X-Men Legends 2

Beginning with a tense alliance between the X-Men and the Brotherhood of Mutants, X-Men II: Rise of Apocalypse sends players against the invading armies of Apocalypse and his Four Horsemen in an effort to save the world. Alright, so fans of the series will balk a little at the storyline, but they certainly won't turn down a chance to play as their favorite homo superior in Marvel's latest addition to a widely respected line of comic-based video games.

Graphically, RoA follows the style of its predecessor with cell-shaded characters-recreating a comic book feel. Despite beautifully worked cut-scenes, however, the graphics are less than awe-inspiring. Thick black lines surround each character and a relatively low resolution takes away from detail and makes the simulated world seem glossed over. Nevertheless, unlockable skins for each character and crisp, good-looking powers help make the visuals, if not eye-candy, at least functional.

The game play is the important part anyway, and RoA places itself firmly in the controversial action-RPG genre. More action-oriented gamers might find the expansive skill system and four-person team cumbersome, while RPGer's will appreciate the level of character control but find the storyline less than absorbing. For better or worse, RoA doesn't quite escape comparison to Diablo II, and along with a slew of peers (Dungeon Siege II, Champions of Norath) doesn't quite measure up in its single-player campaign.

Fortunately, RoA is an entirely different experience when played with a few friends. The sheer number of team combinations (you start with 10 X-Men and 5 Brotherhood plus three unlockables) makes a second play-through almost mandatory. With one person keeping Cyclops' visor sizzling, another on goddess-duty with Storm, a third hopping Nightcrawler from a to b with devastating effect, and a smug finisher smashing barrels and enemies alike as the one and only Magneto, you'll kill an hour trash-talking without breaking a sweat. The real gem behind the multi-player mode is the teamwork combo chaining. If Magneto lifts an enemy into the air right as Nightcrawler teleport-strikes, a booming voice declares "COMBO!" and the unique combo message identifies the move "Levitation Sword." In addition to obvious bragging rights, these combos grant additional experience, damage and fun factor.

Before you go out and buy it, consider how you'll play it. If you and a few friends need a break from your circuits homework, grab RoA, pick your old-time favorites and get ready for a thoroughly satisfying smash fest. But if you're in the market for a solid single-player action/RPG, reinstall Diablo II and remember to shower.