fantasy

Tom & Jerry War of the Whiskers is a tournament style punch 'em up allowing up to four players to compete simultaneously without any cumbersome split screen interfaces. Whether you are a fan of the cartoon like my son, or someone who just doesn't get it like his mother, you will find this game an enjoyable distraction.

The combat system is done well. There is more going on here than just punch and kick. Attacks can be blocked but while doing so you are vulnerable to throwing moves which can put you in some sticky situations. Each area has its own set of unique props that can be used to subdue your opponent. For example: in the kitchen area you can throw pies, eggs and chairs at your adversary or throw them onto the stove if you want to turn up the heat a little.

A variety of clever interactive environments and unlockable extras like characters and outfits give the game reasonable replay value. Which is good because my son asks me to play it with him just about every 15 minutes.

The four player support lets Mom get in on the action who without any love for the cartoon seems to enjoy smashing us with huge turkey legs and snow shovels.

This game has nothing in it that you won't find in the cartoon. Characters getting there butts lit on fire or being smashed flat like a dinner plate is about as bad as it gets. If you feel comfortable letting your children watch Tom & Jerry you are not going to have any problems with this game. Although as a tournament style fighting game it does concentrate on this aspect making the violence positively pointless.

Four player support, great sound, a variety of unlockable extras, rewarding combat system and a cool license rate this game an easy 4 stars. Minor control issues, short short single player and pretty poor documentation keep this game from being perfect. Still this is the best game of its type that I have played on the XBOX.