A very well executed game. Gameplay is tight, and the overall experience is a good one. However, the game is just too short.

I genuinely had fun with this title, but technical issues and a drab story kept it from achieving greatness.

An excellent wrestling game and deserves your attention just for the sheer amount of crap you can accomplish, collect, unlock, create, and on and on and on.

Proving Ground is another solid entry into the series that, once again, requires players to link tricks to score massive combos to progress through the game.

A fun game that ends much too quickly.

If you’ve never played this title before, add a couple of points for being one of the least informed gamers out there. There’s no shame in that.

While the presentation is a bit disappointingly simplistic, the core gameplay is fun and a worthy challenge to even the most seasoned of button tapping rhythm vets.

While comparing BlackThorne to the classic "Prince of Persia," it's obvious that it isn't as good as the revolutionary title. Nevertheless, that doesn't mean it isn't an overall good game.

A great alternative to GTA and TMB on the GameCube. While certainly not as stellar as these two hallmark titles, we’ll just have to stop complaining that there are no extremely violent games on the GameCube.

Anime characters and special shots may not be for everyone, but it's a fun diversion that features enough style, varied courses and a solid enough control scheme to be another strong step for sports on Wii.

Although it could have been a lot more with an extensive single player mode, the current build is brilliantly done for a high-score-setter.

Each overworld that Crash visits is filled with platform elements that have been drawn out from generation to generation and have just ceased to be original any longer.

Exploration elements provide awe, as well as a video and audio presentation that push the system to its fullest. A living, breathing world awaits, but the camera hiccups really do stutter the experience.

Eurocom have almost done the impossible: They have made a movie/novel based game actually good. The game exudes effort and it really shows.

Fighting game loyalists may want to steer away, but anyone looking to thrash perky and magically endowed creatures may find enjoyment in the world of Zatch Bell!

This game is nothing but fun, with a dash of frustration and an immersion in the pop culture of another country.

I love this game to death. Although flawed, it is still a lot of fun to play and gives you a good feel for the college game.

The finest 3D Sonic game to date, and for many, that is reason enough to warrant a purchase...Unfortunately, it is also a game hampered by ear bleeding music, a terrible camera and an unrefined control system.

The game looks and plays better, but still, even after a year on the PS2, this one is basically the same title.

Ninjatown does everything well for a tower-defense game on DS.

Impressive graphics, a simple yet pleasant combat system and multiplayer fun balance out the issues of sound and gameplay depth.

The only major drawback of Pogo Island is the island concept itself. Rather than including the board game and the poorly conceptualized minigame challenges, including a greater number of Pogo.com games would have been a better choice.

This is the best possible tool for luring non-gamers into the fold, and they will likely not mind the shortcomings for joy of their newness to videogames.

Overall, this game is exactly what it's titled: The Biggest Loser. Most licensed games will use a franchise name and little else, but this isn't one of them.

For all the mediocrity that can be said about Avalon Code, the few truly outstanding things do a lot to help the game.

Even though the unlockables are unbelievably light, Mega Man X Collection is a great value.

Despite being a fairly low-frills package, Family Feud: 2010 Edition manages to keep things fun and fresh with its large amount of content.

Phantasy Star 0 does have plenty of problems, with the troublesome camera and uninteresting and repetitive single player scenario standing out as the most damning. However, thanks to one of DS's more solid online offerings and the very addictive nature of seeking newer and better loot, Phantasy Star 0 ultimately emerges as more than merely mediocre.

Pipe Mania is a decent reinterpretation of a classic game, and as a puzzler, ranks pretty high on the historical hierarchy.

This is the best possible tool for luring non-gamers into the fold, and they will likely not mind the shortcomings for joy of their newness to videogames.

While Lux-Pain achieves some good things, it's hampered by its quality of localization and its over-reliance on one or two major tasks.

If LSP can fix the somewhat limited maneuverability of the on-foot levels, deepen the narrative, and add even more upgrades, than Hip-Games will have an irrefutable winner on its hands that no gamer could turn down.

Football is finally good on DS. Madden NFL 08 is solid where it counts, and the small problems that do exist aren't bad enough to pull the game down.

Even though the game is too short, the slick presentation and enjoyable gameplay add up to a rewarding experience that largely overcomes its flaws.

Great for kids. It isn’t too difficult, but it doesn’t hold your hand throughout the entire game.

Taken as a whole, the experience has been incredible for both developers and gamers. While it lacks captivating gameplay mechanics, the series brings a novel premise, sharp visual and musical presentation, great story and top-notch localization, creating a franchise that doesn't need trendy themes like war mongering.

While Time Hollow doesn't necessarily bring a ton of new ideas to the adventure genre, it does provide a satisfying, if somewhat short, experience for fans of investigative gameplay and time travel story lines.

If you like fantasy worlds, the Skittles commercials, or witty, tongue-in-cheek games, this one is recommended for you.

Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare really is a difficult title to attach a number to; some parts will blow you away, but you will always have a sinking feeling that something is off.

Primary weaknesses of the title, beyond the learning curve, are blander-than-expected course designs, pyrotechnics and character personalities, in addition to the use of many minimally refreshed, recycled courses from older SSX titles. However, thanks to those new controls, SSX Blur is a fresh start for the franchise and sets a foundation for bigger and greater sequels, just as the series had in the last console generation.

While the deep gameplay and long-paced play sessions (thankfully endowed with a quick-save feature) can be engrossing and rewarding for experienced players, strategy novices will be left in the dust fairly quickly; so, like the first game, this title is probably best for mecha and turn-based tactics fans.

The few hitches, such as a lack of a robust online mode, do not ruin the experience. Instead, it just stops the title a tad short from reaching the upper echelon of DSiWare experiences.

Just know that it’s very different from every Harvest Moon before it; It’s less busy and paced moanre slowly, it emphasizes the livestock business more than the crop-growing one, and it's not about accumulating a fortune so much as it's about building a family and watching it grow.

This is the best possible tool for luring non-gamers into the fold, and they will likely not mind the shortcomings for joy of their newness to videogames.

Anyone who is not prepared to be mercilessly challenged should avoid the purchase.

Overall, Nostalgia delivers as solid a gameplay experience as its venerable influences but ultimately fails to deliver the same spirit and energy that truly makes a game classic.

It's just too bad that Capcom didn't choose to create a new game from scratch for Nintendo's dual-screened handheld. Next time, expectations will (and should) be higher.

Lots of variety, interesting bonuses, substantial replay value, GameCube connectivity, and various multiplayer modes make this title a must-have for Bond fans, and your average Game Boy owner looking for a classic, heartwarming action game.

Tecmo Bowl: Kickoff is a faithful reinterpretation of the classic pigskin game that everyone knows and loves.

The idea of using the Veritech through a number of objective-based missions plays off very well in Robotech: Battlecry.

A more fleshed out offering than Pac-Pix, and is a cut above most handheld games. It’s a competent 3D platformer with a great camera system and a well-implemented control mechanic.

A good addition to the Classic NES Series mostly thanks to the brilliant wireless multiplayer feature, but also because it's a timeless puzzle game.

No matter how much fun it is to create your own partner and train them up, nothing compares to having a few friends over whom you can swear and throw cushions at when they miss simple balls.

There are just too many glaring problems that would make this game recommendable to anyone but the most faithful of Madden fanatics.

Riders does contain some glaring flaws, mostly in the way of menu bog-down and an inconsiderate lack of multiplayer options. It's a shame that a game with so much going for it is so hindered by such simple oversights.

Naruto: Clash of Ninja Revolution is not a bad game; however, it is not a great game either. It’s a good game with growing pains.

Definitely one of the best Terminator games since the old coin-op light gun shooter based on 1991's "Judgment Day."

I enjoyed Spyro Orange much more than the previous GBA installments, although the gameplay was much more simplistic this time around...A good buy for parents to look into.

While by no means an accurate simulation of legal process, there's no denying the soapy dramatics, rich and endearing characters, and delightful wordplay puzzles make this a winner.

The pinpoint controls and well-integrated HUD allow for a great action-RPG experience, with excellent pacing on leveling up your character.

Fans of Grasshopper's original work will not be disappointed, but adventure game fans that don't have any previous experience with Suda's work may want to think twice about this one.

It provides an original story with polished visuals and audio, brings in lots of favorite heroes and villains, and has much variety in both gameplay and level design.

More polished and personality-laden than many other third parties' minigame collections on Wii, this title is actually solid fun for solo players and groups alike.

Many games become constrained and overridden by technical flaws and design problems, but No More Heroes breaks through with a cast of characters and story that exudes style and imagination.

Despite some shortcomings, Naruto: Path of the Ninja is a worthy effort, and just might be the best portable Naruto game currently available.

Anyone who loves it will continue to love it, and for anyone who's sick of the formula, this isn't the game to change your mind.

A solid effort from Rare -- but not enough to uncrown the reigning Nintendo kart champs.

Rogue Agent doesn't really break any new ground in the FPS genre, other than allowing you to duel wield any combination of single-handed weapons you wish, but that doesn't mean it's a bad game either.

Overall, Madden 2002 is a better game. However, NFL QBC ’02 is a fine game, and offers a different angle on football...makes a strong argument to own more than one football game.

In the end, loyalty to the movie plot is what weighs Transformers: Autobots down. Still, Autobots is the version to buy for REAL Transformers fans.

My Life as a King is not for everybody. The sluggish beginning will detract many gamers, especially those unfamiliar to the simulation and management genres.

The only problem is that Sonic Team just tried to do too much with it. Instead of getting a really solid set of pinball tables, it's a mediocre collection of several different play modes.

This is a game that still remains worthy of your time if you enjoy 2D shooters and classic anime and manga. Its aesthetic is great, the animation segments are a delightful throwback, and the soundtrack is also strong. Space Adventure Cobra: The Awakening fans will doubtlessly enjoy this one, but as I said earlier, I was no fan and I still found myself rapidly drawn in. Given how influential a series Space Cobra has been, it’s also a nice glimpse into the inspiration for so many game creators over the years. Definitely consider giving Space Adventure Cobra: The Awakening a play.

As a whole, Gunvolt 3 is a solid entry in the series. The gameplay is challenging but supported by precise controls that, when mastered, will see players flying across the screen clearing out whole waves of enemies. Striving to get top Kudos rankings in each stage can quickly become addicting. Although the bloated storyline can become tedious at times, and the lack of a properly playable Gunvolt at all times are disappointing, this is still a game that Gunvolt and action game fans won’t want to miss out on.

Payday 2 remains a unique experience in the FPS genre thanks to its subject matter and dedicated approach to team work. And while quite a bit has been said about how this Switch version isn’t up to date with all the content released on other platforms, the package doesn’t feel incomplete or even light on material as there is still lots to do. Furthermore, the game executes all the core mechanics well and looks good while doing it. Aside from a handful of small yet noticeable issues, the biggest problem remains the lack of in-game voice chat. Altogether, this means that this version of Payday 2 might not be the best way to experience the game, but it is certainly serviceable for those willing to go the extra mile to arrange for other voice chat solutions.

The presentation of the menu and in-game action is top-notch. Maybe it's only because it's a handheld and nothing like this has been seen on mobile devices yet, but it feels like a perfect experience, at least at first.

Sure, with its simplistic graphics, it's definitely a budget game, but it's one that actually deserves a place outside the bargain bin. Those worms want to be on top, after all.

There’s a lot to love about Cursed Castilla EX. From its innovative use of classic source material for its narrative to the bold, intricate pixel art that makes up its visuals, Cursed Castilla EX hits all the right notes. Innovation can be difficult with the sorts of games that have existed from the days of NES to now, but in the hands of creative developers like Locomalito and his companion Gryzor87, it’s clear that there’s plenty left to mine when a project is handled with care. Absolutely consider giving Cursed Castilla EX a look the next time you’re perusing the Switch (or 3DS!) eShop.

Remaining faithful to the franchise by displaying it in the manner intended by Dreamworks and PDI, I am delighted to recommend this game to any of you out there who are particularly enamored by the guy in green we know of as Shrek.

Given the fact that this is the franchise's real debut on a Nintendo console and Wii's success in bringing in new gamers, Samurai Warriors 3 is going to be the first chance for many gamers to try this controversial series, and to those people I definitely recommend at least giving it a try.

With great puzzles, a fun cast and story, and excellent puzzle building tools for aspiring designers, Pushmo World deserves a spot in your download cue.

After every punishing stage I finished in Oniken, I felt completely drained; my nerves shot. I would force myself to take a break, jumping into a less emotionally taxing game before heading back. That feeling clearly won’t be for everyone and the game’s over-the-top violence will definitely scare off some gamers. However, the personal satisfaction that comes from finishing each of the game’s stages cannot be overstated. Oniken: Unstoppable Edition is meant for a certain kind of NES fan; those that revel in that sort of old-school challenge will find little else like it on Switch.

Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa is a great example of a kid’s property done right.

If you like the soundtrack or are willing to look past it, you’ll have a lot of fun punching and kicking to the beat of the music in KickBeat: Special Edition.

Dance Dance Revolution Hottest Party is a solid entry in the series and a great place for the uninitiated to jump in.

Depending on your exploration and puzzle solving skills, Ittle Dew will last between three to six hours. It is not a terribly long and epic adventure, but one that has a lot of heart. If you truly love the Legend of Zelda series and adventures in general, Ittle Dew is the perfect game to remind you why that love exists in the first place.

Overall, the Wii U version of The Amazing Spider-Man is a fun experience, but not the best Spider-Man game out there. It is, however, the best version of this particular game by a long shot, and, if you’re a Spider-Man fan, you should definitely check this one out.

An amusing adventure, but it is clearly lacking polish.

Regardless of what you’re looking for, Lost in Harmony does a good job finding different ways to appease players of different interests and skill levels. It’s also filled with catchy music and solid controls and, in the rhythm genre, there’s not much more you can ask for.

It’s a bold, unique title that does so much within its sparse confines. Experimental games like Minit deserve to be embraced by fans and I hope that those of you reading this will soon count yourselves among those who give it a download.

Casual RPGers may or may not latch onto this one, but longtime fans of the genre will should pick up Opoona without hesitation.

Island Adventure is far from perfect, but it’s also a genuinely fun experience that, when it gets things right, it gets them very right. I wouldn’t have put 60 hours into this game if I wasn’t having fun with it. But at the same time, if I’d written this review with 20 hours of gameplay, I likely would’ve given it a lower score. As I said before, it really takes a while for Island Adventure to get going and for a substantial amount of quests and content to unlock. And even some of the very first quests you’re introduced to can’t be completed until after days of gameplay, milestones are hit, and other quests are completed first (despite being introduced much later). Patience is key with Island Adventure, but it’s well worth the wait. This is, hands down, the best licensed Sanrio game I’ve ever played and there’s a ton of opportunity to improve on the more middling aspects with future updates. But for now, it’s a fun experience for Sanrio and Animal Crossing fans that’s worth diving into.

While Ape Out doesn’t last all that long, it certainly doesn’t overstay its welcome, either. The game is an absolute blast to play, and an experience that will delight most players. Between the game’s stylish presentation and unique use of music, Ape Out feels unlike much else on eShop. The game is very much an impressive achievement from developer Gabe Cuzzillo, and those who value quality over length will find a great option in Ape Out.

While it has plenty of flaws, Attack on Titan 2 actually presents a surprisingly compelling package. As an adaptation of the anime, it does a good job of capturing the series’ signature sense of action and as a game in general, it presents mechanics and ideas that are entirely unique. The game’s issues with repetition and presentation would likely make it tough to recommend to all series loyalists, but given the gameplay, it becomes a much more interesting experience that might be worth checking out to those looking for a different sort of action game.

A salute to Atlus for bringing something unique and fun to the market so early in this new year; here’s hoping Eden Industries gets a shot to expand on the foundation it laid here with a future sequel.

Considering the quality on-hand here and the overall level of polish, Freestyle 2 has gone above and beyond what one might expect from the average eShop game. The gameplay is fun and tight, and though the physics can get a little weird in spots, this is largely everything about the first Freestyle writ larger and better. I wasn’t a fan of all of the customization features on offer, but I did enjoy tweaking my bike, and I especially liked how easy it was to make my own tracks. Though the inability to exchange track codes in-game is a glaring flaw, it’s one that can be easily worked around—which I frankly suspect the design team was aware of when they put together the game. 3DS might be getting a bit long in the tooth, but it’s still an excellent platform with compelling software like Urban Trial Freestyle 2.

There's much less action or platforming and it's all about solving the puzzles on your own time.

Transformers Animated proves to be a surprisingly enjoyable game that could appeal to more than just young fans of the television show.