Reviewed On: The Walking Dead

Available For: PC, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360

Publisher: Telltale Games

Developer: Telltale Games

Genre: Horror

Age: 18 (PEGI)

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There's little that can overpower the rancid stench of approximately 311 million rotting corpses. One thing that can however is the stink of most licensed games. But now with The Walking Dead series receiving the video game makeover, fans are hoping to smash that tradition - and probably a few walker skulls in the progress.

Set during the zombie outbreak, whilst comic book hero Rick Grimes is still in a coma, The Walking Dead video game follows the story of Lee Everett and a young girl named Clementine. And although they stumble upon each other in a chance meeting, the duo stick together like family.

Despite being in colour, the cel-shaded graphics make it look just like the comic. Things do however have a lifelike appearance that really helps with the characterisation - something that plays a huge part in The Walking Dead.

Gameplay differs to the action-fest of most zombie games, with the emphasis laying heavily on split-discussion making. Choices can sometimes cost the life of a fellow survivor, whilst at other times subtle conversational selections may affect relationships. The judgements are hard because of loyalties built and the pressure to make your mind up quickly. It’s a much more emotional way to tell a story than through the use of action.

Despite my love for the series, and the fact Telltale Games have stayed true and respectful to the comics, I do have one problem. A fellow survivor sends you to find batteries for a radio - she apparently wouldn't know what she's looking for. It's absolutely absurd.

But even this stinker of a plot thread can't penetrate the sensational aroma of this well made game. This is the first episode in a series of five being released each month, and at £15.99 for the lot, it's well worth the money.

The atmosphere, aesthetics, characterisation and uniquely story-rich gameplay are all outstanding.

SCORE: 9 / 10

PROS: Excellent voice acting and script writing which deliver sublime levels of characterisation and emotions. The graphics are perfectly suited too.

CONS: The mission ideas got a little stale. Would an educated lady really not know what batteries look like?