MetalWars

If the sci-fi writers of today are to be believed then battlefields of the future are likely to be populated not by feeble and fragile human foot-soldiers but by hulking, bipedal killing machines.

MetalWars has a similar outlook, set amid the chaos of a global conflict that has ravaged the planet, having you pilot a walking tank capable of demolishing an entire building as if it were made of paper.

The actual storyline is fairly thin on the ground - there's literally no narrative whatsoever - though it's fair to assume that two factions are at war and it's your job to ensure that your guys bring home the glory.

On the surface MetalWars appears to be nothing more than another twin-stick blaster, similar to the likes of Alive4Ever and iDracula: however, the key differences here are tactics and customisation.

You're usually battling against small groups of units and if you wade into combat without first planning your attack, your mech will be reduced to a pile of smouldering rubble in a matter of seconds.

Accompanied by your AI controlled wingman, you have to adopt a methodical approach: picking off your enemies individually is a far safer stratagem than simply dashing in all guns blazing.

Furthermore you can influence the behaviour of your ally by issuing basic orders. You can tell them to follow your movements, attack the enemy directly or hold their ground.

MetalWars really comes alive when you add in the ability to configure your battle machines. Before each encounter you can purchase new components such as cockpits, legs, weaponry and even a fresh paint job, as well as upgrade the fighting ability of your units.

You can even hire new wingmen to ensure you have the very best fighters on your team - although, predictably, securing the best talent requires plenty of cash. Money is handed out at the end of each mission, the amount being based on your overall performance. You can also raise funds by selling off old parts that are no longer required.

The structure of the game is incredibly compelling, and there's a real sense of progression as you slowly but surely bulk up your mech's killing power.

Sadly there are a few problems with which to contend. The aforementioned lack of plot makes the whole thing seem a little empty, with no solid aim being placed in front of the player other than the total annihilation of the enemy.

Repetition also rears its ugly head. Aside from the escalating challenge and additional of new ordinance, there's little variation. The inclusion of either local or online multiplayer would have helped, but this is a resolutely solo affair.

Despite these criticisms, MetalWars remains a solid proposition and boasts refreshing depth. The emphasis here is just as much on tactical thinking as it is on sheer firepower. If the experience had been fleshed out a little more said title would be as imposing as the massive robots it contains.