While it would be easy to scoff at the game's repetitive level design, a refreshing combat system means that Infamous 2 is still great fun to play. The addition of user generated content doesn't excuse the game's shortcomings, such as poor characterization, a predictable story and repetitious level design, but it does go some way to prove that Infamous has a lot more to give. There's a fantastic game tucked away inside in Infamous 2. Unfortunately, it's up to you to build it...

Finally, visually the game is simply outstanding, one of the best looking games to grace the Xbox 360. It runs perfectly, with animations that are simply awe-inspiring and tag-team switchovers which look simply stunning. This may not be the ideal game for those select few 'hardcore' fighting fans, for the rest of the world Tekken Tag Tournament 2 is by far the best choice in its genre.

The most important aspect to fans of the series is obliviously going to be how the game performs in multiplayer, which rest assured is fantastic.

If you have already played this on the Xbox 360, there’s little different here to warrant a second play though, however, Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 is worthy of a purchase for those yet to experience its delights.

There is a lot of game for your MS Points here, with plenty of achievement challenges that will keep you busy for a long while.

Despite it's flaws, Alan Wake is not a game you can miss out on.

Brutal Legend lives up to the hype. The combination of a humorous action-adventure story with music and gameplay to match, makes the game one of the most unique titles on the market at the moment.

Overall, Dust is a great game that should not be overlooked. This year's 'Summer of Arcade' has been a bit disappointing, and out of all the games released Dust:An Elsyian Tail has got to be the ruling champion. There are some big budget boxed games coming out towards the end of August, but they should not eclipse this great game that should be on everyone's 'to buy' list.

The control system is what stood out to me the most on PES2008 Wii. At first, it can be confusing, as players are pointing the Wii-mote and shaking the nunchuk all over the place but the superbly created in-game tutorials are there to help you understand.

Overall, Ms. 'Splosion Man is a great old school styled platformer that takes what the first game did great, and makes it even better. With single player being around the twelve to fifteen hour range, and multiplayer weighing in at around the same, it's a great value. And for only 800 MS Points, you can't beat it.

Defense Grid provides all that is great about Tower Defense games and suffers from none of the pitfalls.

Rainbow Six Vegas 2 is an exciting, challenging, single player and multi-player experience which will keep you on the edge of your seats.

Dance Central is an accomplished start that could well herald a series of follow-ups. The Kinect technology is used effectively and whilst it appears basic at first, is quite possibly one of the hardest launch titles if you have no rhythm. Overcome the initial fear of looking a fool and you'll find the fancy footwork and body movements are the perfect way to enjoy some drunken tomfoolery with your friends.

With the lack of the customisation and overall support of the PC version, veterans may find the game a tad gimped, at least for the time being. But for newcomers, or strictly console gamers, The Xbox 360 version is the perfect time to jump in.

There are a zillion game modes to keep both hardcore and casual fans happy, and minus my troubles with Xbox LIVE I’ve enjoyed my 2K experience.

Overall Tiger Woods 09 is a fantastic update in the franchise and continues to show that EA Games aren’t just about churning out games year after year, but more about improving them to the highest standard possible.

Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise is – quite embarrassingly – one of the best titles I have played this year.

It may be only a slight improvement over FIFA 10, however it is hard to ignore the magic that an event like the World Cup can bring to the title.

Overall Trenched is a fun action game that can require teamwork and planning to complete with the highest rating, that being a gold medal. It has a few online issues, but is still very enjoyable - and with a good four hour campaign if you blaze through it. The game is very replayable, especially with the medal and challenge systems; plenty of unlockables to be had.

Unreal Tournament 3 is all about the action. It isn't deep, but it is immensely fun.

To conclude, Blur: The Video Game is one of the better arcade racers in recent times. Whilst the game doesn’t bring anything new to the table in terms of gameplay, Blur certainly is genre-defying – implementing the use of power-ups incredibly well; as well as offering a thoroughly in-depth online multiplayer.

How shocked I was to find that the more hours I spent investing into Darksiders, the more rewarding it felt. Darksiders feels like a breath of fresh air, a step in the right direction and a reinvention of formulas that are sorely missed when used at this level of quality.

Mega Man 9 was probably created for retro-freaks like me, however any gamer who loves a challenge will feel right at home with Mega Man 9.

Brutal Legend lives up to the hype. The combination of a humorous action-adventure story with music and gameplay to match, makes the game one of the most unique titles on the market at the moment.

Fallout New Vegas is a fantastic game that in its vast, interesting, flavour-filled world has something for everyone.

Strong sound effects and some great background music make Castle Crashers a great game to turn up the speakers for, despite no audio within the story mode.

It's everything I expected from a sequel to Butcher Bay and more. It's just that Butcher Bay just had that little something to make it an fantastic game. Luckily, it's included with Dark Athena.

For the princely sum of £4, Flight Control HD is a title you can pick up on a whim, it's worth taking the risk that you might not like it at that price, but I guarantee the chances are you'll have a fun time on the cheap. If you have a Move controller it's an essential purchase – the game comes highly recommended.

Anyone that loves Marvel, Capcom, fighting games or games in general needs to pick up this game. At around £12 it's much easier than having to dig around bargain bins or eBay to find a Dreamcast copy.

Basically if you have missed the wastelands, Broken Steel gives you more than enough reasons to return. Keeping with the high quality set by the original, Broken Steel gives you more engrossing content for up to five hours of gameplay, whilst increasing the story behind the game whilst removing the full stop.

The Wii Wheel and the wide open online courses all make it a lot less difficult for first time karters.

Overall, Split/Second: Velocity is a fantastic arcade racing title.

When all is said and done Oddworld Stranger's Wrath is a great addition to a great series. Yes it has flaws and it is by no means perfect, but what it lacks in some technical areas it makes up for in charm and originality. You don't have to be an Oddworld expert or even have played any of the previous titles to enjoy Stranger's Wrath, but if you are in need of original design and atmosphere with some great humour thrown in then you may just want to check out everything Oddworld has to offer.

Ultimately Platinum has managed to deliver on the vision that Kojima first announced back in 2009, and it's a roller coaster ride from start to end. The gameplay is the forefront of importance for the genre and it’s there that they’ve certainly managed to deliver.

Overall Pro Evolution Soccer 2013 is a great step in the right direction for the series. There's still plenty of areas that can be improved, specifically the online aspect of gaming, yet more licenses and the menu system could do with an overhaul, but if you're looking for an alternative to *the other game*, or are a Pro Evolution Soccer loyal through and through, you will not be disappointed with what's on offer here.

Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed is a remarkable title that takes three types of racing genres and somehow successfully combines them in such a way that your heart will vigorously pound with excitement, while your adrenaline enriched soul will never tire of the lush environments and epic races.

Final Fantasy seems to have fallen in a rut, but if you can put up with the linearity for long enough, there is an interesting story and game at its heart. That said, even hard-core Final Fantasy fans are going to struggle to find an A++ RPG here.

Best of the 2D Sonic games.

A very decent football simulation, mixing both stunning graphics with some well-thought gameplay.

ModNation Racers is a well-crafted racer that is certainly worth taking out for a spin.

Enslaved feels very much like the odyssey it professes in its subtitle. The ten hour epic takes you through some wonderful landscapes as well as the emotional journey of the characters, pushed forwards by a terrific script and great voice acting. It is most definitely flawed but it's not a game you're going to forget easily.

A great addition to the Halo series. Whilst it’s not perfect, the rendition to a real-time strategy was a gamble worth taking and will be enjoyed by RTS and Halo fans alike.

If you are coming from the original title, there is enough depth here to warrant a purchase, just don’t expect a revolutionary successor to the first game, but more of an evolution to the franchise.

Sadly though it isn't too long before you get a bit tired of playing through a game that didn't need to be as deep or complex, where the old SSX formula didn't entirely make its way fully into the game. Let's hope SSX fans get to ride in much better conditions next season.

Don't let the 1,200 Microsoft Points price tag put you off. There is plenty of enjoyment to be had from Joe Danger 2: The Movie. While the developer, Hello Games, could have been more ambitious in moving the game forward, returning players will be happy with the new content that's on display. That's a wrap!

If you are in the mood for a new, fresh, and strange videogame with elements you've never seen together, then I suggest you give Catherine a whirl.

Despite the small selection of courses, and minor gripes with dialogue, the game really is addictive, both off and online.

In closing, it is worth picking up and mastering this game. There is a level system and unlock system that will reward players as they progress with multiple costumes, multiplayer badges and icons for your character. For any fan of the DC universe there is a huge array of characters with a great story mode and each has their own little story in the battle mode.

One shock was that the awesome 24/7 mode has been axed, in favour of the dubiously named Blacktop Mode. This is essentially a pick up and play selection of game types, designed for those that don’t understand basketball that well.

If you've already finished the main storyline of Kingdom of Amalur: Reckoning and you've had a good time exploring the main land for all the other side quests, The Legend of Dead Kel is a fantastic side adventure that ranges from four to ten hours of gameplay, more than worth the mere 800 Microsoft Point price tag.

For those looking for something to tide them over until Diablo III finally comes out, Torchlight should be your first port of call. However, if you already played the PC version, there is little here to make you buy it again.

If you like your dual stick games and don't mind shelling out 1200 Microsoft Points, this game is a must buy. Hopefully we will see the freezing issues sorted soon because if it wasn't for this, Renegade Ops would most certainly sit up there with the best of them.

My main issue with the game is that while the element of ‘fun’ makes the game quirky and amusing to play, underneath I can’t find the defining factor as to why I don’t enjoy it as much. Whether it is because a certain unnamed open-world action title has already been released this year and showed us what the potential of the console can do; then perhaps that is why.

The inclusion of online features add even more longevity to the game.

Overall Shift 2 is an excellent racing game that really tries to throw you behind the wheel of a professional driver. With great graphics minus a few debris issues and impressive car mechanics, Shift 2 will challenge the best of drivers during the single player campaign and online. Fans of Forza Motorsport 2 and Gran Turismo 5, or just racing games in general, should definitely think about getting Shift 2 to keep you busy.

The sheer attention to detail that has gone in the game, both in plot, visuals and audio makes your experience in the game a memorable one. The combat system, though tricky at first, eventually becomes intuitive.

Like some of the better Xbox Live Arcade titles, ilomilo is predominantly quality over quantity. While there's only a few hours play to be had, it's a thoroughly puzzling and enjoyable experience. Top it off with its heart-warming feel and ilomilo is certainly a game to consider purchasing, especially at 800 Microsoft Points.

Overall, Toy Soldiers is a fantastic effort at making war games more appealing to the masses.

Just Cause 2 is essentially the video games equivalent of Die Hard. The story is not that interesting but, by God, the explosions and fun you'll have along the way are so worth it.

RAGE has certainly delivered as a step forward in first person shooters and is a refreshing change from the same old games that are released year-in year-out

The Jak and Daxter Trilogy doesn't hold up very well as a remastered version of the original games.

The Dishwasher: Vampire Smile is one of the best Arcade titles of the year so far, and one unlikely to be surpassed by many other releases in 2011. Its mix of pure arcade fun and pitch-perfect difficulty, likably-sinister art direction, complimentary angry-rock soundtrack and wallet-pleasing lifespan make it a must for anyone with a connection to Xbox LIVE. In a word: essential.

With a humorous story and plenty of fun to be had in multiplayer modes, this game is well worth the selling price, but it still has a few little flaws. Skulls of the Shogun is a really nice arcade game, and with not many AAA titles out in these early months, this game will keep you occupied for some time.

The easy to pick-up control system, coupled with some enjoyable combat makes Assassin's Creed a good game despite the repetitive and sometimes laborious build up to each assassination.

Initially, Terraria is tedious and many players will be put off by the slow-pace and the constant dying at the beginning of the game. However, with a little persistence, this is an enjoyable title with depth.

The Kinect compatibility is a neat twist, alas I think EA will improve on this in future instalments, for now though it seems a little gimmicky. There are a few issues, most notably with the Defensive mechanics within the game and a few drunken animations. Despite this, for NFL fans there can only be one game that you just have to buy this year, that is of course Madden '13.

A very addictive game with great graphics.

Catan is a game that can appeal to almost every segment of the gaming market. If you’re young or old, fan of casual or hardcore games—it doesn’t matter.

My man-crush for Al Michaels notwithstanding, Madden 08 is the best entry into the series since it made the leap to this current-generation of consoles.

Whether combat is fast and gruesomely beautiful or at a halt leaving nothing but the scenery to admire, Ninja Gaiden II is presented beautifully.

What is on offer is probably a series high and it begs the question as with many of EA’s titles right now, what can be done next?

If you’re looking for a charming, fun and relaxing title to sink some hours into after a hard day, then Prince of Persia is the one for you. This is not a title that’s going to challenge or compel you to replay over and over.

Overall Buzz: Quiz World improves in every way over all editions of the series which makes it the best yet.

It was sad to have such a shallow and uninspiring storyline to keep you going until the very end, but with the game’s stunning visuals and effects, arcade pick up and play gameplay, online multiplayer and co-op features there is plenty here to satisfy your appetite in being the next Maverick or Ice Man.

Rockstar have done a good job of porting the game from thePlayStation 2 to one of the most entertaining XBOX 360 titles available.

Tekken is fun, nothing can take that away. Heavy looking characters and hard hitting battles are what Tekken fans are looking for, and this is certainly what the game delivers, it just doesn’t seem to have that sparkle this time around.

Rocket Riot is a blast. The game’s unique design and style makes it stand out against many of the other titles available on the Xbox LIVE Arcade, and at 800 Microsoft Points, this is yet another title to consider adding to your collection.

If you're an avid fan and follower of the Creed, you're sure to find plenty to please you but for those longing for answers and a step further for the series will find one step forward, two back, along with a thick fog covering up the path ahead.

If you're a fan of wrestling, you'll doubtless enjoy the game on a further level, but if not, it still makes a fun distraction from the class-a titles. It is an acquired taste though, so if you're not sure, this is definitely one to rent first.

But is it justifiable now to release a yearly installment or would they be better off releasing premium updates to current versions of the game? Only EA can answer that question, but they better start thinking fast because the series could become a little stale too soon.

Not only are the environments detailed and fitting the style of gameplay, but the character models are superb and show a great range of emotion, especially during the many cutscenes placed throughout each level.

Whereas younger gamers may not understand some of the game’s references, there’s still a lot of enjoyment to be had from the game and, with a campaign as long as a number of retail titles, you certainly get your money’s worth. At 1,200 Microsoft Points, Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon is a must purchase.

It's a shame that this may slip past the gaze of many for it truly is one of the best games that has been released this year. If you want your faith restored in the Driver franchise, then go out and buy Driver: San Francisco.

It’s one of the better re-makes on the Xbox Live Arcade though the lack of game modes is a slight disappointment, despite the fact that the ones evident in the game do a great job of keeping players entertained.

Overall, LEGO Lord of the Rings is a precious addition to the LEGO series. The game manages to keep the same charm and humour of the previous titles, and the new features are all very welcome.

That said, Disgaea continues to define the pinnacle of the TRPG mechanics and Nippon Ichi is clearly the master of this genre; just don't go expecting anything shiny and brand new from this latest outing. It remains though, a must buy for any fan of the series.

IL-2 builds on existing simulation titles that have been landing onto consoles recently, and is probably the best combat flight simulation title I have played on consoles to date. With its stunning visuals, audio score, well structured campaign and insightful exploits from our WW2 heroes, IL-2 will certainly send any budding fighter jock into a flying frenzy.

The barebones have always worked and EA has gone by the "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" idea and kept most of it the same. Instead, EA have thrown in a bunch of interesting extras that make a purchase worthwhile.

Going back to the opening question and whether there is anything bad about Sleeping Dogs, there are a few rough edges here and there but absolutely nothing to write home about. The overall experience from start to finish is brilliant and the only disappointment is the wait you'll have until some DLC hopefully comes out. Even if you're currently playing something right now I urge you to stop and go buy this right now!

Prologue is a superb game in general and if you can live without the online play as it’s a pain in the backside on most occasions, there’s no reason not to pick it up.

Fable III, as with the games before it, reaches for the stars with its ambitions, and for the most part manages to achieve them, even though the finale is somewhat weak.

With a little bit of tweaking, Dead Rising 2 could have been a little easier to control and I might have been able to save some of the helpless civilians, but overall I had a lot of fun in my 72 hour vacation in Fortune City. If you are looking for a game that has some decent replay value or simply loved the first game, then Dead Rising 2 is defiantly worth the money.

Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning isn't the RPG to end all RPGs, the characterisations might be a little dour and the plot a little to straight-laced for its own good, but its still an excellent example of a hybrid genre – and a triumph for 38 Studios and Big Huge Games in every sense that counts.

It combines the cuteness of Peanuts with the brilliance of Crimson Skies and creates one of the most surprising packages of 2010 and probably one of the best online experiences of this year.

The audio in UEFA Euro 2008 is also extremely great.

What is on offer is probably a series high and it begs the question as with many of EA’s titles right now, what can be done next?

Whether you’re new to the Geometry Warsgames or not, it’s still an enormously fun and addictive classic shooter.

Whether you are working on a Yoga pose, stretching your thighs, or going for that perfect down hill run, there is a quality and a depth to each of the activities. This speaks volumes about the investment (and commitment) Nintendo has to their causal gaming approach.