[iTrunks]

Logan's Shadow is more or less an expansion rather than a full-blown sequel to last year's Dark Mirror. The gameplay is largely the same, with minor tweaks here and there. However, the production values have really been upped with more detailed and chaotic environments for Gabe to traverse, along with more interactive set pieces as well (get ready for a lot of exploding barrels and flying boxes). The fantastic cover system has returned in full form, now featuring a blind fire technique, which has its uses now that the enemy's accuracy with weapons has drastically improved. The largest new addition is that of underwater segments. It's shocking how well the swimming engine was pulled off. Just like on land, Gabe controls like a dream underwater with a few new toys to use on foes while submerged. Often times the game will have you constantly swapping between underwater and land based objectives during missions, and it flows seamlessly and wonderfully. The minimal changes to the game don't hurt quite as much you think as the engine still feels superbly contemporary and manages to blow nearly every other action shooter out of the water.

Visually, the latest chapter in Syphon Filter really takes advantage of the PSP hardware, offering detailed character models, diverse and gorgeous environments complete with stunning water effects and life like animations. Grandiose explosions and fog effects are abound, and frequent use of excellent lighting effects really creates a rich and believable world. Best of all, even with explosions, gunfire and multiple foes on screen, the game never suffers from slowdown or frame rate issues. Not once. Likewise, the sound delivers in kind with amazing weapon effects, harsh explosions and superb voice acting. Many sequences are also coupled with magnificent tracks by the same award winning composer from Dark Mirror.

Syphon Filter: Logan's Shadow is the greatest game on the PSP to date. The brilliant control scheme and perfect gameplay have yet to be topped. Unfortunately, the initial single player campaign is a bit too short and easy for veterans, but the engaging story and varying mission objectives make a meaty and satisfying adventure to tackle. With tons of unlockable abilities, weapons and mission on top of stellar online multiplayer, Syphon Filter: Logan's Shadow is the action game to get for PSP owners.