Originally released on PS2 back in 2006 under the name Canis Canem Edit here in Europe, Bully was at the centre of a mini controversy storm when it launched, with public outcry at a game that apparently encouraged classroom abuse.

As many critics pointed out at the time, the reality of the game is much more than just a bullying simulation – in fact it turned out to be one of the most satisfying story-driven adventures of the year, which makes this next generation re-release even more welcome.

Bully follows the arrival of problem child Jimmy Hopkins at Bullworth Academy, while his absent mother disappears off on an extended honeymoon. The action takes place over the course of the academic year as Jimmy gets to grips with the rigours of boarding school life. Gameplay-wise, Bully offers a slick mixture of classroom mini games and exploration together with a well-balanced combat system and satisfying vehicle sections, providing a nice combination of quality and variety. The visuals are pleasing and the cinematic music offers a wry take on the theme from Harry Potter.

The added extras for this re-release include bonus missions, more lessons to pass or fail and additions to Bully’s already memorable cast of characters. Overall the new features are worthwhile additions to an already compelling game, although gamers who completed the PS2 and are expecting Scholarship Edition to play like a sequel rather than a re-release will be disappointed.