The main reason for a DS is to able to play games when out and about. Solitaire, Crosswords and Sudoku are the perfect type of games to play while sitting in forced idleness. I plan on taking this game with me when I visit the family over Christmas. Travel Games for Dummies compares well to other like offerings, and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys word and puzzle games.

I wanted to like this game, but it just wouldn't let me. First it was not diverse enough. Then it started repeating questions prematurely. Then it crashed and displayed a C++ error. Ouch. Good for a few laughs if your friends are as fun as mine, but that's about it.

LBP has managed to do what few other games have – it breaks demographic barriers easily. LittleBigPlanet is a robust game that is huge in concept, with endless replayability and a real sense of joy.

Visually the game won’t win any awards simply because of the battle graphics. Yet I found Neverland Card Battles to be an engaging game that sucked me in with its intriguing gameplay.

Telltale Games keeps the series strong with Baddest of the Bands — it’s a rockin’ adventure that is bound to keep fans of both Strong Bad and point-and-click games happy.

This game is right on target for preschoolers. The repetitiveness is exactly what they like. The levels are fun and have lots of action.

This game is right on target for preschoolers. The repetitiveness is exactly what they like. The levels are fun and have lots of action.

Guitar Hero: World Tour is a great step for the music game genre, offering some excellent new features and tons of songs. While there are a few stumbles along the way, this is a title that fans will want to check out.

From the Roland-modeled drum heads to the Line 6 effects, GHWT shines and elevates the musical genre of video gaming.

Guitar Hero: World Tour has a few kinks to work out, just as the first Rock Band did last year. But it's still a worthy contender of Harmonix's new offspring and is also worthy of being added to your game collection.

The concept is a very good one and the instruments are terrific, but might be problematic for families that want to play all four parts but only have one or two Wii-motes. The issue with the font used on a standard television is also a problem.

A resounding experience. It’s a charming and stunning game that should occupy about 20 hours of a gamer’s time with up to 50 hours of side-quests, odd jobs, and real-estate purchasing available.

It rarely feels repetitive, is often inspiring and immersive, and takes the Spyro franchise along an interesing path. I'm somewhat biased because of the nostalgic feelings I get from the Spyro franchise, but I will say I only stopped playing this game a few times from start to finish. I simply didn't want to stop playing. That should tell you something.

The Legend of Spyro: Dawn of the Dragon may be a kid’s game but there isn’t much here for kids to enjoy. They’ll be amused by the story, visuals and music but will be turned off by the gameplay’s many frustrations.

This game is just not much fun. Spyro Dawn of the Dragon could have been a great game, but the game as a whole isn’t an engaging experience on the Wii. There are worthy qualities present, but they don’t succeed in raising this game above mediocrity. It’s hard to recommend this game to anyone except a die-hard Spyro fan.

Fun, shallow gameplay with cool 3D stages, cheap enemies and a fair amount of repetition.

Order of Ecclesia proves that the Castlevania formula is still as fun now as it was ten years ago, and the new gameplay mechanics keep things fresh and interesting. It’s a 2D action masterpiece, and absolute required playing for any DS owner.

Naruto: Clash of Ninja Revolution 2 is a great game that will give hours of enjoyment to anyone who is looking for a fighting game or likes the Naruto series.

This is a game that melds story and action, philosophy and insanity, gives pause for introspection while urging you along a designed course. It is the high-bar in the field, on one hand, but on the other, it creates its own genre.

Spider-man: Web of Shadows is a great super hero game for the Xbox 360, and one of the best Spider-man games to date. Players looking for a new game to quench their super hero fix will not be disappointed.

Good story, solid action, wonderful graphical elements and great combat all make up for a game that is entertaining. Spider-man fans should enjoy this one.

Web of Shadows keeps the Spider-man gaming legacy going but with some bumps and bruises. Depending on your tastes the bruises might be more of a compound fracture.

Web of Shadows isn't as immersive as some of the 3D Spider-Man titles, and its repetitive combat and level structure could turn off some players in the long-term. But it's a solid rental, no question, and should definitely be played by fans of the GBA version of Spider-Man 3.

Fans of the early Spider-Man games will certainly get a kick out of Web of Shadows and, thanks to a number of interesting features; it’s one of the better PSP games featuring the Web-slinger. Still, there are some issues that do hold this game back from being a truly amazing superhero game but what is here is still fun if you’re looking for solid portable Spider-Man game.

More of the same conceptually, but the highly polished gameplay makes it a joyous, must-play Spider-Man sequel.

Repetitive, short, and dirt simple, Bolt won’t likely be very fun for anyone.

Far Cry 2 is a great open-world game, giving FPS fans a great sense of freedom and tons of content to play through.

Far Cry 2 is a deep and involving first-person shooter that propels the series forward to new and engaging heights. While it completely dismisses all the elements introduced in the original, this game has a lot more going for it and won’t fail to keep you hooked down to the last bullet.

Star Ocean: First Departure for the PSP is a classic role-playing game favorite and seeing it with a new splash of fresh paint makes this a great version to own even if you managed to play the game so long ago. For the majority of RPG fans that didn’t, however, playing this old-school classic is highly recommended.

Eternal Sonata is a good RPG, not great, but good and worth the play.

A good game to get for your child who is Transformer crazy; normally these licensed games turn out to be nothing more then garbage but here is a rare treat.

The age appeal is very young and thus a bit limited. The game gives the impression that teens might be interested, with the High School Musical songs, but the appeal was below the interest level of a 14-year old teen girl. Still, the production values are solid and younger singers may enjoy this game.

What's Cooking? could have been the next Cooking Mama. But instead of going for video-game supremacy, it took a different route and became an interactive cookbook. If that's what people want from this game, it might just work.

A decent array of games, but some linear elements that can rob the creativity and fun. The idea is to stretch the mind, not pigeonhole it into doing things one way. Still the game will work on most PCs and laptops and provide a few challenges.

While Backyard doesn’t have anything to offer hardcore football fans, the game should peak the interests of its target market in kids.

A decent entry to the series and a nice change of pace, but far too short-lived and easy.

If you’re into customizable racing games, this one is for you. It’s hard to go wrong with the amount of options and car tweaking possible in this game. If you’re more into arcade racers, "Burnout Paradise" is still the king of the road. MCLA is a competent racer, however, and while flawed, offers an awesome driving experience.

Solid visuals, decent golf mechanics and a large assortment of prizes to collect will keep some gamers busy. The game just needs more courses and an expanded single-player mode to really make gamers come back for more.

Deliciously satisfying and utterly stylish, Midnight Club: L.A. Remix is a solid racing PSP racing game and another great entry in the Midnight Club series. Yes, the hardware limitations hold it back a little but there are enough features present to make this one hell of a hot ride.

An excellent new addition to the splinter group of action games centered around horror. I suspect they will make a sequel and I suspect it too will spawn a franchise. Dead Space gets it right when it comes to the scares.

Nintendo may have had the best intentions with Wii Music. Their aim to create software anyone can pick up and play is shared by most publishers within the game industry. But there are limits to how simple a game can be before it stops being fun.

As a first or second game for a six-year-old, Slop Bucket Games might be a golden stocking stuffer. But there isn't enough to this mini-game collection to make it a worthy gift for the average kid gamer.

A generic, motion-based music game that doesn't come close to resembling the act of playing a real instrument.

Rock University Presents: The Naked Brothers Band – The Video Game isn’t going to win any awards this winter, but it will win over fans of the show and a lot of the tweens who have no idea who AC/DC are or don’t understand the lyrics of Metallica.

A button-masher for gamers under 12. It won't rock anyone's world, but if you know a kid who loves these Nicktoons characters and enjoys simple, battle-filled games, Globs of Doom is one of SpongeBob's better adventures.

Globs of Doom could have been that extraordinary kid’s title and SpongeBob SquarePants game but it just falls short in almost every way. It’s also not a very fun game despite the variety of characters and co-op gameplay. If your young gamer loves all of these characters I highly recommend a rental instead.

I was hoping that the game would be a bit more of an experience, but as it is, it is barely passable as a hunting sim and only because there is a multiplayer mode would I say this ... die-hard fans of the series may want to pick it up because it's only $19.99 and it's online.

It's totally weird, but I had to factor in that my boys actually play this game. That gives the overall score a little boost.

It doesn't get much better than when four people all come together and score a five star on a really rocking song (like Spoonman). This is gaming bliss.

While there are a few missing tracks, Guitar Hero: Aerosmith provides a good setlist that fans of the band will enjoy. However, the PC version runs into the same type of problems as its predecessor did, and ultimately is tough to recommend to anyone without the highest end PC.

Kids will really enjoy this game, and adults, as well. A great choice for a family game that everyone can play without worrying about inappropriate content. Probably best played as a cooperative effort between older and younger family members and friends.

A significant improvement over the first, Naruto: Path of the Ninja 2 is one of the best original (non-port) RPGs released for the DS platform. Naruto fans will definitely be engrossed by the story and anime-inspired scenarios, but this is also a quality role-playing game that RPG fans will want to check out.

If these games are your cup of tea, Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader: Make the Grade is a good choice for families with children of different ages, because everyone can play in the multi-player modes. This is nice for families looking for PC games that can teach and entertain at the same time.

Poorly conceived and quite dull in nearly every way, Golden Axe: Beast Rider is one of those missed opportunities that could have brought the series to a new generation of gamers. Instead it takes a linear route that makes this a game even Golden Axe fans will certainly want to avoid.

Technically flawed in almost every way, SOCOM: Confrontation is one of those games that would have made for an amazing online experience if it weren’t for its problems. The potential for greatness is clearly visible when the game does run smoothly but these moments are far too rare to recommend this one to anyone.

Saints Row 2 has more than its share of technical problems throughout that hurt the experience, but when the over-the-top nature of the gameplay is firing on all cylinders, then it’s a blast.

Rising above its flaws, Saint’s Row 2 is an addictively over-the-top sequel that proves that bigger is definitely better. With more side missions, deeper customization features, more vehicles and bigger environments, its easy to overlook the glaring flaws that do pop up on the PS3 version. In other words, a bus ride to Stillwater is definitely in order.

Dokapon Kingdom is a cute, hilarious, addicting game with a multiplayer experience that can't be matched. It's not going to appeal to every gamer, but I can honestly rank my time with it among the most fun I've ever had with my Wii.

Not for everyone. There may be players out there who will think this game was made for them, but as a fan of RPGs and select party games, it's hard to tell who those players might be.

Dead Space is a fairly linear affair that will take most gamers a little over ten hours to complete. However, it is one hell of a ride.

Dead Space is a top notch action game that will undoubtedly keep you at the edge of your seat. It’s highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a good scare followed by a lot of gunfire.

If you are not obsessive about the Blitz and/or Street series, you probably won't get much out of this game. But those who are obsessive should give it a thorough testing.

Hardcore fans of simulation football should probably stay clear of Blitz: The League II unless they’re looking for a cool storyline. However, anybody else who is even moderately interested in football should take a liking to this Blitz game.

You run around in the game getting this item then talking to that boy; it's been done before, and much better too.

Prey the Stars is a case of all sizzle, no steak; that is, underneath the cute, quirky premise and presentation, it simply doesn’t have gameplay that’s compelling enough to keep you interested.

Aside from some AI problems, FIFA Soccer 09 is a fine representation of the sport, and the new features keep the series fresh and competitive.

This game has some great moments as well as some that are not so great. It is still, though, a first-rate soccer game that dazzles at times. The new features really give the game a boost, but there is still work to do. This is a great game and fun to play with others.

Not enough has changed for gamers to pick up the latest version of FIFA Soccer. It has regressed in the majority of the areas while the next-gen versions have catapulted ahead in quality. Avoid the PS2 version and move onto the 360 or PS3 version.

EA Sports knows what they are doing. They create great sports games on a yearly basis, with just enough differences between years to get fans to buy them. FIFA Soccer 09 follows this method flawlessly, and is truly worth the purchase if you’re a soccer fan.

Guardians of Gross is nothing special.

As far as Tak games are concerned, Tak and the Guardians of Gross for the PS2 is the weakest entry in the series and a flawed platform game even younger gamers will find disappointing. This is really too bad seeing that the game does try to mix up the platform action. It just goes about it in a dated fashion that just doesn’t work for the character.

"Sigh" The game missed so many opportunities, I think the Wii version is the way to go, but only if you are a die-hard fan.

An interesting new take on the Tak franchise, Mojo Mistake should entertain newcomers as well as the existing fan base.

This is a game that will make you hold your breath, and curse at your monitor (I have since apologized to my LCD).

It’s not the sort of game that’s to everybody’s tastes, but for the old-school gamer who’s finished Contra 4, Legend of Kage 2 delivers a dose of good old-fashioned platforming action. Don’t worry if you don’t have nostalgia for the original — Kage 2 deserves to be played based on its own merits.

Hell’s Highway is a solid shooter with some great elements, but the AI issues are very problematic, especially for a squad-based shooter.

Fracture is a solid effort that offers a new mechanic to the shooter formula and allows for some exciting new ways to play. Unfortunately, for what it does right in Terrain Deformation, its issues fall with the basics of the genre due to spotty AI and frustrating aiming issues.

Spectrobes: Beyond the Portals is a pretty substantial improvement over its predecessor, offering a great 3D aesthetic, fast-paced combat, an interesting fossil digging mechanic, and fun multiplayer elements.

Though it was not the most challenging game, Mind Over Mutant remained a joy to play. Stepping into the 3D world is definitely a good move for the franchise, and the gameplay translates well.

They may be annoyed by the camera and/or repetitive objectives but will be entertained by what is the best Crash game developed in a long time – and one of the best Mario clones released for Nintendo Wii.

If you enjoyed Crash of the Titans, Crash: Mind Over Mutant is a slightly better game with improvements in critical areas such as controls, gameplay and storyline. Sadly, the camera almost ruins the whole package.

I'm sorry, this game just really disappoints.

NBA 2K9 is hands down the best basketball title this year. Aside from its few technical flaws, you can’t get go wrong with adding NBA 2K9 to your collection.

A solid step up for the franchise, adding a cool new online community element and the great NBA Live 365 element is a pretty revolutionary element not just for the franchise, but for the sports genre as a whole. Unfortunately, there are some shortcomings that hurt the overall experience, like a barebones Be A Pro mode and a few on-court technical issues.

The game flow is much better, the animation is smoother and the overall experience is more enjoyable. Sure, there are some elements that would be nice to have included (like a better Be A Pro mode), but that little bit is countered by the replayability offered by the NBA Live 365 feature and the DNA downloads.

There is a level of frustration that accompanies this game that simply won’t go away no matter how many games you play or in what mode. Sure, the mini-games are fun, but they cannot carry the franchise.

If you have a desire to learn a new language, or even test yourself and see exactly how much you know, then My Spanish Coach can definitely give you a hand.

Really a surprising little title that will more then fill the need to play for your little girl (or boy if he likes fashion) should they like this sort of thing. I was surprised at how well it all came together.

Despite agonizing movements and getting lost a lot, it’s a joy to play — and experience.

Considering that Homecoming’s gameplay is a clone of its predecessors, this isn’t the sequel that every Silent Hill fan will want to own. But you should definitely play through it once, as the old gameplay style is still entertaining (minus the clunky combat elements), the music and sound effects are great, and the new story will keep everyone guessing.

We Cheer isn’t too extravagant in game modes or innovative gameplay, but it’s an excellent diversion for a weekend.

A nice enough teen adventure that doesn’t have any inappropriate content, but one that could have been better. More things to do, more puzzles. The story is interesting, though, and the teen characterization of the Hardy boys is well-done.

RTS fans and newcomers alike can pick it up, play it, and enjoy it. Accessibility is its greatest asset, and while there’s no denying the fun, there is little to call “outstanding,” either.

This game is an average collection of children’s mini-games. There are a few good critical thinking games, and a few fun creative ones, but the rest are mediocre. There are better edutainment games out there to get instead.

For $20, Pipe Mania is a solid game for fans of the classic. The lack of multiplayer is a serious misstep for any DS puzzler.

With increasing difficulty and tons of levels to play through, this title is a great addition to your PSP library, especially if you enjoy puzzle games or have played this classic title before.

Pipe-laying, Flooze-passing gameplay in its weirdest and most addictive form. Expect cloudy skies and storms of frustrations, but if you like unique puzzle games it's worth a try.

Pipe Mania is fun way to spend a few hours solving pipe-laying puzzles. It is a little hard for some casual players, but many will enjoy the challenge. The game looks good, and the levels are all interesting. The different modes of play offer something for everyone. Best for families with multiple potential players.