Some elements seem to finally be "complete" for the Live series, but for everything the game does right, four things are in obvious need of more work. On paper Live 09 sounds great; in execution it's the same story as usual.

The same game I've played over and over again, just in Shanghai. Technically sound, but too generic to be considered elite among shooters.

There are some memorable action scenes in Airborne, along with some great visuals and a top-notch presentation. But be careful, because it's over before you know it.

While the addition of JRPG ideas and mechanics diversifies player experience slightly, Shiren the Wanderer is still a roguelike at heart, which it honors exceedingly well, perhaps at the expense of other gameplay elements.

A pretty fun, if not, simple game. If you don't have coordination, you might be frustrated with the gameplay. However, the easy mode makes up for this. A good all around game for exercise and pretending that you're John Travolta.

TimeShift doesn't do a lot of innovative things, but it's still fun.

It combines most aspects of the older titles and upgrades them into the world of high def. While the original "wow" factor is no longer there, it's still worth it.

Homecoming doesn't recapture the essence of the Konami-developed games. The action-oriented approach leaves players with an awkward camera and less impressive plot, but the game is still enjoyable in its own way.

Prinny's a simple throwback title for gamers who simply like to have fun with their games. Good gameplay, graphics, and sound, along with a decent challenge make this one worth picking up.

If you can survive the frustrating moments, you'll find a game unlike any other which can offer a tremendous experience completely its own.

Depths of Peril is the epitome of a good indie game that isn't quite great. It brings some new and innovative stuff to the table, yet does it in a way that many people won't recognize until a big-budget title takes its ideas.

For a PSP fighter, it's good. If you've played Ultimate Ninja 2, you'll know what you're getting into. Expect that, but slightly watered down in terms of what's available.

The Maw is a simple, yet enjoyable game, with charm to spare.

I've always been a fan of bringing the arcade experience home; it's how our gaming industry started. Ghost Squad does a great job of letting you play the classic arcade shooter and even throws in a few extras no one saw coming.

Undeniably niche and uncompromising, The Dark Spire will earn the ire of the many players who aren't interested in the classic gameplay found within, but put smiles on the faces of those who are.

If you're looking for monster RPG different than Pokemon this is your game. Just don't expect it to be as good as Pokemon, despite the cooler looking evolved monsters.

Since it doesn't do much different, it remains a fairly hard-sell at 800 Microsoft Points. If you're a fan of dual joystick shooters, you've probably already purchased it.

TimeShift doesn't do a lot of innovative things, but it's still fun.

Ace Combat 6: Fires of Liberation is a fun game to waste away an afternoon, but a hard sell for anyone who hasn't been a fan of the series beforehand. The combat is fun, but the rest needs some work.

If you don’t know what rugby is or think of it as a poor-man’s football, this game will teach you what it’s all about, and entertain you. It’s a fast-paced sports game, and that translates well in any language.

If you're looking for monster RPG different than Pokemon this is your game. Just don't expect it to be as good as Pokemon, despite the cooler looking evolved monsters.

MLB 2K8 is a game for true fans--it's like being there at the ballpark. There are lots of details that only baseball fans will appreciate. It won't appeal to general gamers or those who don't really like baseball though.

If you love games like Cooking Mama, Order Up! is a must-get. If you don't, give it a try, because it may surprise you.

Persona 3 is a fairly unique game, in that it combines stale and tried elements to make them fresh. The presentation is good, and the environments are crisp. This is definitely a game only for the true RPG faithful.

Brutal Legend has one of the best stories, and some of the best writing, this generation. Unfortunately, the gameplay turns experiencing it into a chore, rather than a joy.

For the serious strategist, you couldn't ask for more. The game interface detracts from the experiene, though. People who aren't into WW2 or slow play should pass on this one.

If Dark Sector were a student, he'd be expelled for plagiarism. Thankfully, the Glaive more than makes up for the rampant copying of mechanics and ideas.

The same game I've played over and over again, just in Shanghai. Technically sound, but too generic to be considered elite among shooters.