It’s quite short and the plot is almost nonexistent, but in terms of pure action, Desperate Escape often outshines its own parent.

This game doesn’t really bring anything new to the series, but it’s still a really fun racer, especially with a lot of friends. The tracks are nice, the music is rockin’, and the graphics show what the PS2 can do when it’s being utilized at peak performance.

Fact is, I lost a lot of sleep due to Armored Princess, and gleefully played until the wee hours of the morning so despite its familiarity, it's impossible to not recommend it.

I’ve always been fond of GTA for the story, as ludicrous as it may be, because it closely resembles all the great combat and intrigue of a summer blockbuster. What’s different about this is that, while full of gun, porn and explosions, there’s a complex and mature story beneath it all.

Half-Life 2: Episode One might not introduce any major new weapons or stunning plot twists, but the further insight it gives into the universe and characters who dwell within is unquestionably worth the experience – if only to see the enigmatic "G-Man" get well and truly pissed.

Even with a couple of minor demerits that tend to fade into the background when you're playing a multiplayer game with friends, Risk: Factions is a great addition to the Xbox Live Arcade library.

What’s most impressive is the game’s physics engine.

Graphics are very good, and sounds are even better. Control is very easy once you get the hang of it, and the game gives you a great tutorial to start things off.

As Pokemon games go, it's definitely the most polished version yet and the new additions all add up to make the overall experience even more enjoyable.

Even if you don't like the Disney themes that are in the game, Disney Magic really is about decent single and multiplayer gameplay, and less about Winnie The Pooh or Beauty & The Best. If you loved the original, you'll love Disney Magic.

FIFA 12 isn't perfect; the franchise still has some work to do in the AI department and the new physics model, which is a significant leap forward, needs its kinks worked out. However, this is the future of the series and you can see how it's taking shape. Despite its shortcomings it's absolutely worth the upgrade if you are coming in from FIFA 11.

All told it’s a compelling package that makes NHL 10 an outstanding upgrade over NHL 09 and it’s hard to ask for much more than that from a yearly sports release.

The control of the Hulk is a love/hate relationship.

Gameplay is definitely the most fun and/or frustrating I’ve had with Madden in sometime. When everything works, it is an awesome experience. On the other hand, when you are trying to think what motion you have to do with the Wii mote to hurdle, and you do the wrong move, it can be frustrating.

Grab your sense of humor and your plastic axe and give Lego Rock Band a try.

This direct sequel isn't an improvement in every single way, but it's a huge step forward that corrects many of the most glaring mistakes the fan base took issue with. What of Lightning and her gorgeous Valkyrie-inspired costume? You'll have to play to find out, and I recommend that you do.

A worthy successor to the Phoenix Wright series, even if the first outing seems a little too eager to hold on to the characters from its predecessor.

What you will find though, is a very engaging and flexible method of combat unlike anything you're playing right now. I know I was doubtful when I first heard of the game, but if you're looking for something that lights a new fire under the RPGs of old, put your doubts aside and give Battle Slots a try.

Nancy Drew: Warnings at Waverly Academy is a challenging, quality adventure game.

The new Colonization walks the fine line between mod, expansion and remake.

There is definitely value to be had in Midway’s Ultimate Mortal Kombat for the Nintendo DS. While it doesn’t bring anything new to the table, the tried and true gameplay works very nicely on the handheld and is a great pick up and play game for those times when you’re waiting for the bus to pick you up or have 15 to 30 minutes to kill.

If you want a deep strategy game, this is certainly not what you want to play. Spore is more diversion than obsession.

The game isn't going to bowl you over with its presentation or provide a casual games revolution, but it will give you plenty of fun games to goof around with, and possibly an excuse to get take-out for dinner.

It is an easy game to hop into and play, so people of all ages can join in.

Rush for Berlin has some of the best sound effects in any wargame to date.

Overall, Section 8: Prejudice is quite the surprise. This is a lot of game for 1200 MS Points. TimeGate is promising that it plans to release further DLC on an "aggressive" schedule, but in the meantime get some friends together, hop online, and start blasting.

Even with its repetitiveness and awkward camera angles, Devil May Cry 4 provides a solid addition to the series and even towards the end, with its descent into a puddle of annoyance, the game features some exceptional gameplay and cinematics.

A pretty impressive strategy builder and while it doesn't surpass Glory of the Roman Empire's ease of use or CivCity: Rome's good looks, it does offer the most robust city building components of the three.