A graphical and technological marvel that offers slick graphics, smooth online play, and groundbreaking communication features. You owe it to yourself to experience it.

Ends up being a quirky gem in the Dreamcast catalog thanks to rock-solid gameplay, great graphics, and a loopy sense of humor. Best of all, players are guaranteed to see improvement in their typing if they log some time into the game.

Boasting some of the most impressive physics and visuals ever to find their way into a current-generation console racer, VP is another of those damnable "must-have" titles for anyone who appreciates a finely tuned driving experience mated to state-of-the-art graphics.

Although the game may look like a kids' title, Donald Duck: Goin' Quackers has enough depth and challenge to keep even the most seasoned gamer busy.

This game not only has everything that an add-on pack should have -- fresh units, a new campaign, and new multiplayer maps and modes -- but it has one thing that most don't: a goose-egg price tag.

Casual gamers, however, should skip this title (unless they're WWII plane enthusiasts), because the learning curve is steep.

The premise is twisted, and the game looks hauntingly beautiful; if only it weren't lacking in a few key gameplay areas, it would easily be one of the most fun, interesting, and memorable games of the last few years.

Yeah, Giants has its flaws, but it's one of the most competent -- and clever -- action games we've laid our hands on,

The great combat system and engaging story truly make the game a gem, not only on the Dreamcast but in the RPG genre as a whole.

By delivering awesome graphics and intense, fright-filled gameplay, RE2 makes for a scary romp you won't want to miss.

Arcade racing aficionados might be daunted by the learning curve, but sim fans will find enough depth here to keep playing for a long, long time.

EverQuest reaches a certain peak and maturity with The Scars of Velious, further solidifying the franchise as the premiere massively multiplayer online RPG.

Introduces many new and interesting elements into the sometimes stale RTS genre; although it has a moderate learning curve, fans of the genre will want to pick this one up.

As a patch it would be near-perfect; it successfully addresses several key concerns, adds one seriously compelling new element, and generally turns a very good racing experience into an exceptional one. Certainly, this is the game EA should have released in the first place.

A good game. Real-time fans may like it, and turn-based gamers will like it. And no one will deny that it is unique. If you're a big fan of the series, this fourth installment is a must-buy.

With an excellent story line, interesting characters, dazzling visuals, and distinct soundtrack, Breath of Fire IV is well worth the time of any RPG fan who's looking for a mature gaming experience.

Its combination of colorful, accurate cartoon-themed graphics and tight gameplay will have you hootin' and hollerin' all winter long.

While the AI has a few problems, and there is an occasional rough spot, the finished product is one of the most complete and compelling games we've played, and easily the best MechWarrior game in the series.

With more than 50 WWF superstars, a fantastic array of matches, and unparalleled, blisteringly fast gameplay, it's the only squared-circle brawler you need to buy. Anything else, especially the horrendous "WCW Backstage Assault," isn't worth your time.

The gameplay is what's key. Banjo-Tooie offers one of the best platforming experiences on the Nintendo 64.

Packed with a plethora of wrestlers, features, and gameplay options, WWF: No Mercy is all the wrestling game you'll ever need and then some.

Offers an astounding 50 hours or so of gameplay, and when it was over we wanted more.

A unique gameplay experience. If you can leave the guns, bombs, monsters, and aliens behind, you'll find plenty of variety and replayability here to keep you hooked for some time.

Along with the sharp graphics, RE3 features outstanding sound and music.

With Chessmaster 8000, Mattel Interactive doesn't necessarily reinvent its classic series, but it further refines what is already the most comprehensive chess title on the market.

Even if you're not a Trekker, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine -- The Fallen still offers some pretty solid action/adventure with top-notch production values

Even though the gameplay is up to par, the graphics need to keep up with the times.

One of the best console strategy games ever made.

Continues the series' long-standing tradition of quality in one of the most compelling RPGs ever. This is the last Final Fantasy game that will appear on the PlayStation, and SquareSoft has definitely saved its best for last.

Combining tried-and-true platformer elements that make platform games great with an awesome graphics engine and humorous, endearing characters, The Emperor's New Groove guarantees fun for all ages.

The game takes an excellent story, interesting world, and engaging gameplay and wraps it all in some of the best graphics seen on the system to date.

May feel more like a classic Bond Marathon on TBS, rather than the instant-gratification spy movies we have seen in recent years.

One of the most evilly entertaining time-wasters since the original "Quake."

The best adventure game we've played in recent years, and an instant classic.

The most faithful representation of GT and Prototype sports car racing on the market.

Any game that lets you lop off the head of your enemy and then use it as a weapon has our vote.

A refreshing change of pace from the usually horrid Army Men franchise thanks to its top-notch action, improved mission structure, cleaner visuals, and added multiplayer elements.

Featuring improved graphics and tighter control, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2 is all but assured legendary status.

From its open-ended campaign and mind-searing graphics to its wide variety of multiplayer options, Sacrifice is one of those few games that manage to do just about everything right.

If "GoldenEye" was the Sean Connery of Bond games, and "Tomorrow Never Dies" was George Lazenby, then The World Is Not Enough is a likable Roger Moore--showing its age, in it for the money, and prone to bouts of slowdown, but still sporting that old Bond magic.

It is, without a doubt, the best basketball game on any console.

Classic blast-everything-in-sight gameplay that's wildly entertaining and highly addictive.

The gameplay is a nice mix of intricate strategy and fast-paced action; online play is an option; and commentators John Motson and Mark Lawrenson are back, accents and all.

The questions are clever and the banter from the game's host continues to be deliciously sarcastic. Those features, combined with an excellent Online Play mode, will surely make this a must-grab for any YDKJ fan.

If you are searching for a truly exceptional first-generation PlayStation 2 title that offers fast action, excellent gameplay, and splendid visual pageantry, you had better buy yourself a copy of SSX the minute you pick up your PS2.

The best NBA hoops game on the system.

A visually gorgeous game that combines awesome graphics, fresh gameplay, irresistible music, and incredible design in a polished package that is a true original.

Deep gameplay and cross-platform online racing make 4x4 Evolution the best 4x4 game going.

One of the best fighters available for the PlayStation 2, thanks to rock-solid gameplay that overshadows minor graphical issues.

The best skateboarding experience going on the PC -- and given the improved graphics, it is arguably the best version of the game out there.

From the revamped graphics to the refined gameplay, this is arcade fighting at its best.

The graphics in Ridge Racer V are definitely the game's strong point--most notably, the frame rate. The game runs at a blinding 60 frames per second, which is near TV quality.

Not only contains top-notch gameplay, but it's also the most realistic-looking sports game to ever hit a console

Stunning, optimized graphics; immersive, rich sound; refined, complex, and deep gameplay; and a mature, gripping plot make it a game that you won't want to miss.

Though crappy brakes take away some of the game's drivability, the superb graphics and special effects still offer a winning combination for DC off-road enthusiasts.

When you get right down to it, this is the best-looking, best-playing, and most full-featured golf game on the market, bar none.

The new game offers impressive graphics mixed with familiar gameplay for a conservative sequel that does the series proud.

Combining slick graphics, fast-as-hell gameplay, and an incredibly deep set of features and options, TimeSplitters has what it takes to make the PS2 a premier platform for shoot-'em-up multiplayer action.

There are instances where players phase through each other as they return to their respective huddles after a play. While they certainly don't ruin the game, these little inconsistencies must be noted.

Even though it offers the same style of gameplay, its alternate story line, engaging action, and excellent musical score will have you sneaking behind enemy lines until the wee hours of the morning.

Improved graphics and new modes and characters are combined with solid gameplay that's been tweaked for the better to make for a dependable and entertaining sequel.

Shorter scenarios, smarter AI, and extensive military features make the game much more fun and intriguing, and the mythology aspects add a whole new dynamic.

Without a doubt, the best PC-to-console port ever seen.

Red Alert 2 proves to be one of the finest offerings in the C&C series.

With various enthralling single-player modes and a smooth online play option, if this isn't one of the best racing games we've played this year, it sure is one of the most fun.

The focal points of the game, the fish, are simply stunning. With fluid animations; bright, clear textures; and a nice reflective sheen, they're very convincing virtual fish.

It's a lot harder to get the full fruity experience that is Samba de Amigo without the maracas. Unfortunately, the maraca controllers -- which are sold separately -- will set gamers back 80 bucks a pair.

While it would've been nice to re-create some of the truly significant aerial engagements of the war, such as the Battle of Midway and the Great Marianas Turkey Shoot, Combat Flight Simulator 2 is nevertheless an excellent game.

Anyone with the slightest interest in historical-strategy gaming will love this title.

Like all Psygnosis games, Rollcage Stage II is full of eye candy, with flashy graphics and colorful decor up the wazoo.

The folks at Insomniac have built an incredibly detailed, fun, and immersive action/adventure that is definitely worth picking up, whether or not you're familiar with this franchise.

EA Sports delivers its strongest installment yet in the PC's best motorcycle racing series.

While weaker in the graphics department than its predecessor, this game still delivers punch.

Great graphics and sound, tried-and-true gameplay, and wall-to-wall blasting mayhem make this a winner.

EA Sports delivers its most solid hockey game yet -- NHL 2001 could be the best sports game released this year.

By combining excellent graphics, strong gameplay, superlative control, and outstanding features, it's a fitting end to an excellent era in console hockey.

This game whips "Sydney 2000" for overall fun, graphics, and playability, and "Virtua Athlete 2000" in depth.

Possibly the best and biggest RPG you'll ever play.

Perhaps the best modern tank simulator on the market.

A supremely well-crafted port of the popular coin-op racer that sets a lofty new standard for fidelity and realism in console driving games.

The levels are well designed, and the game's weapons are damn cool and pack a real punch.

The best skateboarding game ever and one of the greatest PlayStation games of all time.

Featuring an all-new game engine to complement its fully licensed collection of Winston Cup drivers and tracks, NASCAR 2001 is a very slick and entertaining new addition to the series.

Paradigm has done an excellent job of re-creating a cartoon universe with colorful characters, hilarious animation, and eye-popping visuals that are fun for all ages.

While it's certainly not a revolutionary offering, NFL Blitz 2001 contains a nice variety of gameplay modes and exhaustive editing features that should keep fans of frenetic arcade football happy.

You can tell from the beginning that this game is a visual feast: the graphics are gorgeous, and combat is a blast to watch.

The added improvements, like the new wings, will ensure gaming pleasure for months to come.

While NFL 2K1's gameplay and presentation are stellar, it's the advent of network play that will really set the game apart from anything else on the market.

Easily the best in the series and one of the best first-person shooters on the system.

There could be a bit more variety to the sound clips, but it doesn't matter much--after the fourth or fifth time you hear "Pi-ka-chu!" you'll be pushed to the brink of madness anyway.

Even with its twitchy control and funky camera angles, it's a top-notch action/adventure worthy of the moniker. Excelsior!

UFC doesn't KO the rest of the Dreamcast's brawling lineup as the best title on the system, but its solid fighting-game engine and distinct mixture of realistic fighting styles and brutal moves make it one fun, tough customer.

It may be a "Gran Turismo" clone, but it's still as stunning and immersive a driving experience as you're ever going to find on the Dreamcast

Lifelike tennis action with whimsical Mario Bros.-style flair that's insanely addictive and provides more fun than you could possibly imagine.

This year's game has excellent graphics, a great frame rate, fluid gameplay, and plenty of new features.

Hard-core fans will love how the new features affect long-term gameplay, and casual players will find some of the more outrageous scenarios quite amusing.

A solid combat flight sim that rivals many PC games for challenge and realism.

At this price and with these features, "Microsoft Golf 2001 Edition" cannot be ignored.