The gameplay has just the right balance of challenging puzzles and finger-numbing battles to deliver an exceptional adventure whether you’re royalty or not.

Sticky controls sometimes mar play, and a temperamental camera makes for difficult combat. Sphinx showboats lush, densely populated environments, good texturing, and fantastic character animations.

There’s nothing wrong with Mario Party 5 as it stands, but the next installment sure could use an overhaul to freshen the formula.

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.

A solid simulation of the sport that offers more teams and unique options not available in its main and only competitor on the PS2, "Winning Eleven." Some minor control issues remain and the depth is still not where it needs to be, but it delivers a highly worthwhile experience nonetheless.

The controls for all versions do a masterful job of managing the fierce action. Even in battle so pitched that you literally lose sight of your character amid the multitudinous combatants, you still feel you’re the master of your fate.

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.

If you’re new to the game, go out and get the original instead as it has a fun campaign to follow. For those who just can’t get enough Dynasty Warriors, you’ll probably have a blast from the mix of modes this expansion has to offer.

The orchestral score and voice acting are good, and the detailed graphics are incredibly well animated, but those features and Tolkien’s story aren’t enough to distinguish this game from all the other strategy titles out there.

Must-own material.

It has some slick production values, and Acclaim goes all out on dreamy visuals, gorgeously detailed architecture, a Vikingly heroic score, and juicy sound effects, but skimps on any kind of depth and rewarding gameplay.

A nicely executed adventure worth fighting for, just be prepared to suffer inglorious defeats until you get used to the game cam.

A solid simulation of the sport that offers more teams and unique options not available in its main and only competitor on the PS2, "Winning Eleven." Some minor control issues remain and the depth is still not where it needs to be, but it delivers a highly worthwhile experience nonetheless.

Doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface of the GameCube’s capabilities.

a solid simulation of the sport that offers more teams and unique options not available in its main and only competitor on the PS2, "Winning Eleven." Some minor control issues remain and the depth is still not where it needs to be, but it delivers a highly worthwhile experience nonetheless.

A nicely executed adventure worth fighting for, just be prepared to suffer inglorious defeats until you get used to the game cam.

Compelling gameplay features elevate True Crime beyond mere GTA-clone status, but a cliché-riddled script and control issues keep it from being monstrously cool.

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.

Though the Turtles may have aged almost 20 years, their look is as sharp and clean as when they first jumped out of the sewers. From the crazy animated ninjitsu moves to the colorful levels, the Turtles never looked so good on a small screen.

The updated controls and interfaces enable easy, intuitive access to the game's magic and combat systems. Bethesda has created not just a game but also a benchmark by which future RPGs will be measured.

Packs the power to astonish with its next-level A.I., absorbing mission design, and mesmerizing presentation.

SWAT’s action isn’t of the highest caliber. But with 21 levels, some cool concepts, and great multiplayer support, it’s a fine rental for most and an enjoyable mission for FPS fans.

The actual gameplay of Gladius is innovative, but the execution is just as slow as the story telling.

It can be tedious to baby-sit both characters, but the game otherwise guarantees hours of enjoyment, even if it’s only to jump and flip around.

The actual gameplay of Gladius is innovative, but the execution is just as slow as the story telling. Combat is dished out through turn-based clashes; when an arena is filled with at least a half-dozen pugilists, the action tends to be very, very sluggish as you wait patiently for your next turn.

Has its own quirks - you have to be too precise about lining up your player with the ball at arm’s length, so you’ll often miss swings you know you should've drilled. Spins also don’t have as much effect as they should, and the powered-up shots and serves are more challenging than they should be.

Slick, detailed visuals are marred by inane camera work, and while the creature, explosion, and limb-whacking sound effects are all boffo, developer High Voltage should have jettisoned the dance beats and synthetic guitar strains for something more along the lines of Slayer.

It's also refreshing that, instead of a wilder arcade-like approach, the game portrays the sport more realistically; it’s a bit more work to pull off a dizzying spin or flip, as it would be in real life.