Basically, what all this goodness translates to is a fantastically well-balanced and tremendously fun fast-paced tactical RTS.

While the gameplay is serviceable, fun and current, the art design and visual production are head and shoulders above similar games in many respects.

On its own merits it’s a fantastic cinematic achievement and exceptional precedent for license-based games.

It is a bit of a shock to return to the franchise’s roots after all the improvements that have been made across two sequels in the past year, but the addition of Live support may render many of these complaints moot within the next few months.

The story is interesting and well-told, and the dual-map system breathes new life into a genre that was beginning to leave a sour taste on the palates of many gamers.

With only 10 maps, a lackluster new game mode, and the only interesting modification being the infantry system, it’s hard to justify the $50 dollar price tag. But if players enjoy futuristic large scale battles and they’re already a fan of the series, then 2142 is obviously their best option.

It's certainly nice to have a real focus on multiplayer this time around-especially since that's when the game will see the most use, anyway-but the loss of the campaign mode is a real downer.

It more than makes up for the mediocrity of the first Vampire PC game, and will satisfy even the most diehard bloodsucker.

Luckily, the level design is fantastic, making every repeat through a level bearable, as many sections are just fun. Who doesn't love getting launched out of a barrel into the sky to swing from post to post while grabbing bananas only to land in a mine cart which travels the worst kept track in existence? Everything flows beautifully.

If you’re buying a game other than Zelda with your Wii, make it Trauma Center. The gameplay not only translates perfectly, it evolves, and everything that made Under the Knife great is still on full display.

Whereas Battlefield’s previous entries have benefited from deep realistic multiplayer experiences that bordered on wartime simulations, Modern Combat’s strength instead lies in its solo arcade-style gameplay that, despite some questionable AI and homogenized weapon selection, still does the franchise proud.

A modest upgrade from last year’s offering. However, for fans of the series, the changes made can drastically affect the way the entire game is played.

The issue here perhaps that the SSX franchise was not yet ready for another sequel, and EA’s attempt to further cash in on their past success has resulted in a game that is inferior to its predecessors.

For all the good in the game, there’s a fairly steep learning curve that may make some gamers recant their stubborn ‘no FAQ’ tendencies, especially in order to see the game’s multiple endings.

Yes it’s short. Yes it sticks to the series’ formula. And yes it is essentially a one-trick pony. But like a good popcorn action flick, Hitman Contracts hits you in all the right ways and proves to be truly captivating while it lasts.

It’s nothing revolutionary, but for a launch title it serves its purpose—portable baseball befitting any plane ride or waiting room.

Whereas Battlefield's previous entries have benefited from deep realistic multiplayer experiences that bordered on wartime simulations, Modern Combat's strength instead lies in its solo arcade-style gameplay that, despite some questionable AI and homogenized weapon selection, still does the franchise proud.

If you are looking at getting this game but have a PS2 or DC already, go with those versions. But if you’ve only got an Xbox, then this version is probably worth getting.

The focus on realism obviously isn't for everyone, but the lengthy career mode coupled with the satisfying Xbox Live support, make for an overall great experience.

It's certainly nice to have a real focus on multiplayer this time around-especially since that's when the game will see the most use, anyway-but the loss of the campaign mode is a real downer.

The gameplay is solid, and even players who might otherwise be turned off by the game's cute style and cartoonish presentation could find themselves falling in love with the pink marauder and his band multicolored friends.

It's original, action-packed, and boasts a story that is on par with even some of the Final Fantasy series.

Its attention to detail and realism inevitably means that it will appeal to a smaller niche, but that simply means that it only sets out do one thing, and it does its job well.

If you’re looking for a showcase title to impress your friends, this is it. But, I think focusing so much on the visuals takes something away from the game. Its gameplay is far more impressive, and the fact that the art design has trumped every other action title out there is just icing on the cake.

A relatively short-lived experience lasting only ten or so hours, this is a game that, in typical Rare fashion, positions the entirety of its gameplay upon a single gimmick that, sadly, fails to carry to experience on its own. Kameo is a good game, but it reeks of missed potential.

For a shooter, the visuals in R-Type Final are nothing short of stunning. The environments are crisp, colorful, and many varied.

Even hampered, however, Empire at War is a great game with exhilarating visuals, and fun gameplay that any true RTS fan should enjoy.

While NHL 07 completely nails certain facets of the game, it definitely isn’t the complete package. This franchise certainly has the appearance of going places, but it may be another year or two before it finally proves itself as the best game on the market.