Offers a more simplified, newbie-friendly version of traditional Tribes gameplay. [Jan 2005, p.92]

Maximum Impact is trapped in a weird place. It got most of its soul from the series' 2D legacy, but elements of the latest in 3D fighters have been sprinkled liberally on it. [Dec 2004, p.133]

The design is impeccable and completely distinctive. Though the gameplay can be conventional, there's not chance you've ever played a game quite like Nocturne. You should. It's a stunning, mature fantasy. [Nov 2004, p.114]

A good concept with fun trappings, but it doesn't quite have enough going on under teh surface. [Nov 2004, p.108]

In Premiership terms: FIFA is Manchester United - polished and predictable. "Winning Eleven" plays like Chelsea - maverick with panache and flair. Which would you rather play? [Dec 2004, p.119]

Although combination attacks and special strikes are possible, battles come straight from the "Warriors" playbook - and fights, no matter how lopsided, are all too easily won by locating an enemy leader and killing him or her. [Dec 2004, p.127]

Merely an average action game featuring an overly sexy protagonist and an entertaining combat engine held back by myriad game-breaking glitches. [Jan 2005, p.106]

It's difficult to describe any element of the game as anything but simply "good." [Jan 2005, p.106]

There's solid ground on which to build a game, but compared to what Insomniac is doing, much work remains. [Dec 2004, p.126]

Though the nostalgia of playing wears off quickly, for only 20 bucks, you really can't go wrong. [Dec 2004, p.104]

The mix of 2D characters on a 3D plane not only looks appealing, the gameplay that's designed around the concept (Mario's transformation skills in particular) is a creative fusion of art and design. [Nov 2004, p.105]

It's this constant barrage of humor, both cliched and well written, that saves Larry from flunking out. [Dec 2004, p.122]

Even if players know a song front to back, the pace is awkward and destroys a sense of rhythm. [Dec 2004, p.104]

Without the cel-shaded aesthetic to bolster what's an otherwise mediocre shooter, even those seeking simply to relive their glory days of after-school anime and protoculture will find this sorely disappointing.

And again, boss encounters are both overwhelming and plodding. [Nov 2004, p.127]

The controls are just dandy, and there's plenty of shooting to be done, but no single aspect of this Invasion makes the game particularly notable - it looks plain, sounds plain, and pretty much plays plain, too. [Nov 2004, p.112]

THUG2 may not match "THUG's" charm and novelty, but it's still one of the most addictive and satisfying experiences out there. [Dec 2004, p.116]

A monumental bore. [Nov 2004, p.130]

Deception is excellent, and its online play and hundreds of unlockable secrets give it more longevity than most fighters. [Dec 2004, p.112]

THUG2 may not match THUG's charm and novelty, but it's still one of the most addictive and satisfying experiences out there.

THUG2 may not match THUG's charm and novelty, but it's still one of the most addictive and satisfying experiences out there.

It's a close one, but ESPN bows to "Live 2005" on the final shot. [Dec 2004, p.118]

Despite all it's going for it, Evil Genius just isn't fun. The gameplay is dull, and there is nothing left after you get beyond the initial novelty. [Nov 2004, p.140]

There's plenty to unlock, and training games break up the pace a bit, but the motivation to return to the ring isn't there. [Dec 2004, p.119]

The addition of first-person-shooter-style controls is what takes Nexus to the next step. The series instantly goes from being niche to nice, now that turning your Core is simpler for the uninitiated. [Nov 2004, p.112]

A last-second shot that splashes down for victory. [Dec 2004, p.118]

If you found "RalliSport 2" addictive, think of Colin 2005 as the same game with the difficulty switched over to "realistic." [Jan 2005, p.100]

The gameplay is what will make or break Covenant for you; to be honest, it's nothing new. But the game is so chock-full of clever little intertwined ideas that you won't mind. [Nov 2004, p.126]

The novelty wears off and Konga becomes repetitive, especially without other bongo owners to play against or with. [Nov 2004, p.130]

The multiplayer could use a few more game options, like allowing players to actually play the campaign rather than only skirmishes. Still, for anyone who wants strategic depth with their RTS game, there's no better title out there. [Dec 2004, p.131]

Despite the lack of dazzling graphics or a riveting single-player game, Kings of War is a refreshingly entertaining game that gives players a good break from RTS conventions.

With the new modes and new tunes, Extreme feels more robust than other versions of DDR. It's more accessible without neglecting its core audience - fancy footwork to be sure. [Nov 2004, p.118]

With more true role-playing elements to balance out the sheer kill-and-collect MO of tis debut, this franchise, ripe with much potential, could grow serious legs. [Nov 2004, p.138]

If we could just get a third "Legends" game using this engine, then series fans would really have something to cheer about. [Nov 2004, p.127]

The love that went into it shines through, and it's enough to have True Believers shouting "Excelsior!" for weeks to come. [Dec 2004, p.117]

The game has an amazing energy and great joy. Its unfettered creativity is astounding, and this is where Katamari truly excels. [Nov 2004, p.110]

Promathia should offer worthier excursions than this. [Jan 2005, p.108]

PC players have a set of expectations that couldn't be met without more solid A.I. That, plus unfulfilling multiplayer, takes away any chances for a Medal of Honor here. [Jan 2005, p.122]

The experience could have been even edgier if the enemy A.I. was fully up to snuff. [Nov 2004, p.136]

If you're looking for something original, BWT fits the bill. [Dec 2004, p.129]

The biggest problem is pacing. Simply put, Headhunter: Redemption is monotonous and dull. [Nov 2004, p.124]

It's Star Wars with a proven and well-executed game concept. And if that's not enough to persuade you, you're able to murder Ewoks. Enjoy.

Various artificially induced frustrations hold the game back from its true potential. Still, it's nearly there, and for those with strong jaws, it's an otherwise exceptional experience. The next game should be unstoppable, but it better well feature Eric B. and Rakim. [Nov 2004, p.122]

DOW isn't a perfect translation of the Warhammer game, nor is it a vastly innovative RTS, but it is a good-looking and fun RTS that should entertain any fan of the genre. [Dec 2004, p.130]

NHL 2005's major flaw is the sheer amount of contact that takes place during a game. It's got more checks than a bank! More hits than the Top 40! [Oct 2004, p.107]

The addition of legendary club swingers such as Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer to the roster adds credibility to balance out the fantasy golfers. It's also refreshing to see so many new courses. [Nov 2004, p.116]

Offers racing thrills that compete with those in full-sized games. [Dec 2004, p.125]

It's "Star Wars" with a proven and well-executed game concept. And if that's not enough to persuade you, you're able to murder Ewoks. Enjoy. [Nov 2004, p.120]

The next game should be unstoppable, but it better well feature Eric B. and Rakim.

Literally as simple, short, and brutal as a bullet to the head. [Nov 2004, p.116]

So much more involving, more expansive, and just plain more, more that that you might need to buy a new PC so you can play it alongside Mommy. [Dec 2004, p.120]

Two-player action can get a bit confusing, though, and the game will appeal to a niche audience only. But for those with the fever for quarter-crunching thrills, consider the eagle landed. [Oct 2004, p.94]

You'll be on the edge after the first instances of enemy ambushes, but near the end of the game, that effect will wear off, and the initial tension will eventually turn into boredom and frustration with each new encounter. [Oct 2004, p.116]

The graphics are beautiful, the characters original, the story entertaining, and the control dead-on. [Nov 2004, p.128]

As a relentless slashfest backed by a rich story, lush visuals, and moments of snap-the-controller-in-half difficulty, Demon Stone is at least fun while it lasts. [Dec 2004, p.129]

While it is, technically, a rail shooter, it's quite a rail you're riding. [Dec 2004, p.110]

Its levels come in short, overly difficult bursts that routinely send you hurtling back to the title screen with whatever heath you had when you hit the last checkpoint, be it a full bar or a mere sliver. This basically railroads whatever fun is to be had in the RPG-like character development system. [Nov 2004, p.134]

It's almost like a bawdy, medieval "Animal Crossing" for adults. But you lack true control; moreover, things don't change unless you change them, making the world feel shallow. Though you usually have the freedom to do as you will, important characters are often completely exempt from your meddling (or even exist only in cut-scenes).

It's not exactly cutting edge. What it is, though, is incredibly sold fun. [Oct 2004, p.110]

The game doesn't handle nearly as well as games like "Mario Kart: Super Circuit." This is especially frustrating when paired with a track that blends a bit too well into the surrounding environment, and there are quite a few of those tracks. [Apr 2004, p.90]

On its own, it's a good, solid action game with a compelling story, nonstop action, and a deep, dark jungle atmosphere that's easy to get lost in. [Nov 2004, p.121]

Clumsy combat and woeful repetition will try your patience. [Oct 2004, p.118]

The only missteps are a super class of cars that are almost too fast for the courses, an abundance of loading screens, and a mostly terrible soundtrack--the latter two problems solved by the Xbox version. [Oct 2004, p.111]

If you like wasting small bits of time here and there with your GBA - and especially if you're new to the series - this is still the best thing you get get on the portable. [Nov 2004, p.134]

If you like wasting small bits of time here and there with your GBA - and especially if you're new to the series - this is still the best thing you get get on the portable. [Nov 2004, p.134]

The stellar visuals and spot-on sound design keep these from being too terribly dull, but clumsy combat and woeful repetition will try your patience.

The only missteps are a super class of cars that are almost too fast for the courses, an abundance of loading screens, and a mostly terrible soundtrack-the latter two problems solved by the Xbox version.

The whole game becomes rather monotonous, despite attempts at adding replay value. [Nov 2004, p.124]

Just don't expect anything new. [Oct 2004, p.102]

Though it features a few original ideas, its execution is lackluster and uninspired compated to its competition. [Oct 2004, p.112]

To be perfectly clear: This is the best 2D fighting game ever made...a 2D fighter fan's dream come true. [Sept 2004, p.95]

A thinking person's game with just enough button-mashing to keep things snappy. [Oct 2004, p.110]

A truly attractive game that sometimes even manages to better its competition, but the gameplay is just too riddled with holes for comfort. [Sept 2004, p.91]

Ambitiously niched and infinitely flexible, giving players a battle system of unparalleled depth that's as innovative as it is daunting - even for crusty veterans of the genre. [Oct 2004, p.112]

As a trivia contest, The Guy Game is merely average. As social commentary, we weep for the future.

With the improved online play, expansion of the popular lightning challenges, and inclusion of Chase for the Cup, NASCAR 2005 has enough horsepower to last you all year. [Oct 2004, p.102]

Except for the emphasis on female persuasion, there is little to differentiate SRS from the plenty of other street racers either available now or coming soon.

True icenicks will revel in the new dream mode and party mode. [Oct 2004, p.106]

Each of the 19 planes is drawn in astounding detail, but unfortunately, for all the modeled damage and intricate cockpits, the game physics are a little too arcadey. [Dec 2004, p.133]

A delicate blend of "You Don't Know Jack," "Girls Gone Wild," and repeatedly smashing your head against a concrete wall. [Oct 2004, p.116]

Character upgrades, including a useless superpunch for Olimar and Louie, highlight Pikmin 2's greatest flaw: it relies too heavily on the collection of stuff. [Oct 2004, p.104]

While the monster creation is excellent, the minigames feel more rudimentary. [Sept 2004, p.93]

Simply put, you need to play this to understand. [Oct 2004, p.94]

Bomb-collection out the wazoo, a grim but bland story line, and everything old packaged as if it were new. [June 2003, p.75]

What little real challenge there is exists solely because of the horrendous camera controls. [Oct 2004, p.98]

It kind of works, if only as a surprisingly challenging, exceptionally beautiful time capsule of Tezuka's greatest hits. [Sept 2004, p.82]

The real selling point is Ghosthunter's presentation, and the graphics, script, music, and acting are all first-rate. [Sept 2004, p.96]

It's faced paced, full of creative shot making, and chock-full of fun unlockables - there's no denying the addictive power. [Oct 2004, p.98]

It still doesn't own the grahics category, but Madden controls better with that same great pace it's known to have. [Sept 2004, p.86]

Unfortunately, like its prequel, Black Arrow's single-player campaign is still a collection of trial-and-error missions that require you to memorize the location of every hostage and enemy while perfecting your run through linear levels. [Sept 2004, p.93]

Enemies and weapons are well balanced, progression through the Mars base is even and steady, and the locations are varied enough to keep things interesting. [Oct 2004, p.100]

It arrives on Xbox as both a has-been and simultaneously a never-ran. [Oct 2004, p.120]

Gamers who are interested in a horror title without needing to scrounge for ammunition and health packs should give Echo Night: Beyond a go, but players who are used to fighting for their survival will find the game dull and repetitive. [Sept 2004, p.94]

Even if the image of the precious Hamtaro in an apple suit makes you cringe, there's a solid game behind the cuteness. [Sept 2004, p.94]

The combat is fantastic, but...everything outside of combat is pretty bland. [Aug 2004, p.100]

This is one of the slickest-looking games on the PS2. [Sept 2004, p.88]

While "Madden's" a better game in the way that Peyton Manning is better than Steve McNair (marginally), it'll be fun to see if ESPN can beat the daunting spread with its budget-priced equalizer. [Sept 2004, p.87]

The game ends just when the story starts to get interesting, and hardcore RPG fans should be able to beat it over a single weekend of dedicated play. [Oct 2004, p.114]