The only thing missing is a simple pro season mode. But things like online play and the inclusion of some classic players (Walter Payton, Howie Long, Ronnie Lott, etc.) more than make up for it. [Mar 2004, p.87]

This is quality gaming that's both fresh and exciting. [May 2004, p.92]

The first American portal version. [Feb 2003, p.97]

A fairly standard shooter dressed as a visual and aural masterpiece. Sadly unappreciated by the vast majority of the gaming world. [Feb 2003, p.93]

It's not always realistic, but the proven mechanics ensure that it's fun...even when bling is no longer in. [June 2004, p.90]

Not nearly as embarrassing as "DDR", Karaoke Revolution is perfect for parties and tribal gatherings. [Dec 2003, p.67]

What really sets it apart from other first-person shooters, though, is the attention to technical and tactical detail, as well as the skill it demands from the player. [Jan 2004, p.78]

Hand-to-hand combat, especially against a large group of thugs, is clunky at best and irritating at worst. [Sept 2004, p.79]

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]

Anything bearing the valuable Lord of the Rings license will sell well. Happily, there's more to this beat 'em up than just the license. [Feb 2003, p.93]

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

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

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

An admirable port. If you already have the Xbox version, you really don't need another one, but PS2 owners should pick it up in a flash...bang.

What on the surface looks like your run-of-the-mill RTS game is actually a sophisticated action-packed balancing act. [Mar 2003, p.71]

The only thing missing is a simple pro season mode. But things like online play and the inclusion of some classic players (Walter Payton, Howie Long, Ronnie Lott, etc.) more than make up for it.

It's a challenging game, but that's Metal Slug for you - everything you liked about the previous games, you'll find here, and that's no small feat on a small platform. [Feb 2005, p.103]

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

Boasts ideal handling and control, near photo-realistic graphics, and digital surround sound. Where the game staggers is in its defiantly single-player focus. [Jan 2005, p.86]

This one is actually a brand new game, with significant changes. [Feb 2003, p.96]

Offers up some solid gameplay, sharp visuals, likable character designs, and a fairly compelling (if somewhat typical) story. Fans of "Advance Wars" will particularly enjoy it. [Dec 2003, p.102]

Tons of tracks, 100 cars, 100 parts, and a dozen cool minigames deliver endless customization options. [Jan 2004, p.86]

Good looking and fun to play, Dead or Alive maes an impressive debut. [Oct 2004, p.122]

Difficult yet engaging. [Feb 2003, p.97]

The third incarnation of the gorgeous two-wheeled racer MotoGP 3 marries high-octane speed with improved control, at long last implementing front and rear brakes. [May 2003, p.66]

The physics engine is dead on: Balls handle as they would on a real table. [Aug 2003, p.80]

Particularly thrilling is the motorcycle chase on the narrow freeway, evoking strong visions of what EA could have done had it been blessed with "The Matrix" license.

If you enter All God's Village, enter with a spare pair of underwear.