As it turns out, EyePet is a pet simulator for the younger gamer and not a game based on the dialect of Cheryl Cole.

Originally released on the PSP's bigger and tougher brother, the Playstation 3, the appeal of the original game was etched with the fact that you could see yourself on screen with your virtual pet.

With it's handheld counterpart, the effect is unfortunately lost due to the nature of the PSP. Instead of seeing yourself on screen, you see what is behind your PSP.

This doesn't make EyePet any less enjoyable for the younger gamer though.

After a quick intro, you have to encourage your EyePet to hatch from it's egg by heating it up and then cooling it back down again.

The mechanics are unlike any other game on the PSP and naturally, it has a heavy emphasis on the use of the PSP camera add on, aka the PSP EyeToy.

Bundled within the game is a card that you have to place on a surface and use as a marker. You then have to point the camera at the marker and it promptly displays the EyePet on the screen, in the markers location. The technology works seamlessly.

Once your EyePet hatches, you have to name the little critter and record a call out sound for him. I opted for “Oi!”. You're then encouraged to customise the EyePet, with a choice of colour and hair length.

The game has a number of different tasks that you can take part in.

Eager to test out the racing section, this was the first option I went for. Sadly, the controls are not great here and the fact that I could barely finish 2 laps, let alone the required 4, left me feeling slightly let down. The controls were so cack-handed, it made me wonder how a younger player would cope with it, let alone a seasoned 30 year old gamer like myself.

Progressing through the game, you will be rewarded with plenty of unlockable items – including clothing and toys for him to play with.

Other features in the game include an aquarium for your EyePet to go fishing and a bed should the little critter become too tired and need a rest.

Through the use of the EyeToy, you can also take photographs of your EyePet.

Ultimately, whilst the PSP version of EyePet is not up there with it's PS3 counterpart, the handheld version is a fun little title for the younger gamer and will keep them quiet for hours if you are out and about.

Verdict: 7 out of 10

The Good
Good use of EyeToy technology
Plenty for EyePet to do
Plenty to unlock

The Bad:
Driving section is a dud