Although World War II games are quite common, mainly as First-person shooters, Velvet Assassin takes the genre into another perspective. For once we get a third-person action-adventure game with looks that kill. Based upon a real person during the war, you'll play as Violet Summer, a British Protagonist who stood up against the German war machine.

Velvet Assassin is mostly a stealth game so don't expect much running and gunning here. Violet's main weapon is her knife which she can use to shank German troops in the darkness. You'll also be able to use various World War II era weapons, but it's also important not to tip off the guards. After you've killed various troops you can drag their bodies into the dark areas so that other guards won't see them. If the guards notice you then the alarm sounds and numerous guards come in to hunt you down. At that time you'll need to make your way into the darkness and out of sight for the situation to "calm down." So far this sounds alot like Metal Gear Solid except it takes place in World War II.

You'll travel to many locations in Eastern Europe during key events in the war without being on the frontlines of battle. Most of these missions take place during the darkness of night so that it "sets the mood" for Violet to carry out her brand of justice. In the outdoor areas, you'll come across street lights and areas of patchy fog which can make players feel like their in a survival-horror game. Indoor locations will also be somewhat dark with just a hint of lighting.

As for Violet, she may not me Solid Snake, but she can kick some ass. It is said that there are 50 different stealth kills the Violet possesses. Violet can use her knife and shank Germans in the back, skull, legs, and I'm pretty sure in some "private" areas as well. She can also carry weapons, but you'll be limited in ammo so you can't rely on them primarily. Finally, Violet can also change into various costumes in order to "fit in" and not get noticed by the guards.

Velvet Assassin could be considered an alternative to Xbox players not able to play Metal Gear Solid. Although the World War II genre has been played to death, Velvet Assassin takes the genre to a whole new level as well as a new perspective. Furthermore, this game can shed some new light on the action/stealth genre breaking up the monotany created by all the Splinter Cell and Metal Gear games.

Velvet Assassin sneaks its way onto the Xbox 360 on January 13, 2009