Pop Idol (PS2)

Used PlayStation 2 game. Age rating: exempt

Based on the television phenomenon of the same name, Pop Idol marries many of the key features of the show. And while there are times when you can´t help feeling that this isn´t the most substantial game you´ve ever played, there is some fun to be had.

The idea is simple. You create a singer and take them through the heats and qualifying rounds to the final. If all goes to plan, you get crowned the Pop Idol. If it doesn´t, you get to suffer the acid tongues of the three judges, including the infamous Simon Cowell.

Clearly, a video game is going to have troubling assessing your vocal talents and that is a downfall. Instead, Pop Idol substitutes a simple rhythm-style game, not a million miles from classics such as Parappa the Rappa. Basically, symbols correlating to your control pad head towards the middle of the screen and you need to have the relevant button pressed at exactly the right moment. The more you get it right, the better you do. You´re also assessed on your outfit, which you choose along with your song before every round.

It´s ultimately quite a simple, straightforward title and one that could have been better, could have been worse. It´s going to find favour more easily with the casual, less demanding gamer, though, and dedicated fans of the show. --Simon Brew