Samurai Warrriors: Katana is a Wii killer. It is the kind of electronic swag, like the abominations coming from Bold Games (Orbs of Doom, Kidz Sports, etc.) that will make fans turn away from the platform. Nintendo needs to get control of third party publishers. They are making the Wii seem like a Fisher Price console.

Boogie Bunnies is a pretty good Live Arcade title for fans of games like Bejeweled and Hexic who aren't necessarily looking for anything new. The problem with this game really comes in when veterans of these puzzlers realize that this game is almost a clone of these previous titles.

The thing that hurts Nitrobike the most is that it just doesn't bring much new content to the table in terms of Wii racing titles. In fact, aside from the well-done online mode, it's a near carbon-copy of Excite Truck.

No new gaming ground is broken, and players looking for a "gamers" game won't find it here. However, if a simple, occasionally plodding, procedural crime adventure appeals to you, then you could do worse than joining Gil Grissom's crew in this true-to-tv-show experience.

All of the things that The Sims is, Miami Nights: Singles in the City just isn't. It is repetitive and boring, and just can't deliver in the way that fans of sim-style gameplay could appreciate. Plus the characters are a little too creepy for my tastes.

The sound effects are decent, but the music is retro, cheesy 80s rock that repeats ad nauseam.

Each subsequent episode in this new season obliterates expectations with even more unfathomably ridiculous plot twists and endearing characters. The gameplay stays pretty much the same throughout every episode, but the content continues to improve.

Omega Five is exactly what Xbox Live Arcade needed. Though it is nothing new in terms of gameplay, this game proves that XBLA games are worth the purchase. The visuals are stunning for a game of this nature, and will often attract others into watching or playing with you. Expect Xbox to notice that when they create a game specifically for XBLA instead of remaking games or re-releasing games, it can be worth the extra effort.

If you're a fan of the tried-and-true action-RPG formula, then this one won't disappoint. However, if you've never understood the satisfaction of slogging through demon-filled dungeons or, more importantly, never stayed up until the sun creeps through the cracks of your drawn blinds in hopes of seeing "Level Up" pop-up on the screen just one more time, then this may not be your cup of mead.

The wacky gameplay, broken tackles, and cheating computer may get the best of you. On the other hand, those of you that are arcade buffs or are particularly good at sports games should love it.

The wacky gameplay, broken tackles, and cheating computer may get the best of you. On the other hand, those of you that are arcade buffs or are particularly good at sports games should love it.

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.

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.

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.

It's a new and improved Sonic Riders with plenty of new tracks and characters to enjoy. It's a must-have for Sonic fans and a "might-enjoy" for aces of the racing genre, especially for those who like F-Zero and Wipeout.

It's a new and improved Sonic Riders with plenty of new tracks and characters to enjoy. It's a must-have for Sonic fans and a "might-enjoy" for aces of the racing genre, especially for those who like F-Zero and Wipeout.

I wish we could have seen a little more ingenuity in the title, but then again it is a DDR game, and I can't expect any drastic deviation from the formula. This title's biggest strength lies in its successful incorporation of the Disney material, and this makes it a title worth picking up for any Disney Channel fan with an interest in DDR or music games.

A classic case of one step forward, two steps back. For all its positive efforts with varied gameplay and the new story elements, the core gameplay remains the same as it has always been, and the poor look of the game and the terrible sound quality really make this game a missed opportunity.

Although the information presented is interesting, the effort to extract it is just not worth the reward.

There is something about this game that just feels completely outdated. This is extremely disappointing for a PS2 game, and I think perhaps it was simply rushed.

The sounds of the game are something to be proud of, indeed. Not only are the tunes cool and action-packed but the sound effects are also really nice and suitable for this arcade gem. The voice over is funny and reminds you of the good old times at the arcade.

When Bold Games publishes a budget title, they're not joking. Kidz Sports: Basketball doesn't cut the mustard. It's not even mediocre. I can only hope the other titles in the Popcorn Arcade series are better.

Classic British Motor Racing is a title that most people should avoid. It does not provide a satisfying racing experience, and it does not provide any real satisfying gameplay elements.

Indianapolis 500 Legends is not for everyone. Although it's an arcade racer that virtually anyone can pick up and play, the excitement of driving around the same old track, year after year, wears off in a few hours.

If you're up for the challenge, and you want to trace the lineage of some of your favorite games of all times by exploring their heritage, you simply can't afford to pass up Atari Classics Evolved.

The game as a whole just suffers from its poor production and a whole host of missed opportunities.

I find this title more attractive for families and young crowds, rather than full-fledged gamers who are over seventeen years old.

Overall, Luxor: Pharaoh's Challenge offers a solid puzzle gameplay. It's engaging, it's has goals that make sense, and it looks good. Also, it's not another Tetris knock-off, which is nice, after playing so many games that look almost the same.

NeoGeo Battle Coliseum doesn't have the deeper, satisfying gameplay of games like Marvel vs. Capcom 2, but if you were in the SNK 2-D fighter camp, you'll find much to enjoy here, even if it is just for the sake of nostalgia.

The lack of a grid is probably the biggest pull-down for this game; if it had been a bit more structured, it could have really been great. But that problem doesn't negate all the good things about this game. It's still addictive, and it's still fun. Squad Command may not be the best strategy game out there, but it's by no means the worst.

I would definitely recommend this title to those who haven't had any experience with the series, as it is a great standalone title. But for those with a passion for x-cross who have already experienced MX vs. ATV, this title may not be as unique of an experience as they might want.

I would definitely recommend this title to those who haven't had any experience with the series, as it is a great standalone title. But for those with a passion for x-cross who have already experienced MX vs. ATV, this title may not be as unique of an experience as they might want.

Now that I've had to time to think about it, it seems that the only reason that MX vs. ATV Untamed for the PS2 exists is to force players to purchase the superior version on the superior PS3 system.

MX vs ATV: Untamed is an arcade-style racing game. It's like eating candy floss when what you really want is a steak. It doesn't exactly starve you for entertainment, but it leaves you hungry for more.

A pretty dull game. Almost every facet of this game feels monotonous and could even be described as boring.

A lackadaisical approach to the hack-and-slash role playing genre. Nevertheless, there are enough bright moments to overlook the game's several detriments, which include mediocre visuals, a poor camera, a confusing synthesis system, and an uneven difficulty.

Terrible. There is a split-screen multiplayer option, but I can't imagine anyone who'd want to participate, and why would they? Sluggish controls, poor attention to detail, lack of customization, and unbalanced difficulty all makes Showtime Championship Boxing a dud.

It would be hard to find a better deal anywhere and you definitely won't be disappointed by what is in the Box.

Overall, March Madness 08 is a pretty good basketball game. The problem is that it isn't the best basketball game available by far. It can probably easily claim second best, but College Hoops is a much better basketball experience.

Overall, March Madness 08 is a pretty good basketball game. The problem is that it isn't the best basketball game available by far. It can probably easily claim second best, but College Hoops is a much better basketball experience.

With some motion and graphic qualities lacking, it's a shame EA hasn't gone further to incorporate excellent atmosphere with astounding gameplay for the ultimate college hoops game.

A significant improvement over the first installment. The visuals, sounds, and gameplay are all well done. The controls are decent, but they may be too frustrating to many gamers. This is especially so for youngsters. That's unfortunate because the game's whimsical feel is best suited for children.

Serves up a lot of gameplay for your $30 dollars. None of the events come quite close enough to holding their own as stand-alone games, yet they succeed as a part of a substantive sports package.

If you're looking for a ground-breaking experience or a robust selection of multiplayer modes- Blacksite's don't offer much more than a weekend distraction--this isn't it. However, if you find the idea of fighting aliens in your own backyard appealing, you won't do better than Blacksite's relatable, the-truth-is-out-there experience.

Online is where Universe at War: Earth Assault comes into its own. It's not overly complex, but it offers plenty of depth with all of the various options and customizing features.

If you really want some Jenga action, you'll be far better off buying the classic block game and make the loser reset the tower.

If you're a fan of Godzilla, you'll find a lot to enjoy with this game once you get beyond the flawed and unresponsive controls.

Despite its uninspired gameplay, the simple tasks and challenges may appeal to a younger audience, especially those that've seen the film. But if you're part of the "+" demographic in The Golden Compass' "E10+" rating, then you'll likely be bored soon after Iorek's opening wolf-whuppin' battle sequence.

Despite its uninspired gameplay, the simple tasks and challenges may appeal to a younger audience, especially those that've seen the film. But if you're part of the "+" demographic in The Golden Compass' "E10+" rating, then you'll likely be bored soon after Iorek's opening wolf-whuppin' battle sequence.

This game is clearly a rushed mess, and perhaps should have taken a nod from the Superman Returns video game and not been released until The Golden Compass inevitable DVD release.

As a children's game, The Golden Compass offers hours of fun with controls that aren't too complex, yet tasks that are challenging. With its 10+ rating, the game does offer some educational value and enough fun to keep kids interested.

It's easy to get a little hung-up on the presentation, but Draglade is a good fighting game when you look deeper beneath the exterior trappings. The controls are tight, and the action blows by at a steady pace. Adding a touch of rhythm into the mix is a fresh and exciting idea.

The battle system is old and redundant, the visuals are lackluster, the music is non-existent, and there isn't even a multiplayer option.

As a video game, Cranium Kabookii offers an experience that can't even match that of its low-tech predecessor. The poor control and repetitive gameplay coupled with the underwhelming graphics and sound make for an experience that's better left off of the video game console and back on to your family's dining-room table.

Many of the A.I., both friendly and enemy, look the same. There are only a few different character models. They animate well, but at times they will get stuck in the scenery or just freeze.

I would fully recommend this game to people who know a little one who loves music, and is just starting to get into the world of video gaming.

I would fully recommend this game to people who know a little one who loves music, and is just starting to get into the world of video gaming.

I would fully recommend this game to people who know a little one who loves music, and is just starting to get into the world of video gaming.

Left Brain, Right Brain is an interesting training game idea that unfortunately suffers from a lack of depth and an occasional feeling of pointlessness.

It serves as nothing more than a throwaway PC port-over with the intent of taking advantage of the Wii's controls. The problem is that it wasn't built as a Wii game from the ground up, thus the awkward feel of aiming and positioning with the Wii-mote. Aside from that, the visuals are lackluster, the audio is virtually non-existent, and the gameplay is shallow.

As an overall package, Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3 is the perfect ensemble for all those die hard fans out there. With tons of options and modes, there is just so much for the player to do. Online play furthers the longevity of the title. Unfortunately, from my point of view the quality does not match the quantity. The controls annoyed me too much, and for a game that relies on fast paced action, that just will not do.

If you're seeking some short and sweet turn-based gameplay with a fun, original presentation, then look no further. With some gameplay expansion, a slightly more involved story, and additional content, Band of Bugs could prove to be a substantial contender down the road.

Puzzle Quest is by no means perfect. In fact, one of its most noticeable flaws happens to be an extremely weird one (tiny text) and immensely frustrating, and the game may not be good for casual gamers due to its high difficulty level. Still, if you can get over both those flaws, you're in for one heckuva good time.

Pain has been one of my most anticipated titles this year. Of course it can't compare to some of this year's bigger releases, but I am a girl of simple tastes. I thoroughly enjoyed Pain, chiefly because even though it has a simple premise, it creates memorable gameplay through very tight and precise controls, and some extremely interesting modes of play.

Galaxies my not be as flashy or elaborate of some of the shooter titles on the DS, but it sure packs a mean wallop. It also has personality, and that goes a long way.

So, the conclusion is this: you got a free game with your Wii when you bought it right? Just play that.

The concept is solid, the music is admittedly catchy (for the most part), and the style is there; we'd just like to see more of it coupled with better gameplay implementation.

Master of Illusion is what it aspires to be: a game that teaches you the secrets of magic. Sure, it is not going to teach you how to be Criss Angel that guy is really weird, but it is does teach you the basics.

If I could only choose one game this holiday season, it would have to be Mass Effect... If you're looking for a title that tells a great story, is loaded with content, has a surprising amount of re-playability due to customization, and will keep you glued to your couch, Mass Effect is a great choice.

Kane and Lynch reeks of an undercooked effort that should've baked a few more months in the development oven. If the care and polish that went into the wonderfully cinematic level presentation had also been applied to the writing and gameplay, it could've been a bar-raising effort for the third-person shooter genre.

The plodding and imperfect gameplay, poor visuals, nonexistent story, and terrible controls combine to create an experience best avoided.

Rock Band has one thing going for it: the necessity to having friends to play and the willingness to work together. It may not be enough for everyone to drop 170 bucks on the game and equipment, but I can say if you even remotely have thought about this game, it is worth it.

Rock Band has one thing going for it: the necessity to having friends to play and the willingness to work together. It may not be enough for everyone to drop 170 bucks on the game and equipment, but I can say if you even remotely have thought about this game, it is worth it.

Ghost Squad is a culmination of hits and misses, forming a package that succeeds because of its quirky charm and traditional gameplay.

Although it wasn't the most complete Soul Calibur game I've ever played, the Wii controls, the multiplayer modes, and the storyline make it worth playing for fans of the series.

It could easily be my pick for the best DS game this year because it seems to have all the right ingredients: A great story, unique gameplay, killer visuals, and a fantastic score. All of these elements combine to create the best gaming experience on the DS this year, and it's no wonder that this precious gem came from the folks at Square-Enix. It's an absolute joy to play, and I can't overstate my satisfaction with this game.

Geometry Wars: Galaxies is a game for the old school hardcore gamer that loves to push himself to the limits. It is a game that is best served in short doses, but each dosage is an incredible experience of psychedelic gameplay that is both frenetic and engaging.

There are other simple shooters out there that cost much less and are far more rewarding.

Although the "cinematics" remain fairly archaic, the noticeable bump to its graphics and the excellent addition of voice work makes New Blood a more compelling experience overall.

While the RPG and action elements aren't exactly balanced equally, this game may be most appealing to RPG fans who like a bit of excitement in their role-playing experience.

Its sole redeeming quality are the incredible number of monsters that are available in the game.

It does what any solid game in the genre should by immersing players in a deeply interactive and fantastic story environment. It also creates a strong sense of intrigue which will draw you forward through the plot of the game. The problem is there are frequent moments were players may wish to keep moving ahead to find out what happens next, yet they'll be impeded by a number of unintentionally frustrating obstacles in the gameplay.

The limited gameplay itself is solid enough to warrant a few hours of space combat, but as a Star Trek title, Conquest simply doesn't live up to expectation.

The limited gameplay itself is solid enough to warrant a few hours of space combat, but as a Star Trek title, Conquest simply doesn't live up to expectation.

UT3 is visually stunning and the action is non-stop. It's hard to find much to seriously complain about once you drop in and start annihilating opponents in the huge number of high-quality maps with awesome vehicles and a variety of decent play modes. Epic doesn't reinvent the wheel here, but it does give players a fresh update on a classic old-school design that will keep you fragging long into the night.

I applaud the developers for not dragging the gameplay out. It's as long as it needs to be, and even if that means a little on the short side, so be it. It just leaves me wanting more.

A decent shooter with a gimmick that sets it apart. Without the time shifting abilities, TimeShift would have been a less than mediocre shooter, especially considering some of the amazing FPS games that it has to compete with. The time manipulation gimmick makes TimeShift an enjoyable if forgettable experience.

College Hoops 2K8 is a great college basketball game, both for dedicated fans of the game and for casual b-ball lovers. The new additions to the game, even the flawed ones, are a step in the right direction, bringing the game closer and closer to the definitive college basketball experience.

College Hoops 2K8 is a great college basketball game, both for dedicated fans of the game and for casual b-ball lovers. The new additions to the game, even the flawed ones, are a step in the right direction, bringing the game closer and closer to the definitive college basketball experience.

It's a solid platforming adventure that does not involve much depth, but definitely gives fans of the series, as well as the younger sect, a game they can enjoy.

Stock animation generates the same A.I. moves over and over again. This redundant theme is further exacerbated by the gameplay which, despite changing environments, doesn't differ from mission to mission.

At its base, it's really just a recycling of old Mario Party mini-games, and just doesn't feel new enough to be its own game.

Even if you feel you're more precise by simply holding the Wii-mote, you definitely have to give the Zapper a try and play until you're awesome at it. It's worth it and it brings the game to a whole new level!

From the adventure-filled gameplay to the pristine presentation, each of Uncharted's twenty chapters are polished to perfection and will leave you counting the days to the inevitable sequel. Despite packing a lengthy campaign, you'll hate to see it come to an end.

Parents with children that watch the show faithfully will please their progeny by purchasing this title, but others may find themselves unimpressed by the uninspired platforming and confusing characters.

Rent it, play it with your friends, and see what you think. I'm not saying you can't have fun with Rayman Raving Rabbids 2 if you're in good company, but you'll probably agree with me in that the mini-games are a little weak.

The effort put into the depth of control of this game is very apparent. Each of the four modes of racing controls in subtly different ways, and racing aficionados will definitely be able to tell the difference.

The best area of the game is the online multiplayer, but even that pales in comparison to other possibilities like Call of Duty 4 or Halo 3.