MARK: For an action-RPG, Untold Legends’ story is forgettable, its combat fairly basic hack-n-slash, and its load times completely insane (I clocked one at almost two minutes). In fact, the entire game follows one simple formula it doesn’t even try to disguise (go to X dungeon, kill Y boss, get Z item, return to town for next errand) that’s repeated over and over.

So why couldn’t I put it down? Simple: deep character-building options. Countless grades of equipment can be bought or found; level up and choose which abilities and cool special attacks to buff. Top it off with sharp graphics and smooth multiplayer and you’ve got a package anyone with an inner Dungeons & Dragons dork will enjoy.

JENNIFER: I’m starting to sound like Goldilocks. First, I whined that Champions: Return to Arms (PS2) had bosses that were too hard. Now I’m complaining that its PSP counterpart is too easy; the bosses require almost no change whatsoever in tactics. Sigh...maybe next time they’ll get the difficulty just right.

Untold Legends is a portable Champions and not much more—but, luckily, that’s a fantastic thing: Scrumptious hack-n-slash, satisfying quests, and splendid multiplayer make a fine porridge indeed.

SHANE: Get ready to mindlessly pummel facsimiles from each and every page of the D&D Monster Manual. Derivative and creatively bankrupt as it may be, Legends at least pulls off the standard-issue dungeon hacking with pizzazz—sharp visuals, copious labyrinths to venture through, and a googleplex of equipment to hoard make it the deepest PSP launch title of the bunch. And it’s especially engaging with some pals: Four-player wireless questing gives the soulless adventure some much-needed spice.

THE VERDICTS (OUT OF 10)

MARK 7.5

JENNIFER 8.0

SHANE 6.5

Publisher: Sony Online • Developer: Sony Online • Players: 1 (2-4 via wireless LAN) • ESRB: Teen • www.untoldlegends.com

Copyright © 2005 Ziff Davis Media Inc. All Rights Reserved. Originally appearing in Electronic Gaming Monthly.