Ikachan is a wonderfully crafted game and a fitting homage to the NES era of gaming and to Metroid-esque game design. The art and sound design are wonderful. The gameplay is responsive and fun. The only question is whether one hour of gameplay is enough to justify the asking price. For many the answer will be yes.

With WiiWare definitely winding down now, it can only be hoped that people do not forget about the service completely since Vampire Crystals goes to show there are definitely some brilliant classics on the Wii download service that deserve people's attention.

The biggest accolade that can be given to Picross e2 is for its accessibility towards people of all ages, with it proving to be the perfect companion to pass away the small minutes of downtime everyone experiences whilst also helping keep the brain fresh.

Wreck-It Ralph is a solid platform adventure with a few enjoyable character-swapping puzzles thrown in. Unfortunately, it is over before it begins, lacks any multiplayer, skimps on the extras, and generally runs out of steam in the creative stakes. Whilst competent for the most part, it really does feel like a missed opportunity, especially given the amount of cameos that made it into the film but are absent here.

50 Classic Games on Nintendo 3DS shows that cerasus.media definitely knows how to collect an intriguing bunch of family favourites from over the years. However, with no multiplayer options, no online features, and in some cases no reason to even challenge certain 'attractions,' it means that what was potentially a must-have compilation of classics instead turns out to be a mish-mash of styles that merely passes the time but lacks the draw for long-term play with friends and family.

Rabbids Rumble may not have turned into the Smash Bros. copycat some thought it might be, but it is a very enjoyable mini-game experience with some engaging Pokémon-esque battles included. Headstrong Games shows how versatile its developers are by from something as raucous as House of the Dead to this extremely light-hearted, slapstick-style affair that does Ubisoft's Rabbids brand proud.

Hotel Transylvania is a tightly woven platform adventure full of accurate jumps, clever abilities, and brings the characters from the amusing movie to life. However, constant back-tracking and uninventive fetch missions mar the experience somewhat.

Without doubt, Mass Effect 3: Special Edition is easily one of the best offerings on the Wii U right now, but it simply cannot be stressed enough that players must seek out the two previous games in the series before playing this one.

Whilst moderately addictive at first, Gogo's Crazy Bones does not reach the same level of addictiveness as Angry Birds, with not as much variety included for the higher price. The concept works in principle, but sadly some of the allure of the mobile phone-based title it sources is lost in this DS version of the theme.

Fans of action RPGs, dungeon crawlers and puzzle games will absolutely fall in love with this game. It isn't a flawless title, but it's definitely worth the purchase if looking for a lengthy experience.

Shifting World takes the whole world switching mechanic and breathes fresh air into it, presenting players with some amazing brain-teasing stages. Smart level design, a stylish art style, and plenty of different modes to work through make this puzzle platform title one of the best 'under the radar' Nintendo 3DS games of 2012.

Unfortunately, the entire experience is marred by poor controls and frustrating gameplay in general and pretty much spoils that to a large degree, dragging the game down and preventing it from fulfilling its potential. Definitely a missed opportunity.

What it lacks in graphical fidelity, Warriors Orochi 3 Hyper more than makes up for in every other area, with the standard en masse battling fare proving as thrilling as ever, now complete with crazy time travelling storyline to make the missions more intriguing.

Offering far more value for money than what may first appear, The Denpa Men's overall variety may be in question, yet it does provide an excellent starting point for newer players as well as something a little different for veterans.

It has to be said that whilst it is clearly the 2012 game on offer here, with a few new sprinklings to make it viable for the Wii U crowd, FIFA 13 is a far better effort than the usual churned out launch entries previous Nintendo consoles have had to suffer.

It is hard to dislike the comical Rabbids, and the antics of Rabbids Land goes to show that there is still plenty of fun to be had with crazy mini-games that can be played with a few friends. It may not have the same level of longevity as something like Nintendo Land but it does indeed prove to be a great time consumer for anyone hoping for an enjoyable experience that makes great use of the Wii U GamePad.

What it may lack in terms of presentation, Crimson Shroud more than makes up for in the narrative department, soundtrack, and the originality of its battle system (at least for a video-game RPG).

Zero Escape: Virtue's Last Reward may lack the initial punch delivered by its predecessor, but still brings an engrossing tale to the table, with a story that players will have to explore completely before finally putting the game back on the shelf. With a smattering of smart puzzles tying everything together, it will take something truly special to trump this superb visual novel experience.

Konami shoots and scores with Pro Evolution Soccer 2013 3D, showing EA how it should be done. From the wide array of modes that mimic the home console versions to the technical quality and extras that make this 3DS version stand out, this proves to be the ultimate portable football experience for all fans of the sport.

Puddle lacks a tiny bit of personality and features some initially annoying gameplay limitations but manages to hold its own in the long run, past the initial learning period.

Mighty Switch Force! Hyper Drive Edition is a superb action puzzle title with clever stages that both get the brain working overtime, yet also offer up a thrilling fast-paced platform experience that will keep even the toughest of gamers on the edge of their seats.

Nintendo Land is indeed a pleasant surprise. Not only does it do a great job at demonstrating just about every one of the Wii U's features, but it also delivers on some incredibly fun experiences, particularly in multiplayer

While perhaps not a ground-breaking addition to the Wii library, A Shadow's Tale had the potential to be more than what it ended up being. Nevertheless, what was given is still quite a good experience that will delight Wii owners craving for an original concept that strives to convey a unique atmosphere to its players through a well designed soundtrack and visual style.

With only a few levels on offer, each lasting only a few minutes, it would be easy to conclude that Nano Assault Neo is a total rip-off. Deeper observation, however, reveals a quite addictive experience that will have fans of the genre coming back for more, trying to complete every single one of the downright insane challenges it throws their way, as well as attempting to climb atop the online leader-boards to become the best player in the world... or perhaps aiming for the more reasonable goal of becoming the best Nano Assault player among their friends.

Chasing Aurora is not a bad game, it's a good game that is let down by some poor design decisions.

Real Heroes: Firefighter 3D helps to fill a void in the games market by successfully emulating the perils of being in the emergency services, and yet somehow does so a little too well if the dodgy input methods and stuttering graphical levels are anything to go by. One of the more unique first-person 'shooters' on the 3DS market, but also a book of matches you need to be cautious with when striking.

Tekken Tag Tournament 2: Wii U Edition proves that when something isn't broke then there's no need to fix it -- just add a ton of worthwhile and engaging content on top. Persistent loading times may mar the experience for some, but for fighting game fans with a shiny new console to equip, this will be gaming nirvana.

New Super Mario Bros. U succeeds in delivering classic 2D Mario gameplay in a more visually appealing and complete package than ever before and is simply a blast to play both alone or with friends.

Little Inferno is an incredibly unique experience that can't be found in any other game. Burning various items is surprisingly fun and the charming story will appeal to many people.

Although a year later than its brethren, Batman: Arkham City - Armoured Edition manages to differentiate itself as a subtly enhanced version with all the bells and quirks of the extra content added on top. The GamePad additions will split opinion on what works and what doesn't, but for one of the better launch titles -- if maybe not the best running one -- this is a considerable option.

Call of Duty: Black Ops II is by far the most fleshed out Call of Duty game to date; with a whole load of content included and some lovely exclusive features, it's clear that Treyarch is committed to making the series successful on Wii U.

A solid concept at its core already made sure that ZombiU was an attractive and interesting prospect even before it launched. What was delivered turned out to be a most attractive and addictive experience like none other in the current generation of games, especially as the Survival Horror genre having pretty much died over the last decade.

Sonic's second foray into the motoring world is his best yet, with a game that headlines the defining advantages of the Wii U format whilst providing more than enough to see and do for SEGA fans both young and old. Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed retains trademark aspects of the karting genre, but also provides enough variation on it to be able to stand side-by-side with Nintendo's eventual Mario equivalent.

Balance Challenge is an excellent game that has been criminally ignored by the gaming press., and comes highly recommended.

In the absence of Wii Fit U alone, this offering from Ubisoft would have been perfect, but so impressive is the package that it deserves to stand proud as one of the best fitness products on the market at the moment and is a great alternative for those that loved Wii Fit Plus.

Aero Porter features a good and surprisingly fun concept but fails when it comes to its execution. It's enjoyable to play through for a while but that doesn't make it a worthwhile purchase at the price of £4.49 when there are plenty of better options on the 3DS eShop. It could only be recommended to people who love micromanaging and aren't put off by heaps of frustration.

Funky Barn had a lot going for it, and in many ways it works a treat thanks to some smooth controls and the farming element proving to be quite fun. However, when a lot of the processes become automated later on, the enjoyment factor starts to wane considerably. On top of this, despite having some pleasing options, the general amount included does not warrant its high retail price-tag, and it would have been far more palatable had it been a cheaper eShop download.

For all its beauty in the presentation stakes, Paper Mario: Sticker Star is certainly not the RPG than many fans of the series in general were expecting. It does prove to be a satisfying enough adventure after becoming accustomed to the mix and match of gameplay styles included, but the back-tracking and frustrating limitations of the sticker battling system fail to impress. The whole package feels a bit 'lost and confused.'

Dress to Play: Cute Witches! knows exactly who it is appealing to and delivers on that end very well. The dress-up nature of the game is sure to be popular with little girls, just in the same way the likes of Animal Crossing is. The unlocking of more styles will keep them occupied for a while, but it really could have done with just a bit more added content to save it from being put down too quickly.

Epic Mickey: Power of Illusion is a very competent platform adventure, yet sadly falls short of the excellence many would have expected from the otherwise superb DreamRift. That is not to say it comes without any merit, since the -- admittedly shorter than expected -- adventure is filled with smart platform antics, lovely colourful retro visuals and a delightful soundtrack.

Let's Golf! 3D got the Nintendo 3DS eShop's exclusive software off to a good start, and with this solid effort it isn't difficult to see why. Generic feel and safe gameplay systems aside, the sheer amount to see and do, together with the friendly pick-up-and-play interface, make this downloadable a golfing game to consider.

Liberation Maiden is a solid game that is pretty interesting and enjoyable from beginning to end, with good controls and great concepts. However, each of the five stages will take a maximum of 20 minutes and will most likely zip by far quicker than that.

Hana Samurai: Art of the Sword, while not a must-have, is still a good addition to the growing library of the Nintendo 3DS eShop. Currently the game is available online for what may seem like a high cost of £6.29, but is worth buying for people who like challenging, timing-based combat and the overall style of the game.

Pokedex 3D Pro finishes what the original eShop version began, by becoming the de facto standard database option for Pocket Monster enthusiasts. It remains to be seen whether the Pro will interact specifically with the future mainline 3DS Pokémon titles, but for now, despite the low amount of actual play and the higher cost, there is a lot to see here.

Whilst moderately enjoyable in brief multiplayer bouts, the game fails to hit the mark far too often.

Unfortunately, there isn't an awful lot else to come back for, but it is proof that augmented reality and motion controls work extremely well together. For those that don't own Pokémon Black Version 2 or Pokémon White Version 2, however, remember to avoid this one.

Electronic Arts has marginally improved FIFA 13 to the point where it can safely be said that it is a better game than the series' debut on Nintendo 3DS, but there is still a lot of work to do in order to become the supreme football experience in the portable realm.

Puzzle fans should not be without this latest masterpiece.

Pokémon Black Version 2 and Pokémon White Version 2 are technically fantastic, taking the core of a remarkable series and building in all manner of new and intriguing features to keep fans enamoured with what is basically a simple formula rinsed and constantly repeated over the years. The only aspect holding back these first ever direct sequels is the standard of presentation, with only minor upgrades since originally gracing the world over 15 years ago, no matter how much the point is argued. That being said, for the gameplay and story elements alone, this is undoubtedly an essential purchase.

Pokémon Black Version 2 and Pokémon White Version 2 are technically fantastic, taking the core of a remarkable series and building in all manner of new and intriguing features to keep fans enamoured with what is basically a simple formula rinsed and constantly repeated over the years. The only aspect holding back these first ever direct sequels is the standard of presentation, with only minor upgrades since originally gracing the world over 15 years ago, no matter how much the point is argued. That being said, for the gameplay and story elements alone, this is undoubtedly an essential purchase.

Dot Runner: Complete Edition is by no means a bad game, it's just that some of its features could have been implemented better. If players like 2D top-down puzzle games with a challenge, or if a fan of Intense's past works, such as Escape Trick, then go right ahead and buy it. If not, then you might as well look elsewhere since this can be a very frustrating and unfulfilling ride.

FIFA 13 is by no means the most incompetent of football titles on the market, but it is certainly not a patch on Konami's revived Pro Evolution Soccer series. With a somewhat frustrating updated play mechanic and shoddy presentation it is bad enough. The fact that this is the exact same game as last year's FIFA 12 merely adds insult to injury.

Just Dance 4 is a triumph and goes to show that Ubisoft has definitely not been resting on its laurels, pouring more features into its premier music-related product to ensure that those that played other iterations are kept entertained, whilst the basic accessibility remains for newcomers. This is no mere roster update; this is pure dancing goodness.

Secret Files 2: Puritas Cordis follows on from the solid foundation set by the first game, Tunguska, and brings with it an impressive story that keeps gamers gripped until the final credits.

It still manages to provide a lot of fun, but perhaps not as much as it would have done had it stuck more closely to what truly made the appeal of the original franchise: challenge, speed and fiendishly clever level-design that made the most of the physics engine.

Abyss is a tidy mini game with responsive controls and an easy to pick up and play formula, but it's just far too short and lacks any replay value. It's the budget price tag that saves it from being less than an average game, though. For any parents out there that might be after a game that is simple enough for children to play and keep them occupied for a little while, Abyss would be ideal, especially given the cost. However, for anyone else, that couple of quid is probably best saved for something else.

Rarely has such a well designed and nightmarishly difficult game on Wii been found, and it comes to fill the gap for those who love a good challenge -- and a tough one this truly is.

Picross e is the ideal game for series newcomers to jump into, helped greatly by its always-at-hand downloaded nature, suspend features, and intuitive control schemes.

Pop Cap has delivered a well-rounded puzzler that keeps on delivering, albeit one that is so similar to Mitchell Corporation's original game, actionloop, that it ventures into plagiarism territory. If anyone is looking for something to keep themselves occupied for a while and if you need your perfect scores skills itch scratching, Zuma's Revenge on DSiWare will definitely soothe the pain.

Solitaire is as Solitaire does. It's as much as can be done with a title such as this, and 3D Solitaire is for filling those times when bored senseless and just wanting something to do. It works well and looks halfway decent, even if the controls are a contradiction of sorts.

Not quite the Angry Birds clone that some may believe at first glance, and it isn't without issues, but for the asking price Bird Mania 3D fundamentally holds true to what cheaper quick-burst games need to be to succeed; fun, inimitable, and packing in that 'one more go' factor.

3, 2, 1... WordsUp! is ideal for those looking for a little puzzler to test the brain during those short periods of boredom we all find ourselves experiencing daily.

Fans of puzzle games should not pass up this opportunity to get their fix of it, especially the more creative of them who won't resist the appeal of the Pullblox Studio, allowing them to create their own headaches.

Inazuma Eleven 2: FireStorm / Blizzard is a wonderful follow-up to what was already a fantastic concept, expertly blending an intriguing RPG adventure with some highly skilful touch-screen football fun.

Inazuma Eleven 2: FireStorm / Blizzard is a wonderful follow-up to what was already a fantastic concept, expertly blending an intriguing RPG adventure with some highly skilful touch-screen football fun.

99Seconds takes the qualities of successful Smartphone titles and applies them to DSiWare; cheap, unique, easy-but-challenging and addictive experiences outside of a game cartridge or disc.

With an engrossing story, immersive gameplay, and enough scares to get the heart racing, Project Zero 2: Wii Edition continues the trend of strong Wii releases in 2012 and is the perfect plat du jour after the tasty entrée that was Spirit Camera: The Cursed Memoir.

Be sure to check out Inazuma Eleven and hope that it sells well enough to get the superior sequel also localised.

Nintendo has teamed up with Tecmo Koei for yet another successful venture, this time bringing the world of strategic battling and Pocket Monsters together for what is without doubt the deepest and most impressive Pokémon spin-off so far.

Sparkle Snapshots 3D is certainly a powerful little tool for all the options it provides.

Whatever the case, New Super Mario Bros. 2 is an ideal second course for 3DS owners that enjoyed Super Mario 3D Land so much.

New Art Academy: Learn New Painting Techniques and Share Your Art builds upon the solid foundation of its predecessors to offer an extremely well-rounded experience that is suitable for budding artists keen to make a fresh start, and experts looking to hone their talents further.

For four times the price of the eShop game, this is definitely not worth the investment. Stick to the original or opt for something far better for creative minds, New Art Academy.

Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance is the culmination of several trial ideas tested across various formats over the years since the release of Kingdom Hearts II and succeeds in being the strongest of the side-stories so far.

To-Fu Collection is a very fun and addictive game that can be played for hours at a time.

The mixture of varying styles throughout the entire Bit.Trip Saga package is enough to keep fans of rhythm games content thanks to it proving to be far more than a run-of-the-mill music-based product, instead being a wonderful combination of great tunes and intriguing genre-splicing.

Let's Create! Pottery is quite a niche title that will appeal to pottery makers and creative types and it's something you can pick up and play at any time, whether it be for short or long periods.

Many may bemoan the fact that Spirit Camera: The Cursed Memoir is a bite-sized gimmick of an adventure, but it stays true to the Project Zero series, mixing in some intriguing new gameplay techniques, and has plenty of depth for those that bother to scratch away the surface and delve deeper.

Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy is a masterpiece, that will not only be adored by fans of the RPG series, but anyone who loves music, full stop. A stunning music-based game that any Nintendo 3DS owner should not be without.

While Marvel Pinball 3D probably does nothing to revolutionise the genre, everything it aims to achieve is perfectly done.

Beat the Beat: Rhythm Paradise is yet another hit from the Nintendo factory, mixing in elements from the original Japan-only release, Rhythm Tengoku on GBA, and continuing in the fine form set by the Nintendo DS version. The perfect game for the warmth summer months; prepare for the rhythm heat wave!

Fun, witty, and mad. This is how a Back to the Future game should be. The return of the cast make this game instantly memorable and further exploration into the universe is always welcome.

A sharp contrast to Renegade Kid's technically stellar DS games, Mutant Mudds wraps up retro-inspired charm, pixel art that pleases the eyes, and a boatload of challenge, all making highly effective use of the 3DS slider switch, all in one affordable downloadable package.

Adding another string to the 3DS' bow of worthwhile downloadable experiences, Art of Balance Touch! channels its forbearer and improves on it in every way, thanks to the nature of portable and new content.

No doubt about it, VVVVVV is one of the best games out on the 3DS eShop. It is a wonderful reminder that, in an age of super powerful consoles with HD and 3D graphics, old-school 2D games with simple concepts can still deliver some of the most addictive and downright fun entertainment.

An interesting approach to a standard RTS style game on the DSiWare makes Amoebattle something that's worth checking out.

Mario Tennis Open impresses and disappoints, unfortunately, proving to not be the out-and-out champion many were expecting, yet still managing to offer enough familiar fun to engage fans of old and newcomers alike. Brace yourself for a brief single-player mode and remove all thoughts of serious tennis from your mind and it will not be too much of a let-down.

Colors 3D is no doubt one of the best applications to grace the eShop and if you have an interest in drawing and art in general, you'll love it.

Dream Trigger 3D is one of those games that would have hugely benefitted from eShop presence, be it a demo or a smaller downloadable version, as while the concept in itself is difficult to grasp initially, the payoff in grasping a higher score and hearing the stage theme in its entirety is more than worth it. As far as effective 3D showcases and unique experiences on Nintendo's newest handheld go, you'll find fewer more so than this.

It is a good idea from Enjoy Gaming, but sadly the limited customisation options mean games will usually end up roughly the same. For £3.60, this isn't a bad buy if 3DS owners are looking for a game that contains classic puzzle themes and has a reasonable game editor thrown in, but for most people Block Factory simply will not be worth the time or money.

Avoid Chuck E. Cheese's Arcade Room at all costs. Even if you have some morbid curiosity, or previous affection for childhood memories of Chuck E. Cheese, there is nothing here but a really shallow experience that is sure to sour any positive thoughts you had about Nolan Bushnell's creation.

Simple gameplay but with a new polish and sheen and really clever design, mixed with immaculate presentation help to make Bit.Trip Complete, and its Nintendo 3DS cousin Bit.Trip Saga, worthwhile purchases. Gaijin Games has opened up its previously super niche WiiWare games extremely successfully into the wider world.

At the end of the day, Cave Story 3D will most likely appeal primarily to fans of the original willing to experience one of their favourite games in its new form, or collectors of physical copies who wouldn't pass a chance to get their hands on the only retail version of the masterpiece that Cave Story is.

Definitely download this title at the earliest convenience as it is certainly one of the best eShop titles currently available on the 3DS format.

That said, if you want what is probably the best 2D fighting experience available on 3DS and don't mind the lack of online play, BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II is the perfect choice.

Many will look at Pandora's Tower as being the weakest of the three Wii RPGs, with Xenoblade Chronicles and The Last Story easily making Ganbarion and Nintendo's effort seem unworthy of attention. However, such a judgement would be unjust, since this Action RPG takes a totally different slant, offering an almost 3D Castlevania and Metroid feel to proceedings, mixing in a pleasant love story and a brilliantly smooth battle system that will widen its appeal.

Despite its shortcomings in terms of the control system and extremely low difficulty setting, PokéPark 2: Wonders Beyond proves to be a far more substantial and engaging outing than its predecessor, yet unfortunately will only really appeal to younger fans of the Pokémon series.

SEGA has crafted a wonderful first attempt at the rhythm genre on Nintendo 3DS with Rhythm Thief and the Emperor's Treasure by mixing up the standard fare totally, slotting in all sorts of fantastic and addictive mini-games, a wealth of gorgeous presentation, and some absolutely amazing, toe-tapping tunes, plus a heap of impressive voice acting.