JUST as your children were growing tired of their Incredibles action figures along comes Robots to save the day. Twentieth Century Fox's new animated movie release is sure to carry on the successes of its many recent predecessors.

Along with the movie comes the almost obligatory console game tie-in but does Robots the game match the quality of its movie-mother?

First impressions are yes, it does. As soon as your console boots up the disc you'll be mesmerised by the impressive visuals that mimic the film. An introductory FMV blends seamlessly into the game itself. And with a smile on your face you'll notice you are actually controlling the film's hero, Rodney Copperbottom, in a living movie.

The free-roaming environments are quite beautiful and, like the film, are truly original. You can stop and speak to the robotic passers by and grin as you watch amazing mechanical vehicles clatter by you in the street.

But strip away the endearing visuals and what are you left with underneath? Well, in essence it's a standard 3D platformer. You are given tasks and wander through the levels collecting pieces of scrap metal as you go. This scrap can then be used to buy upgrades or as ammunition for your weapons. You'll need to find blueprints and other mech-related parts to complete your challenges and as you do the Robots story unfolds.

There is a good variation in gameplay. In some sections you find yourself fighting evil bots and in others you'll be pod racing on the crazy metropolis' roads. There's even a nice puzzle element that adds an additional challenge to the game.

Robots has all the ingredients to be a great release. But, as home economics classes up and down the country demonstrate, having great ingredients doesn't always guarantee good results.

Sadly, this game lets itself down in two typical areas, collision detection and camera angle. You can ignore it for the first few hours but ultimately, the constant hits by unseen enemies make for a frustrating progression through an otherwise enjoyable game.

Robots is clearly aimed at the younger audience which is hinted at by its 7+ pre-release rating. And for that reason it is guaranteed some level of success.

It's a shame about the flaws but the stunning visuals and cute characters make Robots a game worth the purchase. Despite the occasional desire to smash your joypad there's enough fun here to keep you playing on to the next level. And hey, if you do get frustrated, you can always give it to your kids for Easter!

6/10

Published by Vivendi Universal Games. Anticipated for ages 7+.

Review by Paul Currie