This handheld version of the game feels more like the N64 incarnations, which I prefer to this generation of ASB.

This game suffers from the fact that its console counterpart is so amazing and that it seems to distance itself from that greatness.

Strikey Sisters really feels like a game that should have been released 25 years ago, both in its unique blend of classic genres and its almost era perfect presentation. It really makes you wonder how it took people this long to make a brick breaking game like this. While this combination is plenty of fun, there are still a few gameplay mechanics that could use a little more polish and balancing to perfect the recipe. Still, it will likely deliver a lot of enjoyment for just about anybody who enjoys clever gameplay or well executed retro design ideas.

New Blood represents third-party innovation at its finest and is a solid buy or, for the more cash-strapped, an absolute must-rent.

The patches make the game more fun, less difficult (if needed), and surprisingly much better. If only some other publishers could learn from this example, ports may not be so bad after all!

Mantis Burn Racing is an incredibly frustrating game. An overview of the game reveals a lot of promise thanks to its solid visuals, rewarding upgrade system, and interesting career structure. However, once you actually start racing, things begin to fall apart; your first few events will be fun but you’ll quickly realize how the content is spread thin and you have a long way to go before you’ll get to experience something new and fun. In other words, there’s some good stuff buried in Mantis Burn, but getting to it is a real slog, thus making hard to recommend for all but the most hardcore of racing fans desperate to relive the top-down experiences of yesteryear.

It works beautifully.

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.

Even with my complaints, there’s no denying that what is present in Sonic Origins Plus is nonetheless worth the time of fans. These four Genesis platformers remain some of the best in the genre after all this time and have never looked better. The various extras in the museum are engrossing and the additions and tweaks that the Plus DLC provide only make the compilation better. Thus, I give Sonic Origins Plus a nod of recommendation, even as I find my teeth grinding as I think of all the wasted opportunity here. Oh, and expect to still download the Plus DLC even if you buy the cartridge version! Yet another oddity among many in this compilation.

A fantastic game. I thoroughly enjoyed spelunking through the game’s massive world, and even though the story can get lackluster, it does excel when it tackles its religious themes.

In 20-04, the pitchers can now burst into flames while performing extraordinarily on the mound.

American Wasteland creates a near-perfect balance that all free roaming games strive to achieve.

This is one of the best games out on the DS right now, and the definitive version of the Puyo series to reach the states, though the Japan-only Puyo Puyo Party for Dreamcast still holds the title of best Puyo period.

It may be disappointing to some that this title isn't a new platform game featuring Ubisoft's limbless hero, but what Wii owners ended up with is a pretty worthy substitute.

With its gorgeous visuals, moody story, and clever platforming gameplay, Nihilumbra is definitely trying its best to join the hallowed halls of indie greatness. However, I think it falls short, but not by much.

The randomization in For the King is enough to make the replay value quite high, but whether bought physically or through the eShop, the game also comes with all previously released expansions. For the King has been out on Steam for a couple of years now, so that’s a lot of extra content to bite into. For the King might lean slightly too much on overused fantasy tropes, but it still manages to squeeze something new and creative out of them. I’m obsessed with how cool the visual design is in For the King, I love taking on its challenges with a friend, and I sincerely hope that there’s more to come from IronOak Games. This is a delightful first outing.

Madden NFL 08 isn’t the quantum leap that last year’s version was, but in most respects, it’s better.

Toki Tori 2 won’t be for everyone. The pace is slow and the price tag will keep away a lot of people on the fence. But for those that enjoyed the original, or puzzle fans that might have missed the boat, this is a very unique and cerebral experience that shouldn’t be missed.

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.

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.

The unnecessary challenge in actually figuring out how exactly to play the damn game. Next to nothing is explained as it seems to rely almost entirely on player intuition, and there are virtually no tutorials present to help you out either.

The visuals are smooth and colorful, just like the films, and the gameplay is set up to bring little skating fans joy.

It is charming and enjoyable, though, and that’s all I want from a piece of software I enjoy on a mobile device. Treat yourself and make some time. It’ll surprise you.

Fans may be turned off by the emphasis on speed and racing, but those willing to let go of their ideals will find an enjoyable experience.

A great swan song for the DS. Its production values are stellar, the game plays very well, and is chock-full of some sweet content. Plus, it's literally as close to MegaMan Legends 3 that any 3DS owners are likely to get in terms of play, style, and overall feeling.

Whether you played the 2004 version of Mario vs. Donkey Kong or are just stepping into the series, I recommend giving this remake a go. It’s a fun game that feels great to play and offers a good challenge, and because it was a game initially made for GBA, it’s good for pick-up-and-play bursts. It’s also a nice change of pace from typical Mario games, and a great example of the sort of creative, unique titles that came out of the GBA era (and have aged well).

Tales shows that smart, solid elements add up to that elusive experience untarnished by time that defines a classic.

Like, it all feels like one of those LEGO-type adventures that I've heard so much about, only with more charm since it's got Scoob's and my personalities and all of the gang here to help out.