Action Games

New Play Control! Donkey Kong Jungle Beat

New Play Control! Donkey Kong Jungle Beat

Platform: Wii
May 4, 2009
Donkey Kong Jungle Beat originally debuted on the Nintendo GameCube system. This new version has been remastered with motion controls, new enemies and obstacles, and a new final boss battle. Nintendo also has added special monkeys to each stage that give tips or let players save their progress. The new controls make this well-reviewed game accessible to new players while giving those who played the original new challenges. The goal of the game is to guide Donkey Kong through beautifully rendered stages like lava caves, tempestuous oceans and even a ninja-chimp fortress. Racing through the game will get players to the goal, but the real skill comes from helping Donkey Kong perform multiple mid-air acrobatic moves as he collects bananas in each stage. The more sweet moves he does in a row, the more bonus bananas he gets at the end of the stage. To become the king of the jungle, he must team up with animal friends and defeat multiple contenders in boxing matches. [Nintendo]
Metascore:
78
User Score:
8.5
X-Men Origins: Wolverine

X-Men Origins: Wolverine

Platform: PlayStation 3
May 1, 2009
Unleash the razor sharp adamantium claws, feral instincts, and mutant regeneration powers of the world's fiercest Super Hero - Wolverine - and uncage the story of how the ultimate weapon was created. The team at Raven Software has dedicated Wolverine's development to unstoppable, true-to-character authenticity. Take on impossible odds and exact revenge. [Activision]
Metascore:
73
User Score:
7.9
X-Men Origins: Wolverine

X-Men Origins: Wolverine

Platform: Xbox 360
May 1, 2009
Unleash the razor sharp adamantium claws, feral instincts, and mutant regeneration powers of the world's fiercest Super Hero - Wolverine - and uncage the story of how the ultimate weapon was created. The team at Raven Software has dedicated Wolverine's development to unstoppable, true-to-character authenticity. Take on impossible odds and exact revenge. [Activision]
Metascore:
75
User Score:
8.3
X-Men Origins: Wolverine

X-Men Origins: Wolverine

Platform: Wii
May 1, 2009
X-Men Origins: Wolverine is an action-adventure game based on the movie of the same name and will take you through and beyond the movie's storyline.
Metascore:
53
User Score:
5.9
X-Men Origins: Wolverine

X-Men Origins: Wolverine

Platform: PC
May 1, 2009
Unleash the razor sharp adamantium claws, feral instincts, and mutant regeneration powers of the world's fiercest Super Hero - Wolverine - and uncage the story of how the ultimate weapon was created. The team at Raven Software has dedicated Wolverine's development to unstoppable, true-to-character authenticity. Take on impossible odds and exact revenge. [Activision]
Metascore:
77
User Score:
7.9
X-Men Origins: Wolverine

X-Men Origins: Wolverine

Platform: DS
May 1, 2009
X-Men Origins: Wolverine is an action-adventure game based on the movie of the same name and will take you through and beyond the movie's storyline.
Metascore:
55
User Score:
8.3
X-Men Origins: Wolverine

X-Men Origins: Wolverine

Platform: PSP
May 1, 2009
X-Men Origins: Wolverine is an action-adventure game based on the movie of the same name and will take you through and beyond the movie's storyline.
Metascore:
60
User Score:
7.4
Velvet Assassin

Velvet Assassin

Platform: Xbox 360
April 30, 2009
Velvet Assassin is a stealth-action game set in World War II and is inspired by real-life British secret agent Violette Szabo. Players assume the role of Violette Summer and head deep behind enemy lines with no support or official backing from the British Government. Violette risks her life fighting to defeat the German war machine one stealth mission at a time. Velvet Assassin combines lush, surreal visuals and a ground-breaking stealth combat system to deliver a gaming experience which is truly the first of its kind. [Gamecock Media]
Metascore:
56
User Score:
7.0
Velvet Assassin

Velvet Assassin

Platform: PC
April 30, 2009
Velvet Assassin is a stealth-action game set in World War II and is inspired by real-life British secret agent Violette Szabo. Players assume the role of Violette Summer and head deep behind enemy lines with no support or official backing from the British Government. Violette risks her life fighting to defeat the German war machine one stealth mission at a time. Velvet Assassin combines lush, surreal visuals and a ground-breaking stealth combat system to deliver a gaming experience which is truly the first of its kind. [Gamecock Media]
Metascore:
61
User Score:
6.3
Virtual-On: Oratorio Tangram Ver.5.66

Virtual-On: Oratorio Tangram Ver.5.66

Platform: Xbox 360
April 29, 2009
[Xbox Live Arcade; Also known as "Virtual On"] The arcade classic CYBER TROOPERS VIRTUAL-ON ORATORIO TANGRAM comes to Xbox LIVE Arcade! Keeping the classic mech fighting style, Virtual-On returns enhanced with intense HD graphics and a thrilling 1-on-1 online multiplayer battle mode. Giant mechs: Enjoy all the thrills of the classic arcade mech fighter in the comforts of your home on Xbox LIVE Arcade. Full roster: Choose from 15 playable Virtuaroids, each highly stylized with unique characterstics and moves. Multiplayer: Online multiplayer mode allows players to battle head-to-head with friends from around the world. Fast action: Fast visceral action is heightened by the intense HD graphics. Customization: The unique "color editing" feature lets you customize your Virtuaroid in the style of your choice. [Sega]
Metascore:
73
User Score:
8.3
Banjo-Tooie

Banjo-Tooie

Platform: Xbox 360
April 29, 2009
The bear and bird’s second outing available in full. Loads of rollicking fun to be had here and with the legendary Stop 'N' Swop feature reinstated. The best use of a backpack in a game ever! [Microsoft]
Metascore:
73
User Score:
8.3
Dynasty Warriors: Strikeforce

Dynasty Warriors: Strikeforce

Platform: PSP
April 28, 2009
For the first time in the franchise, up to four friends can join together to form a tactical "Strikeforce" with history's mightiest warriors. Working as a team, players can plan coordinated assaults to conquer massive armed fortresses and colossal beasts. The game's heart-pounding action will go where it has never gone before- the skies above. Gifted with new supernatural powers, characters can unleash new "Fury" transformations, streak across the skies and battle enemies in the air. Completely re-designed levels featuring immense castles, towers and ships serve as the backdrop for these legendary quests and battles with massive bosses. With both single-player and multi-player quests, new "air" fighting techniques, radical character customization, new challenges to conquer, and downloadable content, Dynasty Warriors: Strikeforce will forever change the way you experience the Dynasty Warriors universe. [KOEI]
Metascore:
65
User Score:
7.1
Cocoto Platform Jumper

Cocoto Platform Jumper

Platform: Wii
April 27, 2009
[WiiWare] A long time ago in a faraway land, strange little creatures lived in the depths of Abyss. Cocoto, his little devil friends and the mysterious Fairy protect the secret of the magma — the source of their power — in a magic cauldron. Meanwhile, Zaron, the god of lightning who lusts after this force, is up to something. He can count on the rulers of the other kingdoms that Cocoto must cross. The tragic kidnapping of Shiny, Baggy and Neuro has left Cocoto alone to watch over the cauldron. Refusing to leave his friends, he will set out to find them with Fairy. [Nintendo]
Metascore:
59
User Score:
tbd
Cryostasis: The Sleep of Reason

Cryostasis: The Sleep of Reason

Platform: PC
April 24, 2009
Cryostasis takes place in 1981 on a nuclear ice breaker called the North Wind, which has become shipwrecked near the North Pole. The main character, Alexander Nesterov is a Russian meteorologist who must investigate what happened onboard the ship. But he’s not alone and the North Wind is now plagued by dead crewmen who have undergone a bizarre metamorphosis due to the effects of the incredibly cold climate. Alexander must try to unravel the mystery of the ship captain’s death and discover whether it was the cold or, possibly, something far more sinister. [1C Company]
Metascore:
69
User Score:
7.6
Lode Runner

Lode Runner

Platform: Xbox 360
April 22, 2009
[Xbox Live Arcade] The classic action game Lode Runner is back, with 220 new levels and even more surprises! Confront crazed enemies in fresh sets of single-player levels and fun-filled co-op challenges, or lean back and master increasingly complex puzzles. Battle it out with endlessly spawning enemies in a feverish new mode, or challenge up to three friends in a cunning game of high speed tag, where the first to die are the first to avenge - as enemies! Create custom levels and host matches over Xbox LIVE. Lode Runner legacy: Inspired by the classic action title, but the game is recreated from the ground up for Xbox LIVE Arcade with 3-D graphics, all-new levels, and play modes. Game modes for everyone: Play expansive single-player and co-op Journey campaigns, frantic Hang On survival challenges, complex puzzles, and a four-player Last Man competition that rewards sabotage, revenge, and outright deviousness. New content: Explore five worlds inhabited by unique enemies and special terrain such as avalanche blocks, stalactites, and teleports. Blast blocks with bombs and collect energy balls to add lives. Unearth hidden enemies! Transition from one level to the next seamlessly. Master new co-operative play techniques like blasting blocks while riding on a buddy's head. Level editor and community: Design custom levels for any game mode and environment to challenge your friends. Host Xbox LIVE matches with your cunning creations or upload and download the coolest custom levels from the Lode Runner community. [Tozai]
Metascore:
76
User Score:
7.2
101-in-1 Explosive Megamix

101-in-1 Explosive Megamix

Platform: DS
April 21, 2009
Welcome to the home of 101 mind-blowing mini-games for all tastes! Whether you like puzzle games, sport games or fast-paced arcade action, you'll definitely find something to suit you here! You can play alone or team up with your friends in wireless VS battles. Jump in - ten of hours of games await you! [Nordcurrent]
Metascore:
46
User Score:
tbd
Zeno Clash

Zeno Clash

Platform: PC
April 21, 2009
Zeno Clash is an action/fighting game set in a punk fantasy world. The game is played from a first person perspective and the combat is generally up close and brutal. Experience a deep storyline set in a fantastic world. Play the role of Ghat, a man banished by his own brothers and forced to begin a desperate journey past the forbidden desert and to the end of the world. [Steam]
Metascore:
77
User Score:
7.7
Dynasty Warriors: Gundam 2

Dynasty Warriors: Gundam 2

Platform: Xbox 360
April 21, 2009
In the future, rebel space colonies launch a brutal war of independence with a series of coordinated orbital strikes against Earth. The chaotic assault signals the dawn of a new age of combat and the ultimate instrument of warfare is born, the Mobile Suit. Dynasty Warriors: Gundam 2 combines the devastating power of the Mobile Suit, the rich legacy of the Gundam universe and the furious Tactical Action game play of the Dynasty Warriors series. The game thrusts players into incredible battles against legions of enemy Mobile Suits on distant planetary surfaces and in the far reaches of outer space. For the first time, Dynasty Warriors: Gundam 2 lets players engage in melee battles against colossal enemies such as the Psycho Gundam. The massive Psycho Gundam can quickly reconfigure their bodies into titanic mobile fortresses which can move with remarkable speed. However, highly-trained pilots can utilize their own Mobile Suit’s speed, agility, and of course firepower to defeat these deadly juggernauts. Dynasty Warriors: Gundam 2 also includes new stories featuring mecha from the latest Gundam anime, plus mecha from Char’s Counter Attack and more. With mecha parts collected throughout the course of the game, players can adapt a Mobile Suit which can be piloted into combat. [Namco Bandai Games]
Metascore:
49
User Score:
6.5
Dynasty Warriors: Gundam 2

Dynasty Warriors: Gundam 2

Platform: PlayStation 2
April 21, 2009
In the future, rebel space colonies launch a brutal war of independence with a series of coordinated orbital strikes against Earth. The chaotic assault signals the dawn of a new age of combat and the ultimate instrument of warfare is born, the Mobile Suit. Dynasty Warriors: Gundam 2 combines the devastating power of the Mobile Suit, the rich legacy of the Gundam universe and the furious Tactical Action game play of the Dynasty Warriors series. The game thrusts players into incredible battles against legions of enemy Mobile Suits on distant planetary surfaces and in the far reaches of outer space. For the first time, Dynasty Warriors: Gundam 2 lets players engage in melee battles against colossal enemies such as the Psycho Gundam. The massive Psycho Gundam can quickly reconfigure their bodies into titanic mobile fortresses which can move with remarkable speed. However, highly-trained pilots can utilize their own Mobile Suit’s speed, agility, and of course firepower to defeat these deadly juggernauts. Dynasty Warriors: Gundam 2 also includes new stories featuring mecha from the latest Gundam anime, plus mecha from Char’s Counter Attack and more. With mecha parts collected throughout the course of the game, players can adapt a Mobile Suit which can be piloted into combat. [Namco Bandai Games]
Metascore:
52
User Score:
7.0
Dynasty Warriors: Gundam 2

Dynasty Warriors: Gundam 2

Platform: PlayStation 3
April 21, 2009
In the future, rebel space colonies launch a brutal war of independence with a series of coordinated orbital strikes against Earth. The chaotic assault signals the dawn of a new age of combat and the ultimate instrument of warfare is born, the Mobile Suit. Dynasty Warriors: Gundam 2 combines the devastating power of the Mobile Suit, the rich legacy of the Gundam universe and the furious Tactical Action game play of the Dynasty Warriors series. The game thrusts players into incredible battles against legions of enemy Mobile Suits on distant planetary surfaces and in the far reaches of outer space. For the first time, Dynasty Warriors: Gundam 2 lets players engage in melee battles against colossal enemies such as the Psycho Gundam. The massive Psycho Gundam can quickly reconfigure their bodies into titanic mobile fortresses which can move with remarkable speed. However, highly-trained pilots can utilize their own Mobile Suit’s speed, agility, and of course firepower to defeat these deadly juggernauts. Dynasty Warriors: Gundam 2 also includes new stories featuring mecha from the latest Gundam anime, plus mecha from Char’s Counter Attack and more. With mecha parts collected throughout the course of the game, players can adapt a Mobile Suit which can be piloted into combat. [Namco Bandai Games]
Metascore:
54
User Score:
6.9
PixelJunk Eden Encore

PixelJunk Eden Encore

Platform: PlayStation 3
April 16, 2009
[Playstation Network] Encore is an expansion pack for PixelJunk Eden and adds five new levels.
Metascore:
86
User Score:
6.8
Braid

Braid

Platform: PC
April 10, 2009
Braid is a puzzle-platformer, drawn in a painterly style, where the player manipulates the flow of time in strange and unusual ways. From a house in the city, journey to a series of worlds and solve puzzles to rescue an abducted princess. In each world, you have a different power to affect the way time behaves, and it is time's strangeness that creates the puzzles. The time behaviors include: the ability to rewind, objects that are immune to being rewound, time that is tied to space, parallel realities, time dilation, and perhaps more. Braid treats your time and attention as precious; there is no filler in this game. Every puzzle shows you something new and interesting about the game world. Braid is a 2-D platform game where you can never die and never lose.
Metascore:
90
User Score:
8.6
Flock!

Flock!

Platform: PlayStation 3
April 9, 2009
FLOCK! uses a sophisticated physics engine that drives the challenging puzzle elements of the game. Whether it's using the Tractor beam to move obstacles out of the way, or the Depressor beam to stamp out crop circles to guide your herds, being an extraterrestrial has never been this addictive. Friends can also join in through co-op play. And when all the levels have been completed, users can make their own with the level editor that comes with the game. Flock comes packed with so much content, the potential fun is out of this world! Over 50 levels of pastoral puzzle challenges. Explore levels to find secret collectables and upgrades. Level Editor allows players to make their own "plushie" and puzzle-filled levels and share them with their friends online. Two-player local co-op mode makes the "flocking" exponentially fun. Compelling environments complemented by a whimsical art style, beautiful lighting and distinctive textures make this one of the most graphically-advanced downloadable titles to date. Real-world physics engine creates all new types of puzzles: pick up wooden planks to form bridges, move items to create obstructions, crush wheat into pathways. [Capcom]
Metascore:
71
User Score:
tbd
Rag Doll Kung Fu: Fists of Plastic

Rag Doll Kung Fu: Fists of Plastic

Platform: PlayStation 3
April 9, 2009
[Playstation Network] Developed by Tarsier Studios, Rag Doll Kung Fu: Fists of Plastic is a PS3 exclusive party-fighting game based on the original 2005 title, Rag Doll Kung Fu, created by Mark Healy (co-founder of Media Molecule). A fast-paced combat game with an imaginative look and feel, Ragdoll Kung Fu: Fists of Plastic focuses on fun with exaggerated ragdoll physics action and charming HD visuals. Featuring accessible and intuitive controls, novice players can orchestrate impressive attacks with ninja-like precision, while offering hardcore players an intense combat system, use-of-weapons and strategy. Success depends on mastering basic Kung Fu moves while sharpening their acrobatic skills to swing off platforms and somersault through the air. This action builds up Chi Power, which can be conjured to perform spectacular SIXAXIS wireless controller-triggered special attack moves and combat sequences. Players can even taunt their opponents with the Free Pose system, ensuring the battle is infused with lighthearted fun. Perfect for any social occasion, Rag Doll Kung Fu: Fists of Plastic offers frantic multiplayer action for up to four players locally. [SCEA]
Metascore:
68
User Score:
7.0
FLOCK!

FLOCK!

Platform: Xbox 360
April 8, 2009
[Xbox Live Arcade] Protect your cornfields and lock up your livestock, because Flock! is here! Pilot a UFO around vibrantly-colored landscapes in this charming sandbox puzzle game where you must herd animal life back to the Motherflocker. Using a powerful physics engine that drives many of the game's elements, Flock! features over 50 pastoral puzzles. Pick up wood to form bridges, move boulders to create obstructions, and flatten fields into pathways all to help deliver your herd before time runs out! Flock together with a friend and even create and share your own crazy levels online. Animal control: Herd, poke, prod and manipulate cute, cuddly animals that react to each other and their hazardous surroundings. Unique style: Enjoy the whimsical hand stitched and stuffed art style using beautiful next-gen graphics. Level editor: The level editor allows for custom puzzles to be created, shared, and rated. Multiplayer fun: Two-player local co-op lets you flock with a friend. Extras: Explore with lots of fun surprises, secret collectibles, and upgrades to find along the way. [Capcom]
Metascore:
68
User Score:
5.6
Dragon Ball: Evolution

Dragon Ball: Evolution

Platform: PSP
April 8, 2009
In Dragon Ball: Evolution for the PSP system, ultimate powers collide as players match up against their favorite characters from the film release and battle for control of the seven sacred Dragon Balls that have the power to grant any wish. Dragon Ball: Evolution employs an easy-to-learn yet difficult to master fighting system which provides everyone the power to pull off stylish and dynamic attacks. Ki (energy) management is essential to gain the upper hand and unleash a devastating attack on their unsuspecting opponents. Participating in intense battles, gamers are invited to follow the path of Goku to his predestined fight against the evil Lord Piccolo in Story mode. Players can also battle against a number of opponents in Arcade mode, accept challenges in Mission mode or hone their technique in Training mode. Dragon Ball: Evolution also lets players challenge friends to online feats of strength in Network Battle mode for infinite replay value. [Namco Bandai Games]
Metascore:
28
User Score:
1.4
The Chronicles of Riddick: Assault on Dark Athena

The Chronicles of Riddick: Assault on Dark Athena

Platform: PC
April 7, 2009
Taking advantage of new hardware technologies, this package presents a reinvention of "Escape from Butcher Bay", delivering 2004's award winning experience in high definition with enhancements. Also included is the Dark Athena chapter, an expansion of the original game with a new story and new gameplay features. With The Chronicles of Riddick: Assault on Dark Athena, players are not only be challenged to survive Butcher Bay, but also engage in a new single-player experience and, for the first time in the Riddick universe, take action in intense multi-player combat. The game introduces the ominous Merc-ship Dark Athena, which sits silent like a marauding spider, awaiting helpless prey in the dark reaches of the galaxy. Players must face a large, bloodthirsty operation led by the dreaded Captain Revas and her slaves-turned-controllable combat drones, storm though death-defying events and fight fierce enemies in a battle of malice and gore. [Sierra Entertainment]
Metascore:
80
User Score:
7.8
Hammerin' Hero

Hammerin' Hero

Platform: PSP
April 7, 2009
Hammerin' Hero marks the triumphant return of Gen, everyone's favorite justice-bringing carpenter! Help Gen fight off Hyosuke Kuromoku and his evil construction company before they can evict Gen's neighbors from their homes! Gen will have to use a variety of jobs-from DJ to baseball player-through 12 diverse stages if he hopes to thwart the all-out attack of the Kurokomu Group and win the hearts of the people, even if it sometimes means giving them the tough love they need to solve their own problems. Wacky side-scrolling beat 'em up - Play as Gen-san as he hammers away at corporate evil across Japan and the world in this vibrant, action-packed platformer. The comic adventure unfolds fully-voiced in English and Japanese. Be more than a hammerin' hero - Choose from a variety of jobs, including sushi chef, baseball player, and diver, to give Gen different costumes and attacks as he fights through 12 crazy stages. Along the way, make allies in battle, collect loads of items, and even unlock two more playable characters! Ad-hoc multiplayer - 2 players can play together and compete for the best score on each level over ad-hoc wireless play. Why hammer alone when you can hammer with a friend? [Atlus USA]
Metascore:
73
User Score:
7.8
Flock!

Flock!

Platform: PC
April 7, 2009
FLOCK! uses a sophisticated physics engine that drives the challenging puzzle elements of the game. Whether it's using the Tractor beam to move obstacles out of the way, or the Depressor beam to stamp out crop circles to guide your herds, being an extraterrestrial has never been this addictive. Friends can also join in through co-op play. And when all the levels have been completed, users can make their own with the level editor that comes with the game. Flock comes packed with so much content, the potential fun is out of this world! Over 50 levels of pastoral puzzle challenges. Explore levels to find secret collectables and upgrades. Level Editor allows players to make their own "plushie" and puzzle-filled levels and share them with their friends online. Two-player local co-op mode makes the "flocking" exponentially fun. Compelling environments complemented by a whimsical art style, beautiful lighting and distinctive textures make this one of the most graphically-advanced downloadable titles to date. Real-world physics engine creates all new types of puzzles: pick up wooden planks to form bridges, move items to create obstructions, crush wheat into pathways. [Capcom]
Metascore:
65
User Score:
4.8
The Chronicles of Riddick: Assault on Dark Athena

The Chronicles of Riddick: Assault on Dark Athena

Platform: Xbox 360
April 7, 2009
Taking advantage of new hardware technologies, this package presents a reinvention of "Escape from Butcher Bay", delivering 2004's award winning experience in high definition with enhancements. Also included is the Dark Athena chapter, an expansion of the original game with a new story and new gameplay features. With The Chronicles of Riddick: Assault on Dark Athena, players are not only be challenged to survive Butcher Bay, but also engage in a new single-player experience and, for the first time in the Riddick universe, take action in intense multi-player combat. The game introduces the ominous Merc-ship Dark Athena, which sits silent like a marauding spider, awaiting helpless prey in the dark reaches of the galaxy. Players must face a large, bloodthirsty operation led by the dreaded Captain Revas and her slaves-turned-controllable combat drones, storm though death-defying events and fight fierce enemies in a battle of malice and gore. [Sierra Entertainment]
Metascore:
82
User Score:
8.2
The Chronicles of Riddick: Assault on Dark Athena

The Chronicles of Riddick: Assault on Dark Athena

Platform: PlayStation 3
April 7, 2009
Taking advantage of new hardware technologies, this package presents a reinvention of "Escape from Butcher Bay", delivering 2004's award winning experience in high definition with enhancements. Also included is the Dark Athena chapter, an expansion of the original game with a new story and new gameplay features. With The Chronicles of Riddick: Assault on Dark Athena, players are not only be challenged to survive Butcher Bay, but also engage in a new single-player experience and, for the first time in the Riddick universe, take action in intense multi-player combat. The game introduces the ominous Merc-ship Dark Athena, which sits silent like a marauding spider, awaiting helpless prey in the dark reaches of the galaxy. Players must face a large, bloodthirsty operation led by the dreaded Captain Revas and her slaves-turned-controllable combat drones, storm though death-defying events and fight fierce enemies in a battle of malice and gore. [Sierra Entertainment]
Metascore:
80
User Score:
8.2
Hannah Montana: The Movie

Hannah Montana: The Movie

Platform: Xbox 360
April 7, 2009
Step into the secret dual life of Miley Stewart and Hannah Montana in Hanna Montana The Movie video game. Journey beyond the movie and for the first time ever perform as Hannah Montana or Miley Stewart! Explore Miley's hometown of Crowley Corners as she rediscovers the world she left behind. Launch signature dance moves and jam with band members on the drums, guitar, keyboard and microphone. Rock out on 6 concert stages as you perform for your fans. Perform 15 hit songs - including 5 new tracks from the movie. [Disney Interactive]
Metascore:
25
User Score:
4.2
Professor Heinz Wolff's Gravity

Professor Heinz Wolff's Gravity

Platform: DS
April 6, 2009
It contains 100 levels packed with physical puzzles. The player needs to place elements in the correct order to reach the next level. Many levels offer different ways of completing, sometimes with surprising results. The game does not contain the dry subject matter of a physic lesson in school, instead the fun aspect dominates. The game becomes accomplished with dozens of high quality hand painted background arts and an atmospheric soundtrack.
Metascore:
53
User Score:
tbd
Professor Heinz Wolff's Gravity

Professor Heinz Wolff's Gravity

Platform: Wii
April 6, 2009
It contains 100 levels packed with physical puzzles. The player needs to place elements in the correct order to reach the next level. Many levels offer different ways of completing, sometimes with surprising results. The game does not contain the dry subject matter of a physic lesson in school, instead the fun aspect dominates. The game becomes accomplished with dozens of high quality hand painted background arts and an atmospheric soundtrack.
Metascore:
63
User Score:
7.7
Rhythm Heaven

Rhythm Heaven

Platform: DS
April 5, 2009
(Also known as "Rhythm Paradise") Rhythm Heaven is a simple and infectious rhythm game that anyone can play. If you can tap your finger in time to music, you'll get the hang of Rhythm Heaven in no time. Players hold the Nintendo DS system sideways like a book and tap their stylus on the touch screen to the rhythm of the music. Players tap, slide or flick the stylus to hit the right beat. Rhythm Heaven features catchy tunes, charming characters and a wide variety of rhythm games. [Nintendo]
Metascore:
83
User Score:
8.4
Bird & Beans

Bird & Beans

Platform: DS
April 5, 2009
[DSiWare; Also known as "Pyoro"] Using an elastic tongue, players must scramble to collect falling beans. The harder a bean is to catch, the more points it's worth. [Nintendo]
Metascore:
71
User Score:
7.8
Major Minor's Majestic March

Major Minor's Majestic March

Platform: Wii
April 2, 2009
In a town where marching bands are prevalent and everyone is looking to be the best, Major Mike Minor is fairly ambivalent towards marches despite hailing from a long line of illustrious Drum Majors. After his parents present him with a "special" baton that magically attracts band members to fall into rhythm behind the leader, will Major Minor finally fulfill his potential and share the joy of marching with the world? Major Minor's Majestic March marks the return of the creative team behind the renowned PaRappa the Rapper franchise--legendary game designer and multimedia musician Masaya Matsuura and famed New York artist Rodney Alan Greenblat. Your Wii Remote is Major Minor's "special" bandleader baton, used to keep tempo, recruit new band members and pick-up valuable items. If your rhythm is unstable confusion will result; band members will drop out and you could ultimately fail the stage. March in 7 different whimsical locations that contain various hair-raising events. Use your best efforts to create the most impressive parade ever whilst nimbly avoiding obstacles. Add 15 different instruments to your procession, from brass to woodwinds to percussion. As the makeup of the band changes, so does the performance; it all depends on which members you select! Try different combinations each time you play. Numerous modes of play. March and keep tempo to more than 30 well-known marching band tunes from around the world, composed into original medleys for each unique stage. Dazzle the crowd with your incredible baton-twirling displays during brief intermissions. [Majesco]
Metascore:
46
User Score:
tbd
And Yet It Moves

And Yet It Moves

Platform: PC
April 2, 2009
And Yet It Moves is a puzzle-platformer, set in a unique world, made of ripped paper. Within the paper collage, you can jump, run and last but certainly not least: rotate the world. Learn how to apply the physical consequences of rotation to master the many tricky situations you may encounter. You can play a race against the clock on different levels, too, competing against previous clocked times. Your run will be recorded, as a »Ghost« which can be submitted, along with your time, to the global high scores online. You can download other users' Ghosts to compete with friends and strangers around the world and see who found the fastest route. Following the acclaim of the previously awarded prototype for And Yet It Moves, we present the full version, containing three exciting and beautiful environments and lots of new challenges. [Broken Rules]
Metascore:
75
User Score:
6.2
The Dishwasher: Dead Samurai

The Dishwasher: Dead Samurai

Platform: Xbox 360
April 1, 2009
[Xbox Live Arcade] The Dishwasher: Dead Samurai is a 2-D stylistic action platformer for Xbox LIVE Arcade showcasing fast action, deep gameplay, and a unique visual style. An undead samurai dishwasher in a dystopian universe is on a quest for revenge against the evil cyborg army. To dispatch hordes of zombies, cyborgs, and robots, the Dishwasher has at his fingertips a devastating array of attacks using ancient blades, disturbing machinery, and screen-obliterating Dish Magic. Compete with the rest of the world in a variety of speed run and high score challenges to become the most formidable Dishwasher yet. Fresh take on gameplay: Gameplay in The Dishwasher is a fresh take on popular stylistic action combat, taking combo- and timing-intensive combat into a 2-D, blood-soaked environment emphasizing speed, vertical movement, and maneuverability, and player-driven pacing to create a truly unique, fluid and visceral experience, with an appealingly psychotic art style. New game modes with guitar peripheral: The Dishwasher has arcade co-op, drop-in solo campaign co-op, and drop-in solo phantom guitar co-op using the guitar peripheral. Phantom guitar players can unload electric death by playing wicked solos, perform basic movement, and use the guitar's motion control to rip through enemies with a razor-sharp headstock. The power of XNA: The Dishwasher is a testament to the power of XNA. The game was created by one guy with no professional game development experience (and a self-described lousy programmer) in about a year and a half. [Ska Studios]
Metascore:
75
User Score:
7.8
Tokyo Beat Down

Tokyo Beat Down

Platform: DS
March 31, 2009
Who has it within them to rise up against the ever growing threat of violence, crime, and terrorism on the streets of Tokyo? Enter the Beast Cops, tireless servants of justice. These men and women struggle night and day for the heart of the city. They'll match any villain punch for punch, kick for kick, bullet for bullet. They're Beast Cops because they will do whatever it takes, pay any price, inflict as much damage as necessary, in order to restore peace and security to the streets of Tokyo. Beat 'em up that lets you shoot 'em up - When fisticuffs aren't enough, add guns to deliver a whole new brand of justice to the mean streets of Tokyo. Pick up a variety of weapons, ranging from handguns to rocket launchers, for intense action on each level. Badass 70's cop show vibe - Outrageous style, over-the-top substance, and no holds barred hardboiled police action mix with madcap humor and sharply-written dialogue. Dishing out justice to the seamy underbelly of Tokyo has never been this satisfying. Multiple characters & endings - This sordid tale of Tokyo's criminal set unfolds through the eyes of three different cops with unique play styles. Story branches lead to multiple endings that determine whether you'll get your shot to beat down the ultimate crime boss. [Atlus USA]
Metascore:
56
User Score:
tbd
Guitar Hero: Metallica

Guitar Hero: Metallica

Platform: Xbox 360
March 29, 2009
Guitar Hero: Metallica takes music fans through the band’s fabled library of songs, plus the music and musicians who influence them. When the house lights go down, virtual rock stars across the globe will shred, drum and wail to an explosive set list featuring over 45 tracks from Metallica’s illustrious career and a wide variety of other legendary artists personally selected by the band, such as Queen, Foo Fighters, Bob Seger, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Slayer and Judas Priest. Featuring tracks from every Metallica studio album, the complete Guitar Hero Metallica on-disc set list includes their following hits: All Nightmare Long, Battery, Creeping Death, Disposable Heroes, Dyers Eve, Enter Sandman, Fade To Black, Fight Fire With Fire, For Whom The Bell Tolls, Frantic, Fuel, Hit The Lights, King Nothing, Master of Puppets, Mercyful Fate, No Leaf Clover, Nothing Else Matters, One, Orion, Sad But True, Seek And Destroy, The Memory Remains, The Shortest Straw, The Thing That Should Not Be, The Unforgiven, Welcome Home (Sanitarium), Wherever I May Roam, and Whiplash. Complementing Metallica’s intensity are 21 rockin’ tracks personally chosen by the band, including "War Ensemble" by Slayer. [Activision]
Metascore:
84
User Score:
8.0
Guitar Hero: Metallica

Guitar Hero: Metallica

Platform: PlayStation 3
March 29, 2009
Guitar Hero: Metallica takes music fans through the band’s fabled library of songs, plus the music and musicians who influence them. When the house lights go down, virtual rock stars across the globe will shred, drum and wail to an explosive set list featuring over 45 tracks from Metallica’s illustrious career and a wide variety of other legendary artists personally selected by the band, such as Queen, Foo Fighters, Bob Seger, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Slayer and Judas Priest. Featuring tracks from every Metallica studio album, the complete Guitar Hero Metallica on-disc set list includes their following hits: All Nightmare Long, Battery, Creeping Death, Disposable Heroes, Dyers Eve, Enter Sandman, Fade To Black, Fight Fire With Fire, For Whom The Bell Tolls, Frantic, Fuel, Hit The Lights, King Nothing, Master of Puppets, Mercyful Fate, No Leaf Clover, Nothing Else Matters, One, Orion, Sad But True, Seek And Destroy, The Memory Remains, The Shortest Straw, The Thing That Should Not Be, The Unforgiven, Welcome Home (Sanitarium), Wherever I May Roam, and Whiplash. Complementing Metallica’s intensity are 21 rockin’ tracks personally chosen by the band, including "War Ensemble" by Slayer. [Activision]
Metascore:
86
User Score:
8.1
Guitar Hero: Metallica

Guitar Hero: Metallica

Platform: Wii
March 29, 2009
Guitar Hero: Metallica takes music fans through the band’s fabled library of songs, plus the music and musicians who influence them. When the house lights go down, virtual rock stars across the globe will shred, drum and wail to an explosive set list featuring over 45 tracks from Metallica’s illustrious career and a wide variety of other legendary artists personally selected by the band, such as Queen, Foo Fighters, Bob Seger, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Slayer and Judas Priest. Featuring tracks from every Metallica studio album, the complete Guitar Hero Metallica on-disc set list includes their following hits: All Nightmare Long, Battery, Creeping Death, Disposable Heroes, Dyers Eve, Enter Sandman, Fade To Black, Fight Fire With Fire, For Whom The Bell Tolls, Frantic, Fuel, Hit The Lights, King Nothing, Master of Puppets, Mercyful Fate, No Leaf Clover, Nothing Else Matters, One, Orion, Sad But True, Seek And Destroy, The Memory Remains, The Shortest Straw, The Thing That Should Not Be, The Unforgiven, Welcome Home (Sanitarium), Wherever I May Roam, and Whiplash. Complementing Metallica’s intensity are 21 rockin’ tracks personally chosen by the band, including "War Ensemble" by Slayer. [Activision]
Metascore:
85
User Score:
7.6
Burn Zombie Burn

Burn Zombie Burn

Platform: PlayStation 3
March 26, 2009
[Playstation Network] Play as Bruce as you shoot, burn, and blow up brain-munching zombies using a variety of weapons.
Metascore:
76
User Score:
7.7
Dark Sector

Dark Sector

Platform: PC
March 24, 2009
An all-new and original action-thriller designed exclusively for next-generation consoles, Dark Sector thrusts players into the role of Hayden Tenno, an elite black-ops agent sent on a dangerous mission into a decaying Eastern European city that hides a deadly Cold War secret. Attacked by an unknown enemy, he awakens to find part of his body altered by an infection that has granted him inhuman abilities and he must learn to evolve along with his powers, to survive and to become a hero. A dark, gritty experience packed with fast action, incredible superpowers and an engaging story. [D3Publisher of America]
Metascore:
66
User Score:
6.4
WWE Legends of WrestleMania

WWE Legends of WrestleMania

Platform: Xbox 360
March 24, 2009
WWE Legends of WrestleMania embraces the leading sports entertainment organization's rich history to relive, rewrite or recreate the definitive elements of WWE from the Eighties and Nineties. Players relive the entertaining lives of more than 40 larger-than-life Legends and have control over Legendary Managers, each of whom play crucial roles in match outcomes. The game's new grapple-based fighting system captures the high-energy action and drama seen in vintage WWE matches, while a historically accurate representation of past WWE telecasts sets the stage, including dynamic visual treatments, signature ring entrances, renowned commentators and notable venues. WWE Legends of WrestleMania also includes a WrestleMania Tour Mode that allows players to participate in key matches from multiple WrestleMania events, a Create-A-Legend system to develop the Legends of tomorrow, as well as online functionality for players to compete on the biggest stages in WWE history. [THQ]
Metascore:
71
User Score:
6.1
WWE Legends of WrestleMania

WWE Legends of WrestleMania

Platform: PlayStation 3
March 24, 2009
WWE Legends of WrestleMania embraces the leading sports entertainment organization's rich history to relive, rewrite or recreate the definitive elements of WWE from the Eighties and Nineties. Players relive the entertaining lives of more than 40 larger-than-life Legends and have control over Legendary Managers, each of whom play crucial roles in match outcomes. The game's new grapple-based fighting system captures the high-energy action and drama seen in vintage WWE matches, while a historically accurate representation of past WWE telecasts sets the stage, including dynamic visual treatments, signature ring entrances, renowned commentators and notable venues. WWE Legends of WrestleMania also includes a WrestleMania Tour Mode that allows players to participate in key matches from multiple WrestleMania events, a Create-A-Legend system to develop the Legends of tomorrow, as well as online functionality for players to compete on the biggest stages in WWE history. [THQ]
Metascore:
70
User Score:
6.7
Wanted: Weapons of Fate

Wanted: Weapons of Fate

Platform: PlayStation 3
March 24, 2009
Based on Universal Pictures' action-thriller Wanted, this game promises to deliver the same fantastic visual style, in-your-face attitude and edge-of-your-seat action as the blockbuster motion picture. The game continues the story of hero Wesley Gibson, picking up the action where the film leaves off and creating an entirely new chapter exploring both Wesley's journey to becoming an unmatched überassassin and the epic fiction of "The Fraternity." Featuring intense third-person action, the Wanted video game will take combat to the next level with iconic moves -- such as "Curving Bullets" and "Assassin Time" -- drawn directly from the film, as well as an innovative, multi-layered cover mechanic.
Metascore:
61
User Score:
6.9
Wanted: Weapons of Fate

Wanted: Weapons of Fate

Platform: Xbox 360
March 24, 2009
Based on Universal Pictures' action-thriller Wanted, this game promises to deliver the same fantastic visual style, in-your-face attitude and edge-of-your-seat action as the blockbuster motion picture. The game continues the story of hero Wesley Gibson, picking up the action where the film leaves off and creating an entirely new chapter exploring both Wesley's journey to becoming an unmatched überassassin and the epic fiction of "The Fraternity." Featuring intense third-person action, the Wanted video game will take combat to the next level with iconic moves -- such as "Curving Bullets" and "Assassin Time" -- drawn directly from the film, as well as an innovative, multi-layered cover mechanic.
Metascore:
62
User Score:
7.3
Wanted: Weapons of Fate

Wanted: Weapons of Fate

Platform: PC
March 23, 2009
Based on Universal Pictures' action-thriller Wanted, this game promises to deliver the same fantastic visual style, in-your-face attitude and edge-of-your-seat action as the blockbuster motion picture. The game continues the story of hero Wesley Gibson, picking up the action where the film leaves off and creating an entirely new chapter exploring both Wesley's journey to becoming an unmatched überassassin and the epic fiction of "The Fraternity." Featuring intense third-person action, the Wanted video game will take combat to the next level with iconic moves -- such as "Curving Bullets" and "Assassin Time" -- drawn directly from the film, as well as an innovative, multi-layered cover mechanic.
Metascore:
62
User Score:
7.1
Mevo & the Grooveriders

Mevo & the Grooveriders

Platform: PC
March 20, 2009
In MEVO's quest to reunite his band, bring back 'FUNK', and defeat the enemy SILENCE, players must successfully progress through five beautifully crafted worlds (Ocean, Jungle, Desert, Space and Wormhole), finding avatars along the way that will help our reluctant hero unlock other levels and reach certain scores. Using a simple 2-key tap system (space bar and enter), players tap out the beats to re-energize MEVO and push him forward. As the game progresses, the beat sequences become more complex, evolving from basic single beats to rapid beats, combinations, sequences and long-hold sustains with breaks. By successfully completing the levels, players can access new areas and songs, or be rewarded with in-game items, such as avatar pieces that are needed to activate power-ups. Power-ups include slow mo, shield up, "perfect boost" scoring, and autopilot. No matter what skill level, players are rewarded with avatars, dance packs and badges to help progress through the game. Even though the game is accessible and easy to play for all levels of players, advanced players will be challenged with the game's multiple layers of game play, including hidden levels, power-ups, badges and dance packs. [Steam]
Metascore:
72
User Score:
6.0
Henry Hatsworth in the Puzzling Adventure

Henry Hatsworth in the Puzzling Adventure

Platform: DS
March 17, 2009
Meet Henry Hatsworth, a quirky, light-hearted character who players will guide on their journey through a new style of gaming adventure on their Nintendo DS. In this two-in-one adventure, players explore five exotic worlds, fight a variety of opponents, and venture through more than 30 levels, including nearly a dozen hidden levels while taking on outrageous world-ending bosses. The separate worlds on the two Nintendo DS screens have a cause and effect inter-relationship, and players choose when to switch between conquering the action-platform realm and mastering the increasingly challenging puzzle world. A wide variety of power-ups help Hatsworth in both of these worlds. Players complete puzzle combinations and defeat puzzle enemies in order to gain power ups, health, and energy to supercharge Hatsworth in his adventure. [Electronic Arts]
Metascore:
82
User Score:
8.1
Tom Clancy's HAWX

Tom Clancy's HAWX

Platform: PC
March 17, 2009
Tom Clancy's HAWX (high-altitude warfare) promises to revolutionize the way players think about combat in the sky. The story begins in the year 2012. As the era of the nation-state draws quickly to a close, the rules of warfare evolve even more rapidly. More and more nations become increasingly dependent on private military companies (PMCs), elite mercenaries with a lax view of the law. The Reykjavik Accords further legitimize their existence by authorizing their right to serve in every aspect of military operations. While the benefits of such PMCs are apparent, growing concerns surrounding giving them too much power begin to mount. The Enhanced Reality System is the backbone of the HAWX flight experience: radars and incoming missile detection, anti-crash system, damage control system, tactical map and information relay, and weapons trajectory control. E.R.S. also allows players to issue orders to their squadron, making this system as iconic to HAWX as the Cross-Com system is to Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter. Players can ease into their flight missions and gain a level of comfort with the use of the assistance mode. Once employed, players can take full advantage of their technological support through the E.R.S and gain maximum piloting security. If the situation calls for the player to unleash the full potential of the aircraft, the assistance mode can be switched off and all safety features will be deactivated. For the first time ever in the air-combat genre, players can experience the entire solo campaign in four-player JUMP IN co-op mode. In PVP mode, players can challenge up to 15 friends in intense dogfighting sessions and find out who's the top gun. Winning players are rewarded with experience points and money to unlock more weapons. Players have the opportunity to take the throttle of over 50 of the world's most famous aircrafts, as well as being able to dogfight over realistic modern landscapes that have endured years of post-war trauma. [Ubisoft]
Metascore:
70
User Score:
7.2
Resistance: Retribution

Resistance: Retribution

Platform: PSP
March 17, 2009
Set in the weeks after Resistance: Fall of Man, Resistance: Retribution follows the story of former British Marine, James Grayson. After a personal tragedy – he is forced to kill his own brother inside a Chimeran conversion center – Grayson goes on a vendetta to destroy every conversion center he can find. Eventually Grayson learns that his efforts have been futile... in Western Europe the Chimera have evolved a new method of converting humans. The European resistance – the Maquis – enlist Grayson's help, and he joins Cartwright and Parker in Operation Overstrike. The war to retake the European continent has begun. A third person action-adventure game created specifically for PSP with an advanced third person targeting system designed specifically for the platform. Over 10 different types of enemies, including Chimera from Resistance 2 and Resistance: Fall of Man – including the Titan, Slipskull, Hybrids and Leapers – and all new enemies like the Hag and Cloven. Intense eight player multiplayer gameplay with five game modes including Team Deathmatch, Capture the Flag, Containment and Assimilation available via ad-hoc and infrastructure. [SCEA]
Metascore:
81
User Score:
8.2
Marble Saga: Kororinpa

Marble Saga: Kororinpa

Platform: Wii
March 17, 2009
(Also known as "Marbles! Balance Challenge") Get ready for the next adventure into the world of Kororinpa! Marble Saga: Kororinpa sets you on a journey to help Anthony the Ant on his quest to find the Golden Sunflower. Only by navigating your customized marble through unique and treacherous mazes can you help Anthony reach his goal! It's up to you to balance the world (literally) with fun and intuitive controls available only on Wii. Marble Saga: Kororinpa is the follow-up to the original Kororinpa: Marble Mania for Wii. Utilizing the same world-turning technique as the first, you'll have to twist and turn the Wii Remote to control the environments around you. As you journey across 7 different worlds, you'll come across different gadgets to help you through your journey. Every one of the 150+ levels features fun challenges to conquer as you help Anthony roll his way to the Golden Sunflower. New features for Marble Saga: Kororinpa include increased customization elements in the game. Design your own marble to navigate more dangerous levels by assigning it certain attributes and techniques. If you really want to get into the game, use your own Mii to put yourself into the marble! Marble Saga: Kororinpa even features a brand-new level editor which lets you create your own unique stages. Through Wii Connect 24, you can share your masterpiece with friends and let them take on your own devious designs. [Hudson Entertainment]
Metascore:
74
User Score:
7.8
Drug Wars (2009)

Drug Wars (2009)

Platform: PC
March 17, 2009
In 3100 A.D., global warming has caused the sea level to rise and engulf the streets of Brooklyn. The land is gone, but society rebuilds the city on top of existing structures, connecting buildings through a network of sky bridges. As the upper class literally moves higher, law enforcement abandons the lower parts of the city, and its less-affluent inhabitants. To meet the upper city's demand for laborers, city leaders contract the Brooklyn Institute of Technology (B.I.T.) to clone a new working class. At the time, the B.I.T. Labs had made incredible advances in cloning; Neanderthals were chosen as the main focus of the research based on their physical resilience. The city's contract called for far more Neanderthal clones than were required, causing the excess and sub-standard Neo-Neanderthals to be discarded to the dregs of the city. The well established mob entity known as the Merchants of Brooklyn saw a lucrative opportunity here - use the bottom dwellers for high stakes fights to the death. It became the new sport of under-city kings. In MERCHANTS OF BROOKLYN, You take the role of an elite Neanderthal fighter with a taste for blood. Having had your arm unwillingly detached from your body courtesy of a chainsaw, your new prototype biomechanical arm transforms into different twisted and brutal weaponry to aid you in the slaughter. Your goal: escape from the under city and free your brethren to take over the upper utopian empire to do with as you please. [Paleo Entertainment]
Metascore:
35
User Score:
4.5
Bit.Trip Beat

Bit.Trip Beat

Platform: Wii
March 16, 2009
[WiiWare] BIT.TRIP BEAT is a rhythm game that brings retro action into the present, letting you use the motion-sensing Wii Remote controller to bounce beats. Retro visuals, classic game play, four-player multiplayer and an 8-bit soundtrack will get you in the zone and rock your world. The challenges are mighty, but if you can stay cool as the difficulty increases, you'll discover the beginnings of the BIT.TRIP saga. [Nintendo]
Metascore:
80
User Score:
8.3
Peggle

Peggle

Platform: Xbox 360
March 11, 2009
[Xbox Live Arcade] Experience the ball-bouncing, peg-busting phenomenon sweeping the globe, now on Xbox LIVE Arcade. Do you have what it takes to become a Peggle master? Conquer dozens of levels with 10 different characters, each with a unique special power. Face off against two to four friends in multiplayer play over Xbox LIVE, and test your skills with the Grand Master Challenges. Take your best shot. Game modes: Enjoy multiple game modes like Adventure and Quick Play. Multiple challenges: Play through more than 55 levels and 75 challenges, using 10 Peggle Masters with unique abilities. Multiplayer: Join with friends for 2-4 way multiplayer over Xbox LIVE plus local multiplayer, co-op, and party game modes. [PopCap Games]
Metascore:
89
User Score:
7.8
MadWorld

MadWorld

Platform: Wii
March 10, 2009
MadWorld is a game with highly stylized black and white graphics, over-the-top violence and visceral action which incorporating a layer of unexpected, irreverent comedy that makes the experience unlike any other. In MadWorld, Varrigan City is under siege by a terrorist group simply known as "The Organizers." They have isolated its citizens from the rest of the world, and have turned the city into a bizarre and twisted game show environment called "Death Watch." In this game of survival, all the citizens have become reluctant contestants and they are pitted against unknown enemies in the ultimate battle of life or death, where only the strongest will prevail. As Jack, players make their way through the various levels and environments in Varrigan City, crafting clever traps and using various weapons – chainsaws, street signs, and daggers, to name a few – to destroy enemies who threaten their lives. The Wii Remote and Nunchuk are used in a variety of motions that mimic the action on screen. Lively sports commentators call out moves as players execute them, and darkly comical finishing moves add a level of irreverence that contributes to the game's unique tone. Along with the exaggerated characters, upbeat pace and bloody visuals that define "Death Watch," a variety of crazed mini-games called "Blood Bath Challenges" are scattered among the levels, giving players a chance to upgrade weapons and increase overall scores. [Sega]
Metascore:
81
User Score:
8.6
Zubo

Zubo

Platform: DS
March 10, 2009
Zubo is a music-based rhythm-action game featuring a unique set of characters. Players enter the world of Zubalon to help the colorful and zany inhabitants, the Zubos, defeat an evil force which is bent on world domination. Players can befriend the Zubos they meet along the way, feed and nurture them, help them gain skills and strength, and assist them in their battles with the enemy, the dastardly Zombos. A key element to Zubo is music, which is intrinsic to Zubalon from its tuneful plant life through to its currency of musical notes. The player uses the music to drive the battles forward, synchronizing their stylus action and tapping in time with the musical beats to win. With 55 Zubos available to find and recruit to a player’s squad, plus a wealth of interactions and mini-games, and the world of Zubalon to explore, Zubo offers a rewarding Nintendo DS experience. [Electronic Arts]
Metascore:
75
User Score:
7.6
The Maw

The Maw

Platform: PC
March 9, 2009
The pinnacle of alien evolution, Maw is a cowardly fat blob concerned mostly with snacking and lounging. He can, however, absorb the traits of anything he eats, is virtually indestructible, and can grow to unlimited size. If he wasn't a danger to all life in the universe, he'd make the perfect pet. In this action/adventure game, he's the best friend of our hero Frank, and only by working together can Maw eat their way to freedom. The Maw was honored with the Audience Choice Award in the 2008 PAX-10 showcase of independent games, and is a finalist at this year's Independent Games Festival for Technical Excellence. [Twisted Pixel]
Metascore:
75
User Score:
7.2
Gradius ReBirth

Gradius ReBirth

Platform: Wii
March 9, 2009
[WiiWare] Blast your way through levels filled with alien spaceships and otherworldly creatures in this retro side-scrolling shooter. Pick your weapons carefully and upgrade them to create a devastating arsenal of space-aged weapons that will aid you in your challenging mission. Players can post their high scores to worldwide leader boards via Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection and see where they rank against all the other Gradius ReBirth players. Test your skills with Gradius ReBirth and see if you have what it takes to beat this action-packed arcade shooter. [Nintendo]
Metascore:
69
User Score:
7.9
Prince of Persia: Epilogue

Prince of Persia: Epilogue

Platform: Xbox 360
March 5, 2009
[Xbox Live Downloadable Content] As the Prince and Elika, chased by unleashed Evil forces, enter the Underground Palace area and play a brand new region in the fantastic universe of Prince of Persia. With an all new powers, fighting skills, and bosses you’re sure to enjoy hours of additional gameplay and continue the epic saga right from where you left off at the original Prince of Persia. New Region: The Underground Palace - A corrupted underground palace from which the Prince and Elika need to escape in a new epic journey. New Power: Energize - Reconstruct destroyed areas of the environment to create a path and rush through it before it vanishes. New High Pace: The new trap challenge - The Prince and Elika will face more cunning foes, more clever traps and level design, adding more to the difficulty level in over three hours of gameplay. New Attack: Sprinting Clash - A duel move that lets you or the enemy trigger a sprint attack, charging towards each other, clashing your weapons fiercely. New Unlockable Skins: From the early development of the game, the Prototype characters of the Prince and Elika. [Ubisoft]
Metascore:
67
User Score:
6.4
Prince of Persia: Epilogue

Prince of Persia: Epilogue

Platform: PlayStation 3
March 5, 2009
As the Prince and Elika, chased by unleashed Evil forces, enter the Underground Palace area and play a brand new region in the fantastic universe of Prince of Persia. With an all new powers, fighting skills, and bosses you’re sure to enjoy hours of additional gameplay and continue the epic saga right from where you left off at the original Prince of Persia. New Region: The Underground Palace - A corrupted underground palace from which the Prince and Elika need to escape in a new epic journey. New Power: Energize - Reconstruct destroyed areas of the environment to create a path and rush through it before it vanishes. New High Pace: The new trap challenge - The Prince and Elika will face more cunning foes, more clever traps and level design, adding more to the difficulty level in over three hours of gameplay. New Attack: Sprinting Clash - A duel move that lets you or the enemy trigger a sprint attack, charging towards each other, clashing your weapons fiercely. New Unlockable Skins: From the early development of the game, the Prototype characters of the Prince and Elika. [Ubisoft]
Metascore:
68
User Score:
4.0
Watchmen: The End Is Nigh

Watchmen: The End Is Nigh

Platform: PC
March 4, 2009
[Downloadable Game] The episodic videogame based on the Watchmen film is a mature action-brawler, which delves into the past of characters from the film and adds new challenges and rivalries for players. The game provides gamers with visceral superhero combat as urban vigilantes Rorschach and Nite Owl. A complex, multi-layered mystery adventure, the film "Watchmen" is set in an 1985 America in which costumed superheroes are part of the fabric of everyday society, and the "Doomsday Clock" – which charts the USA's tension with the Soviet Union – is permanently set at five minutes to midnight. When one of his former colleagues is murdered, the washed up but no less determined masked vigilante Rorschach sets out to uncover a plot to kill and discredit all past and present superheroes. As he reconnects with his former crime-fighting legion – a ragtag group of retired superheroes, only one of whom has true powers – Rorschach glimpses a wide-ranging and disturbing conspiracy with links to their shared past and catastrophic consequences for the future. Their mission is to watch over humanity . . . but who is watching the Watchmen? [Warner Bros. Interactive]
Metascore:
61
User Score:
6.9
Watchmen: The End Is Nigh

Watchmen: The End Is Nigh

Platform: PlayStation 3
March 4, 2009
[Playstation Network] The episodic videogame based on the Watchmen film is a mature action-brawler, which delves into the past of characters from the film and adds new challenges and rivalries for players. The game provides gamers with visceral superhero combat as urban vigilantes Rorschach and Nite Owl. A complex, multi-layered mystery adventure, the film "Watchmen" is set in an 1985 America in which costumed superheroes are part of the fabric of everyday society, and the "Doomsday Clock" – which charts the USA's tension with the Soviet Union – is permanently set at five minutes to midnight. When one of his former colleagues is murdered, the washed up but no less determined masked vigilante Rorschach sets out to uncover a plot to kill and discredit all past and present superheroes. As he reconnects with his former crime-fighting legion – a ragtag group of retired superheroes, only one of whom has true powers – Rorschach glimpses a wide-ranging and disturbing conspiracy with links to their shared past and catastrophic consequences for the future. Their mission is to watch over humanity . . . but who is watching the Watchmen? [Warner Bros. Interactive]
Metascore:
54
User Score:
6.8
Watchmen: The End Is Nigh

Watchmen: The End Is Nigh

Platform: Xbox 360
March 4, 2009
[Xbox Live Arcade] The lines between good and evil have been blurred and crime and terror run rampant in the streets. The alleys, rooftops, and sewers are crawling with criminals and brutal gangs. And now, Underboss - in a daring escape - has broken out of prison and is ruling with vicious darkness. The city is in need of saviors and only masked hero vigilantes answer the call. Answer the call in Watchmen: The End Is Nigh. Two Watchmen characters: Play either as Rorschach, a feral, street-wise fighter who can disarm enemies to use their own weapons against them, or Nite Owl, a refined fighter who uses martial arts expertise and high-tech wizardry. Fierce action: Fight and watch the blood fly through six chapters of gut-wrenching in-your-face action. Intense, visceral battles: Fight up to 20 enemies at the same time with bloody, street-fighting moves. Multiplayer: Clean up the streets with friends in split screen co-op multiplayer competition, or solo. [Deadline Games]
Metascore:
55
User Score:
7.8
Tom Clancy's HAWX

Tom Clancy's HAWX

Platform: PlayStation 3
March 3, 2009
Tom Clancy's HAWX (high-altitude warfare) promises to revolutionize the way players think about combat in the sky. The story begins in the year 2012. As the era of the nation-state draws quickly to a close, the rules of warfare evolve even more rapidly. More and more nations become increasingly dependent on private military companies (PMCs), elite mercenaries with a lax view of the law. The Reykjavik Accords further legitimize their existence by authorizing their right to serve in every aspect of military operations. While the benefits of such PMCs are apparent, growing concerns surrounding giving them too much power begin to mount. The Enhanced Reality System is the backbone of the HAWX flight experience: radars and incoming missile detection, anti-crash system, damage control system, tactical map and information relay, and weapons trajectory control. E.R.S. also allows players to issue orders to their squadron, making this system as iconic to HAWX as the Cross-Com system is to Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter. Players can ease into their flight missions and gain a level of comfort with the use of the assistance mode. Once employed, players can take full advantage of their technological support through the E.R.S and gain maximum piloting security. If the situation calls for the player to unleash the full potential of the aircraft, the assistance mode can be switched off and all safety features will be deactivated. For the first time ever in the air-combat genre, players can experience the entire solo campaign in four-player JUMP IN co-op mode. In PVP mode, players can challenge up to 15 friends in intense dogfighting sessions and find out who's the top gun. Winning players are rewarded with experience points and money to unlock more weapons. Players have the opportunity to take the throttle of over 50 of the world's most famous aircrafts, as well as being able to dogfight over realistic modern landscapes that have endured years of post-war trauma. [Ubisoft]
Metascore:
74
User Score:
7.8
Tom Clancy's HAWX

Tom Clancy's HAWX

Platform: Xbox 360
March 3, 2009
Tom Clancy's HAWX (high-altitude warfare) promises to revolutionize the way players think about combat in the sky. The story begins in the year 2012. As the era of the nation-state draws quickly to a close, the rules of warfare evolve even more rapidly. More and more nations become increasingly dependent on private military companies (PMCs), elite mercenaries with a lax view of the law. The Reykjavik Accords further legitimize their existence by authorizing their right to serve in every aspect of military operations. While the benefits of such PMCs are apparent, growing concerns surrounding giving them too much power begin to mount. The Enhanced Reality System is the backbone of the HAWX flight experience: radars and incoming missile detection, anti-crash system, damage control system, tactical map and information relay, and weapons trajectory control. E.R.S. also allows players to issue orders to their squadron, making this system as iconic to HAWX as the Cross-Com system is to Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter. Players can ease into their flight missions and gain a level of comfort with the use of the assistance mode. Once employed, players can take full advantage of their technological support through the E.R.S and gain maximum piloting security. If the situation calls for the player to unleash the full potential of the aircraft, the assistance mode can be switched off and all safety features will be deactivated. For the first time ever in the air-combat genre, players can experience the entire solo campaign in four-player JUMP IN co-op mode. In PVP mode, players can challenge up to 15 friends in intense dogfighting sessions and find out who's the top gun. Winning players are rewarded with experience points and money to unlock more weapons. Players have the opportunity to take the throttle of over 50 of the world's most famous aircrafts, as well as being able to dogfight over realistic modern landscapes that have endured years of post-war trauma. [Ubisoft]
Metascore:
72
User Score:
7.2
The King of Fighters '98 Ultimate Match

The King of Fighters '98 Ultimate Match

Platform: PlayStation 2
March 3, 2009
Originally created as a "dream match" for players to pit their favorite KOF characters against each other, KOF '98 UM takes that one step further by introducing new features such as new characters, game systems, game modes, stages and soundtracks not seen in the original. KOF '98 UM contains 64 characters, 10 of which are new to the Ultimate Match version. This is the most characters ever included in one KOF game.
Metascore:
73
User Score:
8.8
Six Flags Fun Park

Six Flags Fun Park

Platform: Wii
March 3, 2009
Calling gamers of all ages - Six Flags Fun Park welcomes the whole family into a virtual theme park filled with everyone's favorite games, all re-imagined within a colossal park environment that is sure to keep gamers challenged. Upon entrance to the game, players are tasked with quests that encourage them to explore the park's zany universe. After creating a unique custom character, Six Flags Fun Park patrons can test their skills, win prizes, and play against friends and family with 40 mini-games. [Brash Entertainment]
Metascore:
43
User Score:
7.1
Sonic and the Black Knight

Sonic and the Black Knight

Platform: Wii
March 3, 2009
Sonic and the Black Knight is a Wii-exclusive adventure. Part of the storybook series of games that began with Sonic and the Secret Rings, this title brings Sonic into the world of Arthurian legend and offers the world's most famous blue hedgehog the chance to become a knight. Using the unique Wii control system, this game takes advantage of both the Wii Remote and the Nunchuk to offer an interactive experience that Sonic fans will love. Created by Sonic Team in Japan, this innovative game takes Sonic into a medieval world and arms him with a sword to aid in his effort to save the day. Sonic and the Black Knight hosts an irresistible cast of characters and teaches Sonic fans what it takes to be a true hero and the ultimate knight. With a series of missions set in stunning Arthurian-inspired locations, Sonic and the Black Knight promises a fast-paced adventure. [Sega]
Metascore:
54
User Score:
7.1
Peggle: Dual Shot

Peggle: Dual Shot

Platform: DS
February 27, 2009
Shoot and clear the orange pegs from 120 levels spanning two full Adventure modes including 10 all-new levels in the exclusive Bonus Underground. Wield 11 Magic Powers, score amazing style shots, and collect valuable gems and power-ups in the Bonus Underground. And the action doesn’t stop there - take your best shot in Multiplayer Duel and Quick Play modes, then put your skills to the ultimate test with 90 challenges. [PopCap Games]
Metascore:
84
User Score:
7.9
Killzone 2

Killzone 2

Platform: PlayStation 3
February 27, 2009
Two years after the Helghast assault on Vekta, the ISA is taking the fight to the enemy's home world of Helghan. The ISA goal is direct: capture the Helghast leader, Emperor Visari, and bring the Helghast war machine to a halt. Assuming the role of Sev, a battle-hardened veteran and a member of the special forces unit known as the Legion, players lead a group of highly trained soldiers on a mission to take out the Helghast threat. For Sev and his squad, the invasion of Helghan is just the beginning. Tasked with securing Pyrrhus, the Capital City, the team quickly discovers that the Helghast are a formidable enemy on their home planet. Not only have they adjusted to the planet's hostile conditions, they have also harnessed a source of power they can now use against the ISA. Sev discovers his squad isn't just fighting enemy forces – their fiercest opponent may be the planet itself. [Sony]
Metascore:
91
User Score:
8.1
Eat Lead: The Return of Matt Hazard

Eat Lead: The Return of Matt Hazard

Platform: PlayStation 3
February 26, 2009
In Eat Lead: The Return of Matt Hazard, videogame action hero Matt Hazard gets his chance to prove once and for all that he is the king of shooters when the new owner of mega game publisher, Marathon Megasoft, gives Matt his comeback role starring in a new title for next-gen consoles that pits him against all of his memorable foes from videogames past. In the world of Eat Lead, however, everything stops being a game and becomes reality when it is clear that someone is using the new game to bring about Matt’s death once and for all. With only the mysterious QA to help him, Matt must fight against a legion of Marathon Megasoft catalogue of videogame characters to keep it from being Game Over forever. Eat Lead pays homage to the games of yesteryear with a menagerie of classic enemies such as zombies, space marines, cowboys, genetically mutated super snipers, and more and an expansive level environment design that reflects videogame history in a next-gen package. The game fires on all cylinders with explosive artillery and combat moves to help gamers escape from a variety of predicaments including radically-changing environments during gameplay via hack effects Hazard's nemesis uses by altering the game’s code on the fly. Throughout the adventure, players utilize a strategic cover system dubbed point and cover, upgradeable weapons and different interactive melee moves to attack and outsmart foes. [D3Publisher]
Metascore:
51
User Score:
6.0
Eat Lead: The Return of Matt Hazard

Eat Lead: The Return of Matt Hazard

Platform: Xbox 360
February 26, 2009
In Eat Lead: The Return of Matt Hazard, videogame action hero Matt Hazard gets his chance to prove once and for all that he is the king of shooters when the new owner of mega game publisher, Marathon Megasoft, gives Matt his comeback role starring in a new title for next-gen consoles that pits him against all of his memorable foes from videogames past. In the world of Eat Lead, however, everything stops being a game and becomes reality when it is clear that someone is using the new game to bring about Matt’s death once and for all. With only the mysterious QA to help him, Matt must fight against a legion of Marathon Megasoft catalogue of videogame characters to keep it from being Game Over forever. Eat Lead pays homage to the games of yesteryear with a menagerie of classic enemies such as zombies, space marines, cowboys, genetically mutated super snipers, and more and an expansive level environment design that reflects videogame history in a next-gen package. The game fires on all cylinders with explosive artillery and combat moves to help gamers escape from a variety of predicaments including radically-changing environments during gameplay via hack effects Hazard's nemesis uses by altering the game’s code on the fly. Throughout the adventure, players will utilize a strategic cover system dubbed point and cover, upgradeable weapons and different interactive melee moves to attack and outsmart foes. [D3Publisher]
Metascore:
53
User Score:
7.0
Exit 2

Exit 2

Platform: Xbox 360
February 25, 2009
[Xbox Live Arcade] Mr. ESC, the escape artist, is back in Exit 2, and this time he is rescuing people all over the world before time runs out. To escape safely, use your head to find a route and work with people you rescue to overcome tricky obstacles. Compete for the fastest clear time and aim to become the world's top escape artist. Exit 2 is the definitive escape puzzle game. More characters and excitement: Rescue people from danger all over the world, and welcome "Macho" and "Dog" as new companions, joining those from the previous game. More challenges: Over 10 new challenges have been added, increasing the puzzle and action elements even further. Massive gameplay: This massive game consists of 240 stages with an additional 30 original Xbox 360® stages available for download. [Taito Corporation]
Metascore:
65
User Score:
tbd
ShellShock 2: Blood Trails

ShellShock 2: Blood Trails

Platform: PlayStation 3
February 24, 2009
ShellShock 2: Blood Trails is a violent, first-person, survival horror game set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War. Gameplay centers on the use of psychological horror and fear, relying on the power of suggestion, mood, tension and foreshadowing - implying the notion of danger, potential danger, imminent danger, and horrifying acts that have or are implied to have occurred or will come to pass. On course for war torn Vietnam, a plane carrying a top-secret cargo known only as Whiteknight is lost over the uncharted jungles of Cambodia. The special ops squad sent in to retrieve it disappear wtihout trace. Until, a month later, one of them walks out. Something in the darkness has driven him insane... Something from the darkness has followed him out. [Eidos Interactive]
Metascore:
35
User Score:
4.7
ShellShock 2: Blood Trails

ShellShock 2: Blood Trails

Platform: Xbox 360
February 24, 2009
ShellShock 2: Blood Trails is a violent, first-person, survival horror game set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War. Gameplay centers on the use of psychological horror and fear, relying on the power of suggestion, mood, tension and foreshadowing - implying the notion of danger, potential danger, imminent danger, and horrifying acts that have or are implied to have occurred or will come to pass. On course for war torn Vietnam, a plane carrying a top-secret cargo known only as Whiteknight is lost over the uncharted jungles of Cambodia. The special ops squad sent in to retrieve it disappear wtihout trace. Until, a month later, one of them walks out. Something in the darkness has driven him insane... Something from the darkness has followed him out. [Eidos Interactive]
Metascore:
30
User Score:
5.7
50 Cent: Blood on the Sand

50 Cent: Blood on the Sand

Platform: PlayStation 3
February 24, 2009
After performing a sold-out concert in a fictional war-torn country, 50 Cent and the G-Unit are robbed of their cash and paid in kind with a priceless diamond encrusted skull, which is subsequently stolen by the local crime-lord’s gang. Determined to collect his payment and enact revenge on the gangsters foolish enough to disrespect him, 50 Cent sets out to get rich or die trying. 50 Cent: Blood on the Sand features intense third-person action/shooter gameplay, an intuitive cover system, drop in and drop out online multiplayer co-op, merciless melee counter-kills and a soundtrack that combines 50 Cent’s greatest hits with 18 exclusive new tracks. 50 Cent: Blood on the Sand puts players in control of their own virtual action film by blending visuals from the Unreal 3 game engine technology with an over-the-top story and voiceover work by 50 Cent and the G-Unit’s Tony Yayo, Lloyd Banks, and DJ Whoo Kid. [THQ]
Metascore:
72
User Score:
6.8
50 Cent: Blood on the Sand

50 Cent: Blood on the Sand

Platform: Xbox 360
February 24, 2009
After performing a sold-out concert in a fictional war-torn country, 50 Cent and the G-Unit are robbed of their cash and paid in kind with a priceless diamond encrusted skull, which is subsequently stolen by the local crime-lord’s gang. Determined to collect his payment and enact revenge on the gangsters foolish enough to disrespect him, 50 Cent sets out to get rich or die trying. 50 Cent: Blood on the Sand features intense third-person action/shooter gameplay, an intuitive cover system, drop in and drop out online multiplayer co-op, merciless melee counter-kills and a soundtrack that combines 50 Cent’s greatest hits with 18 exclusive new tracks. 50 Cent: Blood on the Sand puts players in control of their own virtual action film by blending visuals from the Unreal 3 game engine technology with an over-the-top story and voiceover work by 50 Cent and the G-Unit’s Tony Yayo, Lloyd Banks, and DJ Whoo Kid. [THQ]
Metascore:
71
User Score:
6.3
Onslaught

Onslaught

Platform: Wii
February 23, 2009
[WiiWare] Onslaught is a FPS that puts you in the middle of a futuristic war between humans and insectoid aliens. You become part of the Elite Interstellar Strike Force, fighting against an overwhelming onslaught of alien lifeforms. Enjoy the rush of mowing down wave after wave of aliens with machine guns, grenades, and more. Feel your heart pound as you battle gigantic boss aliens. Besides the normal game, Onslaught includes modes that let you play with rivals from around the world using Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. Team up with up to 3 other people in Free Battle Mode. Or compete on special maps to see who can get the most points by killing enemies before time runs out in Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection Ranking Battle Mode. [Nintendo]
Metascore:
66
User Score:
7.7
Noby Noby Boy

Noby Noby Boy

Platform: PlayStation 3
February 19, 2009
[Playstation Network] The latest game from Katamari Damacy creator Keita Takahashi, NOBY NOBY BOY lets players expand their imaginations as they stretch a creature named BOY to incredible lengths across the playground-like planets of the solar system. Offering a unique play experience from one of the video game industry's most creative minds, NOBY NOBY BOY gives players complete freedom to create gameplay suited to their tastes. As BOY, players can eat and spit out nearly everything they encounter in the game, from people and animals to trees and buildings, helping them to gain length as they stretch their elongated body. Players can control BOY’s front and back ends using the Playstation 3 controller's two analog sticks, allowing for detailed movements such as tying themselves into knots or threading BOY through holes in the environment. NOBY NOBY BOY allows players to record video footage as they play and upload it directly to YouTube for easy viewing. Delivering a new and innovate approach to online gaming, NOBY NOBY BOY lets players collaborate to unlock new game stages. As players stretch BOY in their individual play sessions, the lengths to which they grow are uploaded to a persistent character known as GIRL, who grows at the same rate as the combined length of all the players in the world. GIRL starts at Earth and expands through the solar system as more games are played and BOYs from all players continue to grow. When GIRL reaches a new milestone in the solar system, these areas are unlocked as playable stages in the game for everyone around the world. [Namco Bandai Games]
Metascore:
75
User Score:
7.1
Street Fighter IV

Street Fighter IV

Platform: PlayStation 3
February 17, 2009
Street Fighter IV features a mix of returning favourites such as Ryu, Ken, Chun-Li and Guile along with new characters created exclusively for this game such as Crimson Viper, Abel, El Fuerte, and Rufus. Characters and environments are rendered in high definition 3D, while the game is played in the classic Street Fighter 2D perspective with additional 3D camera flourishes. Six-button controls for the game return, with a host of new special moves and features integrated into the input system. Street Fighter IV also incorporates state of the art online match making and worldwide online gameplay. Mixing classic genre-defining game mechanics the franchise is known and loved for with all-new, never-before-seen gameplay systems, Street Fighter IV brings a brand new fighting game to fans the world over. With the inclusion of Capcom's latest advancements in new generation technology, Street Fighter IV promises to deliver an extraordinary experience that will re-introduce the world to the time-honoured art of virtual martial arts. New special moves that go beyond any Street Fighter fan's wildest imagination, including Focus attacks, Super Combos, and the revenged-fueled Ultra Combo system. Classic Street Fighter characters recreated for a new generation of gamers, including the original cast of Street Fighter II. New brawlers: female super-spy Crimson Viper, lucha libre wrestler El Fuerte, mixed martial artist Abel and more. New gameplay elements provide new challenges for both newcomers and the most seasoned Street Fighter pro. Online gameplay features, including instantaneous online challenges, versus mode, tournament mode, and world wide online gameplay. [Capcom]
Metascore:
94
User Score:
7.4
Street Fighter IV

Street Fighter IV

Platform: Xbox 360
February 17, 2009
Street Fighter IV features a mix of returning favourites such as Ryu, Ken, Chun-Li and Guile along with new characters created exclusively for this game such as Crimson Viper, Abel, El Fuerte, and Rufus. Characters and environments are rendered in high definition 3D, while the game is played in the classic Street Fighter 2D perspective with additional 3D camera flourishes. Six-button controls for the game return, with a host of new special moves and features integrated into the input system. Street Fighter IV also incorporates state of the art online match making and worldwide online gameplay. Mixing classic genre-defining game mechanics the franchise is known and loved for with all-new, never-before-seen gameplay systems, Street Fighter IV brings a brand new fighting game to fans the world over. With the inclusion of Capcom's latest advancements in new generation technology, Street Fighter IV promises to deliver an extraordinary experience that will re-introduce the world to the time-honoured art of virtual martial arts. New special moves that go beyond any Street Fighter fan's wildest imagination, including Focus attacks, Super Combos, and the revenged-fueled Ultra Combo system. Classic Street Fighter characters recreated for a new generation of gamers, including the original cast of Street Fighter II. New brawlers: female super-spy Crimson Viper, lucha libre wrestler El Fuerte, mixed martial artist Abel and more. New gameplay elements provide new challenges for both newcomers and the most seasoned Street Fighter pro. Online gameplay features, including instantaneous online challenges, versus mode, tournament mode, and world wide online gameplay. [Capcom]
Metascore:
93
User Score:
7.3
Prinny: Can I Really Be the Hero?

Prinny: Can I Really Be the Hero?

Platform: PSP
February 17, 2009
Prinny: Can I Really Be the Hero? is a side-scrolling action game and will have you slashing your way through various Netherworlds.
Metascore:
72
User Score:
8.4
Evasive Space

Evasive Space

Platform: Wii
February 16, 2009
[WiiWare] [WiiWare] Twinkle, twinkle, little star, how I wonder WHERE you are. The universe is going dark and it's up to you Konki, Stellar Guardian, to put things right. Dr. Dark Matter and his roving band of space thieves have stolen many of the Constellation Stones that make up the heavens. Some stones have been sold to unscrupulous space types while others were lost during the getaway. Whatever the situation, you must come through. Suit-up, power-up, and live up to the task at hand. Recover the lost Constellation Stones and once again bring light to the night sky. [High Votage Software]
Metascore:
59
User Score:
tbd
ShellShock 2: Blood Trails

ShellShock 2: Blood Trails

Platform: PC
February 13, 2009
ShellShock 2: Blood Trails is a violent, first-person, survival horror game set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War. Gameplay centers on the use of psychological horror and fear, relying on the power of suggestion, mood, tension and foreshadowing - implying the notion of danger, potential danger, imminent danger, and horrifying acts that have or are implied to have occurred or will come to pass. On course for war torn Vietnam, a plane carrying a top-secret cargo known only as Whiteknight is lost over the uncharted jungles of Cambodia. The special ops squad sent in to retrieve it disappear wtihout trace. Until, a month later, one of them walks out. Something in the darkness has driven him insane... Something from the darkness has followed him out. [Eidos Interactive]
Metascore:
40
User Score:
5.3
Retro Game Challenge

Retro Game Challenge

Platform: DS
February 10, 2009
Retro Game Challenge is a throwback to the 1980’s era of video games. Based on the popular Japanese GAME CENTER CX TV series, this title reinvents how classic games are played by having the player complete mini challenges in a wide-variety of games, reminiscent of all of your favorites from the 80s. With in-game magazines offering cheat codes and fake news stories, Retro Game Challenge is an original experience for both the seasoned gamer looking for 80s nostalgia or a player experiencing classic 8- bit game play for the first time. [XSEED Games]
Metascore:
77
User Score:
7.1
LocoRoco 2

LocoRoco 2

Platform: PSP
February 10, 2009
The LocoRoco are in danger again, the evil Moja have returned and this time they've brought with them a terrible song that sucks the life out of living things! The LocoRoco must once again save their planet - this time by making lots of sweet music. LocoRoco 2 is easy to play, instantly addictive and guaranteed to make you feel all warm and fuzzy while you hum along to the soundtrack! Explore 25 new stages, including hidden challenges, and meet a colourful cast of new characters. Enhance your LocoRoco through music and song, learning new actions to overcome the Moja. Perform new actions such as climbing inside shells to destroy thorns, jumping from grass blade to grass blade and swimming underwater. Expand your fun with six new mini games, including an Ad-hoc four player game. [Sony]
Metascore:
85
User Score:
8.6
Onechanbara: Bikini Zombie Slayers

Onechanbara: Bikini Zombie Slayers

Platform: Wii
February 10, 2009
In Onechanbara: Bikini Zombie Slayers, Aya is out to find the meaning of her IMICHI ancestors, even if it leads to the answer she does not wish for. Players can master the sword to take full advantage of the Wii Remote motion controls by slashing, swinging and thrusting into zombie enemy hordes. Play as either sister Aya or Saki in single player or with a friend in Co-Op Mode and utilize each of their unique fighting styles and set of moves. Get too much blood on either sister and be driven into Rage Mode and gain more power and agility to destroy enemies faster and deadlier. Every person met and enemy battled gets the sisters closer to understanding who or what is behind the zombie outbreak and putting an end to it. [D3Publisher of America]
Metascore:
55
User Score:
8.0
Onechanbara: Bikini Samurai Squad

Onechanbara: Bikini Samurai Squad

Platform: Xbox 360
February 10, 2009
Killer Combat System - Each character has a variety of moves that players can utilize to combat enemies in the air, on the ground, at a distance, when surrounded or even to evade attacks. Players can change weapon attacks: for example, switching between one katana for precision work, or use two katanas to take out large crowds of enemies. Adrenaline Filled Rage Mode - Unleash the hidden power inside of Aya and Saki, as players go into rage mode when covered in too much blood to gain more power and more agility to destroy enemies faster. But if soaked in blood for too long, the added adrenaline will deplete the player’s health. Co-op Play - Invite a friend to join in the fight with Co-Op mode to rid the city of zombie infestation. Multiple Gameplay Modes - Zombie slayers will experience the main storyline through multiple stages with danger lurking around every corner in Story mode; replay favorite levels in Free Play mode; kill as many zombies as possible before their health runs out in Survival mode, embark on more than 40 harrowing quests in Quest mode and more. Dress-Up Mode - Unlock and acquire a variety of items to use in Dress-up mode to style out the sisters with sexy clothing, flashy accessories, hot hairstyles and more. After selecting an outfit combination, players can name the combinations, save them, then use the outfits in-game. Drive-and-Slash - Play as Aya and with the wind in your hair, dismember zombies at slow or full-speed while riding a tricked-out motorcycle in select levels. [D3Publiser of America]
Metascore:
39
User Score:
6.4
The House of the Dead: Overkill

The House of the Dead: Overkill

Platform: Wii
February 10, 2009
The House of the Dead: Overkill charges you with mowing down waves of infected, blood-thirsty zombies in a last-ditch effort to survive Bayou City and uncover the horrific truth behind the origins of The House of the Dead. A pulp-style take on the classic SEGA light-gun shoot 'em up franchise. Back when the famous Agent G was still fresh out of the academy, he teamed up with hard-boiled bad-ass Agent Washington to investigate stories of mysterious disappearances in small-town Louisiana. Little did they know what blood-soaked mutant horror would await them in the streets and swamps of Bayou City. Pulp Funk Horror - Zombie cool, one of the most popular shooter classics injected with a whole new retro b-movie look. An utterly in-your-face zombie-dismembering blast. Non-stop light-gun style action on Wii, blow apart zombies for high-score thrills. Co-op action on Wii. Bring a friend and play the game as intended in your own buddy action movie as two of the meanest mofos in video gaming. Relentless, gore-drenched, over-the-top action - Only the coolest, most cold-hearted agent’s going to keep his head against the zombie flood. Use "Slow-Mofo Time" to make the perfect head-popping shot and "Evil Eye" to spot moments of opportunity that’ll send the whole environment up in flames. Wiimote reactions. Get knee-deep in the dead with motion-sensitive Wii-controls. Shuck a shotgun and when the zombies get too close, pistol whip jaws off or cave some heads in with the stock of your pump-action - all in stomach-churning close-up. [Sega]
Metascore:
78
User Score:
8.6
F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin

F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin

Platform: PC
February 10, 2009
The sequel to F.E.A.R. continues the original game's spine-tingling supernatural suspense story of an escalating paranormal crisis that threatens to destroy a major American city. At the center of the calamity is the mysterious Alma, whose rage against those who wronged her triggered a chain of events that have spiraled completely out of control. Now that she has free reign, the consequences will be unimaginable. [Warner Bros.]
Metascore:
79
User Score:
7.7
F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin

F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin

Platform: Xbox 360
February 10, 2009
The sequel to F.E.A.R. continues the original game's spine-tingling supernatural suspense story of an escalating paranormal crisis that threatens to destroy a major American city. At the center of the calamity is the mysterious Alma, whose rage against those who wronged her triggered a chain of events that have spiraled completely out of control. Now that she has free reign, the consequences will be unimaginable. [Warner Bros.]
Metascore:
77
User Score:
8.0
F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin

F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin

Platform: PlayStation 3
February 10, 2009
The sequel to F.E.A.R. continues the original game's spine-tingling supernatural suspense story of an escalating paranormal crisis that threatens to destroy a major American city. At the center of the calamity is the mysterious Alma, whose rage against those who wronged her triggered a chain of events that have spiraled completely out of control. Now that she has free reign, the consequences will be unimaginable. [Warner Bros.]
Metascore:
79
User Score:
8.0
X-Blades

X-Blades

Platform: PC
February 9, 2009
In the game, players control an anime-style heroine that destroys anything in her path using guns, blades, magic, and a healthy dose of cinematic flair. X-Blades features a special combination of cinematic style, beautiful animation, and relentless, high speed gameplay. Players assume the role of Ayumi, a stunningly seductive yet tenacious heroine who battles enemies with her pistol blades, acrobatic ability, and magic spells. With full anime cut scenes, the story unfolds revealing demonic powers and spectacular landscapes, all ripe for exploration and battles. [SouthPeak Interactive]
Metascore:
54
User Score:
6.3
Deadly Creatures

Deadly Creatures

Platform: Wii
February 9, 2009
Deadly Creatures is a 3rd person action thriller set amidst a desert world of venomous terror, built exclusively for the Nintendo Wii. Players control an armored Scorpion and a deadly Tarantula as they fight for survival against Gila monsters, lizards, black widows and many more terrifying creatures. Featuring intuitive motion controls and a deep combo-based combat system, Deadly Creatures is a thrilling mix of brutal creature-crushing action and suspenseful exploration of vast 360 degree desert and man-made environments. Gamers explore this darkly compelling story through the eyes of two of the world’s most deadly creatures. [THQ]
Metascore:
72
User Score:
8.4
LIT

LIT

Platform: Wii
February 9, 2009
[WiiWare] LIT is a 3D horror action puzzler that follows Jake, a typical, apathetic, slightly emo teenager, who's trapped in his high school when it's overrun by dark creatures. Players must guide Jake through 30 classrooms, using the available light sources to create paths to each exit. The goal is to reunite Jake with his girlfriend Rachael, who’s also trapped in the school and calls Jake from time to time on the school’s phone system. Stay in the light and Jake’s safe. Step into the darkness and he’s pulled under. In addition to light puzzling, the game features 5 boss battles against dark faculty members, an unlockable challenge mode, multiple endings, level select mode, and a second playable character. [WayForward]
Metascore:
74
User Score:
7.5
X-Blades

X-Blades

Platform: PlayStation 3
February 6, 2009
In the game, players control an anime-style heroine that destroys anything in her path using guns, blades, magic, and a healthy dose of cinematic flair. X-Blades features a special combination of cinematic style, beautiful animation, and relentless, high speed gameplay. Players assume the role of Ayumi, a stunningly seductive yet tenacious heroine who battles enemies with her pistol blades, acrobatic ability, and magic spells. With full anime cut scenes, the story unfolds revealing demonic powers and spectacular landscapes, all ripe for exploration and battles. [SouthPeak Interactive]
Metascore:
50
User Score:
5.9
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