Games

With its mix of post-apocalyptic adventure and vehicular combat there can be few film franchises that are so obviously videogame-friendly as Mad Max. Which makes it surprising that it's taken so long for gamers to get the chance to jump into Max's boots.

Developed by Avalanche Studios (of Just Cause fame), Mad Max gives players a massive wasteland to traverse as they do battle with psychotic gangs under the control of local warlord Scabius Scrotus, and collect the materials needed to complete the construction of the legendary vehicle Magnum Opus. All of which boils down to a huge open-world adventure built on a blend of superbly realised motorised mayhem and furious fisticuffs.

Rather less satisfying is the developer's decision to artificially prolong the story mode by locking off missions until you've met specific requirements and added enough upgrades – this forces you to take on every side quest you find no matter how dull and repetitive it may get. However, this element is far from being a disaster; more an annoyance that's quickly forgotten when you get caught up once again in the brilliant story missions. It's also a shame that while the game looks sensational for the most part, there are occasions where the frenetic action causes the visuals to become a bit laggy.

Mad Max, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, Xbox One/PS4/PC, £50 Approx
HCC VERDICT: 3.5/5