If there was any justice in this world, Robin Hood would be the great British icon. It's a pity then that he's usually portrayed as a few gadabout with a fashion beard and jade-coloured hosiery. Sadly, Cinemaware's Robin won't be redefining a national icon at any time soon, but at least he gets top billing in a largely entertaining lo-cal RTS.

Your grandparents may remember Defender Of The Crown on the Commodore 64. Well, this is by the same developer, and it's broadly the same game, dragged through a 21st Century hedge. In fact, it's quite a lively blend of gameplay styles, swooping from action to turn-based combat and from first-person to 'God' perspective as it goes. You start by gathering followers and gold from your base in Sherwood Forest. Wealth comes from raids demanding skill in real-time sword and archery combat.

The best, however, is yet to come. Seize control of Nottinghamshire and the game opens up into a "RISK-like" battle for the whole country. Before long you're enlisting Marion to spy on other counties, competing in jousting tournaments for revenue and managing your growing army with the help of Little John. It's not the prettiest of games, but the development of resources and characters is well thought out, the mini-games show an imaginative touch and the whole experience is as console-friendly as any PS2 RTS we've seen. Just try not to think about the tights...

Graphics 60%
Bright and bold but not stretching the PS2 any.

Sound 60%
Camp voice acting is a laugh. SFX do the job.

Gameplay 70%
Moves along with energy and variety.

Lifespan 70%
That RTS slow burn will keep you busy.

Overall 60%
Robin Hood's adventures make for an enjoyably energetic addition to the PS2's lightweight RTS portfolio.