Konami of Europe has confirmed all-new, next generation handheld titles for Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

Raphael, Michelangelo, Donatello and Leonardo are set to return with a release finally announced for the cell shaded, radical-looking Turtles game on the GameCube early next year, in a game which sees players choosing which turtle to fight as, each with a unique set of weapons and skill.

The game's emphasis is on combat, as the evil Shredder's Foot Clan attacks from all directions and the player uses the many throws, kicks and punches the game has to offer.

The cell-shaded graphics do look incredible while the turtles run havoc in huge 3D play areas. The camera effortlessly keeps up with the fast paced action.

Huge end level bosses will make for the levels proving difficult towards the end, which is why Konami has added a co-operative mode of play where a mate can assist you in beating the mobs back into the ground from which they came. Oh, and if your mate doesn't want to help, you can either turn on each other, or go head to head in the dual-player mode.

The game also boasts a huge number of collectible items and previously hidden features of the Turtle world. All that is left to be included now is for Splinter to be a playable character. Then, my friends, I'll be more chuffed than I am right now. Turtle POWER!

The game will hit the shelves Q1 2004 in Europe.

- by Joby Stephens