A thoroughly generic combination of beat-'em-up and platforming gameplay that draws upon only the most rudimentary elements of both genres and does nothing particularly interesting with either of them. Both exceedingly trite and exceedingly brief, Shadow of Aku is pure mediocrity from beginning to end.

Isn't quite the all-encompassing racing simulation that Electronic Arts' "NASCAR 2001" is, but features like the beat the heat mode make the game worthwhile for any NASCAR fan.

Tedious gameplay, poor vehicle handling, and an unfriendly interface are just a few reasons why you should leave this game in the bargain bin.

Not even the allure of shiny robots with guns for arms can liven up this mind-numbingly simplistic and repetitive over-the-shoulder shooter.

Even while you know that the game isn't the least bit realistic, you keep playing just to see what sort of craziness will happen next. But the novelty of curiosities like Fiji spying on Denmark fades in just a few hours, and when it does, you'll reach for the uninstall icon.

Rengoku: Tower of Purgatory all but completely botches the execution, delivering an experience that's clumsy, repetitious, and, thankfully, fairly short-lived.

A sensory overload of explosive, destructive good times that'll cost less than a family outing at the local fast-food joint. The bad news is that the game is so easy to learn and so very arcade-oriented that anyone who appreciates longevity, tactics, and even a modicum of authenticity will inevitably be disappointed.

Not even the allure of shiny robots with guns for arms can liven up this mind-numbingly simplistic and repetitive over-the-shoulder shooter.

While there are certainly worse movie-license games out there, Shrek the Third still feels slapdash and thoughtless, plus its function to entertain is overwhelmed by its function to make money.

Regardless of what you call it, the game attempts to combine zany locales with tried-and-true bowling mechanics, but the game lacks substance and ultimately won't please bowling fans, be they hardcore or casual.

Even if you like the basic premise and action of the game, a number of very serious flaws quickly sap its entertainment value.

A sloppy, loose-handling game of football that can't hold a torch to any of the games it tries to emulate.

Therein lies the main flaw of Star Wars: The New Droid Army--it is so very boring.

Chrome SpecForce manages to avoid going terribly awry, but it also avoids any sort of fun or excitement.

The fatal flaw in Unison is the unforgivably shallow gameplay. All of the other elements are there: a fun cookie-cutter story, cheery characters, and a bouncy, eclectic soundtrack.

Cube's decent premise is diluted by its dull visuals and uninspired puzzles.

Double Helix doesn't do anything that hasn't already been done better in Activision's own Return to Castle Wolfenstein.

Eagle Eye Golf is a lot like "Hot Shots Golf," but not as good.

While there are certainly worse movie-license games out there, Shrek the Third still feels slapdash and thoughtless, plus its function to entertain is overwhelmed by its function to make money.

An over-priced arcade port with some neat ideas that don't translate into satisfying gameplay.

Has a few surprises and some significant flaws. While die-hard strategy fans and extreme fans of the Heroes series on the PC might get a kick out of this one, it's really a rental at best.

There are hints of inspiration throughout, with the game sporting some good-looking visuals, a catchy soundtrack, and a distinct sense of style. But the game's length, uneven gameplay, and atrocious camera negate these virtues.

Attempts to combine zany locales with tried-and-true bowling mechanics, but the game lacks substance and ultimately won't please bowling fans, be they hardcore or casual.

Simply one of the laziest uses of the DS's touch screen technology to date, featuring highly repetitive gameplay that gets old before you've even finished your first race.

Offers several solid interpretations of the classic Russian mindbender, though there's little here that hasn't been seen before.

Just another shallow party game.

This budget action game has its moments, but it's also a very shallow experience with very little depth or replayability.

Shrek the Third is a lazy game that coasts by on the strength of the brand.