If nothing else, Final Fantasy IX is a work of utterly sumptuous beauty, with gorgeous environments, jaw-dropping cut-scenes and detailed characters.

Even though the graphics are almost identical to the last version, everything else has been upgraded enough to make this sequel better than last year and, by default, the best racing game of all time.

This one has it all -- an innovative combat interface, a sweeping story and some of the most gorgeous graphics seen in a PSX RPG. Quite simply, it's a must-buy for any console RPG fanatic.

The tiny characters are vividly illustrated and animated with surprising aplomb, remaining remarkably expressive despite their diminutive stature.

Two parts "Wipeout" and one part "Mario Kart", combined with a feel all its own, make the newest Rollcage a winner across the board.

There are a few weaknesses with the collision detection, but on the whole "Tenchu 2" is gripping, sleek and cool.

A staggering achievement in video gaming -- not only building on its stunning predecessor, but actually eclipsing it.

Combining superb stealth gameplay with outstanding visuals and that crafty British humor, Chicken Run is more than worth crossing the road for.

A fast and fun hockey game that gives you all the options, modes and action you could want from a hockey game.

With just about every conceivable option for a basketball game available, Live 2001 is even better than last year's excellent effort.

It's Number One, baby! Hi, Mom!

Another excellent addition to the series, a great example of pure pinball simulation.

An outstanding title that can do it all.

Dance games will probably never get any better than this.

Perhaps the most gorgeous, addictive and exceptionally challenging rally title ever to hit a home console.

Let's start by clearing up the silly notion that Fear Effect 2 is the games equivalent of a skin flick, shall we?... Creative, deep and addicting, Retro Helix is one of the best action adventures we've ever come across.

More creative minigames, a slightly higher difficulty level, superb level design and some of the best realtime graphics the PlayStation has ever seen all make Year of the Dragon a winner.

Gamers with a penchant for shooting, sneaking and protecting the free world will no doubt find plenty to love in this finely crafted, story-driven actioner.

We predict with confidence that Excitebike 64 will go down in gaming history as the best motorcycle game ever.

There is no masking this one; it is, to mince no more words, a wonder.

Oh yea, oh yea, glory hallelujah -- this is the game we've waited so long for.

This is the type of game that mothers hate.

If you're severely allergic to overly cute-and-cuddly games, take some Dramamine before heading off on Mario's adventure.

While its direct competition is the Dreamcast's "Virtua Tennis," those who pass up this one because of cutesy characters and backgrounds will miss out on one of the best games for the system, hands down.

Madden 2001 passes the competition to become the best gridiron title on the N64.

This new version, in fact, is much the same as the ones of yesteryear. But since that means it still features great gameplay and some of the best multiplayer in existence, you won't hear us complaining.

Everything about the game is fun and everything about the production value says quality.

The best wrestling game ever made and one of the best games ever to appear on the N64.