Yu-Gi-Oh! GX Tag Force review

Everybody's talking ‘bout the new kid in town - which, in the case of Konami's latest Yu-Gi-Oh! outing, is you. Dropped smack dab into the middle of the Duel Academy amidst of all the GX characters you love and hate - or maybe don't know jack about - you'll slowly but surely work your way up from the depths to the pinnacle of the dueling world. But be prepared to spend some quality time with your PSP, since making friends and influencing others isn't easy - or quick.

Tag Force is a decidedly lengthy and deep card battle tour de force. It simultaneously invites hardcore fans and series newcomers to the table, featuring an in-depth, step-by-step study in every aspect of card duels, set within the confines of your studies at the Academy. While longtime fans may find the pace a bit slow to start off, there are dozens of dueling options during the day when you're not stuck listening to the teachers' occasionally obnoxious lessons.

The story mode is broken up into three sections. Part 1 is a three-month exercise in going to school, finding a partner for the upcoming tournament, and working to establish a solid deck; Part 2 is the Tag Force Tournament itself; Part 3 follows the Shadow Riders storyline arc of the first season of the TV series. As you might expect, there are a seemingly limitless amount of duels in which to engage during your quest - so settle in and plan accordingly.