Minor flaws aside, The Sims 3 is a decent port of the PC version and extremely playable on the Xbox.

There is no doubt that the driving mechanics of Rivals are fantastic, and most of the game's systems are a success. However, it's a multiplayer-oriented game that fails to bring players together, and the content elsewhere is merely good.

Toy Story 3 isn't without its problems, but anyone seriously considering purchasing it to expand their Toy Story experience this year won't be disappointed.

Blood Bowl 2 is a deceptively simple yet tactically deep turn-based sports game well worth your time. For maximum utility, avoid the campaign mode and join a league as soon as possible.

So yes, there's a good game in Rhythm Thief. It's a game that's not shy about its commitment to accurately evoking the skill and dexterity required of a master thief and master dancer, and as a result it's a fun and formidable challenge, regardless of whether Raphael is stomping the yard or stomping some goons. However, that game's built into a story so anodyne, so unimaginative, so resolute in its seriousness, that it's almost not worth the pain.

The 80's return in style with this fantastic remake. Lode Runner strikes back with new graphics and fluid controls. The game is beefy enough to warrant the price tag, and polished enough to warrant our praise.

Its characters aren't much chop, but The Evil Within 2 coughs up some gruesome enemies and scares, while mostly justifying its shift to an open world design.

Elegant design, streamlined but effective storytelling, and expertly executed game systems make the Road to Eden a journey well worth undertaking.

Pikuniku is a hilarious game that’s oozing with charm. Its single player campaign is full of moments that make you feel like a kid again, and its co-op mode is surprisingly relaxing. Unfortunately its charm is let down by a clumsy control scheme that doesn’t always mesh with some of the mechanics, and this can create an experience that ultimately feels unrewarding.

Like many of its big stars, the WWE series shows its age more with each passing year, but the latest model proves there are still a few cans of whoop-ass left in the tank.

Spider-Man: The Heist feels like a condensed version of the main game. The new story is immediately intriguing and Black Cat makes for a wonderful addition to the cast. If you enjoyed Spider-Man at launch, you need to check out The Heist.

Ratchet & Clank Trilogy is a largely successful port of the much-loved action platformer. Looking on them in 2014, though, the flaws are more apparent, and the a couple of design decisions don't translate to the Vita all that well.

Mass Effect: Andromeda is a paradox: it's both disappointing and excellent. A mammoth title, it delivers tons of great content, but hamstrings itself with a poor first few hours, a few horrible systems, and some uninspired scenarios. Even so, it's pretty great.

Fright of the Bumblebees is a somewhat cautious start for the Wallace & Gromit's Grand Adventures series. It's great to see the pair back for more madcap mayhem, but it'd certainly be welcome to see a bit more action with subsequent episodes.

It looks like Zelda and plays like Dynasty Warriors. Yep, it does pretty much what it says on the tin.

Same old game, new tracklist… ‘nuff said. If it’s shiny new features you’re after, check out the PS3 version.

More in-depth than its predecessor, Box Office Smash updates the Xbox 360-dedicated franchise with a ton of new questions, a couple of new puzzle modes and online play. Still a great way to entertain the family on those long winter nights ahead.

Yes, there are moments of brilliance here - Archery, Bocce and Gladator Duel do absolutely demonstrate that the technology is sound - it's just presented in such a bland manner that you could be forgiven for thinking Move was only ever designed to be a curious peripheral targeted at the EyeToy market, and it wasn't until Microsoft's arm-flapping last year that they decided to take it mainstream.

It's not going to be winning any Game of the Year awards, but it is good fun and a good sign that the Mortal Kombat series might finally be on its way back to figuring out what made it so great to start with… just with less blood this time, but hey, there's always the next game right?

Armello is a solidly-constructed and enjoyable turn-based title that offers a unique setting and plenty of depth.

While the game play additions do mix it up slightly, the game often feels like a huge expansion rather than a stand-alone release.

Devil May Cry 4: Special Edition, despite its flaws, is definitely worth getting for both old fans and new.

If you're an old fan of the series, Climax is a good way to bring the nostalgia up-to-date, but for those used to getting more out of current-gen titles than an arcade sense of speed, it may not be worth the asking price.

Rather repetitive and simple. Short with no replay incentive.

A solid sequel which expands on the previous title. It's not perfect, but it is a huge amount of fun, and the added minion abilities really help, as well as the new gameplay elements which break up the monotony.

A solid continuation of an already excellent story. The same humour, graphics, gameplay and more as found in the first title, with another enthralling and amusing tale thrown in. Well worth it if you enjoyed Episode One!

Kingdom Hearts 3D has a really good game, perhaps even a great game, at its core. The slick central combat mechanics, sharp graphics, colourful neon-laced design, and childhood-baiting Disney properties all combine to present a game that is often a lot of charming, exciting fun. However, the adage still stands - less is more, and these positive attributes could be so much easier to enjoy if they weren't being broken up by bad writing, frustrating boss battles and a ludicrous excess of development.

This is a truly dark game that has a compelling and mysterious story. You will be on the edge of your seat as the mystery gradually unfolds. The game breaking bugs of the initial release, and the need to mod the game, severely affect the rating of what would otherwise be a very good game.

This is cyberpunk! An ugly-beautiful dystopia dripping with atmosphere. Emergent game play and the freedom to play how you want make Satellite Reign not only a worthy successor to Syndicate, but in many ways the superior game.

Revelations is a lesser experience on console simply because more is expected. Upsized for TVs, several flaws become apparent. A great game on handheld, here it’s merely acceptable.

This is one of the better movie spin-off games we have seen on the DS in a while. Great game play that will appeal to speed freaks, however the car combat aspects are under done and disappoint when compared to releases of this game on other platforms. The difficulty level may put off the younger player.

F.E.A.R. 3 has faced numerous challenges to even be noticed in a sea of comparable titles this year. Despite being lumbered with a the dregs of a story even Alan Duff wouldn't accept royalties for, the adaptation and evolution inherent in the wildly challenging co-operative and online multiplayer modes will likely endear this creaky franchise to a whole new spectrum of gamers.

The single player mode does ramp up the difficulty early on in the piece so don’t expect to blitz it like many arcade racers, it does present a worthy challenge. But as with the mighty Mario Kart, Sonic & SEGA All-Star Racing has its focus firmly on the multiplayer whether it be online or splitscreen with some mates.

Gran Turismo Sport looks great, but a lack of content, some dodgy AI, and an always-online requirement see it limp into the pits. Still, how 'bout them interiors?

W.M.D does more than enough to justify its existence. In fact, it gets the series back on track after several recent-ish disappointments. Now 25 titles deep, Worms is truly the cockroach of the gaming world.

I'd suggest that if you managed to make it through the entire game the first time around, then you owe it to yourself to purchase The Passing. Sure, it's short, but the mutation mode is set to add a heap of gameplay over the coming months, so get on board sooner rather than later.

The first episode of Life Is Strange is a mixed bag – the dialogue grates and inspecting items is a bore, but there is promise elsewhere. With the story's foundations laid down, the next episode could be a standout.

X-Morph: Defense is a superb tower defense title with a twist. Those looking for solid action with a side of strong strategic elements will find a lot to love with EXOR Studios excellent take on the genre.

Minor issues aside, Ridge Racer 3DS proves to be a solid arcade racer with plenty of content to justify the price tag.

There’re other arcade golf games to be enjoyed if that is what you desire and while this game does make par, it’s certainly no eagle.

A children's game that for once delivers the movie experience to the console. Its initial slow pace soon delivers a lot of fun and humour that you would expect from a game of the movie.

Gamers who loved the original Mafia despite all its flaws will no doubt embrace the story and flair that this title has, however others expecting another sandbox free-roam title will be dreadfully disappointed, because that, it is certainly not.

An entertaining, original and funny platformer that really gives a boost to the XBLA. Easily one of the best games on the arcade and well worth the price. It is lacking somewhat in the length, and a few more levels would have been nice, but the announcement of DLC will hopefully rectify that. Unfortunately no multiplayer, but the single-player more than makes up for it, with its stellar gameplay and graphics.

In an attempt to find as much fan favour as possible, Electronic Arts have managed to spread this title a bit too thinly over both the RPG and card playing genres. There is an entertaining game here, but you might struggle to find it.

Patapon 2 Remastered doesn't introduce anything new to the game, but is still fun to play for fans of the genre. Input lag can unfortunately rear it's ugly head, which can make an already difficult game, nigh impossible on harder difficulties. It's tough to recommend this one for any but the most devout of fans as there are a wealth of better rhythm based games out there right now.

The game has what many modern, and slightly more polished titles don't have; a real sense of fun.

The Evil Within is a fine example of classic survival horror, but it's held back a little by some stiff characterisation and flat story beats.

The digital realization of this popular game is equally impressive, as the developers have done an amazing job of retaining the essence of the card game.

Overall this is a cracker of a game that certainly deserves a look by first person shooter fans. However, it does need to be viewed as primarily a multiplayer game -- the solo campaign is good but short, and is really just a precursor to the main event, when you head online.

The Night of the Rabbit wins easy points for its beautiful imagery, clever puzzles and dialogue, but the experience is held back by substandard animations and a lack of mechanical polish.

Ruiner's cyberpunk carnage and soundtrack evoke Hotline Miami, even if the gameplay doesn't quite measure up. It's a spectacle, but it's over too soon.

Get Even is a strange game. It's almost schizophrenic in its execution, but The Farm 51 should be applauded for trying something different. It represents what I love about independent game development: it maybe a little rough around the edges, but it takes risks and provides a truly unique experience. For that I applaud it, even if I cannot unreservedly recommend it.

Naruto’s first outing on the PS3 manages to stay true to the anime whilst making the most of next-gen grunt. Sure, there are a few minor nit-picky issues and the relatively simple ‘button mashing’ style of fighting may not suit everyone, but fans should be well pleased with the total package.

Concrete Genie is a wonderful game for younger gamers. From its stunning graphics and art style to the heartwarming story of childhood and the effects we can have on others, the game delivers its message beautifully. I just wish it could have been a bit longer. It's definitely a bit simple for adults, but if you're looking for the perfect game to play with your kids, I can't recommend it highly enough. It's one of the most lovely little adventures I've been on this year.

A Bunnylord, gruesome pixellated deaths, politics by force, and sliding while shooting...After reading that, you already know if Not A Hero is for you.

While it's certainly the definitive Attack on Titan game, A.O.T 2’s repetitive missions and lackluster online mode will quickly turn stale the freshness of the updated gameplay.

A fast paced, fluid tennis simulation. The steep learning curve will put off those wanting a quick, arcade tennis bash, but if you take the time to learn the game it is a rewarding, fun experience.

There is still an extremely functional, good, even, racer beneath the surface, but in this genre that isn't enough to save the game.

New series guardian Sanzaru Games has taken great care to emulate the gameplay of prior Sly Cooper titles, which gives Thieves in Time an overly familiar but comfortable feel. A polished experience, it nonetheless won't challenge adults, and its one-dimensional characters aren't likely to captivate.

Another year, another Rock Band release. Following on from the success that was The Beatles: Rock Band, it's back to basics for this Green Day homage.

Iron From Ice's weak characters and water-treading story don't get the series off to a great start, but there is hope things will improve.

Although it fails to provide any real competition to the bigger action titles out there, Wolverine is fast, fun, and definitely angled at fans of the comics. It might not have the longevity required to be considered epic, but if you can ignore the repetitive nature of the combat you'll have a blast.

What I can say is that I had a blast with it, and those who remember where Sonic came from probably will too.

Naruto-philes will love the new features and authenticity, but it probably doesn’t pose enough of a challenge to keep fighting game fans enthralled for long.

It's a charming little create-a-platformer that will endear itself to you even if – like the real article – it never truly takes flight.

Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris is a capable twin stick isometric puzzler best enjoyed cooperatively, some bugs and missing polish notwithstanding.

The story is satisfying, too. My only criticisms are that clocking in at under 80 minutes, Arkham VR is short and pretty simple. However, for a shade over 30 bucks, it's probably still worth it, particularly if you need an impressive looking and accessible title with which to impress your friends.

LEGO DC Super Villains is fun, but doesn't reinvent the brick. While playing on the strengths of titles that came before, Villains leans hard into the humorous and quirky narrative one expects from a LEGO title.

For those gamers who are all about the action, who care only about how many times the lead character can swear, and only want to smash everything in sight there is still a decent experience to be had. Certainly, if playing simply to relieve some stress, there's plenty of relief in gallivanting around a virtual world shredding enemies with giant knives.

If Red Faction: Armageddon isn't treated like it's going to revolutionize the gaming world, it won't disappoint. It's a solid third-person shooter, there are a bunch of cool weapons and nasty surprises down in those mines. At the same time, there is an immutable sense of repetition at play and things are pretty simplistic in the design department.

FlatOut is a mix of the extreme racing seen in the Burnout series combined with the crazy stunts that you would see in Jackass. It's different, and offers something for both the speed freaks and crash-n-burn junkies.

Despite its faults, or all the things that could have been more polished, there's a lot of enjoyment on offer. If only Danger Close and DICE were prepared to put in just a little bit more effort during the development process to separate Medal of Honor from the rest of the flock in this saturated genre, we could have been looking at something very special indeed.

Darksiders Genesis is a welcome addition to a solid franchise and does a good job at expanding on the universe. Despite the shift in camera perspective, the game retains its signature blend of combat, puzzles and platforming and is a joy to play. Small issues like a woeful map and occasional bugs get in the way of the action a little, but the addition of co-op and the excellent gameplay more than makes up for any shortfalls. Genesis is a must-play for fans of the series and those looking for some solid action on the Switch.

A simple fighting game, designed for fans of the Naruto.

Spider-Man: Shattered Dimensions is an opportunity missed. For all its ambition, wit and comic aesthetic, it feels rushed out the door.

Rad isn’t really dramatically reinventing any wheels, but it’s the perfect wee game to have sitting on your HD for some casual fun. You can bust out a run in its delightfully weird world in an hour or so and have a slightly different experience each time. It may not inspire the sort of rabid devotion of something like Spelunky, but it’s a great gaming snack between meals.

If multiplayer hadn’t been a broken mess the game probably would have scored higher and while good fun, Army of Two fails to be a great game.

Semblance is fun game that nails the fundamentals, but the limited scope and brevity don’t allow it the opportunity to really shine. Puzzle-platform fans will enjoy what is on offer here but will be left wanting for more.

While Starlink may be a bit expensive for some, there's a tremendously fun game hiding beneath the toys-to-life options. The core combat loop stays satisfying throughout the journey. It's a great first entry in a new IP and I'm excited to see what else Ubisoft does to expand on the universe and gameplay.

Just Cause 3 understands what the essence of the series is – impressively chaotic sandbox action – and it duly provides mountains of it. Just don't expect too much from the story.

With a stronger protagonist and better combat and RPG systems, Blackguards 2 is a more engaging, more incisive game than the original.

As with all JRPG titles, you'll either love it or loathe it. Resonance of Fate does require a higher level of dedication than most, however.

Old school JRPG throwback I Am Setsuna tells an interesting story with a fittingly sombre tone, but features none of the combat oomph of its predecessors.

Hotline Miami 2 boasts a much larger scope than its predecessor but to its detriment the game insists on channelling players through an optimal path. A competent follow-up.

In its desire to to be stewards worthy of the prestigious Arkham series, Warner Bros Montreal has played it too close. Arkham Origins is well executed and sure to keep fans satisfied, but it doesn't dare to bring enough new ideas to warrant higher praise.

Far Cry Primal is more and yet less of the same Far Cry we’ve been playing for the past few years, minus a few fun systems. It's not worth the asking price, and demands more of your time than it deserves.

A thoroughly entertaining game that has a wide appeal for young and old. The low level of violence and simplicity of challenge makes it easy to play. A good solid family game that we highly recommend.

Disney Infinity is okay but it could be so much more. It has a few gameplay shortcomings but its biggest flaw is its lack of heart. It feels more like a fan's attempt at each universe rather than the loving homage it could be.

Super Stardust Ultra is basically a prettier and marginally expanded version of Super Stardust HD that can only really be recommended to newcomers.

While Layers of Fear hews close to horror game tradition all too often, it does offer enough innovation to make it a worthwhile experience - especially when played after dark.

Ripped straight from the movie, you warm up your Proton Pack and do battle with some of the film icons, plus a few new ones. A heap of ectoplasmatic fun for anyone who still smiles at the siren sound and the iconic “who you gonna call” theme song.

Easily the most substantial of the early titles and one that is sure to enthral young players as well as the young at heart.

For Guitar Hero fanatics, Warriors of Rock will be well received, although it may struggle to restore interest for those who stashed their guitars away after World Tour.

Essentially there's very little to whinge about with UFC Undisputed 2010 on the PSP – it's easier to play than its bigger brothers so provides a nice entry point into the genre, yet experienced MMA gamers will appreciate the depth and being able to take their fighting on the road.

What’s here works well enough, but it lacks soul, and if there’s any motivation to continue it’s only that you want to see it through - a damning indictment for any game.

I wanted to love Journey to the Savage Planet, but ultimately it falls short. While the world and its inhabitants are well-designed, the lack of any real payoff in both story and gameplay leads to an altogether forgettable journey. While some of the game's jokes hit the mark, there's just not that many reasons to grab your spacesuit and gun for this adventure.

The singleplayer is an enjoyable run-and-gun through Wolfenstein’s Nazi-occult premise but the multiplayer is something of a disappointment.

All in all, Giana Sisters: Twisted Dreams - Owltimate Edition is a great platformer that lets you get by as you learn and feels great to ace once you nail the skills. It looks cool, works well in both handheld and docked modes, has tight controls, and enough depth to make replaying its copious content worthwhile. Recommended.