Definitely one of my favorite games of the year. It's not entirely perfect, but it is thoroughly enjoyable. If you've found yourself stuck in a gaming rut, I'd suggest combating it with a little levity and a great story.

Instead of a sense of "been there, done that" it will be a wave of comforting nostalgia, like a sea breeze taking you back to days gone by. OutRun 2006 is a lot of fun, it's just that you have to know exactly what to expect from the series.

With over two hundred premade puzzles, a puzzle editor, and the ability to download and share puzzles over Wi-Fi, there is a ton of puzzling goodness to be had in Rabbids Go Home.

In many ways, however, Dead Rising surpasses "Resident Evil" in terms of providing pure excitement without cheap "dog smashing through a window" tricks. Though flawed in many areas, Dead Rising is a thoroughly entertaining zombie-smashing experience.

The extremely user-friendly controls, deep open-world, loads of missions, and outrageous powers combine to make this one of the best titles to hit the PS3 to date.

Essentially, if you love Civilization V, Brave New World will open up a world of possibilities. And if you haven't yet picked up Civilization V, Brave New World is the best way to play.

An excellent and surprisingly deep game. This title does an excellent job of walking the fine line between being a Final Fantasy title and a dungeon crawler and gets the formula just right.

Instead of a sense of "been there, done that" it will be a wave of comforting nostalgia, like a sea breeze taking you back to days gone by. OutRun 2006 is a lot of fun, it's just that you have to know exactly what to expect from the series.

Expect a long adventure with an excellent amount of replay value due to trying out all of the characters available.

There's quite a bit of platforming. All together, the levels could take over fifteen hours, which is about normal for a game of its type. More importantly, the experience is top notch all the way.

There's quite a bit of platforming. All together, the levels could take over fifteen hours, which is about normal for a game of its type. More importantly, the experience is top notch all the way.

There's quite a bit of platforming. All together, the levels could take over fifteen hours, which is about normal for a game of its type. More importantly, the experience is top notch all the way.

If you're just looking to blast your way through level after level, Blood Money, is not the game for you. If you want to assume the role of an actual hitman and utilize the most dangerous weapon of all, your imagination, then by all means get your hands on this one.

Though the game's length might be a bit short for some, I found it to be the perfect slice for my tastes.

Though the game's length might be a bit short for some, I found it to be the perfect slice for my tastes.

If you’re just looking to blast your way through level after level, Blood Money, is not the game for you. If you want to assume the role of an actual hitman and utilize the most dangerous weapon of all, your imagination, then by all means get your hands on this one.

The drums are the most fun, but least challenging.

It would be easy to rag on the spotty combat controls, but RoR isn't about kicking ass - as I've maintained throughout, everything is secondary to the story. If you're in the right frame of mind for something completely dark and decidedly different, you'll find it blossoming in the macabre bouquet of Rule of Rose.

If you liked last year's UFC title, then you will definitely love this year's.

If you’ve been waiting for a great Western-themed shooter, then look no further than Call of Juarez: Bound in Blood. The gameplay is fun and varied, the story is entertaining, the visuals are well done, the voice acting is terrific, and the game even sports a respectable online offering.

Simply put, there’s no reason for an owner of an Xbox One to not have Halo: The Master Chief Collection, well unless they happen to also be a robot. Robots can’t make good decisions.

I can't state this enough; so far, this is one of the best Wii games of the year. With its complex gameplay, beautiful graphics, interesting controls, great sense of humor, and user-friendly approach, this is truly a game that will appeal to virtually any gamer.

What really matters is the gameplay and both the single-player and multi-player modes deliver the goods although you are likely to find the single-player mode more of an intense training session for your adventures online where you can play with up to 32 other humans.

This collection is a little something for fans to whet their appetites with in preparation for id's long-awaited reveal of the long-in-development fourth installment. With that said, this is one of the best HD re-releases I've played so far.

A welcome addition to the DS. This is one system that is kicking ass as far as support goes. The online multi-player component is just the icing on an already deliciously rich cake. A must-purchase for shooter fans.

Part of the magic of Heavy Rain and even The Taxidermist is the experiences are always different for each player the first time through. I can say I anxiously await Chapter Two, I just hope it is a little longer and maybe next time with Norman Jayden and Madison Page.

It has a robust story, an interesting system, a magnificent roster, and wonderful music. It's a great package that suffers from a few design choices I simply don't agree with. However, they are but small nitpicks in an otherwise enjoyable game.

It will appease hardcore fans of games like Assassin’s Creed and the Batman: Arkham series, while introducing new gameplay mechanics that fundamentally change the structure of the game. A unique experience for any gamer indeed.

The career mode is just deep enough, but the online mode feels like it could have been fleshed out a little.

There's plenty of alchemy and adventure in Meruru, with less filler travel time. There are fewer endings than Totori, but they're easier to get.

This really is the best version of virtual pinball currently available on the market. With its spot-on controls and gameplay, authentic-looking and sounding tables, HD visuals, online leaderboards, and sheer variety of tables to choose from, TWC is the quintessential game for any pinball fan.

Lego branded video games veer little from their gameplay formula with each new entry, so to say that Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens is one that should not be overlooked is a credit to the quality and faithfulness the developer delivered.

Ultimately, if you're willing to take some time to solve the puzzles and enjoy this kind of gameplay, Professor Layton and The Curious Village will become one of your favorite games. If you're not a thinker and what you like is action, you're better off ignoring it; you'll save yourself a headache.

That being said, the new multiplayer modes and gameplay are phenomenal and the subtle refinements to the title do make Rainbow Six Vegas 2 superior to its predecessor.

There are tons of things to do in the game, with even more in the multiplayer and side quests. Hours of play long after you think you are done.

It's the perfect game to pick up and play here and there and has enough replay value, that you'll want to go back and earn higher rankings to unlock those cool cheats.

The amount of content available in this game is quite impressive.

This game is a steal; we were shocked to see such a great price point on a title that really does give Punch-Out!! a run for its money. The difficulty is truly unforgiving, so it's not for everyone, but by this point, Punch-Out!! fans know what they're in for. So, download away.

Much like you, I wish this was an official MLB game - which would definitely make it one of the best baseball games ever released - but it's still a great game of ball no matter how you look at it.

With the number of licensed clubs, Career options as a player and manager, and online component, FIFA 11 will keep you busy for a long time.

It is a great example of innovative gameplay, and though it might take a while to get a hold on the actual battle mechanics, once you get going, you won't be able to stop!

With the number of licensed clubs, Career options as a player and manager, and online component, FIFA 11 will keep you busy for a long time.

With the number of licensed clubs, Career options as a player and manager, and online component, FIFA 11 will keep you busy for a long time.

The career mode is just deep enough, but the online mode feels like it could have been fleshed out a little.

With more than 400 single and multiplayer levels, and limitless online potential, there's no reason to put this one down anytime soon!

The smaller world size and lack of Adventure Update features mean this is the PC version's little brother rather than an upgrade. Still, you'll lose yourself for hours.

For an RPG, Eternal Sonata isn't particularly long -- it clocks in at around 30 hours -- but it's a deep, rewarding, and completely entertaining experience while it lasts.

Pretty much the exact Kirby game we all wanted. Sure, his animal companions aren't involved (seriously, Nintendo, bring them back), but the same gameplay that made Kirby Super Star so much fun back in the 90s is present and accounted for.

Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep may not have been the game fans of the series were initially hoping for, but that doesn't stop it from being the best entry in the series yet.

You have to really be into this kind of game to truly appreciate it otherwise you might just declare it as boring. It's a thinking man's game, not as deep as chess but there are certainly a lot of elements to juggle around in your head.

This really is the best version of virtual pinball currently available on the market. With its spot-on controls and gameplay, authentic-looking and sounding tables, HD visuals, online leaderboards, and sheer variety of tables to choose from, TWC is the quintessential game for any pinball fan.

The most complete and refined version of the series yet. Overall, it is very similar to last year's Tiger, but the refinements are cool.

Though the format is identical to the original 'Splosion Man, the new protagonist's sassy attitude goes a long way in making the experience feel fresh again.

The variety of modes, the insane amount of unlockables and the sheer element of fun makes Grand Adventure a game not to be missed.

By the very nature of its genre, it can be maddeningly frustrating and repetitive, and this tendency increases markedly as you unlock harder courses. For these select few gamers, however, this is a must-buy, because it's not often that a top-notch time-trial game comes around.

The lack of multiplayer will hurt it with some people, but the sheer number of upgrades and collectables should keep gamers coming back for awhile. Besides that, it's a whole lot of fun.

Although you might expect the next gen version to shine the brightest, the current gen consoles actually turn in the brightest performance overall in my opinion, with the Xbox first, PS2 second.

The cartoon-like graphics are colorful and nicely rendered with plenty of depth and detail. With lots of wacky sound effects, fast-paced, non-stop action this is one seriously busy game that is guaranteed to hold even the most deficit of attention spans.

Halo Wars 2 isn’t trying to redefine real-time strategy games, but rather give fans of the genre an option on their Xbox One consoles. It’s leaning on Microsoft’s most cherished franchise and using it well.

The lack of multiplayer will hurt it with some people, but the sheer number of upgrades and collectables should keep gamers coming back for awhile. Besides that, it's a whole lot of fun.

Lots of unlocks for extra features, and some of the best level design ever seen makes this game infinitely replayable. A perfect score is tarnished here by a lackluster multiplayer option.

The second screen really adds a great new dynamic to the gameplay, and the classic feel of the game is as sharp as ever. I really can't recommend this title enough; it is very fun to play, and the online modes provide endless replay value.

Faranga is a finely crafted setting for what ultimately turns into a tremendously deep and very satisfying fantasy RPG. It has a few shortcomings; they're largely forgivable, once you get lost in the adventure.

If you're looking for a smart game that doesn't require the patience of Job or the genius of Einstein, but a little more intelligence than a monkey with his hand on his joystick, then SWAT 4 and The Stetchkov Syndicate expansion pack are definitely for you.

The racing gameplay is straightforward and although there are unlockables, there isn't enough to increase the replay value score. The wireless multi-player mode will be the game's only salvation in terms of replay value.

A combination of exciting, refreshing gameplay and the incredibly outlandish setting and characters really make Zeno Clash a standout game.

Kirby's Epic Yarn is definitely up there with Super Mario Galaxy 2 as a must-have Nintendo game this year. However, what separates Kirby from everyone's red-capped plumber is that there were some serious risks taken with Kirby, and the result is something totally awesome.

A great game that you can’t go wrong with. But unless you’re prepared to play the multi-player modes for months on end with your buddies, (remember there is no online play), then you’d be advised to rent this.

Casual pinball players will love the Plants vs. Zombies table, and pro players have access to a great selection of Zen's most popular tables.

Three excellent games on one disc means you'll be playing Metroid for tens of hours. On the downside, bonus content is non-existent, leaving the package feeling a bit underwhelming for veterans of the series.

Between single and multiplayer modes, this is a game that you can play for a hundred hours in its first year, and then come back to time and again in the future. I just wish there was a bit more depth outside of combat. The technical execution is flawless!

With the deep and strategic gameplay, a great tutorial and a variety of modes including a two-player ad hoc wireless mode, there's no reason not to purchase UBP.

There are a lot of new features this year, but none of them are of much consequence. If you own Madden 08, there is no truly outstanding aspect that makes a repurchase necessary. In fact, the Superstar and Franchise game modes are nearly identical, and the Online Leagues aren't impressive enough to outshine the excellent online play of last year.

The story is told by fantastic cutscenes, fully voiced and animated to perfection.

If Joe Danger had online multiplayer and an online hub to exchange track creations, it would be darn near perfect. Even without these additions, the game's still an incredible value.

As far as I'm concerned, Sony has made the best baseball game ever.

Antichamber is so much more than a first-person puzzle game. It’s indie development at its best. It’s simple in premise but it makes you question everything you know. It tells its entire story and expresses its entire theme through gameplay and gameplay alone. This is art—admittedly abstract art, but art nonetheless.

Should be seen as the greatest game in a long line of excellent golf titles. This game is the culmination of six years of genre dominance. The new team game modes are fresh and fun, while the structure of the Team Tour is a perfect blend of team management and in-game strategy.

It's not the real thing, but at ten dollars, it's an incredible value with a great selection of modes and plenty to unlock.

a great handheld racing game. Compared to Race Driver, it's more like an expansion pack. It's very similar, although more refined. But if you haven't played the original, this is the one to get.

If you’ve been waiting for a great Western-themed shooter, then look no further than Call of Juarez: Bound in Blood. The gameplay is fun and varied, the story is entertaining, the visuals are well done, the voice acting is terrific, and the game even sports a respectable online offering.

A must buy for dual-stick shooter fans. The sharp difficulty, new modes, and low price point ($10) add up to a game that's hard to turn down.

Punishingly difficult, yet ostentatiously cute, Rhythm Heaven is the epitome of what a handheld music-based game should be. Forget guitar grips or funky cheerleaders! You won't find a more engaging or entertaining music experience for the DS.

With its beautiful presentation, broadcast-like feel, smooth control scheme, and innovative new online functions, NHL 09 is not only the best hockey title on the market, it may very well be the best of all-time.

An excellent storyline that challenges players to understand the philosophy of life, existence, and religion, backed with solid, if a little too easy, gameplay.

If you were a fan of the first two games in the series, but you thought the third game missed the mark, Awakened could very well feel like the long-awaited return of an old friend.

Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 has enough extra content and polish to make it the hands down, definitive version of the game.

There is a good amount of single-player content here, including multiple difficulty levels, and a large number of challenge missions. The inclusion of Wi-Fi multiplayer and single-cart game sharing rounds out this package as a must have for kart racing fans.

Tiger Woods PGA Tour 08 is the most complete and refined version of the series yet. Overall, it is very similar to last year's Tiger, but the refinements are cool.

All of these innovations along with the tons of single-player, cooperative, and competitive modes make this the best and most complete Lode Runner ever.

Harvey Birdman: Attorney at Law will teach you as much about law as a cartoon will teach you about the laws of physics. Don't take it too seriously, and you'll have a blast.

There's a ton of content here; enough that the forced repetition of old levels could have been avoided.

Trine is a wonderful addition to the PlayStation Network and a worthy buy for anyone who enjoys cooperative games.

There's a ton of content here; enough that the forced repetition of old levels could have been avoided.

Ducati Moto is definitely recommended for fans of bike racing of all levels. Even those with no interest in the genre should at least try their hand at this game, as it's really beginner-friendly. Your skills will increase as you play, and you can actually cultivate your own style through skill development and the upgrades that you purchase.

The variety of modes, the insane amount of unlockables and the sheer element of fun makes Grand Adventure a game not to be missed.

Overall the game is a blast, but the difference between the sequel and the original is purely cosmetic.

With all the modes and the differences caused by changes in the environments and zombies, this game will keep you coming back for quite some time.