Tenchu: Wrath of Heaven

Publisher: (Activision)

Ever wanted to creep up behind someone and with the cold eyes of a killer and gut them mercilessly? Well, here's something that might tickle your dark-hearted fancy.
Remember the original Tenchu game? It introduced us to the concept of killing quietly and efficiently and had more than its fair share of dark ninja styling. Wrath Of Heaven is the third in this series and is certainly the best. You return as one of three characters, Rickimaru, Ayame or Tesshu. All are deadly with their hands (and their various fiendish weapons) and have different devilish killing moves. Each individual's story revolves around a fantasy feudal Japan populated by demons, sorcerers and corruption.
Frankly, it's more than a little Seven Samurai, but even if that's not your bag there's plenty here to like. Take, for example, the weather and lighting effects. As your character leans creepily from behind a wall, waiting for an opportunity to strike, lighting will reflect off their eyes or rain will shimmer off their armour as you feel their heart beat. It helps maintain a charged atmosphere.
Levels are challenging and varied and, depending on which story you choose, you'll have to face evil ninjas and even the pesky undead. Be warned though, this isn't immediate gratification, and the pattern of sneak, hide, strike can be a little wearing. Still, with it's dark imagery and plot, fantastic stealth kills, multiplayer options and over 27 story levels you shouldn't find too much to complain about.