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
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Despite some questionable design and admin decisions, Castlevania: The Dracula X Chronicles is one of the best retro gaming compilations that you'll ever find, though casuals need not apply.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    While the game still needs some patching, and is unfortunately not DoD as we know it, this is still an absolutely fantastic package; those after a new multiplayer shooter can’t really go wrong with this one. Oh, and expect this score to go up over time as Valve patches out various problems.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Whilst not being overly different from the previous Battlefield games it does offer significant improvements and additions to gameplay to make it an extremely good game. A few bugs bring it down a little.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    With the stunning visuals and audio sections of the game it’s somewhat of a treat for Xbox gamers to witness. Sadly, Battlefront is hurt greatly because of a lack of effort put into the game’s AI and overall single player production.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Through a combination of great storytelling, a user-friendly interface and gameplay so fun that it'll keep players entertained for hours on end, Dawn of War II – Retribution offers both new fans and veteran players with a compelling reason to delve into the action.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Virtua Tennis 3 might be a mere incremental upgrade, but it has almost everything one needs in a tennis game. Online play on the 360 version of the game is just the icing on the cake.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 65 Critic Score
    PES 2012 doesn't help itself by remaining in stagnant waters, and if it doesn't receive a complete overhaul next year, then we're afraid the end is nigh.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 65 Critic Score
    The controls are an issue to consider before deciding to purchase this game as well, because although it may not seem like they will make that much of a difference, they do.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Our main complaint with Virtua Tennis 3 is the fact that Sega are happy to sit on their laurels and release a game that is very similar to its predecessor. However, they say that if it isn't broke then don't fix it, and Virtua Tennis 3 is definitely not broke.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    The game just feels a lot faster than its predecessor. The motion blur really helps to make the game a lot more intense, and the tracks are a lot more realistic.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Despite the lateness, Call of Duty 3 is a intense and enjoyable shooter for the PS3 but only worth it if you haven't already played another version.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The Trial and Execution of Guybrush Threepwood may not be the funniest episode, but it does have a lot to do, some great puzzles, and Stan.
    • 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.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    While the single-player options may not be very compelling, if you're after a quick portable battle by yourself or with friends, Broken Destiny fits the bill.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    In terms of the graphics, the PS2 version does a very commendable job both in terms of technical ability and presentation.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Ghost Recon: Advanced Warfighter is too unpolished to justify the costly hardware required to run it properly.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Valkyrie Profile: Lenneth provides two things for the PSP that have been largely missing: a great RPG and a unique gaming experience.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    A fitting end to the stories of Ezio and Altaïr build on a high standard of gameplay fitting for the series, ultimately held back by a lack of true gameplay evolution. Fans of the series won't be disappointed, but may find the wait for Assassin's Creed III made just a little bit harder.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    UEFA EURO 2008 is a fantastic game, and it's amazing how different the title is from FIFA 08. Football fans who are heavily into the tournament should pick this title up immediately.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Whilst not a giant leap from its predessesors the game does offer some new online options that may add to its appeal for some.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The game now leans more towards "run and gun" game play rather than sitting back and plotting your path. The hot swap feature is great though, and isn't just a gimmick.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Geometry Wars: Galaxies is a fantastic game and easily the best Geometry Wars title yet. Any shooter fans should have no hesitation in picking this title up.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Nintendo has taken ideas of what a videogame can achieve and has thrown them into a completely different universe. While others play with increased physics engines, Wii Fit entices you to play with your own physics and for the most part, succeeds at something we've never really seen before.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    A terrific sampling of the Mega Drive's greatest hits, with excellent achievements that egg you on to play them all.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Possibly the best Kirby game ever. Platformer fans need this in their collection.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Despite the repetitive fetch quests, the fine story retelling and accessible fighting system make Naruto: The Broken Bond among the better anime or franchise based games available.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    The controls, graphics and story are great, but length and lack of replay value brings the game down - but it's always nice to play something different now and then.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Worms: Open Warfare 2 hardly reinvents the wheel but is a much better package this time round. It also can be a lot of fun.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    FlatOut: Ultimate Carnage comes highly recommended for anyone who enjoys arcade racing titles. This is a game that definitely lives up to its title.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    If you like an RPG with an element of sci-fi and don't mind being smacked around a lot in battles, then Star Ocean is certainly an RPG for you.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Metal Gear Ac!d 2 is unquestionably a title that is better than it's predecessor. The combat is a lot faster and there are more cards, but some of the problems that plagued the original title (like the annoyance of equipping weapons and the dodgy camera work) are still present. Metal Gear Ac!d 2 is an okay title if you're after a turn based strategy game, but PSP games have come a long way in nine months; this game has only made short steps.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Sonic CD is one of the more robust examples of quality nostalgia and how developers should handle their distribution in the modern age.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The best wrestling game so far of this generation, but there are still a few bits and pieces that need some refinement. Still, for the ultimate WWE gaming experience, look no further than the WWE Smackdown vs. Raw franchise.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    An ambitious game that hasn't (yet) fulfilled its potential. There's brilliance here, but it's currently being smothered by technical issues and an unfortunately wobbly multiplayer component.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Yakuza 3 is a delicious serving of bone cracking action with a dash of RPG sensibilities to boot. Those looking for a good dose of brawling action to sink some hours into should look no further.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Overall a good idea, but poor execution throughout. A good technical showpiece for the Xbox 360, but in truth a disappointing game destined for the bargain bins in six months.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Rock Band Unplugged is a fantastic portable representation of the series, and is worth picking up for any music game fan.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Experimental by design. It might not always work, but when it does its an experience hard to forget, wearing the Metroid tag with pride with its head held high.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Sesame Street: Once Upon a Monster is an excellent family-friendly experience that kids will learn a lot from and adults will have fun with. This is definitely a game that lives up to the Sesame Street name.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Rare took a huge risk by giving the franchise a new direction, but thankfully it paid off. Nuts & Bolts is easily one of their best titles in recent years.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Star Wars Empire at War is the RTS Star Wars fans have been waiting for. Not only will those that loved the movies be impressed, but the game also offers a great deal of engaging play that should please any fan of the genre.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Even without the UFC license, EA Sports MMA still manages to offer a polished, engaging and 'different' MMA experience that is likely to satisfy fans of the sport.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Scribblenauts is about as high-concept as a game comes, and delivers remarkably well on its creative premise. However, some control frustrations and limited level design hold it back just short of true greatness.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    A very enjoyable game that gives you greater control over your players than ever before. The series has had a rest on next generation consoles thus far, and the break has certainly paid off.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Almost scuppered by bugs but ultimately a compulsive gaming experience.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    As familiar as Dead or Alive can be, a solid fighter in its own right, and a genuine alternative to SSFIV 3D, especially if you're new to the fighting genre.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Lost Planet: Extreme Condition is an intense and enjoyable shooter from the reliable Capcom stables. The single player, while a little too short by modern standards is an absolute blast. The multiplayer is a little different, fun and likely to be popular until the next big Live game is released.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    A real treat for gamers who enjoy economic simulation games, though depth is minimal and may have you looking elsewhere soon enough.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    A quality game that has turned out to be much better than its predecessor.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Whether you fancy the occasional puzzle or PSN title, or you're a puzzle game addict looking for your next hit, Puzzle Dimension will be the answer to your prayers. With a creative twist on mechanics and a welcomed splash of retro paint, be prepared to say goodbye to many, many hours.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Eternal Sonata offers a unique blend of beautiful scenery and surprisingly tactical combat to create one of the better RPG's that we've seen over the past few years. This is definitely worth a crack for hardcore and casual RPG fans alike.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Echochrome is one of the most inventive games available not only on the PSP, but anywhere. For somebody looking for something new in the puzzle genre, you can't really go wrong with this one.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The best Xbox Live Arcade multiplayer experience since Battlefield 1943.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Some great rainy weather fun. But nothing spetacular.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    GrimGrimoire is a game that could have been great had it had a little bit more variety and a few minor tweaks. That said its gameplay is definitely one of the best implementations of the RTS genre currently available on consoles.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Despite being a little on the short side, Gunstar Heroes is a great port of a fantastic game. At the price, it's hard not to give it another go.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Monkey Island is back. This first episode is a strong start, with Guybrush at his best, an amusing script and a barrel of grog to boot.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Tiger Woods PGA Tour 12: The Masters definitely uses the iconic tournament as an advantage and is a great golf game. But it needs more tangible reward and polish, with less fluff and gratuity.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Fans of the series will find that SSX on the PSP is very faithful to the series, there are a few control issues, but it's still a decent game.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    A good package of great fighting games that has it where it counts. A no-brainer purchase if you're interested in 2D fighters, worth a look for anyone else.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Virtua Tennis 3 is very similar to "World Tour," so the game is only really recommended for those who didn't pick up the first title on launch.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Sonic 3 is a fast and entertaining platformer, although it may be worth considering buying it inside of one of Sega's larger collections.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The King of Fighters 2002 Unlimited Match is quite retro from a technical standpoint and the 2D fighting genre has moved on to the next level, but for 800 Microsoft Points, you are getting the biggest and best playing The King of Fighters game ever made (period).
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    More than just a glorified demo, Dead Rising 2: Case Zero is a great little Arcade game in its own right and may prove to be better than the intended sequel.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 55 Critic Score
    If you want to walk around a large repetitive castle, Castlevania: Lament of Innocence will do the job for you.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Midnight Club: LA Remix is an expansive and detailed game, and is sure to please anyone with an appetite for speed.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It may have been the prospect of high-definition Pro Evo that created the most buzz amongst fans, but it's the superior PS2 version that comes out smelling of roses.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Dissidia is a disappointing title that is hard to recommend to anyone but a die hard fan of the Final Fantasy series.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    A huge collection of some of the toughest, chewiest, and most enjoyable crossword puzzles around.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    One of the best console RTS titles in a long time, if you've avoided RTS titles in the past on consoles then this game will change your perception on whether they can work or not.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Prototype is basically a game that you can pick up and play, have an absolute blast with, then walk away barely understanding what just happened. The chaos that ensues within the city is immense and often times damn near overwhelming, making you feel the aftershock after you’ve done it all, with a sudden familiar sound you know called silence.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Its dark humour and visceral splatter simply add to the charm of the whole package, and the whole thing is so fun and outrageous that it's impossible not to love it.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 55 Critic Score
    A huge disappointment. After "Wrestlemania 19" I was really expecting something special from this, but it retains everything that was bad about that game and merely covers them over with prettier graphics and a few new modes. Time to continue praying again for the return of AKI.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    If you hate puzzle games,Catherine will be like a scorned lover, vying desperately for your attention with methods that don't always work. If you love puzzle games though, Catherine will be the closest you will ever get to having the perfect relationship, drawing you in with its strong and compelling storyline and deep and multi-faceted gameplay.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Arcade perfect. The ports are very clean and faithful to the originals. No sign of pixelazation here.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Baddest of the Bands is pretty funny, and has a fair bit of content for your money. It's just not very original.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    It's great to see the second episode of the game come through both on time and, more importantly, deliver more of the humourous gameplay that the first episode gave us.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Telltale must have added MSG to this game as we loved the taste but continue to wish we had some more.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Diplomacy is a worthy add-on to an already stellar game, but those looking for more action and less negotiation may want to give it a miss.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Mario vs Donkey Kong: Mini-Land Mayhem is an impressive entry into the platform puzzling genre on the DS and a fantastic follow-up to previous entries in the series.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    This could be the game that convinces you to take the "Mario Kart" cartridge out of your DS. Metroid fans will love it. Pinball fans will love it.
    • 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.
    • 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.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    With around 70 levels to play through, both fun and challenging gameplay, and appealing visuals and sound, Toki Tori is a worthy addition in any puzzle game fans’ collection.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    A superior game to its predecessor, Final Fantasy XIII-2 is the game that probably should have been originally released. Even if it doesn't quite achieve everything it sets out to do.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    A fine addition to the roleplaying game lineup on the DS, Golden Sun: Dark Dawn is excellent proof that Nintendo can continue to build their franchises and aim for bigger and better things.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    NHL 2K7 improves upon what is still pretty much the best game of hockey available, but we expect a little more in the way of new features and improvements next time.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    The plot, which we've intentionally avoided going into so as not to spoil it, is much more interesting than your average FPS too. Its relatively short length, lack of challenge and uninspiring multiplayer mean that it doesn’t quite fall under the ‘must own’ category.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    It's old-school arcade racing of the Daytona/Ridge Racer kind, where shaving milliseconds off lap times is the real reward.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Rage is a bold new direction for id software with incredible art direction, old-school gunplay and a terrible story.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Driven by an excellent story and cinematic presentation, if you're a PS3 owner, Heavenly Sword is one of the exclusive HD experiences that you've been waiting for.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Tales of Vesperia succeeds in providing a great and enjoyable action JRPG experience for the Xbox 360, but could have shaken off a few of the older, peskier genre conventions.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    MotorStorm: Arctic Edge is the best arcade racer to hit the PSP platform, and is a fine addition to the already quality franchise that was born on the PS3.
    • 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.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    If you are a Geometry Wars fan or are simply after a shooter then you cannot go wrong with Galaxies. The game is ideal for the Nintendo DS and the controls are fantastic.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    We can't help but feel a little disappointed by Sonic Advance 3. There's nothing really wrong with the game, it's just feeling like Sega are treating this game like an EA update, with a few roster changes and minor enhancements. This feels more like Sonic 2.5 than a full fledged sequel.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    While better than 2005's effort, there just isn't enough different to make it a worthwhile purchase to last year's game. Everybody else though will find a thoroughly fun game of hockey.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    OutRun Online Arcade doesn't bring anything new to the table, but is does provide gamers with a solid arcade experience well worth the 800 Microsoft points.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 65 Critic Score
    Shattered Memories is an uneven, disappointing game which nevertheless shows ample promise of where the series might go from here. Fingers crossed that Climax re-evaluates the abysmal nightmare sequences and ups the fright-factor while maintaining their shrewd emphasis on pared-back, psychological horrors.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    A fantastic title for the Xbox Live Arcade because it's easily accessible and a game you can spend hours or minutes on.

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