Welcome to the family. From Tony and Silvio to Christopher and Vito, the gang's all here in the first officially sanctioned interactive spin-off of HBO's TV series. With voiceovers by show regulars like Robert Iler (A.J.) and Tony Sirico (Paulie) and authentic right down to Alabama 3's bluesy theme Woke Up This Morning, the game is a loving tribute to the nearly departed show. Fans will find it a coveted companion piece.

You're Joey LaRocca, low-level Soprano associate and bastard son of slain wiseguy Salvatore "Big Pussy" Bonpensiero (played by actor Vincent Pastore), who appears to offer occasional advice during cut-scenes. Mistrusted by your allies, hated by your enemies and looked at sideways by all, the shit really hits the fan when a Philadelphia mob boss's nephew gets whacked and your outfit is labeled guilty. Proceeding from one story-driven combat sequence to the next, players must clean up the mess by cracking heads and launching into tough-talking or slick verbal exchanges. Through a series of unnerving objectives (ditching dead bodies, schmoozing corrupt attorneys, saving strippers' honor) you either engage in conversation or combat, as the scenario demands.

Where Road to Respect truly stands out is in the area of graphic content. Whether enjoying steamy lap dances at the Bada Bing or using context-sensitive moves to smash foes' heads in drawers (or literally bust their balls), virtually anything goes. With all the crude language, aggravated assault and topless nudity, it's almost as rewarding to sit back and enjoy the scenery as it is playing blood-stained errand boy. Just remember: keeping a low profile is crucial. Kill too flamboyantly and lose enough respect, and you'll be the one getting fitted for cement shoes.