At its best, Star Control: Origins urges you to poke and prod into every corner of its intimidatingly vast galaxy, searching out ancient secrets and pun-filled absurdities. At its worst, it drags you through mediocre arcade sequences and generic grind. Genre mashups are far more common today than they were in 1992, but striking the right balance between adventure, role-playing and arcade action remains as tricky as ever.

An average shooter that doesn't offer up more than a handful of satisfying thrills throughout its single-player and multiplayer modes. You'll certainly play worse FPS games in your lifetime, but you'll also certainly play better ones, too.

Making the journey to Shadow of the Tomb Raider's peaks is certainly an attractive goal, but like the challenging terrain Lara needs to traverse, the path there is getting rougher and more unpredictable.

Think of it as a ride through a really amazing haunted house: you don't have a ton of control and sometimes the ride breaks down for a moment or two, but it's basically guaranteed to leave you scared out of your mind.

A dizzying variety of new and classic armaments and parts, allowing for unprecedented amounts of Armored Core customization.

While Space Colony offers a great deal of breadth, and a surprising amount of depth, it never really capitalizes on either of these strengths to become an incredibly compelling or incredibly enjoyable game.

Fans of "Tropico" may wish that Frog City had developed a more direct descendant of the original--the mechanics are basically the same, but Tropico 2 is a very different game.

Although the game is so fundamentally similar to "Patrician II" that those who own the previous game have little reason to pick it up at full-price, the feature additions refine the open-ended gameplay by removing some of the micromanagement and by providing more significant milestones to achieve later in the game.

A solid collection of games that are still just as playable as they were when they were first released many years ago.

The game's shallow goal design keeps it from achieving the same level of addictiveness as games like "Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3" and "Aggressive Inline."

Sure, it's not a budget game like its predecessors, but Serious Sam for the Xbox is easily worth its full retail price and will last you longer than most other action games.

Tak 3 certainly has some adorable moments, but they're overshadowed by a frustrating design and sloppy gameplay mechanics.

This is still a solid game of hockey, but it isn't the most realistic or best-playing NHL title out there, and as such, it shouldn't be your first choice for one.

The older console versions of Madden 08 offer a few control upgrades and a couple of bizarre new modes, but otherwise, this might as well be last year's game.

While there are better games available for the console--most notably, Capcom's Resident Evil: Code Veronica--the budget price of this game is sure to please just about any gamer willing to take the plunge into this well-saturated genre.

The visual improvements and additional characters layered atop the Devil May Cry 4 Special Edition can't conceal its bloated structure. This is, without a doubt, the best this stylish action romp has looked and felt, but just because you can gussy up an old game, doesn't always mean that you should.

The gameplay has been sharpened to create an experience that expertly balances technicality and quick, accessible fun. Add to that a first-rate presentation and some solid solo and multiplayer offerings, and you've got a package that any tennis fan would be foolish to pass up.

It's got new goalie controls and marginally improved graphics, but taken as a whole, NHL 2K6 just isn't as appealing on the 360 as it was on other platforms.

Nanostray 2 is a dyed-in-the-wool shoot-'em-up that offers great action in a shiny, proficient package.

Avadon: The Black Fortress offers up some good old-fashioned role-playing, as long as you can handle the dated production values and a few design quirks.

Even though it's repetitive and occasionally frustrating, Space Run Galaxy is a great way to, as Deep Purple puts it, “go space truckin’ round the stars.” Tactical depth, a wide range of choices when it comes to customizing your ships, and a liberal dose of frantic action during cargo runs--not to mention a good sense of humor and attractively cartoony visuals--combines to deliver an experience that isn't easy to master, but one that's worth the extra effort.

Regardless of how you classify The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit--whether it's a standalone adventure, a demo, or a prologue--it's a beautiful game, and one that leaves you all the more excited about Life is Strange 2.

The game does have some noticeable problems, though C&C fans may find themselves having too much fun to care.

The sleek, superficial action of After Burner Climax is thrilling in short bursts but not deep enough to last.

It's not the Panzer General that you might remember, but this card-based XBLA game is impressively deep and addictive.

An amusing adventure that makes a powerful case for more creativity with level design, setting, and pacing in co-op shooters, without thoroughly capitalizing on all of its own best ideas. Traps and their extensive use within many of the levels are a joy, and the underpinning gunplay is strong enough to warrant a sturdy recommendation, but it all comes to a head well before it should.

Hoard is a simple but addictive multiplayer strategy experience that's unfortunately singed by a few design choices.

"Surreal" is actually a perfect word to describe MultiVersus, a game that brings together iconic characters and makes them fight. These characters are as authentic as they come, feeling as if they've been ripped straight from their source material thanks to excellent voice work. The team-based mechanics are truly beyond anything else offered in a platform fighter, while the classic 1v1 format also impresses. The roster offers plenty of variety, though unlocking all of the characters without having to dip into the real-world wallet will definitely be a chore. We don't know how much of its power MultiVersus has tapped into yet--the open beta will soon give way to Season 1--but as it stands now the game has smashed any and all expectations. Even if MultiVersus doesn't unseat the king, it is more than ready to rule its own little corner of the kingdom.

The games run accurately and the package has some nice extras, but the graphics are a little on the blurry side.

While there are some rough edges, the result is mostly a nice little role-playing jaunt into the world of Tolkien.

Mega Man X Collection follows the same basic formula as Capcom's excellent first Mega Man compilation, but it just doesn't have quite as much to offer.

There's fun to be had in Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit, but you have to invest in it. The more work you put into making your go-kart track craftwork unique, the more enjoyment you'll get out of racing, with or without some frustration and repetition. Mario Kart Live isn't going to have the long-term appeal of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, but with some imagination and ingenuity, you can make it something special.

Despite its short length and easy puzzles, this episodic adventure still captivates with strong storytelling and compelling characters.

Forces of Corruption is a great addition to the Empire at War saga thanks to an interesting new faction that offers up a different way to conquer the galaxy.

This sequel to Nintendo's console wargame wages a much more successful campaign on free time.

This demon-controlling adventure lets you do more fun things with your evil minions, but Overlord II hasn't shaken all of the issues that held back the first game.

It does right by the classic Worms gameplay, and it's probably the best-looking Worms game ever; but a shortness of features makes it feel a little bare-bones, not to mention a little overpriced.

Though its visual style is soft and often flowery, the pace of the action is maddening and intense.

Question: What is a fun trivia game with cool controllers that's fun to play in groups? Answer: Buzz! The Mega Quiz.

Black Mirror III is sufficiently spooky but is burdened with a dreary pace and frustrating puzzles.

Sowing the seeds of a flourishing planet and a prosperous populace is a wonderfully welcome challenge in Reus.

Minecraft Story Mode's third episode is the best so far, weaving action and story in a tight, focused package.

There's still a lot to love about NHL 18, even if the core on-ice experience has only seen minor tweaks.

Sparklite's loop can be rewarding, but not when it's extended beyond its means.

Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita's Rewind feels light and disposable. It's a largely enjoyable brawler throwback that plays well and accurately captures the spirit of the original old-school Power Rangers. The vehicle segments can be frustrating, but the larger issue with MMPR is that it's ephemeral. Like watching an episode of Power Rangers on a lazy afternoon, you'll have a little campy fun and then immediately forget about it.

It speaks volumes that even the multiplayer limitations don't entirely dampen my enthusiasm for Aces. The Tetris Effect is in full swing here; days after the credits rolled, I still crave the satisfying thwack from a Power Shot, mentally replay matches and imagine how I might do things differently given a bit more focus and know-how. Mario Tennis Aces does what this series has done best, and for the most part, improves what it's rarely gotten right prior.

The single-player campaign doesn't get cooking until the last two levels, but those two levels combined with solid multiplayer make it worth enlisting in the Airborne.

Tales of the Abyss is still an entertaining role-playing game, but poor 3D makes this handheld version slightly disappointing.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the versions of NHL 07 not made for the next generation of consoles offer little in the way of new content.

Dragon's Dogma takes chances, and it's that riskiness that makes this role-playing game so unique among its peers.

It's got some flaws and it's not very long or replayable--you'll probably finish it in 12 to 15 hours, without much incentive to go back to the beginning--but it's fun while it lasts.

Sticker Star falls into a rut at times and may even drive you crazy, but in the end, Paper Mario's unwaveringly cheerful attitude, and fond memories of the game's many great moments, will be what stays with you.

It's got some problems and takes some time to get into, but it should otherwise appeal to players who've enjoyed previous hack-and-slash action games, or those who like the idea of them.

Penny Arcade Episode 2 has the same humor and frantic combat of the previous game, but its devotion to the absurd will alienate some people.

The technology behind Sega Rally Revo is undeniably impressive and the driving is a good bit of arcade fun, but the game's staying power is highly questionable.

The prince's high-flying adventure is marred by camera issues and weak combat, but the excellent platforming is still loads of fun.

Though I had my fun with the original game 10 years ago and had moved on, I still found coming back to the core loop and flow of Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game to be a satisfying romp. It's not often to see games that get pulled from circulation get a second chance, yet the Complete Edition more than makes the case that this cult favorite beat-'em-up has earned another shot. While much has changed over the last decade when it comes to geek-appeal and retro gaming appeal, what's here is still a solid beat-'em-up that's gotten mostly better with age.

No, Disney isn't for everyone, but unless you're laden with a heart of stone, it's hard not to be taken in by Kingdom Hearts 3D's many charms.

This is still a solid game of hockey, but it isn't the most realistic or best-playing NHL title out there, and as such, it shouldn't be your first choice for one.

Above all, Port Royale 2 is a remarkable accomplishment, largely because it can make economic simulations captivating even to those who may typically dislike the idea of this game genre.

A solid arcade-style boxing game, and like most arcade games, it wears thin fairly quickly.

It isn't the deepest game in the world, and some may find the gameplay repetitive over time, but the gameplay works well and the game's presentation is passable, too. If you're interested in some light puzzle-solving mixed with even lighter platforming, Sabre Wulf fits the bill.

The game's primary goal is to distill roughly 38 hours of TV episodes into 15 or 20 hours of hands-on gameplay, and it succeeds at doing so.

Between the various multiplayer options and the great single-player mode, Forsaken 64 comes out a real winner. Save for Rare's Goldeneye 007, it easily defeats the other first-person shooters currently available for the N64.

Glitches drag it down, but Clear Sky provides plenty of haunting ambience and challenging gameplay.

Beholder is based on a strong concept, and it has moments that land well, but it’s also held back by repetition and an unexciting script.

As it stands, EA Sports UFC 3 is a tense, exciting, and dynamic recreation of the stand and bang aspect of mixed martial arts. There's a fluidity to the way it moves, and a satisfying feel and unpredictability to the way fights can unfold that demands your engagement. The grappling still needs plenty of work, and one would hope this is something EA Canada addresses in the next iteration; yet these shortcomings become easier to overlook because of the accomplishment of its redefined striking. When it comes to the art of combat, few sports titles do it better.

Bit.Trip Saga is an engrossing compilation of six inventive games bound together by vibrant visuals and dynamic soundtracks.

Flipping Death's logic is sometimes too ridiculous for its own good, and frustrating platforming sections add some tarnish. But the game’s silly puzzles, self-aware humor, and crazy characters still make a wonderful experience filled with plenty of chuckles, which help to leave you satisfied as the credits roll.

NBA Live 09's gameplay has again seen some improvement, but there are still a few rough edges.

When Satellite Reign is on and all the parts decide they want to work together, it is a blast. Infiltrating a base without setting off any alarms and stealing new guns and money from under the enemy's nose is tense and satisfying, and you have to be willing to take risks to succeed. I just wish you didn't have to slog through the uninviting early hours and the game's regularly busted AI to find those thrills.

NCAA Basketball 10 closely mimics the real sport, but a number of small glitches and a lack of modes limit the long-term appeal.

The challenging mix of real-time strategy base management and tower-defense strategy found in this slick-looking indie shooter packs serious heat.

Beautiful things are possible in the new world and the new ways to play that Telltale has laid out in Done Running. But something ugly and horrifying is likely to happen first, and it is going to be captivating to watch.

The umpteenth Mortal Kombat game bombards you with characters and modes but does little to bring the underlying one-on-one fighting action to the next level.

It’s easy to get lost in Hohokum’s enchanting scenes, but it’s just as easy to come crashing back down to Earth when you lose your way.

There is a game here for someone willing to lower their standards enough, but trust me when I say there are hundreds of better RPGs for you to spend your time on. You do not need to waste it searching for a few nuggets buried here.

Even though the wingman mechanics and canyon races don't quite pan out, it's still a stylish and enjoyable street racer.

Resident Evil: Revelations plays a lot like the best games in the series, but lacks the scariness and intensity that made those games special.

There is little reason to play this disappointing prologue to Heavy Rain.

NCAA Basketball 10 closely mimics the real sport, but a number of small glitches and a lack of modes limit the fun.

In another hard-to-put-down game from PopCap, casual puzzles meet card games and role-playing games.

Killing Floor 2's strongest asset is in its simple yet effective combat--Tripwire could substitute the Zeds for robots or Nazis and still have a solid shooter on its hands.

Baten Kaitos Origins' complex card-battle system and punishing foes weigh the game down, but it's a worthy adventure for role-playing fans who relish a challenge.

If the heavy focus on trial and error doesn't rattle you, Stuntman: Ignition can be some explosive fun.

Tomb Raider Underworld will satisfy fans of Lara's previous adventures, but it does little to address previous games' problems.

Ties That Bind makes few changes to the formula, stretches a thin story to somewhere near the breaking point, and delivers a bloody, curse-filled action game that might still please fans of the first game, though it's more likely that you'll feel like you played the same game last year.

NCAA Football 07 doesn't have the bells and whistles of the console game; instead, it just plays a solid game of collegiate pigskin.

The sheer number of playable games and unlockable items and the slick production values make it a great value for any gamer with an interest in the roots of console gaming as we know it.

Does an outstanding job in simulating the trials and tribulations of running a pro football club, and it manages to put a friendly face on all of the number crunching, to boot.

Ultimate Ninja capably captures the spirit of Naruto, delivering a stylish fighting experience that's both easy to pick up and easy on the eyes.

Dubious claims of exclusive content aside, this version of Red Alert 3 is all good, rambunctious fun.

The only thing scary about this light-gun game is the dreadful shaky camera.

While it may have been aimed at a younger audience, the game mechanics aren't necessarily simple enough for the kids to grasp easily and subsequently enjoy fully.

Doesn't blow the doors off "Rayman 2," but it does further refine the formula, is completely worthy of the Rayman name, and is also the best platformer on the Xbox thus far.

Absolver has a few problems, then, yet they're not impactful enough to take away from its unique strengths. There's a significant challenge involved in learning Absolver's combat intricacies, but it's the kind of struggle that rarely frustrates. Defeat is part and parcel of the experience, but your demise always teaches you something new that you can take with you into the next battle--and Absolver's deep, nuanced combat always finds ways of enticing you back for one more fight.

Anchored by a wonderful cast of characters, the very well-crafted sci-fi story in Dreamfall will leave you anxiously wanting more.

After the credits roll on the main mission and a handful of side activities unlock, the best part of Ground Zeroes is just getting started. With a dearth of secrets to find, and new challenges to master, chasing the endgame will keep you entertained for hours on end.