Even if there are some design tricks here that all developers could learn from, the game's negatives outweigh the positives, leaving this Galleon to be forgotten at the bottom of the bargain bin.

Nothing in it really drives you to play. The RPG elements are watered down, the dungeon and monster designs are boring, and even with all the different weapons and combat options, the fighting is just too simplistic.

It’s not that the game is incredibly difficult. It’s just that it’s very particular and gives you a terrible viewpoint from which to perform specific actions. The loose controls only make matters worse.

NFL 2K5 has leveled the field of play significantly with its wallet-friendly price and killer presentation.

Gamers looking for a long involving experience will be disappointed that the story is not nearly as voluptuous as the female characters; at around 20 hours some will consider it too thin a quest.

NFL 2K5 has leveled the field of play significantly with its wallet-friendly price and killer presentation.

Places its emphasis on subtle refinements over sweeping changes, which is what tends to happen when the gameplay is seasoned enough to already be considered a class act.

Places its emphasis on subtle refinements over sweeping changes, which is what tends to happen when the gameplay is seasoned enough to already be considered a class act.

Places its emphasis on subtle refinements over sweeping changes, which is what tends to happen when the gameplay is seasoned enough to already be considered a class act.

And perhaps even more than "DDR" or "Samba De Amigo," Karaoke Revolution is a game that will be embraced by non-gamers, since it requires no physical dexterity or interaction with a controller.

This is a series that sells well. Koei has taken that into account and seems to be deliberately treading water. What was pretty cool in "Dynasty Warriors 2" seems much less so several games later.

From the hectic, mashy battles to the meticulous character customization, there's something here for every breed of player.

With its fair share of gameplay issues and dated presentation, this Samurai walks away with his blade between his legs.

If you’re willing work though the interface and aren’t opposed to saving and reloading over and over again, you’ll find that Soldiers has legs. What we’d like to see in a future release is a cleaner interface and a more clearly defined design.

A captivating strategy game with oodles of character.

The gonzo characters and action have a certain allure, but since the game doesn’t provide much context, how you feel about the game’s unique look could easily make or break it for you.

For the budget price, Shrine Circus Tycoon is certainly worth a look, especially if you’re jonesing for a lighthearted management sim. It’s not the greatest show on earth, but it ain’t half bad either.

The visuals are on par with previous entries in the series. They're colorful and cartoon-like, with non-threatening enemies and friendly characters.

But since the web, which plays such an important role in solving many of the puzzles, makes it easy to cheat, only pick it up if you’re certain you can resist temptation.

Fortunately the on-screen action moves at a blistering pace, with colorful visuals, impressive animations, and eye-popping embellishments such as motion trails, super jumps, bats bursting into fire after multiple hits, and pitches that defy physics. The depth of features isn’t quite up to the competition’s, but in terms of action and excitement, MLB SlugFest: Loaded covers all the bases.

Fortunately the on-screen action moves at a blistering pace, with colorful visuals, impressive animations, and eye-popping embellishments such as motion trails, super jumps, bats bursting into fire after multiple hits, and pitches that defy physics. The depth of features isn’t quite up to the competition’s, but in terms of action and excitement, MLB SlugFest: Loaded covers all the bases.

Everything from the pointless showdown mode to the almost complete absence of anything to unlock makes the game feel raw in a negative, unfinished way. Not the hardcore, wrestling kind of fans know and love.

There is a single-player dynamic campaign that you should stay far, far away from. The campaign appears to be an afterthought, as does the AI, which does a fantastic job killing itself.

For pure dollar value -- 10 total games for $29.99 -- Mega Man Anniversary Collection is a great buy. That is, if you can make your peace with the atrocious button-swapping snafu.

Not only is it the most advanced golf title yet seen on the system, it easily ranks as the best golf game on any handheld.

The competition isn't super hot, however, especially once players get the hang of the controls. It's not that the AI isn't realistic, just that it doesn't push very hard against a reasonably capable player.

For pure dollar value -- 10 total games for $29.99 -- Mega Man Anniversary Collection is a great buy. That is, if you can make your peace with the atrocious button-swapping snafu.

Driv3r tries to be more than just a driving game, but it looks like Tanner should get his butt back behind the wheel and stay there.