GOING out on a limb here, I am going to predict that anyone who considers themselves a gamer will want to take a crack at this game.

This isn't because Final Fantasy VII is the prequel to one of the most highly rated role-playing games (RPG) around, or that as simple as it is to play this game, it is also complex enough to cater to all types of players. It is simply because Crisis Core is one of the most engaging and visually pleasing games on PSP.

Blending RPG elements with real time action, Crisis Core is not your typical save-the-world RPG. Instead, you guide Zack, a soldier in Shinra, as he learns more about the company he serves, and his relationship with his mentor, Angeal. The storyline is dramatic, testing Zack's loyalties and honour as you progress, but unlike other group based RPGs, this is strictly a one man show.

During your travels, you battle monsters and robots in semi real- time. You can equip yourself with the necessary skills but are allowed limited pieces of equipment, so you'll have to measure the effectiveness of each skill before a battle to see how much it helps. The lapses in between battles allows you to pick up skills and position yourself, to unleash critical hits and avoid damage.

The game also provides a great reason to stop players from grinding unnecessarily. The act of levelling up skills and personal attributes is made a random process. Using Digital

Mind Wave or DMW, the game uses this slot-machine-like system to generate random results that see Zack perform super attacks, summons and level ups. Skills are retained only in the long run when the portraits or numbers in the DMW match. Due to the random effects, you may find yourself fighting incessantly without levelling up, or levelling up within short intervals.

Instead of walking blindly into encounters, Zack also has the option of taking on small missions for Shinra.

Each standalone mission has a specific goal which, when completed, earns Zack rewards and skills. The missions are not compulsory, but given the random nature of the DMW, it makes sense to rack up on rewards and skills. These short missions are also a great way to pass time on the PSP, since a mission can easily be completed in less than five minutes.

And this is the reason why the game should appeal to non-RPG fans. The elements of RPG are broken down, removing the traditionally steep learning curve gamers usually face with these types of games. Amazing 3D cut scenes pepper the game. The high quality scenes and voice acting are very movie-like and enhance the atmosphere of the game.

The game does not get a perfect score for one reason - it might be a tad too easy for hard-core RPG fans.

Once you get the hang of it, the crisis is nothing more than an extended adventure.