I'd give it a green jacket. [Nov 2007, p.104]

Cutthroat competition and fierce racing tactics make Karnaaj Rally an exciting battle-racer. [Apr 2003, p.137]

As with Ocarina of Time 3D, the publisher has taken the best game in a long-running franchise and made it better in every way. [Sept 2011, p.68]

A new Yoshi platformer may not bear the same crushing weight of expectations that accompanies a Mario platformer, but it does carry the Super Mario World DNA in its genes--and fans of the franchise are legion. [Jan. 2007, p.100]

"Quotation Forthcoming"

Lots of cool villain-mimicking moves and a collection of beautiful backgrounds make the game fun to play and great to watch. [Dec 2002, p.220]

Although the game is unquestionably brutal, the violence is so over-the-top that it's more humorous than gruesome...For any hardcore gamer, this one is not to be missed. [Apr 2009, p.82]

PVZ will grab you in its mesmerizing clutches and leave you slack-jawed and ceaselessly shuffling about for more. [Feb 2011, p.86]

Some casual gamers may balk at Madden NFL 07's overall complexity, but it won't make any enemies of Madden fans, and the minigames will be the life of the football party. [Jan. 2007, p.102]

Fortunately, a great storyline makes it easy to keep going in spite of the uneven difficulty. [Holiday 2007, p.84]

The biggest knock against the game, though, is that it simply isn't as groundbreaking as its predecessor. [Dec 2010, p.88]

The difficulty curve is perfect, and the game is constantly introducing new concepts to keep things fresh. [July 2004, p.119]

You've-got-to-see-it-to-believe-it graphics certainly don't hurt. [Oct 2009, p.88]

The one-to-one swing mechanics are phenomenal and offer lots of customization options to cater to players of all skill levels. [Oct 2008, p.88]

Big-time fighting fans will enjoy the complex moves and new fatalities. [Mar 2003, p.138]

More than just a GBA makeover, the new Pokemon Pinball is an evolution in game play, offering livelier Pokemon to catch and Pokemon ecosystems clevery built into table designs. Pokemaniacs will be mesmerized. [Nov 2003, p.150]

It's dynamite.

Despite some frustratingly expert-level AI in the compute opponents, Open Warfare 2 is one you don't want squirming away from you. [Nov 2007, p.104]

The innovative connectivity features really take Pokemon to the next level of gaming and promote Pokemon community. [Oct 2004, p.123]

The overall package is one that only fairly young players with generous parents are going to really enjoy. [Nov 2011, p.76]

Phoenix Wright lays down the law for the third time in two years, and the outcome is no different from before: we've got another excellent DS graphic-text adventure on our hands. [Dec 2007, p.85]

The innovative connectivity features really take Pokemon to the next level of gaming and promote Pokemon community. [Oct 2004, p.123]

It's incredible that a game about farming could be so enthralling. [Jan 2004, p.157]

Although the fighting controls are complicated, the rest of the controls are simple and intuitive. [Nov 2003, p.151]

A Marvel Comics fan's dream. [Dec 2004, p.144]

Smooth control and tons of extras... A must-have for fans of brutal battlers. [Feb 2003, p.157]

Complex enough for dedicated gamers who want an absorbing adventure. [Apr 2002, p.152]

The sequel shines even brighter. [June 2002, p.150]

The inventive momentum-building feature helps keep matches exciting and victory within reach. [June 2003, p.137]

If you're a fan of the genre, there are few better ways to get your fix on the go. [Aug 2008, p.89]

It's so intuitive, it's like your brain is moving the big ape directly. [May 2005, p.88]

The initial abbreviated matches against CPU-controlled swingers may seem too easy, but the game ramps up in difficulty at a steady pace. [Jan 2005, p.138]

Although this DS remake offers an attractive polygonal world and plenty of usability improvements, it still feels very much like a product of its time. [Oct 2008, p.86]

These are superior versions of already great games, but they don't offer a different enough experience to justify the "2" in their titles. [Oct 2012, p.80]

As far as handheld first-person shooters go, Ecks vs. Sever deserves to be number one with a bullet. [Mar 2002, p.136]

If you've got the patience to wrangle units, Age of Kings is a most worthy addition to your game library. [Mar 2006, p.85]

As a result, although Grimoire of the Rift is another solid effort that's sure to scratch your tactical itch, the original Tactics remains the pinnacle of the series. [July 2008, p.86]

You can't go wrong with FIFA 07--but it may not be worth the upgrade if you have a recent version. [Dec. 2006, p.112]

The new sketchbook graphic style in the menus and an awesome (and very customizable) soundtrack top off an unforgettable gameplay experience. [Dec 2005, p.111]

The masterfully crafted and converted game will keep you haning on every point, click and step of the way. [Mar 2002, p.134]

Nothing can match the joy found in simply picking up a controller and hitting the beach. [Sept 2009, p.88]

Nevertheless, regular gamers and TMNT aficionados alike will enjoy the tight gameplay and quality fan service. [Apr 2007, p.87]

Making a strong case for my game of the year, BK's biggest strength is an amazing battle engine. [Jan 2004, p.135]

The six-track game lays down plenty of twists and turns, and the spoken warnings from the navigator are a nice, helpful touch. [Oct 2002, p.198]

The animation is choppy at times, but the play control is tight and responsive. [June 2003, p.139]

Crown FFCC the console king of multiplayer RPGs - all others are pretenders to the throne. Single-player moode is a rich experience, but it's dungeon-hacking party play that rules. [Mar 2004, p.116]

These are superior versions of already great games, but they don't offer a different enough experience to justify the "2" in their titles. [Oct 2012, p.80]

For better or for worse, it makes the player the master of his own destiny. As it turns out, that's a heck of a challenge, but the challenge is worth it. [Apr 2010, p.87]

The play-by-play is really funny, and I think the rest of the game is a riot. [Sept 2002, p.162]

There's nothing else like it on Wii or any other platform, and I'm eager for more. [May 2010, p.84]

Fortunately for gamers new to the RTS genre, Ninjatown keeps track of how many times you've failed, and asks of you want to play on an easier setting after several unsuccessful missions. [Dec 2008, p.100]

All eight levels are surprisingly challenging and intense. [Aug 2002, p.146]

Five skill levels ensure that ever game is a challenge. [Apr 2003, p.139]

One of the best party games around. [Jan 2006, p.105]

What makes this edition of Skylanders Giants the best one are the high-definition graphics and the GamePad functionality. [Dec 2012, p.73]

It's a magical adventure full of mesmerizing sights and compelling gameplay, held together by whimsical characters and a simple but surprisingly powerful story. [Nov 2009, p.85]

Just as fast, brutal, complex and fun as "Guilty Gear X." [June 2002, p.154]

Its graphics look a little dated, but it changes up environments often and stashes tons of secrets - a good romp for platforming fans. [Jan 2005, p.137]

This may not be the Pokemon adventure you expect, but it's definitely one worth playing. [June 2012, p.82]

The game is long, challenging, and arguably the most fun you'll have on Wii at launch. [Jan. 2007, p.108]

The D-Day mission is one of the most intense and awesome levels I've played in a long time. [Jan 2003, p.171]

It's hard to imagine a more enjoyable baseball experience. [May 2003, p.138]

Some of the puzzles are a little too trial-and-error, but otherwise the tight action and playful RPG vibe are a delight. [Nov 2010, p.90]

Though the overall product doesn't quite measure up to this year's Madden or Tiger, FIFA 09 may be EA's best effort at catering to both casual and hardcore fans of a particular sport. [Dec 2008, p.94]

If there's a complaint about the game, it's that the random heroic episodes and some of the story-based activities are similar, making web-slinging seem mundane at times. [Sept 2004, p.114]

Fun but flawed, Lock's Quest takes real-time strategy into character-based adventure territory with stylus-controlled precision. [Nov 2008, p.102]

Overall, however, The Last Story is an awesome experience. [Aug 2012, p.84]

Few party games are as good as Rock Band, and although it has flaws, this version ultimately succeeds in bringing that festive experience to Wii. [Aug 2008, p.90]

Granted, it has the same basic, easy-to-pick-up-and-play gameplay, but it also has some neat DS-exclusive features(touch-screen minigames, for example)that make it stand out. [July 2008, p.90]

Attacking and formation options require time to appreciate, but the game's overall look, feel and flow make it time well spent. [Nov 2005, p.106]

Sharp graphics and an accurate pitching system help drive home the big-league fun.[Aug 2002, p.147]

A fast but very simple fixed-angle racer with limited graphic appeal. [Sept 2003, p.139]

The art has a cartoonish look, but the action is intense and challenging. [Feb 2004, p.152]

While surf locations are not as varied as THPS skateparks, the game delivers fun in the sun. [Nov 2002, p.224]

Smooth movement, great music and a captivating story line will keep Bond fans coming back for more. [Jan 2003, p.170]

Wii fans envious of their Xbox Live Arcade-playing cousins finally have something to crow about thanks to Geometry Wars: Galaxies. [Dec 2007, p.82]

This may be one of the smoothest racers ever, and definitely a most-wanted on my list. [Jan 2006, p.115]

The game's puzzles, massive areas and new copy abilities create a Kirby-filled experience that's as fun as it is challening. [Dec 2004, p.142]

More waterways would've been welcome, but the various weather conditions can change each course considerably and most areas feature multiple shortcuts. [Nov 2001, p.142]

For all its sizzle, NBA Jam also offers a surprising amount of substance. [Nov 2010, p.84]

Frighteningly fun. [July 2002, p.149]

Although Metroid: Other M has a few rough spots, it gets the really important stuff right...Fans will likely find bits to bicker about, but overall Other M delivers the goods. [Oct 2010, p.84]

Devil Survivor 2's sense of humor is worth an awful lot. The same goes for replay value, and this game has plenty. [March 2012, p.87]

Amazing...This might be the most creative game I've ever played. [Nov 2009, p.81]

Offers sharply diminishing returns after the first day or two of play. At least you'll enjoy the heck out of it while it lasts. [Dec 2010, p.81]

Within the launch window of the Nintendo 3DS, we've gotten two--Dead or Alive Dimensions and Super Street Fighter IV 3D Edition--and they're the two best games in the handheld's library so far. [May 2011, p.84]

Deke moves and a new Game Breaker feature put the focus on finesse. [Dec 2002, p.216]

The action is shown from an overhead view, with small characters in detailed environments. [Jan 2003, p.172]

There is something very satisfying about blowing through obstacles, rather than looking for keys that fit into locks. [May 2003, p.137]

The value in having two classic RPGs in one pak is astronomical. Combined, the games are worth 80 hours of play time. [Jan 2005, p.137]

One of the most fully featured sports games on the Wii console. [Oct 2009, p.87]

While I had a blast mending bones, removing tumors, and dealing with nefarious mystery ailments, it all felt very familiar; the game has hardly evolved beyond its predecessor. [Aug 2008, p.87]

Rock solid. [Sept 2002, p.165]

The first Sims title that gives you direct control over your character. [Feb 2004, p.151]

Production values have also improved, with graphics and sounds like those of WWE TV, though dialogue is not voiced. [Nov 2004, p.130]

Whether you're competing against CPU cars or your friends, though, GRID is one of the most challenging and entertaining racing games for DS yet. [July 2008, p.88]

Sure, you may grow a little tired of the backtracking after a few hours, but by focusing on upgrading Ellie and Chomp's powers, you'll still have a blast. [March 2011, p.90]

Since some of the titles, such as the window-treatment simulation Venetian Blinds, have no rules or scoring systems, it would be difficult to qualify them as games. [Mar 2004, p.119]