Much of it looks and feels familiar, but 2K Games proved that there is a whole other side of Rapture worth exploring, as well as new and interesting stories to tell. Gripping, wondrous and at times horrifying, it's a superb effort that opens the door for perhaps another game, but don't worry about that. For now, put on that Big Daddy helmet and pay this phenomenal city a visit.

Geometry Wars: Galaxies takes everything good about Bizarre Creations' download hit and expands upon it.

Instead of blazing through the galaxy using a more traditional game controller, tackle enormous bosses and solve head-scratching puzzles using the Wii's remote and nunchuk. The experience is nothing short of extraordinary.

The game's presentation couldn't be better and the story provides some extra weight along with doses of humor.

The game that was already exceptional on the Xbox 360 is even better on the PC, so it's really a no brainer.

Seasoned pros will love the new performance challenges and multiplayer-oriented party games for local and online play. As for the remarkable set list, Activision delivers a mix of old and new, from artists like Iron Maiden, 3 Doors Down and Elton John.

Last year's race between 2K Sports and EA Sports' hockey franchises was almost a dead heat. This year, EA's NHL 09 takes Lord Stanley's Cup, thanks to a combination of what worked well last year and some sweet new features.

Dark Avatar still suffers from a few minor issues present in the original game, like non-allied aliens setting up colonies inside a rival faction's solar system without fear of repercussions. However, the positives far outweigh the negatives.

While the developers' decision to copy elements from Resident Evil 4 make it feel less original (despite better visuals and a new location), you'll have a blast (especially with a buddy) but after waiting four years for a sequel, we expected better.

With more than double the games and a new level of accuracy, Wii Sports Resort was worth the wait.

While we appreciate the new star power, the new too-difficult two-player Battle mode fails to impress and the new guitar, while sturdy and reliable, feels small in comparison to Rock Band's more realistic axe. Regardless, Guitar Hero still has that addictive quality. Combine that with an excellent soundtrack and online play, this mock rock simulator will have you jamming for months.

Although it doesn't entirely change the game around, this expansion makes enough improvements, allowing gamers to get lost in Middle-earth all over again.

Potential players don't need to fear it sucking away hours of their lives (although it still might), but they can look forward to an excellent game with some very amusing stories to tell.

While the game keeps its proverbial foot-tapping format, players must also wave their arms using the remote and nunchuk. New gimmick icons also enhance the gameplay, particularly the frozen arrows (which require two successful foot stomps) and confusion blocks.

Ultimately, the lack of mission variety cost Red Faction a higher score, but it's still an explosively fun time.

The word hardcore works for and against the game. On the positive side, BlazBlue features complex stories for each of its 12 fighters, magnificent art, special moves mapped to the right analog stick and lag free online play with detailed stat tracking. If you love anime, this is an essential purchase. On the negative side, however, BlazBlue's narratives make little sense, characters talk over one another before fights, others have long-winded dialogue and a steep learning curve will frustrate a lot of casual fighting fans hoping to button mash their way to victory; you just can't walk into this game expecting to unleash insane combos ala Marvel Vs. Capcom 2.

Even though its visuals and audio come up short, Monster Hunter Tri is one of Capcom's best. The gameplay grows on you after the first few monster kills, and teaming up with friends on epic quests never get old.

If you never got into the first game, then you'll probably skip this Ocean in favor of faster-moving waters. However, if you don't mind playing something with a laid-back pace, a gorgeous presentation, a strong co-op multiplayer component and lots of discovery, strap on the diving gear and enjoy this brand new world.

The multiplayer is excellent too, whether playing with someone locally or uploading scores to an online leaderboard.

Compared to the single player adventure, the multiplayer mode comes up short, but the 16 player firefights still offer some thrills.

Scribblenauts stands apart from the usual assortment of puzzle games, thanks to its charming design and wealth of possibilities. Don't let it fly under the radar. Go out and buy a copy right now.

The controls are great, as you can chain together Soul Charges and attacks without difficulty. Its graphics, despite a lack of widescreen support, look excellent.

Despite the fact that the game comes to an end quicker than expected, fans of Kojima's work and action/RPG games should pick it up without hesitation. Lunar Knights shines brightly... even without the power of the sun.

The bad news is that this edition doesn't really do too much new for the DDR series, aside from a nifty planet-cruising mode and a diverse song list. But the good news is that most of the crazy toe-tapping fun that you found in previous games is still present and accounted for, and this is the best the series is going to get for this generation.

The game can grow repetitive over time, but being able to use three multitalented superheroes helps the game significantly -- especially with two players working together. In addition, the graphics and sound excel, and at only $20, it's an essential purchase.

Multiplayer would've been cool, but these Legions will still keep you busy.

The controls click almost perfectly, the multiplayer options are through the roof, there's plenty to do on the single-player front and the characters and levels are like a treasure trove of Sega history.

Tekken 6 is still a quality fighter, from its straightforward and amusing gameplay to its rich presentation and huge roster. It falls short of Street Fighter IV, but it's still got enough power to knock you on your butt.

Even with the frame rate hiccups and the lack of online support, Earth Defense Force 2017 succeeds tremendously, thanks to its devastation and non-stop action. This piece of sci-fi cheesy goodness fits right in with Microsoft's meatier games -- very appetizing.

"Super Puzzle Fighter II Turbo," with its various modes and options, makes this well worth the $30. Challenging a friend in AdHoc never gets old, whether shooting bubbles into nothingness or dropping mad block combos to clear the screen in a devastating manner.

In any case, the immensely satisfying micro-level gameplay far outweighs the minor difficulty problems in the game -- if you're looking for a new timewaster on the PC, 360 or PS3, definitely give Droplitz a spin.

EA did an excellent job blending both genres and we enjoyed the humorous dialogue, cut scenes and gameplay, especially when Henry wrecks bad guys while piloting a giant robot. Fun, charming and addictive, Henry Hatsworth is one of the best games for the DS.

This Wii version doesn't see much in the realm of visual improvement, but with a handful of new missions, characters and classes, as well as good use of the remote, this is a necessary purchase for those who missed out the first time.

The wonky voice and touch screen recognition annoys us, but we always give Brain Age 2 another chance, probably because we buy Nintendo's line that it makes us smarter.

The episode also features trickier puzzles than some of the past games, which makes the new hint system all the more worthwhile. Although there were moments of confusion, we were still entertained by the newest adventure.

A steep learning curve, however, may impede their progress, especially without the benefit of a tutorial. Aside from that huge omission, Grand Slam Tennis is a well-made and fun game appropriate for wannabe tennis stars of all ages.

Punishing artificial intelligence, unbalanced online play and annoying lag will have you chucking your controller. Those small issues aside, Soulcalibur IV is razor sharp.

Bangai-O Spirits lacks a story mode, but it makes up for this with over 160 stages of explosive shooting action.

An auto-aim option makes the game easier than expected, and it would've been nice to see more of Resistance 2's magnificent weaponry in the game, but overall this is an action game that PSP fans shouldn't resist.

Despite the lack of online play and songs missing from the set list, Lego Rock Band's happy presentation, enjoyable soundtrack and rockin' gameplay will keep you entertained for quite some time.

Despite its simplistic characters and repetitive announcer, the game offers content galore with its near countless modes and fun gameplay.

This live action comic book" style game has enough button mashing to satisfy every brawling fan, and just enough role-playing elements to satiate those who like to have a little more control over their superheroes.

It's not the most comfortable way to play, but it is very effective way to jam with.

Some of the in-game events are tedious, like unlocking Leapgates or tracking down an enemy who is faster than you are, but Galactrix is still out of this world.

Although we zipped through the four "movies" in less than five hours, we can't stop playing co-operatively with friends via online play and competing against others in the thrilling Survivors vs. Infected, a four-on-four multiplayer mode where monsters attempt to slaughter their gun-wielding adversaries.

The game does grate on the nerves, simply because its characters have plenty of corny lines. However, those willing to look past and embrace its presentation will discover a wonderful adventure.

The best way to approach No More Heroes for the Nintendo Wii is with an open mind. It's a mesmerizing game with lots of blood-spilling action, but it's far from mindless.

One of the best DS games of 2008. Combining the addictive, strategic fun of Tower Defense with an excellent tale spanning over 20 hours, brilliant animation and easy to learn controls, it should secure its place in the hearts of gamers everywhere.

Obviously, critics will obsessively compare Dante's Inferno to other games, or complain about the quick time events, but don't let those nitpicky issues prevent you from experiencing this imaginative and fun adventure. It's one Hell of a good time..

You'll really dig the option of outrunning cops and keeping up with your rival makes this one revved up adventure that Midnight Club never runs out of gas.

Microsoft fans win the console pissing contest by default, thanks to Xbox Live. The 360 includes online play. The PlayStation 3 version doesn't, a puzzling decision that gives Sony's opponents one more thing to complain about.

Between the easy to learn interface, the "Monty Python" comedic theme and the FREE part... Dungeon Runners plays better than most pay-to-play MMOs, and therefore deserves attention.

Some visuals could have been cleaned up, and the SIXAXIS controls won't appeal to everyone, but for those who love a satisfying hockey experience will be happy with the thrills NHL 2K7 provides.

Gearbox has once again delivered a superb presentation with Mad Moxxi.

The game offers a ton of quality action for a low price.

The stylish menus and helpful narration give way to eye melting graphics featuring realistic tracks and cars with sick damage modeling.

Not every game in this collection will strike up wondrous memories of gaming's past, but Capcom choose some fine selections here that warrant constant play, alone or with a friend.

While control issues with the Wii Remote add more labor than needed at times, if you're looking to be a little more like Potter, you won't get any closer than this.

Despite the strong presentation and excellent voice acting, Kratos and his mythological pals have nothing to fear from Heavenly Sword. The game doesn't quite match "God of War"'s sense of pacing, character control and after plowing through another room of identical enemies, button-mashing until your thumbs are sore, you may eventually lose the urge to see what's around the next corner.

The beautifully sketched graphics give Room 215 a unique style. Although the game grows tedious, thanks to what seems like endless, scrolling text, surprises pop up every few minutes that further the plot. Definitely play this game.

The new faction adds a great new way to play, and every mode of gameplay, including multiplayer, has been reborn with nearly everything a gamer could ask for.

Being able to build your own Star Wars creations from other character parts is a hoot. Bottom line, Saga is excellent closure to the Lego Star Wars series.

The game looks gorgeous, featuring dark, seedy locales and superb special effects. The gallons of blood. The tentacle detail. The characters. It's without question one of the best looking video games...That notwithstanding, it's not the deepest of adventures.

It comes up short in certain areas when compared to the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 versions, but that doesn't stop it from being the best Wii football game.

Homecourt gets old after a while since it lacks the options found in the more robust "NBA 2K7," but players will delight in its light hearted take on basketball. Its theatrics, coupled with its gorgeous visuals, make it a fine addition to everyone's collection.

A digital slaughterhouse full of carnage that'll make you happy to be an adult Wii owner.

The game could've used a few more levels, along with an online co-op mode. However, there's still plenty to enjoy, with unlockable bonus characters, online scoreboards and Challenge Mode stages.

The overuse of power-ups is blatantly ridiculous and the general design hasn't changed much, but Kart is still a riotous romp.

It's a fun single player adventure with an equally entertaining multiplayer mode full of 16 player death matches. Although its graphics look dated, monotony quickly sets in as shooting the same bad guys and completing similar missions gets old. That said, The Godfather II makes for an ideal weekend rental.

Featuring a couple of new modes that are sure to intrigue fans and newcomers alike, as well as online support through song packs and online match-ups, this Universe is looking to be rather limitless...if you have dancing shoes, that is.

The gameplay is about the same, but fans of micromanagement and virtual pet care will thoroughly enjoy it. Co-op mode is fun as well, in case a frustrated player needs a hand from a parent or a buddy.

Personal Trainer Cooking is an ideal companion for budding chefs interested in learning their way around the kitchen.

The single-player campaign ends way too quickly, but the multiplayer campaign more than makes up for it with several co-op and competitive missions.

Some of the operations will drive you nutty, thanks to wonky controls and increased difficulty, but working alongside a friend makes things easier, and the ability to upload your scores to online leader boards offers unlimited replay value.

Borderlands surprised us. We went into the experience expecting a pulse-pounding shooter with fancy cut scenes and lots of drama (no surprise, since we play more FPS on consoles than RPGs), and instead found a slower-moving and tough (but immensely rewarding) slog through a beautiful fantasy world populated by imaginative monsters and more weapons than we know what to do with.

An extremely solid game of football. The motion-sensing SIXAXIS controller does nothing to improve the gridiron experience, but by and large, EA includes everything that makes the franchise great, from the easy to learn controls to the bone jarring tackles.

Invest immediately – unless you're a wuss.

The graphics are cheery and hilarious, with the Rabbids stealing the show from Rayman. The Wi-Fi Connection function is a nice touch, though it lacks online multiplayer. Invite these Rabbids to your next holiday party.

The in-game combat isn't bad either, if you can accept two things—there's not enough variety to the combat, and the extra effot to sneak around often isn't worth it. The guards can be real idiots, too. Past that, this Assassin cuts deep.

The multiplayer and co-op modes, through both Wi-Fi and local play, are superb.

Delivers next-gen golf as it was intended, delivering realistic golf gameplay that challenges even the best players, the ability to create a golfer out of the blue, and a surprisingly robust online community loaded with events, tournaments, and ESPN Integration.

Even with its faults, Guitar Hero III is still a wildly addictive music game that works just as well, if not better, on the PC.

The drum set takes a while to get used to, setting up an online match is complicated and there are several repeat tracks from Rock Band 2. However, the gameplay is satisfying, the Music Studio is a wondrous addition, the song list is sweet and the presentation isn't bad.

Saints Row 2, despite looking awful, is a guilty pleasure that'll entertain you for hours as you streak across town, blow up cars and slice gang members with a samurai sword.

The gameplay is still as addictive as ever, as you tear a hole through the Bydo Empire using power-ups such as reflective lasers and missiles. The difficulty is incredibly high (bullets come at you from every direction), but the newly added stage select and Infinity options relieve some frustration.

Wii Sports certainly won't be hailed as the most realistic sports sim on the market, but it's the best thing - next to a bottle of tequila - to take to a friend's holiday house party.

It suffers from a few issues (sloppy lip-syncing, repetitive music, unbalanced difficulty), but Ghostbusters: The Video Game is a must play for fans as well as gamers in search of a new shooter.

With levels and controls akin to Marble Madness, as well as slick platforming elements and a refreshing combat mode, Dewy's Adventure will satisfy the kid in you, while maintaining an environmentally conscious message without being overly preachy.

NCAA Football 08 does for EA's vaunted franchise what Carson Palmer did for USC a few years ago -- it ushers in a return to glory.

Even though it doesn't address the original's faults or expand the gameplay to new heights, there's more than enough new content (talents, characters, terrain to explore) to keep you swinging your sword.

The game comes to its conclusion sooner than expected, with only a few unlockables to take advantage of. Nevertheless, here's a handheld game that cuts deep.

Combine the fighting with the grand presentation, visuals that include sweaty characters, large breasted ring girls and detailed arenas, and UFC 2009 Undisputed has the teeth rattling brutality fans crave.

The presentation is excellent (for the most part) and the online functionality is an astonishing add-on, letting you compete against others in various activities.

The modes maintain their phenomenal impact, with franchise and online options to keep you busy throughout the season -- and well into next year.

It's certainly mind-bending at times, but also relaxing. With a level editor in tow, there's more than enough here to warrant a purchase.

Although the single-player quests might invoke a sense of deja vu, Pokemon enthusiasts will love the brand new story and other small tweaks added to the game. The new online battles, however, make this a Pokemon essential for anyone's -- fanboy or not -- DS collection.

It knows what works best, and rather than reinvent the wheel it focuses on smoothing out the kinks. Visual and performance drawbacks aside, Madden NFL 08 more than suffices.

Incredibly accessible thanks to an ample introductory section of the game which teaches new players the ins and outs of the genre.