DiRT 3 is the best racer since Forza in 2009, and we can't think of greater praise.

It combines a proper level design and engaging gameplay. It’s definitely a great return to form for the series. While the control scheme is one of the most functional, it has a few quirks and the game in general does somewhat lack some personality.

Whether you're an old-school trainer or a newbie to the world of Pokémon, you'll be hard pressed to find a portable role-playing experience as engrossing as Pokémon: Heart Gold/Soul Silver.

New Super Mario Bros. Wii is another wonderfully crafted Mario game that is engaging for both old and new players. Sadly the lack of online multiplayer and innovation, and gimmicky motion controls prevent it from becoming the crown jewel of the series.

Brilliant visual flair and charm that make Paper Mario a treat to watch. Almost like watching a Mario cartoon.

This is one of the most fun games I've played all year and for me it's definitely better than "Mario Kart 64," especially in the overall track design department, so if you loved that then you need this.

Donkey Kong Country Returns represents the apex of 2D platformer design, not just in reviving mechanics we're all familiar with, but reinventing them for a new generation.

Jimmy Hopkins is a more entertaining character than any of the GTA leads (except perhaps Tommy Vercetti). This propels Bully to a status of well above average, providing a rich, detailed gaming experience – but not without its flaws.

Treyarch deliver a solid story-driven campaign, addictive zombie madness and a wealth of new multiplayer content in the one outstanding package, making Call of Duty: Black Ops a contender for first-person shooter of the year.

The definitive PSP gaming experience.

While some may find retrying certain sections repeatedly due to some of the puzzles being genuinely challenging a little bit annoying, the entire game is so compelling that you'll more than likely just be more inspired to give it another go when you happen to make a mistake.

Despite not straying far from the proven template, The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks has genuine improvements over its predecessor and shows that the series is still the king of adventure puzzlers, console or handheld.

Superbly structured strategy gameplay and a wonderfully colourful, humorous and entertaining setting make Disgaea: Afternoon of Darkness one of the best strategy RPGs around.

Whether you're an old-school trainer or a newbie to the world of Pokémon, you'll be hard pressed to find a portable role-playing experience as engrossing as Pokémon: Heart Gold/Soul Silver.

In Rayman Origins, Ubisoft and Michel Ancel have crafted both the best platforming game of the year and a striking monument to the giddy joys of the medium's heritage. Fun, funny and frantic.

Retaining the classic role-playing and battle systems, Pokemon Black and White is treat for players old and new, with an engaging and lengthy adventure and countless new Pokemon to catch.

Wipeout HD is the best PSN game yet, jam packed full of content and polished to a shine. Highly recommended to anyone with a love for speed.

Very well-executed football management sim catering to the business-minded group of the fans. Anyone not after crunching numbers and statistics should steer clear.

It's not without some flaws, but Dirt 2 is a worthy follow-up to its predecessor and, perhaps more importantly, a worthy tribute to Mr McRae himself.

A spectacle of sights and scores. Treasure has committed the best of sins to ascend to shoot 'em up heaven. Why not join them?

Resistance 2 is a rock-solid sequel and does everything required of a shooter in an extremely capable fashion. It may not be the most technically adept or memorable piece of software, but it remains consistently enjoyable for the months of gameplay it provides.

Flower is not only a breath of fresh air, but a gust of glorious wind on which your spirit will soar. This is a work of art, a quiet classic, and a game which will be remembered and discussed in reverent tones for years to come.

LittleBigPlanet on PSP offers some astonishing opportunities for creativity on a handheld platform, but doesn't quite live up to its bigger brother.

PixelJunk:Shooter is a blast to play through and an addictive game at that, and is sure to please many of the shmup fans out there.

Dawn of War was, and still is, a superb real-time strategy experience, and Dark Crusade only adds to what is probably one of the best sci-fi RTS series to date.

An excellent game and one that any racing fan should pick up. It may not feature any Australian content but the gameplay is addictive and enjoyable and that's what matters most.

Great in every regard. Better than the first game in every concievable way, and a strong recommendation for those even simply curious about the story of Kingdom Hearts.

With a few good additions to the solid gameplay, and ignoring the one not-so-good space combat addition, A Crack in Time is a great conclusion to a great trilogy - and possibly the series.