy fans, that game would probably be Final Fantasy VII. Now another spin off title has been released which proves that it was never really the Final Fantasy' - it seems that we were lied to. Again.

Scepticism over whether a spin-off game would be any good this time around is perfectly justified. I'm am sure that I was not alone when I felt enraged and sick to the bottom of my stomach after playing the phenomenally bad Final Fantasy VII: The Dirge of Cerbarus on the PlayStation2. That was the perfect way to ruin a great memory of one of the best games of all time.

Let me reassure all Final Fantasy fans (FF VII, in particular) that Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, restores faith in Square Enix's ability to make a fantastic spin-off title. They have, beyond a doubt, given us one of the most magical and exhilarating games that the PSP has on offer.

CC FFVII is a prequel to the original FFVII that takes place 7 years beforehand. Taking control of Zack Fair, players will unearth answers to the chequered background of Final Fantasy VII. Saying that though, the game has a complete storyline of its own which makes it appealing to fans of the series and newcomers alike.

The first thing that players are going to notice will almost certainly be the graphics. Simply put - Wow! The visuals are stunning in a way that I never even knew the PSP was capable of. CC FFVII flirts with the eyes, causing excitement with every cutscene and leaves the player longing for more.

Combat has pulled away from the old turn based system and is leaning more to the Kingdom Hearts style of gameplay. Players have a menu that they can navigate through during combat, which provides them with everything that they need, whether it's to attack, cast magic or defend. There is also a feature called the Digital Mind Wave (DMW) which enables players to perform a variety of special moves.

Materia is back! And like before, materia is what gives characters attacks, magic and abilities. It is a great way to mould your characters into the fighting style that suites your individual playing style but if you can't be bothered to faff around with the materia, you can have the game set up what it thinks would be the best kit.

Just like with all Final Fantasy games, CC: FFVII is epic. If you're after a moments respite from the main storyline, you could engage in one of the many missions available. Who knows, you may even get collect items that will aid you in your main quest. There is just so much to keep the player enthralled.

To own a PSP and to not have this game would be a travesty; it would be like owning a fantastic pair of trainers without any laces

SCORE: 9 / 10

9:05am Friday 18th July 2008

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