Tremendous depth, great story, original gameplay-Deus Ex is the kind of game that almost shocks you with how good it is.

Ninja Gaiden II is a slick and thrill packed action game but it's nowhere near the masterpiece that fans have been clamoring for. It's worth playing through and you'll have plenty of fun but finicky camera and uneven difficulty definitely cuts into the fun.

This year's version of Tiger Woods PGA Tour is as sweet as a 350 yard tee shot down the middle of the fairway. It will challenge experienced players while still providing enough teaching and lessons to acclimate even the newest of players.

While there's occasional pop-up and clipping, those glitches are trumped by smooth animation and incredible explosions. When an enemy Mech is trashed, the bright blast lights up the screen and ripples the surrounding terrain in the most satisfyingly way.

The courtroom antics of Phoenix Wright are well worth the trip, even if the formula hasn't changed.

Pokémon LeafGreen and Pokémon FireRed draw you into the mesmerizing world of strange little creatures no matter how many times you've been there before.

MVP executes one element of its game far better than any other title this year: It’s just stone-cold beautiful.

Although Solomon's Boneyard does all the things that gamers have come to expect from an iDevice dual stick shooter, it never really sets itself apart from the wealth of similar App Store entries.

If you’ve lived in the city your whole life and don’t know a dang thing about cows, don’t fret none: the controls are easier than ’possum pie.

By no means a perfect game - however, it's quite addictive and has the best controls for any soccer game so far. [Nov 2004, p.145]

If "serious" is the last thing you associate with hockey games, you’ll have a blast hammering out checks on Hitz' rink - especially since Midway’s rolled back the price a notch.

In short, it's one of the best value PC games you'll ever buy.

Stellar cell-shaded graphics, excellent voice acting (with Patrick Stewart reprising his cinematic role as Professor X), and multiplayer mayhem that make Legends look and feel like the A-list game that it is.

The question isn't if it's worth your time. It clearly is. The real question is if -- for only ten dollars -- you're ready to spend every free second you have in front of your computer, dominated by Critical Mass. It might be a blasphemous comparison, but this is an obsession of mine that's nearing Tetris proportions.

Overall, Puzzle Quest 2 is a sharper title than the last two games in the franchise. With tons of quests, various ways to customize your characters, and an improved combat system, fans of the original Puzzle Quest are going to have their hands full with this sequel.

Follows up last year's comeback player of the year with control tweaks and makes its formidable franchise mode even better. [Apr 2006, p.97]

It's amazing what a little touch up in graphics and sound can do for a tower defense gameplay-based title. And Hidden Path Entertainment's Defense Grid: The Awakening is a prime example of that sudden transformation of taking a unoriginal. well-known style of video game and turning it into a masterpiece for your PC.

Age of Zombies doesn't play that differently from any other shooter on the App Store, but it has enough personality to easily warrant my recommendation.

All told, this is a great debut for the Prince of Persia series on the PS3 and Xbox 360. [Jan 2009, p.74]

Touches gloves and starts swinging with terrific controls and deep, exciting gameplay. It's too bad that the lackluster graphics and sounds prevent it from becoming a truly memorable champion.

Ghost Master's truly bloodcurdling flaw is its lack of customization options: There are no character creator, level editor, or multiplayer options.

A refreshing surprise—it puts back the “miracle” into the Miracle Boy’s reputation by being a top-notch freestylin’ cyclist for the PS2.

In the realm of today’s high-powered next-gen role-players, BOFII is an excellent time-killer—not to mention one of the better entries in the series.

Deceptively engaging.

The best part of Island Thunder is its price tag... Though it may seem to be a simple add-on, Island Thunder has enough features to make it feel like a brand-new game.

The single-player NFL Challenge mode can destroy your enjoyment in short order, but as long as you have real-life friends to join you, NFL Street is a blast—and a much-needed shot in the arm for the genre.

More than just a port of a PlayStation 2 fighting game—it’s a port of a very good PlayStation 2 fighting game... The GameCube version suffers a bit on a few fronts, most notably its controls and graphics.

If you can get past its gimmicky aspect, Donkey Kong Jungle Beat becomes an interesting spin on the side-scrolling hop-n-bop action genre that ultimately relies on endurance as much as reflexes. [Apr 2005, p.82]

Though maddening at times, it's easy to see Another World's rigidly scripted cinematic nature as a precursor to modern linear blockbusters like Uncharted, making it a fascinating, albeit antiquated curio.

Ultimate Marvel vs Capcom 3 is still a spectacle, but compared to the first time around, the hype feels far more subdued.

Nintendo's got the party magic when it comes to four-player multiplayer good-times, too. No matter how you might manhandle the A.I., playing with your pals is the best way to enjoy this tennis match.

The further you get from the starting levels, the more you'll have to deal with smudged content. The voice acting will mysteriously disappear, along with the quests, the single-player story, and the engaging instances.

But if you're looking for a good, simple RPG that you can pick up and play without chaining yourself down, you should definitely choose Dragon Quest IV this fall. [Oct 2008, p.91]

The only problem lies in the hefty system requirements that are required to produce all this eye candy; if you don't have the rig necessary to run it at a high enough setting, you miss out on the true beauty of the game.

About the only shortcoming Ace Combat 6 possesses is an intimidating visage, especially if you're using the Ace Edge flight stick. This is definitely a hardcore game, not one intended for casual play given its attention to detail, simulation-style controls, and general difficulty.

It's disappointing really because Bully offers incredibly entertaining gameplay that's worthwhile, but the improvements that should have come with the jump to the more powerful Xbox 360 hardware just don't pan out.

Gone is the non-linear design of each mission. Each objective is now clearly marked one after another, eliminating secondary (optional) objectives and different ways of approaching a target, which were key and exciting components in the original Ghost Recon game.

Takes as many steps back as it does forward, and ends up teetering precariously over the brink of being a disappointment.

Take the time to learn the nuances and you will be suitably rewarded. [Jan 2010, p.81]

Brace yourself and buckle your seatbelts kids, it's going to be a bumpy -- and destructive -- ride through the sky.

But when you step back and consider the entire package, you start to appreciate Dark Athena for what it truly is. Instead, look at Dark Athena as a flawed yet enjoyable way to extend the thrill ride that is Escape from Butcher Bay.

The same frustrating, albeit unique controls remain intact—resulting in the same inconsistent shot making that was felt last year.

Ghost Recon’s in-depth gameplay closely resembles that of the previous Tom Clancy games—but it also has its faults, such as some weak A.I. pathfinding.

Although it's far from perfect, Star Ocean: The Second Story is a remarkably expansive game with a complex, immersive plot and highly compelling characters.

The pixelated graphics won’t immediately rock your world, but the more you play the more you’ll marvel at the smooth animation, cleverly designed levels, and awesome infrared effects.

The mixture of play styles may rub some people the wrong way, but most will find the vast scope of this venture too alluring to resist.

Though it has its glitches, Gitaroo Man Lives is a great gaming experience that will keep you rocking from sunrise to sunset.

These flaws are mere minor annoyances. Anomaly: Warzone Earth gives you a flexibility I've never encountered with tower-defense games, allowing you to determine the strategy you think is best suited for the situation at hand. The game is a lot of fun--and I hope this isn't the last we've seen of Anomaly from 11 bit studios.

At its core, this is the Assassin's Creed we've grown to love in recent years, and it still serves as a pretty good time sink -- plus, it's a necessary bridge to next year's already-announced follow-up. But obligation shouldn't be the primary reason to play something, and sadly, that's too often the case in this humdrum campaign.

Age of Empires: The Age of Kings beautifully leverages the DS's unique strength--its interactive touchscreen--to create a truly worthwhile handheld strategy game. With any luck, we're looking at the dawn of a golden age in DS strategy games.

A visual masterpiece.

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]

With its deep Clan system and 400 missions worth of downright addictive quests, I can't help but recommend it. [July 2008, p.82]

This year's version of Tiger Woods PGA Tour is as sweet as a 350 yard tee shot down the middle of the fairway. It will challenge experienced players while still providing enough teaching and lessons to acclimate even the newest of players.

Has just enough new features and improvements to make it the best Hot Shots game yet. [Nov 2004, p.140]

At its core, this is the Assassin's Creed we've grown to love in recent years, and it still serves as a pretty good time sink -- plus, it's a necessary bridge to next year's already-announced follow-up. But obligation shouldn't be the primary reason to play something, and sadly, that's too often the case in this humdrum campaign.

But it's now clear that Dungeon Siege II is now undeniably one of the action RPG stars. It makes many, many welcome tweaks and improvements--far to many to list here--and is sure to thrill any action RPG fan.

The game is essentially a port of a decade old fighter and it can be hard as hell, but all the horsepower the PSP brings to the table can't keep this game from being at times mind-numbing frustrating when it comes to control. Put simply, the D-pad the PSP has just isn't cut out to be used for a fighting game, where fast fingers and accurate directional control is paramount.

Abe Lincoln Must Die pulls Sam & Max right back up from the slight stumble that was episode three and prepares them for what will hopefully be two more great installments before the end of Season One.

For every good aspect of the game there seems to be a bad one, and when you balance that out across the board (or ski), it just adds up to a game that tries to evolve a winning formula but falls prey to its own ambition.

Not only the proverbial sequel-better-than-its-original, but it’s also deep, challenging, and intelligent on a level that action games usually don’t reach.

As original in gameplay as it is in visual design.

Whether you’re a hyperactive kid, an inebriated adult, or just someone who doesn’t have any hangups about looking a little goofy to have a good time, the EyeToy will make you smile for the camera.

The beautiful backgrounds and fluid animation of the original are all spot-on.

The best Spider-Man game yet made. From the rich combat system to the simple, inexhaustible joys of swinging through the city, Spider-Man 2 delivers the experience web-slinger fans have been begging for since time immortal.

1-Bit Ninja's difficulty will likely cause plenty of blue streaks, but they're worth the catharsis of a job well done.

The one-player game is a lot of fun, if perhaps a little on the short side, but at least there are plenty of side missions and things to do after you've completed the main game to help round out its lasting appeal. But I do think it's the multiplayer mode where most people will get their kicks.

Still, it's a fun title and one worth getting for the little Star Wars fanatic in your life. [Dec 2007, p.127]

What this FPS game lacks in antagonistic aliens and demons from hell, it more than makes up with good old-fashioned gunplay and an unbeatable theatric presentation.

While it would be nice if the old school version were included with this new download, “Space Invaders Extreme” is exactly what gamers want in an arcade title – its hard to put down, inexpensive, and a blast to play.

But even without that crucial feature, Wii Sports Resort still feels like an accomplishment, not only because it offers a fun and accessible experience built around the MotionPlus attachment, but because it may very well renew optimism in those jaded by the lackluster motion controls seen over the last couple years.

An impressive and well thought-out offering that delivers a truly original and memorable strategic experience, even if interface and pacing issues help keep it from feeling quite as monumental as its inventive abilities.

Homecourt has the flashy moves of a superstar but it needs to work on its fundamentals. Maybe then it'll elevate its game to true legend status.

What it comes down to is this: if you have any interest at all in the strategy/RPG genre, Disgaea 4 is bound to please. It's less of a revolution than a (much-needed) evolution for the series, and it's still got a few dents in its armor, but there's just so much being offered here that you're bound to find something -- if not several things -- to explore and enjoy. And as a final note: if you see foreign minister Vanetha in your Dark Assembly, please bribe her nicely, okay?

After 12 years, Duke still kicks ass. He may not be as good looking as he used to be but he continues to prove that the adage - its not the graphics that make a game great, its the gameplay - will always be true.

The greatest feature in Baten Kaitos may be the fact that you can fight and travel as freely as you like.

But for a reasonably priced downloadable game where you're driving/flying around in tiny vehicles, Renegade Ops certainly doesn't feel small. In fact, it's genuinely one of the most entertaining and polished action titles I've played on a digital platform.

Offers true harmony between arcade and simulation football games, but with more attitude than both of them put together. Oh, and it’s fun, too.

FFVI will engage the player with its story and character development, but it will also test the same player's patience with its horrendously slow response during battles. [FFVI review]

Due to the fast-paced action, the controls will leave you with aching hands and thumbs...Of course, this level of intensity means that there’s a good game underway, and you’ll want to keep at it despite the pain.

Visually, the Xbox version smokes its PS2 counterpart, but it won’t blow your doors off.

Soloing is a bit repetitious and slow, but gather some friends - and a whole lot of hardware - and you're in for one of the smartest, weirdest, and most magical four-player adventures you're likely to play. [Mar 2004, p.85]

A fantastic title that suffers graphically on the console, but still retains everything else that made it so special.

While it would be nice to have more available characters, Capcom vs. SNK will keep you busy for a very long time, mastering the nuances of the fighting engine and unlocking the huge amount of hidden features.

Tremendously fun. The subtle nuances and sheer competitiveness still make it the best realistic golf experience out there. There are nagging issues that continue to get overlooked, but whether or not you've been playing the game in years past, Tiger 07 is a must-buy for cyber golfers.

You can't expect to be great at Spirit the first time you pick it up, but it's definitely a unique and well-crafted game that's worth a look.

NCAA Football 10 is like an above average college football recruit: it plays hard, keeps its nose clean and eventually gets drafted in the second round. It doesn't make ESPN's Top 10 Plays segment on a weekly basis nor does it rack up the jersey sales but it works hard in the trenches and is a great locker room presence.

A beautiful and mesmerizing title that warrants a look. It can't top the cream of the current crop of downloadable PSN games like Super Stardust HD, PixelJunk Monsters, and Tekken 5 Dark Resurrection Online, but it certainly holds its weight if you're looking to kill a few hours on a lazy Sunday.

Woozle is a deceptively challenging puzzle game in which your goal is to direct marbles along complex, maze-like tracks. If you're after a laid-back puzzler, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better option than Woozzle.

Once you get the hang of the units (which takes an extra-long time) and the tricky camera, Ground Control II can be relentless, fast, and furious fun.

A fun game with tons of character. The difficulty and control tweaks mean that all that good stuff won't be lost in a flurry of frustration.

If you're looking for a thoughtful, challenging RPG experience, this is a Strange Journey worth taking; those who take issue with the thematic elements, however, might want to go adventuring elsewhere. [March 2010, p.91]

Overly realistic controls are unforgiving, turning tiny slip-ups into disasters.

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

Solid characters, cool environments, tight control, and a funny storyline, Fur Fighters comes highly recommended.

Skate 3 doesn't go as far as I would have liked, but it's still a great addition to the franchise. [July 2010, p.90]

If you value gameplay over graphics, there's no just beating the standard Xbox version of Legend -- it's just much, much smoother than its Xbox 360 counterpart.

Flawed though it may be, the chance to fight as a giant ape is something gamers have dreamed of since the 2D days of "Rampage."