While the [single-player] combat is still brilliant and it looks a lot better, the unskippable cutscenes, unvaried locations, irritating characters and mini-games all really grate. However, adding in the much improved multiplayer with a variety of cool vehicles, Treyarch has really rounded off Infinity Ward's vision. [Dec 2006, p.90]

The moment-to-moment action of narrowly avoiding explosions and falling buildings produces hundreds of those heart-in-mouth moments that Burnout is so famous for. While comparisons to Critereon's superlative series are inevitable, Black Rock's effort is, if anything, even more spectacular.

One of the best sports franchises just got... exactly the same. [Xmas 2014, p.85]

The love that's gone into this HD remake makes it more than worth its budget price. If you've never checked out this series, don't get bogged down by details: Halo is about a big bloke shooting cool guns at cool aliens in cool places. Ten years later, that's still enough.

There's a great game in Revengeance, buried under the rubble of a previous franchise collapse. With a little less zatsu and a little more dan, Platinum Games could be on to something.

There's no denying that PES 2013 is a huge improvement over the last few offerings. However, the years spent fixing the football side of things have allowed FIFA to eclipse it in terms of game modes, so that's what Konami should now focus on evolving for next year's edition.

A game that celebrates the HD-era Sega rather than the old, forgotten one. Good job it's such a blast to play, then.

It’s strategically strong, with custom setups, objectives and teams available. The ten or so maps are, as always, well balanced though uninspired, and the AI can be a beast – humans even tougher.

The most exhilarating moments, however, arrive care of the game's brutal action sequences.

Still fresh 15 years on - and just as much fun. [Christmas 2007, p.107]

A traditional but beautifully crafted, memorable shooter with loads of personality. [Issue#225, p.78]

By far the best, most revined version of FIFA yet - its presentation and 'big game feel' are second to none. [Dec 2007, p.78]

A confident step up from the already impressive first part and a tantalising taste of what's still to come. [Nov 2014, p.90]

Full of an overwhelming amount of stuff to do this is insane value for money and pretty to boot. Still, we can't help but feel a shake-up is needed for Far Cry 5 to prevent series fatigue.

Still downright scarier than most of its successors and an unforgettable journey. [March 2015, p.74]

The combination of a compelling plot, plausible characters and a stunning world to explore means that, while rather brief, this is one of the more memorable experiences on the Xbox 360 this year.

Perhaps the most impressive thing, though, is that it's managed to feel like a totally authentic Halo experience, rather than just a cynical spin-off. We've no doubt a strategy game will be a hard sell to a lot of people, but if this introduces even just a small proportion of die-hard Halo fans to a rewarding new genre of game, or indeed just a small proportion of strategy fans to the brilliance of Bungie's rich sci-fi universe, then it can be deemed a success that the now defunct Ensemble Studios can be proud of.

A wonderfully emotional return, but struggles with some poorly written characters. [March 2018, p.76]

Being the weakest episode in a series that's been so consistently amazing is hardly massive criticism, though. We'd felt quietly confident about it for a while, but the cliffhanger at the end of Episode 4 leaves us in no doubt: the final episode of is going to be an absolute corker. If you've not started playing, it's time to catch up.

As a series reboot this is perfectly acceptable, but it's the new and innovative online aspects that make SSX feel absolutely superb. Packed to the brim with clever ideas, SSX is a truly unmissable surprise. While most other online modes feel like painting-by-numbers, SSX shrugs and tries something refreshingly different. This isn't just brave - it's brilliant.

Clever cloning leads to some of the most inventive puzzles we've seen in a long time. Master its mad logic, and you'll find an excellent puzzle platformer. A really pleasant surprise.

As an exercise in carrying triple-A bloat gracefully, however, it's among Ubisoft's finest efforts. Fisher might look like the world's grumpiest, most grizzled ninja, but he's proving quite the crowd-pleaser.

Indie fun that jumps through all our hoops. [Dec 2012, p.79]

Reminds us how great shooters were before Doom and Wolfenstein were rebooted. [June 2017, p.72]

If you want more of the same but shinier, and slightly more serious Tony Hawk action, this is the best skate game for some years.

It's possible someone who doesn't buy into the Saints Row universe with such enthusiasm will find Saints Row IV exhausting and boring. Might we suggest those people attend a local museum, where the paintings of flowers might be more to their taste. If violent psychopathy is the price we have to pay for a world of awesome harmony, sign us up.

A lack of decent advanced tutorials keeps the bats firmly separated from the boys and the likelihood of extensive replay fairly slim. But for fans of the DCU, it's show-stopping fun. It's the game we deserve, if not the one we need right now.

Looks so pretty but plays just the same. [Jan 2008, p.90]

Still the best golf game out there, but a short list of new extras means it's not worth the cash if you already own "06." [Nov 2006, p.68]

This game oozes perfection in its simplicity. Its ideas are well-executed and spot-on, the dialogue is witty and clever, and though it's often tricky, you're always willing to hop in for another blast.

Simplified controls. [Nov 2013, p.97]

Very difficult to get past the button-bashing stage, but persistence pays dividends. [Sept 2017, p.68]

Loses [10 points] for being essentially the same game as on last-gen, but this is nonetheless a unique adventure that tugs on the heartstrings as much as the analogue sticks. [Nov 2015, p.78]

Solid - but lacks the intelligence of "GTA"... Without a doubt, Saints Row's biggest contribution to the genre is multiplayer. This also happens to be the most fun part of the game. [Sept 2006, p.8]

Star Wars fans, LEGO fanatics or lovers of the first game will be in ecstasy. A must-buy. [Oct 2006, p.94]

Treyarch may not always hit its targets, but this remains a genuinely fresh take on an old sub-series in an even older franchise. A game as well-oiled as its cyborgian characters. [Christmas 2015, p.60]

Provides tons more fun and cool stuff to do in an already quest-packed fantasy RPG. [Sept 2018, p.74]

An engrossing mix of sci-fi strategy and simulation - but this is a lesser version. [Issue#225, p.80]

This is a truly entertaining game. There's no pretension - just enjoyable mayhem. It doesn't claim to be the Messiah, but it is a very naughty boy. Volition has tapped into nearly every wanton act we'd want to commit in an open world and more besides. [Nov 2008, p.67]

Kevin Spacey might take top billing, but it's the array of powerful PMC tech that's the real star of the show, making the stalest formula in contemporary videogames feel remarkably fresh.

Yarny's co-op adventure is a wickedly inventive devil in sheep's clothing. [Sept 2018, p.80]

It's Virtua Fighter 5, only tarted up. [Sept 2012, p.105]

A Bowie-esque reinvention. [Christmas 2015, p.75]

The best sports game on Xbox Live Arcade. [Feb 2008, p.103]

A lot of people were disappointed with the last Hitman game. This one's better. Not by much, but it's more user-friendly, has had a slight visual upgrade and the plot and game settings are a big improvement over the lacklustre "Contracts." [June 2006, p.52]

Though disappointingly short, Untitled Goose Game offers an evening of entertainment unlike anything else out there. If you have Xbox Game Pass, download this goosey gem ASAP. [Issue#187, p.79]

This Middle Eastern adventure is one of the most beautiful cinematic games ever devised, but not one of the most rewarding to play. It's also one of the most mature, thoughtful games of recent years, challenging you with ideas and concepts that are far from clear cut. But where is the freedom of choice? Unless you count the difference between the dagger or the sword, there really isn't any.

Strong, simple concept, executed beautifully. [Mar 2011, p.102]

The wackiness never clicks, but the relentless combat momentum certainly does. It won't change the world, but does a very good job of splattering it with mutant blood.

But casual strategy fans will enjoy dispatching waves of cavalry, artillery, and airplanes in head-to-head online multiplayer matches. Just be prepared to take a few beatings while you find your footing.

As a single-player experience, it's every bit the quality of a full-priced shooter. [Christmas 2011, p.97]

Just Cause 2 is undoubtedly an improvement on the first game. The grappling hook is still enormous fun - even more so this time around - and there's generally more variety in the missions. Sadly, it still follows its predecessor in regularly reaching points where none of the challenges on offer seem even remotely interesting.

For ten hours, longer than many entire games, RAGE feels massive, open and beautiful. It's crushing to discover that it's all smoke and mirrors, but while the illusion lasts, it's brilliant.

While the polish is there, the Rockstar sense of humour and typical depth and complexity of experience are both sadly absent. [July 2006, p.80]

An intelligent and self-aware sequel, this successfully shifts the tone of the series' debut. [Jan 2017, p.80]

EA's touchdown sim gets plenty right, and leaves behind some fallow seasons. [Nov 2018, p.83]

At first it’s novel – and funny – to hear cats and warthogs spouting the usual high-fantasy nonsense about prophecies and world-eating serpents, especially as some of the voice acting is a bit off. But as the hours go on that all fades away to leave a well-realised setting. Along with the central mystery, it all makes for a compelling tail. Sorry – tale. Okay, perhaps we haven’t quite forgotten this is an animal kingdom. [Issue#180, p.87]

Vampire Smile is the product of just one man. Everything, from the slick lo-fi graphics layered with intense lighting effects, to the urgent, industrial music, is by James Silva....Don't be too quick to be jealous.

One of the finest console strategy games ever. [Jan 2013, p.96]

An extremely satisfying and often hilarious campaign.

The longer you spend in Terraria, the more you discover that the Minecraft comparison, while obvious, isn't fair to either. Compared to Mojang's all-conquering virtual Lego set that encourages creativity, Terraria is more of a "game" with definitive goals, rules and progression that deserves to stand on its own merits.

A must-buy game that offers several hours of intense fun. Get blinded by the lights. [Aug 2018, p.90]

When it works, Project CARS is unbelievably good. But overly-aggressive AI, odd collision physics, imperfect pad controls and several bugs mean it's just shy of greatness.

We can't wait to see what next year holds. [Dec 2012, p.97]

The core puzzling itself is horribly addictive. Poker Smash isn't going to make you want to eat ice cream-topped pizza but it is the perfect way to kill a few hours.

Monaco is a stylish and considered game that's all the more remarkable for being the work of just one man. It's absolutely worth your money.

Midnight Club: Los Angeles is most successful when it keeps things simple. The game's checkpoint events and time trials are the best we've seen, and the option to create circuits from scratch adds the potential for some truly epic contests. For slick graphics, intelligent design and pure arcade fun, this is the racing game to keep your motor running this winter.

The minimal animation style underscores that this is the deepest strategy and most hardcore game on Live Arcade, if not on the Xbox 360. [Jan 2007, p.96]

As valiant an attempt as its name suggests, but ultimately this is a story simultaneously too big and too personal for the tappy trappings it's been couched within.

If you want all the moves, entrances, costumes and storylines you know and love perfectly rendered, then this is a consummately crafted experience tailored just for you. Yet for the beat 'em up fanboy or non-wrestling fan - newbies beware! - this is going to be very short-lived entertainment.

Accept its slow pace, and Cities: Skylines will reveal depth and drama you couldn't plan. [July 2017, p.90]

Still, there's no denying that Ninja Gaiden II has tons going for it, and when the combat works, which it does for most of the game, it can be a beautiful ballet of blood and steel with you at the centre, devising and scrapping split-second plans as you rip your way from alamo to alamo. If you've got the stomach for it, Ninja Gaiden will reward you. They just could have been a little less mean.

A great retro RPG, but a few niggles make it tough to enjoy by modern standards. [July 2018, p.76]

It's slicker than a blood-drenched balcony and the dev's best fascist-smasher yet. [April 2017, p.82]

Charming and jam-packed with content, but lacks a compelling narrative. [Issue#225, p.90]

A totally unique surveillance experience impressively set in a compelling alien world.

Prince of Persia may not be a world-changing nine, but it is a fantastic eight. The look, the feel of the game, is one one that turns back time and makes what was once the waning memory of an ailing genre fresh once more. [Christmas 2008, p.58]

If you don’t mind being killed by the odd nuke – how anyone can score 30 consecutive kills is beyond our tiny minds – PvP could swallow your damn life. Pair it with a gutsy (if insensitive) campaign, and this tonally conflicted series continues to stay relevant thanks to the best guns in the biz. [Issue#184, p.68]

Under the cheery looks is a surprisingly gripping shooter; one that, second time round, offers a healthier spread of modes and an addictive breadcrumb trail of hero progression.

A creaking but stellar current-gen send-off. [Dec 2013, p.91]

A nicely remastered, pretty JRPG let down by a slightly dodgy battle system.

An entertaining, exciting game that looks simply stunning. It really does the genre, and the Xbox 360, justice. And you can't get a higher recommendation than that. [Dec 2007, p.88]

An old-school adventure that lacks new ideas but is beautifully put together. [March 2017, p.84]

Adults and older kids will probably vibe with the GTA-like open world a bit more, though the basic physics and challenges make it very 'GTA-lite', too. What's urgently needed, though, is a patch for the flight controls that make it a game best enjoyed from the ground, ridiculous as that is for a superhero game.

But the thing which pulls this down to a seven is actually its technical aspect - while diving in and out of the subgames would amuse, the constant loading pauses before most fracture its atmosphere.

This is imaginative and witty stuff. [Dec 2015, p.78]

From giant pandas to Streets of Rage-inspired brawling, this is the most complete fighting game available to-date.

Bulk can work to a game's disadvantage if there's nothing drastically new on offer, however, and Revelations' later stages are a bit of a slog. It's just as well this is Ezio's final hour, because enjoyable as the game undoubtedly is, the base mechanics were showing their age in Assassin's Creed 2. Recommended, then, providing you're not expecting a massive overhaul.

With Xbox Live play, leagues and mini-games you're never going to be bored - unless you just don't like American football. [Nov 2006, p.100]

So beyond the handful of menu options with flashing "NEW!" logos next to them, and the potential of the Story Designer to deliver some hilarious content, Smackdown vs. RAW 2010 doesn't do a great deal to progress the series. The sweat isn't even noticeably shinier.

It's still not as compelling as the show or the books, but The Sword in the Darkness at last has us intrigued for what future episodes will bring.

If you utterly exhausted last year's effort and are waiting for the revolution the series now sorely needs, keep on walking.

An all-out assault on the brain, a gruesome spectacle to behold. A horrific beauty has once again been born by Monolith. [Mar 2008, p.87]

That Ubisoft saw fit to make a shooter for laughs is enormously commendable, and a step that we hope others will follow. But its commitment to dumbing down means that this is a pure-bred B-game rather than all-star A-lister.

It's a turbo-powered drifty racer with a loveably fractured premise and a world that's full of challenges and stunts. It's better than it has any right to be.

Trine’s brand of puzzle platforming returns to form in this colourful yet challenging sequel. [Issue#184, p.87]

A light-hearted take on heavy-duty subject matter is no more than what we've come to expect from Travellers' Tales. In adding RPG features without shattering the returning mechanics, however, the LEGO team have arguably outdone themselves. You shall not pass this one up.

A tasty multiplayer morsel that tests eye-to-mouth as well as hand-to-eye co-ordination. [Oct 2016, p.96]