The decaying splendour of Rapture loses some of its impact due it being your second visit there, but the gameplay is still rock solid. If you enjoyed the first game or like your first-person shooters to have a strong single player campaign then you can’t go wrong with BioShock 2.

Ronimo Games has created a light hearted take on the RTS genre. Swords & Soldiers has enabled a gateway for people who don’t normally venture into the real time strategy genre, to be able to pick up their Wii remote and play.

Rocket Riot is a great little game, one of the best I’ve played on Xbox Live Arcade in quite a while. There’s something about it that almost makes you feel like you’ve played it before, and several elements are reminiscent of other games.

Regardless, Heavy Rain is a fascinating project. It takes away much of the control featured in traditional videogames, yet is no less engaging because of it.

Sam & Max Save the World is undoubtedly one of the funniest games I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing. It’s as easygoing a game as you’re ever going to get, and provides a superb change of pace from the barrage of space-marines-with-guns titles that seem to plague the Xbox 360.

Point Lookout is the most interesting of the Fallout 3 DLC so far. While there’s obvious little change in the general game mechanic, and combat is as it has been throughout, it’s the immersion within the newly created setting that sets Point Lookout aside from the rest of the available expansions.

While combining three different play styles doesn’t result in three times the game, it does equal into a polished 2D experience that’s well worth your time.

As great as it is, there are too many irritations with the combat (and too many unnecessarily drawn-out combat sections) to hail it as a true classic.

As great as it is, there are too many irritations with the combat (and too many unnecessarily drawn-out combat sections) to hail it as a true classic.

It’s fast, colourful and most of all fun, and at the bargain price of 800 MS points (£6.40 in real money) you can’t really go wrong. A must buy for fans of fast paced arcade shooters.

It may be somewhat lacking in old-school racing challenges, and can prove daunting for newbie racers, but the sheer volume of content far overshadows the game’s faults. Until Gran Turismo 5 arrives to challenge the crown, Dirt 2 stands as king of the racing mountain on the PS3.

For £6.99 you’re getting a worthwhile package and there’s a demo for you to see if it’s the right game for you. For most it will be an engaging and addicting, if somewhat rage-inducing later on.

Strategy RPG fans need to have a taste of the Disgaea series. It’s simply one of the best and most engrossing series the genre has to offer and Disgaea 2: Dark Hero Days continues this trend.

Quick fun.

If you like your point and click adventures there really is only one reason why you shouldn’t buy this, and that is if you already bought it on PC. Otherwise this is a great addition to Xbox Live Arcade’s selection of point and click adventures. You won’t find many games funnier than this.

An overall amazingly crafted game made.

Such frustrations aside, Metro 2033 is still a pleasant addition to an otherwise played-out genre and setting.

Such frustrations aside, Metro 2033 is still a pleasant addition to an otherwise played-out genre and setting.

Taking on Mario Kart is a daunting challenge but Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing is a faster alternative that stands up well. A decent kart game on PS3 and Xbox 360 has been long overdue so it’s easy to recommend this.

Taking on Mario Kart is a daunting challenge but Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing is a faster alternative that stands up well. A decent kart game on PS3 and Xbox 360 has been long overdue so it’s easy to recommend this.

Greed Corp has been a welcoming surprise.

If you like strategy RPGs then you owe it to yourself to check this 20+ hour game out. Sakura Wars: So Long, My Love will be one of the freshest experiences you've had in the genre for a while and shouldn't be avoided because of the word "dating sim."

Greed Corp has been a welcoming surprise.

Still, none of this detracts from what Plain Sight really is; a brilliantly-designed and engaging multiplayer game with one of the finest risk/reward systems we've ever seen.

It is a great game, one that is a faithful update to a game that only four years ago attained universal acclaim, but in that time, things have changed and, for better and for worse, Resident Evil 5 has only made baby steps when compared to the giant leaps that its predecessor made, and because of this, won’t be getting near that perfect 10. The issues with A.I and the controls will put off some of the more fickle gamers, but for those of you who part with their £40, like an A.I controlled Sheva to a horde of zombies, you’ll find plenty here to get your teeth into – fans and newcomers alike.

It is a great game, one that is a faithful update to a game that only four years ago attained universal acclaim, but in that time, things have changed and, for better and for worse, Resident Evil 5 has only made baby steps when compared to the giant leaps that its predecessor made, and because of this, won’t be getting near that perfect 10. The issues with A.I and the controls will put off some of the more fickle gamers, but for those of you who part with their £40, like an A.I controlled Sheva to a horde of zombies, you’ll find plenty here to get your teeth into – fans and newcomers alike.

If you like the idea of a sandbox western then this is money well spent. In what other game can you earn a 'dastardly' achievement by saving a damsel in distress, then putting her on the rail road tracks to meet her fate?

If you like the idea of a sandbox western then this is money well spent. In what other game can you earn a ‘dastardly’ achievement by saving a damsel in distress, then putting her on the rail road tracks to meet her fate?

But that doesn't stop LIMBO being an entirely worthwhile experience, drenched in misery, pathos and loneliness. It's also really bloody scary.

Space Ark is a charming hybrid of a handful of classic arcade games. Its combination of score-beating arcade mentality, and devious puzzle elements in the later stages, make it shine against the murky backdrop of lesser XBLA titles.

If you fancy a different take on the racing genre and want something that lives and breathes the arcade experience, then go take yourself for a skinny-dipping session in Hydro Thunder Hurricane, as this is the best Xbox Live Arcade racer yet on the system.

For the most part, it's brilliant. An entirely robust fighting engine has been crafted here, with a whole host of different moves each with their own characteristics and applications.

These hiccups aside, Worms Reloaded is a welcome, engaging and worthwhile title, and a measured balance of old and new.

Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light should please fans of the franchise while they wait for their next big Tomb Raider title. I also believe that this game will allow people who don't normally like Tomb Raider games to be finally able to enjoy a game staring one of the biggest females in gaming history.

So, if you loved the first game and/or intend on buying the next then this is a must have really, and for the measly price of only 400 Microsoft points how can you say no?

With an online multiplayer mode as well as replay features, not to mention several difficulty options that'll make players thankful for a quicksave button, Sam's second outing is for serious gamers everywhere.

All in all Dead Rising 2 does everything a good sequel should, new story, slightly tweaked gameplay, additional game modes, all whilst retaining what made the original so good.

Costing the now seemingly normal 1200 Microsoft Points, Comic Jumper is worth the price alone just for the humorous experience that the game is built around.

Apart from the main story missions, of which there are only three, and the handful of survivors that need your help, there's not a lot else to do apart from slaughter as many zombies and bad guys as you can.

Title arguments aside, there's no doubt Rovio have created one of the best games in the App Store to date.

Whilst the ending is a disappointment, the game gets so many things right it is all too easy to succumb to its charms.

Anybody unfamiliar with fighting games should be warned that, MvC3 will seem enticing – and it'll create no end of smiles when the shell's finally cracked open – but it'll also take a lot of patience, a lot of time and a lot of effort. Spend some time practising in mission mode and get over that hump, and Marvel vs Capcom 3 will provide months, if not years of entertainment.

Few gaming series can steal as many hours from me, no questions asked, quite like Pokémon. I'm currently clocked at 28:37, which was enough to beat the Elite Four but not enough to lose interest. Is this the strongest entry to date? Probably not, nor is it the innovative leap that some gamers expected but you can cogitate all you like; there's a consistently enjoyable adventure to be found here, and that's all that matters.

BG&E HD is an easy game to recommend, regardless of whether or not you played the original release. It's not quite as mind-blowing as it was back in the day – looking back, a lot of good games surfaced in 2003, but originality wasn't too high on the agenda – yet it remains entirely enjoyable and charming throughout, bar a few irritating hovercraft sections.

Chime Super Deluxe is superior to its already brilliant forebear, but a small selection of missed opportunities compels us to drop the score a little.

Despite a few misjudged attempts at creating a realistic atmosphere, and not to mention some ropey A.I., Operation Flashpoint: Red River is a very good videogame, as long as you're willing to accept it on its own terms.

The franchise needed this. It's not remotely original and it occasionally threatens to drown under the weight of its own bluster, but it's also clever, challenging, bewilderingly pretty in places and a ripping good yarn.

The franchise needed this. It's not remotely original and it occasionally threatens to drown under the weight of its own bluster, but it's also clever, challenging, bewilderingly pretty in places and a ripping good yarn.

This is easily the best Lego game to date, and although lacking any huge leaps forward in the gameplay department, still offers a lot of fun for anyone who picks it up.

This is definitely a return to form for for the franchise. It's not as good as the original game, and much as that was what I was hoping for, it's not a disappointment.

All in all it's another winner from the guys at Sega. Enough has been added to make it worth buying, while not messing with the perfection that made it a hit in the arcades over a decade ago. If you want to play tennis on your console it doesn't get any better than this.

Boulder Dash XL is highly recommended for anybody who likes their arcade games with a puzzle element, young or old alike.

Human Revolution is an engaging and compulsive piece of work that'll find itself nestling near the peak of many a top 10 chart. With Mass Effect 3 postponed, this'll be the one bit of interactive escapism that the fella in the Battlestar Galactica shirt can rely on for his kicks this year.

The game is still jolly good fun.

Mercury HG is not exactly a full blown successor in the series, but there's enough here to keep fans happy. And at the ridiculously low price of 400MS points it's definitely worth a try, even if you aren't a fan.

The big question here: Is Off The Record different enough from the original Dead Rising 2 to warrant a purchase? For fans of the franchise the answer has got to be yes. There may not be loads added, but considering the budget price it is worth picking up, if only just to play as Frank West again.

Few shooters exist nowadays to simply play on a gamer's need for visceral entertainment, and Double D proves that there's still a market for mid-school (which would be where I would place gaming in the 90's) shooters, regardless of dimension.

This is an online game to the core, built for the long-term enjoyment of millions of fans looking to keep one game in their console for months to come. In that respect, Battlefield 3 is a resounding success, it's just a shame that it didn't deliver where I hoped it would.

Daytona USA is no doubt a lot of fun for an arcade racing game.

WWE '12 is a step in the right direction. Yuke's implementation of a limb-targeting system adds a satisfyingly-strategic twist to the usual brawl and is accompanied by passable visuals and great sound. Loads and loads of content make this title worth every dollar spent on it.

Saints Row: The Third is the best sandbox game I've played in a long while. There's no realism, no seriousness whatsoever, just completely mental and over-the-top fun. If that's not your thing then this game is definitely not for you. If you like outlandish fun however, give it a try. You won't be disappointed.

It's an awesome game, the only caveat being that it has more hidden fees than most airlines.

In the end, while the core gameplay remains wholly unchanged from the original (not to mention that expert players can still cheese their way through most areas by abusing the wizard's crate-creating spells), the stunning visual details and effects do more to enhance the already-robust mechanics then one might expect.

Here's what it boils down to. It's a Kairosoft game and all of them are easily worthy of ten hours of your time, considering they cost less than five dollars each. Venture Towns doesn't differ greatly to their other titles but has the same addictive gameplay. If you are a newcomer, ask yourself if you would prefer to build a modern-era city, if not have a look at one of the other amazing Kairosoft games.

A refreshing thing about Golden Abyss is that it feels like you are playing Uncharted: Drake's Fortune. After the crazy set-pieces and over the top action in Uncharted 2 and 3, it is nice to go back to playing something that's slower-paced. This time it's more about exploring around the jungle, cliffs and ruins, climbing all over the place and solving puzzles.

Everyone else who hasn't played Crush and is into puzzle games will no doubt enjoy Crush3D. As puzzle games go this one has an exceptional game mechanic that's driven with great level design and enough challenge to make your brain hurt. Marvellous!

I can commend Square-Enix for what they were trying to do with XIII-2. I personally didn't think much of XIII as it abandoned the stuff I liked about the series. XIII-2 brings some of it back, making it a great compelling JRPG, but what it brings most for me is that I found it much more fun to play, and that's a correct thing for any game to do.

All of this amusement with words is priced at a smashing 400 Microsoft Points, a bargain when there has been a noticeable increase of prices recently on XBLA. It's quite hard not to recommend the title, and I can only see people who really loathe games that require a good use of vocabulary hating it. For everyone else, this gaming dictionary is worth your time and you might even learn a few new words during your play – who says learning can't be fun?

If you choose to play this game, which you probably should, play it all the way through to the very end. It's an incredibly ambitious game that sets out to tackle an issue that most other games will often only hint at.

While I am disappointed with the removal of Weapon Master Mode and the terrible story, I simply can't deny that SoulCalibur V is a great fighting game. Adding in the critical metre makes for a deeper game, but it still feels like SoulCalibur. I regard SoulCalibur II as the best in the series, and while SoulCalibur V isn't quite up to that masterpiece, it's still has soul that's burning brightly.

Gamers that are interested in the sport owe it to themselves to get UFC Undisputed 3. Fans will enjoy the improvements, and, simply put, it is the best MMA game out there today. It seems the spare time helped Yuke's concentrate on the feedback and critique that people had complained about. Playing UFC is ruthless, a ton of fun, and you can do it all in the safety of your own home. The undisputed king is still undisputed in the mix martial arts fighting genre.

Making a handheld game that feels every bit as deep and technically impressive as it's home console cousins is no mean feat, but Capcom have pulled it off in style. Revelations really sets the bar high for third and first party developers on the 3DS.

Virtua Tennis 4 World Tour Edition may be a port, and it's only additions may be a few fun, time wasting mini-games, but it shows that the Vita can handle console games without downgrading any feature to fit on a portable device.

Asura's Wrath is a game that goes into a rage and stomps on whatever we call the convention of video games. And you know what? I'm going to join in the stomping too, because the reason I play games is for refreshing engagements that entertain me, and Asura's Wrath hit the spot.

If you already own Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 on a console, the Vita version is going to be hard to recommend unless you are a super fan of the game and want to take that same experience on the go. For people who haven't touched the game and have just picked up a brand spanking new Vita, ask yourself this – are you looking for a console experience and/or a great fighting game to play? If so, Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 is highly recommended. Its move from home consoles to the handheld device is a near perfect one, and Capcom throws in extras for good measures. Let's get ready to fight!

BlazBlue: Continuum Shift Extend is jam packed with content in both single and multiplayer. It's a great fighting game backed with stunning 2D sprites that, once again, the Vita screen does proud. I can safely say it's the first handheld port of the series that feels 1:1 with the console version; plus, if you've never played the game, this is the best place to jump in and be taken away by the world of BlazBlue.

The short time you spend with this game is sure to put a smile on your face.

There is a very enjoyable action game here, wrapped in a well plotted storyline populated with likeable characters and powered by a simple-yet-genius system to make you actually care about who you fight alongside, managing what other shooters struggle to accomplish after entire trilogies.

There's nothing out there on the videogame market today featuring snowboards that comes close to the compelling and joyous fun that SSX provides.

Oil Rush could have been an all graphics, no gameplay showcase for Unigine, but somehow they have managed to make a neat looking and refreshing RTS that makes for a great evening in front of the computer.

Warriors Orochi 3 is currently a representation of the series at its peak. Updated graphics, reduced pop-in, unparalleled content, and a nearly-bursting character roster make for a completely revamped experience that the previous titles couldn't offer.

Ultimate Ninja Storm Generations is sure to be a hit with fans. No doubt they were already going to get this since the track record for the Ultimate Ninja Storm series is a positive one.

Capcom hasn't touched the gameplay, but they've sharpened the look and left it fully intact without cocking it up (looking at you, Konami!) to bring new and old gamers a taste of top quality action games that still reign supreme today. Well, at least two quality action games that is.

If you're looking for an arcade game and fancy blasting stuff in gorgeous spectacular fashion, Sine Mora is something you should check out. It doesn't matter how proficient you are with the genre, as the game will teach you the ways of a shoot-em-up. If you are already knowledgeable about the genre, then ramp up the difficulty and see if you can get yourself through its meaty challenge.

Though the gameplay additions for this year merit a purchase (yes, even if you own last year's version), I truly hope the DLC model for this game doesn't become standard in sports titles.

Anyone who has an itch for some 'girl-on-girl' action, fan or not of the genre, should give Skullgirls a shot, it's a bucket load of fun.

Ys: The Oath in Felghana is a game that derives from the old fashion days of action RPGs.

A gripping story, a dark, gritty comic book look, good voice over work and Telltale's understanding of the atmosphere and tone of The Walking Dead makes this a great package, and I'm excited to see what's in store for coming episodes.

As I mentioned earlier, Legend of Grimrock is a game crafted for a specific audience with the express purpose of providing a pure, faithful recreation of an old genre - though it's appeal isn't necessarily restricted to it.

Fans of bullet hell games are going to enjoy the gameplay mechanics of Akai Katana. It's a great solid shoot-em-up that once you master its in-depth mechanics you'll become captivated by its addictive gameplay. It doesn't do anything to push the genre, but then that was never its intended aim. It also won't do anything for people who don't like these games, but for people who love putting their sharp dodging and shooting skills to the test then Akai Katana will be a welcoming pleasure for you as Cave once again shows why they are the rulers of the genre.

So it's not COD, but whether it carves out its own niche is another matter entirely. Future Soldier emanates the soul of a game that has been lovingly crafted by a team that are devoted to pleasing its long-running community, allaying fears over too much dumbing down of the series to please the COD crowd.

Dirt: Showdown is a different kind of Dirt. It's a more raw and dirty Dirt that takes itself less seriously, but allows for people to have much more fun with its stress-free handling, arcade style gameplay and joyous destruction.

Given the state the Vita is in the moment, there's no denying that Disgaea 3: Absence of Detention is one of the best games to have on the system. It's got bucket loads of content that will give months of gameplay. The game is also charming, pumped with personality, has a likeable cast of characters and a quirkiness that only the Japanese can bring

This game is easily one of the best games on the app store to date, and definitely well worth the asking price.

Well, call me utterly surprised. Spec Ops: The Line showed me that it's more than just a generic shooter. Backing up the solid, if somewhat familiar, gameplay is a fantastic and smart story experience that no other shooter has done for some time.

Between the two Ys games released on Steam this year, I feel that Ys Origin is just that bit better than Ys: The Oath in Felghana. Both are great titles, but Origin builds on the formula with a solid, constructed experience from start to finish that never gets stale, great pacing, multiple and distinctive characters and a fast, in your face combat system. For £12.99 on Steam, you seriously cannot go wrong with checking out this top action RPG.

Sure there are a few minor problems here, but there's no doubt in my mind that Magic: The Gathering – Duels of the Planeswalkers 2013 is the best video game representation of the card game to date, and it's available for such a bargain price that anyone with an interest in trying the game should take my recommendation and jump straight into this digital version. It's a whole ton of fun.

Lego Batman 2: DC Super Heroes is a fantastic achievement for Telltale Games, the Lego games having been yearly (even bi-yearly) released since 2005 have never really moved forward the franchise, until this iteration and it is a fantastical leap.

All in all I loved Tiny and Big. Even though it is a fairly short game story wise, the secrets and sub-objectives add up to what I believe is a suitable asking price of £9.99.

Jaw-dropping presentation and art aside, Dust: An Elysian Tail is a delightful experience that deserves just as much attention from gamers as the designer put in when creating the title.

I highly recommend this game to those PC gamers out there that love those fast-paced, dodge-everything shoot 'em up games, or those who just love music or retro-style games.

Madden NFL 13 is a great game of football. It is also a shining example of a series that could really use a new console to help freshen up the franchise which is starting to feel in need of a pick me up. If you're a die hard Madden fan it probably doesn't matter what I say you have already bought your copy. However for those on the fence I would say this is a great version to jump back into as it has a ton of content, great commentary, and even better action on the field.

Ultimately, Transformers: Fall of Cybertron is a game that doesn't attempt to be anything that it isn't.

Either way, JRPG fans should pick up Tales of Graces F and relish in its throwback to great times when the genre was alive and kicking.

Tekken Tag Tournament 2 is the best, deepest, and most exciting Tekken to be released to date. While it does not particular move the series in a groundbreaking way, it does bring back the fast-paced tag mechanics that haven't been in for twelve years.

If you are willing to let the issue of controls pass, then you will be presented with one exciting and beautiful piece of gaming history, and one of Sega's crown jewels from the Dreamcast era. Fans who want to play Jet Set Radio again will have no problem with this HD release – unless you were expecting a remake. For people who have never played it and want to know what the fuss is about, you might not fully appreciate why this game was so damn cool back in 2000, but at least you get to listen to the brilliant music and take in all the pleasant visuals. That still leaves you with a win-win situation in my book.

This year's game might not be as accessible as it once was, but that is a sacrifice Konami was willing to make, and it paid off well in the end, improving where it matters most – the gameplay.

Testament can't quite make up its mind what type of game it wants to be with the change of camera location and controls, and it has its issues with repetitive sound effects, but the storytelling is top-notch. If you're a fan of mystery games, point-and-click adventures, complicated puzzlers, or you're just a sucker for a good story, then The Testament of Sherlock Holmes is a no-brainer.

As it stands, F1 2012 is the best F1 game I have ever played, and for anyone who is interested in the sport, then you really owe yourselves to check out this great representation of F1.

Overall, Half Minute Hero: Super Mega Neo Climax Ultimate Boy is a very enjoyable game with fantastic characters, a winning formula that never seems to wear out on you and one with a fair amount of replay value. It is an RPG in its most basic form presented to you in a format that is simple and entertaining.

If you're a fan of atmospheric games, espionage or FPS games in general, you should definitely give this one a try.

Ultimately, MVC Origins comes the closest I've seen yet to recreating that arcade feeling you know and love. After playing these games, don't be surprised if you start demanding your opponent's quarters because of how badly you just beat him. There might be other games that copy the speed-based fighter formula, but few have ever and may ever copy this great blend of characters, enjoyment, and playability.

Looking at Assassin's Creed III as a whole, this is a game worthy of your time, engaging on so many levels and a joy to experience.

I'll go on record and say that this is the best kart racer in some time (yes, even better than Mario Kart 7) – now that's saying something.

As confusing as the story may be, as well as some frustrating gameplay mechanics that could have been more finely-tuned, Sine Mora is still a solid shoot 'em up that is perfectly captured on the Vita.

The game is more of the same, with some slight refinements, which would be an issue if the game was not so fun and addicting as it is.

This is a title that gets most of the important parts right when it comes to an action game. It makes you feel like a bad arse, thanks to the cool-looking combat and easy-to-produce combos, but remains deep to allow people to delve into the system and pull off some wild moves.

For what it presents, the game works on so many levels. It is a landmark experience and one that deserves repeated playthroughs, if only to try and make it to the end unscathed. Not perfect by any means, but then is anything ever really perfect? I'd argue not. We are all perfect in our imperfections; by this outlook, so is ZombiU.

The Revolution DLC pack for Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 is the first major downloadable content that Treyarch have released for the widely popular game. Probably the most anticipated additions to the game are a Zombies map and a new Zombies game mode to go along with it.

If you’re looking for a new puzzle-platformer game, look no further - Pangolin is fantastic!

The reboot is a complete success. I enjoyed every second of the single-player campaign, from the huge sequences to the little moments that are integrated perfectly with the gameplay.

I was ready to expect “just another Gears game,” except I was pleasantly surprised by what I got to play. Sure it’s not completely new, but People Can Fly has moved Gears of War in an alternative, more arcade-feeling direction that I can totally get on board with.

EA continues to make the look and feel of the Tiger Woods series distinct from any other franchise, and the marked improvements to the game allow me to confidently state that you’ll enjoy it more than other title in the series.

Iron Galaxy has done no wrong with this beautifully cared for port of the two Darkstalkers games. The only negative is that the use of the arcade version means that Darkstalkers 3 is missing a few characters that appeared in the console version, but apart from that, this is a port full of love and care for the franchise.

DOA5+ is a must-have for PS Vita owners, as it has a lot of content you don’t normally get with other games in the genre – and it’s portable.

It manages to blend rhythmic platforming with the runner genre tremendously well, creating a cocktail of pure enjoyment from start to finish, and is accessible enough that anyone can get into.

Anyone who enjoyed Mortal Kombat 9 is going to enjoy this game, and fans of DC Comics will also like the great representation of heroes and villains. It is a shame that the fatalities that made Mortal Kombat so popular aren’t here, but I think that was one of the problems with Mortal Kombat VS DC Universe. You can’t really show Superman ripping off Batman’s head, so leaving half-arsed fatality attempts out of the game is probably a good thing.

If you want to shoot people in a different way and have a tolerance to learn, then ShootMania is the place to go and do that, and the future can only look brighter once the community floods the game with their creativity.

As a game by itself it kind of feels empty and soulless. Get a mate to join with you and that is forgotten as the fun level rises considerably. It’s not a bad game in single player, but you feel as if it really was meant for humans and not COMs to play with you.

As a game by itself it kind of feels empty and soulless. Get a mate to join with you and that is forgotten as the fun level rises considerably. It’s not a bad game in single player, but you feel as if it really was meant for humans and not COMs to play with you.

A nice evolution of its predecessor rather than been a true revolution of the developers efforts from last gen.

A nice evolution of its predecessor rather than been a true revolution of the developers efforts from last gen.

Whilst the weight of the FFVII hallmark gives the game an undeniable sense of gravity, at times it feels as if it also smothers it.

For the people on the lookout for a new RPG to play and especially the ones who are awaiting Blizzard’s Diablo 3, Sacred 2 might just pass the time for you. It won’t replace your Diablo 3 thirst, but it will give you something to play in the meantime.

An essential play for any fan of George Lucas’ creation. Unfortunately, the gameplay feels a tad repetitive, un-ambitious and never quite lives up to the superb storytelling.

An essential play for any fan of George Lucas’ creation. Unfortunately, the gameplay feels a tad repetitive, un-ambitious and never quite lives up to the superb storytelling.

People who don’t care for graphics will find a game that’s quite fun and somewhat unique in its multiplayer shenanigans. The classes are more complex and objective focus driven then any of the other multiplayer shooters out there.

Devil May Cry 4 despite its best efforts is still a puritan affair. There are many flaws that will put off newcomers, but for those who can tolerate those flaws there is an addictive, enjoyable and rewarding game just waiting to be played.

Devil May Cry 4 despite its best efforts is still a puritan affair. There are many flaws that will put off newcomers, but for those who can tolerate those flaws there is an addictive, enjoyable and rewarding game just waiting to be played.

It’s safe to say that despite its short (and irritating) story mode, repetitive gameplay and terrible indoor sections, Mirror’s Edge is a real kick up the collective arse for the first person genre.

It’s safe to say that despite its short (and irritating) story mode, repetitive gameplay and terrible indoor sections, Mirror’s Edge is a real kick up the collective arse for the first person genre.

It falters in just enough places to make you think before you hand over your money.

If you enjoyed Tiberium Wars then you should take pleasure in what is essentially more of the same. Kane’s Wrath delivers just enough in single player to make it a must buy for fans of the series, or for anyone who enjoys a good skirmish.

In all honesty, the simplification of the controls and hit-miss nature of the superstar mode mean that Sega Superstar Tennis isn’t quite as good as the tennis masterclass that was "Virtua Tennis 3."

In all honesty, the simplification of the controls and hit-miss nature of the superstar mode mean that Sega Superstar Tennis isn’t quite as good as the tennis masterclass that was "Virtua Tennis 3."

When all is said and done Wii Fit is a product that can help you lose weight as part of a calorie controlled diet, so in the end that's what really matters with a purchase of something like this.

In truth, not much of the core gameplay has changed, and it is still a GT game, albeit one that even more perfectly recreates what it’s like to get behind a wheel dream cars. In the same vein, all the vehicles on show have even more personality than ever before.

If you’re willing to dive into its briny unforgiving depths and learn from it, then there is about as much here as there is to get from a turn-based strategy.

It’s clear this game is aimed at the Games Workshop crowd, and those who understand what Blood Bowl is are the ones that will gain the most pleasure from the game. Others will have to fight through the game’s resistance to stop newbies from playing.

History will best remember Red Alert 3 as being a good multiplayer RTS. At worst it’s an embarrassing parody of the 1996 classic. For a game whose ancestor was the original Red Alert, many will feel underwhelmed by the overall package, but you can’t argue against the well-proven mutliplayer gameplay.

There is a warning for fans though, when you play it, make sure you’ve got some happy pills with you, just to be on the safe side.

Soul Bubbles is undoubtedly an interesting game, but I have to admit it was hard to express and portray the appeal of the game in words.

The biggest chunk of praise needs to go to Swordfish, though, who have managed to take what – on paper, at least – is an awful idea and turn it into a decent shooter, even in a very crowded market.

The biggest chunk of praise needs to go to Swordfish, though, who have managed to take what – on paper, at least – is an awful idea and turn it into a decent shooter, even in a very crowded market.

It’s actually quite good in multiplayer and if you enjoy setting records then the same can be said for the competition side of it.

It’s actually quite good in multiplayer and if you enjoy setting records then the same can be said for the competition side of it.

Much of the story is kept until the end, with the rest mostly speculation from characters as to what is really going on, forcing you to play through to get more dirt on the mystery as it builds up.

Ultimately, the biggest problem with RotTK also happens to be its biggest strength. It makes no attempt to open itself up to newcomers, instead choosing to continue to revel in its deep historical accuracy.

It strikes me as ironic that the game is named Overlord when really the minions are the stars of the show.

Star Ocean: The Last Hope brings appealing sci-fi imagery to the Xbox 360 catalogue of RPGs. It’s not the best JRPG on the system, but what it does is give players a game with an addictive battle system.

In contrast to last year’s effort, none of the game’s high points are as memorable, and in addition, quite few gunfights start to border on routine as you get further into the game. For that reason, combined with the selection of other erratic blemishes named above, World at War is a notably less appealing game.

In contrast to last year’s effort, none of the game’s high points are as memorable, and in addition, quite few gunfights start to border on routine as you get further into the game. For that reason, combined with the selection of other erratic blemishes named above, World at War is a notably less appealing game.

Of course, it won’t make cooking any more entertaining if you already find it a bit of a chore, but if you just want to be entertained you could also sit back a look at Gordon Ramsey curse his way through an episode of The F Word.

Ratchet and Clank: A Quest for Booty feels like a long side quest away from the events of Tools Of Destruction it therefore avoids any real spoilers to the main series story.

This game isn’t fantastic, but certainly will hold your attention for a while, through a mixture of compulsive gameplay, and energetic atmosphere brought on by the games fantastically manic tunes. You can’t go far wrong if you fancy a multiplayer game.

Considering the initial shock of a Sonic RPG, and the potential, I think that SC could’ve been a bit better in most aspects but TDB definitely lays solid foundations for the probable sequel. It really is an RPG but delivered Sonic style; fast and fun.

If you end up buying The Last Guy you’ll probably end up liking it to some extent, and if you can try and pace yourself, and don’t rush through the game, you’ll enjoy it even more.

It falters in just enough places to make you think before you hand over your money.

It falters in just enough places to make you think before you hand over your money.

There’s a lot to like, and equally as much to dislike.

The sheer amount of things to do is a key factor that prevents it falling into the trap of the same old routines other space games have fallen into. X3 is deep, complex, insanely huge, annoyingly but yet rewarding.

It’s not going make your mind EXPLODE, but it’s a really nice little game with plenty of charm and a clarity of design that you rarely see these days - especially on the DS, stuffed full of shovelware as it is.

Boing! Docomodake is a difficult game to gauge. At times it can be painfully frustrating - with some puzzles requiring a complete level-restart if failed initially – and it’s criminal just how short it is. But on the contrary, Boing! is filled with intuitive puzzles, a genuinely creative control scheme, and some truly amusing moments.

Give the developers some money for their hard work. It’s just kind of sad that such a great game makes you feel like such a mug for actually paying for it.

A combination of cooperative gameplay and ferocious versus modes keeps things fresh in the game’s online multiplayer.

Whether it’s the cute aliens, the bright and impressive visuals, or the moments of humour, it’s hard to criticise the game too much.

The best thing about Bound in Blood is that it feels different from all the modern first person shooters on the market.

The best thing about Bound in Blood is that it feels different from all the modern first person shooters on the market.

The best thing about Bound in Blood is that it feels different from all the modern first person shooters on the market.

It’s far from perfect but it supplies gamers with a decent action experience with an awesome QTE mechanic to show off scenes that are totally outrageous, but so memorable.

At the very least, the game's main theme is one of the most catchy heard in years, that has to be worth a few plaudits. [JPN Import]

Anybody actually paying attention to the narrative will appreciate the gasp-inducing ending, and anybody under twelve will appreciate the abundance of inappropriate costumes that come included. For everyone else it’s a good, if not quite great platformer, that complements the main game while not exactly revolutionising it.

If you are a Wii owner looking for something a bit different, and incidentally if you’re a twenty five year old man who misses the days he could sit in his pants watching Going Live, then A Boy And His Blob is still definitely worth a look-in.

The best part of this adventure is the characters, with Ceville, Ambrosius, the undead pirate and the lisping demon all possessing the potential for further development. I would welcome them back in a slightly more humourus and random comedic sequel.

In the end Phantasy Star Portable will only appeal to people who can play it with friends. As a single player game is feels rather mediocre as you traverse through the dreary story.

Selecting whether you play as the depressed emo girl or the teenage slut might add some replayability, but only if you enjoy the game’s generally sluggish and strange presentation. If it sounds like your cup of tea, you need only shell out ten dollars to walk The Path.

Bonsai Barber stands out as one of the better WiiWare titles available to buy, but it isn’t an absolute must-have. Cute visuals and a quirky style accompany this entertaining if somewhat shallow game.

It has its flaws, and is by no means the perfect game, but it is the perfect Wolverine-simulator, at least for the time being.

It has its flaws, and is by no means the perfect game, but it is the perfect Wolverine-simulator, at least for the time being.

The bizarre music and strange noises and beats do take away from the experience somewhat, but it’s still an enjoyable game.

All in all there’s a lot of play here, although it is most fun playing with friends.

It’s a pleasant romp through a funky world that might be a touch too exotic for narrow-minded audiences, but the gameplay is entirely accessible. For a fresh world to vent your frustrations and fulfill your violent fantasies in, Zeno Clash is the way to go.

The budget price and quaint visual style makes Cogs as addictive and satisfying as the old-school toys it references. It'll certainly last longer than a ball-in-a-cup.

Not exactly groundbreaking, but enjoyable none-the-less, rarely can a game be summarised with the terms 'camp' and 'ultra-violent', yet Yakuza 3 manages to pull it off with ease.

If you're one of the many who've grown tired of spikey blonde protagonists and thirty hour corridors, then maybe it's time you let Nier convince you that there is room for change.

If you're one of the many who've grown tired of spikey blonde protagonists and thirty hour corridors, then maybe it's time you let Nier convince you that there is room for change.

The package as a whole isn’t as polished and deep as NHL 10, but its accessibility and fun factor certainly counts for something. It looks great too, and with online modes that extend the challenge and lifespan of the game, NHL 2K10 has come as close as its ever done to matching EA’s game.

The package as a whole isn’t as polished and deep as NHL 10, but its accessibility and fun factor certainly counts for something. It looks great too, and with online modes that extend the challenge and lifespan of the game, NHL 2K10 has come as close as its ever done to matching EA’s game.

It’s worth it just to spend a little more time on Mars with some bombs and some high powered lasers, just don’t expect anything drastically new.

It’s worth it just to spend a little more time on Mars with some bombs and some high powered lasers, just don’t expect anything drastically new.

Incidentally, if they bring this game out for the Xbox 360 like they keep saying they want to, it'll probably be amazing. So I'll see you on there… in two years. Good-day!

If you are in to the clubbing scene at all, or have any aspirations towards being a DJ you’ll definitely find this game worth picking up.

It's a good game and the zero gravity gameplay is innovative; Shattered Horizon just lacks that extra oomph of content – be it more weapons, character classes, RPG style upgrades or even vehicle sections - to improve longevity.

So, if like me you’re a little weary of current shooters, or just fancy a bit of something retro then Serious Sam HD should be right up your alley. Weighing in at 1200 MS points, roughly a tenner, it’s not going to break the bank either. There’s loads of fun to be had here, but you better get used to dying a lot, but it’s all worth it to save the world.

Strikeforce is a step in the right direction for the franchise. It’s the much needed change that the series was crying out for. It’s just shame the console version is a port of the PSP game.

Strikeforce is a step in the right direction for the franchise. It’s the much needed change that the series was crying out for. It’s just shame the console version is a port of the PSP game.

The issue is not with the game's creators, who haven't made a bad game at all. It's with the community that they have catered for with it. Words like 'PWNING' popping up when you're on a killing spree, however tongue and cheek, still add to the vibe that these overly-aggressive, humiliating or just downright internetty behaviours are encouraged.

Despite its faults, it is definitely worth gathering some friends to play it with at least once, and you can figure out how you feel about it from there.