"SPARTANS!! Tonight, we dine IN HELL!"

Film fanatics have already seen the trailers for Zack Snyder's forthcoming film 300, based on the Frank Miller comic book. (If not, hit this link to take a look.) The story focuses on King Leonidas and his army of 300 Spartan soldiers as they face off against numerous enemies in a fictional retelling of the Battle of Thermopylae. These enemies not only show vast differences in size and attack methods, but also in count, multiplied beyond 300. The movie appears to be shaping up as one of the year's best, and Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment decided to create a game following in its blood-drenched footsteps.

300: March to Glory focuses on the plight of Leonidas and his Spartans as they battle the vicious Xerxes and his dedicated Persian army. Both parties see great worth in Thermopylae and prepare to fight to the death to rule it. Xerxes' army includes soldiers that pack tons of nasty weapons, as well as some tougher boss enemies and animals that don't go down after a mere sword swipe. However, what Leonidas' army lacks in numbers, they more than make up for in enduring strength and cunning.

At first glance, 300: March to Glory might be confused for a Dynasty Warriors clone. One solo player faces off against groups of enemy soldiers, while also dealing with larger foes. However, to stand out from Koei's long-running series, developer Collision Studios gave the mindless beat-em-up formula some kick. For example, instead of swinging around the same weapons, players mix and match light and heavy attacks to pull off devastating melee combos. Furthermore, enemies meet their demise in a number of ways, including a nasty impaling or intense decapitations. No matter what players choose, lots of blood spills on Thermopylae's battlegrounds.

The three weapons featured in 300 seem routine, but still prove effective. Leonidas' primary weapon, the single sword, comes balanced in both speed and effectiveness. Using this weapon, the player holds a shield and fends off defensive attacks as well. The spear gives a longer reach and impales enemies, but break easily. Fortunately, there appear to be a number of them scattered within the level, so another one can be found. Finally, the twin swords leave a player unable to defend against certain incoming attacks. However, using them for quick, speedy kills destroys waves of opponents, if the player can leave their health bar intact.