Spyborgs Preview

The game's full of "next-gen" graphical effects

Spyborgs feels like solid, no-nonsense fun, especially in coop (which is drop in and out, by the way). The game doesn't have you waggling left right and centre every five seconds, which is a godsend. When it does it's simple, for the most part responsive and is satisfying. The graphics, however, are what impress the most. Capcom says there's a whole host of supposedly "next-gen" effects at play, including reflection, bloom and distortion. The fire effects look particularly nice, as does the boss battle against a giant robot (more on that later), a scene reminiscent of so many Capcom games.

Indeed Spyborgs is, by Capcom's own admission, an attempt to give Wii owners what they want: a quality game from the famed Japanese company. Everything about its re-unveiling at Captivate 09 seemed focused on getting that message across. This is a game with an art style that's deliberately designed not to alienate any particular demographic, but with a graphical quality that will appeal to those who know that the Wii is well capable of coping with more than it usually has to deal with.

In fact, everything you'd expect from the genre is recreated, including combo unlocking and big boss battles. The one on show demonstrated how Spyborgs will allow you to tackle its end of level bosses in unique ways. The camera shifts to a wide angle and a giant robot appears in the background as the two heroes fight it off on a helipad on top of a roof building. Bouncer's able to punch cars that the robot chucks at him right back at the mechanised monstrosity. You're able to destroy its limbs, too, on your way to reducing the whole thing to rubble. The fight is unmistakeably epic, as far as boss battles in Wii games go, with an impressive level of graphical detail (the fiery city landscape that rages in the background is particularly eye-catching).

There can be no argument: Spyborgs is better now that the team's had a change of heart. Comparisons with Devil May Cry and God of War are ill-advised, but for Wii-owning Capcom fans it's a promising step in the right direction.

Spyborgs is due out for the Wii this year.