LEGO Indiana Jones isn't without its flaws-the lack of online co-op is almost criminal-but it so beautifully mixes the spirit of a beloved adventure series with the playful heart of cherished childhood toys that it feels like much more than the sum of its angular parts.

Frog collecting isn't something that sounded appealing to me before playing this game, but NimbleBit has made it surprisingly addictive.

The generic blend of fantasy elements doesn't detract from the fact that this is a fast-paced, compelling, excellently designed strategy game. Try it if you found "Advance Wars" too simple and "Final Fantasy Tactics" too complex.

King of Fighters XIII is a title that every fighting game fan should take notice of. It's gorgeous and surprisingly accessible, yet challenging and deep for competitive play. There's no shortage of solo gameplay appeal, either: the characters are great, the story is intriguing, and there's a wealth of varied content to keep you playing.

I suspect that some people will find their enthusiasm drained more than mine by the shallow enemy gene pool, but even they're bound to get swept away by the myriad pleasures of tearing up town as a ghoulish and preternaturally fleet-footed shape-shifter.

A killer combination of awesome controls and realistic details, proving to be much more fun than EA Sports' "Triple Play Baseball."

An incredibly solid title with plenty to see, do and most importantly, rock out to. Brandishing some stellar new Competitive play concepts (Do or Die, Momentum) not to mention some incredibly creative new stages to play on, Guitar Hero 5 stays true to its franchise roots and rocks just about as hard as anyone could expect it to. With its astounding variety and tried-and-true formula, it's truly hard to find fault with Guitar Hero 5 without resorting to nitpicking.

In my opinion, Halo 3: ODST is the best Halo game yet. The campaign is shorter than in previous games, but the quality makes for a punchier, action-packed thrill ride from start to finish.

A masterpiece of cinematic, anime-inspired, science-fiction storytelling, but only if you have the patience (and time) to endure cinemas that can last upwards of 45 minutes.

With a four-player mode and user-created remixes, the replay value goes through the roof.

Crackdown is ridiculously fun, and that "Halo 3" beta code may go unused for longer than you think. [Mar 2007, p.88]

With over 16 levels, three levels of difficulty, and an engaging plot-oriented story rivaling most in-depth RPG games, Astroy Boy: Omega Factor is highly recommended to all. [Sept 2004, p.92]

RFII isn’t a landmark game or an astoundingly innovative one, but it sure is a lot of fun to play.

The sensation of speed as you rocket down the mountain will truly rattle your senses, and the exceptional control pays off nicely.

I was pretty sure that I would get bored with Axe in Face after a level or two, but the introduction of special abilities like the lightning bolt and unique enemies that must be attacked in different ways added variety to the game and kept me hooked for several consecutive hours.

Super Street Fighter IV is just more of a good thing and fans of the original have plenty of reasons to invest in it. But seasoned players who didn't care for the original SFIV won't have any reason to like the update because, despite the improvements and additions, the fundamental gameplay hasn't changed.

Some of the new play elements miss the mark, but overall Zero is a long, rewarding night of fright.

The second installment in Infinite Interactive's popular series of puzzle/RPG hybrids has finally hit iOS devices, and while it shines on the iPad's plentiful screen acreage, it struggles on smaller Apple devices.

Sound in GT2 is again top notch. The cars sound real, down to minute changes in tone after you make high-powered modifications.

Rocketbirds: Hardboiled Chicken is a blast to play. A title with a silly premise, satisfying action, plenty of content (15 solo chapters and 10 co-op) and a first rate game presentation is hard not to cluck about.

With its slick voice-command system, depth of strategy and frenetic action, EndWar is one game I'll still be playing after its evaluation. [Dec 2008, p.96]

So here's the real question: Does UT3 live up to high bar set by its prestigious predecessors? On a gameplay level, absolutely but on a visual level, it doesn't leave as lasting an impression. If you were a fan of the previous games, particularly the first Unreal Tournament, then UT3 is a definite must-buy.

It's really pretty incredible how dense this game is.

Dirt offers a really cool and even moving story for the price of a bottled water. If you want a really interesting way to spend an hour, Dirt is more than worth your time and dollar.

If you own an iPhone, DS, or PSP, those are probably better platforms to play this on, but this iPad version is still a great game that perfectly captures the console GTA experience.

Considering everything you get with this title -- a solid single player campaign, a diverse multiplayer suite, and just plain fun shooter gameplay -- Section 8: Prejudice is a steal at $15. Just get to it before Nic Cage ruins it.

If you didn't like the original game, this expansion probably won't change your mind, but if you loved "The Sims," then "Livin' Large" will have you lovin' it even more.

Even if you played the original Onimusha on the PS2 within an inch of its life, Genma provides enough new elements to merit repeating the adventure. But beware newbies: This game is tough.

It's not quite the flagship title you might expect for a Nintendo launch, but Luigi's Mansion is still a must-have.

A fun game with some very noticeable flaws and some less-than-stellar presentation, but in the end it's a memorable adventure I'd certainly recommend to any aspiring roadie. It comes pre-packaged with its fair share of issues, quirks and bugs, but all of the near-misses in the world can't take the fun out of this inspired adventure. [Jan 2010, p.70]

Need for Speed has its game down to a science at this point. [Jan 2006, p.82]

The gameplay finally matches the graphics, and the result is what basketball fans want and need in a PS2 game.

Fans of the animated series will definitely be delighted to experience the One Year War from the side of the Principality of Zeon.

Political junkies will almost certainly find themselves sucked in, along with those who have only a smattering of knowledge about the American political process.

One of the most challenging match-your-fingers-to-the-onscreen-button-presses game since the sub-genre’s conception.

Offers more multiplayer options than you’ll likely ever use combined with a single-player experience that’s wonderful but somewhat typical. Still, it’s the best PC D&D game ever, bar none.

Fight Night Round 4 lacks some of the wow factor of its predecessor, but it builds upon the strengths of Round 3 and corrects most of its weaknesses.

A game that not only reaffirms the series' greatness, but is easily once of the best handheld games released this year.

For all its similarity to Silent Hill 2, the third installment still manages to set itself apart with more variety, slightly improved combat, more logical puzzles, a different enough story, and even better visuals in their own grainy nonconformist way.

The most distinguishing difference between Half-Life and its PC counterpart is the sharper visual presentation.

Aside from the Leon bait-and-switch, there are few surprises in Onimusha 3—it’s a great game that fits like an old glove, so the old saying goes. A soul-sucking, flesh-leeching glove with one creepy, blinking, hollow eye.

Music is absent from the game, but you probably won't notice that either with the sounds of revving engines, squealing tires, and flying trashcans filling your ears.

No doubt about it Tiger Woods 08 offers up an excellent round of 360 golf. The gameplay upgrades are right on and GamesNet promises unlimited potential for online action.

This slick, retro-inspired platformer impresses with its responsive controls, addictive gameplay, and well-designed (if sometimes tough-as-nails) levels.

An absolutely gorgeous game, packing in fantastic animations, lavish player models, and stadiums with cool details like flags waving in the stands.

College is all about learning to be creative, and College Hoops 2K7 opens up a world possibilities both on and off the court.

It doesn't reinvent the wheel with new gameplay mechanics or revamped graphics, but WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2010 excels once again as the definitive pro wrestling game on the market. Fans of the series and pro wrestling alike should definitely put it in their queues. [Dec 2009, p.77]

Despite some screen layout flaws, Nintendogs is infectiously cute, and pretty addictive. It's really easy to form an emotional bond with your puppies--they're so life like. Who knew rubbing a pixilated sprite could be so enjoyable.

A fast, frantic blast.

Occasionally the platform-leaping gets tedious and some of the levels needed more work, but nevertheless Outcast dominates.

The fun I had with the rock-solid gunplay and extensive role-playing elements was considerably amplified by each additional player. Borderlands is an absolute blast that I'll go back to again and again, even if my friends aren't around to help out.

By a fair margin, NCAA March Madness 2004 comes out on top in the showdown against "ESPN College Basketball."

Whether through it's trademark music or unique take on the film's plot, The Godfather does something that licensed video games have tried and failed to accomplish in the past - give gamers a good time and an experience worthy of the film it's emulating.

Easy to pick up and tough to put down, Wizard Hex is a novel and enjoyable board game concept that works well on iOS devices.

Hardly a groundbreaking fighting game, but it delivers a massive lineup of classic characters coupled with a tried-and-true fighting engine. It’s rock-solid fighting, plain and simple.

If you aren't familiar with the Revelations series this is the perfect chance to jump into a deep, exciting new experience.

Of course, "Hot Shots Golf 3" is still the definitive “everyone’s game” that appeals to all skill levels, but parents looking for something to play with young kids can’t go wrong with Disney Golf.

Bubble Bobble Plus!, with its great music, tons of content and multiplayer, finally has pulled WiiWare out of the slump it’s been in.

The most remarkable new feature, though, is the cavernous Career mode.

If playing the divine hand to a house full of simulated people appeals to you, this is as good as it gets.

The voice acting is downright hideous, but Prince of Persia: The Two Thrones wraps up in a tight PS2 package that is, quite possibly, the best game in the series.

One of the freshest, funniest car combat romps to date.

If RE4 has any problem, it goes on a little too long (it spans two discs), with one boss battle and plot twist too many. However, there's an extensive reward system, including unlockable content that adds excellent replay value.

If you've never played Portal before all you need to know is that it's a must buy, plain and simple. Quit reading right now and download it.

It shows a lot more polish and precision than previous versions, and will give you hours of hard checking NHL and international team competition.

It’s easier to communicate between teammates on and off the battlefield using the headset. There isn’t as much breakup or static when you talk, plus you can now identify who’s actually talking.

This highly entertaining, visceral experience that pretty much blows away every FPS I've recently played on anything resembling a handheld is cheaper than a big-brand cuppa joe.

It's limited without feeling restricted, and at no point will you feel like there isn't enough content to keep you coming back. Most importantly, though, it's enough change to make something you've done to death feel fresh and exciting again. It reminds you why you were obsessed with it in the first place.

Being able to focus on finding an open receiver without worrying as much about the split-second paranoia of protecting my player was a welcome relief.

Brings more than just fierce punches and kicks -- it features an engaging story and plenty of gameplay modes that offer a high replay value. Hands down, this is one of the best PS2 games.

All anyone really needs to know however is that 3rd Strike looks great, plays great, sounds great and is the definitive version of the SFIII series.

Cut the Rope should be another huge hit for Chillingo. The simple premise is executed with clean, beautiful graphics, responsive multi-touch controls, awesome physics, and top-notch level design. Om Nom never ate so well.

With an enormous world to explore, a great variety of puzzles, and a whole lot of humor, Grandia is sure to please any RPG fan who hungers for hours of immersing gameplay and puzzle solving.

But if you're looking for a unique fighting experience with tons of charm and wit then look no further than BlazBlue. [Aug 2009, p.80]

There's an incredible amount of fun that comes from filing the shoes of some of the most inspiring musicians ever to walk the earth, and Harmonix captures this experience with same sense of magic that the Beatles were known for. It's well worth the price of admission, even if you forgo the replica instruments and stick to your stock Rock Band gear.

There's no shortage of modern racers, but most of the current crop seem obsessed with the attitude of tuner culture than racing itself. Toca Racer Driver 3 has no truck with that: It's all about the driving experience. [Mar 2006, p.80]

You'll be hard-pressed to score more than a couple goals. But that just mirrors real life, and the action delivers plenty of thrills.

Flawlessly paced progression keeps you playing for leaner lap times; a newfound sense of speed makes each race seem like protracted suicide; and down-to-the-nuts-and-bolts details assure authenticity--as the box says, this is the drive of your life.

I just hope they tweaked and improve the formula to address the issues I raised earlier because even with those small bumps in the road, Split/Second is still a worthy heir to Burnout's throne. If they can smooth out the ride, it will definitely deserve to wear the crown.

Team stats overall are better balanced (not blatantly favoring South American and European teams), selection of International teams more diverse, and the Master League mode is easier to delve into.

While the controls can get a tad touchy and the visuals aren't quite as crisp as they once were, any gamer in the know deserves to check this game out. It's just that good.

It's about time Nintendo 64 gamers got a chance to survive the horror. Capcom finally brings the PlayStation classic to the Nintendo 64, and they've done the impossible. The problem is that the N64 isn't quite the best place for this evil to take residence.

The transition from flying a plane to steering a four-wheeled armored truck to shooting a gun in first-person view is smooth, addicting, and, best of all, keeps the pace of the action consistent enough for you to be involved to the very end. [July 2002, p.74]

Defiance shines with pure entertainment value, with crisp and gorgeous visuals and squishy sounds that invoke the feeling of steel crushing flesh.

While it’s not quite as deep as the older SNES game, there’s still a whole lot to like, and with so many potential character customization options it’ll keep you preoccupied for many, many an hour.

While it covers the same ground, there has been enough of a shift from the old roots to ensure the experience stays fresh while maintaining the features that have made the series the premier example of grand strategy on the PC today.

This fast-paced action game has a slick retro aesthetic, and is sure to keep players coming back with its varied and challenging gameplay.

Enjoy the game for what it is and get better to beat your friends. It's entirely worth it.

The quest is absolutely enormous, especially for this style of game, with tons of lengthy missions and a few character-specific side-quests. There’s also a great weapon-and-item customization feature that vastly increases the already impressive equipment possibilities.

I'm highly impressed by how EA has managed to change up the formula of Mirror's Edge to work on a touch-screen device without losing the unique feel of the franchise, and if you were a fan of the console game you can't go wrong with this portable release.

You know this gameplay: There’s been a lot of excellent tuning but no mammoth overhauls.

It's very demanding and frequently frustrating, but it's a lot of fun (more fun than the original, for sure) for those who have what it takes. The game also rewards the elite more than any other game of its type.

Plays like Zelda with bombs instead of swords and shields.

Despite some minor griping, Legendary Wars is a very good title with great longevity and a design that adapts equally well to both casual gaming and longer, more involved playing sessions.

Stunning visuals, blistering speed, interactive environments, and explosive gameplay combine to give car combat junkies their fix.

Sims fans everywhere, from the casual to the hardcore, will absolutely love all of the new additions that are packed in here. World Adventures is guaranteed to impress -- it may just be the most ambitious expansion in the franchise yet -- and it will add hours upon hours of new areas to explore and new Sims to meet.

This is definitely not a title for the casual gamer, but if you're a fan of the franchise or just really love throwing half-naked men off ladders and pinning them to the ground, then WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 is about as good as it gets.

Despite my frustration with what Dance Central can't do, I'm giving this game a high score for what it can. It can get me off my couch and sweating more than Wii Fit ever did. It can bring my friends and coworkers together for thirty minutes while we try to figure out what a "real" Cabbage Patch is. It can tempt non-gamers into giving it a go because unlike you maybe they actually can dance. And even if it can't wave a wand and make me a good dancer, it can inspire me to at least try.