ModNation Racers

7 cert, Unted Front Games, PS3 (also PSP) ****

It's certainly a good week for racers: ModNation Racerscouldn't be more different than Split/Second, but it offers its share of invention and wit. This clever game is a cross between Mario Kartand Little Big Planet– colourful and cutesy characters spin around a track while taunting, attacking and nudging their competitors. The playing style and controls work very nicely, but don't deviate too much from the traditional, nor do the power-ups, boosters and weapons.

It’s all very nifty, with fast and smooth racing, career and quick-game options, and a funny, playful tone. Players can compete online, upload and download racecourses they’ve built from scratch, and even remodel downloaded courses. So it works as either a zippy racer that can be played casually, or an elaborate game construction kit crossed with a social network.