The Simpsons: Hit and Run (XB)

Ever fancied a trip to Springfield to check out all the well-know haunts for yourself... Well this latest Simpsons title promises to give you the opportunity by delivering a faithfully recreated digital version of the popular Matt Groening world, which plays host to a new mission-based, driving adventure. The Simpsons: Hit and Run has at its core a rather dark story, which tells of strange goings on in the cartoon town. People are missing, mysterious crop circles are beginning to appear, and hidden cameras are being exposed. When Homer notices a suspicious black van outside the Simpson home, he decides to investigate further, and soon begins to unravel a very sinister mystery indeed. The game itself sees players take their pick from playable characters Homer, Bart, Apu, Marge, and Lisa, before embarking on the adventure, fulfilling a variety of missions, while investigating the faithfully recreated environments. The whole town is fully explorable and, as such, players can now peruse the interiors of an array of well-known locations, such as the Kwik-e-Mart, the Power Plant, and even the Simpson home. There are over 56 missions on offer, both driving-based and on foot, spread across seven expansive levels. Throughout, it's possible to drive as 17 different characters, including such stars as Cletus, Comic Book Guy and Principal Skinner, complete with his nagging Mother as a backseat driver. In total, more than 40 vehicles can be unlocked. Staying faithful to its cartoon origins, Hit and Run features a story and dialogue straight from the series' original writers, as well as voice acting by the real cast of the show. Also, there's a host of animated gags and hidden jokes to be uncovered, as well as special pick-ups that contain episode specific bonus material from the last 14 seasons. Once the lengthy single-player experience has been exhausted, a multiplayer mode is on hand to keep you entertained, allowing up to four players to partake in unlockable driving challenges.