New school gamers may be turned off by the simple play mechanics, 2D graphics, and intense challenge, but old school fans know this is THE holiday title to buy.

If Test Drive Unlimited were a car, it would probably be a nice, leisurely ride without too many fancy gimmicks- maybe a Scion without the oddly-shaped frame.

It's got everything a good adventure game should have in all the right places: great graphics, a compelling storyline, and interesting characters.

If you enjoy zipping Hot Wheels through loops and off your front porch, TrackMania is an essential selection as it's one of the best PC games of 2005.

AI flaws and a couple of other things here and there keep it from being a must-have campaign. Still, fans will definitely want to invest.

Ultramix seems to be the finest home edition yet. Packing new multiplayer features, a dance editor, downloadable goodies from Xbox Live, and the typical great DDR presentation, it simply can not be beat.

The impatient probably won't like it, and the game has very little improvements on Xbox aside from a graphical sheen and some achievements, but if killing is your business, then business is back to being good.

It's also cool that Legends' features over 20 hours of gameplay, but its length is also one of its weaknesses, because over time it just gets boring beating up enemies.

The game supports full online support through Nintendo's WiFi service, although hooking up with friends and staying close to servers can prove a bit hasslesome at times.

Although the graphics could have been smoothed out a little bit, and the game could've used some sort of extra goodies like multiplayer or more playable characters, Thief: Deadly Shadows remains a remarkably deep game, thanks to an excellent story, some great presentation quirks, and quite simply some of the most challenging stealth aspects around.

A thunderous b-ball effort that's almost every bit as good as its NBA brethren. The modes will have you tunneling for hours of enjoyment, and the gameplay is smooth like butta.

Featuring a twisted storyline, a new karma ring system, pretty imagery, and tons of demons to consume, Digital Devil Saga 2 provides a somewhat different experience than the normal RPG fare, even though at its core there's nothing special about the battle system and the way you'll go about things.

If only it had done something to keep the story mode a little longer, then it would truly be perfect.

What it offers is a turn-based RPG with a relatively unique setting, entertaining party customization system, and lots of gameplay hours. What if doesn't offer is anything revolutionary.

Even though, at its core, Metal Arms isn't too different from most other run 'n gun games, the variety of mission types keeps this title from getting old.

Those expecting a representation of complication might be disappointed, and cruise to another game, but everyone else will want to sit back and enjoy the ride.

Even though the missions may sometimes seem like an exercise in patience than of strategic might, this is still a great looking game that is a great experience to play.

If you're a fan of FPS, and you haven't already, give it a try. Just don't start doing pushups in your basement.

The levels are all extremely repetitive, and the graphics are sub par. But if you love Simpson's trivia, this is definitely chalk full of it.

It's a little bit difficult to forgive lackluster multiplayer, especially since the single-player will eventually come to an end, leaving only it to carry the game through.

There's not much to do after the single player adventure's been completed, but rest assured that this is easily one of the console's better games and a landmark achievement in game design.

The action is fast paced, with great weaponry and enemies that will surprise the hell out of you. Multiplayer is even faster than the single-player game, and is amazingly reminiscent of "Quake."

While it's certainly fun to play and one of the few reasons (currently) to even bother with the Nintendo DS, it just doesn't feel all that special.

A viciously intense and wickedly gruesome gang simulator that offers up plenty of thrills.

The gameplay's solid, but the story's disposable, the music's forgettable, and everything is just a bit too easy.

The multiplayer offerings are still on a level beyond belief, and the ability to use fellow bots to lend a hand and upgrade your weapons to nuclear capability is a nice touch. This game is seriously Deadlocked for glory.

The graphics are dated, and the game could've easily been done on the original PlayStation. Still, graphics don't make a game, and Phantom Brave more than makes up for it in gameplay.

Lego Star Wars graphics, sound, and gameplay all bring a classic trilogy to life with utter detail, and the added sense of humor and countless list of secrets and Achievements will keep you playing, even after the Empire's fallen at your feet.

The game definitely oozes cool and the special effects are top notch, and although the combat does become repetitive, the enormous amount of skills you can collect, missions to embark upon, four-player deathmatch via Xbox Live, and Phantom Dust's $19.99 price tag make it a must buy for those of you looking for a different kind of experience that's normally found on the PS2.

If you're a Mega Man fan, Zero 2 shouldn't disappoint, just remember that it's still just as difficult as it ever was.

Looks and plays wonderfully in almost every area, and backs up the action with a huge Skybox to play around with, numerous modes, and Xbox Live support.

There isn't a better racing game to be had on the PC. If you're the fast and furious type, then curb your need for speed with Midnight Club II!

Probably as comprehensive as a chess game can possibly get. The only downside is that even though the menu system is much easier than some of the previous Chessmaster games, it still requires some getting used to.

While AoE III fails to bring a great deal of new content, it does a great job of summing up the last couple years of strategy and combining it with the look and feel of the RTS titles of yesteryear.

It offers multiplayer that's quite addictive, as well as a single player experience that really helps you get better at the game.

While the end-game phase can sometimes feel like it's lasting forever, and some of the more difficult missions may turn away most casual players, this is a very strong game.

It would have been nice to have some remixed tunes in-game, as well as the Mega Man X games, but, regardless, you can't go wrong with this Collection.

A couple of its core additions, namely its "shape stick" and its other glaring issues, bring it up short. That's not to say you won't have fun with it, though. Rivals Mode is more than worth the price of admission.

It's not that the story mode isn't deep or won't provide you with a good time if you've never experienced anything like it, but for those of us who have, it's about as dry as an overcooked piece of chicken.

The presentation is uncanny and takes advantage of the Xbox 360, and the gameplay, complete with spins and smashes galore, captures the nature of ping pong and keeps it simple and fun.

A must have for the PSP, simply for its gameplay and number of items that you can get as you make your way to Golfing God or Goddess.

The thrill of running towards an army and decimating it is enhanced by the insane amount of characters on screen, the impressive graphics, and the sweet metal soundtrack.

Incredible and impressive, perhaps closer to the ideal sequel fans wanted.

While it improves the overall Sims 2 game significantly, the "university" aspect is disappointing and very short-lived.

Despite a rather startling difficulty increase in worlds 5 and 6, the initial six worlds can be cleared in just a few days of regular playing. Thankfully, the game isn't nearly as brief as it initially seems.

A masterpiece that will tickle the spines of even the most courageous survival horror fan.

While this is a great pinball game and the Pokemon characters are an interesting bunch, I wish there was a bit more to differentiate this title from its predecessor.

The most tightened, thrilling, and entertaining MX game to date.

It could've used some touching up with the AI and a couple of tedious puzzles, but no matter. These samurai are back on track to deliver a thrill ride.

It's simply that the fighting aspects of the game remain very similar to "MK: Deadly Alliance," which caters to a casual market. The extra modes of Puzzle Kombat, Chess Kombat, online play, and Konquest certainly add a great deal to the title, but if you didn't like Deadly Alliance, chances are you won't like Deception either.

The new paths you can take, as well as the free wireless adapters that open the door for new ways to communicate and play with others, really make these solid additions, especially for those who missed the Pokemon craze several years ago.

This is the best basketball game in the history of basketball games and you absolutely need to play it.

For as solid as Perfect Dark Zero is, it's not going to wow you with anything innovative. But hey, when you're fragging away at fellow gamers from all around the world, you're not going to care.

The gameplay is stimulating, with all sorts of firepower at your disposal, and the online components will keep you busy for lengthy periods of time. This Lone Wolf has got some fangs.

The pure bottom line is this is the best soccer game currently on the market.

Sure, it's a developer's cut, in a way, but that's like an extra scoop of ice cream on an already-great banana split. Gorge yourself in the glory of Outrun.

The 300+ stages guarantee that you'll be playing for some time, even if some are more taxing than others, and the inclusion of several mini-games in Party Mode guarantees you can get friends in on it.

Those thirsty for a deep simulation game with lots of sweet gameplay and modes that fans will appreciate will want to make it this year's contender.

The only disappointment is the somewhat static AI and unbelievable damage model. But the fast and fun gameplay and the diverse missions make up for any of these shortcomings.

It has stylish gameplay that never really gets old (LATERAL CITY!), graphics that are stunning, sound that fits the mood, and extras aplenty.

While it conceptually doesn't offer anything new (because it is at heart just another Donkey Kong Country title), it's the innovative controls that set it apart from the me-too titles that clog its respective genre, and although it's a little on the easy side, the game has plenty of replay value.

Mario Power Tennis is all about a great game of tennis, with responsive controls, colorful graphics, and a nice, lighthearted style. Fans of the sport shouldn't be surprised if they find one of the best tennis games out there.

The game's interface is wonderfully designed and really lets you lead your own destiny, and the activities and mini-games draw you in to a pirate's life.

Best of all, however, the loading time is significantly improved, almost to the point that there really isn't any.

It's vicious, nutritious, and undeniably delicious, and you absolutely have to buy it immediately. Not only does it look gorgeous splayed across an HDTV, but it plays better than its predecessors.

Packing a new online community, new courses to take on, slight gameplay tweaks, and some surprise faces in the cast, Hot Shots Golf Fore! is definitely worth a go-around.

This is, by far, an incredible improvement from the original game and offers hours of great gameplay.

Street Fighter Alpha 3 Max kind of reminds me of a Ferrari Testarossa with a somewhat sluggish steering wheel. It's jam-packed with features and a damn fine product to look at, but its handling takes a little bit of getting used to.

The addition of Mario and company never hurts either, as they feel more natural than they did in "NBA Street V3." Definitely hit this Tour.

Some of the AI responses seem pretty stupid. Enemies don't appear to be very good at fighting, and will generally stand in place to shoot you. They won't duck behind cover or retreat.

The incredible graphics and storyline combined with destructible objects create a powerful cinematic feel that completely draws the player in.

Loaded with lots of detail, requiring specific tactics in order to train veterans and survive. Phase II mixes things up with three very distinct single player campaigns and the inclusion of day and night missions.

The graphics are outstanding, the teamwork aspects are unique and enjoyable, and even in single player there's fun to be had. On the other hand, using the Game Boy Advance can be a hassle from time to time.

Removing the backstage areas seriously lessons the game's fun factor, and whoever selected the legends needs to be demoted. Still, the game's a blast to play.

The most impressive aspect of GC2 comes from its multiplayer capabilities. The support of drop-in gaming, which allows players to join in while games are already in session, completely changes the multiplayer dynamics around.

My main problem with Tomb Raider: Legend is that Crystal Dynamics made it a wee bit too accessible for the public. The game, while a lot of fun and adjustable for difficulty purposes, is still pretty easy to beat.

The biggest knock against this game is it'll cost you $59.99 and it only offers up seven to nine hours of play.

The game feels pretty good, the presentation is killer, and the abundant extras will probably keep you busy until the next World Cup tournament unfolds.

I cannot understand why the open-ended exploration of the game had to take a powder. Almost everything is chosen from a menu system now, instead of you being able to ride across a wide terrain to your next challenges.

The single player campaigns are a bit short, and we really wished there was a unit carryover and more transferable items to further compliment the RTS/RPG features, but Dragonshard has accomplished quite a bit with what they've done.

Presents a strong sense of immersiveness, using Source - the same graphics engine that powers "Half-Life 2" - and an incredible dynamic conversation engine.

The single player mode gets boring very quickly, the game's frame rate needs improvement, and it's often times difficult to communicate strategies with other players.

Cloning Clyde does lack some of the visual and audio spark that other platformers possess, but it has a style all its own that make it a worthwhile addition to your Xbox Live Arcade library. It's worth the $10.

After getting used to the motion, it became too easy to hit straight/long shots. However, I will say that the short-iron part of the game (especially wedges) left me guessing how to gauge distance. This added a certain difficulty to the game, especially at higher levels when the game didn't kibitz.

Some of the missions can get repetitive and a few minor problems rear their heads, but you'll have too much fun to really notice!

The ambient sounds are great, and the monsters are creepy and well designed, but it isn't long before players figure out the patterned A.I. for each creature and start breezing through the game.

Modern Combat isn't the epitome of brilliant game design. It's too easy to lose focus, and the arcade like gameplay trivializes death. It's worth playing, but not for too long.

The only complaint I have is that the additions that were added here fail to really add anything to the game, just feeling like they're tacked on rather than fully thought-out. Regardless, if you love to sing, RSVP yourself to this Party.

Kirby fans are going to love Kirby & The Amazing Mirror, as it's a typical pink puffball adventure with a neat twist thrown in to keep things interesting.

A pretty tough game, but mystery buffs and Nancy Drew fans will have a blast playing as the famous sleuth.

RRT3 provides a good time with no stress- drop away the menus and just follow a train, meandering through the plains, mountains or forests through day and night, and you'll see what I mean.

It's got a fast paced battle system, an interesting plot, and how the game ends is all up to you. The experience is full of matching-making, engaging battles, and textbook plot development.

The new graphics and 3-D gimmick with the Solid Eye peripheral are nice as well. Metal Gear fans should definitely deal into these cards.

One of the strongest advancements in real-time strategy games to come along in a long time.

As solid an adventure as anything Rare has put out, this game is a must-have if you're looking for a well made "platformer." However, if you're looking for strides in innovation, keep looking. This is just an evolution of the same game we've been playing since "Super Mario 64."

This PS2 monster is insanely difficult and action-packed, full of bizarre monsters, both robotic and organic and you have a plethora of weapons to destroy them with.

Empire at War has everything. The graphics, sound, and overall presentation are each near perfect. Gameplay is fast-paced and fun, with very little repetition, and fans of the setting will be amazed with the attention to details.

Some will enjoy this new method of play, while others will struggle as they go from offensive to defensive moves in frustrating transition.