Platforming plays a big role in the game as well, taking on more vertical elements in Prince of Persia than previous titles in the series. Joining the prince's sword is a metal gauntlet equipped to his other hand. When navigating the platforms and ledges of the garden, he can dig the gauntlet into walls to slow his descent from vertical heights.

This opens up a wide range of possibilities for tackling seemingly impossible jumps. Also helping you along the way is a woman named Elika. This computer-controlled sidekick essentially aids you along your quest, providing support during major battles and lending a hand in tricky platform challenges. In fact, she supports the Prince with an array of magical abilities. Special cooperative jumps, magical attacks, and activation of special magical plates littering each area of the garden can only be done with Elika's aid.

While the concept of having a computer-controlled character following us through the game has us worried, much of what we've seen has us convinced that everything else is in place for a phenomenal experience. The new combat mechanics lend to more intense battles and the vertical component to platforming adds a nice layer of depth. Of course, you can't forget the amazing new graphics that more than justify anticipation for Prince of Persia's winter release.

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