There are deeper strategy games, but few where you'll feel quite so invested in the outcome. Recommended.

Two very similar factions dull its edge, but Grey Goo’s old-school take on strategy still makes it one of the most interesting new RTS games in years.

A packed, rewarding, and frequently thrilling looter shooter that should have a bright future.

The biggest problem with online play is that it's far too easy to dominate with a single player. [Feb 2005, p.52]

A total assault on your ears, eyes and reflexes. Thumper will beat you up, but you’ll enjoy it.

Hardcore, platoon-oriented players will definitely enjoy what Core Combat has to offer. [Feb 2004, p.75]

Late Night turns The Sims 3 into a hoppin' urban party, but if you're in it for the build mode you'll find apartment life limiting. [Jan 2011, p.71]

At last: royalty I feel emotionally invested in! Reigns: Her Majesty is a smart and surprising extension of the original swipe-'em narrative game.

Battlefield 6 is more about refinements than surprises, but a well-made Battlefield is automatically one of the best shooters of the year.

A promising, assured start, and a welcome return to form for Telltale.

Much thought has obviously gone into the mechanics of translating the film into an interactive experience. [Jan. 2007, p.64]

Ties That Bind makes a surprisingly convincing argument for it to keep shuffling onward.

Earth Defense Force 6 is big, dumb co-op fun and a masterclass in asset recycling.

The high-point of a consistently strong series, and a great showcase of adventure game design that fits the story's theme.

Hand of Fate 2 is a satisfying sequel and a meatier dungeon crawler, but still somewhat hampered by limited combat.

Once it finds its footing, Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma is an engaging romp through a charming and dynamic world.

A free-to-play MMO of a higher caliber, Vindictus' combo-driven combat and addictiveness make it hard to resist. [Feb 2011, p.70]

There's not another game quite like EU III out there. If it hooks you, it may be the only game you need this year. [Mar 2007, p.62]

NightSky delivers a short but sweet physics puzzle experience. [April 2011, p.76]

A satisfying, self-contained adventure that plays to the series' strengths, but doesn't add anything novel outside of its storytelling.

Call of Duty: Warzone reaches new heights in battle royale by ditching backpacks and throwing me in a Gulag.

Wantonly enjoyable and inventive zombie slaughter, held back by some unnecessary saving and leveling hassles. [Nov 2010, p.68]

MechWarrior 5: Clans delivers a strong story of struggling young warriors alongside the best-ever version its iconic, lumbering mech combat.

Previous World of Warcraft releases have been genuine events. This one is simply an expansion pack. A good expansion pack, for sure, with lots of content to keep you playing one of the best and most beloved MMOs ever created. Just don't expect it to be anything more.

Don't hesitate to try it as a flavorful and humorous new way to experience a beloved strategy template, with the AI or distant friends. [July 2011, p.69]

You're limited by a strict materials budget on each puzzle, but the solution is limited only by your imagination, your passion for tinkering, testing, and rejiggering, as well as your tolerance for roughhousing an innocent armadillo. [Nov. 2006, p.120]

Definitely not for the squeamish. [Dec 1996, p.82]

Guaranteed fun for strategy fans of all ages, but especially retro gamers. [July 2005, p.68]