Rough spots aside, the game represents a worthwhile expansion and is a welcome addition to the genre. [Nov 2007, p.71]

The new maps make getting into the heart of the battle much quicker and easier, and the new vehicles make battles go by much faster. [Feb 2005, p.64]

An excellent combat system buffers a classically unhinged anime story in an action RPG whose ambition outpaces execution.

Worth playing for the atmosphere even though its pace and plot are uneven.

The absence of any damage or collision modeling will rankle some (cars pass right through one another), and the insane difficulty of some of the later stages - exacerbated by pneumatic Hot Wheels driving physics - will drive many players bonkers. [July 2005, p.69]

Knights and Bikes tells a touching, albeit overlong, coming of age story about friendship and grief.

An entertaining, light-hearted point-and-click adventure game full of memorable characters and wholesome British humor.

A sweet treat that recreates the old recipe with higher quality ingredients.

This game isn't one you invest in for its looks: it's a smart and absorbing title that stands out from the "fantasy strategy" pack. [Sept 2003, p.75]

Simplified physics and a few missing parts slow but don't stop this entertaining new Need For Speed excursion. [Jan 2011, p.68]

A short but spectacular surfing game, Sword of the Sea's atmosphere and movement propel it where its simple and repetitive puzzles can't.

Adheres strongly to the Keep It Simple, Stupid principle. By doing so, it manages to meld these different genres where others have failed. [Nov 2002, p.120]

A great customizable fighting system and a cooperative spirit fill the empty spaces in a bleak open world.

One of the best values you'll ever find in a $10 add-on. [Feb 2005, p.72]

Warlock 2 is now the best version of an enjoyably streamlined strategy series. Unfortunately, for owners of the original, it isn't so much better that it's worth wholeheartedly recommending.

An exceptionally pretty if otherwise conventional JRPG with diverting combat. Not an all-timer, but worth a (re)visit.

Dirt Showdown provides thrills while it lasts, but afterwards you're left wanting the deeper experience of its parents. [Sept 2012, p.60]

Portal's systems, if not its clever humor, are put to good use in this fun physics-based puzzle game.

All That Remains sets the stage for some great character development for Clementine, but there's not much payoff in this 90 minute episode.

These concerns aside, Clockstone Software has crafted a magically entertaining spell-casting experience--and an unexpectedly decent game. [Apr 2008, p.67]

Slick platforming, well-designed puzzles, and a huge, connected world, with occasional moments of frustration.

Admirably open levels that reward exploration means there’s high replay value if you’re prepared to overlook the back-tracking.

A smart and sassy point 'n' click adventure that treats its youthful audience with respect. [Holiday 2006, p.114]

Mostly delightful and sometimes punishing, Bad North is a fun alternative to more complex strategy games.

Not the best Total War game but not the worst by a long shot.

A charming traveling artist adventure which uses image capture in interesting ways.

Rebel Galaxy Outlaw lives up to its name among space sims. It’s spirited, good-looking and vibrant, effectively spraying several cans of blue and pink graffiti over the existing space sim template. None of its systems are particularly deep, but skimming along over them can be an exhilarating journey.

Bleed is not as refined as the aforementioned Super Meat Boy, not is its action as satisfying balletic as most bullet shmups. But there's a real spark in it--a spirit that lights the game up every time things slot into place. [April 2013, p.63]