To say that the Lead Blocking Control completely revolutionizes Madden is the understatement of the year.

To say that the Lead Blocking Control completely revolutionizes Madden is the understatement of the year.

Somewhat underwhelming. It’s got all the ingredients of a great game but somebody just didn’t get the recipe right.

Disappointing. Everything about this title feels like it needs more work, from the cut-scenes to the broken A.I. of your allies.

The everything-and-the-kitchen-sink approach attempts to overshadow the lack of depth in Deep Labyrinth, but it can’t escape from its own repetitiveness. While we may be misdirected temporarily, we soon find ourselves back on the well-beaten path.

D1 as a budget title is practically a joke, but as a premium title, this game is too ridiculous for words.

It's a shame that the controls weren't tighter and the level design weren't more varied, because this one could have been a classic. As it stands now, it's a title easily worth picking up for shooter fans tired of being stuck with R-Type.

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.

Those who mastered the game as a child will be the only people that will get the full experience out of the Xbox Arcade port. Casual players will be instantly turned away by the daunting single-player difficulty and the outrageous lag experienced online.

Sure, the title is only five bucks, but there is absolutely nothing new here besides the ability to continue from your last stage, which is something no self-respecting Galaga player will ever use.

Virtually guaranteed to become an instant classic. It's fast, furious, fun and fantastically florid and flagitious.

As awful as repeating any of these single-player mission sounds, it’s something that you’re going to have to get used to. Due to the unfair advantages of the enemy, including the fog of war that prevents you from seeing what lies ahead, you will constantly be surprised by waves of enemies as you push forward without the ability to obtain any intelligence or reconnaissance.

Painkiller will cater to fans that want their action simple and lightning-quick. The weapon selection is limited but versatile, while the body count is astonishingly high right out of the gate.

Up to 16 people can play online but don't expect that many to show up for a war. Fortunately you can play with as little as one extra person online - and that may be the best you can hope for.

As awful as repeating any of these single-player mission sounds, it's something that you're going to have to get used to. Due to the unfair advantages of the enemy, including the fog of war that prevents you from seeing what lies ahead, you will constantly be surprised by waves of enemies as you push forward without the ability to obtain any intelligence or reconnaissance.

It's hard not to have a smirk on your face throughout most of the game as you revel in the light-hearted, comical atmosphere. It's a treat not to have to take things so seriously for a change.

Up to 16 people can play online but don't expect that many to show up for a war. Fortunately you can play with as little as one extra person online - and that may be the best you can hope for.

Miami Vice feels like a budget title. I only hope that these new schools that are offering game developing classes makes use of this game as a "what-not to do" for control development so that someone in this world can get something from this game.

Fans of the original that are still clutching to their original copies will find nothing new here, however, which is a huge letdown for anyone looking to revisit one of Playstation's greatest on the little screen.

[The 360] title provides near-perfect football gameplay with a decent dynasty mode. But when stacked next to the Xbox and PS2, its hard to justify the extra ten dollar price tag for a less extensive overall experience.

On its own merit, this title provides near-perfect football gameplay with a decent dynasty mode. But when stacked next to the Xbox and PS2, its hard to justify the extra ten dollar price tag for a less extensive overall experience.

There is no co-op mode but you will get a few good hours out of this mode, as well as few interesting goodies.

Overall Super Dragon Ball Z would be [better] described as "slightly different" than "new and improved."

Monster House is a breezy summer title for the kids that will keep them busy for a while, but it doesn't take full advantage of its impressive source material and leaves its players wishing for better.

[The 360] title provides near-perfect football gameplay with a decent dynasty mode. But when stacked next to the Xbox and PS2, its hard to justify the extra ten dollar price tag for a less extensive overall experience.

Monster House is a breezy summer title for the kids that will keep them busy for a while, but it doesn't take full advantage of its impressive source material and leaves its players wishing for better.

While Prey brings a lot of innovation and fun with it, it's not quite the system-shattering killer app that a decade of delay should promise. It is, however, a solid FPS with many never before seen features and an interesting and original storyline.

Operating the hounds is a breeze. They are even easier to operate than the mechs in Mech Assault, although they don't move as quick. Speed is sacrificed for ease of control.

A rock-solid game filled with innovation, a compelling story, and gorgeous graphics.

You never know what character is out to get you, so this adds an extra dimension of cloak and dagger, as well as paranoia. You simply can't go around killing everyone, so you have to keep a careful watch of all characters and try not to draw attention to yourself.

Much like Bioware's "Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, Middle-earth II" has been created from the ground up with the Tolkien fan in mind. Those who appreciate this incredible body of fiction will love being able to wage epic battles with the touch of a few buttons.

For a game that was inspired by a movie that was inspired by a theme park ride that was originally inspired by a book, The Legend of Jack Sparrow is less than inspired.

For a game that was inspired by a movie that was inspired by a theme park ride that was originally inspired by a book, The Legend of Jack Sparrow is less than inspired.

It's not a pick-up-and-play game and even after all the time you spend flattening the learning curve you might find that you don't really like it after all. Like racing, you win some, you lose some.

More than anything it's just that the characters don't have any pizzazz. They are dull and uninspired.

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.

The visuals are very disappointing, the music is terrible, control is weak, the gameplay is average and the price is $60. You do the math.

The downer is that DMC doesn't support one cart play, so each player will have to own their own copy of the game.

It comes across like fireworks, in that it's a lot of intense fun for a short period of time but when it's over, it's over. Don't expect much replay value unless you're one of those compulsive types that has to "collect-‘em-all.

It comes across like fireworks, in that it's a lot of intense fun for a short period of time but when it's over, it's over. Don't expect much replay value unless you're one of those compulsive types that has to "collect-‘em-all.

It comes across like fireworks, in that it's a lot of intense fun for a short period of time but when it's over, it's over. Don't expect much replay value unless you're one of those compulsive types that has to "collect-‘em-all.

As long as you're not looking for the game that topples FIFA, then you're sure to have a ball with World Tour Soccer 2006. As they sometimes say, some games aren't for everyone but this game is definitely meant for all.

The concept is sound and original. Hopefully the developers will make the game more action/adventure-oriented to break up the monotony.

Quite simply, if you are a Naruto fan, you're going to get a lot of entertainment value out of Ultimate Ninja.

Entertaining and fun if you can weather the frustrating parts.

Realistic motorcycle gameplay, multiplayer action, and online play that will keep you locked in your room for months. I just hope that in MotoGP 5, I'll get to relive those days of Road Rash and be able to knock a guy off his bike with a baseball bat, but until that happens, Moto GP 4 will have to do. [UK Import]

When Head Coach hits, it slams it out of the ballpark. Excellent structure and balance in the practice periods before game day ensure that you take your time and prepare extensively, while tasks at the front office put you in control of every aspect of the franchise.

The Legend of Heroes II will not disappoint fans of the original that are looking for more of the same. The rest of us can expect to be a little less than impressed.

Break ‘Em All is not big on presentation, and that could easily be overlooked if the ball physics wasn’t broken. I would seriously advise that you rent this game first because the more difficult it gets, the more control you will have to exert over the ball and that just isn’t going to happen.

When Head Coach hits, it slams it out of the ballpark. Excellent structure and balance in the practice periods before game day ensure that you take your time and prepare extensively, while tasks at the front office put you in control of every aspect of the franchise.

When Head Coach hits, it slams it out of the ballpark. Excellent structure and balance in the practice periods before game day ensure that you take your time and prepare extensively, while tasks at the front office put you in control of every aspect of the franchise.

Urban Chaos is definitely worth a rental. If you’re good, there’s no reason that you can’t complete it in a weekend. There are plenty of side missions that will extend the replay value if you purchase the game and want to wring every second of enjoyment out of it, but you don’t have to take on these side missions if you just want to blast your way through it.

The one drawback is the control which screams for an arcade stick as the PS2 controller just honestly doesn't cut in terms of directional control.

It's a new, fully-realized medium of entertainment that I predict we're going to see a lot of in the future, especially on handheld systems.

The story is old hat, the telling of it is pretty lame but overall it serves as a good enough excuse to get into a giant robot and blow things up.

At $29.99, Point Blank is honestly a little steep simply because the game does lose its charm after the first couple of hours.

Urban Chaos is definitely worth a rental. If you're good, there's no reason that you can't complete it in a weekend. There are plenty of side missions that will extend the replay value if you purchase the game and want to wring every second of enjoyment out of it, but you don't have to take on these side missions if you just want to blast your way through it.

Usually games that tend to offer something for everyone, end up being nothing for nobody. Moto GP 06 is an exceptional exception to that rule.

While the obnoxious ads shouldn’t be taken into account when critiquing a title, its poor execution of nearly every aspect of gameplay warrants plenty of scolding. Placing players in a position early for failure, then failing to reward them with engaging gameplay or satisfactory basketball action is simply unacceptable.

Gradius Collection is a definite must for any shooter fan. It can be played for months or just a few hours depending on your attention span and how far you want to get in each game. Those looking for fun and a challenge will not be disappointed.

Liberty City Stories is a summer time treat for PS2 owners who haven't played the PSP version. Even though it's an almost direct port, the control system is vastly improved on the PS2 and the budget price just seals the deal for this full length GTA adventure.

If you attempt to unlock everything in this game you can expect it to last about 15 hours or so. The average gamer will probably get five to eight hours out of it before they've seen most of it and start to get bored. I would definitely recommend renting this for a weekend before committing to a purchase.

If you attempt to unlock everything in this game you can expect it to last about 15 hours or so. The average gamer will probably get five to eight hours out of it before they've seen most of it and start to get bored. I would definitely recommend renting this for a weekend before committing to a purchase.

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.

While the obnoxious ads shouldn't be taken into account when critiquing a title, its poor execution of nearly every aspect of gameplay warrants plenty of scolding. Placing players in a position early for failure, then failing to reward them with engaging gameplay or satisfactory basketball action is simply unacceptable.

If you attempt to unlock everything in this game you can expect it to last about 15 hours or so. The average gamer will probably get five to eight hours out of it before they've seen most of it and start to get bored. I would definitely recommend renting this for a weekend before committing to a purchase.

If you attempt to unlock everything in this game you can expect it to last about 15 hours or so. The average gamer will probably get five to eight hours out of it before they've seen most of it and start to get bored. I would definitely recommend renting this for a weekend before committing to a purchase.

The stylus is used to select answers and navigate the menu system. It’s nothing that couldn’t be done with a normal controller but it’s more convenient and precise. You can choose the correct answer immediately without having to scroll through choices or manipulate a cursor. The menu system is easy to access and while it may lack visual pizzazz, it’s clean, simple and easy enough on the eyes. Overall the presentation is lacking but this is a budget-priced game and it accomplishes what it sets out to do.

A fun game but it has no lasting appeal. Even the two-player mode becomes more like a game of chance than a game of skill when player of equal caliber have outgrown the simplistic control system.

A fun game but it has no lasting appeal. Even the two-player mode becomes more like a game of chance than a game of skill when player of equal caliber have outgrown the simplistic control system.

If you’re a Half-Life fan, you simply can’t ignore this one. If you’re not a Half-Life fan, prepare to become one.

The tutorial sets the stage for a pleasurable experience, but shoddy game modes, AI, and visuals kill the moment.

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.

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 tutorial sets the stage for a pleasurable experience, but shoddy game modes, AI, and visuals kill the moment.

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.

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 tutorial sets the stage for a pleasurable experience, but shoddy game modes, AI, and visuals kill the moment.

The game is a mindless, simplistic punching bag that will either be music to your eyes, ears and thumbs or a crushing disappointment for those looking for more depth (note to self: lower your expectations of superhero games, dude).

The game is a mindless, simplistic punching bag that will either be music to your eyes, ears and thumbs or a crushing disappointment for those looking for more depth.

I’m all for something different, but the fact that the developers don’t even attempt to acknowledge that their tongue is planted firmly in their cheeks makes me think that they expect us to take this game seriously. There’s not enough mind-altering chemicals on the planet to make that a reality.

For a budget title, things could certainly be a whole lot worse. It’s worth a rental at the least, and if you can find some online play then you might just want to consider purchasing it. It’s fun, challenging, captivating, diverse – and cheap.

For a budget title, things could certainly be a whole lot worse. It’s worth a rental at the least, and if you can find some online play then you might just want to consider purchasing it. It’s fun, challenging, captivating, diverse – and cheap.

This might be the last kick at the can for M&M but unless it can offer something more than some new graphics and a few new features, I can’t say I would be looking forward to the sixth version.

It's obvious that the developers spent a long time adapting the single-player mode to compensate for the lack of the online mode. The four-player co-op mode is played via the ad-hock wireless system. Having players equipped with different weapons, both Blade and Gunner style, you will be able to hunt effectively as a team by ambushing the creatures, flanking them or forcing them down paths loaded with traps. [JPN Import]

Many aspects of the game become tedious after awhile, but once you get past the 6 hour or more mark, there is a lot more to do in terms of story and adventure.

Taking this game seriously is akin to committing intellectual suicide. I can't even believe that this game is tied into the Jaws license. I won't say that the game drags the license down into the depths, but it barely treads water with it.

For a budget title, things could certainly be a whole lot worse. It's worth a rental at the least, and if you can find some online play then you might just want to consider purchasing it. It's fun, challenging, captivating, diverse – and cheap.

If you’re a "Virtua Tennis" fan you simply owe it to yourself to play ball with Table Tennis.

The combat is kind of strange. It doesn't seem congruent given the subject matter. It's like adding a new book to the Bible called, Popeye.

The combat is kind of strange. It doesn't seem congruent given the subject matter. It's like adding a new book to the Bible called, Popeye.

Everything considered, the gameplay, the graphics, the dialog, the music, make X-Men: The Official Game an officially average game.

Everything considered, the gameplay, the graphics, the dialog, the music, make X-Men: The Official Game an officially average game.

Everything considered, the gameplay, the graphics, the dialog, the music, make X-Men: The Official Game an officially average game.

Everything considered, the gameplay, the graphics, the dialog, the music, make X-Men: The Official Game an officially average game.

Everything considered, the gameplay, the graphics, the dialog, the music, make X-Men: The Official Game an officially average game.

The combat is kind of strange. It doesn't seem congruent given the subject matter. It's like adding a new book to the Bible called, Popeye.

The sounds are fantastic. It's like having an arcade in the palm of your hands. "Is that an arcade in your pocket or are you just happy to see me?"