It may be far less glamorous than new setlists and instruments, but the revamped user interface that underlies the whole experience is the game's most unqualified success. Fixing nearly every problem from previous installments, and layering in a whole new career structure, the new format is brilliant.

Halo 2 is the undisputed king of console multiplayer, and this expansion pack only strengthens its stance. [Sept 2005, p.108]

Every change Nintendo has made to this game is smart and serves a purpose, and I envy anyone that gets to experience The Wind Waker for the first time via this remake. It takes everything that made the original a classic and greatly improves on its visuals and quality of play. If you’re a fan of classic remakes, you can’t ask for much more.

This is both the ultimate Contra experience and one of the best action games in years. Do not let Contra 4 get lost in the holiday rush.

It may be far less glamorous than new setlists and instruments, but the revamped user interface that underlies the whole experience is the game's most unqualified success. Fixing nearly every problem from previous installments, and layering in a whole new career structure, the new format is brilliant.

War of the Chosen contains so much new content that it could almost have been called XCOM 3. Every mission dishes out a new enemy, mission type, or environment, which allows the game to remain fresh for several dozen hours. War of the Chosen’s wealth of interwoven systems might overwhelm newcomers, but strategy nerds willing to master the nuances will be treated to one of the most rewarding strategy games in years. I don’t know how Firaxis could make a more complex yet gratifying strategy game, but I can’t wait to see them try.

War of the Chosen contains so much new content that it could almost have been called XCOM 3. Every mission dishes out a new enemy, mission type, or environment, which allows the game to remain fresh for several dozen hours. War of the Chosen’s wealth of interwoven systems might overwhelm newcomers, but strategy nerds willing to master the nuances will be treated to one of the most rewarding strategy games in years. I don’t know how Firaxis could make a more complex yet gratifying strategy game, but I can’t wait to see them try.

Its sublime mix of puzzles, great bosses, perfectly paced exploration, and enormous variety make this an utterly amazing adventure. [Nov 2005, p.176]

The moment you finish the game, you'll be chomping at the bit for the inevitable Assassin's Creed III. [Dec 2010, p.112]

The near-flawless execution on every level makes the brilliant concepts at the game's core shine through with perfect clarity. Even if you've never played or so much as heard of the original game, Orcs Must Die 2 is worth a place of honor in your collection.

While not boasting a tone of new content, you can't help but find yourself completely entranced by the updated sequences and newfound graphical realism...Something that you'll cherish for a lifetime. [Mar 2004, p.108]

The intensity of the battles draws the players in, but the ability to improve your avatar...keeps you coming back for more. [July 2003, p.118]

As was the case seven years ago, I jumped out of my seat more times than I care to admit. The suspense is far greater. The gore more defined. [June 2002, p.80]

One of my favorite things about Yakuza 6 is that it delivers surprises at such a steady clip.

It might not be the huge revolution some hoped it would be, but this is a highly enjoyable and well-crafted trip down memory lane. [July 2006, p.112]

The character models are astounding, and some of the best I've seen in this genre. [May 2002, p.87]

Well written and expertly implemented. [Jan 2003, p.119]

The lackluster multiplayer is absolutely no reason to avoid what is otherwise one of the best action adventures I’ve ever played.

Crystal Dynamics has nailed a pitch-perfect new vision for one of gaming’s most recognizable characters, and revitalizes her for what I hope will be many more installments.

A crowning accomplishment for video games and one of the finest Star Wars stories ever told. [Feb 2005, p.120]

The gameplay exceeds any baseball title to date! [Apr 2003, p.83]

This release is nothing if not ridiculously and deliciously addictive. [Mar 2002, p.86]

Dark Souls III successfully replicates the winning formula of the Souls series, a wondrous combination of majestic boss battles, incredible layered environments full of secrets, and precise combat that can make other action RPGs difficult to play once you’ve mastered the art. If you’ve never played the series, this is a great place to begin, offering a bit more direction in the early game before opening up. If you’ve already played the series, you can feel confident that From Software hasn’t lost its touch.

Another nice addition is the "woozy" camera angles that appear when you or an opponent is nearly knocked down. It's a small touch, but a very dramatic one. [March 2005, p.115]

What is astounding is the replay value and depth added to the off the course shenanigans... Just like in real life, the coming of Tiger has changed the sport forever. [Oct 2003, p.139]

If you haven't already, go out and buy it. It's just that simple. [Apr 2007, p.104]

It feels like the development team took everything that wasn't completely awesome in the first game, shot it in the face, and smoothed over the holes with buttery goodness. [Dec 2003, p.179]

The extreme polish evident in the final product makes it all worthwhile. Both single- and multiplayer shine - at long last redeeming DICE for the crappy bot-fests offline players had to endure in previous games in the series. [July 2008, p.82]