Modojo's Scores

  • Games
For 1,738 reviews, this publication has graded:
  • 45% higher than the average critic
  • 11% same as the average critic
  • 44% lower than the average critic
On average, this publication grades 4.9 points lower than other critics. (0-100 point scale)
Average Game review score: 70
Highest review score: 100 Advance Wars: Dual Strike
Lowest review score: 10 NFL Pro 2013
Score distribution:
1738 game reviews
    • 81 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The only downside is the game's short length. You'll probably blow through it in a day or two, depending on your skills.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Had there been more levels, Dark Void Zero would've been unbeatable. That said, you still shouldn't miss it, especially for three dollars.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    If you can get past the game's "buy as you go" set-up and increasing difficulty, you'll find tons of value in Cogs. The presentation is top-notch and the gameplay will grind your gears, and we mean that in a good way.
    • 90 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Expect to see a delightful mix of 3-D characters and hand-drawn and beautiful 2-D backgrounds (the bosses, in particular, are the most impressive), complimented by a quality soundtrack. In all, everything reminds us of an old PSOne RPG.
    • 58 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    Forget Split/Second for the iPhone. It's not worth the time or effort, especially at $6.99. Save up for the big boy version instead. You'll feel better.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    We love Pro Zombie Soccer. The sharp visuals and satisfying gameplay make it our newest guilty pleasure, as well as one of the most imaginative zombie titles in the App Store.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Kudos to everyone involved for making one of the best games on the iPhone. Now please give us more levels ASAP.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Clap Hanz learned from its mistakes and made a tennis game worth checking out, with approachable gameplay, excellent role-playing elements and a slick presentation.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    ModNation Racers on the PSP doesn't compare to the PS3 version, but it's a capable kart racer with hours' worth of content to wade through and online options.
    • 66 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    If you grew tired of time management games, Supermarket Mania won't thrill you, as it's basically the same thing as Diner Dash, but it's a well-made clone that won't take up too much PSP memory at 36MB.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    It's a cool game that'll keep you busy for a little while. Just keep your clothes on.
    • 52 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    Again's graphics look dull and muddy, even for a game that's trying to be on the same level as CSI.
    • 38 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    Only Tecmo could produce a game with bikini-clad hotties on a tropical island and make us loathe it. Dead Or Alive Paradise fails due to its lack of content, unpolished visuals, ear-grating audio and lack of anything beneficial to the Dead Or Alive series.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Despite the learning curve and handful of microgames, WarioWare D.I.Y. is one of Nintendo's most ingenious and satisfying DS efforts, and we strongly recommend playing it on the DSi XL, where those big screens make it easier to draw and view your creations.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    A vast improvement over its predecessor and a must have for anyone that loves to work magic in the kitchen. Both easy and fun, it's a perfect replacement for those dusty old books.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    It's a blast to play, and probably the most fun we've had with video game Russians, outside of performing spinning piledrivers with Zangief.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Even though most of the presentation and general gameplay hasn't changed much from previous Pokemon adventures, both HeartGold and SoulSilver have an adequate amount of content, online and off, to keep you exploring until the next sequel arrives.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Even though most of the presentation and general gameplay hasn't changed much from previous Pokemon adventures, both HeartGold and SoulSilver have an adequate amount of content, online and off, to keep you exploring until the next sequel arrives.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Lunar: Silver Star Harmony is a bold remake of a classic RPG that fans shouldn't miss. Its visuals are among the best we've seen on a portable system in some time, and the audio is so high quality, you'll want to keep your headphones plugged in every minute.
    • 57 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Although Deca Sports DS doesn't come close to being a top sports game, it's a decent pick-up. The multiplayer connectivity and inclusion of particular sports (particularly Sepak Takraw) make this worth at least a rental.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    We can't recommend Dante's Inferno over the cheaper, higher-quality God of War: Chains of Olympus. However, if you seek an alternative to Kratos' adventure or want an action game that doesn't hold back on either its content (lots of nudity and gore) or action, it wouldn't hurt to make a pit stop in hell.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The analog control issues and other small setbacks (Rex Hudler, no Infrastructure play) keep this from winning the pennant, but it's still the go-to batter for on-the-go sports. Take MLB 10: The Show to the ballpark this summer and enjoy.
    • 67 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    It lacks precision controls and Game Sharing, but this shoot-em-up still brings plenty to the table. If you're a fan, don't hesitate.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    But there's certainly nothing wrong with that, especially when it's a quality effort like Sonic & Sega All-Stars Racing. Great for fans, casual players and kids (in other words, everyone), it's a well made, cool and value packed kart racer that's worth the cash.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Despite slight confusion with the command system and occasionally lacking difficulty, the game is a well-oiled military machine that'll entertain you, particularly if you bring a few friends along for the ride.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Kudos to Capcom for refusing to settle on the typical formula with Ace Attorney Investigations: Miles Edgeworth. The gameplay is engaging through all five cases, and the humorous presentation and characters will make you happy to join the legal team once again.
    • 53 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    Ragnarok DS is a huge disappointment, whether you're a casual RPG fan or a tried-and-true follower of the MMORPG series. The gameplay holds little to no interest, the presentation has serious flaws and the multiplayer is nothing more than gimmicky.
    • 62 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    No, Puzzle Chronicles isn't a must-have in the same league as Puzzle Quest, but if you want a different kind of puzzle experience and don't mind putting up with a story similar to Red Sonja, feel free to splurge.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Shattered Memories is the best game in the series in quite a while, and perhaps a precursor for better things to come. Grab a copy, turn out the lights and enjoy.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Glory of Heracles is a good RPG that looks and feels too similar to the competition. That'll please fans that eat this stuff up, but we'll wait for a quest worthy of the gods.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Had there been more levels, Dark Void Zero would've been unbeatable.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    007: Top Agent is a boring and slow-paced strategy game that further soils the Bond video game legacy. Don't purchase it, not even for ninety-nine cents.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks is an excellent addition to Nintendo's celebrated franchise and a great way to close 2009.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    Despite its good looks, MX Vs. ATV Reflex doesn't hold up on the PSP. The controls fail to deliver, and the lack of working trick and jump systems will leave you grounded, both on the track and in spirit.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    Sorry, THQ, we know you were trying to create a fun portable racer, but MX Vs. ATV Reflex for the DS doesn't measure up to the console version. The slippery controls, questionable collision and unbearable sound make this a game we'd love to forget.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Namco has done great things with Tekken 6 on the PSP. It's enjoyable both alone and with friends, it looks and sounds terrific and has the one thing most portable fighting games lack, and that's enjoyable gameplay.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    There's no clunkiness like there was in Altair's Chronicles, only great 2-D platforming and a cool presentation. This is a pleasant Discovery indeed.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    If you have a PSP (or PSP go, as the game will be available for download on the PlayStation Network), LittleBigPlanet should be your next purchase.
    • 63 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Had developer Griptonite expanded the scope of the city and cleaned up the guard A.I., Bloodlines would've been on the same level as previous Assassin's Creed games. As it stands, it's merely a side chapter instead of a main attraction.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Nevertheless, just when we thought we'd seen the last of Jak and Daxter, High Impact Games surprises us with this thrilling romp. Welcome back, team.
    • 62 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Had Konami considered a wider camera display and additional multiplayer modes, WireWay could've been a huge hit. If you can accept these shortcomings, the game's worth a try.
    • 63 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Star Wars Battlefront: Elite Squadron may not be as good as the previous console releases that came before it, but for fans of the series, there's still some fun to be had.
    • 55 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    If you're looking for a somewhat fun action, you could do worse than C.O.P the Recruit. The shooting controls needed work, and it would've been nice to have a multiplayer mode, but this is one police story worth listening to.
    • 65 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Even though Band Hero is still a strong musical performer, its problems keep it from stealing the show.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    While Midnight Carnival ends too soon, it's a smile-inducing side trip that's worth downloading on your PSP or PSP Go.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Drawn To Life: The Next Chapter will appeal to fans of the first game, as well as kids who love building things.
    • 90 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars has problems, but we're still giving it a hefty thumbs up.
    • 34 Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    Just avoid it and go see the movie instead.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Small control and connection issues aside, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games for the DS is the superior version.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Half-Minute Hero will take you several hours to beat, and while some of the objectives can be a grind (especially in Evil Lord 30), boredom never becomes an issue.
    • 54 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    There's barely any new content to sift through in this third chapter, and most of it fails to impress. Nintendo needs to rejuvenate this brand or scuttle it entirely. We're sick of going through dungeons. Show us something new.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    The presentation is the best we've seen yet for a PSP racing game, and the controls are surprisingly manageable. Still, the missing online compatibility and extremely limited car store leave this entry feeling above average when it should've been superb.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Beaterator could've been a little more consumer-friendly, with a better hands-on tutorial and some minor sequences. Not everyone will get it, but would-be music maestros and DJs should definitely give it a look.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Even though it doesn't look as good as other MotorStorm games, we're happy with the way Arctic Edge turned out. The controls are easy to learn, the presentation is solid and the crashes and stunts are just as fun as ever.
    • 63 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    If you're looking for a good zombie fix this Halloween, Undead Knights should be on the top of your list. The addictive zombie-commanding action, multiplayer options and blood-soaked presentation will make you want to join this legion.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Although Modern Warfare 2 is obviously superior, it's nice to see that DS owners have a great alternative with Mobilized. The gameplay is fun, and the presentation is jam-packed with excitement.
    • 55 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    No, DiRT 2 isn't filled with the same awe and wonder as the console versions. That's obvious. However, if you can look past the speed bumps, you'll see it's a moderately enjoyable racer.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The controls are excellent, the create-a-player and versus options will keep you entertained and the presentation won't let you down. Yup, the Soul still burns.
    • 56 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    For some, Warriors Orochi 2 will feel like the same old song and dance. However, give Koei credit for making enough changes to make it feel like a sequel rather than a lame expansion.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    If you're not in the mood for a full Brain Age release, Arts and Letters is worth messing around with. The main games are fun and the addition of Themes mode prolongs the replay value better than we expected. We're all for new downloadable Brain Age releases, as long as they work as well as this one.
    • 47 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    With better character abilities, less (make that way less) story sequences and improved multiplayer options, G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra could've been a movie tie-in to be proud of. Instead, it deserves a dishonorable discharge.
    • 53 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Although its developers didn't bring anything new to the table, Strikers 1945 Plus Portable is a satisfying shooter. At $12, however, we wish there was more bang for the buck.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    No, Holy Invasion of Privacy, Badman! What Did I Do To Deserve This? won't change the way you look at tower defense games. There are better ones out there with minions that actually act the way they're supposed to. Despite that, there's a decent game hidden within the issues.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Asphalt 4: Elite Racing is worth every penny of its 800-point price, with a huge amount of racing action and great old-school controls. Buy it.
    • 58 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    Despite the interesting concept (it reminds us of the old-school Lost Vikings games), Overlord Minions doesn't get the job done, thanks to unimpressive visuals and broken gameplay.
    • 54 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    Although Flower, Sun and Rain shows signs of innovation, it's much too confusing to enjoy. There is originality here in spades, but the experience lacks direction. Skip it.
    • 67 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    If you already own Mario Kart DS, there's no reason to buy MySims Racing. This is just a sloppily constructed clone with a below-average presentation and been there/done that gameplay.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    If you're a Guitar Hero fan or someone with a passion for music, you're bound to like Modern Hits just as much as the previous two games. However, Activision needs to shake up the system and add more features and DSi support. Without it, this series will flame out.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Despite the fact that you'll need to pick up a DSi to play it (there's no plan for a cartridge version), Mario Vs. Donkey Kong: Minis March Again! is an outstanding game.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Legendary Starfy is a terrific debut, despite the overly cute presentation. You'd do well to wish upon this star.
    • 49 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    Ninja Council 4 disappointed us. The sloppy controls, ancient presentation and sub par multiplayer options will leave you reaching for another Naruto game. You know, one that's actually fun.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Patapon 2 is just as wildly addictive as the original, with its energetic gameplay and presentation.
    • 60 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    If the only system you own is the Sony PSP and you need an X-Men fix, you could do a lot worse than X-Men Origins: Wolverine. Rent it first, bub.
    • 65 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    The multiplayer options and new battle additions make Strikeforce better than other Dynasty Warriors games. Perhaps Strikeforce 2 (we're sure Koei's already working on it) will be the ultimate battle game.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Nevertheless, if you're a fan of puzzle games and want to treat your DSi (and yourself) to something fun for both quick and lengthy sessions, Dr. Mario Express is worth the prescription.
    • 36 Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    Air Conflicts: Ace of World War II is just another forgettable piece of vaporware. Leave it for the history buffs and take flight with Ace Combat instead.
    • 28 Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    In all, Dragon Ball: Evolution offers zero redemption for its hefty $40 price tag. Stick with the anime and forget this thing even exists.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    We fully recommend Hammerin' Hero because it doesn't hold back on the fun.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Guilty Gear XX Accent Core Plus shouldn't be missed. It's an outstanding game with the type of controls, presentation and extras to make any fighting fanatic proud.
    • 53 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    With downloadable levels, additional stages and balanced gameplay, Gravity could've really been something special. Instead, this is a puzzle game best left on the shelf.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Additional mini games and rewards would've made Rhythm Heaven live up to its name. As it stands, however, it's a quirky, entertaining romp that deserves at least one playthrough.
    • 53 Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    While we're huge fans of the series, WarioWare: Snapped! is a novel tech demo that shows just how far Nintendo needs to go to create a compelling DSi experience.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    If you're a Brain Age veteran, you know what to expect. If you're new to the series, the price of admission is just right and worth a shot.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    If you have some Nintendo points burning a hole in your wallet, this wouldn't be a complete waste of $5, but other DSi games offer a greater value. When it's all said and done, the most Art Style: Aquia has an interesting title and not much else.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    Bird & Beans doesn't use the Nintendo DSi camera, microphone or even the second screen, but for $2, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better value in the DSi lineup.
    • 56 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Even though you're forced to play the game solo (sadly, the game lacks multiplayer), Tokyo Beat Down has enough goofy moments to warrant a rental.
    • 60 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    If you're an eco-friendly person looking for an ideal DS experience, or you just want to see what planting flowers with a stylus is like, Gardening Mama might be for you. Be forewarned, however. It's nowhere near as fun as the cooking games.
    • 48 Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    With a better interface and more (way more) work put into the story, Lux-Pain could've been sweet. Instead, its limp gameplay and uninspired design should inspire you to bury it in the dirt with all those worms.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    In the end, Major League Baseball 2K9's shortcomings keep it from surpassing its handheld competitor, MLB 09: The Show. However, the variety of modes and mostly fun gameplay make it worth hitting the mound.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    Shadow Assassins could've been a great game had some things been changed or revamped. Instead, only the truly dedicated will see it through to the end, and even they may opt for the original PSOne game instead.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Because of these hiccups, Samurai Shodown Anthology isn't as sharp as it should've been. Still, for fans seeking a quality portable fighter, it earns a modest recommendation.
    • 54 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    Touch Mechanic might be worth a rent if you're nuts about cars or know what it takes to get an alternator ticking again. Everyone else, however, should skip it. Its punishing learning curve and lack of fun steered it in the wrong direction.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Pokemon Platinum is probably the most elaborate entry of the series, thanks to its involving storyline with the Distortion World, its Wi-Fi-supported features and its addictive gameplay. Sure, it feels familiar, but thanks to its new additions, Nintendo earns the game's Platinum status.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    As it stands, TrackMania DS is a suitable and fun racing game. We would like to see more with a sequel, including longer tracks, a friendlier track editor and online options, but for now, it's still worth a few laps.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Resistance: Retribution is worth a look, thanks to its enjoyable single player campaign, sharp visuals and addictive multiplayer. PSP owners should definitely pick it up.
    • 93 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Unless you despise GTA, Chinatown Wars is an essential purchase. Rockstar did an excellent job transferring the mayhem to the DS, and we suggest you run out and buy a copy ASAP.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    If you're looking for the next step in the role-playing genre and don't mind doing a little work, open up the book and crack the Code. You won't regret it.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Still, if you're looking for something a little out there that will stimulate your mind for a few hours, these mushrooms will give you quite a trip. Boing! Docomodake DS avoids most of the pratfalls that normally kill commercialized efforts, and that's worth a modest recommendation.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    MLB 09: The Show is a solid portable baseball game, but a few changes would've made it a homerun.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    Peggle: Dual Shot is the ideal game to take on a vacation or long road trip, as it'll pass the time and leave you smiling. Pick it up and go Peggle crazy.

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