Format: Playstation 3
Reviewer: Alex

Arguably the best game on the PS3 and yet sometimes achingly derivative and petty, Drake’s Fortune is a curious blend of tired, old favourites and expert polish. Pilfering liberally from the successful exploration elements of the Tomb Raider series and the cover action system from Gears of War it’s very hard for a player on the initial run to find the identity beneath the surface. It’s there, however in the form of brimming personality and charm.

The story is pure Saturday morning matinee fodder, an up-to-date Indiana Jones the world of cinema sorely needs and within moments of the epic score rousing you up with lush visuals and all the other cliche’s that make you feel like you’re playing a big game, you fall right into Naughty Dog’s trap. Then after witty, exceptionally well-delivered dialogue you’re basically ferried about between room after room of crafty, spiteful enemies who flank you all over the shop and pick away at your patience. These shootouts are interspersed with some very competent platforming, which unlike Tomb Raider requires usually just the right direction push and occasionally some timing. Punishment is never more than a few repeated moments of game, but you WILL die over and over.

It’s a fairly old game by now, but the addition of trophies and an incoming sequel, coupled with a budget price make this one almost unmissable for fans of action games. The core gameplay is nothing you’ve not seen before, but the central trio of Nathan, Elena and Sully in particular are strong, likable characters and that alone is worth playing for.

Rating 8/10