Where did all those creatures come from? Find out in the all-new prequel on GameCube.

How can something so nightmarish be so gorgeously compelling? It's in the details. As Capcom's Resident Evil franchise ages, critics increasingly moan about such factors as the pre-rendered backgrounds and awkward camera angles. But, as proven with this prequel (the first all-new RE game in four years), it's a case of “if it ain't broke don't fix it”. Zero's gothic environments are so exquisitely detailed and atmospheric (especially in terms of lighting) that the grievances can be overlooked, again. That said, though, the puzzle-solving is silly.

Zero fills in the backstory to Resident Evil, the hit game that appeared on PS1 seven years ago and was last year revamped for the GameCube. In a new feature, you play as both rookie cop Rebecca Chambers (from the original game) and new character Billy Coen, a convict ex-SEAL. Thankfully, controlling the two is uncomplicated – but it does make the narrative even more convoluted. Otherwise, Zero is essentially more of the same, with plentiful creepiness.

Although Capcom's other horror-based franchises (Onimusha, Dino Crisis, Devil May Cry) and some of the competition (Silent Hill) are excellent, it's always a macabre joy to return to Resident Evil, the godfather of grotesquely good video gaming. Daniel Etherington 14 March 03

Resident Evil Zero by Capcom, available now on GameCube.