What's the Story?

South Park has experienced a lot of weirdness over the years, so a town-wide war between the familiar foul-mouthed children – plus you, as the new kid – barely registers as particularly unusual. But Developer Obsidian's RPG spins out into alien cover-ups, government conspiracies, Nazi zombies, and subterranean adventures with gnomes and crab people.

Gameplay

South Park's answer to Final Fantasy, Stick of Truth offers equal parts exploration and turn-based combat. Battles initially seem simplistic, with only your customised character and one of six buddies from the show's cast to fight with, but soon reveal a surprising complexity thanks to combat modifiers and plentiful skills. Humorous side quests make for a more varied experience, too.

Highs and Lows

While the game's script and visuals are pitch perfect – no surprise, given the involvement of series creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone – it feels limp. The TV show is strongest when it satirises contemporary culture, and this lacks that edge.

Verdict

That the console versions have been toned down for Europe (the PC release is uncut) seems particularly odd. Even at its sharply written best, South Park thrives on obscenity – mature content is unlikely to shock the fanbase. Censorship aside, The Stick of Truth is a solid RPG that lovingly adapts its source material, but misses some opportunities along the way.