Acceptable, but like a photo of the Mona Lisa rather than the real thing. [Nov 2004]

It's not all bad - a few neat touches will bring a tear to old-skoolers' eyes, such as the random random generator for invasion battle odds. It's not enough to wow those spoilt by "Civ IV," though. [Apr 2006, p.95]

The most perverse thing though is that the most enjoyable moments have little to do with Tokien or his wonderfully overactive imagination; it's much more to do with Turbine's ability to knock out a compelling MMO experience. [June 2007, p.56]

For the second time in as many series, the fourth episode is by far the best. [May 2008, p.114]

Like "Pirates!" in space, but not as good as that suggests. [Oct 2005, p.92]

Tron 2.0 is shockingly flawed. Given that there are so many good ideas – the skill system, the gorgeous and unique textureless neon design, the mistakes are that much more upsetting.

Tailor-made to please its boy-racer target audience, but if you want more sophistication in your racing go back to GRID. [Dec 2009, p.93]

There’s little new that stands out in Icewind Dale II to recommend it. There's a lacks the style and emphasis on story that characterises the genre’s best.

Played the original? Then you'll probably enjoy this. [June 2005, p.92]

Plenty of depth and enough diplomacy to hold the attention, but it'll be too ponderous for some and too ugly for others. [Mar 2007, p.76]

To all intents and purposes, this game is identical to "Football Manager." The difference is while Brits understand the beautiful game, we haven't a clue about ice hockey. [Aug 2005, p.95]

Essentially more Sam and Max. [Jan 2008, p.73]

If, however, you've played Myst before and hated it for its slow pace, its limited movement and the distinct lack of (perceived) gameplay, then this new version will do nothing to change your mind. [Dec 2004, p.88]

Unfortunately, what with this being a simulator, the faster you go, the more difficult the flying becomes. [Christmas 2007, p.67]

Shiny graphics and slick production can’t hide the tedium.

An amiable enough RPG, once you escape the first two hours, but it's let down by an appalling translation and glitchy combat. [Christmas 2007, p.58]

Assuming that the humour clicks with you. This is a first episode as awesome as the Bad of Much Strong himself. [Nov 2008, p.109]

Evolution doesn't happen, according to this particular history book. [Dec 2005, p.98]

Inevitably anticlimactic. But there are a few smiles within. [Dec 2006, p.115]

Defense Grid is fun while it lasts, but won't last you very long. [Feb 2009, p.101]

The puzzle elements are more like extremely simple exercises that you have to complete, rather than challenging problems that need solving, and the same is sadly true for the strategy.

There are no real uprisings to be found in THe Warchiefs' colonies. [Christmas 2006, p.102]

The main problem though is that this one features too much aimless wandering, and nothing like enough danger or excitement. [Mar 2008, p.109]

This game is most definitely not one for the faint-hearted; the sheer scale of the beast is truly something to behold. [May 2006, p.97]

Ample proof that thinking men are welcome in the modern army.

It's simply a tale of new areas and new monsters to left-click on with whatever over-powered kill-stick you have in your inventory. [Apr 2007, p.66]

The adamantium claws sure are sharp, but are they really all you have? [Christmas 2005, p.96]

Tries to include facets of two genres, and feels confused and compromised. [May 2006, p.94]