A class act, but those solo PlayStation 3 owners might be better served by the upcoming Game of the Year edition.

Regardless of the clear setbacks and lack of evolution, this is still one of the finest titles available for the Xbox 360. If you don't like tactical shooting, the GRAW series will change your mind. It's that good.

A worthwhile addition to anyone’s DS collection. And if you love puzzle games, then you won’t be disappointed with Puzzle Quest.

One of the stronger PS2 titles to be released in recent memory, Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 3 is a must-have for any RPG fan who's looking for something a little different from what else is available.

Ninja Gaiden Sigma is the definitive modern Ninja Gaiden version and one of the top action games currently available.

While it arrives with a meagre number of campaigns to play through, the edge of your seat gameplay and team-based focus of the title make Left 4 Dead the most comprehensive co-op title on the market at this time.

There needn’t be any hesitation to burn those points if you're still yearning for some more medieval madness, because the Shivering Isles adds even more incredible gameplay to an already stunning RPG formula.

If you loved the first then this is a must. As for everyone else who still hasn’t experienced Titan Quest, now is a better time than ever. An excellent expansion to an excellent game.

A great portable action game and a fine portable distraction until the real deal comes around.

So while it doesn’t do anything out of the ordinary (well, in comparison to the rest of the series), it delivers what it needs to and does with distinction. It's marginally a better game than the original, but it doesn't have the advantage of being the series' return to form. Still, if you're a WipEout fan or someone who's after an adrenaline and challenge packed racer, then WipEout Pulse astutely fits the bill.

Through the tears of frustration and joy, you'll find that Devil May Cry 4 is the premier action game so far in the HD generation.

Burnout Paradise isn't a typical update, but the decision to move the game to an open world can generally be considered a good one. There are still a few annoying flaws (the lack of a try again option, the less enjoyable crash options) but the great presentation, incredible online implementation and wealth of things to do in Paradise City will please even the most cynical Burnout fan.

While it maintains the atmosphere of the original title, the silly sci-fi twist of the second half of the game prevents it from reaching the white-knuckled heights of atmospheric tension that Condemned: Criminal Origins thrived on.

Not only one of the best looking PlayStation 3 games, it's incredibly enjoyable, with some excellent weapons and some brilliant action set pieces.

Singstar for the PlayStation 3 isn't fundamentally different from its predecessors but there is very little left to change for the franchise. With a great soundtrack and some long overdue online features, Singstar is a great continuation of the series.

The Wii version doesn't support downloadable content right now, but with a huge track list, a solid mix of songs, and the trusty Guitar Hero formula basically untouched, Legends of Rock is well recommended.

Superbly structured strategy gameplay and a wonderfully colourful, humorous and entertaining setting make Disgaea: Afternoon of Darkness one of the best strategy RPGs around.

Borderlands shows just how compelling a mix of shooting and looting can be. And it can be even better with friends.

The AI needs a good, firm slap to the face but Empire: Total War is a big, bold, fantastically ambitious game that is (for the most part) a resounding success.

An absolute blast to play through alone or with a mate, Saints Row 2 is quite simply a must purchase for anybody that is looking for a bloody good time. And isn't that what we're all really looking for?

NBA 2K8 has excellent on-court play, awesome presentation and a packed feature set - basketball video games don't get any better than this.

Portal is a compact game that manages to punch well above its weight.

It's Ninja Gaiden II, literally in every sense of the word. It doesn't break any real new ground, but on the other hand, does it really need to?

Rez on the XBLA is a one-of-a-kind experience, and while it doesn't have a remarkably wide appeal, those who 'get it' will be much better off for playing it.

What Boom Blox does feature is simple, old-fashioned fun.

The World Ends With you is easily one of the best and undoubtedly one of the most unique experiences available on the Nintendo DS. Despite a tough learning curve, we highly recommend this one-of-a-kind title.

Mass Effect might be shovelled into an ill-fitting RPG suit with a few loose threads and unsightly stains, but if you stand back and squint, it's still a damn sight better than what everyone else is wearing.

Pure is a fantastic off road racer and a brilliant arcade title. It's rough, it's filthy and the races are never clean, but we love it anyway.

This Wii version bodes well for the future of the Pro Evolution Soccer franchise. Hopefully Konami runs with it and continues to improve the concepts they've developed here. Recommended for those with even a passing interest in soccer, sorry - football.

Minor blemishes of challenge and length on an otherwise sharply crafted blade, Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword is nevertheless a solidly designed DS title.

Lots of destruction, lots of action and a whole lot of fun, Red Faction: Guerrilla is a must have for anybody who occasionally gets the urge to needlessly smash things and have a good time.

The Sims 3 provides gamers with a title that is more evolved and still thoroughly as addictive as its predecessors, giving gamers a greater sense of freedom and an overall refined experience.

Gears of War 2 is one of the most intense and viscerally enjoyable and sensually appealing gaming experiences that you'll likely have this holiday season.

The single-player mash-up of RTS and RPG elements works really well, and the multiplayer is fast and exciting. Relic's reinvention of the Dawn of War brand is a breath of fresh (or possibly fetid, Tyranid infested) air.

de Blob is an undeniably infectious game. On all fronts, the game is polished and high quality, making it one of the best third-party titles available for the Wii.

Valkyria Chronicles succeeds in bringing genres together and provides a memorable experience that not only proves that strategy can be done on consoles, but brings something completely new and great to the table.

As personal improvement programs go on the DS, this is one of the best we've seen bar none.

Rare took a huge risk by giving the franchise a new direction, but thankfully it paid off. Nuts & Bolts is easily one of their best titles in recent years.

Crysis Warhead is a visual tour de force, an excellent shooter and, for the price, well worth purchasing.

For those who haven't already been down to Rapture, Bioshock is an experience not to be missed.

NHL 09 is an outstanding hockey game. EA has delivered two truly new features to the genre, in the form of the EA Sports Hockey League and the Be A Pro mode, which have well and truly moved the goal posts. Or net, in this instance. Grab your controller and become a hockey legend today.

Simple flaws aside, NBA 2K9's solid gameplay shine above the rest, assuring that the series lifts the championship banner into the rafters for at least another year.

Taken off its pedestal and with all the hype and expectation dusted away, Chrono Trigger provides one of the most unique and entertaining adventures available on the DS.

Dragon Quest: Hand of the Heavenly Bride is among the best Japanese RPGs ever created. RPG fans should not miss this classic.

Resistance 2 is a rock-solid sequel and does everything required of a shooter in an extremely capable fashion. It may not be the most technically adept or memorable piece of software, but it remains consistently enjoyable for the months of gameplay it provides.

Resistance Retribution combines winning gameplay with a rollercoaster-ride of a campaign, and adds a bunch of replay value in to boot.

A benchmark in downloadable content, even with all of its launch issues around online multiplayer.

The last guy's sum is far greater than its rather simplistic parts, offering up yet another fun and entirely unique game for the PSN service.

Prince of Persia makes some bold design decisions that manage to come off well and they provide a great new start for the evergreen franchise.

Mega Man 9 is more than just an experiment in aesthetics or retro fan service - it's the real deal. Tough as nails, rewarding, and endlessly playable. Essential for anyone with the requisite skill or determination.

Despite some niggling imperfections, Tekken 6 is the best entry yet in the series and certainly worth your fighting game dollar.

It's bigger, better and happier. Let a little LocoRoco love into your life and you'll never regret it.

Despite being ten years old the original Banjo-Kazooie has aged remarkably well. The game is a must for anyone who loved the N64 outings or simply wants some classic platformer action.

Whether you bleed for all things Battlefield or are just a gamer after a moderately priced casual shooter that is fun to pick up and play, you can't go past the entertaining gameplay of Battlefield 1943.

If you are yet to be hooked in by coloured pegs and unicorns found in Peggle, it's time to feel the extreme fever and grab a copy today.

Just Cause 2 reminds us why we play games in the first place: to have an utterly ridiculous amount of fun, and to surf jets because it's possible.

Though not quite living up to its predecessor, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 is undoubtedly one of the best games of the holiday season. With an epic single-player, challenging and entertaining Spec Ops mode and greatly improved multiplayer, Modern Warfare 2 is a call that should not go unanswered.

Overall, while Need for Speed Shift appears to be aiming at providing a simulation-racing experience, it obviously hasn't forgotten about the series' core fan-base, making a game that can be enjoyed by just about any kind of racing game fan.

MotorStorm: Arctic Edge is the best arcade racer to hit the PSP platform, and is a fine addition to the already quality franchise that was born on the PS3.

Classic platformer gaming that will have you reliving the glory days of the N64 console. Whether you're a fan or a newcomer, there's little reason why you shouldn't purchase the XBLA port of Banjo-Tooie.

PiCOPiCT is a great puzzler, and the best game available on DSiWare so far.

Rock Band Unplugged is a fantastic portable representation of the series, and is worth picking up for any music game fan.

DJ Hero is a very fun music game, with great music and a decent amount of challenge. Personal taste in music may keep some away, but for those that do try it there is plenty to like here.

A well-written love letter to an almost-forgotten style of game, Shadow Complex is quite simply one of the best titles available on Xbox Live Arcade.

Astonishing madness and action packed gameplay drenched in gallons of ultra violence and style. Not to be missed.

Improved in almost every way and along with so many levels of customization, it makes this an easy purchase for any wrestling fan, and a serious consideration for everybody else. Fantastic.

While slightly weighed down by its ambition, Heavy Rain provides a riveting mature-themed story, and an adventure driven by the decisions you make and the actions you succeed in. And best of all, there is nothing out there quite like it.

Worms 2: Armageddon is a worthy follow-up to 2007's Worms. With an improved online infrastructure, new vertical levels and a variety of gameplay options, the game will keep you entertained for a long time.

Splosion Man is a wonderful breath of fresh air that's enjoyable, well priced and full of personality.

It's not without some flaws, but Dirt 2 is a worthy follow-up to its predecessor and, perhaps more importantly, a worthy tribute to Mr McRae himself.

NBA 2K10 manages to improve many facets of its game over its predecessor, showing that this franchise is not willing to give up its all-star status anytime soon.

The Siege of Spinner Cay is a funnier outing, with a cool plot and some great stumper-puzzles. It also continues to ramp up the action, tension and comedy of the series, making it feel a part of something much greater and more epic.

Professor Layton and Pandora's Box is a challenging, charming and unmissable adventure.

Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars on the PSP may be no better and not much different than the DS version, but it's definitely worth a shot for any GTA fan who hasn't played it yet.

Chaos Rising is a lovingly crafted and highly entertaining stand alone expansion with a whole lot of content and a boatload of Chaos.

New Super Mario Bros. Wii is another wonderfully crafted Mario game that is engaging for both old and new players. Sadly the lack of online multiplayer and innovation, and gimmicky motion controls prevent it from becoming the crown jewel of the series.

The last chapter is also the best, rounding out Telltale's most enjoyable episodic series to date.

Whether you're an old-school trainer or a newbie to the world of Pokémon, you'll be hard pressed to find a portable role-playing experience as engrossing as Pokémon: Heart Gold/Soul Silver.

Whether you're an old-school trainer or a newbie to the world of Pokémon, you'll be hard pressed to find a portable role-playing experience as engrossing as Pokémon: Heart Gold/Soul Silver.

ModNation Racers frees gamers from the shackles of the kart racer formula and injects a healthy dose of fun and creativity into the kart racing scene.

Despite not changing much from its popular predecessor, Resident Evil 5 is still an incredibly entertaining, very immersive and intense action title. A solid debut for the franchise on the current generation.

Torchlight is a lovingly crafted and polished action-RPG that is an absolute must for any fans of the genre, and well worth looking into from anyone else even vaguely interested.

Tales of Monkey Island is an extremely funny romp that is well worth its meager price tag.

They Stole Max's Brain! is another superb episode, with a great twist.

The Penal Zone is as charming and laugh-out loud funny as any entry in the Sam & Max franchise; intricate puzzles and sharp writing making it a smart download for any adventure game aficionado. Good job, little buddy.

Mafia II is a superbly told, mature and adult game that will entertain, shock and blow you away time and time again.

A great ending to Sam & Max's best season yet, and the final reason why any adventure gamer should check this series out.

Lara is back in fine, downloadable form. A riveting quest from start to finish.

The story of Kingdom Hearts gets more and more complicated, but the gameplay gets better and better. Birth By Sleep plays extremely well for a PSP game, and has plenty of fun, depth and variety.

Another gem from Codemasters. F1 2010 is everything that a racing game needs to be, and so much more.

Enslaved is a game that has managed to sneak past the hype radar, but that doesn't stop it from being one of the most enjoyable and entertaining action-adventure titles this year.

Massive, varied, challenging, rewarding and spectacular, Castlevania: Lords of Shadow is a fantastic reboot and a premier action adventure title.

Fallout: New Vegas gets off to a slow start, and the engine is showing its age. Nonetheless, it's extremely addictive and immensely rewarding for those willing to put in the time to see all the Mojave Wasteland has to offer.

With more varied puzzles, top-notch graphics and a wonderful storyline, Professor Layton and The Lost Future is a game that a true gentleman or lady shouldn't pass up.

More of a refinement than a revolution, but that doesn't stop DJ Hero 2 from being a truly brilliant and worthwhile addition to the rhythm action scene.

WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2011 doesn't completely revolutionise the genre of wrestling games, but it certainly has enough new tricks and improvements to make it one of the most compelling additions to the series in some time.

Dance Central is the best of the Kinect launch line-up, and with ongoing support promised for what is already a solid and well-executed concept, this inspires faith that developers are capable of great things with this hardware in the future.

Gran Turismo 5 mostly delivers on its promise of an all-encompassing, incredibly accurate and challenging racing simulator, and is by all means a treat for car fans and racing game fans alike.

BlazBlue: Continuum Shift is a fantastic sequel to BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger, and it's easily one of the best fighting games of this console generation.

Raskulls is a title that is sure to amuse and entertain for hours on end, with excellent gameplay and a degree of polish that could very well rank it up there among the best Xbox Live Arcade games.

If you, like us, have a deep nostalgic passion for adventure games, you will adore Lost Horizon. It knows exactly what it is and what it's meant to do, and while there are few surprises, it's a terrific ride.

Stacking is a delightful little game with a fantastically original premise that truly deserves to be played by everyone.

Essential for puzzle fans and highly recommended for everyone else, ilomilo is one of the most unique experiences on Xbox Live.

The breath of fresh air that was needed in a seemingly stale FPS genre. It takes a remarkably good idea, slides across the battlefield, kicks the enemy into the air and shoots him in the crotch with it. It's that awesome, and exactly what you'd expect of a shameless, over-the-top and entertaining old-school action romp.

Retaining the classic role-playing and battle systems, Pokemon Black and White is treat for players old and new, with an engaging and lengthy adventure and countless new Pokemon to catch.

Retaining the classic role-playing and battle systems, Pokemon Black and White is treat for players old and new, with an engaging and lengthy adventure and countless new Pokemon to catch.

Short of stepping into the ring yourself, Fight Night Champion is the best possible boxing experience you can hope to find.

Hard Corps: Uprising is just a freakishly awesome game and it offers a great way to enjoy one of the most celebrated retro genres in a more relevant and modern context.

Mario vs Donkey Kong: Mini-Land Mayhem is an impressive entry into the platform puzzling genre on the DS and a fantastic follow-up to previous entries in the series.

There's still room for improvement, but as it stands, Top Spin 4 is the most proficient tennis game of this generation.

Pokemon Fire Red and Pokemon Leaf Green are two magnificent games that pull off an amazing remake of two of the greatest titles in the franchise, however, I felt that there was a lot of room for improvement.

Pokemon Fire Red and Pokemon Leaf Green are two magnificent games that pull off an amazing remake of two of the greatest titles in the franchise, however, I felt that there was a lot of room for improvement.

Quite easily the best version released yet, and is an ideal RPG for handheld gamers. An essential purchase for what is, currently, a dead console.

Fable has its fair share of problems – the length of the main story, primarily – but it has so many fun and unique elements that will draw you deep into the world of Albion you can't help but love it.

The type of game which could rack the fifty hour limit and still force you to come back and blow stuff up because it's just that damn enjoyable.

Arcade perfect. The ports are very clean and faithful to the originals. No sign of pixelazation here.

The additions of the Party Mode and Dream Team Mode, along with the actual gameplay tweaks are enough to make this the strongest hockey title ever.

A game that will last a ridiculously long amount of time. We personally shudder to think of how long it would take to complete the entire game, it would take at least fifty hours and this isn't including the Xbox Live features.

Fight Night: Round 2 claims the title of best boxing game, but still has some distance to travel before being truly great.

The best GTA experience and the best open-ended console gameplay experience you can have offline.

One of the most unique adventure games in years. Gripping stuff from start to finish.

Puts pretty much everything into place with a great conclusion to the story and some of the best platforming action of the generation.

One of the best racing games of 2005. It feels so polished and the presentation is really high class.

Brilliant visual flair and charm that make Paper Mario a treat to watch. Almost like watching a Mario cartoon.

Jungle Beat's only main fault is its length... for people who simply want to play it from start to finish they're going to feel a little short changed as you'll see the end credits in only about 3-4hrs.

There is little lacking and so much right within Okamiden. A great sequel, a suitable DS send-off and an outstanding game in its own right.

Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together sets the bar for what a good remake should be and certainly cements itself as one of the best isometric strategy role-playing games around.

Shogun 2: Total War is a great addition to the Total War series, and is definitely one to pick up if you're a fan of Sengoku-era games, or have the slightest interest in RTS titles.

L.A. Noire superbly reproduces classic film noir, and combines great new gameplay ideas with groundbreaking technology and smart designs.

A gale of fresh air, Child of Eden compels and delights on a number of levels.

Not even a wobbly second act can derail Insomniac's achievement with Resistance 3, a lean and engaging shooter which hums on a current of renewed creative energy and artistic focus. The franchise has finally founds its voice, and we look forward to what it has to say next.

Though not without its faults, Gears of War 3 ties up the trilogy in a brutally final and satisfying manner.

Some niggling issues and problems aside, FIFA 12 is a fantastic sports game that delivers where it matters - gameplay.

Sesame Street: Once Upon a Monster is an excellent family-friendly experience that kids will learn a lot from and adults will have fun with. This is definitely a game that lives up to the Sesame Street name.

An unquestionable downloadable gem, Dungeon Defenders is a truly refreshing experience amongst a market dominated by whizzing bullets and big explosions. Just make sure you play it with some friends.

Infinity Ward and Slegdehammer Games have fashioned a fantastic product, not for its fresh or innovate approach, but for the sheer content and refinements made to the existing product. The solo campaign, though short in length and somewhat lacking in climax, exemplifies flawless shooter gameplay while delivering a satisfying end to the Modern Warfare trilogy.

Ties in the fates of the three protagonists very well, and makes some good improvements on the way. But the real revelation will be if the next proper sequel manages to improve rather than just polish an ideas pool running low.

Saints Row: The Third takes everything your teenage self found awesome and distills it into a single, outrageous game.

Football Manager 2012 exercises the same sheer depth and freedom that have seen the series leave other football management titles in its wake.

There is so much to do in Final Fantasy XI, go fishing, cook stuff, make armour, join linkshell groups, kill Goblins. The world is Vana'Diel is such a large place, just don't forget to send everyone else postcards.

A fairly solid 3D Platformer with only a lack of difficulty letting it down. Definitely more worthwhile at the cheaper Platinum price point, and worth a look for all gaming fans.

Quite simply put - this is the finest horizontal shooter on the PlayStation 2. In fact, it’s the finest horizontal shooter on any of the next-generation systems.

An addictive tycoon style game which also caters to those with a bit of creative flair.

A great conclusion to this part of the story and a great experience in general.

While the idea of mixing weapons based brutality with careful tiptoeing stealth may have been the result of having one too many at the pub, it certainly comes off much better than expected. Well worth a look.

While its vulnerability to player population size sometimes takes a toll, Warhammer Online offers a skull-crackling good time.

It's amazing that a slightly buggy game that was originally slated for a 2003 release can provide such fantastic gaming. It's almost scary to think just how influential S.T.A.L.K.E.R. could have been, had it been released 3-4 years ago with completely polished code.

The new Wing Command system coupled with the ability to choose their aircraft allows for an increased level of strategy and the in-flight conversations with them really adds a new layer depth and involvement to the series.

One of the best built games in recent times. Intuitive action makes it simple and satisfying with sim and arcade fans being able to get in on the fun.

If you like an RPG with an element of sci-fi and don't mind being smacked around a lot in battles, then Star Ocean is certainly an RPG for you.

A decent racing game: those of you who've always wanted to shoot cars down while battling them in Burnout 3 will never turn back.

The Witcher provides some deep, interesting and reasonably mature RPG action. A touch more maturity, complexity in choices, and polish could have taken the game a little further, but overall, if you're looking for a great title in this genre, you would be doing yourself a favour to investigate what The Witcher has to offer.

The game play is quick and addictive which should satisfy adults, and the puzzles aren't too difficult, but still put up a challenge which should appeal to children.

The game is extremely fast.

Most definitely one of the best platformers for quite some time, and another Tim Schafer success story, but the game is still a little lacklustre and prevents it from becoming the pick of the crop.

An incredible experience that all strategy fans shouldn’t pass the opportunity to experience.

With a lengthy single player adventure and 3 dozen mini-games to enjoy, Super Mario 64 DS is well worth the cash, despite its minor control issues.

Whilst it is the #1 stop for V8 fans everywhere, it still falls some distance behind the mighty "Project Gotham Racing 2" and "Gran Turismo 3." This game is much more simulation than arcade based, so those expecting to be able to powerslide corners at high speed should look to "OutRun 2" or "Burnout 3" for their arcade racing fix.

The dark horse of the DS launch, Zoo Keeper is a smart, endearing puzzler that can engulf hours at a time.

Don't go in there expecting fun mini games. Instead, this is strictly a fitness title, yet it's quality means there's genuine potential here to carve out a new genre within videogaming.

Using the touchscreen exclusively for control, as well as the microphone and the top screen, means this simply isn't playable on anything other than the DS.

But my biggest problem with the game is really just the slight lack of craziness that I've come to expect from Wario Ware. I rarely laugh out loud at a game, but the original Wario Ware provided me with much humour with its general wackiness.

There’s certainly enough depth to be found for RTS fans, but once again, it falls a tad sort of our expectations.

Tactical stealth using cards? Not everyone will like it, and some will hate it, but for those who can get around it, a great gaming experience awaits.

Everybody's Golf is a great game that should be suited to anyone who likes their games to be easy and accessible.

A truly wonderful adventure game, thanks largely to an excellent script and memorable cast of characters.

It's the definitive version of Fable, but only those who've not played the Xbox game, or are die hard fans should pick it up, given the additional content is not as plentiful as one would have expected, nor does it make the game profoundly different from what was released 12 months ago.

The best game in the series yet. If you're after a simulation game with damage or just want to come close to experience what it's like to drive a V8 then you simply cannot go past this game.

The game falls short in several areas: the game has a tendency of being too easy, the camera angles can be frustrating, the framerate drops and a lot of other nit-picks that prevents this game from being the best in the series.

Jak X is one of the better kart-styled races on the market. It's a solid experience that Jak fans should come to enjoy.

There is a variety overload in terms of gameplay; with fundamental 2D gameplay enhanced by the context sensitive magic scheme, a horribly addictive DDR-esque section, 6 fun and quirky mini-games and taking care of your own virtual pet Nintendogs style, not to mention multiplayer mode and a bevy of extras to come back for.

It's too much of a great piece of software to pass by undetected. So for those interested, import if need be, but do not miss out.

It may not have the lifespan or the consistency of ideas that the highest caliber 2D platformers contain, but with its unique design and control system there’s no denying it’s a fun game in its own right.

Jimmy Hopkins is a more entertaining character than any of the GTA leads (except perhaps Tommy Vercetti). This propels Bully to a status of well above average, providing a rich, detailed gaming experience – but not without its flaws.

It seems PAL gamers got the good end of the stick here, with load times cut in half and everything making the cut that was in the American version. This is a racing game to seriously consider.

An excellent example of what a great adaptation from PC to DS can achieve. Age of Empires: Age of Kings delivers fun strategy gaming that you should be happy to carry with you for quite some time.

It may not be so much a stride than a baby step for the series, but Unreal Tournament III still manages to provide a solid return for pure hectic multiplayer entertainment.

Stranglehold successfully merges the third person action game with John Woo's cinematic flair, with great, if short-lived results.

American Sk8land manages to create a feeling of fun that has been missing from recent Tony Hawk titles, by focusing on pure skating, rather than mischief.

An amazing launch title. It doesn’t feel like a launch title as we didn’t find any bugs and it doesn’t seem like any shortcuts were taken during development. It isn’t as much of an upgrade from Project Gotham Racing 2 as we’d hoped.

It mightn't be much different from the Xbox version, or very 'next-gen', but NHL 2K6 is a worthy upgrade from ESPN NHL 2K5, and well worth a look for all 360 owners looking for a good sports game.

A superb game, but not without its problems. There are a few unfinished graphical holes, the length of the game is a tad disappointing and the multiplayer isn’t quite attractive – especially with those dreadful load times.

Fans of the series will find that SSX on the PSP is very faithful to the series, there are a few control issues, but it's still a decent game.

The best Dead or Alive game so far. The single player is weak so avoid paying full price if you don’t have a friend to player or access to Xbox Live.

Its strange cast and inventive battle system make it a great title for fans of the RPG genre and those not so well versed in it as well.

The fourth Budokai game is the most accurate videogame rendition of Dragon Ball Z to date. It doesn't get much better than this.

Sega have successfully blended basic 3D and amazing 2D into the game, anyone who has moved away from Sonic in recent years has a great reason to come back to the series now.

One for the fans. Despite some issues, it's damn good action game as well.

This is the definitive version of Burnout Revenge. There are more crash junctions, upgraded graphics and more expanded multiplayer; the port to the Xbox 360 has served the franchise well.

It combines a proper level design and engaging gameplay. It’s definitely a great return to form for the series. While the control scheme is one of the most functional, it has a few quirks and the game in general does somewhat lack some personality.

The hottest RTS game this year, and one of the most rewarding Lord of the Rings title available.

Ape Escape 3 marks a real attempt at progression for the series, but seems like it may have come a little too late in the PlayStation 2's life cycle.

The game's a little easier this time, but playing through with Vergil is a completely different experience.

One of the best games on the PSP and one of the best handheld fighting games ever. Whilst the game isn't that much of an upgrade from Tekken 5 you're still getting more characters, as well as more game play options and the ability to play against downloaded ghosts.

Lost Planet: Extreme Condition is an intense and enjoyable shooter from the reliable Capcom stables. The single player, while a little too short by modern standards is an absolute blast. The multiplayer is a little different, fun and likely to be popular until the next big Live game is released.

Mega Man Powered Up is easily one of the best titles on the PSP at this point in time - a must-buy for all fans of the Blue Bomber.

One of the most easily accessible games on the Xbox 360.

The best retro compilation ever, even without many big names.

The game proves that the PSP is more than competent enough to handle "pick up and play" titles, which is really the type of games that people want on handhelds. It's an addictive game and i don't think i've ever smiled more whilst playing a game than I did with LocoRoco. It's insanely addictive, and has a unique look that is unmatched on the PSP.

Tom Clancy's Rainbow 6 Vegas is still an incredible game and is highly recommended. It may be coming a little bit late but you'll be having so much fun you just won't care.

The most robust and refined Hitman experience to date.

A good package of great fighting games that has it where it counts. A no-brainer purchase if you're interested in 2D fighters, worth a look for anyone else.

Red Steel is an achievement both in its own extremely playable right, but also as a benchmark that other developers must meet - and hopefully exceed.

Virtua Tennis 3 might be a mere incremental upgrade, but it has almost everything one needs in a tennis game. Online play on the 360 version of the game is just the icing on the cake.

The game just feels so incredibly polished and even though the single player championship mode is a little bit bare you will keep returning to the game just for a quick race, the online play could be a drawcard for several people as well.

Capcom's "sheer numbers" approach to the zombie game, along with a refreshing level of variety and just a hint of campiness results in Dead Rising being a heck of a lot of fun.

Size Matters is an enjoyable addition to the Ratchet & Clank franchise, despite a few control issues.

The game’s campaign mode is very engaging and fun, with a reliance of strategy the key factor in winning. While the other modes aren’t quite as enjoyable, they do enough to offer a different perspective to the game, especially the co-op mode.