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Your little sister is lying ill in bed, your mother is worried sick about her and what do you do? You go off fishing! Doesn't sound like the kind of thing a caring brother should do, but the hero in Legend Of The River King does just that, he has his reasons though... there's one particular fish called the Guardian that could save your sister's life - although I don't think the fish is going to survive long!

Japanese company Natsume have created a really unique game with Legend Of The River King. It combines RPG elements with fishing! Yes, you read that right - fishing!! The fishing is no throwaway affair though, it's vital to the plot and very tricky to play. You really have to have the mind-set of a fisherman, using the correct bait for the fish you want to catch, picking your lures and rods carefully, and making sure you're in the right section of river.

When you get a bite, you must be very careful not to reel the fish in too soon or the line will snap. You've got to play the waiting game and wait until the fish is tired before landing your catch.

As you wander around the game, you will meet characters who will give you tasks to complete. These include catching specific types of fish, fetching dinner for them or talking to another character on their behalf. This element of the game keeps things fresh, but sadly the fishing needs to be much more fun to hold your attention. After failing to catch a fish, or having it break away from you for the umpteenth time, the game starts to get a little bit boring.

Legend Of The River King should be commended for trying something different but you really do need the patience of a saint to play through to the end of the adventure. There are a lot of lakes and rivers to discover, and new fish to catch so real fishermen (or women) will find it fun, but it's definitely an acquired taste - a bit like fish, really!

I spent a great day out on the beach recently. I had my towel, my cool drinks, and my copy of Legend Of The River King!

This is a really engrossing game of fishing and adventure. It kind of follows a similar style to Zelda, but adding in elements of Final Fantasy (monsters attack you now and then) and of course some interesting fishing.

It's the monsters bit that lets the game down really - you're attacked by a spider and it can finish your game! A different cart that should appeal to men in big waders.

Graphics 80%
Small but neat.

Sound 40%
Annoying tunes and the odd splash.

Playability 60%
When the fish don't bite, it's boring.

Lastability 80%
Plenty to get stuck into.

Overall 79%
It's no king-sized cod, but it's fun!