Despite the changes made to simplify Dust Strikers' core fighting engine, the combo system is surprisingly comprehensive.

It's difficult to dismiss the overlying cuteness and simple-but-solid gameplay, which continues to put the series on the top tier of portable RPGs.

Crosses the line that separates challenging from cheap. Charismatic and brazen to a fault, it is something of a return to form, but denies the gamer an honest challenge and the eye-opening lack of balance results in a sometimes-electrifying game that isn't especially fun to play.

The polish wears bit thin in the control department, but soccer fans will find plenty of meat to chew on here.

Like its namesake color, Black is bold in its simplicity, an elemental force that makes a strong, singular statement: It intends to be the most adrenaline-pumping, testosterone-infused shooter ever. And in that regard, it succeeds.

Graphical foibles aside, The Witcher demonstrates the growing creative energy of European game designers, who continue to take chances with ever more innovative games, even as American developers obsess over the next "Halo."

If anything, Sing and Dance is a good idea on paper, but absolutely flawed in its execution. Arrows are laid side-by-side, making the more difficult patterns a pain to read correctly, and having to focus on scrolling arrows while watching your singing pattern (to make sure the game is recognizing it correctly) is incredibly counter-intuitive.

It may not be the flashiest or most technically astute, but it's entertaining, well-suited for portable gaming -- something the competition still hasn't been able to figure out.

Sure, it does have some taxing level-design problems, but its presentation and sheer wackiness and randomness saves it from being just another statistic.

The ambiance and atmosphere are usually enough all by themselves to suck you in; but never quite enough to make you ignore the hundred little things that matter.

Flawed, but still a good, fun dirt bike game.

Adds a bit of new life to an already great game even if there isn't enough new to make the expansion pack truly exceptional.

The ambiance and atmosphere are usually enough all by themselves to suck you in; but never quite enough to make you ignore the hundred little things that matter.

What I'm really saying is, Fred Willard is in this game. He's the best thing about this game. That isn't a huge knock, actually -- Fred Willard is pretty much the greatest ever. But this game really relies, knowingly, on Fred Willard. The experience is Fred Willard. Without Fred Willard, this is a slightly subpar game.

And that map editor -- when United maintains its stability -- is undoubtedly the game's marquee feature.

An entertaining adventure that boasts impressive production values, especially given its origins in a tiny development house. Its greatest failing is that it stands uneasily on the line between arcade-action and console-adventure.

EA put a great deal of effort in capturing the emotional aspect of college football, but it mostly goes to waste because the Momentum Meter fails to accurately translate that energy and how it can impact what happens on the field.

It's difficult to dismiss the overlying cuteness and simple-but-solid gameplay, which continues to put the series on the top tier of portable RPGs.

In summary it's safe to say it's an above-average game and is certainly playable, but remains some way short of the best the genre has to offer.

More than enough fun to last through the main story -- especially if you bring a couple friends -- but whether you'll be returning to it again and again over the course of months is dependent largely on your superhero obsession and tolerance for repetition.

While it's always nice to have a good rhythm game on the go, PaRappa on PSP is still a serious value proposition at $30. There are plenty of extra remixes to download and play (about half of which are decent), but with essentially six levels it's still a more flimsy package than current gamers are accustomed to.

Control issues aside, Battlestations: Midway is a fun game if you're into strategy titles. Just throwing mad amounts of units at each new problem really doesn't work here, since you have finite resources and no unit is really impervious to attack from any other unit.

In spite of all these problems and all the times I threw my controller at the screen while yelling at the fellow Pevensie children for being such dolts, I kept coming back to play. It is engaging, and in parts quite enjoyable.

Though it certainly isn't without its flaws, Defiance stands as a solid title that fans of "Devil May Cry" and even the recent "Castlevania: Lament of Innocence" should have plenty of fun with.

A game that is certainly violent, absolutely profane, but also acceptably playable and filled with enough replay value and customization to warrant a purchase as opposed to a rental. But in terms of sheer polish and finesse, "Def Jam Fight for New York" is still the standard bearer against which these sorts of games should be judged.

While the action can be uneven -- though never bad -- creativity and charm carry the game to a higher level. The humor will get you through the slow levels, the authentic voices and writing will satisfy your fanatcism, and the cameos... will keep you entertained.

This isn't to say that ATV Offroad Fury 4 is bad, it's just that its handheld sibling is a little more imaginative.

Get Even's cities are simple and fairly nondescript, but the game strikes a smart presentational tone, juxtaposing serious-sounding tunes with the obviously bizarre happenings, not to mention visual words of praise ("Cool!") and amusing human radio transmissions ("Our forces are not equipped to take on 2D targets!"). Frustratingly, it comes at a higher cost than expected, as the initial $5 purchase delivers but a single three-stage mission (about 15 minutes of play).

Given the sheer amount of content and the variety of options -- and given that the gameplay is fun in small bursts -- you have to admit that Gravity Crash can make a pretty strong bang-for-the-buck argument.

The 3rd Birthday's emphasis on fast-paced combat and the Overdive mechanic help the game overcome its more abstract flaws (despite some occasional repetition). Still, for old fans of Parasite Eve, the game's treatment of its heroine and legacy is frustrating.

Lost Planet's sophomore effort attempts to improve on past faults while shifting direction into an entirely new territory, but the overall feeling is muted. The game can be an enjoyable, fun adventure, but only if you're willing to share the experience with friends (or strangers).

Yes, FIFA is the superior offering this year -- but it's a lot closer than you might initially think. If Takatsuka's team tackles the animation issues and online hiccups next year like they addressed the graphics, presentation, and Master League this year, we could have a 2010 videogame footballing derby worthy of Premier League titans Liverpool and Man United.

One thing that ModNation PSP does have going for it over its big brother is that its loading times are generally far shorter. But beyond that, it's inferior in every way.

It's got a few design holes, but in part because of those, Lucidity presents a type of game you don't see very often.

The multiplayer component isn't likely to keep you occupied for long, but there's more than enough single-player content -- especially if you can take advantage of the Retribution Connect extras -- to warrant a purchase. Resistance fans won't be disappointed and newcomers to the franchise will find a very competent portable shooter in Retribution.

Seriously, though -- for Kingdom Hearts fans who missed out on COM the first time, this is definitely the best way to play it. While the new stuff is small (a few so-so minigames in Hundred Acre Wood, additional voice acting from the Sixth Sense kid, etc.), my memory of Chain of Memories hasn't changed: It's a pleasant little title that reminds me how much I want Kingdom Hearts 3.

It's a capable superhero action game that demonstrates that the team is getting better at crafting a Spider-Man game, but like most comic-licensed properties there is still room for improvement.

The events aren't anything mind-blowing, but they're all competent and solid enough to keep me coming back to improve my last run.

It's a capable superhero action game that demonstrates that the team is getting better at crafting a Spider-Man game, but like most comic-licensed properties there is still room for improvement.

Even with its numerous imperfections, Blood Stone easily ranks as 007's strongest showing in a videogame since the original GoldenEye. Just try to keep some aspirin handy for the inevitable cellphone-induced headaches.

As an adventure game, UNS' pacing feels slow and forced, with the best parts (the bosses) at the end of a chapter. As a fighting game, UNS defies conventions by using an atypical third-person approach, but its execution feels a bit loose and sloppy. The beautiful visuals may attract a new audience outside of the Naruto brand -- but not many devout followers.

It's notable for not being just another dungeon- or trap-making game like other villain-centric games that would probably be better anyway. It's a collection of arcade sensibilities mixed with imaginative design you don't see too often anymore, outside of indie developer circles.

Sadly, once the conceptual veneer peels away, you'll be left only with hollow rattle of an empty aerosol can.

I would've liked to have seen more pizzazz and personality from the actual gameplay and questions (instead of just the silly avatars), and the game flow could've been streamlined considerably (I don't need between-round updates on the betting tendencies of A.I. opponents), but Wits & Wagers is a loose and enjoyable experience that fills a necessary gap on Xbox Live Arcade without significant monetary -- or mental -- investment.

A "solid" game: It works great on a technical level, and presents enough challenge to engage veteran players, but also enough on-screen direction and help to make it accessible to the game's younger audience -- it's just too long.

Even with its numerous imperfections, Blood Stone easily ranks as 007's strongest showing in a videogame since the original GoldenEye. Just try to keep some aspirin handy for the inevitable cellphone-induced headaches.

It doesn't feel like Guitar Hero. Sure, you get to press buttons in rhythm and watch an avatar bounce around the screen...but some major components are lost because of the platform. The DS certainly doesn't look or remotely feel like a guitar, and the songs -- though high quality -- just don't sound quite as awesome popping out over the system's tiny speakers.

Where Overkill will truly be divisive is in the narrative: some people will love the nonsensical, fast-paced story. But, with its constant stream of expletives and toilet humor, it may turn just as many people away. And as purposefully offensive as it is, I still enjoyed the game. The dialogue is strained, and the barrage of f-bombs is played out by the second level, but there are several genuinely funny moments.

Objectively, this first Watchmen episode is just an average brawler that looks fantastic at times, and has some good voice acting to boot.

It's kind of disappointing that a sequel that finally upgrades its character sprites would at the same time not move anything else up a level. And I would like more people to play and enjoy Disgaea games, because the fact is everyone is getting the best sequel until "Disgaea 5" comes out (probably). But it's a step forward that could have, for once, been a leap.

It's got a few design holes, but in part because of those, Lucidity presents a type of game you don't see very often.

At 800 Wii Points, some may not want to jump in, especially since Super Star Soldier on Virtual Console is 600 Points -- a "real" full-length shooter -- and the layout of its 2-Minute Mode level more or less provided the basis for Star Soldier R's first stage

Aficionados need not hesitate -- The Broken Bond presents the Naruto franchise in a largely engaging manner, with plenty to see and do in the campaign and via Xbox Live. It's a less definite prospect for newcomers, though, as the fan service and familiar scenarios go a long way toward masking the frustrations and limitations found within.

Considering the low price, multiple game modes, challenging single-player, level editor, and funky art style, Gravity Crash is nothing to give the high hat to.

So even though I had my share of frustrations playing through Monster Hunter, I can finally see what the big deal is...in Japan, at least.

If you can get past the controller and don't mind sustaining permanent hand injuries, Decades is a fun, short rhythm game.

These are wonderful, terrible songs, all, and the SingStar team has selected a great cross-section of music.

Savage 2 isn't perfect -- squads are semirandomized smatterings of players unable to communicate or coordinate fluidly as of this writing, and the game can be overwhelming to new players -- but its ambition is matched only by the amount of fun you'll have playing.

It's an enjoyable fighter even with its flaws, and it's a pleasing sidestep from Arc's edgy world of "Guilty Gear."

Still, the battle improvements, presentation polish, and overall cheeky vibe keep the single-player option well worth playing.

But even though the action can turn into a not-so satisfying grind (which really does kind of hurt the game's staying power), it's hard to ignore Kenka Bancho's charm. The presentation, including the rarely-serious dialogue throughout, and the complete pisstake on the rougher side of Japanese youth culture, is too good not to miss. When you let loose with that first menchi beam, you'll be hooked.

For all of Blade Kitten's low points, it pulls itself together nicely when it wants to show off.

Star Ocean contains an interesting plot buried in its depths, but it's incredibly demanding of your time and your patience. The long-winded, poorly conceived dialogue, and formulaic cut-scene, dungeon crawl, cut-scene, dungeon crawl design isn't getting any fresher. I still enjoyed the game and its comforting, monster-slaying grind, though.

A "solid" game: It works great on a technical level, and presents enough challenge to engage veteran players, but also enough on-screen direction and help to make it accessible to the game's younger audience -- it's just too long.

It looks fantastic as far as 3D games on DS go, and I'd rank it among the better loot treadmills currently available for the handheld. Just don't go in expecting a flawless -- or particularly modern -- experience.

Download it if you're a Disgaea fan looking for something to do on a long plane ride (and you've already played the PSP remakes) or a "novel" game fan looking for satisfaction on your PSP. Otherwise, NIS's latest attempt to expand the series is entirely missable.

Objectively, this first Watchmen episode is just an average brawler that looks fantastic at times, and has some good voice acting to boot.

Still, the big question remains: With Rock Band 2 coming to Wii in a matter of months, is this really the best time to ask people to buy a bunch of expensive peripherals that are on the verge of being bested by their next-gen counterparts? (While the first game's instruments will work with Rock Band 2, the sequel will come with new -- and improved -- peripherals.)

My advice: If you want to play multiplayer, buy this game with friends; otherwise, you'll just get bored waiting around in a cold, lonely, empty server -- not exactly the best front in which to wage war.

I just wish the game's signature (and somewhat watered-down -- go Teen rating!) Fatalities ("Heroic Brutalities" for the politically correct DC heroes) appeared in each character's move lists, as I'd rather not look up a button combination every time I want to shoot my opponent in the face or drop a Mortal Kombat arcade cabinet on his head. You know, the important stuff.

Even though it's a bit rough (bad A.I., the same repetitive mission grind of AC, the out-of-character boss battles, the approximately five-hour length), Bloodlines is saved by its generally solid adherence to the Assassin's Creed formula. Using the hidden blade to brutally counter some Templar makes up for silly boss fights and lame levels -- plus I get also some decent swords for Ezio's villa.

Beyond the bugs/glitches, the online matchmaking feels lacking compared to, say, Super Street Fighter 2 HD Remix or Street Fighter 4.

This time, the changes are a scattering of smaller ones. Track layout tweaks, customization quirks, 3D effects, first-person karting, and a power-up that adds to the general level of kart chaos by letting one player unleash seven items. MK7 isn't a kart game with a defining voice -- it's just a solid little kart game with a bunch of little tweaks.

But ultimately, even though a lot of things about MUA2 aggravate me, the moment-to-moment gameplay of superheroes beating the crap out of robots/mutants/soldiers with fists, mystical hammers, repulsor rays, giant tongues, and what-have-you feels solid and enjoyable.

Prey the Stars looks cute, but it isn't a cakewalk. Balancing the rhythm and the type of food you eat can be overwhelming, and with so many wild-card moments, frustration can trump fun. In multiplayer, though, Stars begins to shine as its complexity emerges in an engaging and extremely competitive game.

While it's not the most fantastic thing ever, a couple of its components -- namely the stylish presentation and the battle arenas -- are brilliant. Wet has the makings of a universe I'd like to revisit, but I'd want to see the same amount of polish that's been afforded to the wrappings in a follow-up.

While pretty much the same game on either system, the PS3 version of Thexder Neo has a couple of advantages over the PSP version, namely an online multiplayer mode where you can complete stages with several other players (though it's somewhat useless, since you still have to finding fellow players of what is, to be honest, a niche game), and the inclusion of the original 8-bit version of Thexder, which is a nice touch for retro game fans.

Objectively, this first Watchmen episode is just an average brawler that looks fantastic at times, and has some good voice acting to boot.

It has some good plot points and character development. But the story's shortcomings show the trials a young studio endures as it learns to craft a tale.

For Wii owners looking for a traditional action game in the vein of Castlevania or God of War, right now, this is still one of your best bets.

But this much is certain: when you put the game in and start playing, you'll actually be able to play a game of baseball. That alone is a huge improvement over last year's title.

I'd actually prefer a minigolf version of this series on the handheld systems. Maybe that would get me worked up about a relaxing round of Hot Shots again.

Still, like I mentioned, the game is not that long. Nor is it nearly as deep as the Contras it attempts to emulate.

It's a slight advancement over its predecessor, VT 3, but its biggest weaknesses, the online and single-player modes, mire an otherwise satisfying experience.

And speaking of kids today, most of them just won't go for Doom II on XBLA.

For all of Atlus' hype about the game's "full HD support," SF3 looks no better than your average PS2 title.

Supersonic seems a tad overpriced at $15 -- especially considering the nigh-featureless multiplayer and bland aesthetics -- but the single-player is short and sweet, and the core mechanics are simple and rewarding.

While it might not be worth the asking price for veteran Sega Bass junkies, this is a great opportunity for all you would-be Wii fisherman who happened to miss the boat the first time around.

Based on the series' past legacy of excellence, it's just a shame that Grimoire of the Rift feels more like an expansion pack than a bona fide sequel.

Obsidian's attempt at adding story elements fails to impress this time -- which stands out even more due to how plenty of other RPGs (especially Obsidian's) pull off a much better narrative.

Obsidian's attempt at adding story elements fails to impress this time -- which stands out even more due to how plenty of other RPGs (especially Obsidian's) pull off a much better narrative.

Honestly, the level of enjoyment you'll get out of the game will largely depend on which character you play. If the character you play is now one of the stronger fighters on the roster, then you'll most likely have a blast steamrolling the competition.

Honestly, the level of enjoyment you'll get out of the game will largely depend on which character you play. If the character you play is now one of the stronger fighters on the roster, then you'll most likely have a blast steamrolling the competition.

When compared to EA's monster, 2K9 feels a bit like pond hockey. And while that isn't necessarily a bad thing for newcomers, who'll eat up the wild excitement of the game, those who know better may recoil in their chairs when they realize just how crazy it can be.

All that can be said for sure is that this otherwise fine and dandy game is simply missing something that it needs.

But that's Other M: occasionally nonsensical (and always extraneous) story elements wrapped around generally excellent action and fun abilities. When you introduce more plot, you introduce more room for plot holes.

On a theoretical level it achieves a significant design accomplishment in pulling everything together into a cohesive package. As the person holding the controller, though, it stumbles too often on its inability to turn its potential into a consistently fun game.

Despite the controls, BlazBlue Portable is a game that you'll probably find immediately appealing. It's easy to pick up and start firing off combos and flashy special moves, but for hardcore fighting game fans, only a handful of characters are viable on a competitive level.