The true letdown, though, is that the master villains can still be supremely frustrating to defeat, requiring several replays and exhaustive bouts of highly patterned attacks.

Another hard-hitting, fast-action, brutal-but-bloodless battle with Barbie-doll gals battling Schwarzeneggerish behemoths....Sound ridiculous? It is, but it's also a whole lot of fun.

The graphics are the best ever seen in a fighting game.

Instead of flying over hills and sometimes jumping into buildings, as you do in "Rush," MC keeps the racing more down-to-earth.

Graphics are about as good as they're likely to get on the Xbox... But close-ups, particularly textures in some of the outdoor environments, are jarringly ugly when juxtaposed with the many areas of sheer beauty.

While the midair stunts and crashes look painfully real, the game also seems to lack a convincing sensation of speed.

What differentiates "NASCAR Racing 4" from the many racing games on the market? In a word, it's detail.

Features excellent production and plenty of aerial dog-fighting, but the Microsoft video game doesn't soar.

"Soul Calibur" revolutionizes (3D Fighting) with amazing graphics, intriguing characters and an incredibly smooth 60 frame per second game engine.

The game is really fun despite all of the tasks you have to remember.

Another minor issue with the game is with the PlayStation 2 version; while the graphics are quite impressive, the speed of the game play seems to lag other platforms (namely, the PC), as well as the competition's hockey games.

Savvy joystick jockeys will be able to finish the story mode in about 10 hours or so, not including the extra game modes. Fortunately, the game is so much fun that you'll want to play it again and again.

The jewel in the crown of an action/strategy sub-genre best described as "violence with a mission."

It may not be a lengthy adventure, but it sure is an intense and gratifying one.

This atmospheric whodunit differs from others thanks to its moody film noir-style tone.

The multiple game modes and environments, new wrestlers and intuitive control makes WWF Smackdown 2!: Know Your Role one of the best wrestling games to date, on any platform.

A decent workout routine generator with fun games that will keep you interested and sweaty.

A classic Nintendo racing game cocktail with a twist of Wi-Fi.

An interesting re-imagining of the Matrix story in the form of an action game with OK controls and annoying camera.

An interesting re-imagining of the Matrix story in the form of an action game with OK controls and annoying camera.

An interesting re-imagining of the Matrix story in the form of an action game with OK controls and annoying camera.

Just be sure not to make any plans until the summer - it may very well take you that long to finish this elaborate role-playing game.

Unlike Hollywood horror movies that often get worse with each new sequel ("Friday the 13th Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan," for example), Konami's scary Silent Hill series gets better -- and creepier -- with age.

Players can create their own custom BMX tracks with the bundled 3-D course editor, offering more than 100 variations of ramps, rails and other obstacles.

Unlike Hollywood horror movies that often get worse with each new sequel ("Friday the 13th Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan," for example), Konami's scary Silent Hill series gets better -- and creepier -- with age.

Graphics are stunning.

One of the most innovative games to grace the GameCube. But its unrestricted style of game play isn't for everyone. Younger players may prefer video games that pack more action.

While not a perfect piece of interactive entertainment, it's enjoyable, and thanks to the way you can customize the Doodles, it's fun to play again and again.

The game adds enough new missions, locations, structures, weapons and units to justify its purchase and will likely keep you clicking until the wee hours of the morning.

If there was ever a reason to purchase this compact new console, this is it...[but] there's no multiplayer mode. It would have been fun to fly alongside or against another player in some of the missions.

Thrill-seekers in search of a stylized 3-D shooter with a compelling story will find plenty of both in Ubi Soft's XIII.

Rumble Racing is one fast game — redrawing the graphics on the screen at roughly 60 frames-per-second (twice that of television) — so those with a need for speed should strap in for a ride.

If you are looking for a challenging and atmospheric brainteaser that places an emphasis on puzzles rather than reflexes, then this four-disc set is a good bet.

Designed for younger players, "Casper: Spirit Dimensions" is a fun and attractive action-adventure hybrid.

This new "bad boy" of the video game industry is extremely fun to play — for those old enough and mature enough to purchase it — as a campy stress releaser at the end of a bad day.

If speed kills, then F-Zero GX should get a life sentence.

This title feels as good as it looks thanks to its tight and responsive handling.

Perseverance will pay off, but mastering this game can be frustrating.

Video games based on TV franchises don't always live up to the shows that inspired them. Fortunately, Buffy the Vampire Slayer is an exception.

There aren't enough save points so you might have to replay hours worth of the game if the adventuring party dies far from a save point. Despite this beef, Symphonia succeeds because of its deep battle system, stylish graphics and enormous game world.

Sony's latest is all about unadulterated cartoon action, with dozens of crazy weapons and gadgets at the player's disposal.

Thrill-seekers in search of a stylized 3-D shooter with a compelling story will find plenty of both in Ubi Soft's XIII.

EA Sports has put considerable effort into improving this franchise by adding more game modes, an intuitive swing mechanism, online play, lifelike graphics, plus more depth, options and customizability. No other golf game is on par.

EA Sports has put considerable effort into improving this franchise by adding more game modes, an intuitive swing mechanism, online play, lifelike graphics, plus more depth, options and customizability. No other golf game is on par.

EA Sports has put considerable effort into improving this franchise by adding more game modes, an intuitive swing mechanism, online play, lifelike graphics, plus more depth, options and customizability. No other golf game is on par.

Successfully fuses brains with brawn, and delivers one heck of a memorable team-based, multiplayer experience.

This title feels as good as it looks thanks to its tight and responsive handling.

Savvy gamers can also unlock Snoop Dogg as a playable character.

The extra missions can be played as either Solid Snake or Raiden, the two heroes from last year's hit game. The VR missions are equally compelling.

The characters in Legends have an exaggerated action-figure look, but they move smoothly and have a robust collection of moves.

The cinematic sequences, which propel the story line, have an anime quality that is dark, foreboding and engrossing.

Does have one noticeable omission. In the Xbox title, gamers can choose to play the campaign mode alongside another player. This isn't an online option on the Windows version, which is disappointing because it would be fun to run through the story mode cooperatively with a friend.

From the first few notes of Steppenwolf's “Magic Carpet Ride” to the victory lap at the end of the season, NASCAR Thunder 2003 proves to be the most enjoyable NASCAR racing game yet on any console.

An intense, gritty World War II-themed action game played from a vertigo-inducing first-person perspective.

It won't win any awards for originality, but it's good enough to shrink your nightly sleep to just a couple of hours.

This tale includes more than 3,000 nonplayer characters (NPCs) and hundreds of monsters to interact with, giving the impression this open-ended (and certainly nonlinear) game is as limitless as the player's imagination and time.

Because of its wealth of game modes and many tricks, "MX 2002" has a long life span, so players who invest in the game will likely get a lot of bang for their buck.

The game slows down when the track is full of cars. Plus, you might find your attention distracted by an over-detailed landscape that washes out the course ahead.

One of the game's greatest assets is its intuitive control scheme. Novice and seasoned players will be able to pick up and play with little trouble. There are customizable options for manual or automatic swing modes.

Isn't for everyone. The game lacks speech and some of the Japanese-to-English translations don't read welI. What's more, the music repeats too often. But after a while depth of this RPG grows on you. That said, it's probably not for people with short attention spans.

A dangerously addictive diversion to monkey around with.

Yet another stellar sci-fi game. But this time around, the game play requires cunning strategy and tactics rather than a quick trigger finger.

It goes in a different direction, simulating the feel of televised tournament coverage. PGA Tour comes with multiple courses and a "Course Architect" creation tool.

While the cartoon like graphics are cute, they hardly take advantage of the Xbox's power. Many of the enemies and objects in the rooms lack detail. This noticeable shortcoming shouldn't detract much from the fun - and often frantic - game play.

Maintains a retro feel with plenty of humorous touches as well.

It remains enjoyable and challenging with considerable replayability even if it's not going to take home any awards for visuals or challenge the popularity of the bestselling "Tony Hawk" titles.

The story is slow at first, but patient players will find it ultimately becomes one of the game's stronger features, along with its atmospheric visuals.

From the first few notes of Steppenwolf's “Magic Carpet Ride” to the victory lap at the end of the season, NASCAR Thunder 2003 proves to be the most enjoyable NASCAR racing game yet on any console.

What it lacks in originality it more than makes up for with its fun and easy-to-pick-up game play that will appeal to fans of the long-running comedy.

Unfortunately, Half-Life’s puzzle-oriented play leads to some problems. On several occasions, you’ll be forced to make almost impossible jumps. The difficulty of such maneuvers finds you making 10, sometimes 15 attempts. The frustration distances you from a story that should have you absorbed.

It doesn't win high marks for ingenuity. But a massively multiplayer adventure based on this coveted universe is exciting.

From the first few notes of Steppenwolf's “Magic Carpet Ride” to the victory lap at the end of the season, NASCAR Thunder 2003 proves to be the most enjoyable NASCAR racing game yet on any console.

An intense sequel that shines in both its solo and multiplayer modes.

Deep where it counts — the game play.

Year after year, ESPN NFL Football (formerly NFL2K4) inches closer to becoming the "must have" football game. Almost.

A slower-paced, puzzle-based game without any combat. But for those who'd rather use their brains instead of brawn, it's a solid pick.

For combat flight sim enthusiasts, IL-2 Sturmovik is a dream thanks to its countless solo missions, meaty historical campaign, smooth multiplayer options, flexible customization, accurate handling and great graphics.

This story-based, action-adventure title is probably the most gratifying Xbox-only game this summer, even though it does have some flaws.

Thrill-seekers in search of a stylized 3-D shooter with a compelling story will find plenty of both in Ubi Soft's XIII.

Visually speaking, Resident Evil 0 is the best-looking game in the series to date. Players can expect photo-realistic environments, smoothly animated characters and creepy lighting effects.

A throwback to the good old days of unadulterated combat with boatloads of wacky enemies and sci-fi weapons. Action fans will love this game.

Almost every aspect of this series has been tweaked, from the graphics to the artificial intelligence to the TV-style presentation (new camera angles and more commentary for starters).

A perfect game for "guy's night" at home.

EA Sports has put considerable effort into improving this franchise by adding more game modes, an intuitive swing mechanism, online play, lifelike graphics, plus more depth, options and customizability. No other golf game is on par.

Kudos to the developers for including a new game mode, multiplayer options and more suitable visuals to the console.

While its game play is good, its graphics and sound are unsurpassed.

What it lacks in originality it more than makes up for with its fun and easy-to-pick-up game play that will appeal to fans of the long-running comedy.

Perseverance will pay off, but mastering this game can be frustrating.

Virtually the same as the PS One version, although the PS2 game has superior graphics and faster, smoother play.

The English voice-overs (a first for the series) are a mixed bag because some words are translated oddly and the voice acting from the Tidus character could be better. The music, on the other hand, is extremely well done.

One of the better expansions for The Sims owners, and especially for pet lovers.

Year after year, ESPN NFL Football (formerly NFL2K4) inches closer to becoming the "must have" football game. Almost.

Without a doubt, Doom 3 is the most visually appealing and best sounding PC game to date, but it doesn't bring anything new to the "3-D shooter" genre in terms of the game play, which is basically 1993's Doom all over again.

From the first few notes of Steppenwolf's “Magic Carpet Ride” to the victory lap at the end of the season, NASCAR Thunder 2003 proves to be the most enjoyable NASCAR racing game yet on any console.

Savvy gamers can also unlock Snoop Dogg as a playable character.

In this Game Boy Advance version, "Yugi" fans can duel against dozens of opponents from the TV series or link up with another Game Boy Advance player to duel head-to-head and to trade virtual cards.

Unfortunately, the game's graphics are about the same as its predecessor's, and no multiplayer split-screen or online modes are offered.

This title feels more like an arcade game than a serious simulation, so players who crave an authentic experience probably would prefer Sierra's "NASCAR Racing 4" for the PC, where you drive using a game controller with a steering wheel and pedals.