PLATFORMS: PC, Wii, PLAYSTATION 3, NINTENDO DS, XBOX 360 (REVIEWED)

I have to admit, when this game landed on my desk, I greeted it with a touch of apprehension and slight scepticism. Was this another publisher trying to mimic the success of the irreplaceable Mario Kart franchise, by putting together a cheap clone for some easy cash?

To be honest, before loading it up for the first time, the only aspect getting me at all excited was the cameo from Banjo-Kazooie. Just call me an old Nintendophile.

But credit where credit is due, Sega All-Stars Racing is actually an enjoyable little game, if your expectations are low. The courses aren't exactly groundbreaking, the cast of characters are nowhere near as iconic as Nintendo's, and the gameplay is basic – but all that aside, it's modelled closely on Mario Kart, which has proven itself time and time again to be a successful blueprint.

The gameplay options are relatively straight forward: single-player grand prix, multi-player races and battles, and options to unlock new racers, vehicles and courses.

As you might expect from a Sega or Sonic game, the colours are bright, the music is Japanese pop and often annoying, and the action is basic. But like I said, it works. While it can't hold a candle to Mario Kart, it's still a feel-good pick-up-and-play title, and will probably hold your attention for an afternoon or two.

MARKS: 7/10