Impressive visuals aside, Maiden Of Black Water is unashamedly last-gen in design. It’s creepy enough to give you sleepless nights and the story’s better than that of previous games, but you’ll have to put up with occasionally clunky controls if you want to enjoy this tale. It’s just about worth it.

Although it would have been nicer to see Nintendo pick one of two directions rather than offer something that perches on the fence between platforming thrills and RPG depth, Sticker Star is nonetheless a beautiful and eventually engrossing adventure, once it hits its stride.

Sure, Chapters might be technically temperamental and occasionally get itself tangled in the threads of the series’ narrative, but it is also intelligent, crafts its world skilfully and has an admirable commitment to themes and design principles that make it stand out. We’re left eager to see where it goes next.

A great addition to any GBA collection...While there may be instances where the lack of a vertically scrolling screen can unfairly get you killed, the quality of the game's other elements is ample compensation for this annoyance. [Nov 2004, p.117]

Smart, sketchy but pacy, Q.U.B.E: Director’s Cut is more than worth the price of admission, regardless of format.

Taken as a purely forward-looking puzzle game (with a well-told story, to boot), Layton provides DS entertainment in a unique fashion. [JPN Import; May 2007, p.112]

Like no JRPG you've seen. [Issue#95, p.120]

A pleasant surprise. It certainly does not offer the same experience that "SSX 3's" genre-leading gameplay does, but because Avalanche is just as good for different reasons, it doesn't necessarily have to. [Christmas 2003, p.94]

The GBA does a great job of keeping up with the arcade version. Graphically it impresses, with tons of sprites and gunfire lighting up the screen (a bonus for non-SP owners) although the sound can be a little squelchy. [Jan 2005, p.100]

It's not revolutionary by any means, nor is it particularly long, but thanks to some clever creative control the game delivers a funny, engrossing and downright weird experience unlike most other platform adventures. [July 2005, p.104]

Given the constraints of the sport, SSX 3 does a great job of keeping the game as open as possible. If nothing else, the SSX series represents something of a benchmark for snowboarding games, a trend that continues with this instalment. No one title of this generation can claim obvious superiority. [Dec 2003, p.102]

It’s the touches like the resulting wounds and bloodstains from each swing of a blade or the limb damage that really keep you playing. Indeed, attention to detail is excellent throughout and Colosseum does a great job of creating and maintaining a consistent game world. [Sept 2005, p.108]

Canyon may well become the definitive version of this smile-inducing stunt racer, but unless you're already a veteran it may be worth waiting a while before taking this sequel for a drive. [Issue#115, p.100]

Legend is the best Tomb Raider game that has yet been made. Despite the game's few grating problems, that's quite an accolade. [May 2006, p.102]

For the price point at which Never Alone is currently offered, we can’t argue it’s amazing value for money. However, we do believe it’s a new experience in gaming, and a stellar proof of concept for what the developer/publisher combo wants to do. If you’re after a biographical and socially relevant gaming experience, invest in Never Alone and you won’t regret it.

Baboon! ticks a whole lot of our boxes. [Issue#159, p.111]

Single-player falls down only by virtue of the fact that repetition of missions is crucial to progress, although with such a clear multiplayer focus, it's no surprise that this is the highlight. [June 2009, p.120]

There is a great game within, that in small ways perfectly shakes up the Quake/Unreal formula. Finding it though means pushing through several barriers to entry. LawBreakers plays great. It just feels like a game its developers don't want anyone, except a select few, to play. This fixation on niche has bred a singular shooter but might just kill the game before it can get started. [Issue#191, p.72]

Heatseeker is one of the more substantial playing experiences currently available on the Wii, and perhaps the first multi-platform release that feels superior rather than compromised. [May 2007, p.120]

Few can deny that these improvements have made Black & White 2 a resounding success. The trouble is that gamers were expecting many of these things four years ago. [Nov 2005, p.112]

Instead of progressing videogame stealth action, it’s a game gone into hiding – cowering behind a shroud of misguided pseudo-innovation and unbelievable difficulty. [Dec 2006, p.106]

Table Tennis really shines as a videogame representation of the long-neglected sport that’s both authentic and extremely fun. [July 2006, p.116]

Taking out several Stormtroopers with one sweeping flash of neon is a gratifying sight, but the fun really starts as more and more Saber-wielding Dark Jedi are introduced into the fray and the scene becomes awash with multiple blades. [Nov 2003, p.116]

Stands as an interesting attempt to broaden the appeal of horror games, even if its innovative successes are counterbalanced by an adherence to old-fashioned adventure sleuthing. [May 2005, p.118]

Imitating a swing with the analogue stick is still as satisfying as ever, and the balance between control and room for error is nigh-on perfect. However, it would have been nice to see a few more changes to keep the experience fresh. [Oct 2003, p.122]

Ultimately this all amounts to - hold on to your trousers, because this'll shock you - a genuinely good Sonic the Hedgehog game. Yes, in 2017. That this exists at all after so many failed attempts is impressive, but the fact that it's really good is a bloody miracle. [Issue#191, p.75]

A good-looking game that offers inoffensive, simple gameplay that's likely to suit the tastes of most gamers. Due to knowing exactly what you're meant to be doing at all times, it loses the complete immersion that games like "Beyond Good & Evil" and a few others in the genre have managed to accomplish, but that doesn't make it any less enjoyable. [Feb 2005, p.110]

If you're buying Kinect anyway then Dance Central should be your first port of call, but its limited lifespan for more grizzled gamers means it shouldn't be a reason alone to splash £130 or more.

An interesting concept executed with a degree of panache. Plus, if you're familiar with even half the characters available, Cross Edge breathes new life into the personalities you long since laid to rest. [Sept 2009, p.110]

The biggest enhancements come in the single-player experience - always the worst part of the previous games. This time, Nintendo has clearly put some thought into it and come up with a story mode that actiually has a point, rather than being a player-vs-computer rehash of Party mode. [Jan 2004, p.113]

It's frantic, satisfying, very challenging and full of the sorts of explosive set-pieces, generous destruction and screen-filling sprites that made the original such an enormous success. [Christmas 2005, p.113]

Ultimately, with the antics of the on-screen characters, zany actions, video playback and favourite tracks, it doesn’t really matter even if Just Dance 2016 is making a very generous interpretation of your moves because there are enough layers of distraction in place to keep you happy.

Some will label it contrived, others experimental. We’d call it flawed but engaging and ultimately entertaining irrespective of that. [Mar 2007, p.104]

When Runner hits its stride, you'll end stages wanting to high-five the dev team and probably yourself as well. [Aug 2010, p.120]

There is a greater sense of physicality present. [Issue#148, p.106]

In the space of just one sequel, Juiced 2: Hot Import Nights has elevated itself to one of the more interesting and fun racers currently on the market. [Nov 2007, p.130]

Beguilingly charming. [Issue#115, p.112]

Despite some skinniness in the core mechanics, this is a strong game with a consistently charming aesthetic and challenging progression-based system: if you’re enduring enough to live through the first week or so, you’ll meet a slew of survivors, and you’ll uncover a glimpse of America that’s still celebrated.

Gorgeous, but sometimes laborious. [Issue#191, p.81]

While it's huge and complex in many of its systems, it still feels as if it is caught in 2014. [Issue#194, p.68]

A stylish and satisfying detective adventure. [Issue#198, p.81]

It still feels so right.. Sketchy music and coconut-sized pixels are a small price to pay for the chance to dabble with one of the finest two-dimensional beat-'em-ups ever made. [Aug 2005, p.107]

Prototype's huge setting and impressive characters-on-screen tally is testament to Radical's engine but it's incredible how hackneyed many of its missions and boss fights are. [Aug 2009, p.124]

While Underground tried to seamlessly mix its diversity, humour and gameplay, it was always obvious when you were being dragged away from the combo system at the heart of the series. Thankfully, THUG2 makes a much better fist of keeping classic Tony Hawk's gameplay at the heart of the tasks. Even when skating as Benjamin Franklin or a shrimp vendor, the focus remains on skateboarding. [Dec 2004, p.102]

While it lasts, it's a brilliantly designed, original and fun experience. It just needs to last a lot longer.

Dream Daddy is a breath of fresh air. [Issue#191, p.82]

As enjoyable and refreshing as Kameo is, we can’t help but feel that it would have been better received long ago on the GameCube, as was originally intended. [Christmas 2005, p.126]

A more solid, playable and visually splendid grappler than this will be hard to come by... If it weren’t for the fact that you can easily clock Story mode and unlock everything in a weekend, we’d have a much easier job recommending Fight For New York. [Nov 2004, p.108]

Level design is a cut above most games of this type, using different brick properties as well as imaginative wall layouts to keep the player problem-solving and the ball in the air. [Sept 2008, p.124]

If muddy textures and a somewhat garish palette are the trade-off for involving track design and vehicular carnage, then it's a compromise we're happy to accept. [Dec 2009, p.102]

So another tremendously well-made blockbuster from the LEGO factory, once again proving that there is no room for second-rate movie tie-ins any more and that no-one understands how to get the most out of classic movie franchises like Traveller’s Tales. But like the dinosaurs, it’s only so much time before they’ll have to evolve.

Ultimately, this offers little over the first Desert Storm other than a new campaign and several engine tweaks but given the game's setting, there's precious little more you could ask of it. [Oct 2003, p.126]

If you're looking for a football simulation then grab a copy of PES 2018. If you want a dramatic series of events with every match you play then get FIFA 18. [Issue#194, p.75]

One of the most complete lightgun experiences you’ll see on a home console, with a wealth of extras and a lot of replay value. Slightly better controls would have made this a near classic. [Jan 2008, p.126]

The graphics are surprisingly impressive, movement is smooth and, despite the occasional feeling of repetition, the action is constantly fast-paced and compelling. [June 2006, p.118]

A cerebral and unusual war game with issues that don’t, in the end, detract from its effectiveness. [Apr 2006, p.122]

Enjoyable, but almost marred by convoluted menus. [Issue#193, p.77]

Highly entertaining, in its own unique way. [Issue#139, p.117]

Let It Die is a bit like – and this is meant as a genuine compliment – a budget PS2 curio. One of those games that is a bit rough around the edges and lacking in triple-A polish, but has an idea that is far more compelling and delivered in such a stylish way. Grasshopper Manufacture doesn’t deal in blockbusters, but this is likely to be another cult hit.

There can be little disputing the quality on show here, although the underlying gimmick and universal approach mean that New Super Mario Bros. 2 can offer neither the mystery and experimentation of earlier games nor the challenge that new pretenders to the platforming crown lay so very, very thick.

It may have its flaws, but at least those mistakes were made in the course of trying to do something new. [Dec 2009, p.100]

Virtua Tennis's motion control satisfies with a trademark pick-up-and-play experience that nevertheless mirrors the sport to an authentic degree. [Sept 2009, p.127]

The combat is very well implemented, taking place all round, over large distances and constantly second-guessing the player as to which direction to turn next. [Aug 2004, p.102]

Its best feature is still its protagonist. [Issue#153, p.112]

The whole thing smacks of laziness - of the 12 missions, we count a total of four completely new ones...the annoying thing is that Contracts is an enjoyable game; that IQ had the cheek to crib from its previous work almost doesn't matter when the result is still worth playing. [June 2004, p.98]

Meta-gamers might be frustrated as the tiresome task of getting from one section to the next becomes increasingly irritating, but the puzzles will have you thinking and the art style will have you hooked. Sometimes, that’s all it needs.

You'll certainly be hard pressed to find anything else like it out there. [Issue#148, p.112]

If it weren't for a few titles like "City Of Heroes" taking the genre in interesting new directions, we'd find it far easier to recommend this more traditional life-consuming abyss of a game.

If "God Of War" never happened, Spartan: Total Warrior would have been a great example of a simple, gratuitous action game. As it is, it's merely a good one. [Nov 2005, p.124]

it’s too wordy for its own good, and the clash of styles is sometimes jarring and somewhat nonsensical, but this blend of two classics maintains enough quality from each to be well worth investigating. a thoroughly enjoyable and engaging crossover.

Possibly the most technically realised rally experience available on console. [Issue#102, p.115]

A stellar multi-player and strong Campaign mode mark a return to form for Sony’s favourite son. [June 2006, p.124]

The jump to a new console hasn't done all that much for visuals in general, but the game is undoubtedly neater and smoother than it once was. [Issue#148, p.115]

While purists might complain about his increasingly frequent appearances in non-platform games, most of us can simply enjoy what is a tremendous piece of handheld software. [Nov 2006, p.106]

This is a high-quality platformer packed with variety - if you don't mind a pushover, you'll find plenty to like. [Issue#148, p.119]

The stark landscape, self-serious characters and po-faced story are completely at odds with the sense of mischievous fun the destruction naturally evokes...If Volition is interested in crafting an instant classic, putting this destruction in Saints Row 3 would be an excellent place to start. [July 2009, p.110]

Shooters may have reached their peak according to Army Of Two’s lead designer, but as a co-op experience, Army Of Two succeeds only in adding to the pack – rather than leading it. [Apr 2008, p.108]

From Dust is hypnotic, captivating and, most importantly, fun. It's a sandbox that rewards creativity and playfulness as much as it punishes it and, while it suffers some irritating issues, it's a very welcome experience.

It wears its heart on its sleeve and has a decent stab at striking a fine balance between the sublime and the ridiculous. [Issue#153, p.123]

Despite being known for its ability to bring us quality RPGs such as "Kingdom Hearts," Square Enix has done itself pretty proud with this move into the adventuring genre, and the RPG influences that surface throughout the title just add to the quality. We definitely suggest you give this a go. [May 2005, p.114]

It needs work in terms of visuals and could do with some more maps and game types, but World Of Tanks: Xbox 360 Edition ticks all the boxes that it needs to. Add in the free-to-play aspect and you’re left with a game that’s more than worth a spin – just don’t expect to use your brain too much.

Atmospheric, technically strong and really rather enjoyable to play, Call Of Juarez: Bound In Blood is every bit the sequel it needed to be. [Aug 2009, p.112]

There are moments in Resident Evil 6 that peak as high as the very best games in Resident Evil history, but there are so many more that settle for mediocrity or much, much worse. With a nip and tuck this could have been something very special indeed. Instead, it's a great little Leon campaign with a hell of a lot of content that you should consider a worthwhile but extremely flawed bonus.

A cerebral and unusual war game with issues that don't, in the end, detract from its effectiveness. [Apr 2006, p.122]

The previous games were marred by simplistic, repetitive gameplay. Lego Batman isn’t entirely free from these flaws, but puzzles are more numerous, complicated and diverse. [Nov 2008, p.115]

Most will have already seen what this particular version of Mega Man has to offer, however, there’s still certainly enough here to warrant a purchase if you’re craving some quality platform action for your little Sony friend. [Apr 2006, p.116]

Narrowly surpasses its predecessor. [Issue#148, p.126]

Solid (if somewhat easy later on) combat mechanics also make up for shortcomings elsewhere, with the stack system presenting some interesting tactical possibilities.

The narrative endgame of The Talos Principle is a total cop-out – it eschews complex philosophical querying in favour of trite observations on the nature of gaming. Still, it’s more sophisticated than most titles on Steam, and the puzzles have been refined by a team of true craftsmen.

Most gamers will complete Nightshade within a weekend - it's a fine example of style over substance. But this game is all about its scoring system and it offers plenty of incentives to ensure that you'll be going back for just one more go. [Mar 2004, p.110]

An enjoyable adventure, but it’s really starting to show signs of fatigue.

A solid puzzle game with some cleverly designed extras. [Aug 2008, p.117]

Overshadowed by the games that inspired it. [Issue#160, p.99]

The animation and art direction of the entire Short Peace box is superb. [Issue#148, p.128]

The game suffers from a few technical hiccups in frame rates and broken quests, but there’s a wealth of content here waiting to be unleashed by your own imagination.

Put up with its farcical levels of misogyny and you'll find an approachable, satisfying fighting game that feels smoother and looks sharper than it ever has before. [Issue#160, p.100]

There's a steep learning curve in place after the tutorials. [Issue#148, p.129]

Some impressive innovation towards the second half of the game lifts Axiom Verge considerably, but if you're after a genuine and whole-hearted twist on the tried-and-tested formula, it will disappoint. [Issue#160, p.102]