Dear Philos: I know we want "hard," but I don't think we asked for "cheap." I guess we're just old-fashioned that way. [Dec 2003, p.97]

Makes me wish more games featured adult-themed language and situations, because in this case, they actually add to the gritty feel and setting we've been delivered. [Dec 2003, p.107]

A promising concept that needs better graphics, camera controls, and AI to really shine. [Feb 2004, p.70]

TH4 is so packed with content and character that even a non-skater should have a wicked time when armed with a solid gamepad. [Dec 2003, p.109]

An admirable chess experience, with enough lessons to keep you occupied for ages. [Nov 2003, p.134]

I wouldn't strongly recommend this game to vets, but I might give a half-hearted recommendation to first-timers. [Nov 2003, p.132]

Sadly, the one thing that's fairly consistent is the opposing AI's late-game heroics. [Dec 2003, p.114]

Running around 3D urban locales such as a mall or a corporate office building in the midst of a full-blow riot is sure to hook a few people, but flat gameplay and god-awful controls will make them turn away in disgust. [Dec 2003, p.132]

A monumental achievement in game design...It is the Mount Everest, the Beethoven's Ninth, and Moby Dick of PC Wargames, and it absolutely qualifies as a genuine work of art. [Nov 2003, p.106]

Not a sexy action shooter, but an intricate, richly detailed game of serious turn-based strategy. But hex-heads and "MechWarrior" aficionados will find lots here to suck them in. [Nov 2003, p.122]

For $20, this European import is quite a steal, and should provide plenty of hours of heated gameplay. [Nov 2003, p.112]

Weather effects have been vastly upgraded, with much more varied and convicing cloud layers, snow, and lightning, and even improved rain effects. [Oct 2003, p.120]

SM's grandest new feature is its random map generator. It works, it's terrific, and as much as I wish I could grouse about it so I don't come off as a fanboy, I can't. [Oct 2003, p.100]

Hardcore adventurers will undoubtedly seek out Dark Fall, if only for the atmospheric journey. No surprise there - nor is there any in the game. [Nov 2003, p.119]

While no single aspect of Nexagon is truly unique, the total package is a winner - surprisingly fun and addictive. [Nov 2003, p.110]

With no career options to choose from - and only 30 unconnected missions up for grabs in the single-player menu - the entire Operation Iraqi Freedom experience is a remarkably fleeting and sterile exercise for experienced simmers. [Oct 2003, p.114]

This game should really be called "The Rather Mediocre Escape." [Nov 2003, p.116]

As you're chucking the box, notice how wonderful it feels to be able to aim properly; and as it hits the trash can with a satisfying clunk, you can be assured that you've just experienced the height of its realism. [Nov 2003, p.117]

Galaxies has a few annoying aspects that seem endemic to MMORPGs - with tedious cross-country treks and features that are broken upon initial release - but it still delivers a lot of varied and innovative gameplay. [Oct 2003, p.92]

My nit-picking gripes aside, the sheer amount of gaming to be found here is dizzying. [Dec 2003, p.78]

For pirate lovers and diehard roleplaying fans only - a pass for everyone else. [Oct 2003, p.118]

Mistmare has some truly wondrous landscapes and jaw-dropping monsters and such, thanks in no small part to the LithTech engine, but it just came out of the oven too early. [Nov 2003, p.118]

A well-designed and entertaining street racer - "Midtown Madness" on steroids. [Oct 2003, p.102]

Infuriating, buggy, and ultimately boring. [Oct 2003, p.96]

One of the more enjoyable PC arcade racers to come along in years. [July 2003, p.84]

Innovative features lift this game above mediocrity - but not by much. [Oct 2003, p.108]

Sound fun? It is, though monotony may set in for some about halfway through. There just aren't enough roads or storylines to keep the journey captivating over the long haul. [Nov 2003, p.112]

Unlike other MMORPG's with admittedly better graphics, Endless Ages throws so much variety into the overall experience that there's rarely a dull moment. [Aug 2003, p.69]