A few gameplay issues and graphical shortcomings keep the game from being an A+ stellar title, but hardcore Simpsons fans will be more than happy with this baby.

The multitude of careers and social interactions provide plenty of longevity, and the new format of the two player split-screen play is a nice touch.

Whether or not players enjoy the new look and feel the title took, it went for it all the way, and succeeded in mixing classic SSX gameplay with a new style. I applaud this direction.

Overall I'm not just impressed with the game as it's presented, but I'm also impressed knowing that one guy did pretty much all of it. That blows me away as I'm sure it will do to you too when you get a true feeling of the style, the story, the over-the-top action and replayability that lies beyond the opening menu.

With an excellent versus play, an addictive Puzzle mode, and a strategic chess mode, MK: Deception is chock full of solid gameplay. Add to this a decent campaign mode which is a necessity for cool unlocks, and you have yourself a certified console fighting classic.

Every once in a while, a game comes along that really stands out in its genre, and Poker Smash is one of those games. By taking a generic formula and giving it a Vegas-like spin, Void Star Creations has put together a truly unique and entertaining experience that earns it a spot right next to the big boys in the puzzle genre.

While the game lacks the fast pace and wild action of its NBA brethren, the game is tailor made for the more technically minded sports fans. Strong gameplay and deep customization helps players to make the total college-sports experience a reflection of their individual tastes.

In Midnight Club: Los Angeles’s case, the engine behind its essence—Rage—is good enough to make this title a standout, even though it isn’t particularly packed with genre-inspiring features. While this may be a letdown for those early-adopting, cutting-edge types, those who rank “go” above the “show” in the list of their racing-game prerequisites will consider Midnight Club: Los Angeles a real cream puff.

One of the best reasons for buying a game like Catan on XBLA—which comes with a cost of 800 Microsoft Points or about $10—is that you don’t have to know the rules and procedures that well.

MX Unleashed, however, has a lot more tracks available for those who don’t want to make their own. The nod for gameplay goes to MX Unleashed as the controls are more responsive and the overall play is more fun.

With a bit more time and experience, the NBA 2K series will be an unstoppable, next-generation force that cannot be contained, even with the industry’s best D’ing up.

The co-op mode shows flashes of brilliance, and the number of options provided for online play is astounding. The core game plays much like any other FPS – a VERY pretty one at that.

Sure, there are issue like the A.I., clipping, and sketchy hit detection, but for the most part, this game speaks to the legions of WWE fans out there- loud and clear.

Don’t let the blood and internal organs fool you: Ninja Gaiden II takes even greater skill to play efficiently than its predecessors.

There is still a bit of linear gameplay in the single player mode which could be a bit more in depth and dynamic, but as it is, blowing stuff up has never been more fun.

I recommend that former FIFA fans that have been turned off by the recent versions to check 2005 out - you may be surprised at how many gameplay and graphical elements that EA Canada nailed into the upper corner of the goal.

With 300 single-player stages there is plenty of monkey rolling gameplay in store, however, we could do without the lackluster story. Despite its flaws, Super Monkey Ball Deluxe is as addictive as the likes of "Tetris" and "Lemmings" and worth a rental at the very least.

A really pure gaming experience that will undoubtedly split gamers on the issue. Some will hate the controls, others will love them. Some will be bored with the game’s repetition, others will be enthralled by it. Some will love the voice acting, others will be on the right side of that issue. No matter. Prince of Persia is a gorgeous piece of work that may just pull more people into gaming by being as fun and easy as it is beautiful.

The massive update of maps will draw any Live gamers to Island Thunder for sure. Add to that the fact that there will be downloadable maps and single player missions and this game is easily worth the discounted price tag.

The single player game modes have a fairly decent amount of depth to them, but this game really shines in multiplayer. The computer AI, even at the harder difficulty levels, provides only a moderate challenge for heavy duty football gamers.

Without overly dumbing down the modern military sim fighter, Namco Bandai has managed to create a very accessible flying game that has all of the presentation bells and whistles of its big boy cousins.

Sure, the content isn’t exactly tailor made for an afterschool special, but it’s a great exaggeration of the hijinks and hard times that just about anyone can relate to. And thanks to Rockstar’s decision to give fans continuing education by expanding the game’s content, there’s plenty in place to please both Bullworth freshmen and alumni alike.

The multiplayer maps are gorgeous but tend to be too large for small team battles. Ghost Recon 2 is one of the best shooters of 2004 and a worthy successor to the previous games in the series.

The game is virtually bursting at the seams with content, and it’s got near flawless controls for both newcomers and hardcore fighters alike.

It’s just plain fun, with the presentation adding to the entertainment.

If you are not intrigued by intense storylines and great original gameplay at least go give this baby a rent, you will not be disappointed.

While the subject matter of pirates is intriguing, many gamers will be instantly turned off by the basic graphics, dated audio track, and strategy-heavy gameplay.

The environments alone almost justify the cost of admission! In this massive world the sound and presentation mix to keep you engaged throughout the storyline and leave you wanting more at the end. This is definitely a game to check out.