This week: Game Kid gets into role-playing...

With the notable exception of FFVII it must be said that this particular genre could do with a shot of innovation. The thing is, why are we being offered mere bandwagon dross when the technology is surely already out there to produce truly classic role-playing games? And think about it: RPGs don't have to be confined to the realms of swords and sorcery. For instance...

Reservoir Dogs: the game of criminals

Surely the ultimate opportunity for a role-playing game: the planning and execution of the perfect bank robbery? It wouldn't be unlike putting together your own football team, really; although of course with a bank job if things go awry... people are going to get seriously hurt.

Putting your team together would be your first job in your budding enterprise. You would be able to pick from a huge database of low-life scum and high-flying psychopaths; but which one would you pick? Jack 'Nails' Carter, a good man but a bit trigger happy with a sawn-off when things get nervy? What about Jimmy 'Wires' Baxter - useful with a packet of plastic explosives but known to sing like a canary? Think about it, and think hard; you're looking at a 20-year stretch this time.

And what of the plan? Which bank, and how? Or what about a security truck for starters? Who will handle the laundry? How do you get out of the country? Do you get picked up before you can get to that fishing trawler? Or do you grease the right palms and get a lift from the old bill? So many people to see; so many things to go wrong... and when do you stop?

Should be popular with the youngsters.


Disco Fever: The game of pulling

Yes, full-on, role-playing intercourse interaction at a virtual night spot: it can't fail to be a hit. You'd have a vast array of characters, hair cuts and outfits to choose from, and almost as many night clubs. But from then on it's down to you to strut your stuff with liberal use of the shoulder buttons in a bid to impress the talent (and this is a game for both ladies and gents, of course).

But careful! You don't want to wind up the laughing stock of the dance floor and- ooh! Did you just spill that bloke's pint? And did you know this game was a beat 'em up as well? Ouch! That's gotta hurt...

You can't blow it at the last minute in this game. If you've managed to get a chat with your chosen target then you've got to keep hitting those buttons like you're possessed until they agree to go home with you - and they can take their time deciding.

You're not hitting them fast enough! You're loosing it... oops! It's 'egg on your face and Bacardi down your front' time. GAME OVER, buddy.

Should be popular with the editor.