Gamer.nl's Scores

  • Games
For 1,456 reviews, this publication has graded:
  • 30% higher than the average critic
  • 5% same as the average critic
  • 65% lower than the average critic
On average, this publication grades 3.9 points lower than other critics. (0-100 point scale)
Average Game review score: 69
Highest review score:
Critic Score 100
Lowest review score:
Score distribution:
1,456 game reviews
    • Metascore: 98
    • Critic Score 100
    GTA IV is the best action game ever. The game has beautiful details, nice situations, extrodinary gameplay, sharp humor and great graphics. There are certainly a few minor negatives about the game, but the positive points are just too much. We have one piece of advice: Buy!
    • Metascore: 98
    • Critic Score 100
    GTA IV is the best action game ever. The game has beautiful details, nice situations, extrodinary gameplay, sharp humor and great graphics. There are certainly a few minor negatives about the game, but the positive points are just too much. We have one piece of advice: Buy!
    • Metascore: 93
    • Critic Score 100
    Although Super Smash Bros. Brawl will feel familiar to people who have played the game before, it's a lot harder to play this time.
    • Metascore: 93
    • Critic Score 100
    Fallout 3 will probably end up being one of the best games of 2008 and, in it's one unique way, a worthy sequel in the Fallout series. Bethesda takes essential gameplay elements from the original Fallout games and gives these elements a new twist. The Fallout 3 gameplay is perfectly executed and Capital Wasteland offers a fantastic world in which you'll find plenty to discover, even after spending dozens of hours in this world. Gamers, hide in your bombshelter and don't resurface before you've played Fallout 3.
    • Metascore: 90
    • Critic Score 100
    We can talk hours and hours about it, but it won't change the fact that Grand Theft Auto IV is a very good game. The brand new video editor will offer tons and tons of extra gameplay and makes up for a lot of the waiting time the PC-gamers had to endure. Gamers that still aren't satisfied can wait for the hundreds or so mods that will appear after the release. And with that enough gaming material to last at least until Grand Theft Auto V shows up.
    • Metascore: 94
    • Critic Score 100
    Capcom has no trouble in fulfilling the expectation that was hovering over the new installment of the Street Fighter franchise. It's going to be a tough job for the developer to improve this superb version of Street Fighter. The only thing that we can do now is to make a deep bow for Capcom and Street Fighter IV. Currently the best fighting game there is.
    • Metascore: 95
    • Critic Score 100
    Red Dead Redemption has a beautiful virtual world with an enormous amount of things to do, an exciting story and fantastic action. The game not only shows a world of the past, but also makes the player reflect the times we live in now. An exceptional achievement for a game.
    • Metascore: 95
    • Critic Score 100
    Red Dead Redemption has a beautiful virtual world with an enormous amount of things to do, an exciting story and fantastic action. The game not only shows a world of the past, but also makes the player reflect the times we live in now. An exceptional achievement for a game.
    • Metascore: 96
    • Critic Score 100
    No game is perfect. But Among Thieves does so many things incredibly well, that any miniscule faults that may have crept in the final game don't matter at all. Gamers that buy Uncharted 2 will be breathless after playing through one of the most incredible and intense adventures ever. The dialogue and the humour are the icing on the cake.
    • Metascore: 94
    • Critic Score 100
    The singleplayer knows no competition and the multiplayer and brilliant Special Ops-mode make Modern Warfare 2 a phenomenal package. There are truly some scenes in the game that can affect the way you think and feel. After five games, the series seems to have found its high mark. One of the best shooters ever.
    • Metascore: 94
    • Critic Score 100
    The singleplayer knows no competition and the multiplayer and brilliant Special Ops-mode make Modern Warfare 2 a phenomenal package. There are truly some scenes in the game that can affect the way you think and feel. After five games, the series seems to have found its high mark. One of the best shooters ever.
    • Metascore: 91
    • Critic Score 100
    We thought Street Fighter IV was it. We thought it couldn’t get any better. We thought wrong. The greatest fighting game ever just got better, and kicks its former self’s ass. It feels complete, and the fact that we weren’t really missing anything last time around says it all. Farmer Capcom has gotten better at milking the Street Fighter cow, adding nutrients and flavor to an already delicious dairy product. Yes Capcom, we forgive you…this time.
    • Metascore: 92
    • Critic Score 100
    We thought Street Fighter IV was it. We thought it couldn’t get any better. We thought wrong. The greatest fighting game ever just got better, and kicks its former self’s ass. It feels complete, and the fact that we weren’t really missing anything last time around says it all. Farmer Capcom has gotten better at milking the Street Fighter cow, adding nutrients and flavor to an already delicious dairy product. Yes Capcom, we forgive you…this time.
    • Metascore: 97
    • Critic Score 100
    Simply put, Super Mario Galaxy 2 is a better game than the original. Each galaxy looks unique and offers an unforgettable experience with a plethora of secrets waiting to be found. New gameplay elements are rapidly introduced and will keep you interested throughout the entire game. The game is challenging but never frustrating. Mario and his friends once again take you on a journey through space and provide so much entertainment, you'll immediately start playing again after you finish it.
    • Metascore: 90
    • Critic Score 100
    Guild Wars 2 does what MMOs have been promising for years: it provides players with a dynamic virtual world filled with discovery, adventure and cooperation. The game combines the unpredictability of hardcore sandbox games like EVE and Asheron's Call with the accessibility and fun of World of Warcraft. After years of EverQuest clones the genre finally makes a great leap forward.
    • Metascore: 94
    • Critic Score 100
    BioShock: Infinite isn’t just one of the best games of 2013, but also of the twenty-first century. The themes and storytelling are unparalleled and are approached from multiple points of view, without being at the expense of the first-person shooter-action. Besides, BioShock: Infinite is a title that gamers really needed after all these years.
    • Metascore: 90
    • Critic Score 95
    Human Revolution might not be as revolutionary as the original was back when it came out, but the main elements of this series is still as exciting and downright unique as it was ten years ago. This is how a game that wants to tell a story should be: interactive and focussed. On top of that, Human Revolution takes place in one of the best virtual worlds ever. Some technical hiccups don't get in the way of this impressive experience.
    • Metascore: 92
    • Critic Score 95
    A Japanese RPG that is challenging and refreshing enough for players that have seen all the other examples in the genre, while being easy on newcomers. The fantastic, enormous gameworld makes this an absolute classic on Wii and one of the best RPG's of the last ten years.
    • Metascore: 94
    • Critic Score 95
    Arkham City is better than its predecessor in every way. The gameworld, the move set and the story have all grown. The numerous subplots and villains that take the stage make this game almost too much of a good thing.
    • Metascore: 96
    • Critic Score 95
    Skyrim is Bethesda's magnum opus. The game combines the best elements from Morrowind, Oblivion and Fallout 3 and makes it an outstanding adventure. The quality and quantity on offer here is incredible.
    • Metascore: 93
    • Critic Score 95
    Mass Effect 3 is an emotional rollercoaster ride with lots of tension and moving moments. The threat of the Reapers make every decision a hard one and your relationship with other characters will be tested. This, in combination with tight gameplay, makes this the complete experience.
    • Metascore: 87
    • Critic Score 95
    You'll curse Spelunky, you'll want to throw your controller through the TV out of anger, but there is something about it that will pull you back in, time and time again. The game challenges you to constantly make choices and set new priorities, the level design is fantastic and makes for a new experience every time, but most of all: skill and perseverance get rewarded. Spelunky might seem a little bit unfair at times, but with every death it teaches you a lesson. Lose yourself in the wondrous, underground world and emerge as a better player.
    • Metascore: 88
    • Critic Score 95
    Torchlight 2 is a giant leap forward when comparing it to its predecessor. Huge improvements have been made to every aspect of it, but it doesn't innovate within the genre. Still, Torchlight 2 manages to present itself as the best loot game of the year, especially considering its price tag.
    • Metascore: 85
    • Critic Score 95
    Assassin's Creed 3 will be the best game of the year for many gamers. It's not the prettiest game, it doesn't tell the best story and doesn't have the most brilliant gameplay. But it portrays a world we can lose ourselves in like no other, which is filled to the brim with interesting characters and content, and it hardly ever bores.
    • Metascore: 92
    • Critic Score 95
    Fire Emblem: Awakening honors its predecessors and manages to put itself on the same level. With a series, that is according to many, the best tactical turn-based strategy-series ever, we can’t imagine a better compliment to give it. No, you know what, it’s the best in the series. Not in the least because a portable game hardly ever has as much personality and involvement as Awakening.
    • Metascore: 94
    • Critic Score 90
    In case you didn't get it: Metal Gear Solid 4 is THE reason to buy a PlayStation 3!
    • Metascore: 87
    • Critic Score 90
    Sins of a Solar Empire gives a twist to the RTS-genre. While the game isn’t very accessible for everyone, RTS-fans will really play the game until the early hours of the morning. The Phase-lines ensure the deep tactical but relax gameplay. Already one of the best RTS-games of the year.
    • Metascore: 89
    • Critic Score 90
    Even people who dislike zombies will probably change their minds after playing Left 4 Dead. The game offers much more than just killing zombies by the hundred. It offers lots and lots of gameplay with an unique combination of a tactical shooter with good old fashioned humour.
    • Metascore: 76
    • Critic Score 90
    "Aion is an extraordinary MMORPG. Both the PvPvE-concept and presentation of the game are fantastic. Story-wise and gameplay-wise the game feels finished. Combined with the hundred hours that it will take to play through the game, Aion: The Tower of Eternity is an unforgettable experience which every MMORPG player should experience.
    • Metascore: 91
    • Critic Score 90
    God of War: Chains of Olympus will probably not bring much change to the franchise. This games reaches a high level when it comes to PSP standards. Although the game has a weak storyline and a few bugs, it feels glorious to play.
    • Metascore: 95
    • Critic Score 90
    LittleBigPlanet is one of the best and original games we've ever played. The gameplay is perfect in it's simplicity, because the game can be played with only a few buttons. And thanks to the brilliantly designed levels the simple gameplay never gets dull but instead stays fun and fresh. For both the casual and core gamer LittleBigPlanet will be an irresistible game. You'll even get a great editor, free of charge, Offering you tons and tons of extra things to do and to discover. You probably won't play a better game than LittleBigPlanet this year.
    • Metascore: 87
    • Critic Score 90
    Hello Nintendo!! Finally a good game on the Nintendo Wii and you don't give it any attention. Zack & Wiki rocks and we want more!
    • Metascore: 85
    • Critic Score 90
    Soul Calibur IV just oozes quality. It is a very polished game that is crammed with a variety of different play modes. The game is an absolute must-have for every fan of the genre. Because it is easy to pick up and play, Soul Calibur IV is also suited for those unfamiliar with these games.
    • Metascore: 85
    • Critic Score 90
    Soul Calibur IV just oozes quality. It is a very polished game that is crammed with a variety of different play modes. The game is an absolute must-have for every fan of the genre. Because it is easy to pick up and play, Soul Calibur IV is also suited for those unfamiliar with these games.
    • Metascore: 91
    • Critic Score 90
    Killzone II is without a doubt a diamond in Sony's line-up and already a game that has GOTY written all over it. Its feels more than refreshing to play a sci-fi shooter with realistic gameplay. In single player you'll be dazzled with details, a strong AI and beautifull graphics. And even though it's all going to be over in a blink of an eye, it gives you enough satisfaction to last a whole lot longer. As a delicious dessert you'll get the multiplayer, which is so addictive that it almost turns into the most important part of the game. Killzone II is something to be proud of as a Dutchman.
    • Metascore: 79
    • Critic Score 90
    Mirror's Edge is a unique experience. The controls work great and the visuals and music fit perfectly with the rest of the game. That such a unique concept contains a few flaws, like the short story mode and some frustrating gameplay moments, isn't a shame in the least. This experiment is a succes!
    • Metascore: 79
    • Critic Score 90
    Mirror's Edge is a unique experience. The controls work great and the visuals and music fit perfectly with the rest of the game. That such a unique concept contains a few flaws, like the short story mode and some frustrating gameplay moments, isn't a shame in the least. This experiment is a succes!
    • Metascore: 81
    • Critic Score 90
    Console ports are usually a waste of time, but that's certainly not the case with Mirror's Edge. In fact, the PC version of the game offers even more than its console counterparts. Are you looking for something original and innovative to play on your PC and you aren't afraid of heights? Just try Mirror's Edge.
    • Metascore: 91
    • Critic Score 90
    With Wrath of the Lich King Blizzard shows the world how a MMORPG should look like. The add-on offers enough for both the casual and the hardcore gamer and is a must for every World of Warcraft player. We predict that it's gonna be a long and cold winter.
    • Metascore: 90
    • Critic Score 90
    Are you still here? Go get Empire: Total War if you have just the slightest interest in an RTS game. This game offers everything a RTS fan wants. We know that the game has its share of flaws, but there is so much this game does right, that you can easily look past the frustration. This is what a strategy game should look like.
    • Metascore: 86
    • Critic Score 90
    Patapon steals your heart. Even if you don't like rhythm, tactics or role playing in general. The combination of different factors makes this game a totally new genre, which gives an unique experience. Although the game looks childish with their one-eye-warriors, it's actually quite a challenge to play.
    • Metascore: 82
    • Critic Score 90
    Rainbow Six: Vegas 2 is just like a hot dog. It doesn't have to change in order to be tasty. Ubisoft has put on a great sauce with the A.C.E.S.-system, objects you can shoot through, and a great cooperative mode. And believe us it will be the best hot dog you ever tasted.
    • Metascore: 89
    • Critic Score 90
    As fans know, you can’t judge Rez just upon its gameplay premises. That would be the same as reducing the Nightwatch by Rembrandt to the type of paint and the material of the canvas. Instead, the game formula is onlya means to convey something that is more than a typical game experience.
    • Metascore: 90
    • Critic Score 90
    Without a doubt one of the best games available for the Wii. If you haven't had the chance to play the game on the PlayStation 2, then now is your chance. It's more than worthy of your money, thanks to the unique style and great gameplay.
    • Metascore: 85
    • Critic Score 90
    Boom Blox is a fantastic game. The puzzler can certainly be called a classic in it's genre. The puzzels are diverse, challenging and are fun to play. The smoothness of the controls and the the physics of the buildings are something which we have never seen before.
    • Metascore: 88
    • Critic Score 90
    Even if you dislike Japan, J-Pop or anything that has to do with this country, The World Ends With You will appeal to you.
    • Metascore: 87
    • Critic Score 90
    Wow! Codemasters managed to invent the golden formula for a racing game. The intensity, the recklessness and all the cool cars make GRID awesome.
    • Metascore: 86
    • Critic Score 90
    Maxis does it again and delivers the best Sims game ever. By implementing a handful new gameplay elements, The Sims 3 now feels like an actual game. And without forgetting the players that just want to fiddle around a little bit. Making this one a lot more appealing to newcomers. The somewhat high price of new objects and the lack of accessories don't come as a surprise. The only thing left is the difficult, though pleasant, job of maintaining a second household besides your own.
    • Metascore: 93
    • Critic Score 90
    We're getting a little overwhelmed by the sheer number of Cliffy B interviews, quotes and other Cliff related stuff that have roamed the world wide web the past few weeks. But in all fairness, Gears of War 2 is a more than worthy sequel of its predeccesor. The co-op mode is still a very attractive part of the game, and the same goes for the Horde mode. With more enemies, more levels and especially more blood it offers just what you expect from a sequel. The game rarely suprises, but it hurls enough cannon fodder towards you that it will blow you away.
    • Metascore: 86
    • Critic Score 90
    Despite some minor flaws Valkyria Chronicles is full of quality and offers unique gameplay. When playing Valkyria Chronicles you'll probably get the feeling that you're wandering inside a big aquarel painting. Offering a decent challenge, versatile missions and easy to master controls Sega delivers a turn-based classic that will keep you hooked onto your PlayStation 3 for weeks, maybe even months, if you like a great story and are a sucker for tactical gameplay.
    • Metascore: 94
    • Critic Score 90
    BioShock's arrival on the PS3 is long overdue, but it's still a lot of fun to play through. BioShock is still a must-have for every PS3 owner. The graphics haven't aged that well, but it's not that much of a problem, because if you start with the game you'll have a hard time putting down the controller.
    • Metascore: 84
    • Critic Score 90
    Guitar Hero World Tour offers a more than welcome evolution to the series. With superior instruments, a powerful tracklist and extremely addicting gameplay it has already earned a place in Guitar Hero history. Playing the guitar is still going strong, but with the change to play the drums or even sing a line or two, the game offers enough variation. Not every new feature is a direct hit, but if you liked any of the previous Guitar Hero games than you will have no trouble in liking this one. And if you're looking for the best music-party game the choice is even easier. What are you waiting for? Rock on!
    • Metascore: 92
    • Critic Score 90
    Chrono Trigger hasn't lost its magic in 2009. The combat system is unique and effective, the story and its characters impressive and even the looks and sound of the game are more than you could wish for. It the end it was worth waiting for a European version.
    • Metascore: 92
    • Critic Score 90
    Harmonix paid good attention to what made Rock Band such a success. It fully adapted Rock Band 2 to this knowledge and that's why single player and multiplayer mode gives you the feeling that you're playing one solid game. The game offers much more than its predecessor and even the tracklist (what seemed almost impossible) is even better than the first one. Harmonix has given the fans exactly what they want and has given newcomers a nice starting point.
    • Metascore: 90
    • Critic Score 90
    Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 4 is a sublime RPG. There isn't much wrong if we look at the fundamentals or the overall feel of the game. Even the fact that the game appears on the obsolete PlayStation 2 doesn't affect the quality of the game says enough. And on top of that, the game will be in stores at a reduced price and with a free soundtrack. Nothing less than an instant buy.
    • Metascore: 87
    • Critic Score 90
    We use the word Epic a lot in our reviews and that is simply the best description that we can give for most of the scenes in Resistance 2. On the outside, the game isn't the best you can get nowadays, but thankfully the main focus of the developer wasn't the engine. Instead they made a epic ten hour lasting singleplayer adventure, an interesting multiplayer and a co-op mode. The sheer amount of players than can battle each other in either one of the two multiplayer modes has never been seen before on a console and will make the game even last longer.
    • Metascore: 93
    • Critic Score 90
    Braid is unique. It's a brilliant little puzzler that takes you on a great, confusing and challenging adventure. The music will still sound in your head for days after playing. Backwards. Get this game, you’ll love it.
    • Metascore: 91
    • Critic Score 90
    Dragon Age: Origins should be mentioned alongside games like Baldur’s Gate and Neverwinter Nights. The average gamer may wonder why hardcore RPG-players are drawn to a game filled with fantasy-clichés, long conversations, screens filled with statistics and mediocre voice acting. But the hardcore RPG-player knows that Bioware delivered a game that's epic, expansive, dynamic, classic and contains enough elements to make even the biggest critic shut his mouth. Dragon Age: Origins can rightfully be called a masterpiece.
    • Metascore: 87
    • Critic Score 90
    This game is without a doubt the best soccer game ever. It doesn't only play like a charm, it also looks phenomenal and the number of options is huge. There is so much to do that it will be hard to try everything out before FIFA 2010. The fact that our crew works overtime just to play the game says more than enough. FIFA 09 is everything that your little soccer heart desires.
    • Metascore: 92
    • Critic Score 90
    Batman: Arkham Asylum isn't just for the fans: it delivers a great experience to all lovers of action games. The game effortlessly combines puzzle-, stealth- and fighting-elements. Arkham Asykum sets the new standard for future licensed games.
    • Metascore: 91
    • Critic Score 90
    Batman: Arkham Asylum isn't just for the fans: it delivers a great experience to all lovers of action games. The game effortlessly combines puzzle-, stealth- and fighting-elements. Arkham Asykum sets the new standard for future licensed games.
    • Metascore: 90
    • Critic Score 90
    For only 1200 Microsoft Points you will get one of the best, most original and humoristic puzzle games ever to be constructed. But keep in mind that the game takes a big chunck out of your hard drive and that The Orange Box is also available for a very decent price. Nevertheless, Portal: Still Alive is an absolute must-buy for anyone that hasn't played the game on the PC.
    • Metascore: 93
    • Critic Score 90
    Chinatown Wars is Grand Theft Auto as it should be on a handheld. Missions are relatively short, you can always save and the point of view gives you that classical feeling. Even the use of the stylus feels like a true addition to the gameplay. And we haven't even talked about the great multiplayer, tons of details and the new 'drug-trading' mode. It's obvious that GTA: Chinatown Wars keeps the franchise going in pocket size.
    • Metascore: 90
    • Critic Score 90
    There was a lot of buzz around The Lost & Damned, but in the end it was all worth it. The game offers a nice storyline with a couple of pretty decent missions, some entertaining side-missions and a very tasteful multiplayer. But, there remains a little voice in our head that says that Rockstar could have done more, because of the repetitive structure of the missions and a storyline that didn't feel like a real surprise. Still, GTA IV is one of the best games money can buy and is, without a doubt, the best in it's genre.
    • Metascore: 90
    • Critic Score 90
    The story and world of Bayonetta don’t make sense in any way, but that’s the point. It’s a chain of strange, spectacular moments in incoherent surroundings. It’s a parody of other action games, but it also sets the new standard for those same games. It’s that good.
    • Metascore: 87
    • Critic Score 90
    The story and world of Bayonetta don’t make sense in any way, but that’s the point. It’s a chain of strange, spectacular moments in incoherent surroundings. It’s a parody of other action games, but it also sets the new standard for those same games. It’s that good.
    • Metascore: 88
    • Critic Score 90
    When the bullets pass by your ears, mortars fall on your hiding spot and tanks open fire on you, you know enough: you’re in a Battlefield-game. Bad Company 2 delivers with a superb multiplayer, perhaps making it the best online shooter currently available. The singleplayer isn’t as polished, but we can forgive the developer.
    • Metascore: 88
    • Critic Score 90
    When the bullets pass by your ears, mortars fall on your hiding spot and tanks open fire on you, you know enough: you’re in a Battlefield-game. Bad Company 2 delivers with a superb multiplayer, perhaps making it the best online shooter currently available. The singleplayer isn’t as polished, but we can forgive the developer.
    • Metascore: 88
    • Critic Score 90
    With excellent controls, a good amount of modes and a great gameplay experience, this Wii version scores better than its competitors. It's the best golf sim to date.
    • Metascore: 96
    • Critic Score 90
    Science-fiction movie fans already had movies like Star Wars and Star Trek. Mass Effect 2 manages to finally give a big sci-fi epic to gamers. Thanks to the beautiful visual effects, the game shows a realistic and convincing way of telling an interactive story. On top of that, the game improves upon almost all of the mistakes of its predecessor, though some players might feel the game lacks some more profound RPG-elements.
    • Metascore: 79
    • Critic Score 90
    Quotation forthcoming.
    • Metascore: 73
    • Critic Score 90
    This wonderfully crafted psychological drama does not only offer a story on a level rarely seen in videogames, it also boasts an excellent audiovisual presentation and an eye for detail. The few minor flaws in the core gameplay don't hurt the experience at all.
    • Metascore: 82
    • Critic Score 90
    Anno 1404 has excellent production values and gameplay, visuals and sound complement each other well. The eastern theme gives the game a new dimension, without getting overly complicated. It's a great game to start your summer holidays.
    • Metascore: 88
    • Critic Score 90
    Props to 2K Games for delivering such a strong sequel. Bioshock 2 offers an absorbing experience, runs smoothly, plays like a dream and has a fantastic story. This is how games that are driven by stories should be. Already one of the best games of 2010.
    • Metascore: 88
    • Critic Score 90
    Props to 2K Games for delivering such a strong sequel. Bioshock 2 offers an absorbing experience, runs smoothly, plays like a dream and has a fantastic story. This is how games that are driven by stories should be. Already one of the best games of 2010.
    • Metascore: 91
    • Critic Score 90
    Metroid Prime Trilogy bundles three of the best games ever made. This trilogy belongs in the collection of every Nintendo-fan, so if you haven’t started on it yet, this collection for the Wii is a good place to start. The new controller-options don’t add enough to make people who are already in possession of the original games buy this Trilogy again though.
    • Metascore: 89
    • Critic Score 90
    A great addition to GTA IV and The Lost and Damned. The trailer made us think that the fun, over the top gameplay of San Andreas was making a return, and while the end result doesn’t offer that, the story, characters, humor and the unbelievable amount of detail are still to be topped in any other game.
    • Metascore: 92
    • Critic Score 90
    Forza 3 is the most complete and impressive racing game of this moment. The race cars really feel spot-on and the Storefront can be very addicting. If you have any interest in realistic racing games, this is the game to play – both online and offline.
    • Metascore: 88
    • Critic Score 90
    Shadow Complex is a title that shows that two-dimensional games still have a right to exist. The story is well done, the influence of Metroid and Castlevania give it a classic feel and the complete package has lots of replayability. The game lends a hand here and there which makes the game more accessible for a larger audience. The game isn't perfect, thanks to the clunky aiming-mechanic when things happen in the background. Still, Shadow Complex is an example of how XBLA-games should be.
    • Metascore: 83
    • Critic Score 90
    Halo 3: ODST is a great game that transcends its label of add-on. The singleplayer is powerful, Firefight is brilliant and the extra disc with the Halo 3 multiplayer is a great bonus. The price tag makes the game a must-buy for every Halo-fanatic and a great entry point for those who are unfamiliar with the series. It remains a point of discussion if the hype around Halo 3 was justified, but with Halo 3: ODST, Bungie deserves every praise it receives.
    • Metascore: 89
    • Critic Score 90
    Tired of zombies in games? Left 4 Dead 2 makes the done-to-death genre come to life once more! Compared to the original, this sequel is better in every way. The weapons, settings, multiplayer: everything in Left 4 Dead 2 is near-perfect. There’s still no room for single players though, the game is all about working together. But that’s exactly what makes the game so incredible.
    • Metascore: 85
    • Critic Score 90
    This is a fighting game that has been made with love, that much is clear. It looks the part and plays the part. Even though the controls are overly simplified, fighting fans will lose themselves in the game thanks to all the characters and options. A fantastic addition to the weak offer of hardcore games on the Wii.
    • Metascore: 67
    • Critic Score 90
    Nier is as awesome as it is obscure. A game that will be hated by simpletons for its bold approach to the action-rpg genre, and loved by anyone in their right mind for exactly the same reason. The oddly loveable cast, the myriad of different gameplay-concepts (ranging from old school to sheer genius) and the awesome soundtrack make Nier into a roughly hewn diamond, brilliantly shining as the surprise of the year.
    • Metascore: 68
    • Critic Score 90
    Nier is as awesome as it is obscure. A game that will be hated by simpletons for its bold approach to the action-rpg genre, and loved by anyone in their right mind for exactly the same reason. The oddly loveable cast, the myriad of different gameplay-concepts (ranging from old school to sheer genius) and the awesome soundtrack make Nier into a roughly hewn diamond, brilliantly shining as the surprise of the year.
    • Metascore: 90
    • Critic Score 90
    FIFA 10 is a great football game. On almost every level it outclasses its predecessor, and that was already a fantastic game. The 360-degrees-system, the emphasis on physical elements and the improved passing-abilities ensure that this game appears even more realistic on your screen. With the adding of some interesting game-modes and the improvements over the last game, FIFA 10 is the best football game up to this date.
    • Metascore: 91
    • Critic Score 90
    FIFA 10 is a great football game. On almost every level it outclasses its predecessor, and that was already a fantastic game. The 360-degrees-system, the emphasis on physical elements and the improved passing-abilities ensure that this game appears even more realistic on your screen. With the adding of some interesting game-modes and the improvements over the last game, FIFA 10 is the best football game up to this date.
    • Metascore: 87
    • Critic Score 90
    Heavy Rain is a unique experience. It’s not a traditional game, but that isn’t a problem, because the strong story, fantastic gameplay and impressive acting make up for it. An emotional adventure in the life of real characters. An interactive drama of which we would like to receive more in the future.
    • Metascore: 88
    • Critic Score 90
    For only 800 Microsoft Points you'll get one of the greatest adventure games of all time, complete with spoken dialogue and brushed up visuals. The Secret of Monkey Island: Special Edition offers fans as well as newcomers hours of gameplay.
    • Metascore: 86
    • Critic Score 90
    For only 800 Microsoft Points you'll get one of the greatest adventure games of all time, complete with spoken dialogue and brushed up visuals. The Secret of Monkey Island: Special Edition offers fans as well as newcomers hours of gameplay.
    • Metascore: 89
    • Critic Score 90
    Studio Liverpool delivers a great bang for you buck. When all new circuits, modes en versions of existing ships are taken in account you can do the math: the original games' content has doubled. Minor flaws can cause some annoyance, but are compensated by all the other things Fury delivers. Wipeout HD just got even better.
    • Metascore: 82
    • Critic Score 90
    Defense Grid is one of the best Tower Defense-games and offers a great introduction to the genre on the Xbox 360. The game is well build, very addictive and even a pleasure to watch.
    • Metascore: 90
    • Critic Score 90
    Rockstar has made only one mistake: keeping the minigames of the DS version. Without the stylus-support they aren’t nearly as fun. But the game is still a classic after half a year of waiting and the graphics and sound have improved a lot. A lovely distraction to the GTA-games on consoles.
    • Metascore: 87
    • Critic Score 90
    Football Manager 2010 provides a rare blend of accessibility and depth. The excellent foundation was laid years ago, but now the other elements can finally match up to it. This is pure pleasure for fans of football.
    • Metascore: 86
    • Critic Score 90
    At last, another one of those unexpected fantastic games for the Nintendo DS. Each DS-owner should buy this game, just to let publishers know games like this are the games we want for the platform. The unique features of the Nintendo DS are well used in this colorful RPG.
    • Metascore: 86
    • Critic Score 90
    Winter of the Melodias continues right where the solid original left off, but adds tons of new puzzles that are there thanks to new moves and abilities (like changing the season) and a bigger world. A lovely snack that’s secretly a lot more fun than most ‘full’ games.
    • Metascore: 93
    • Critic Score 90
    Braid is a rare gem in the gaming world. It combines a wonderful audiovisual presentation, a philosophical story and ingenious puzzle gameplay into a brilliant gaming experience. If one game would deserve it to be called art, Braid would be that one game.
    • Metascore: 91
    • Critic Score 90
    The God of War Collection offers a unique possibility to experience two of the best action games ever for a reduced price. The addition of HD-graphics set it on par with temporary games. The ruthless hack-and-slash action and the fantastic level design are even now a step above many other games on the current console generation.
    • Metascore: 87
    • Critic Score 90
    Hyrule is a world where you want to be in. It’s so beautiful, with countless interesting people and exciting dungeons. So it’s no surprise that playing Spirit Tracks is truly a pleasure. The fighting, riding the train or solving puzzles: it’s all great to do. Spirit Tracks is a fantastic new addition to the series.
    • Metascore: 92
    • Critic Score 90
    Let there be no doubt: there couldn't have been a better end to this fantastic trilogy. Again and again your jaw will hit the floor in excitement. God of War III is so polished that the little mistakes will be all the more apparent, but it's nothing compared to what you get: an epic, well balanced action game.
    • Metascore: 79
    • Critic Score 90
    What we’ve got is a brilliant puzzle game with brilliant music of brilliant composers, on sale for a mere 400 Microsoft points of which the majority goes to charity. I don’t think anyone can find an excuse not to buy Chime.