While those expecting a more traditional gaming experience will be turned off after the novelty wears thin, Kinectimals is perfectly suited for the younger ones in the household, particularly those who can't keep a real pet.

It's taken a long time for this sun to rise again, but Dark Dawn is a substantial RPG that will appeal to both newcomers and veterans.

Ghost Trick is about problems and solutions, and while there's some fun in exploring the possibilities along the way, the game is only really concerned in wrapping you up in one memorable, start-to-finish run. Give it a chance to haunt you, and you won't be disappointed.

Magicka's clever, inspired twists on the straight action-RPG are sure to result in hours of freeform chaotic fun.

The DS has been good to RPG fans over the years, so it's somewhat poetic that Dragon Quest VI sees the system off into the sunset. It's a game that lets veterans reminisce over days gone by, while allowing newcomers to revel in a golden era they may have otherwise never known.

Much of what made Okami so special has been preserved and even refined in the sequel, but Okamiden slips on the execution front a little too often, preventing it from rising above its predecessor. Nonetheless, it's still a beautiful game and a worthy successor that both newcomers and veteran celestial painters will enjoy.

The challenge level in the Dishwasher is nearly pitch-perfect, skillfully walking the fine line between punishment and reward.

If you've never experienced old school Final Fantasy, this is the perfect way to get acquainted.

Apocalypse has high expectations of the player, but the reward for hard work, diligence and patience is one of the most exciting racing games available. Even with the lingering issues, this is Motorstorm at its most extravagant, at its most intense, and at its absolute best.

An experience similar to Minecraft, but it manages to distinguish itself with a heavy dose of breakneck fun that Minecraft often lacks.

Some players may get frustrated with the level of trial and error, but if you're up to the challenge, Ms. Splosion Man is a satisfying pursuit of timing and control with an ending that's well worth the effort.

When you start building a game on such an impressive foundation you're guaranteed to have a quality product in the end, but the longer you play it the more the issues become bothersome. Just like the NFL rookie class of 2011, it should have spent a little more time in training camp.

When you start building a game on such an impressive foundation you're guaranteed to have a quality product in the end, but the longer you play it the more the issues become bothersome. Just like the NFL rookie class of 2011, it should have spent a little more time in training camp.

Soloists might enjoy a long weekend on Dead Island, but this isn't a game for the "separate vacations" crowd. The combination of twitch action with an MMO's girth minus the grind cements the game as co-op classic. There's some brain-dead repetition as you down brain eaters, but the rising challenge and resource management means you'll always be mindful of your tasks.

The very embodiment of addicting.

While Festival of Blood is more of a bite-sized take on the Infamous experience, it's a great Halloween treat. If you're a fan you'd have to be batty not to pick it up.

With platformers enjoying a big resurgence in the last few years, it makes sense that Rayman: Origins has an anachronistic feel. Challenging levels, mosquito breaks, amusing multiplayer, and a hard-as-nails reward for perfectionists assures its place in the platformer pantheon. It just lacks a little of the sparkle that could've helped battle the fatigue of coaxing out every last lum.

King of Fighters XIII accomplishes the difficult task of redeeming a previously failed attempt at revitalizing the franchise. Everything that makes a great fighting game, from an interesting and balanced cast to well-conceived mechanics and visual flair, are here in abundance.

King of Fighters XIII accomplishes the difficult task of redeeming a previously failed attempt at revitalizing the franchise. Everything that makes a great fighting game, from an interesting and balanced cast to well-conceived mechanics and visual flair, are here in abundance.

Trine 2 may not offer many changes over its predecessor and its campaign only yields about six hours of gameplay, but this new release is more refined, more beautiful, and more fun. It's a steal at $15, and if you missed this indie gem the first time around, Trine 2 provides a phenomenal introduction to the series that won't disappoint.

While the presentation could still use work, the tweaks to the play mechanics add a welcome layer of depth in how you approach and execute shots. More importantly, it strikes the right balance between easy to learn and hard to master that's been conspicuously absent from earlier entries in the long-running series.

It's not for players who demand immediate gratification from their games, but those who appreciate the simple pleasure of overcoming challenges within a team environment will find a lot to like. It's deep, customizable, and provides a lot of latitude for different play styles.

Dirt Showdown is certainly a different type of racer, trading bumpy wheel-to-the-road driving mechanics for the dents, scrapes, and screams of vehicular mayhem. In some ways, it feels more like an expansion pack than an all-new game, but if you don't take this departure too seriously, it makes for some great summer parties online.

It is a great pick-up and play title with an upbeat sense of humor, relentless action, and strong replay value thanks to different difficulty levels and cooperative play.

Death flirts with mediocrity, but he's careful never to linger there too long. Darksiders II has more than a few rough edges, but they never fully run away with the experience. With a meaty quest, and hours upon hours of optional, quality stuff to do and discover, you simply can't beat Death, so you might as well join him.

The most important aspect of any multiplayer game is how much you want to play after a session ends. This is where Global Offensive excels, possessing the same addictive quality that helped make the previous games a long-term success story.

If you've every daydreamed about commanding a starship held together by sheer will by a bloodied, ragtag crew, these are 10 bucks very well spent.

Despite a few wrinkles, LittleBigPlanet is a wonderful outlet for creativity and a great fit on the handheld. While the gameplay won't convert those who weren't already enamored with the series, its longtime admirers are guaranteed to burlap it up.

Despite a few fumbles with the new multiplayer option and the throwaway storyline, it's a polished adventure that easily justifies its reasonable $20 price tag. But, even better, this is a game that begs for multiple playthroughs.

PES 2013 combines the strengths of its recent predecessors to deliver the most focused game of soccer the franchise has seen in a while. As a result, the series comes closer to FIFA's quality than it has in years.

Ninja Theory has done right by Devil May Cry, delivering a striking game that honors the series' essence while still feeling like the product of a distinct vision. If you can forgive a few excesses--like the pretty-but-toothless boss fights--you'll find that your old friend hasn't changed all that much on the inside, in spite of his new style.

Nintendo has managed to lower the barrier to entry in Awakening while still preserving the core Fire Emblem experience. It takes positive strides forward with new additions like enhancements to the social system and battle mechanics, and the series' established formula is all the better for it. If you've been hard-up for a solid RPG on the 3DS, Awakening is precisely what you've been waiting for.

A few things about the new Tomb Raider come across as wasted effort. The story of Lara’s transformation is sabotaged by the gameplay, and is frankly a little dorky, with an after-school special style multi-ethnic cast filled by lame sterotypes like angry black woman and scrap-happy Scotsman. Likewise a multiplayer mode, which nobody familiar with Tomb Raider would expect or even think to ask for, is competent but utterly unremarkable.

Some of the new features are questionable, such as the throwing meter, while others, like the postseason mode, aren't fleshed out enough to make MLB 13 an instant purchase for those who are content with previous versions. Yet while there really aren't any new modes or "wow" features to make MLB 13 a completely different ballgame from previous entries, the gameplay, customization, computer AI, and visuals are too strong to ignore for even the most jaded fan.

Series savants won’t be disappointed by the game’s catalog of well-constructed missions and stellar multiplayer experience, but players may still find themselves hoping for some sort of wild mutation from the franchise’s established norms.

Review forthcoming.

While still not meeting the revolution that 1942 was, the addition of Titan mode makes it feel more than “another year, another title” but it’s cutting it close.

The addition of the extra vehicles and racing styles takes what was already a solid premise and brings it to the next level. It’s a definite must-play for racing fans who enjoy getting a little dirty.

The gameplay is a bit of a hybrid, but its open enough for exploration without getting lost. It’s obviously a game for fans, and it succeeds, but it’s also a good game for a portable platform that anyone can get into.

Though the modes and extras in the console port aren't solid gold, they still add a good bit of value to an accomplished fighting game. Like your nose, neck, or kneecaps, if a fighting game isn't broken, there's not really any need to fix it.

Bad Company set out to deliver a successful single-player campaign, and it succeeds. This isn’t a unique feat and it’s not a new high standard, but it’s definitely a first for the series.

It’s accessible, fun, and a mighty shuffle in the right direction, if a tad on the shallow side.

It replicates the feeling of sliding down a mountain side with eerie precision and manages to make other control schemes feel dated. There’s certainly plenty of opportunity for improvement with the sequel, but with a ton of content and even more fun, it’s hard to go wrong with SSX Blur.

The battles could also stand to be a little flashier. At the same time, puzzle games don’t get much better than this, and Puzzle Quest is a solid, original concept and nearly perfect for the handheld medium.

A smart package of everything good about the series down to the last crumb of skeleton dust.

Another solid entry in the series, continuing to scream by with fantastic production values, tight controls, lots of objectives, and above all, an intense sense of speed. Its biggest weakness lies in the time it takes to unlock a decent number of courses, but fans willing to look past that should strap in and hang on.

Zack and Wiki is colorful, inventive, and just plain fun. It never manages to transcend the trail-and-error aesthetic endemic to the genre, but for most players, the unique experience and thrill of discovery will be more than worth a little bit of frustration.

The Escape may handily trump the Assault, but neophyte Riddicks have a unique experience to work through. Though vets who return may begrudge Athena, it's doubtful they won't finish. It's an abridged effort, and more of a dreaded point-five than a true sequel, but with both missions it still reigns as the best first-person, melee, stealth, parkour game featuring Vin Diesel.

Naruto: Rise of the Ninja is not one of the best ninja games to hit the market, but it is one of the best anime-based games ever released.

It's able to emulate its idols very well, so whatever War is doing, it's bound to be enjoyable. But anyone who's attracted to this sort of game, or action games in general, is going to feel more familiar than floored.

A streamlined strategy experience for consoles that's easy to play and appreciate. The game achieves balance and variety, letting it hold up to repeated plays, and creates that “one more turn” addiction that defines most great strategy games.

Borderlands is a bit of a grind-fest, but that's part of the fun, as you take on tougher enemies and hunt for bigger and badder gear. The co-op play is integrated seamlessly, and there's a huge world to explore with friends or on your own.

Borderlands is a bit of a grind-fest, but that's part of the fun, as you take on tougher enemies and hunt for bigger and badder gear. The co-op play is integrated seamlessly, and there's a huge world to explore with friends or on your own.

Ninja Gaiden 2 adheres to the Team Ninja aesthetic, which will please fans but won't endear the series to a new audience.

This is the first case of Nintendo not finding a happy medium between accessibility and servicing hardcore players. Yet if you get a group of people together on a Saturday night to play you'll be the only one complaining.

For a value title, Blast Works provides serious replay value for those willing to take the initiative.

Crysis Warhead is undeniably fun, great looking, and includes a strong multiplayer component—all for $30. It’s also short, and has some awkward pacing. You’re really getting your money’s worth from the multiplayer, and if you can run it on the enthusiast settings you’ll have a great time just watching your machine get a workout.

Casual hoops players aren't going to be wowed with this latest iteration of NBA 2K9, but it's meant to satisfy those who live and breathe basketball, as the improvements in the AI and atmosphere alone are sure to tickle the inner twine of dedicated fans.

Its simple, intuitive gameplay, combined with a clever use of strategy and impressive length make it a great buy for PS3 owners looking for a cheap fix.

If you’d rather call the shots than jump through hoops, this unique game is your kind of racket.

MotorStorm has lost little in its transition to the PSP. Arctic Edge may not have the eye-popping HD visuals of its PS3 counterparts, but it continues the franchise's frenzied attitude, which makes for a great racer on the go.

It's missing a few elements that would make it an ideal starting point for anyone unfamiliar to the series and is unlikely to attract new fans with its straightforward approach, but in terms of value and quality, Broken Destiny is an excellent handheld fighting game.

There isn’t much like Fat Princess on any platform, and though it’s clear that it can grow in any number of ways, the game is already hectic and fun.

Nagging issues we've been complaining about for years have gone untouched, and the meager additions to this year's game aren't enough to offset the problems. The endless list of bells and whistles is pointless when your team is blowing wide open layups when it matters. NBA 2K10 is barely the best roundball game on the market, but at this point it's starting to look like a paper champion.

If you're looking for a good single player adventure and the best online experience on the Wii bar none, then look no further than Monster Hunter Tri. Newcomers will find it very easy to get into the action, while the experience is deep enough to satisfy seasoned adventurers.

It's a shame that Split/Second fails to provide new courses later on, and once you've seen it all, it does lose some of its magic. But while it's fresh, Split/Second delivers an exhilarating sense of danger and surprise. It's just simple, explosive fun.

It's a shame that Split/Second fails to provide new courses later on, and once you've seen it all, it does lose some of its magic. But while it's fresh, Split/Second delivers an exhilarating sense of danger and surprise. It's just simple, explosive fun.

If you’ve been hankering for another tour of Ferelden, then jump right in. Just don’t expect any fantasy romance; this time around, your companions are keeping it strictly professional.

Though the presentation isn't up to the original's stellar standards, the core of what made Valkyria Chronicles such a breakthrough is preserved and refined in the sequel.

It's rare for a visual direction to have such a profound impact on gameplay, but the two are seamlessly interwoven in Kirby's Epic Yarn. It's certainly not one of the more challenging platformers out there, but it's a breathtaking experience nonetheless.

Ultimate Nina Storm 2 is definitely an improvement for the series, faithfully utilizing its source material to create a fun, striking game. The online multiplayer is still a work in progress for the series, and while not all revisions are for the better, there's plenty of content stashed into the package to make it a worthwhile pick up.

This is one Blu-ray collection that's begging you to shred its cellophane wrapper like a raccoon would do to some delectable trash bags.

One of those rare games ostensibly aimed at youngsters that is likely to sustain adult interest. Its core premise is simple and plays to our most base completist urges, but it never feels cheap for doing so. It may start off slow, but once the experience picks up, it becomes a delightful trip indeed.

Strives to replicate the Masters, and it succeeds on an impressive level. It's got the sort of variety that'll keep you playing for a good long time, and its treatment of the Masters is slick and educational, doing honor to the venerable tournament.

Strives to replicate the Masters, and it succeeds on an impressive level. It's got the sort of variety that'll keep you playing for a good long time, and its treatment of the Masters is slick and educational, doing honor to the venerable tournament.

Pays as much tribute to the classics as it does the games and superstars of today, reinvigorating the wrestling genre with a fast, fun pace that most anyone could appreciate. If you dig classic wrestling games but are turned off by the ultra-complex, sim-oriented direction the genre has taken, then WWE All Stars is exactly what you've been waiting for.

It's hard not to feel at least a little bit ecstatic taking part in its marvelously framed moments. Avid audiophiles weary of the standard-issue music game will definitely find something novel in this high-concept, yet easily enjoyed shooter.

Trenched is doubtlessly a tower defense game, just one that falls further from the tree than most. Though it takes a few missteps, particularly the tedious scrap collection and the lack of a survival mode, it's ultimately another notch in Double Fine's belt.

Draws you into its unfamiliar terrain with a great sense of atmosphere and fosters experimentation with varied tools and fascinating situations. It's a fairly brief excursion, but it's worth the journey.

By nature, F1 2011 is a focused racer that demands driving with patience and perseverance. That being said, there's a lot of flexibility built in to let players approach it however they choose, and this season's changes translate well to changes in gameplay that fans will want to explore.

From a gameplay standpoint, Pro Evolution Soccer 2012's minor enhancements add up to a reasonable improvement over last year's entry. Refined AI, improved realism both on and off the ball, and a better sense of pacing add to the depth while maintaining the franchise's fun, addictive spirit.

The Run falters with its high-profile but underdeveloped plot as well as some awkward design choices. However, it overcomes these potholes with courses that are a blast to drive and simple multiplayer that keeps you hooked in.

Need for Speed: The Run falters with its high-profile but underdeveloped plot as well as some awkward design choices. However, it overcomes these potholes with courses that are a blast to drive and simple multiplayer that keeps you hooked in.

Escape Plan's puzzles are charming and inventive, and it's smartly designed to be playable in short spurts.

On its loftiest promise of redefining massively multiplayer combat for good, Tera delivers a stunning new model of action that can't be ignored. Its only flaw is keeping the focus of its ambitions narrow, choosing to play it safe in almost every other regard with the form and function of an otherwise conventional MMO.

With a series of meaningful improvements that culminate in a more interestingly designed campaign and sustainable multiplayer experience, Fall of Cybertron continues the franchise's upward trend in quality with a sequel that's definitely worth attention.

The Last Story employs some bold mechanisms in an attempt to chart new territory. If not for a few undercooked components like the multiplayer, it would stand among the best on the Wii. Still, it's a strong RPG in its own right, excelling precisely where you'd expect such a game to. The Wii could have done much worse for a bookend to its storied history.

Nintendo really has this kind of game down to a science, to the point where players can almost take for granted that the newest Mario game will hit a certain standard of quality. It's not the most inspired piece of work, but New Super Mario Bros Wii U satisfies the requirements for a great platformer and does a good job of putting the system's touchscreen to interesting use. The game is actually at its best when another human being is involved, and if you're on board with the Wii U, it's a great chance to get in touch with your new system.

While the omission of co-op play in this outing is an unexpected disappointment, Lego City Undercover is the best game in the series so far. It's consistently fun and surprising, offering the freedom of a great open-world game without all the guilt.

This arcade-style take on stealth takes a careful balance of planning and execution, and even if it’s not quite a perfect crime, it’s still a pretty darn good one.

Like a well tempered sentence, Abyss is a complete thought. It’s solid on all angles but lacking any real sharp celerity, except in a plot seemingly based off a lost Einstein journal. It’s as good a Tales game as any, but it doesn’t raise any bars.

It doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel, but working within its accepted elements it does a great job of dumping you in the jungle and making you feel like you’re fighting for your life.

It doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel, but working within its accepted elements it does a great job of dumping you in the jungle and making you feel like you’re fighting for your life.

Hell's Highway is a polished, coherent experience that, despite a few setbacks, remains compelling with interesting mechanics and compelling gameplay.

As if card games weren’t enough of a niche market, a video game like The Eye of Judgment complicates matters by seeping into an even deeper crack within that crevice. But for what it’s worth, the game is a steal--especially if there’ll be more use to come of the packaged camera in the future.

It’s not a particularly attractive game and there are some gameplay quirks to work around, but it’s easy to forget the issues when you’re making a total mess of things, tossing objects from one side of the room to the other and letting gravity take its course.

With so much going for it, having to wrestle with the controls in Portable Ops is a real shame. It simply tries to do too much with too little, and while not a deal-breaker, it definitely makes the experience a lot less fun than it could be.

The mixture of real-time action and strategy is a joy to play, and a nice departure from what is fast becoming a stale play mechanic.

College Hoops 2K7 is easily the best NCAA basketball option out there.

With innovative, fun controls, above average presentation, and more options, modes, and features than you can shake an aluminum bat at, MVP 07 NCAA Baseball on the PlayStation 2 is recommended for any baseball fan.

The level of customization and personalization available in Mario Party 8 and the intuitive fun of the Wiimote make it the quintessential party accessory of 2007. What few control weaknesses are present are overshadowed by the inane fun and competition, a host of unlockables, and addictive mini-games.

The mixture of real-time action and strategy is a joy to play, and a nice departure from what is fast becoming a stale play mechanic.

A superb entry in the genre with a ton of great missions and reasons to play again and again. Anyone that enjoys the macabre, or going nose-to-nose with zombies should check it out. Fans will absolutely love it as it's basically a love letter from Capcom to them.

The big question on everyone’s mind is which is better: EA’s "Skate," or Tony Hawk’s Proving Ground? We’re going with Tony on this one, though by a slim margin. The core of the game is just much stronger with the full complement of tricks, more reliable controls, far more interesting objectives, a vastly superior video editing tool, and a lot more content in general.

The big question on everyone’s mind is which is better: EA’s "Skate," or Tony Hawk’s Proving Ground? We’re going with Tony on this one, though by a slim margin. The core of the game is just much stronger with the full complement of tricks, more reliable controls, far more interesting objectives, a vastly superior video editing tool, and a lot more content in general.

The experience is a good length, without even engaging the replays, and its feel-good manner and attention to its source material is unmatched for a licensed game.

The experience is a good length, without even engaging the replays, and its feel-good manner and attention to its source material is unmatched for a licensed game.

But if you do own Supreme Commander and want more, Forged Alliance is a no-brainer.

First-person platforming is certainly nothing new, but an entire game built around it is. It works and comes across as a new beast, just don't expect a lot of play time from it unless you're obsessive compulsive. There's still room for refinement, but anyone who's curious, jump in.

Its no-nonsense, pick-up-and-play sensibility is perfectly portable, and for many Final Fantasy fans it’s an excellent stopgap while waiting for the DS remake of Final Fantasy IV.

From it's setting in modern Tokyo to its fast paced enemy encounters, The World Ends with You stands out as a daring and innovative franchise for Square-Enix, in spite of the main character's struggle with amnesia.

An interesting, but ultimately weak, single-player experience is a bit of a disappointment to be sure. But the excellent and innovative multiplayer makes Dawn of War II worth the price for real-time strategy fans.

de Blob's Katamari-like premise is simple yet compelling, but repetitive challenge types and a general lack of gameplay variety keep it from being essential.

Muramasa is easy to pick up and play thanks to its simple control scheme, but offers enough depth and challenge to keep the action from getting stale. Combined with its amazing visuals, this is easily one of the better action titles on the platform.

Even if the master of puppets doesn't pull your strings, the sheer breadth of challenge offered by the game's sadistic setlist is yet another ace up its sleeve.

As a port, Tekken 6 offers some of the best fighting you'll encounter on a handheld, though if you already have a copy on the consoles, there's little point in splurging. For better or worse, the game provides an identical experience across the board.

Trauma Team is a step in the right direction for the series, adding new elements to keep things fresh while managing to preserve what's worked well.

Smackdown vs. Raw 2010 is a game about its big storylines, big matches, and big thrills. But most of all, it's a game about its fans, which makes it one of the more enjoyable installments of the series to date.

NBA Live 10 is a vastly improved game, making key strides in the areas of AI, controls, and atmosphere. While there are a few stumbles here and there, hoops fans sour on the franchise will be pleasantly surprised with what the developers were able to accomplish.

Miles Edgeworth's take on the franchise doesn't pack on too many surprises, but is nonetheless faithful to the tenets that make Ace Attorney great.

The game largely succeeds more than it falters, and anyone with a soft spot for deep, team-based strategy should not pass up this substantial gem.

Torchlight applies a smooth and modern design to a time-tested concept. The result is successfully crafted and eminently playable dungeon crawler at the attractive price of 20 bucks. The one downer is the puzzling lack of online play.

It's the perfect game to jump into the series with if you're a newcomer, and the updates and new content are enough to keep veterans satisfied.

It's the perfect game to jump into the series with if you're a newcomer, and the updates and new content are enough to keep veterans satisfied.

Capcom has once again successfully recreated a classic Mega Man game while improving the package with tweaks and new content. Those intimidated or even frustrated by the normal difficulty of a Mega Man game can fall back on the easy mode, making the experience more accessible than ever.

If you're coming to this party, be prepared to play, just not in the traditional way. The 90-something built-in games are a paltry offering for the series, and the tap-only ethos really starts to wear on once you start to hit your stride as a designer. Still, the toolset is inspired, and those with a connected Wii and the ambition (and wallets) could potentially find their 15-miliseconds of fame.

Considering the package deal, both games are good for bloody trip down memory lane. You might even be surprised at how well they hold up.

Brief as it is, its two hours of new content bears the Bioware standard of excellence. If your ship's decks are looking a little lonely of late, consider taking this crafty criminal's services for a spin.

Three levels may not sound like much, but you'll get several hours' worth of elegantly designed exploration and jetpacking fun for your paltry five dollar buy-in.

This is an inverted Faustian bargain--will you pay the high price to play the small slice of heaven that lingers in Limbo?

The lack of online play is a shame, but if you've been looking for a great follow-up to Castle Crashers, Scott Pilgrim vs. The World should not be passed up.

Tumble has the broad appeal of any good puzzler, though it will tax your manual dexterity in ways Tetris never dreamed. Like any good puzzle game, there will be some frustration, especially with the novel contortion element.

Rearmed 2 may not be as easy to recommend as its predecessor was--1200 Microsoft points isn't peanuts--but if you've been craving another dalliance with Spencer, you won't be disappointed, provided you're not a stickler about the whole jumping thing.

Stacking is quaint, even charming, with its silent-film style and the funny ways that the dolls react to whatever nonsense is being propagated. The game is a little on the short side, and though there are some gameplay change-ups in the conclusion, don't expect any keyed-up moments; the experience remains moderated and subtle throughout.

Playing by your lonesome isn't that rewarding, and online play can be frustrating with all those cheap answer grinders out there.

Yakuza 4 builds on its history and its strengths, using four well-differentiated playable characters to multiply the value of its character-driven drama and exhilarating fights. The game sometimes feels dated and a bit too stodgily conventional, but its virtual tour of a bizarrely attractive, crime-soaked, hyperbolic slice of Japan as seen through the eyes of its underworld nobility is certainly worth taking.

There's no mistaking Outland for its marvelous presentation or its curious conglomeration of elements, which quite possibly amount to the freshest take on action platformers in a good long while. At 800 Microsoft Points, it's a journey well worth taking.

Unless you absolutely need to have a moderate-looking HD version, you'd be better off with the Wii iteration because it includes multiple control setups and all the same extra features.

Nimbly straddling the line between technical and accessible, the series continues to be one of the best dancing games out there, if not one of the best games on Kinect period.

While it doesn't inspire the imaginative wonder of Epic Yarn, Kirby's Return to Dream Land is a welcome return to the gameplay that got this hero off the ground. The structure feels a bit formulaic at times, but it's challenging and true enough to form to keep Kirby fans of all ages from feeling deflated.

Online play holds up admirably to the lobby features and netcode standards of the original, and dedicated pad players should find little trouble adjusting their links, loops, and launchers to the Vita's crisp controls.

It has little to offer fighting game fans bridled with brand fatigue and even less to Tekken players still wary of polarizing mechanics and the tricky jump to 2D. But in terms of keeping pace with innovation and bringing something new to the table, Street Fighter x Tekken duly makes the effort worth the while.

Stumbles a bit due to its uncompromising control scheme that puts just a few too many hurdles in the way of your enjoyment. Largely, though, Pit's comeback is a successful one.

Skullgirls uses its personality and a masterful execution of the genre to punch well above its weight as a $15 downloadable upstart. Even if it isn't quite pound-for-pound on par with the giants of the genre, it's bold enough to aim for the top and accomplished enough to put up one heck of a fight.

With a mix of on-foot gunplay, full on dogfights, and strategic base-building, Starhawk lets you find your niche or switch roles at the drop of a hat. While it doesn't leverage this versatility to create new game types to call its own, its territory-based gameplay offers a wide range of tactical options to explore.

If you buy games for the single-player experience it's hard to recommend Ghost Recon: Future Soldier. Once you hop online it's a different story as the tactical, objective-driven modes manage to fill the five-year void left since the release of the superior Advanced Warfighter 2. It's heavily reliant on teammates who are willing to play specific roles, but with a group of dedicated soldiers it's a war that you'll want to keep fighting.

It's kind of like having some philosophical chewing gum to go with your war. You feel like there's something to think about, but it's not going to bother you as you go about your business.

Level randomization is a delicate tool and one that Spelunky wields well, placing its tiles just so to equally aggravate and entice. Play Spelunky to conquer it, keep playing to master it, and just remember to keep your eyes open for new danger and adventure.

Well-tuned driving and fighting ultimately outweigh Sleeping Dogs' inconsistent tone and relatively modest production values. The ability and status of your character ramp up nicely, and you'll have plenty of opportunity to exercise your power in a well-constructed playground.

Combines bold action with a certain level of restraint, taking a few chances but still hewing close to the familiar. The unexpected multiplayer arenas will click with some, while others may not even touch it, and only the server logs, written on ancient papyrus scrolls, will show if it has staying power.

There’s a lot to appreciate here, and many good fights to be had -- Injustice actually does justice to its source material and its players.

The time-stopping fun is handled really well, too. It’s especially fun to see individual raindrops freeze as you slow time down and run about disarming a whole group of enemies. In general, the game is as interesting to look at as it is to play.

It’s like a great amusement park ride: fun while it lasts. But peel off that shiny paint and pause the adrenaline rush and you see there are some core problems hiding in the shadows, like underlying structure and play that just don’t completely congeal. Even so, it’s a hell of a ride, and it’s hard not to be forgiving and embrace this darkness.

It’s like a great amusement park ride: fun while it lasts. But peel off that shiny paint and pause the adrenaline rush and you see there are some core problems hiding in the shadows, like underlying structure and play that just don’t completely congeal. Even so, it’s a hell of a ride, and it’s hard not to be forgiving and embrace this darkness.

If you have played a part in the Xenosaga series then you’ve already made your decision on Episode III, and it will meet your expectations if you’ve been eagerly anticipating it. But if you’re on the sidelines, it’s a game you’ll have to put serious effort towards understanding and completely enjoying.

The time-stopping fun is handled really well, too. It’s especially fun to see individual raindrops freeze as you slow time down and run about disarming a whole group of enemies. In general, the game is as interesting to look at as it is to play.

Yet again, the lack of dual analog sticks is a huge problem for a PSP game, mainly because Size Matters attempts to emulate its big brother instead of forging out on its own. Even so, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better platformer, or any platformer, released this year.

Final Fantasy III is a solid product. The shortcomings with the saves and lack of DS tech infusion are unfortunate, but as an RPG it’s the real deal, and shows why the franchise is so revered.

It has its moments, but overall, it’s a disappointing step sideways for one of the more revered franchises in the industry. The good news is that it’s the most in-depth multiplayer shooting experience on the consoles, making it a game still worth picking up.

It’s a sequel to one of the most entertaining Star Wars games ever made, and it honors one of the best sci-fi trilogies of all time. Unfortunately, some of the design limitations might keep you from playing each level multiple times to find all the goodies and online achievements.

It’s a sequel to one of the most entertaining Star Wars games ever made, and it honors one of the best sci-fi trilogies of all time. Unfortunately, some of the design limitations might keep you from playing each level multiple times to find all the goodies and online achievements.

It’s a sequel to one of the most entertaining Star Wars games ever made, and it honors one of the best sci-fi trilogies of all time. Unfortunately, some of the design limitations might keep you from playing each level multiple times to find all the goodies and online achievements.

The Wii controls are integrated almost seamlessly into the gameplay, making for a port that’s actually better than the original and worth at least renting for vets of the series. There’s no second opinion needed on this one.

Chocobo Tales couples a mini-game challenge with clever writing and simple card battling to create a game that is borderline brilliant. But no amount of Final Fantasy allusions, sharp graphics, or WiFi support can mask the fact that stylus and mic mini-games are starting to grow long in the tooth.

On its tenth anniversary, the series has managed to come up with its biggest and brightest entry yet with a stock of engaging battles, quirky cutscenes, and slick shooting.

The game is accessible enough to be picked up by someone who hasn’t yet earned their wings, and while the online mode isn’t incredibly deep, it’s a solid addition that makes the game that much more attractive. If jets aren’t your thing, though, it won’t convince you to enroll in flight school.

Although not everything works perfectly in Renegade Squadron, the most important feature in the game--the online multiplayer--is great. If you’re interested in the single-player content, you will come away disappointed, even with all of the different gameplay modes.

The game boldly wears both its heart and its punk rock attitude on its sleeve, and manages a totally playable action control scheme for the Wii that uses the Wiimote without abusing it. The game is in some ways covers a narrow range and could definitely push farther with its open world concept, but the killer vibe and amazing moments make this heroic effort worth checking out.

If it's engaging storytelling on a handheld scale you're after, Apollo Justice serves up another ace for Capcom’s line of courtroom sims.

The fighting system may still need a few more lessons in the dojo, but when it comes to flashy visuals, an expansive single-player element, and a robust cast of combatants, Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 3 is no doubt the ultimate choice in giving fans of the series what they want.

Advance Wars: Days of Ruin is a nice continuation of the series, but there’s very little here that’s unexpected or particularly clever.

Grimoire of the Rift rewards players with a rich tactical RPG experience, but the lack of a meaningful and well-developed plot will leave many desiring more.

Secret Agent Clank gives the series’ tried and true gameplay a suave undercover twist and keeps the action moving with a wide variety of characters, vehicles, and objectives.

Burst Limit is a well-rounded package in fighting shape, keeping up its momemtum by offering plenty of different modes. As a fighter, it holds its own weight with a large cast of characters, unique and easy to perform special moves, and tight controls.

Little King's Story is an impressive package, with only a few lingering flaws keeping it from true greatness. It's a slow burn that rewards those with the patience to appreciate its elaborate setup.

While the formula is definitely on its last legs, LEGO Batman’s simple fun is engaging and even gets better as you go. The omission of online play is a disappointment, but thanks to a lineup of strong characters, more levels, and gameplay tweaked to fit the Dark Knight’s style, LEGO Batman is the best of the LEGO breed.

Battlestations: Pacific improves upon almost every facet of the original, offering more of just about everything.

Mega Man 9 succeeds in delivering an authentic retro experience, but that’s not to say it’s flawless.

The reincarnation of the original Fire Emblem isn’t the best in the series, but it certainly does enough to make it a worthy addition.

Puzzle Quest Galactrix successfully reproduces the hybrid RPG/puzzle design that made the previous fantasy-themed Challenge of the Warlords so successful. Even if the overall package doesn't quite match the magic of the older game, this is still a great puzzle title that's tough to put down once you've picked it up.

Season showdown strikes at the heart of the college football fan and running the ball feels much more natural. There are also tons of new features and no one can fault the developers for not trying. But many of them prove to be irrelevant for experienced players and there are still more quirks and cheap tricks than there should be for a franchise so long in the tooth.

Pro Evolution Soccer 2010 provides a fun, straightforward experience that builds on last year's game and gets the franchise back on track.

No More Heroes 2 desperately wants to be played, giving players a quick but fashionable menu and upping its number game with more enemies, more bosses, more playable characters, and more weapons. It delivers more and better, and it still packs much of the same style and flair that helped the first game succeed despite its flaws.

If skateboarding is your way of life then buy without pause, but the more casual player should give it a rent to make sure the enhancements warrant the cost.

MAG places a strong emphasis on teamwork with an intelligent command structure that brings order to battles of enormous scale. It could use more map variety, better balancing, and ways to decrease player downtime, but overall, it's a strong foundation for an ambitious new franchise.

The electro bleeps range from the avant-garde Philip Glass to the avant-hard of Orbital, and likely your love of this type of music will determine if this is a must-have or an impulse purchase.

Tiger Woods PGA Tour 11 focuses most of its attention on gameplay this year, keeping its traditional controls intact while adding the focus meter to the mix, which adds a nice level of strategy to the game.

Like Stolen Memories, though, Overlord is a short-lived experience with plenty of familiar elements. Two-or-so hours of gameplay is a little slim for the price, though the quality of the content ultimately speaks for itself.

Enslaved's length is about standard for this day and age, but it still feels like it's over all too quickly. It's one of those rare games in which the majority of the experience feels imperative and consequential.

EA Sports MMA comes out swinging with a solid first entry, but only time will tell if its defining features will truly sustain the game over the long term, especially with regards to its bold decisions when it comes to online play.

Though it may not paint precisely by the numbers laid out by more substantial action games, Epic Mickey succeeds in crafting a deep, story-rich adventure in which choices ultimately matter. It's a shame that the minute-to-minute gameplay doesn't quite measure up to the rest of the package. Nevertheless, Epic Mickey is grand in scope, replayability, and charm.

The HD upgrade for Beyond Good & Evil is an unmistakable improvement. The conversion isn't quite perfect though. In places, you'll still find blocky textures, odd visual glitches, menus floating beyond the edge of the world, and places where you can fall right through the geometry.

It's a sequel to one of the most entertaining Star Wars games ever made, and it honors one of the best sci-fi trilogies of all time. Unfortunately, some of the design limitations might keep you from playing each level multiple times to find all the goodies and online achievements.

It's a sequel to one of the most entertaining Star Wars games ever made, and it honors one of the best sci-fi trilogies of all time. Unfortunately, some of the design limitations might keep you from playing each level multiple times to find all the goodies and online achievements.

The 3DS rendition of Super Street Fighter IV is a smart adaptation that looks, functions, but most of all, plays just like the genuine article. If you can live with the compromises it makes with controls, then it's a solid pick amid a lukewarm lineup of welterweight launch games.

It's over in a flash, but when it's done, you'll be eager to find out what happens next.

Rift is a young game, so it's natural for it to exhibit some growing pains during these early months. Still, even amidst the relative flux of rapidly-changing classes and other early-game kinks, the experience feels remarkably complete and cohesive.

Toy Soldiers marshals no small amount of personality and polish, and the thoughtful and detailed presentation never misses its mark as it lampoons and celebrates its goofy what-if 80's scenario.

As far as we're concerned, the Driver series has a new lease on life. This latest jaunt to San Francisco will keep you playing for hours, with an enormous campaign brimming with challenges and a multiplayer package that benefits enormously from the novel mechanics that define the experience.

If you've missed out on the original outbreak, Off the Record is a great opportunity to experience what Dead Rising 2 is all about. Walking amongst the living dead is an enticing proposition in this alternate version filled with extra content, especially when it comes with a discounted price tag.

Ace Combat may never fully overcome its identity crisis, but its latest sortie is a successful one. Assault Horizon creates some spectacular moments with its visually impressive, close-range battles that make up for some of its slower, more repetitive lulls, and incorporates several different types of gameplay without compromising its overall quality or theme.

Those who love the Lego license or just need a fresh Potter fix are in for a bewitching good time.

Though it leans a little too heavily on well-trod genre conventions, there's no denying that Reckoning has a whole lot to offer in terms of sheer breadth. Similarly, though the challenge tapers off dramatically toward the end, its combat is welcoming, gratifying, and hypnotic.

Just like the Vita itself, Lumines Electronic Symphony is slick and at times irresistible, and well worth experiencing for yourself. Still, we can't help but feel that the $40 price is a tad steep for what it offers. Unless you absolutely can't wait to participate in this carnival of light, it's probably wise to wait until the price settles a bit.

Syndicate has a lot of ideas, but seems unwilling to let some of them out of the bag, instead parading them around at key moments, while some mechanics, like running through weak walls, never amounting to much.

Manipulating your character through each stage feels tight and responsive with the Vita's analog stick, making it possible to make mid-air adjustments and pixel-perfect jumps. The game also looks just as good as it did on consoles, retaining its smooth frame rate and crisp 2D animations.

If this if your first contact with this unique take on a beloved genre, you'll find several hours' worth of fast-paced strategy waiting for you in Anomaly's agreeable warzone.

For a few bucks, the first episode of the Walking Dead lets you slip into the well-traveled waters of the zombie blight and experience it from a new and interesting perspective.