PALGN's Scores

  • Games
For 1,949 reviews, this publication has graded:
  • 34% higher than the average critic
  • 6% same as the average critic
  • 60% lower than the average critic
On average, this publication grades 5.3 points lower than other critics. (0-100 point scale)
Average Game review score: 70
Highest review score: 100 Super Mario Galaxy
Lowest review score: 5 Elf Bowling 1 & 2
Score distribution:
1949 game reviews
    • 70 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If you’ve played the original, Thrillville: Off the Rails is very similar and only features a few basic improvements. That said, it’s definitely the superior version.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Despite the glaring flaws, there's a huge amount of enjoyment to be had with Singularity. It's not an essential title, but it certainly brightens up this dull time of year.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The Sims 3: Generations is a fun romp which relies on the patient, persistent player to unlock its hidden treasures.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    FIFA 08 is without a doubt the most realistic FIFA title yet, but only just. There have been a few gameplay refinements and the new modes are decent. It's disappointing Australians will miss out on the 5 vs 5 be a pro online feature as that is one of the drawcards for FIFA 08.
    • 52 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It's not dead on arrival, but it never reaches its true potential. It's not enough to stand out, but Neverdead will satisfy those willing to try something different.
    • 67 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    MTX Mototrax is a great racing game that is hard to fault. If you're an MX fan then you won't find much better than this game.
    • 65 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    In this hectic video game world of killing aliens, zombies and enemy troops, sometimes it's nice to just cook a lasagna instead.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The individual mechanics come together reasonably well with none being brilliant or outstanding but once you get the way that the game encourages you to play, it works out reasonably well. It's just too bad that it doesn't really hit the peaks that you'd expect.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    A refreshing take on the RPG genre. Your preferences will decide how much enjoyment you gain from it, but as it stands, Phantasy Star Portable 2 is an accessible adventure for every PSP owner.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Constricted. It isn’t so much that Darkstar One is a bad game, it’s just that the developers failed to optimise on good ideas - it seems as though they took the easy way out rather than expand on them.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The space fights almost sell this game by themselves. However, the game lacks enough difficultly or motivation to offer gamers with a long and rewarding experience.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Like the idea of mech-battling or are a hardcore gamer? Got Live? Got time? Got capable friends online? Then Chromehounds has something to offer you in these slow times.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    There’s just something so appealing about smashing vases against walls and ripping carrots out of the ground. A fun and ingenious design which makes Eledees a winner.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Saying that the latest FIFA is "beautiful but not as deep as it could be" is becoming a cliché in itself. But it's not without some truth, and although this is engaging for a while (and still the second best football game on the market), it's not quite a keeper.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    A sharp iteration of an old favourite; Yahtzee is a videogame adaptation of the utmost fidelity and benefits from the indelible charisma of Mr Potato Head.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It’s great to see more turn-based strategy titles on the PC, but a game that severely lacks depth isn’t going to satisfy everyone.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Alien Hominid HD appears to be cute on the surface, but the vicious and difficult shooter gameplay will separate the men from the boys.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Maniax isn't necessarily a bad fighting game, it's just that it has gradually been eclipsed by franchises such as "Tekken," "Soul Calibur" and "Dead or Alive."
    • 73 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Virtual-On Oratorio Tangram should only be considered if you're willing to take on the multiplayer and a lot of time to learn the subtle intricacies.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    A great Chess game for those who want to learn Chess or for those who have been playing for years.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    There are a range of gameplay modes on offer, a simple yet fun combat system, and there are several controls schemes to choose from. A must for Naruto fans.
    • 66 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Yu-gi-oh! GX Spirit Caller will give the fans just what they want. A fun portable way of enjoying their favourite card game and much cheaper than investing in the physical cards.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It isn't a huge upgrade but if you've been holding off for the Xbox 360 version then Battlefield 2: Modern Combat is still a very enjoyable game.
    • 39 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Whilst Settlers does its job reasonably well, the fact that there are so many occasions in which little occurs within the game is a little disappointing. However, if you have a great deal of patience Settlers is a relatively rewarding game.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Melding exemplary artistic merit with uninspiring gameplay, Brutal Legend is by turns captivating and clumsy, and certainly more fun to watch than it is to play.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    ET:QW on X360 is a watered down version of the great team-based PC title. The lack of new content coupled with the alarming fact that no one seems to be playing it make this one for the hardcore Quake fans only.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Cars isn't a highly innovative title and it has a few problems such as slow pacing and some technical errors, but for the most part the game is enjoyable and a great for fans of the film.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If you're a fan of Naruto, then Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 2 will float your boat. Non fans need not apply.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Rayman Raving Rabbids TV Party breathes new life in the franchise thanks to the inclusion of Wii Balance Board support and a more appealing set of mini-games. However, it’s time Ubisoft took it up a notch as the Rabbids humour and style is starting to wear thin.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Not much better or worse than past episodes in the series, Double Visions still has a spot of inspiration in its story, and a few good ideas for some of its puzzles.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    A top effort from Third Wave, War World is a good choice for anyone interested in a budget title with a big bang.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Scarface: The World is Yours may not do anything new but it does it somewhat well.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Not only is 50 Cent: Blood on the Sand a competent third-person shooter, it's a hoot to play - either by yourself or with a buddy in tow.
    • 62 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Make no bones about it, Splatterhouse is a worthwhile successor to its retro counterparts and a worthy addition to the ever-expanding action genre.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    While not quite a lemon, Test Drive Unlimited 2 proves to share a similar fate to its predecessor in that it possesses a host of flaws under its shiny coat of paint that make for one frustrating ride.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    A decent effort by Rockstar. More could have been done, and it doesn't have the tangible appeal of Wii Sports in the control department, but for a more traditional sports release with some motion based bells and whistles, it's not too bad.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Power Stone Collection has been given a second chance and it shows that not many games have come close to its original formula. Though two players and more is a must.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The Umbrella Chronicles should satisfy anyone looking for a solid light gun game, though some fans might be a little disappointed with its brevity.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The Movies: Stunts & Effects adds some top quality content, but fails to address the major issues that held the initial game back.
    • 64 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Academy of Champions Soccer competent soccer game that will instantly appeal to children. The lengthy story mode and simply gameplay design means it should be enjoyable to some degree for most players.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Brain Training sounds pretty promising as a concept, and there is some impressive technology behind the game, but portions of the title are noticeably rough.
    • 67 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It's a simple game but if taken it on its own merits, The Club should satisfy anyone with an old-school interest in high scores.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    MX vs. ATV is a game that is 'fun enough'. There will be gamers who will find a lot to like, and perhaps even love here, but it's unlikely they'll be coming back in six months time to relive the experience.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    TimeShift is a good game that could have been considered great if it was released earlier. Placed against the current competition though, most of the experience feels generic in execution. Only worth purchasing if you've already played through every other recent shooter out there.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Dr. Mario & Germ Buster is a solid game that's highly recommended for those who enjoy puzzle games.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    A lot of fun and a soccer game that doesn't take itself too seriously. If you were disappointed with "Sensible Soccer" but want an arcade alternative then you can't go wrong with this game.
    • 60 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If you like beat 'em ups, you will appreciate this one, but ultimately Fist of the North Star: Ken's Rage is a love letter to fans of the original series.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    One of the best expansion packs released for The Sims yet. Letting your Sims have their own businesses seems like a natural progression and the business element is deep, it isn't just a tacked on inclusion.
    • 60 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    A quality title that suffers from the fact that it had to be a little rushed. However, the fast game play and addictive career mode kept us coming back.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    And even though it’s a fun action in it’s own right with nice style, nice touches and some panache, the aforementioned issues as well as weak controls and brevity bring down an otherwise solid, if eventually run-of-the-mill third person shooter.
    • 48 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The game mechanics really do show infinite promise, and even with this first attempt there is some dumb fun to be had – except it takes no more than five hours to complete the game 100%. Yes it is simple, short, easy, shallow and a movie tie-in. But I enjoyed it.
    • 65 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Lose yourself in the limbs, style and lyrical waxings of Samuel L. Jackson, and the flaws in Afro Samurai won't be so glaring. It might not be the best game ever made, but it knows how to show off and have fun.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Citizen Brown has the most intriguing story so far, but it's still short, easy and holds few surprises for adventure game veterans.
    • 63 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Calling Maths Training a game could be stretching it a little, but anyone who needs to brush up on their maths skills or enjoys the idea of small daily maths quizzes will get a lot of value out of this game.
    • 66 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It’s easy to play, fun with friends and extremely addictive... and isn’t that what the Xbox Live Arcade is all about?
    • 68 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It may not evolve on its predecessor, but Tom Clancy's HAWX 2 is an entertaining air combat game with plenty of content and variety.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Singstar Rocks! lives up to its name and is quite simply one of the best Singstar compilations yet.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Toy Story 3 is a fun romp where you can set aside your inhibitions and play like you are a child again.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    A few issues aside, Battlestations Midway successfully melds a game that provides a strategic action game that isn't your run-of-the-mill WWII game.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The game also lacks a lot of favourable gameplay elements, and what is there usually feels like B-grade material.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If you’re looking for a new multiplayer experience, with a blend of new gameplay elements, and don’t mind its limited scope, then The Ship is worth checking out.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Master of Illusion is a solid magic kit on a cartridge, it's difficult to describe the title as a game but anyone looking to learn a little bit about magic can't go wrong.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Fans will delight in the more nostalgic and clever moments of 'It's About Time', but it's a short, easy and somewhat bland introduction to the series, which we hope still has time to get a lot better.
    • 55 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    A flawed but enjoyable experience for Indy fans. Much like the last film really.
    • 61 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    A decent, variable and exciting action game and fans of Star Wars have a game that won’t leave them cringing.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Activision Hits Remixed is one of the best compilations ever - with slick presentation and plenty of nostalgia, you won't find a much better retro compilation than Activision Hits Remixed.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    This is NBA with a little bit less seriousness. Don't take it to seriously and it's fairly entertaining.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    This is the greatest handheld American football game available and fans of the game are likely to be very impressed with the game.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    OK, so it doesn’t do anything revelational or new but at least it does it reasonably well in providing an intense and enjoyable experience. If the idea of playing a modern day Rambo and engaging in mass terrorist genocide, this game has something for you.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Brain Challenge is a polished and entertaining game that solidly achieves its objective of testing your cognitive abilities.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The new missions are tough, and should give the more experienced fans something to challenge themselves with, while the expanded accessories and arsenal are quite cool. It’s a bummer that the new melee attack is so limp – we’d really have expected a bit more force behind our police brutality.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    For single player only experience, this game is [60] and below. If you've got the friends and a WiFi connection, the game is [an 80] and above.
    • 63 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It's ultra-realistic, and terribly serious. But so long as you know what you're letting yourself in for, and can invest the effort required, it should keep you glued for some time.
    • 56 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Spelunkers HD is an enjoyable platformer, marred by an extremely difficult nature that is bound to turn many, if not most, away. If you're a gamer that relishes games with a harsh, unwilling and unforgiving nature, or were a fan of the original title, this is the perfect game for you. For everyone else out there though, save your sanity and stay away. Consider yourself warned.
    • 64 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The Run sits squarely in the middle of the franchise pantheon; its tentative steps into storytelling are often ham-fisted, but represent something of a unique avenue for the development of the racing genre, while the core racing model is just about good enough if one forgets that its Criterion-developed predecessor was released just one year prior.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Dragon Ball Z: Shin Budokai provides good fan service, keeps the core, fun gameplay intact and manages to be one of the better fighters on the PSP.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It doesn't offer anything new apart from the tracks... but that should be of no surprise to fans of the game. If you like to rock, SingStar: Amped is a worthy purchase for your party needs.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Infected is so surprisingly enjoyable, it's almost infectious. It just needs a bit more substance.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    There is better, there is worse and since this title has been drastically reduced (Seen it camera-less for $20) it’s worth a look into if you’re struggling for a title to purchase to shake things up a little.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    An addictive game, but nothing we haven't seen before.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Smackdown vs. Raw 2008 fixes a few of the problems from the 2007 game, but there are still a number of serious issues yet to be addressed. It's still a lot of fun, though.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If you're into tennis games then Top Spin 2 comes highly recommended, just don't expect a completely upgraded game.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    One of the best Crash Bandicoot titles of recent years, it is a real shame the game doesn't last longer though.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Don King Boxing won't rumble the world, but it's a solid effort with some great controls.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Not only the best Metal Slug 3 port to date, but also the best 2D side-scrolling shooter for the Xbox.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    A fun addition to the Buzz! Junior library, Dino Den is an entertaining romp that should keep the kids occupied, and enjoyed by the whole family should they want to give it a go.
    • 63 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Exactly the title that you would expect, whilst the game isn't likely to be a system seller it does offer some 1000 Sudoku puzzles and the multiplayer is a handy inclusion that sets this game apart from all the other Sudoku games out there; although it is disappointing that the gameshare feature is heavily under utilised.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If you're a Singstar fan and a Queen fan then precious minutes shouldn't be spent on reading this review, but on picking up the game.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Despite being a bit dated, F.E.A.R. 2 still delivers a solid shooter with enough scares for die-hard horror/shooter fans to relish.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    With interesting new modes and solid local multiplayer, Tetris Party Deluxe offers endless enjoyment with classic and additive Tetris gameplay.
    • 88 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    With more work put into the weapons, more diverse locations and more/or smarter enemies this could have been up there with the best.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Tiger Woods PGA Tour 08 is an enjoyable game for those who love the gentleman's game, just don't expect much to have changed.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Contact has a very strange feel to it, and not just that of a game with over-simplified controls.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    A well rounded multiplayer extension of the classic Men of War formula, hurt most by technical issues and a steep learning curve. Worth a look for fans of the series.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    A polished, if uneventfully designed episode, better suited to the Homestar Runner crazy-go-nut.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Twisted Metal: Head On isn't anything new, but amongst all the driving games on the PSP sometimes it is fun to play a racer than doesn't take itself so seriously.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    There isn't anything particularly new here, but using the Wii controller feels so intuitive that Banana Blitz quickly becomes a highly enjoyable experience.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It's a shame that the only real issue we had with Blur was its controls. If you can get over this the game is a blast, although not the SSX franchise's peak.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Magicka is a solid action adventure title with a clever spellcasting mechanic that will provide hours of entertainment for gamers, especially if they play co-operatively.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    You can't deny the fun the platforming and the combat brings. But that's really all it brings now. It's merely a game you 'play' rather than an adventure you 'experience'.

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