Traditionally computer games and movie tie-ins have mixed like oil and water.

Most software developers pay big bucks for the rights of the latest Hollywood blockbuster and too often pay little attention to getting the game right -

witness the Playstation version of James Bond: The World is Not Enough or the less than cosmic Star Wars Episode One tie-in.

Here Activision has at least put some thought into the Playstation beat-em-up X-Men Mutant Academy.

Players pick a character from the film and can then battle it out against a computer opponent or a friend.

There are some intricate moves which need to be practised and some nice touches, such as healing wounds and special moves for each character. Wolverine's extending hand-bales are particularly good fun.

The graphics are bright and well-defined and there are no problems with the sound.

But as far as tie-ins go, this is not one of the rare breed of games, for example the Die Hard Trilogy, which get it just right.

The problem for Activision is the beat-em-up genre is flooded with titles and, aside from the tie-in, this one does not stand out. If you want a fighting game, there are far better titles.

Price: £24.99
Contact 01895 456700
Feelgood factor: 6 out of 10