Everyone deserves a second chance -- even creatures that dwell in a sewer and eat pizza on a regular basis. Ubisoft Montreal's take on The TMNT, due to arrive next month for Xbox 360 (and seven other platforms), dramatically changes their modus operandi. The game still involves kicking lots of butt, so no worries there. However, instead of just being another brawling game with little depth, the game takes a much more adventurous turn.

TMNT's storyline closely resembles Warner Bros.' upcoming CG-animated film, set to arrive in theaters March 30. Following a successful defense of New York City from the Shredder and his Foot Clan, the brothers find themselves in utter turmoil. A rich industrialist summons a group of ancient creatures to dominate the city. Raphael, Donatello and Michelangelo lose all confidence in using their abilities. This leaves Leonardo, the leader of the Turtles, in a very tight spot. Not only does he have to contend with the creatures, but he must also reunite his brothers before New York City falls into chaos. The situation gets even worse when members of the Foot Clan re-emerge, leaving the notion that the evil Shredder may not be far behind.

Instead of just sticking the foursome in simplistic fighting scenarios, Ubisoft expanded their territory tremendously. The city literally becomes their playground, as gamers climb up buildings and explore wherever they wish. Other levels in the game take place in majestic temples, jungles and even the sewers. Players can also visit the Turtles' lair, to practice their skills or just chill out with a hot slice of pizza. The levels satisfy thus far, complete with weather effects and a steady frame rate (around 30 frames per second). The animation shows great promise as well, right on par with the movie's CG models. The weapon effects also deserve a mention, leaving a light glow as they get swung about.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles borrows many elements from Ubisoft's Prince of Persia games. The foursome get around by running along walls, swinging on poles, leaping from rooftop to rooftop and performing other athletic moves. This system, known as Acrobatic Navigation, offers superb maneuverability over each of the Turtles, instead of limiting them only to ground movement. The combat engine resembles Persia closely as well. Each Turtle must fight off a number of surrounding enemies by using multi-directional moves. All four possess their own distinct special abilities, such as Raphael's Sai throw and Michelangelo's humiliating nunchuk face-slap. The enemies vary, ranging from sword-wielding Foot Clan members to ancient monsters -- usually appearing during boss fights.