Magicka may have its problems such as certain areas being overlooked, but it does undoubtedly provide an enjoyable experience. Mainly due to its interesting spell system, just proving that not all good games are hyped up months before they arrive.

Many horror games are able to deliver shocks during play, but none does it as well as Dead Space 2. Isaac's inner struggle in the tense setting of "Sprawl" provides an unforgettable atomsphere, making Dead Space 2 one of the most terrifying and unmissable horror games this generation and the benchmark for others to follow.

Many horror games are able to deliver shocks during play, but none does it as well as Dead Space 2. Isaac's inner struggle in the tense setting of "Sprawl" provides an unforgettable atomsphere, making Dead Space 2 one of the most terrifying and unmissable horror games this generation and the benchmark for others to follow.

Many horror games are able to deliver shocks during play, but none does it as well as Dead Space 2. Isaac's inner struggle in the tense setting of "Sprawl" provides an unforgettable atomsphere, making Dead Space 2 one of the most terrifying and unmissable horror games this generation and the benchmark for others to follow.

Battlefield Bad Company 2 - Vietnam transports players to a whole new setting and delivers the same large scale, intense action fans expect, but yet expands the experience by emphasizing team play and skill to make it a truly worthy add-on.

Battlefield Bad Company 2 - Vietnam transports players to a whole new setting and delivers the same large scale, intense action fans expect, but yet expands the experience by emphasizing team play and skill to make it a truly worthy add-on.

Battlefield Bad Company 2 - Vietnam transports players to a whole new setting and delivers the same large scale, intense action fans expect, but yet expands the experience by emphasizing team play and skill to make it a truly worthy add-on.

There is a wonderful minimalism about the whole experience, from start to finish, which includes the relatively abrupt ending after 3-4 hours of play.

Fallen Earth Blood Sports takes a different approach to different MMO's and whilst not everything it does will appeal to core MMO gamers it is more accessible then most almost adjusting to your playing style resulting in an overall engrossing experience and one that doesn't really require the same time commitments as other MMOs.

With any music, the tracks included are what can make or break a game and those featured in Guitar Hero Warriors of Rock really bring out the best, and whilst the new approach taken by Activision and Neversoft doesn't really change the core gameplay much. The music helps make this one of the most compelling Guitar Hero games to date.

With any music, the tracks included are what can make or break a game and those featured in Guitar Hero Warriors of Rock really bring out the best, and whilst the new approach taken by Activision and Neversoft doesn't really change the core gameplay much. The music helps make this one of the most compelling Guitar Hero games to date.

With any music, the tracks included are what can make or break a game and those featured in Guitar Hero Warriors of Rock really bring out the best, and whilst the new approach taken by Activision and Neversoft doesn't really change the core gameplay much. The music helps make this one of the most compelling Guitar Hero games to date.

Although the basic gameplay borrows heavily from other franchises it is still done with such style and panache it is hard to find faults.

Although the basic gameplay borrows heavily from other franchises it is still done with such style and panache it is hard to find faults.

I, like many gamers had high expectations for Gran Turismo 5 but it seems that these have not been meet, mainly by a need to get the game on the shelves in time for the busy Christmas period and whilst GT5 does still provide an excellent driving experience with probably some of the best vehicle performance and handling to grace a videogame, certain aspects simply don't feel like a Gran Turismo game should, which may leave some feeling a little disappointed.

Whilst the level of realism on show in NBA 2K11 may make the game sound a little daunting, what you have to remember is that this is in every way a basketball simulation for fans of the sport rather than a sports title for the casual sports game player.

Whilst the level of realism on show in NBA 2K11 may make the game sound a little daunting, what you have to remember is that this is in every way a basketball simulation for fans of the sport rather than a sports title for the casual sports game player.

It's simple, command system, intricate puzzels and solid combat make it an intriguing offering the only area in which it falters is the boss battles which simple don't provide a big enough challenge, despite their size.

It's simple, command system, intricate puzzels and solid combat make it an intriguing offering the only area in which it falters is the boss battles which simple don't provide a big enough challenge, despite their size.

Assassin's Creed Brotherhood builds on the foundations laid by the previous two games, expanding the gameplay with some very welcome additions, ultimately Brotherhood is by far the best Assassin's Creed game we've seen so far and one of the standout games of the year.

Assassin's Creed Brotherhood builds on the foundations laid by the previous two games, expanding the gameplay with some very welcome additions, ultimately Brotherhood is by far the best Assassin's Creed game we've seen so far and one of the standout games of the year.

Worms 2: Armageddon brings the classic experience that made the franchise so popular to the PlayStation 3. It's in no way a revolutionary title for the series, rather its a retro tribute that still manages to provide an entertaining if somewhat limited experience.

This is a highly recommended, high-octane, action-paced sports game that will definitely satisfy basketball fans but also sports fans in general.

This is a highly recommended, high-octane, action-paced sports game that will definitely satisfy basketball fans but also sports fans in general.

DJ Hero 2 may not make major steps forward, but the additions, refinements and minor tweaks that FreeStyle Games have made really build on the solid foundations that the first game laid down to make DJ Hero 2 an even better experience then before and in my opinion, currently the best music game around.

DJ Hero 2 may not make major steps forward, but the additions, refinements and minor tweaks that FreeStyle Games have made really build on the solid foundations that the first game laid down to make DJ Hero 2 an even better experience then before and in my opinion, currently the best music game around.

DJ Hero 2 may not make major steps forward, but the additions, refinements and minor tweaks that FreeStyle Games have made really build on the solid foundations that the first game laid down to make DJ Hero 2 an even better experience then before and in my opinion, currently the best music game around.

As a game, EA Sports MMA works really rather well, with that important sense that you're continually getting better, and that one more go might be enough to propel you to success. A pleasant surprise.

As a game, EA Sports MMA works really rather well, with that important sense that you're continually getting better, and that one more go might be enough to propel you to success. A pleasant surprise.

I'm not sure any of this really matters- Vanquish is polished and supremely well executed, and everyone should really make the effort to give it a go.

I'm not sure any of this really matters- Vanquish is polished and supremely well executed, and everyone should really make the effort to give it a go.

No matter what Eurocom did, it's Wii version of GoldenEye 007 was never destined to be the iconic title the N64 original was. However, that doesn't mean the game should be dismissed, as it is by far the best shooter available on the Nintendo console and probably the best Wii game I've played to date.

On the face of things, Need for Speed: hot Pursuit seems like a fairly standard racing game. However, the break neck speed the game runs at combined with the prospect of being involved in Burnout style smash-ups and the pressure of the police presence really help make this one of the most engrossing arcade racers in a long time.

On the face of things, Need for Speed: hot Pursuit seems like a fairly standard racing game. However, the break neck speed the game runs at combined with the prospect of being involved in Burnout style smash-ups and the pressure of the police presence really help make this one of the most engrossing arcade racers in a long time.

It's still not MW2, but it's a good try.

It's still not MW2, but it's a good try.

It's still not MW2, but it's a good try.

Despite the gimmicks, shallow story Sonic Colours is one of the stronger Sonic games SEGA has brought us in recent times. Providing gamers with a fantastic looking retro dose of Sonic action thats hard not to like, it's a Sonic game for the "Sonic" generation!

Kinect Sports is a brilliant example of how good a mini-game compilation can be and proves to be an excellent demonstration of how well Kinect can work. It does lack a little depth in some areas but proves to be an excellent title to play with friends.

F1 2010 sees formula One return as a videogame for the first time in three years and for fans the results could not have been better! F1 2010 is not the most playable or authentic F1 game to date but a top racing game that will appeal to any petrol head.

F1 2010 sees formula One return as a videogame for the first time in three years and for fans the results could not have been better! F1 2010 is not the most playable or authentic F1 game to date but a top racing game that will appeal to any petrol head.

F1 2010 sees formula One return as a videogame for the first time in three years and for fans the results could not have been better! F1 2010 is not the most playable or authentic F1 game to date but a top racing game that will appeal to any petrol head.

Fable III pushes the idea of the second game that little bit further, challenging players to prove their worth as a ruler. But not only that gives you a great deal of freedom on how you do it making it an even more engrossing experience that is hard to put down once the story and world of Albion grabs you.

Fallout: New Vegas, looks and plays exactly the same as Fallout 3. But the additions that Obsidian have made push the survival angle even further to provide a much more immersive and authentic experience, and just like its predecessor New Vegas proves to be a role-playing masterpiece.

Fallout: New Vegas, looks and plays exactly the same as Fallout 3. But the additions that Obsidian have made push the survival angle even further to provide a much more immersive and authentic experience, and just like its predecessor New Vegas proves to be a role-playing masterpiece.

Fallout: New Vegas, looks and plays exactly the same as Fallout 3. But the additions that Obsidian have made push the survival angle even further to provide a much more immersive and authentic experience, and just like its predecessor New Vegas proves to be a role-playing masterpiece.

StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty is a traditional real-time strategy which ticks all the right boxes. The deadly and fast thinking A.I will prove to be a challenge to even the most seasoned strategy gamer, whilst the ability to make decision and the extensive multiplayer support will keep you playing for a long time to come.

PES 2011 continues the Pro Evolution Soccer revolution that started with last years instalment and delivers a playing experience that long term fans of the franchise are more accustomed to. With all the improvements it easy to say this is the best PES game in years.

PES 2011 continues the Pro Evolution Soccer revolution that started with last years instalment and delivers a playing experience that long term fans of the franchise are more accustomed to. With all the improvements it easy to say this is the best PES game in years.

Alien Breed: Impact successfully blends the atmosphere of a survival horror title with the action of classic arcade shooters, and despite some small flaws the game comes highly recommended.

Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light serves up a refreshing change to Lara's past adventures with just the right balance of puzzle solving and shooter action.

FIFA 11, has seen some significant improvements over last years version, most of which come in the gameplay mechanics. The focus seems to have been set on creating the most authentic football game ever, and I'm pleased to say that FIFA 11 easily achieves this.

FIFA 11, has seen some significant improvements over last years version, most of which come in the gameplay mechanics. The focus seems to have been set on creating the most authentic football game ever, and I'm pleased to say that FIFA 11 easily achieves this.

Halo: Reach will inevitably become one of the biggest games of the year, if not in gaming history and as Bungie's last Halo it is something of a fitting tribute to what has gone before. It may not deliver the same emotional attachment as playing as the chief, but it does provide an epic if somewhat somber experience that ends where it all began and becomes a must for any Halo fan.

Sports Champions may not be the most innovative game, to demonstrate the abilities of PlayStation Move, but what it does do is show how incredibly well Move can work.

Reloaded features plenty of single player content to hone your skills but the game like its predecessors is at its best in its multiplayer modes and for any fan of the original Reloaded is a must have.

Ultimately the decision to buy the game, will again boil down to whether or not you can live with old player rosters or simply must have the latest line-ups. If like me you find football play confusing then Madden 11 may well be worth a look, others though should probably hold on to their cash and see what next years instalment brings.

Ultimately the decision to buy the game, will again boil down to whether or not you can live with old player rosters or simply must have the latest line-ups. If like me you find football play confusing then Madden 11 may well be worth a look, others though should probably hold on to their cash and see what next years instalment brings.

Crackdown 2 may have a familiar feel to it but it definitely offers a more refined playing experience over the original.

The question is, does this make Doom 2 worth your hard earned? At 800 points, this really depends on how nostalgic you feel.

Blur is a solid fast paced racing game with strong A.I that pushes your driving skills to the maximum. When combined with the games combat element it makes playing Blur an intense and energetic experience that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

Blur is a solid fast paced racing game with strong A.I that pushes your driving skills to the maximum. When combined with the games combat element it makes playing Blur an intense and energetic experience that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

Overall, this is a really fun racer, I can't emphasise enough how much the customisation adds to the game.

Alan Wake may not be the most innovative title in terms of game play, but it does serve up a solid playing experience.

Red Dead takes a familiar recipe, adds a skilful blend of western elements, and the result is something really rather special. Easily the best Wild West game to date.

Red Dead takes a familiar recipe, adds a skilful blend of western elements, and the result is something really rather special. Easily the best Wild West game to date.

Whilst some of the changes in Skate 3 may not be evident at first they are all worthwhile. However, the new skate park editor and co-op team play really make this latest iteration standout and make it a worthwhile acquisition for Skate fans.

Whilst some of the changes in Skate 3 may not be evident at first they are all worthwhile. However, the new skate park editor and co-op team play really make this latest iteration standout and make it a worthwhile acquisition for Skate fans.

Overall, this is a brilliantly executed puzzle game that captures that “just one more” gameplay that makes a truly addictive puzzle game, with simple rules and simple controls that make it playable by the full range of DS owners out there.

If you don't own FIFA than this is a very good football game to test your skills against, but FIFA 10 owners shouldn't instantly dismiss it as it features just enough tweaks to make it worth a look.

If you don't own FIFA than this is a very good football game to test your skills against, but FIFA 10 owners shouldn't instantly dismiss it as it features just enough tweaks to make it worth a look.

It’s bold and brash, and for as long as your interest holds, pretty good fun too.

It’s bold and brash, and for as long as your interest holds, pretty good fun too.

Many games have promised a no limits playing experience, and many have failed to deliver this. However, Just Cause 2 has easily achieved this allowing you to travel to the remotest of locations and play the game in an extremely creative way, which makes it very easy to over look the repetitive nature of the mission.

Many games have promised a no limits playing experience, and many have failed to deliver this. However, Just Cause 2 has easily achieved this allowing you to travel to the remotest of locations and play the game in an extremely creative way, which makes it very easy to over look the repetitive nature of the mission.

This is thoroughly deserving of a place in your DS slot and you’ll probably still be playing this when they actually invent warp drive engines!

The game is epic in scale and brutality and despite offering almost the same experience as past games key refinements and a never slowing pace mean the game provides a heart pounding experience that can't be missed.

Resonance of Fate is a welcome breath of fresh air in the bloated, clichéd JRPG world, Tri-ace have managed to craft a very tactical, hardcore battling system that is far from forgiving, but has some excellently unique ideas.

Resonance of Fate is a welcome breath of fresh air in the bloated, clichéd JRPG world, Tri-ace have managed to craft a very tactical, hardcore battling system that is far from forgiving, but has some excellently unique ideas.

Despite many improvements Battlefield: Bad Company 2 single player campaign still doesn’t serve up a truly great playing experience, its perfectly playable, solid and even quite enjoyable but just lacks something special. However, the games weaknesses in this department like so many other great shooters can be overlooked by an absolutely brilliant multiplayer experience that is simply unmissable, if you like intense online action you could be in worse company, than Bad Company.

Despite many improvements Battlefield: Bad Company 2 single player campaign still doesn’t serve up a truly great playing experience, its perfectly playable, solid and even quite enjoyable but just lacks something special. However, the games weaknesses in this department like so many other great shooters can be overlooked by an absolutely brilliant multiplayer experience that is simply unmissable, if you like intense online action you could be in worse company, than Bad Company.

It serves up a brilliant dose of retro platform action in not just one but four classic games, all of which seem like a perfect fit for the Nintendo DS.

Lips: Party Classics doesn’t really do anything to expand the series in any way, but unlike most music games features a track list which is probably one of the best to grace such a game, of course it’s all down to taste but with something on offer to cover most players music choice the game should prove to be a hit at any party.

The experience and immersion it offers truly make this psychological thriller unmissable.

Napoleon: Total War may have its flaws, but it offers the best of the strategy genre, giving you access to both turn based and real-time play that fit together seamlessly and will keep any armchair general firmly placed in the command seat.

In a time of heavy duty epics, there will always be space for well crafted gaming snacks to fill the moments when you don’t have 2 hours to spare, or just want something less serious to play. And, at 800 points, there certainly isn’t much of a financial disincentive- I strongly suggest you give it a try.

Sure, it won’t be to all tastes, and it seems to do everything it can to put you off from the start, but for those with a taste for original ideas and an eye for careful design, Darwinia+ should be near the top of your download queue.

Whilst Bioshock 2 may feel very similar to the original game, it does expand on the characters and story that were introduced in the original game and once again allows you to create a very customisable playing experience through the use of Plasmids and Tonics.

Whilst Bioshock 2 may feel very similar to the original game, it does expand on the characters and story that were introduced in the original game and once again allows you to create a very customisable playing experience through the use of Plasmids and Tonics.

Whilst Bioshock 2 may feel very similar to the original game, it does expand on the characters and story that were introduced in the original game and once again allows you to create a very customisable playing experience through the use of Plasmids and Tonics.

The game still probably won’t appeal to RPG purists due to it being focused heavily towards the action gamer, but if you liked the original than the sequel is unmissable.

The game still probably won’t appeal to RPG purists due to it being focused heavily towards the action gamer, but if you liked the original than the sequel is unmissable.

MAG may not be the most original shooter to ever grace the online multiplayer scene, but it is very playable providing gamers with massive and intense online matches.

Darksiders may be made up of some fairly standard action game components, but everything it does, it does brilliantly. The game never feels boring and always entertains due to the amount of variation and the epic boss battles cap of a very solid playing experience.

Darksiders may be made up of some fairly standard action game components, but everything it does, it does brilliantly. The game never feels boring and always entertains due to the amount of variation and the epic boss battles cap of a very solid playing experience.

Bayonetta may not be the easiest game to follow or be to everyone’s taste, but is full of original ideas.

Bayonetta may not be the easiest game to follow or be to everyone’s taste, but is full of original ideas.

Overall Divinity II – Ego Draconis, despite some frustrating aspects proves to be an enjoyable playing experience.