The Hobbit (PS2)

I found The Hobbit totally addictive, and I am not a fan of 'shoot-em-up' games so the battles, although basic to some gamers were great for kids (and me) because enemies just disappear in a shower of jewels. The aim is to collect as many of these jewels ('courage points') because a full complement will award you with additional health. Basically the story is about Bilbo Baggins being recruited by the dwarves to help him recover their treasure and it eventually becomes a battle between the forces of good and evil. We start off in 'Hobbiton' collecting various artefacts, where no battles take place and you could be forgiven for thinking this is just a little kid's game. However, as you progress through the levels, acquiring a sword and the mighty ring (which gives you the power of invisibility) things get more difficult. There are enemies to face and puzzles to solve-one thing that frustrated me though was that the most difficult level ('flies and spiders') appears about halfway through the game. The final levels were a bit of a letdown after that, and the last level of all is, quite frankly, boring. However, it is very addictive,and you can go for maximum points, or just complete the levels as you like. However, it is much more fun hunting out extra courage points and treasure chests, which can be found tucked away in unlikely places. Definitely NOT for those of you who love the likes of Grand Theft Auto, but one you can safely leave your kids with (that's if you don't get hooked yourself!).