Overall, this release tries to add a fresh spin to the Anarchy Online universe and succeeds to a certain extent, though it would have been better to open the doors of the expansion a bit wider to let more kinds of gamers through to experience it all.

Even without the jaw dropping visuals of "Final Fantasy" or "Knights of the Old Republic," the deceptively deep but instantly accessible gameplay proves that Star Ocean can hang with the big boys as more than just a niche title, but as a top-tier franchise.

If Nippon Ichi’s last three releases can be considered a trilogy, then Phantom Brave is without a doubt "The Empire Strikes Back" of the series.

It pushes the PS2's hardware to incredible limits as it creates very atmospheric environments using amazing graphics and sound; however, Ghosthunter also features poorly conceived puzzles and level design that make for some frustrating moments.

Rejecting pressure from pseudo-sophisticated snobs who want to graft on artificial complexities that have been so trendy in recent computer action titles, Doom 3 is a far cry from the pattern of the latest shooters, and to me, that’s a real blessing.

Zoo Empire does add depth to the "Zoo Tycoon" formula, but plays it safe and doesn’t make any effort to change the established norm. If you tried "Zoo Tycoon" but didn’t think that it had enough options or graphical punch, Zoo Empire is for you.

Had the absurdity of the setting been more efficiently exploited for humor value, the many shortcomings might be more easily overlooked. As it stands, this title comes across as a last minute, off-the-cuff port from consoles to PC that skimped as often as possible.

Like the similar P.N.03 for the GameCube, however, extremely repetitive levels and generally bland design detract from the overall experience.

While it's not as deep or as long as "Knights of the Old Republic" or "Morrowind," credit should unquestionably be given to Sudeki for its brisk pacing, deceptively flexible character management and unique, engaging combat system.

While features such as the noise meter and match-up stick do give the player more control over the experience, significant updates and additions to the rest of NCAA 2005 were conspicuous in their absence this year.

A no-nonsense, straightforward, old school, GameCube-exclusive RPG.

The only reason you’re compelled to come back to it time and again is because you had fun the last time you played with it. In that sense, it’s the perfect toy.

Interface problems, relatively brief and inconclusive gameplay, repetitive backtracking, and uneven puzzles detract from your enjoyment.

It’s a satisfying strategic adventure if you have the persistence to overcome its quirks and nuances, but it’ll frustrate you senseless if you don’t want it bad enough.

Perimeter sets itself apart by not relying on what has come before, but by not making changes for the sake of change, it’s also engaging and fun to play.

I love Aura, as it’s the kind of visually and intellectually stimulating challenge that I crave and that’s so rare these days.

It’s the subtle establishment and cultivation of The Phoenix that really gives the game its punch. You know that the antagonist isn’t real, but you’ll still be kind of creeped out because you’ll begin to understand him.

Its graphics are outstanding, and the interesting single-player campaign should provide a good basis for those looking to spend countless hours in its challenging multiplayer.

Players looking to enjoy some wild arcade style longball, or at least a combination of the two approaches, can’t go wrong with Midway’s latest.

It’s crippled by horrendous A.I., murky movement speeds, agonizing loading times, dated graphics, quirky controls and poor network code.

The professional mode imposes every rule of the Indy Racing League, making for a truer simulation of actual driving conditions.

The on-foot aspect is near abysmal and takes the wind right out of the sails. The numerous graphical glitches and bugs don't help matters, either.

The new link system makes it possible to incite huge skirmishes and deal unprecedented amounts of damage to your enemies while opening up new strategic possibilities within your squad, and the addition of voiceovers brings the characters to life like never before.

Arguably the most cinematic shooter on the market, and though the gameplay is flawed in some respects, the lengthy, engrossing single-player campaign is still worth the price of admission. The offline multiplayer component can provide a few small kicks as well, but Xbox Live owners should beware, as online play is dodgy, to say the least.

The campaign is a bit short even by today's standards, but has phenomenal replayability and enough bonus content to keep you busy for quite some time.

Strategy war game buffs will find plenty to keep themselves entertained even though some may find the puzzle-like presentation off-putting. If you don’t mind a good strategy puzzle, however, this is your game.

The graphics, while dated, hold their own thanks to the fantastic lighting, and the audio work truly should be experienced.

Every single aspect of the game falls short of the industry average. What was supposed to be an adrenaline-fueled trip through the heady yesteryears of prohibition and mob rule is instead a tedious grind through repetitive and uninspired drudgery.