SLY RACCOON
Sly Cooper is the descendent of a long line of raccoon thieves. But, it must be noted, they only use their skills to steal from criminals (the game developers being a little more responsible than some crime title developers glorifying it). While still a kid, the Fiendish Five burst into the Coopers' home, killing his father and stealing the book containing all their thieving secrets, the Thievious Raccoonus. They split it in five parts, separating it, using its content for their own evil means. Sly ended up in an orphanage but grew up bent on revenge and to get back his family heritage. Helping you through each vibrant mission are Bentley (the brain at the hideout HQ) and Murray the getaway driver. You're in constant contact with Bentley who helps you along the way. With sneaking, binoculars and a handy hook (for swinging and whacking) you'll make your way past many baddies and some tricky terrain. Coins, clues and secrets are collected along the way (smash objects with your hook to reveal even more). The game looks like a 3D cartoon with 2D cut scenes. Blue auras indicate thieving opportunities (pressing the red circle button allows you to follow these glowing light sources along ledges and other hard to maneuver areas. Each mission pits you against one of the Fiendish Five in individually entitled chapters like Tide Of Terror, each in a different location with new obstacles and challenges. From the city to the jungle, Sly Raccoon is great fun and is not merely dependent on your cunning abilities or safe cracking skill, but your sense of adventure.

4 / B
- PB