Game Chronicles' Scores

  • Games
For 3,050 reviews, this publication has graded:
  • 79% higher than the average critic
  • 4% same as the average critic
  • 17% lower than the average critic
On average, this publication grades 2 points higher than other critics. (0-100 point scale)
Average Game review score: 77
Highest review score: 100 The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Lowest review score: 10 X-Men: Destiny
Score distribution:
3050 game reviews
    • 90 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    The iPad version of the game, is not the best version of Chinatown Wars, but it is still a great game.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 76 Critic Score
    A highly addictive adventure into the time management genre. Its biggest appeal to me is its sharp visuals and of course the 80's theme. The gameplay is consistently solid with enough variations in each of the 45 levels to make it not feel like the same tactics will work each time.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Dragon's Lair HD is truly a work of art and a great memorial to a game that has become a timeless classic.
    • 93 Metascore
    • 93 Critic Score
    Cut the Rope HD requires a bit of thought, planning, timing, and even some dexterity. It might even be original enough to give Angry Birds a run for its money.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 93 Critic Score
    Reckless Racing brings classic arcade racing back to the mainstream with stunning visuals, quality sound, complete with hillbilly banjo soundtrack, and enough content to keep you racing for weeks to come. Hopefully there will be some new tracks available before you ever get tired of this excellent game.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Royal Trouble: Hidden Adventures HD is a fantastic hidden object game that in some ways is more challenging that many of the others out there, but it also offers you plenty of ways to skip the hard parts, making this the perfect family-friendly game for gamers of all ages.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    While I refuse to allow hidden object games admittance into the adventure game genre, Spirit of Wandering: The Legend is about as adventurous as it comes thanks to its great swashbuckling premise and a somewhat interesting story clearly targeted towards the female demographic. So help this pirate captain find her missing love and explore some of the most breathtaking scenery ever seen on your iPad with yet another great hidden object game from G5 Entertainment.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 89 Critic Score
    Treasure Seekers II: The Enhanced Canvases is a visually flawless creation; a true art masterpiece that you'll savor every moment while staring intently into each gorgeous image.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 91 Critic Score
    With ample structured gameplay and the endless sandbox mode, there is limitless gameplay potential here, so if you enjoy this type of city-building and resource management game then it doesn't get any better than Virtual City HD.
    • 92 Metascore
    • 92 Critic Score
    And even if you already own this game on PC or Xbox 360, I daresay the touchscreen interface and just having this game available at any time is worth the double-dip. It's on special sale for $1.99 at the time I write this, so act now before it returns to its regular price of $3.99 (which is still a great price).
    • 81 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    With eight courses, multiple modes for solo and multiplayer, and the addicting Facebook challenges, Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 12 HD has plenty to offer. There are a few minor issues but those can easily be addressed in a patch or the inevitable sequel coming next year. For now, it doesn't get any better than this when it comes to iPad golf.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 91 Critic Score
    If you love Monopoly then the iPad is the only way to play it – even if you have the real game sitting in the closet.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    The revamped controls are a little better than previous efforts, but the entire package of enhanced graphics and amazing number of fully licensed teams and players really puts FIFA 12 above the rest.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 97 Critic Score
    Dead Space 2 is the first must-play game of the year for consoles, and Dead Space is the first must-play app for the iPad, paving the way for what is sure to be an exciting year for tablet gaming.
    • 64 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Personally, Aby Escape came out at just the right time. I love Temple Run and games like Temple Run but was getting pretty tired of that game. This is a fresh visual take on the classic run-until-you're-caught gameplay loaded with charm, great art style, cheery music, and addictive gameplay. And best of all, it's free unless you want to pay to unlock stuff faster.
    • 90 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    Trials Evolution is a must-buy XBLA game for anyone who loves racing, physics, puzzles, and addictive competition...with yourself and others.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    I have to give props to Reverge Labs for making Skullgirls a really solid fighter that has the potential to rival the bigger fighting franchises. The gameplay is tough, but with the proper willpower, strategy, and in my case a good arcade fightstick, you can have a lot of fun with Skullgirls. The characters are interesting as is the music and atmosphere of the game. If you're looking for a fighter that is truly unique then I definitely recommend downloading Skullgirls for Xbox LIVE Arcade today.
    • 88 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    I'm guessing if you have a PC capable of running this game then that would be the preferred format, but if you are resigned to playing your games on a console then The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings - Enhanced Edition is a competent port and an adventure worthy of your time and money.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Prototype 2 is a sequel that far surpasses its predecessor with an interesting character, good storytelling, and a lot of gratuitous violence.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 97 Critic Score
    With a brand new character, engaging story, enhanced powers, and integrated gameplay features like Hunting and Mutations, Prototype 2 is a visionary nightmare that's a dream to play.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Sure, the game hasn't aged as gracefully as I would have liked, but there are some remarkable visual enhancements and a nice stash of new bonus content that fans are sure to love. Plus, the new Achievements are a powerful inducement for possibly playing through all three titles again.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    It took me about 8 hours to get through Special Enquiry Detail: Engaged to Kill with some trail and error on a few puzzles. I'm usually not a huge fan of the hidden object genre, but this is easily one of my new favorites now, thanks to the fact that I felt like I was playing a true adventure title most of the time. I absolutely recommend purchasing Special Enquiry Detail: Engaged to Kill for PC today.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Your potential enjoyment of this title depends entirely upon how much the idea of the peanut butter and chocolate combination of space naval combat and Defense of the Ancients-style gameplay intrigues you. If you're at all curious, it'll be worth the time, but if you're not, there's certainly a dozen other games in the same family waiting for you out there.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    Despite having no real online or real-time multiplayer, Burnout Crash is totally addicting and lends itself perfectly to that "just one more time" mentality that is perfect for mobile gaming. And for only $5, this is a far better value than the XBLA version.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 93 Critic Score
    If you love hidden object games or are just the kind of person who hits up garage sales every weekend looking for lost treasures then Pickers HD was made for you.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Beeing is only $1 and its universal so it can be played on your iPhone as well as the iPad and thanks simple controls and a simple yet exaggerated art style, the game plays just as well on the smaller screen. I can't recommend this family-friendly game highly enough for kids, parents, and grandparents. It's simple elegance is undeniably addicting and Beeing's greatest appeal.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    CreaVures is one of the biggest surprises I've seen on the App Store this year and an experience that no iPad owner should skip.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    As far as puzzle games go, Rinth Island is in a class of its own, not only by putting a new 3D spin on the stacking puzzle genre, but by giving gamers the tools to build their own levels and extend their enjoyment well beyond the scope of this already quite substantial game. And it's only $1, so you might be tempted to buy a few of those in-app treats.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 94 Critic Score
    Even if you don't normally play strategy games l encourage you to at least try the demo for Anomaly Warzone Earth. It might look like another Command& Conquer or random tower defense game on the surface but there is something truly original, highly challenging, and compulsively addicting with this game. And even if you already own this game on PC or iOS, I daresay the Tactical Trials is worth a double-dip. At only 800 MS points, this is the best $10 you'll spend in the Xbox Arcade this month.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Overall, though, Avernum: Escape from the Pit is a rather good game. It captures the feel of 90s RPGs better than pretty much any other game out there, and scratches the nostalgia itch that players who grew up in the days of Black Isle might have. It's not without some minor flaws, but they don't do much to subtract from an otherwise excellent package.
    • 89 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    As I mentioned I'm far from good with a digital art studio than compared to pencil and paper media but I think I have a greater appreciation and interest in it now after trying for the last week. Colors! 3D is a must own app on the Nintendo 3DS for anyone that is artistically inclined.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    With 52 levels and four different locales for your cities to flourish in, Virtual City 2: Paradise Resort is one of the more challenging G5 Entertainment titles to be introduced, but it's also one that will keep you entertained for hours on end. You'll soon learn to love the complexity and involving gameplay that makes it so great. Sadly, this is not a universal app so if you do own an iPad make sure to get the HD version.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 93 Critic Score
    Ridge Racer Unbounded might not be the Ridge Racer game your dad played back in his day, but don't let the name fool you. It's dark and dirty visual style is second only to the dirty and explosive racing action that awaits when you strap in behind the wheel of this addictive arcade racer where the only limit to your fun is your imagination.
    • 64 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    All-in-all, Time Machine: Rogue Pilot does exactly what it sets out to do – provide gamers with a unique match-three experience. The shooting-based gameplay definitely adds a new mechanic to the aging genre, and while I was not all that impressed with the hidden-object minigames, they provided a nice change of pace. Do I think it is better than Puzzle Quest, 7 Wonders, or Bejewled? No. But it is a solid puzzler, and with an MSRP of $6.99, gamers can hardly go wrong.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    Rayman 3 HD is a great remake of an amazing classic, but it would have been nice if they could have updated the controls and camera to be just as good as the new graphics.
    • 57 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    I have to say that Sumioni: Demon Arts is easily one of my favorites on the Vita despite its less than stellar inner workings.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 79 Critic Score
    All in all, Ys: The Oath in Felghana is highly enjoyable, entertaining and one of the toughest rides in recent history. Its music is engaging during combat and adds to the fast paced action. The fun only gets better with the multiple difficulties and classic old school charm with a nice helping of new touches that makes it fit comfortably in today's market. It's a definite buy for all you RPG fans out there.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 97 Critic Score
    I ended last year's review by saying, "I don't know how this game can possibly get any better, but I look forward to seeing EA try to best this almost-flawless installment, and what is arguably the best version of PGA Tour in the history of the franchise.". Well, somehow they did manage to best their previous efforts, so I will let that statement and challenge conclude this year's review as I return to the links for another year of great virtual golf.
    • 59 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    With more than 70 levels and the obsessive quest to save all three Gnus on each of them (much like collecting stars in similar games), you're going to spend a lot of time finishing and perfecting your Gnu rescue operation. This is some of the best physics-based puzzle fun I've had on my iPad since Angry Birds, and unlike that game, this is all about skill, speed, and momentum, more than chaos theory and random bits of crumbling architecture. Gnu Revenge is an instant classic and soon-to-be family favorite.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    I enjoyed Kung Fu Rabbit despite the awkward controls – something iCade owners won't have to worry about. The game is challenging to play and charming to watch and there is loads of content, and with a bit of skill and patience you'll never have to spend any more money on those in-app carrot purchases. If you love platform games with some fun arcade combat and own an iOS device then make sure to get this universal app today.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Madcoaster is one of those obsessive-compulsive games where you keep telling yourself, "just one more game". The sessions themselves rarely last more than a couple of minutes, but the fast and furious nature of the gameplay along with the gratification of coin collection and increasing milestone challenges will have you playing this game all summer long. If you really want to get "meta", play this game while waiting in line to ride a real rollercoaster.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    With 60 levels and the likely possibility of more on the way, plus the obsessive quest for three stars on every level, expect to spend a couple of weeks tending to your droopy flowers with this highly entertaining and addictive new game.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Generations is a fun game with a lot of exciting moments and loads of fan appeal to tie it all together. If you're a Naruto fan, this is a must-have title. If you aren't, you might want to wait for a price drop to $40 or so. It's very easy to get into, so you can enjoy it yourself or play with friends without having to worry about people taking a long time to learn all the moves. I only expected a simple fighter, and this game ended up being a really fun surprise.
    • 93 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    If you've played the first two games you are going to play the third no matter what I or anyone else has to say, and you should, because Mass Effect 3 wraps up the franchise nicely and you need to play it. Everyone else can wait for the deluxe 3-game box set with all the DLC that is sure to come later this year.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 93 Critic Score
    The sheer scope of this game is staggering, which only makes the level of challenge and perfectly balanced combat that much more impressive. If you are a fan of either franchise or just want to play an awesome fighting game then don't even think about skipping Street Fighter X Tekken.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    This is my first retail game for my new Vita and I'm pretty happy with both the game and the handheld. The twin sticks are going to allow gamers to play our favorite action and FPS games in a way that was never possible on previous mobile platforms. Unit 13 is a great first effort for the genre and I can't wait to see what's next.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Tales of Graces f was a trip that I've been waiting to play since before Vesperia. The colorful imagery and youth driven story about friendship are all well told and crafted. This is an adventure North America almost didn't receive and it would a shame for anyone who likes or even loves the Tales series to miss it. Find and pick-up Tales of Graces f for the PS3 today, you won't be disappointed.
    • 88 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    That being said, for those gamers who skipped the original 2011 release, Mortal Kombat Komplete is a phenomenal fighting game and well worth the $60 asking price. But for those who already own the original title there is little reason to pony up that kind of cash given that the entirety of Komplete's included DLC can be already be purchased for less than $20.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Alas, I came to terms with the fact that if anyone wants to get the full enjoyment from this game, you have to be online at all times. There just isn't anything about the offline single player that makes you want to repeat doing the same old missions over and over again. The most enjoyable times are going to be during conquest mode taking out team territories and progressing through the story with friends at your side. You'll have bad times and good times all while enjoying the company of those that see you as a comrade in arms and a fellow gamer
    • 83 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Sine Mora has something for pretty much anyone interested in shoot-em-ups. Whether you're new to the genre or a seasoned veteran, there's a lot to love, and for its price, it's hard to turn it down. If you're at all interested in the genre or action games as a whole, there's no reason not to check out Sine Mora.
    • 92 Metascore
    • 96 Critic Score
    Journey transcends conventional gaming and becomes more of an interactive experience designed to evoke (not force) emotional responses through subtle imagery, sublime music, and the perfect balance of adventure and discovery. It is easily one of the best games I've played this year and one of the top 5 PSN titles of all time.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Mass Effect: Infiltrator isn't much of a companion piece to the new console game, but rather an independent action shooter that uses some familiar designs and set pieces from the console series. There is very little role-playing and even less story, but if you crave a challenging action-shooter that's all about stylish combat that mixes weapons and powers and top-tier production values then it doesn't get much better than this.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    The best compliment I can give Jazz: Trump's Journey is that this could easily be a $15 game on XBLA or PSN, and I honestly hope it makes it into those consoles because this is a game that needs to be seen and played by those who might not have an iPad. But until then, those of you with one should already be playing what has become my all-time favorite iPad game.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    MLB 12: The Show offers a massive amount of gameplay wrapped up in a simple brown cardboard box. This is like the slightly less-attractive sister who is really smart, so while her hot sibling (MLB 2K12) is getting all the superficial action, those seeking a more permanent and richer baseball relationship should probably overlook these surface flaws and stick with the REAL DEAL – MLB 12: The Show. From a purely gameplay standpoint - it doesn't get any better or more complete than this.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 84 Critic Score
    MLB 12: The Show is a huge step up from the PSP (how could it not be), and comes dangerously close to mirroring the PS3 version. Obvious sacrifices had to be made in gameplay and presentation to pack this huge game into your hands, but for those looking for a great (albeit only) handheld baseball game or just a great way to take your console game on the road with you, MLB 12: The Show is a fantastic title that all Vita-carrying baseball lovers should pick up.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Overall, FIFA Street is a huge step up from previous years.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    And that's precisely the group that 2K Sports is trying to target with MLB 2K12 – the hardcore baseball fans. With the slow tactical pitching game, the new fielding mechanics, and the complex base running – MLB 2K12 is definitely not for the casual gamer. And hardcore fans should really find something to like in MLB 2K12 because it is as accurate a hardball experience as can be found in gaming.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    If you love hidden object games then The Time Has Come to check out Treasure Seekers 4: The Time Has Come FREE right now for the iPhone.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 98 Critic Score
    As you can see Obsidian and Bethesda hook the player up right to give them a fighting chance at surviving the treachery of New Vegas. As a fan of RPGs and shooters, Fallout: New Vegas had a lot to offer me in the over 100 hours of exploring saving and destroying the various factions that are housed in the wasteland. I also thoroughly enjoyed the DLC, especially Old World Blues which despite its insanely long dialogue was a lot of fun and the experience and gear were totally worth the trip. I highly recommend picking up Fallout: New Vegas Ultimate Edition for the PC as soon as you can.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 79 Critic Score
    With plenty of trophies to quest after and multiple ways to play the game, including a very lengthy career mode and a functional 2-player online game, FIFA Soccer certainly offers a potential bang for your buck, but I can only imagine how much better next year's game will be when EA isn't being rushed to meet a hardware launch date.
    • 67 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    As with the previous expansion packs, The Sims 3: Showtime provides many hours of new content and storytelling options for those who enjoy The Sims 3, with the additional perk of allowing players to interact with each other while they game. Admittedly, many of the experiences might feel familiar if you've already played previous expansions and Sims iterations, but it also brings back some fan favorites and is all in all a decently solid addition to the Sims fan's library.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    I look forward to playing this game long after this review is on the shelf, and I look forward to future patches and additions to this game, as well as future installments from Wargaming.net. They're working on similar style games called World of Battleships and World of Warplanes. These games will be a part of a trilogy that will use your common account and, as I understand it, your earnings will be transferable between them as well. So, expect to see a couple more reviews in the not-too-distant future.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    Great cars, large arenas, inventive game modes, a rewarding upgrade path, and blindingly destructive gameplay ultimately win out over finicky controls. The more you play the game the better you get and Twisted Metal is one game you'll want to keep playing for a long time to come. Plus, if you act now, you can grab a copy of the Limited Edition, which comes with a Sweet Tooth multiplayer skin for the upcoming Starhawk game and a free download code for the 2001 classic, Twisted Metal: Black; a great blast from the past, now upgraded to work on your PS3.
    • 67 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Dynasty Warriors Next was the second title that I got to experience on the Vita and I have to say I'm thoroughly impressed with this mobile offering. At its heart is the same old combat that fans love, but there is enough added Vita supported functions to make Dynasty Warriors Next the new evolution in large scale combat on the small screen.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 93 Critic Score
    SSX
    There have been a lot of imposters trying to corner the snowboarding market these past years, most of them going for realism over fun, but SSX is back and EA Sports continues to prove that if you want the most insane, over-the-top racing and death-defying stunts on the planet (or at least in nine locations on the planet) then you need look no further than SSX. This is snowboarding for the next-generation!
    • 74 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    The story mode is a fairly weak and linear 12-15 hour experience, but the online co-op will keep you and your friends entertained for weeks and months to come. I can see this game having a nice long life as long as they can keep the DLC coming.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 84 Critic Score
    It's ironic that Warp is so cute you'd easily mistake it for a kids' game, but with some pretty gruesome visuals and the F-bomb being dropped more than once, it earns that Mature rating despite its adorable mascot. Still, Warp is a challenging and enjoyable game with a steady progression of difficulty and plenty of variety to keep things fresh with each new level. The upgrade system work nicely to tailor Zero to your play style, and I had a great time playing Warp from start to finish.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    With a great story, cool time-loop premise, interesting characters and exciting survival combat, I loved every minute I was trapped in Alan Wake's American Nightmare and look forward to more of this style of episodic content, and hopefully a full-fledged sequel sometime soon.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    For only $10, Dustforce is an incredible value, and it's practically unique on the market.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    There is some exclusive content and the PS Vita is certainly capable of bringing console-quality gameplay and presentation to the palm of your hands and the touch controls are interesting additions. Ninja Gaiden Sigma Plus is a day-one purchase for newcomers to the series who enjoy insane ninja combat, but everyone else can probably wait for a price drop or just hang tight for a proper sequel.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Lumines: Electronic Symphony is one of those rare games with no end. Sure, you'll end up moving on sometime down the road but for now, you won't find a more addictive puzzle game out there for the Vita; certainly not one with this much intensity and compulsive competition, for yourself and other players. I'd even go as far as recommending a digital purchase so you'll have this game ready to go at all times without having to fumble around for the cartridge.
    • 88 Metascore
    • 92 Critic Score
    As the name might suggest, Rayman Origins takes us back to the roots of platform gaming, both in its simple 2D, side-scrolling presentation and its fundamental gameplay concepts of running and jumping; not unlike a certain Italian plumber we all know. What was one of the greatest console platform games of 2011 has just become the first great handheld game of 2012 and a must-buy launch title for anyone with a new PlayStation Vita.
    • 57 Metascore
    • 77 Critic Score
    The game sounds fantastic using just the built-in Vita speakers but when you put on a nice pair of headphones or even jack your Vita into some external speakers prepare to be amazed with some stellar sound quality. Yes, 15 songs is extremely limited, giving you about 100 minutes of original gameplay content, but when you factor in the three difficulty modes – the hardest being very hard – plus the very nature of the game design that encourages you to do better to unlock stuff and climb the leaderboards, this is one game that music fans, especially Michael Jackson fans, need to check out. It might not be a day-one or a full-price purchase, you somewhere down the road this needs to be in your Vita library.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    While there is plenty of room for improvement this is still one of the few tennis games out there than you can justify spending $60, especially if you love tennis, either in real life, video games, or both. So grab your rackets, lace up your shoes, and get ready to swing your way to number one in the world.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    If you think the idea of playing a first-person shooter as a gang member inspired by Batman or the Joker is a good one or enjoy playing comedic shooters, or just love playing with costumes, then there's no doubt that Gotham City Imposters is for you. If you just want to shoot the man; well, there's pretty much every other first-person shooter out there.
    • 67 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    As much as I seem to be overloaded with the amount of zombie media out now, All Zombies Must Die!, really held my interest much longer than I thought it would. It's good old-fashioned enjoyable zombie slaying fun with plenty of humor to go around. Doublesix took their previous endeavor and made something even better by adding RPG elements.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 92 Critic Score
    I was late to hop on the 3DS bandwagon and I only have a handful of the top games for my 3DS so far, but Resident Evil: Revelations is by far one of the best if not "the best" game currently out for the system.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    Grand Slam Tennis 2 is a tough one to call. While I have enjoyed other tennis games more, there is something surprisingly complete and authentic about not only the gameplay but the overall presentation. There are no cutesy mini-games or diversions. This is all business, and despite a few nagging issues, the overall mix of the new Total Racquet Control combined with the PRO AI and all the Grand Slam events including Wimbledon make this the most complete tennis experience you can play on your Xbox 360.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 93 Critic Score
    Gamers wanting to experience some of the bloodiest combat you're likely to see in any FPS this year, or those wanting to revel in perhaps the most visionary graphic novel-style presentation of the decade need only look as far as The Darkness II. It's a wild and non-stop ride of gore and carnage with gameplay that uniquely adapts to each person who plays it. It has surprising moments of heart and storytelling, but most of all; it's a bloody good time from start to finish, and a game you'll play at least twice just so you can experience it all.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 89 Critic Score
    I've loved every minute I've spent with Shank 2 since I downloaded it, and I can't wait to replay and revisit my favorite levels whenever I need to blow off some steam. The game is just so much fun and so outrageously over-the-top that you can't help but become addicted. I'm taken back to my early arcade days of Double Dragon or Street Fighter, only now I get much cooler weapons, lots more blood, stunning visuals and sound, and a whole lot of attitude. Shank is the ultimate badass and that's how I feel every time I play Shank 2.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 97 Critic Score
    Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning isn't the first action-RPG, but it is the first to put the focus on the action. This is easily the must-own, must-play RPG of 2012 so don't miss out.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Really, that's what UFC Undisputed 3 is all about: Great options surrounding solid core gameplay. Whether you're new player, ready to be taught what the game has to offer or a veteran coming back for the myriad improvements or additions, a competitive fighter looking for a balanced playing field to match skills or a huge fan of the sport coming in for the 150 fighters represented at different points in their career, the game's got something for everyone who could possibly be interested in it.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 91 Critic Score
    UFC Undisputed 3 is a great game for any fight fan. It's a perfect mix of boxing and WWE showmanship with the cuts and cauliflower ears to prove it.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 89 Critic Score
    When it comes right down to it Rochard is a fully enjoyable action game with plenty of puzzles to work through. While not overly challenging, though some took me a few second to figure out just what to do, I can tell you I missed the three hour speed run achievement by several hours, but considering all the hidden health and weapons upgrades as well as trophies that's one achievement that will have to come later.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    But I don't want to detract from what is here – Double Fine is hands-down the most innovative development studio in gaming, and Double Fine Happy Action Theater is a truly fantastic example of what can be achieved when you combine an amazing group of people with an amazing piece of technology.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 96 Critic Score
    If you are a fan of the Call of Duty zombie games then Black Ops Zombies is a must-own addition to your iPad library, if for no other reason than Dead-Ops Arcade. I've easily logged twice as many hours in that mode as the main FPS game, but that will likely change when new maps start to drop.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 84 Critic Score
    Diehard fans will definitely want to check the game out, but they are also the ones who are most likely to come away slightly disappointed. And if you aren't a legacy Soulcalibur fight veteran, you may want to just rent or wait for a price drop. There are a few more fighting games coming this year and Soulcalibur V has left plenty of room for improvement.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    PixelJunk SideScroller is a title that I could sit and play it for hours if wasn't for the need to sleep and other necessities. The simplicity of the game's design and the ease of use controls make it an easy game for anyone to pick up and play. Though it's totally up to the player if they have the determination to make it through 13 levels of enemy filled levels and creative bosses. If that's not enough then there are Leaderboards to top and trophies to earn for those looking for more of a challenge. IF you haven't already started downloading PixelJunk SideScroller you should be. Fun starts with the drop of a few coins.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    So if you love a fun and challenging shooter with a clever mix of styles and a killer assortment of boss battles then Nano Assault is definitely worth checking out. While 32 levels might sound like a lot, they are surprisingly short and fast, and competent gamers can blast their way through the Story Mode in 3-4 hours, but with the endless appeal of Arcade and Boss Rush modes there is enough addictive old-school arcade goodness to keep coming back for more microscopic carnage time and time again.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 94 Critic Score
    If you are already invested in the series then playing Revelations isn't even an option - it's mandatory. The story is just too important, and frankly, this is the best in the series when it comes to story and action sequences, and not even misplaced tower defense distraction and endless city domination missions can hold it back.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    At $20, The Kore Gang is a zany tale with an equally outlandish cast that I can easily recommend for a bit of family enjoyment.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 91 Critic Score
    But if any MMO game were to ever stand a chance of luring me back into the monthly-pay-to-play model, SWTOR is certainly it. With its movie-like presentation, engaging stories, and seemingly endless quest potential, this is one RPG that gets harder to put down the longer you keep playing. And I haven't even fully tapped into the advanced material like Guilds and serious PVP play. Combine all of this great content with one of the most stable and trouble-free launches in MMO history and you have your new role-model to which all other MMO games should aspire. Welcome to the future of online role-playing.
    • 61 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Medieval Moves: Deadmund's Quest is one of the smash hits of the holiday season, not just for Move but for family gaming in general. If you haven't added a PS Move to your PS3 then this might be the game to push you over the edge. Whether you buy the game as part of the hardware bundle or just pick-up the title by itself, you definitely want to add this game to your collection. I haven't had this much fun with my PS Move in a long time.
    • 65 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    Debuting at $40, Tekken Hybrid isn't a bad deal considering you are getting a feature film, an HD remake of a complete game, and a fantastic preview of a new one. Still, you have to be a pretty major Tekken fan to invest in this unique bundle that smacks of marketing hype – not that that's necessarily bad.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 94 Critic Score
    Stranger will suck you in, much like his bounty collection device, from the opening tutorial and you won't be able to put it down until the final boss fight and surprise ending.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    WWE '12 looks great, sounds great, and even comes with top-shelf presentation, and if it were not for the brutally difficult reversal system, the single-button system might not seem so bad – but the two together make for a game that is frustrating as heck and without any real reward.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    If you own a PSP at all and love a good horror story then I absolutely recommend getting Corpse Party from the PlayStation Network.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Once Upon a Monster is the finest Sesame Street game on the market, and one of the best Kinect games to date. This perfect blend of entertainment and enrichment fills a void on the home console, and provides a wonderful experience for the whole family.
    • 64 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    For families looking to have a good time with their Wii's this winter, I highly recommend taking a trip to Kawawii Island with Go Vacation. It may is not the best sounding or the prettiest game out there but Go Vacation packs in a wealth of fun for every member of the family.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 98 Critic Score
    Alone or with friends, Trine 2 is simply one of the best PC games you can play this year. You can check out the demo on Steam if you need further convincing because words and screenshots simply don't do this game justice. Just make sure you experience the magical of Trine 2. It is an unforgettable adventure that will keep you glued to your PC for days and weeks to come.

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