The force is just about strong enough to conceal the flaws. [Nov 2004]

It's plagued by page after page of 'I don't daren't [sic] skip this' tutorial help, but there are rewards for those who persevere. [Dec 2005 p.89]

Fans should definitely indulge but more frugal souls who choose to meet Monica for the first time via a budget copy of the original game are certainly no fools.

It’s an epic achievement in some ways, but our expectations weren’t met.

Worth a bash, but lacks the multiplayer support to hold your attention throughout. [Oct 2009, p.90]

Rather too over-familiar, but still a very entertaining stealth experience.

Gives you all the power in the Star Wars universe, but it takes away your opposable thumbs in the process. [Jan 2010, p.85]

One of the most rewarding games around for the devout strategist, but those less experienced will find it hard to get started, and may get disheartened by the obstacles.

A fun hack-em-up, but like inferior designers who use mirrors to make a room look bigger, this is half the game it pretends to be. [Sept 2008, p.106]

What it lacks in logic, it more than makes up for in mood and atmosphere. [Sept 2008, p.114]

Newbie friendly from the outset and tons of quests on hand, but misses the vital spark to make it a must-play. [June 2010, p.99]

The game's also beautifully presented. [Nov 2009, p.101]

Ultimately, the licence both saves the game, by giving even the most basic of its scenarios a degree of weight, and hinders it by causing regular moments where you double take, realising something isn’t quite right.

At heart, this is hands down the best theme park building game to date. [Christmas 2004, p.112]

If you’ve ever been excited by Sculder and Mully, or terrified by hydrocephalic children, there’s a game for you. It’s not pretty and it’s not perfect, but we’re so glad it’s there.

It's not stunning, but is a worthwhile bonus for any little fans of the film. [Oct 2006, p.97]

A luxury item, unless you've already gorged yourself on Civ's online modes. [Sept 2006, p.98]

Soulless, if well-realised hockey simulation. [Nov 2005, p.100]

There are hidden depths to the game mechanics, but only a dedicated killer will stick with it long enough to plumb them. [Aug 2007, p.50]

Crazy-arse shooting with its brain in its arse, and a mean streak.

Great for a kickabout but just not as addictive as "Pro Evo 4."

Wears its simplicity on its sleeve and is certainly a different slant on the genre. [Oct 2007, p.66]

There's a vast array of technologies to research and build, but the true joy lies in lovingly crafting your empire, species and ships. [Apr 2007, p.73]

The different location means that it's more than the usual tat. [May 2008, p.112]

Worth a look for those who remember when shooters were tough (and own a good controller). [Aug 2008, p.109]

The goals are satisfying, but there's nothing new. [Dec 2006, p.108]

It’s loaded with replay value, given the enormous number of permutations involved, and for those who can deal with it, it will turn out to be massively rewarding.

Lively, mindless carnage, with wonderful visual excess.