Every teenager thinks they're destined for greatness, but few could compete with Ranko Tsukigime, high school girl by day and assassin by night. Intercutting the action with long (generally entertaining) animated scenes, Short Peace: Ranko Tsukigime's Longest Day has more to offer than a pointlessly long title. For a start, it boasts anime from producer Katushrio Otomo (Akira) in between bouts of 2D gaming. The game plays like Sonic meets Strider; in other words, near-perpetual motion 2D running and platforming; with zippy combat. Defeat the oncoming enemies, but don't stop moving or you'll be enveloped by mysterious, malevolent killers. It's barmy, lively, colourful, dizzyingly fast and very challenging. SP: RTLD is also eccentric and Japanese - almost to the point of parody. You could play anime bingo with the plaid skirts, bubblegum synth pop music, heightened violence and sparkling colours and slogans that pop onscreen like fireworks. The game-play is a little one-note, but its energy and weirdness are endearing. bandainamcogames.co.uk