A glorified Tamagotchi, but infinitely cuter and more appealing.

The cute Japanese animation belies the tactical intricacy.

Fast-paced, epic and accessible, Microsoft's hack'n'slash sequel will entertain role-playing novices but disappoint veterans looking for more depth and innovation.

The sequel to Australia's favourite game last year will get everyone off the couch. The 12 digital camera games offer more depth, diversity and longevity, with a wide variety of challenging and amusing stages.

The solo campaign lacks the pizazz of other military shooters, but decent multiplayer options prevent it from feeling pilotless.

The solo campaign lacks the pizazz of other military shooters, but decent multiplayer options prevent it from feeling pilotless.

The outrageous characters, puerile gags and crass commentary provide chuckles but the jokes soon become stale. Player reactions after each point also quickly become tiresome.

Armchair generals will find little innovation in this hasty sequel to last year's sadly overlooked World War II strategy game, but Phase Two is another absorbing challenge.

The handling is remarkable, and the fact the tracks are littered with obstacles that bounce and crash realistically makes it all the more fun. Throw in excellent damage modelling and it's plain to see that this game has nailed the core mechanics of an addictive racer perfectly.

The handling is remarkable, and the fact the tracks are littered with obstacles that bounce and crash realistically makes it all the more fun. Throw in excellent damage modelling and it's plain to see that this game has nailed the core mechanics of an addictive racer perfectly.

The handling is remarkable, and the fact the tracks are littered with obstacles that bounce and crash realistically makes it all the more fun. Throw in excellent damage modelling and it's plain to see that this game has nailed the core mechanics of an addictive racer perfectly.

The brilliantly stylised comic-book visuals are extraordinary. However, many will tire of the lengthy loading times and protracted dialogue but the script includes clever pop culture references and political commentary.

Larger levels featuring multiple vehicles are also hugely entertaining, but the best map is a sniper's haven with tight urban streets.

Perfect for a hand-held, Meteos provides an engaging challenge even during brief sessions.

This frustration is compounded by the choppy, stuttering frame rate of the 3D visuals, making the already convoluted controls feel twice as sluggish. Even the menu screens seem slow to respond - a sure sign that the DS is being pushed beyond its capabilities.

The action can get intense, highlighting one of the game's main issues: the unwieldy camera angle that requires constant attention.

The action can get intense, highlighting one of the game's main issues: the unwieldy camera angle that requires constant attention.

The action can get intense, highlighting one of the game's main issues: the unwieldy camera angle that requires constant attention.

Owners of the latest tycoon title can expect a wealth of fresh features from this timely expansion pack.

Playing with dozens of real-life comrades is exhilarating.

No long-term thrills unless you have lots of friends with the same consoles.

The potty humour will not be to everyone's taste but many films are hilariously lampooned.

The freedom to create chaos is terrific but some missions lack variety.

While this rises above its predecessors, its true potential is hampered by restricted game mechanics.

Batman smartly accommodates beginners and never frustrates, but it forgets that much of the pleasure derived from gaming is freedom. Too often you feel you are going through the motions because you can only fight at predetermined positions.

While this rises above its predecessors, its true potential is hampered by restricted game mechanics.

Juiced is instantly approachable but has depth.

Kirby's use of touch-screen technology provides a fresh and engaging game.