Gaming Target's Scores

  • Games
For 898 reviews, this publication has graded:
  • 68% higher than the average critic
  • 5% same as the average critic
  • 27% lower than the average critic
On average, this publication grades 4.7 points higher than other critics. (0-100 point scale)
Average Game review score: 78
Highest review score:
Critic Score 100
Lowest review score:
Critic Score 10
Score distribution:
  1. Negative: 38 out of 898
898 game reviews
    • Metascore: 89
    • Critic Score 89
    Fable 2 is a great example of developers listening to its audience, as it delivers on the original promises of the first game and brings back everything we loved about it in spades.
    • Metascore: 76
    • Critic Score 89
    A huge demo machine that manages to show gamers what the controller is capable of while providing an entertaining single-player and multiplayer mode.
    • Metascore: 69
    • Critic Score 89
    From collecting stars in a Sonic-like fashion to helping Mr. Bean find his lost children, players of all ages will become enthralled with its high level of gameplay, addictive nature, and high amount of replayability- especially if you love playing with balls.
    • Metascore: 74
    • Critic Score 89
    If you’re tired of the unrealistic nature inherent in titles such as "Battlefield 2" or the "Call of Duty" series and crave something more authentic, Armed Assault just may be what you’ve been waiting for. Put simply, you just won’t find anything in the simulation realm comparable to this addictive game.
    • Metascore: 86
    • Critic Score 89
    With its combination of an enthralling story, interesting blend of gameplay, beautiful graphics, and a gripping soundtrack Valkyria Chronicles is right up there with Final Fantasy Tactics as one of the best SRPGs to ever be released.
    • Metascore: 79
    • Critic Score 89
    It's a golf game. There's very little you can do to make it awful or incredible, but this latest installment in the Tiger line found a way to improve realism and enjoyment in a product that will be subject to its most intense scrutiny to date.
    • Metascore: 88
    • Critic Score 89
    If you're new to the Call of Duty series, you're in for a real treat with the single player, and the multiplayer will welcome you with open arms. If you used to like the series and have either gotten fatigued with the template or turned off by the last entry, this game deserves at least a rental, but I'd recommend a purchase. If you simply love the franchise, period, you've probably already prestiged once or twice already devoting countless hours to the online portions.
    • Metascore: 87
    • Critic Score 89
    If you're new to the Call of Duty series, you're in for a real treat with the single player, and the multiplayer will welcome you with open arms. If you used to like the series and have either gotten fatigued with the template or turned off by the last entry, this game deserves at least a rental, but I'd recommend a purchase. If you simply love the franchise, period, you've probably already prestiged once or twice already devoting countless hours to the online portions.
    • Metascore: 86
    • Critic Score 88
    Mythic Entertainment may have created the best MMORPG based on an outside property. The universe of Warhammer fits perfectly into a game of this nature, and was implemented by the folks at Mythic with precision and dedication.
    • Metascore: 81
    • Critic Score 88
    It lacks the name brand value of EA Sports and the low price of "MLB 2K5," but MLB 2006 is a damn good baseball game and in many ways superior to the bigger named hardball games on PS2.
    • Metascore: 79
    • Critic Score 88
    The game takes the thrilling aspects of the finest title in the lineup, "Twisted Metal 2," shrinks it down onto the portable screen and adds some fantastic multiplayer modes to boot.
    • Metascore: 82
    • Critic Score 88
    But the thing that makes Most Wanted stand out is the incredible pursuit aspects. If the reason why the cops were left out of NFSU is because they were planning Most Wanted, all is forgiven.
    • Metascore: 86
    • Critic Score 88
    Sure, FNR3 has some small elements such as an abundance of advertising in the arenas and some ever-so-minor clipping issues, but it is really hard to deny the clarity and quality presented in these fights.
    • Metascore: 77
    • Critic Score 88
    Brain Age isn’t really a game and it’s gimmick will eventually wear thin. But it’s also an excellent piece of software for those that like a good puzzle game.
    • Metascore: 74
    • Critic Score 88
    With Big Brain Academy (and Brain Age) you’ve got just as interested in exercising my mental muscles as I am in flexing my trigger finger.
    • Metascore: 78
    • Critic Score 88
    Taking the PSP completely out of the equation, Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories is definitely a smaller, less involving game than San Andreas was, and for many, regardless of price, it won't be a worthy purchase.
    • Metascore: 75
    • Critic Score 88
    Culdcept Saga does have one major addition over its predecessor: online play. While local multiplayer is still an option, Namco Bandai has included four-player online play in Culdcept Saga and it works like a dream.
    • Metascore: 84
    • Critic Score 88
    Seasoned veterans will greatly appreciate the authentic presentation and dynamic control system, with the ability to perform nearly any conceivable move, from your various hop steps to your head fakes to your stutter steps.
    • Metascore: 80
    • Critic Score 88
    The redesigned gameplay helps the player become enthralled into the world of Trauma Center and definitely shows the potential of the Wii.
    • Metascore: 80
    • Critic Score 88
    It may not be the flight simulator that many people may have been hoping for, but it doesn’t detract from being an enjoyable arcade shooter. Highly recommended.
    • Metascore: 89
    • Critic Score 88
    World in Conflict's single-player campaign has plenty of polish, but it won't tax most players' tactical abilities or attention spans: its fourteen missions can be completed in well under an hour each.
    • Metascore: 82
    • Critic Score 88
    However, Mario Kart Wii is second on the series' podium as it rides alongside the N64 version’s tried-and-true track quality, offers the online play that the 64DD never brought around and sports superior graphics that make its 11-year-old counterpart look very dated on today's big-screen televisions.
    • Metascore: 83
    • Critic Score 88
    DS owners should not miss the opportunity to play this great game.
    • Metascore: 74
    • Critic Score 88
    Katamari Forever is the penultimate game in the series thus far; a collection of the best levels combined in a modest port of Beautiful Katamari along with the introduction of yet another awesome new character makes for a game that rekindles the love for rolling.
    • Metascore: 85
    • Critic Score 88
    Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light is definitely a rebirth for the Tomb Raider series. A meaty puzzle-based platformer that will definitely have fans asking for more, it is the perfect conclusion to this year's Summer of Arcade and 1200 Microsoft Points ($15) well spent.
    • Metascore: 84
    • Critic Score 88
    Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light is definitely a rebirth for the Tomb Raider series. A meaty puzzle-based platformer that will definitely have fans asking for more, it is $15 well spent.
    • Metascore: 86
    • Critic Score 88
    If you haven't picked up Unwound Future yet, do it. If you haven't played any of these games yet, what are you waiting for?
    • Metascore: 80
    • Critic Score 88
    Despite some of its flaws Star Wars: Battlefront delivers what it promises – massive Star Wars engagements that drop you right into the films.
    • Metascore: 85
    • Critic Score 88
    A great story that fleshes out some beloved characters, a simplistic but amazing fighting engine and perfectly captured atmosphere makes The Warriors a great addition to any action fan's Xbox library.
    • Metascore: 83
    • Critic Score 88
    Essentially a great expansion pack that adds some cool and funny new content to what is already a top-tier RPG. The new content is basically window dressing – albeit excellent window dressing.
    • Metascore: 81
    • Critic Score 88
    It is the long-awaited return to the bloody joy of MK's glory days – and as a life-long fan, I am happy to say welcome back.
    • Metascore: 74
    • Critic Score 88
    Unfortunately, most of these videos have terrible sound quality and it can be hard to make out what the group is saying half the time.
    • Metascore: 87
    • Critic Score 88
    With this sequel, Visceral Games has masterfully expanded on the first Dead Space. They've revved up the series with tougher guns, a bigger setting, and online multiplayer, but kept the spirit and, most importantly, the scares of the original in tact.
    • Metascore: 89
    • Critic Score 88
    With this sequel, Visceral Games has masterfully expanded on the first Dead Space. They've revved up the series with tougher guns, a bigger setting, and online multiplayer, but kept the spirit and, most importantly, the scares of the original in tact.
    • Metascore: 90
    • Critic Score 88
    With this sequel, Visceral Games has masterfully expanded on the first Dead Space. They've revved up the series with tougher guns, a bigger setting, and online multiplayer, but kept the spirit and, most importantly, the scares of the original in tact.
    • Metascore: 89
    • Critic Score 88
    Like many of the fictional detectives of the era, LA Noire is flawed, but it gets the job done. More importantly, if leaves you hoping for more adventures.
    • Metascore: 85
    • Critic Score 87
    Laden with a few differences here and there, no horror fan...in fact, no GAMER can be without this third instalment in one of Konami's best franchises on the market.
    • Metascore: 73
    • Critic Score 87
    With one disc that's got a nice plethora of new (new controls, new interface, new parts, etc.), and another disc that's got old made into new (not to mention those many unlockables to top that sweet cherry), you've really got one of the best and broadest Armored Core games on your hands that you could ever dream of.
    • Metascore: 81
    • Critic Score 87
    Whether your time with it lasts a few hours, a whole week or a month, OutRun 2006 will not disappoint.
    • Metascore: 86
    • Critic Score 87
    While the 2400 MS point price is a bit on the high side, the content manages to provide more swashbuckling, looting and questing for those who couldn’t get enough from the retail release.
    • Metascore: 84
    • Critic Score 87
    In most ways, Borderlands is a first-person shooter that's really designed towards RPG fans, specifically the Diablo-styled hack & slash games. Regular shooter fans will find a lot to enjoy here however, thanks to the solid shooter mechanics.
    • Metascore: 83
    • Critic Score 87
    In most ways, Borderlands is a first-person shooter that's really designed towards RPG fans, specifically the Diablo-styled hack & slash games.
    • Metascore: 80
    • Critic Score 87
    This year's Tiger Woods isn't a drastic change from last year, but yet the return of the 3-click meter changes the game all the same.
    • Metascore: 87
    • Critic Score 87
    In spite of the negative aspects of the game, I highly recommend the interesting and unique experience that is Heavy Rain.
    • Metascore: 81
    • Critic Score 87
    The missions and activities are fun, and the shooting action is perfectly tuned. Even as a serious imitator, Saint's Row manages to transcend its plagiaristic tone and delivers a genuinely engaging experience.
    • Metascore: 78
    • Critic Score 87
    Gamers complain that games today are too easy and lead players by the hand; in Conker's case, it's the exact opposite where players are pretty much left out in the cold without a clue or a pot to – well, you know.
    • Metascore: 86
    • Critic Score 87
    It's videogames at their most base and most enjoyable.
    • Metascore: 83
    • Critic Score 87
    This game doesn't really do anything that you haven't seen before in many other action games available, but this is one of the few titles that manage to do all the key ingredients really well.
    • Metascore: 83
    • Critic Score 87
    Bulletstorm is the NFL Blitz of first-person shooters.
    • Metascore: 84
    • Critic Score 87
    Bulletstorm is the NFL Blitz of first-person shooters.
    • Metascore: 76
    • Critic Score 86
    It knows where you work, so you can't run. It knows where you live, so you can't hide. So open up your room already and say, "Ahhhh!" Or would you rather they do it for you, sissy?
    • Metascore: 71
    • Critic Score 86
    Touch-screen usage is top notch, production values are high, and the nostalgia just pours in once you start playing.
    • Metascore: 72
    • Critic Score 86
    Sure the police AI can be highly questionable, the visuals are pretty blah as is the sound, but on the track, 5-1-0 is a good time on the go, and is a marked improvement from "Rivals."
    • Metascore: 64
    • Critic Score 86
    Though in general a direct Dynasty Warriors clone, Devil Kings does try to take this familiar play style and make it something different, though it sacrifices the things that made Dynasty Warriors so popular amongst PlayStation 2 owners.
    • Metascore: 80
    • Critic Score 86
    It might not be the same sort of revitalization that "Resident Evil" got last year, but make no mistake, this is a very good game with plenty of thrills, twists, turns, and thanks to some great stages and tons of personality, Legend doesn't just bring TR back, it will make you forget everything about those old, dusty PlayStation games as well.
    • Metascore: 85
    • Critic Score 86
    The game has some annoyances with its level-up system and minor problems with load times and survivor AI, but the ways in which you can kill the zombies are endless, and the story and presentation actually creates a narrative more compelling than most would expect.
    • Metascore: 85
    • Critic Score 86
    Virtua Fighter 5 may not go down as the most charismatic fighting game around, but it gets it done in the gameplay department, which is what matters most anyway.
    • Metascore: 54
    • Critic Score 86
    For fans of Tokyo Xtreme Racer, Import Tuner Challenge is a must-buy.
    • Metascore: 85
    • Critic Score 86
    With Super Paper Mario, Intelligent Systems has crafted a game that will appeal to fans of both the platforming and RPG genres.
    • Metascore: 85
    • Critic Score 86
    Professor Layton and the Curios Village is a great game for anyone regardless of the age due to the nature of their game.
    • Metascore: 75
    • Critic Score 86
    Folklore is one of those games that might seem familiar on the surface, but rest assured there's nothing like it on the PS3. The story might take a while to unfold, but the payoff is there.
    • Metascore: 88
    • Critic Score 86
    NHL 10, like its predecessors, puts the emphasis on realism instead of trying to grow its base and provides a couple of physical improvements for existing fans. That said, while the series hasn’t advanced in the last 12 months as much as it did 24 months ago, that’s only because NHL 09 was that revolutionary.
    • Metascore: 88
    • Critic Score 86
    NHL 10, like its predecessors, puts the emphasis on realism instead of trying to grow its base and provides a couple of physical improvements for existing fans. That said, while the series hasn’t advanced in the last 12 months as much as it did 24 months ago, that’s only because NHL 09 was that revolutionary.
    • Metascore: 92
    • Critic Score 86
    The game has issues, and isn't a huge improvement over Forza 2 (aside from the really good front end presentation), but it's still a fun and lengthy simulation of racing for those of us still into that stuff.
    • Metascore: 90
    • Critic Score 86
    For the most part its gameplay tweaks feel natural, a refresh of the core Civilization gameplay. After twenty years, there is still something very addictive about clicking "next turn." For a gamer, Civilization is a standard, an essential.
    • Metascore: 77
    • Critic Score 86
    Some people treat action games of this sort as a distraction; others revisit them obsessively, always looking to beat a high score. No matter how deeply you plan to dive in, you'll be getting a lot of game for your $15 with Dead Nation.
    • Metascore: 77
    • Critic Score 86
    You can immediately tell that Call of Cthulhu: Dark Corners of the Earth was created as a labor of love. It defies convention in favor of creating a videogame experience that is a worthy heir to the Lovecraft name.
    • Metascore: 86
    • Critic Score 86
    If you are interested in casual play, you're much more likely to enjoy Super Street Fighter 4 or Super Street Fighter 2 Turbo HD Remix, both of which are already available on PS3 and 360. If you didn't find joy in the fireball hurling antics of other SF titles, this one won't sway you either. You should probably hold off for Soul Calibur V. If you are a fighting enthusiast with an Arcade Stick, a lot of patience and a vast hunger for competitiveness, you'd be hard pressed to find a better experience than Third Strike.
    • Metascore: 82
    • Critic Score 86
    The versatile gameplay, muscular pacing, and addictive Raid mode make it one of the most well-rounded entries in the series.
    • Metascore: 72
    • Critic Score 85
    It doesn’t feel quite as polished as Konami’s PS2 Contra titles, but the bosses are large and feature a similar robotic look that many of the Contra bosses are known for.
    • Metascore: 82
    • Critic Score 85
    The things it does well (environment, story, character) definitely outweigh the shortcomings (tough ranged combat, uneven framerates). The multiplayer has the makings of a classic, and GSC is evidently working at improving it, since their first patch was mostly multiplayer fixes.
    • Metascore: 82
    • Critic Score 85
    It’s both unique and rehashed, and though it’s a solid RPG, not everyone will get into it.
    • Metascore: 84
    • Critic Score 85
    It succeeds mostly because instead of merely aping the movie, it instead designs a world that the familiar characters blend right into, and adds a ton of backstory to what could be paper-thin 'heroes.'
    • Metascore: 85
    • Critic Score 85
    It presents a great challenge and a unique, if cheesy, style that has appeal, and if it does appeal to you, you’ll love it.
    • Metascore: 83
    • Critic Score 85
    Adventure game lovers will not be disappointed by the game play elements, and fans of "Shenmue" will find plenty to like here.
    • Metascore: 80
    • Critic Score 85
    A great wrestling game still, but one that is falling into uninspired rehash territory very quickly.
    • Metascore: 83
    • Critic Score 85
    This may be the greatest Hulk game ever established. With a number of underachieving variables, it's just not the one that will change comic book gaming forever.
    • Metascore: 78
    • Critic Score 85
    It's a toss up between this and Hot Shots Golf for supremacy on the PSP, but if realistic presentation takes precedence over quirky anime-inspired design, Tiger is the game, load times or not.
    • Metascore: 76
    • Critic Score 85
    While not a Jak and Daxter game in the traditional sense, this combat racer does drill together a nice driving game that doesn't fall apart like a cheap engine would.
    • Metascore: 74
    • Critic Score 85
    What the game does offer instead is a cute fantasy with intriguing twists (even if you have to sift through the crazy nonsense to get there), and a butt load of characters that can be yours if you seriously want to endure the exerting challenge of grabbing as many of them as you possibly can.
    • Metascore: 81
    • Critic Score 85
    I implore you, don’t skip out on this one because it’s ‘too hard’ or ‘too weird’. The sheer anxiety of carrying out the surgeries with accuracy and haste is a thrilling affair, one that needs to be experienced by all gamers.
    • Metascore: 74
    • Critic Score 85
    With its non-movie style approach, there's still repeating and the frustration that comes with it in Ultimate Spider-Man.
    • Metascore: 81
    • Critic Score 85
    NBA 2K6 is, without question, the rookie of the year. It will be interesting to see how well this rookie will improve his game for next season.
    • Metascore: 74
    • Critic Score 85
    HDTV owners will be blown away with every body blow delivered. Everyone that doesn’t expect a handful of new features over previous football seasons should be more than satisfied with the game’s unparalleled presentation.
    • Metascore: 79
    • Critic Score 85
    Players that get motion sick easily will definitely want to stay away from the game as perspective changes rapidly and frequently.
    • Metascore: 86
    • Critic Score 85
    It's animals: A whole town filled of animals you'll be exchanging words with to get things and to get things done. New items to collect, new bugs, fishes, and more to score, new characters to meet, new things to do, and at last online takes Animal Crossing a step ahead the previous iteration failed to accomplish.
    • Metascore: 75
    • Critic Score 85
    It captures the magic and provides the quirky, unique gameplay in portable form as faithfully as humanly possible. And there's nothing wrong with that.
    • Metascore: 79
    • Critic Score 85
    Since Capcom gave it a new splash of paint, remixed the music and added a few extras, rookies as well as veterans should appreciate the update.
    • Metascore: 73
    • Critic Score 85
    They look, sound and feel just like the originals.
    • Metascore: 83
    • Critic Score 85
    The added features flesh out things, but much of the focus was on this and not any sort of new gameplay enhancements or systems. The result is still a solid game of baseball, just a familiar one.
    • Metascore: 82
    • Critic Score 85
    The annoying police system, relatively lifeless environment and weak engine sounds hurt the illusion of living the dream life but luckily, don’t destroy it completely.
    • Metascore: 86
    • Critic Score 85
    It’s funny how a five-dollar (more or less) game comes along and shows how simple games can still offer great gameplay, slick presentation, and long-lasting value. You really can’t go wrong with Geometry Wars.
    • Metascore: 74
    • Critic Score 85
    The game definitely has been slimmed down from the massive bulk of Gran Turismo 4, making sure to not drown this new audience in confusion, but at the same time it's deep enough that those who've come to expect a seemingly never-ending game should be satisfied even though it definitely lacks the depth Polyphony is known for.
    • Metascore: 70
    • Critic Score 85
    The game isn’t half as technical as, say, Capcom’s Street Fighter Alpha 3 Max, but where SFA3 was complex, DBZ is just more accessible.
    • Metascore: 83
    • Critic Score 85
    A breath of fresh air from the remakes and rehashes that appear on PSP from week to week. As unchallenging as it may be to complete levels, collecting every single fruit flower and exploring the environments provides reason to go back into 40 stages of this charming time waster.
    • Metascore: 77
    • Critic Score 85
    The gameplay's execution, balance, and hidden depths are simply too rare to be overlooked by fans of economic-based strategy games, railroad enthusiast, and Sid Meier fans.
    • Metascore: 78
    • Critic Score 85
    Metal Slug Anthology is the ultimate collection of the seven most intense run-and-gun video games ever made.
    • Metascore: 79
    • Critic Score 85
    Ultimately Street Fighter Alpha Anthology is a treasure trove of SFA memorabilia. Sure, there is quite a bit more Capcom could have done to get the collection just right, but what they have given us is very good.
    • Metascore: 91
    • Critic Score 85
    The diversity allowed by Mass Effect's character creation and leveling system is also a superb addition to the squad-based combat and keeps thing fresh as new character are introduced or removed from your squad.
    • Metascore: 83
    • Critic Score 85
    Final Fantasy XIII will probably not go down as one of the high points in the series. However, on its own, FFXIII is still a really good and enjoyable game with a fantastic battle system and gorgeous graphics.
    • Metascore: 78
    • Critic Score 85
    Ridge Racer 7 is certainly not a system seller, not when the game is readily available on other platforms, especially a 360 version that's somewhat similar and only $20 these days.
    • Metascore: 79
    • Critic Score 85
    Not only does the Skill Stick help you feel a level of control and immersion not seen in other hockey games, but the presentation also helps convey a great sense of atmosphere that brings EA back towards its simulation roots.
    • Metascore: 72
    • Critic Score 85
    It’s a little more technical than Budokai, but nowhere near as technical as the hype would lead you to believe.
    • Metascore: 84
    • Critic Score 85
    DEFCON is fun, challenging, and addictive. Offering the depth that strategy fans want, and a level of accessibility that opens the game to all players.
    • Metascore: 82
    • Critic Score 85
    Halo Wars is the best real-time-strategy game that I’ve played on a console, period.
    • Metascore: 81
    • Critic Score 85
    The Warriors for PlayStation Portable captures the 1979 Walter Hill movie in a near-perfect port of its 2005 PS2 and Xbox counterparts.
    • Metascore: 78
    • Critic Score 85
    Gurumin: A Monstrous Adventure gets a lot of things right, even though it gets a lot of its cues from other adventure games, namely Zelda or Kingdom Hearts. On top of that, its more childish overtones may prevent older gamers from giving it a chance.
    • Metascore: 81
    • Critic Score 85
    This year's game isn't drastically different from NCAA 07, but NCAA Football 08 is still a lot better than its predecessor. Added depth means you'll play a ton longer, and tightened up gameplay makes for a game that plays much better than before.
    • Metascore: 84
    • Critic Score 85
    Throw in some of the best cheesy voice acting there is, dames with accented mammaries, and the industrial hard rock soundtrack to get us pumped and you’ve got the complete Devil May Cry experience we all know and love.
    • Metascore: 73
    • Critic Score 85
    The Saboteur is one of those games that gains points due to its atmosphere and setting, making up for any shortcomings that might pop up due to the fact that the game is yet another open-world sandbox game, or if you want to be more cynical, Mercenaries 2 in a World War II skin (which it admittedly is, just way more polished).
    • Metascore: 72
    • Critic Score 85
    The Saboteur is one of those games that gains points due to its atmosphere and setting, making up for any shortcomings that might pop up due to the fact that the game is yet another open-world sandbox game, or if you want to be more cynical, Mercenaries 2 in a World War II skin (which it admittedly is, just way more polished).
    • Metascore: 76
    • Critic Score 85
    There are a few shortcomings: although the maps are gorgeous, many of them look and feel a bit too similar. The gameplay can also get repetitive with only two game types.
    • Metascore: 66
    • Critic Score 85
    Thinking gamers will appreciate the fact that Theatre of War presents them with a series of tactical problems rather than simply a chance to rack up the body counts. And anyone who's been jaded by the ease of other mainstream RTS franchises will enjoy the fact that this is a game that doesn't coddle its players.
    • Metascore: 78
    • Critic Score 85
    Fans of Phoenix Wright can rest assured that Apollo Justice more the lives up to the role as an Ace Attorney.
    • Metascore: 87
    • Critic Score 85
    Bottom line, if you are a fan of shoot 'em ups or just do not feel like dragging out the Dreamcast, you will not be disappointed in this updated version of a classic game.
    • Metascore: 65
    • Critic Score 85
    The dialogue is lighthearted and funny enough that newcomers to the genre might stick around and the difficulty of the quest is enough that already-made fans will enjoy it just as much as the previous one.
    • Metascore: 85
    • Critic Score 85
    Even for all of its faults, Madden NFL 2009 is still a damn good football game and that's what's important.
    • Metascore: 81
    • Critic Score 85
    Echochrome isn't just for smart people who adore the classical violin music that plays in the background, but it is for people who enjoy brainteasers and puzzle games.
    • Metascore: 85
    • Critic Score 85
    Guitar Hero has the more innovative drum and guitar hardware and a promising custom music feature. But, snazzier instruments and a tricked-out music studio don’t guarantee triple platinum success.
    • Metascore: 84
    • Critic Score 85
    Guitar Hero has the more innovative drum and guitar hardware and a promising custom music feature.
    • Metascore: 83
    • Critic Score 85
    If you’re looking for a game with fun-to-learn controls and if you’re tired of the fictionalized fighting in the recent Street Fighter IV or, dare I say it’s fake, WWE Legends of Wrestlemania, UFC 2009 Undisputed might be the true knockout you’re waiting for.
    • Metascore: 84
    • Critic Score 85
    If you’re looking for a game with fun-to-learn controls and if you’re tired of the fictionalized fighting in the recent Street Fighter IV or, dare I say it’s fake, WWE Legends of Wrestlemania, UFC 2009 Undisputed might be the true knockout you’re waiting for.
    • Metascore: 77
    • Critic Score 85
    As the name The Last Guy suggests, saving mankind is a one person job, so there’s no multiplayer. That means that once you’ve completed the game, the only reason to run around on these real-life aerial playgrounds is to increase your score and, in turn, your position on the game’s online world ranking list.
    • Metascore: 82
    • Critic Score 85
    With its rampant hilarity and imaginative puzzles, 8-Bit is Enough is a great capstone to the Cool Games for Attractive People series.
    • Metascore: 78
    • Critic Score 85
    With up to twelve fast-moving, bite-sized soldiers scurrying around 2D maps, using jetpacks, avoiding explosions and nailing the perfect shot on the run, Crash Commando is the latest must-download online addiction exclusively for PS3.
    • Metascore: 87
    • Critic Score 85
    This unconventional game movement is officially part of a growing trend on the PS3 and could be its key to success instead of a major "killer app" like Metal Gear Solid 4 or Killzone 2 as you'd expect.
    • Metascore: 83
    • Critic Score 85
    Overall, Battlefield 1943 successfully condenses down to the essentials what makes the franchise fun.
    • Metascore: 75
    • Critic Score 85
    While X-Men Origins: Wolverine is not a perfect game, Raven can easily lay claim to having created the best game ever starring Wolverine.
    • Metascore: 83
    • Critic Score 85
    On one hand, Halo 3: ODST is a no-brainer purchase for fans, thanks to the new story and the addictive Firefight mode. It’s a classically fun Halo experience but on the other hand, if you’re looking for something truly different or innovative, you won’t find it here.
    • Metascore: 82
    • Critic Score 85
    Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Minis March Again is a great game that shows that Nintendo is slowly but surely becoming more comfortable with the idea of downloadble games.
    • Metascore: 86
    • Critic Score 85
    With a decent storyline, hundreds of quests and missions, along with downloadable content the game could easily take anyone over 100+ hours to beat it; and that's not including the game's multiple endings.
    • Metascore: 87
    • Critic Score 85
    If you're looking for the best RPGs of the Hi-Def Era, this game certainly ranks near the top alongside Lost Odyssey and Valkyria Chronicles.
    • Metascore: 73
    • Critic Score 85
    Dante’s Inferno has taken a bit of flak from the gaming community for borrowing a lot (and I do mean a lot) of gameplay elements from God of War. But when it’s all said and done, Dante’s Inferno is a fun experience.
    • Metascore: 75
    • Critic Score 85
    Dante’s Inferno has taken a bit of flak from the gaming community for borrowing a lot (and I do mean a lot) of gameplay elements from God of War. But when it’s all said and done, Dante’s Inferno is a fun experience.
    • Metascore: 82
    • Critic Score 85
    Final Fantasy XIII will probably not go down as one of the high points in the series. However, on its own, FFXIII is still a really good and enjoyable game with a fantastic battle system and gorgeous graphics.
    • Metascore: 68
    • Critic Score 85
    With an intriguing murder mystery and a cast of locals that make the place seem like an open-air asylum, the game is enjoyable from start to finish despite the hassles of battle getting in the way all too often.
    • Metascore: 76
    • Critic Score 85
    High Moon Studios managed to create a living & breathing world – I know, kind of ironic for a game about robots, isn't it – that did justice to the source material.
    • Metascore: 77
    • Critic Score 85
    Transformers: War For Cybertron is damn near everything I would have asked for from a Transformers video game. High Moon Studios managed to create a living & breathing world – I know, kind of ironic for a game about robots, isn't it – that did justice to the source material.
    • Metascore: 80
    • Critic Score 85
    Space Invaders: Infinity Gene is a fantastic new twist on the Space Invaders theme.
    • Metascore: 88
    • Critic Score 85
    The realism is improving with every new game that EA turns out, making the game more and more enjoyable for soccer fans and general sports video game enthusiasts alike.
    • Metascore: 89
    • Critic Score 85
    It would take some effort to screw this franchise up, but just a little more effort on advancing the gameplay would have been nice.
    • Metascore: 77
    • Critic Score 85
    A World of Keflings is a great improvement over the original game.
    • Metascore: 82
    • Critic Score 85
    There are absolutely no questions about the future of the franchise now; in fact, I can't wait for the next sequel, which is something that fans haven't been able to say for a long time.
    • Metascore: 83
    • Critic Score 85
    Stacking is one of the most charming games you'll ever find, a refreshing break from the ubiquitous shooters flooding the market. It may not have much replay value, but you will still enjoy your stay in the whimsical, unique world of Charlie and his fellow stacking dolls.
    • Metascore: 84
    • Critic Score 85
    Stacking is one of the most charming games you'll ever find, a refreshing break from the ubiquitous shooters flooding the market. It may not have much replay value, but you will still enjoy your stay in the whimsical, unique world of Charlie and his fellow stacking dolls.
    • Metascore: 84
    • Critic Score 85
    Even though I was only interested in Outland for its looks at the onset, playing the game gave way to one of the more memorable gaming experiences I've had in recent months. From the growing complexity of the level design, to the vibrant and simple presentation, to the way in which developers Housemarque were able to create a universal mythology that truly speaks to the hero inside all of us, Outland has set the bar for downloadable titles in 2011.
    • Metascore: 70
    • Critic Score 84
    Interesting weapons, plot, admirable graphics, and four personalities you can not only be, but work together with drive Killzone in certain ways no other First Person Shooter has done before.
    • Metascore: 70
    • Critic Score 84
    Built for those who want a bit more 'pick up and play' in their racing simulations, and it does that fairly well.
    • Metascore: 67
    • Critic Score 84
    Where the Clock Tower series always employed its notion for being the victim in a stalker's nightmarish world in a very mundane and ordinary fashion, Haunting Ground does so with a zing.
    • Metascore: 81
    • Critic Score 84
    does a fine job of taking advantage of the features only the Nintendo DS has and, mixed in with an addictive batch of games, this is probably the best DS game out there right now
    • Metascore: 87
    • Critic Score 84
    I think most high-school kids would get a kick out of this game, regardless of whether they can play GTA or not.
    • Metascore: 84
    • Critic Score 84
    The gameplay itself is perfect for a video game – fast paced, twitch action that's incredibly addictive and simple all the same.
    • Metascore: 81
    • Critic Score 84
    The single player campaign uses the old school twitch shooter style that is still enjoyable, but gets repetitive and is ultimately unsatisfying in these days of more sophisticated shooters.
    • Metascore: 75
    • Critic Score 84
    Top Spin 2 usurps its originator in every regard. The amount of detail is breathtaking at times and the career mode exhibits a vast amount of depth, not to mention the open-ended create-a-player feature.
    • Metascore: 80
    • Critic Score 84
    The story works decently, though it’s nowhere near as spectacular as, say, Metal Gear Solid 3, but I suppose few games are. The series still has a way to go to iron out all of the bugs, but Metal Gear Acid 2 is definitely a step in the right direction.
    • Metascore: 79
    • Critic Score 84
    While the story itself doesn’t work that well in some areas because of moronic dialogue, confusing logic and characters you would rather strangle than help, the gameplay is unique and generally entertaining.
    • Metascore: 82
    • Critic Score 84
    It doesn't quite reach the heights of Chronicles of Riddick, but The Darkness is still one fine first-person shooter/adventure game.
    • Metascore: 85
    • Critic Score 84
    The side-quests add a lot of replay value to the game even after completing the story mode.
    • Metascore: 81
    • Critic Score 84
    The new environmental hotspots and graphical polish help give Xbox 360 owners something worth checking out, even though this series has just about reached the end of its arc.
    • Metascore: 92
    • Critic Score 84
    Putting aside the lack of online multiplayer, frustrating DLC structure, and lack of wireless controller, GHII still merits recommendation for most users.
    • Metascore: 72
    • Critic Score 84
    Mortal Kombat vs DC Universe is a solid fighter with good mechanics and a great story mode.
    • Metascore: 86
    • Critic Score 84
    If you are an RPG player then you should not skip out on The Witcher because it has it all, visuals, audio, gameplay, story, and scantly clad women/dryads/hookers/etc.
    • Metascore: 87
    • Critic Score 84
    To say that Treasure has done it again is a bit redundant at this point. Treasure always does it again. And Sin and Punishment: Star Successor is no exception.
    • Metascore: 86
    • Critic Score 84
    God of War: Ghost of Sparta fills in another piece of Kratos' past. With more innovative gameplay mechanics and brand new magic and weapons, it's entertaining and engaging, especially for fans of the franchise.
    • Metascore: 76
    • Critic Score 84
    It is the perfect venue to bridge the story between the two PS2 titles.
    • Metascore: 66
    • Critic Score 84
    A classy collection of four types of poker as well as blackjack, slots and video poker. The game's only real downfall is requiring multiple cartridges for multiplayer.
    • Metascore: 71
    • Critic Score 84
    It still has some blaring issues (that "unpolished" feel really sticks with you) but the coolness and guilty pleasure-ness of it make it well worth the time and money.
    • Metascore: 78
    • Critic Score 84
    Ultramix 2 has great graphics, it has a huge selection of cool tracks, and it has tons of multi-player features both off and online to see who the ultimate dancer truly is!
    • Metascore: 84
    • Critic Score 84
    Purists of the series may feel it has gone in too much of a "console" direction with its pacing and style, but the consistency and quality of this game can't be denied.
    • Metascore: 80
    • Critic Score 84
    If you own and still play the Nintendo 64 version, I still believe that it is worthwhile to pick up the GameCube version because of the updated graphics, new power shots, characters and courts.
    • Metascore: 84
    • Critic Score 84
    Crysis 2 may not be the new killer app, but it's the complete package when it comes to shooters.
    • Metascore: 85
    • Critic Score 84
    Crysis 2 may not be the new killer app, but it's the complete package when it comes to shooters.
    • Metascore: 86
    • Critic Score 84
    Crysis 2 may not be the new killer app, but it's the complete package when it comes to shooters.
    • Metascore: 77
    • Critic Score 84
    Even though it's short, pricey and put together by some sort of writing B-team, Raam's Shadow is the best Gears of War 3 DLC yet.
    • Metascore: 76
    • Critic Score 83
    A decent combat flight sim that's fairly easy to get into, and can become quite immersive once you can get into the flow of the game.
    • Metascore: 68
    • Critic Score 83
    It is, however, one of the best unplugged titles of 2005 yet. Given the problems between the lack of originality compared to the first one and the problematic AI, doesn't level out Rise of the Kasai's success with that of its former entry.
    • Metascore: 83
    • Critic Score 83
    There’s a challenging and lengthy career mode based around “street cred,” a decent online experience, and some good customizability on the game’s many speed machines.
    • Metascore: 83
    • Critic Score 83
    It's surprisingly robust and impressive, especially compared to its competition.
    • Metascore: 81
    • Critic Score 83
    The presentation may be a tad simplistic and the options a bit sparse, but the lower retail price makes this experience worth checking out.
    • Metascore: 79
    • Critic Score 83
    Instead of a sports game stripped to its bare essentials that’s ever-so-popular among debuts on a console, NCAA Football 07 has depth written all over it. EA Tiburon has added so many features to its college series, from the stifling number of animations, to the altered kicking system, to the fresh mini-games--the list goes on and on.
    • Metascore: 83
    • Critic Score 83
    Combining realistic graphics – on par with MotorStorm, no less – with realistic yet arcadey gameplay, you really can’t go amiss with this awesome release.
    • Metascore: 85
    • Critic Score 83
    In terms of playability F.E.A.R. really couldn’t be much better, there’s really not a lot more to be said about it. If you played the PC version there’s not much new here. If not, however, sit down, turn the lights out and scare yourself silly.
    • Metascore: 76
    • Critic Score 83
    It’s not as classic as "Takedown" or "Revenge," so it’s a step backwards, but still it’s an enjoyable racer that has it’s problems, but it can be as addictive as the series has been in the past.
    • Metascore: 71
    • Critic Score 83
    This was the first time in a long time that I felt like I went on a real traditional RPG adventure.
    • Metascore: 73
    • Critic Score 83
    Beautiful Katamari is a great game for fans, but not something that will interest those who didn't like the first three.
    • Metascore: 81
    • Critic Score 83
    With a car (and motorcycle) list that pushes 50 vehicles, tons of customization options for each ride, and a well-realized recreation of LA to race through, this edition of Midnight Club is a worthy debut for the series on the current generation of consoles.
    • Metascore: 69
    • Critic Score 83
    The Wonderful End of the World has everything going for it. It's a fun game with a distinctive look and a fun soundtrack. It's a bit short, but the levels are replayable as you try to unlock the bonus level or try for perfect A+ grades across the board.
    • Metascore: 68
    • Critic Score 83
    Fans of action games would be well to seek out the game and Spider-Man fans should consider Spider-Man: Web of Shadows a must play.
    • Metascore: 73
    • Critic Score 83
    While X-Men Origins: Wolverine is not a perfect game, Raven can easily lay claim to having created the best game ever starring Wolverine.
    • Metascore: 87
    • Critic Score 83
    Though some parts of the game tend to be frustrating in how poorly they were handled, Dirt 2 is still a good, fun racing game in a genre that's underrepresented on every console.
    • Metascore: 87
    • Critic Score 83
    Long as you're not hung up on the whole rally thing, Dirt 2 delivers solid fun.
    • Metascore: tbd
    • Critic Score 83
    Everything a portable game should be - fun, addictive, and easy to pick up, even if it's hard to put down.
    • Metascore: 74
    • Critic Score 83
    Like it says on the box, Outlaw Golf 2 is lewd and crude, but a whole lot of fun.
    • Metascore: 77
    • Critic Score 83
    Yet another solid addition to a top-selling franchise. A new story mode, a co-op classic mode, Xbox Live and a slew of other modes give this game high replay value.
    • Metascore: 77
    • Critic Score 83
    It is a deep and fun single-player adventure that fans of comic books or superheroes are sure to enjoy.
    • Metascore: 79
    • Critic Score 83
    Gun
    Gun is fun, but the short length, ease of gameplay and lack of those little extras really hurt replayability – and that's a shame because otherwise, this is a great game.
    • Metascore: 74
    • Critic Score 83
    A stylish visual panache grabs your attention early and a straightforward control scheme makes the game accessible to everyone.
    • Metascore: 79
    • Critic Score 82
    Innovation isn't really the key here. It's more expected standards for your buck.
    • Metascore: 62
    • Critic Score 82
    It might not stack up to the hugely epic Dynasty Warriors games on the consoles, but the PSP version of the game is a tight little package, despite the annoyance of slowdown occasionally hampering huge battles.
    • Metascore: 81
    • Critic Score 82
    The game really captivated me, mainly because of the fun that it provides and the lack of realism.
    • Metascore: 81
    • Critic Score 82
    Ratchet: Deadlocked is cosmetically similar in a different way of handling the Ratchet and Clank blueprint. It has guns; so did they. It has platforming elements; so did they. It has Ratchet and Clank; but, so did they. Then what could possibly be so alarmingly unnatural about this? A much greater focus on weaponry, that's what.
    • Metascore: 82
    • Critic Score 82
    If it wasn't for the stupid AI and clunky movement and weapon selecting, this would be a far better game for solo players, but online is very good and will likely reside as the top PSP online game for a long time.
    • Metascore: 76
    • Critic Score 82
    Suikoden V marks a complete return to the roots that made Suikoden such a great series during its tenure on the PSOne. Both Suikoden and RPGfans will find themselves absolutely enthralled with the story, despite the number of issues presented in the game. If your looking for a traditional RPG experience with just the right amount of tools: look no further than Suikoden V.
    • Metascore: 76
    • Critic Score 82
    Thanks to the always-entertaining battle system, Shadow Hearts: From the New World manages to be a good, enjoyable game, but one that definitely has lost potential. The plot is intriguing at its core but it doesn't develop very well – there's no urgency compared to Covenant.
    • Metascore: 72
    • Critic Score 82
    Features a staggering amount of features despite the shortcomings of the gameplay.
    • Metascore: 78
    • Critic Score 82
    Unlike Untold Legends, the other PS3 launch RPG that is exclusive to the system, Marvel: Ultimate Alliance is the more fun role-playing experience, especially if you crave fierce action games and comic books.
    • Metascore: 72
    • Critic Score 82
    Super Swing Golf provides a nice alternative in between Zelda marathons, but still has enough depth for a player to become deeply involved with it. While some players may be put off with the game’s design and/or controls it’s all a matter of personal taste in the end.
    • Metascore: 81
    • Critic Score 82
    Catan translates surprisingly well to the Live Arcade, and this is mainly because of its smart design choices and addictive multiplayer offerings.
    • Metascore: 79
    • Critic Score 82
    While the lack of online co-op and steep difficulty level will deter some players, it’s hard not to be captivated by the charming presentation, varied action, and enjoyable boss battles present in Alien Hominid HD.
    • Metascore: 69
    • Critic Score 82
    Fans of RTCW: Enemy Territory will love Quake Wars. Hardcore shooter fans who enjoy teamwork will also love it.