Dead Space lifts gameplay elements from a variety of sources and ably adapts them to the survival-horror genre. It’s let down by some samey environs, but these don’t detract from the compelling horror experience.

Finally, football is back to where it should be on PS3 – at the top of our mostplayed lists. But FIFA 09 still has the capacity to annoy beyond all reason, especially when it’s playing in goal.

Eternal Sonata really is amazing to look at and incredible fun to play. The characters endear themselves to you and the story isn’t as clichéd as most JRPGs. The only downside is that it’s a little bit shorter than other roleplaying games.

Patapon 2 is still pretty good fun and definitely not like many other video games out there. If you can match the beats and you don’t get too frustrated when you miss one then you’re in for a great tactical rhythm-based game.

Delivers on the ambitious intentions of the original with added interest, only slightly letting itself down with some control issues that could and should have been fixed. Still the closest you're going to get to a truly playable action movie for now, though. [Issue#190, p.68]

The best fiver you'll ever spend on PSN. [Issue#183, p.83]

An addictive, entertaining and intense racer that can happily sit alongside the genre greats. [Issue#184, p.68]

Genuinely funny humour meets a great turn-based battle system and ludicrous levels of depth for those fond of levelling up ad nauseam. [Issue#190, p.77]

A fantastic package, covering multiple genres and raising more smiles than it has any right to. [Issue#191, p.80]

Great fun. [Issue#190, p.91]

On the one hand it brings nothing new to the table and has some irritating faults. On the other, it's a joyful experience and will warm the cockles of anyone who plays. [Issue#192, p.88]

It's not the prettiest game on PSN but it's certainly one of the best strategy titles currently available. [Issue#192, p.97]

A superb conversion to a portable gaming format. [Issue#196, p.90]

Really good fun. [Issue#199, p.93]

There's no doubt that this is top quality content but playing these modes without the main game is not a full experience. Thankfully the price tag makes up for that in a big way. [Issue#199, p.86]

It's still a fantastic game and an absolute riot in multiplayer. [Issue#198, p.103]

There's an inevitable faltering in the fact that this is 'merely' WipEout again – there's not too much that can be done with the formula, but to be honest there's little we'd want to see done to change things up. Though a crossover with PSone's Rollcage, thus adding wheeled vehicles, would be pretty nifty. All the same, this does mean you're getting a game made up of a very good experience – but a very good experience you've played through seven times before. Eight if you had an N64. WipEout 2048 still comes with an unconditional recommendation.

Its haunting atmosphere sure to leave a mark – just as, say, Flower did before it.

Combines a tactical battle system, a mature setting and an intriguing story to perfect effect, breaking away from many of the cliches the genre relies on. [Issue 141, p.108]

A wonderfully unique offering from our wonderfully inventive friends in Japan. [Apr 2006, p.94]

The best puzzle game on PSP by far, but owners of the original might be more disappointed that it doesn't take more abmitious steps to stretch its formula further and see what happens. [Issue #147, p.76]

A few kinks in the frame rate and issues with an otherwise-clever and well-executed control system aren't enough to significantly dampen our enthusiasm for Skate. "Tony Hawk's" watch out: this new skater has some sick moves. [Issue#159, p.84]

Nothing new as far as the franchise is concerned. But the formula is so brilliant, why change it? Studio Liverpool tried once with "Fusion" and it took "Pure" to get it back on track. Pulse helps keep it there. [Issue#159, p.94]

Tactics is as immense as it is intense. With a brilliant storyline and a wealth of options for creating and customising characters, there is no finer RPG on the PSP. [Issue#159, p.88]

The best Need for Speed game in years. [Issue#161, p.86]

With a few more levels, it would've been exceptional, but it's unique, engaging fun as it is. [Issue#162, p.82]

Not quite as enjoyable as "LocoRoco," but containing significantly more depth, Patapon will be immediately accessible to some, but may take a little work with others. Once you're into it though, it's a real blast. [Issue#163, p.76]

With some major tweaks to an old formula, Tiger is back to his best. As ever, we wonder what on Earth EA will do next year, but for the time being we have one of the best golf games in some time.

It's like a portable anti-depressant. [Issue#167, p.93]

Savage Moon is a fine companion piece to PixelJunk Monsters. However, the learning curve is softer, visually it’s a lot less obscure and there are a few more options that make it the deeper strategy experience.

There's a real sense of calculated attack and defence throughout each race. [Issue#193, p.88]

Simply the best in the series and as such the best skateboarding game on PS3...Its sense of fun and superb control mechanics are still without equal. [Issue#192, p.82]

Incredibly addictive. [Issue#185, p.78]

Due to the arguably archaic control scheme and the co-op aspect, Resi 5 isn’t for everybody. Then again, we love it, and we’ve been playing Resident Evil for over a decade; if you’re one of us, then Resident Evil 5 will suit you perfectly.

While the on-track action is hard to fault, the off-track content just seems to slow things down. [Issue#197, p.92]

Brilliantly structured levels. [Issue#197, p.103]

Some of the modes on Medal of Honor's online component are fantastically good fun. [Issue#198, p.86]

Even the normal difficulty is so insanely hard it's likely to put many gamers off. [Issue#201, p.98]

An improvement over the original, but still suffering technical issues and is decidedly old-fashioned in many regards. [Issue#203, p.72]

An inventive FPS with a sense of humour. [Issue#203, p.76]

Two good games, one great game, 30 quid or less. [Issue#204, p.89]

Still as good today as it was when it was released. [Issue#207, p.98]

Better than First Strike by a mile. [Issue#208, p.98]

There's a feeling that FIFA might be running out of ideas. [Issue#210, p.83]

Brilliant. [Feb 2012, p.83]

It trumps the last version on PS3 by merit of opening up more player options – generally it's the same game, but the method of taking a shot can use any one of five different mechanisms. Other than that it's business as usual – madly compulsive, quick to pick up and difficult to master, questionable representation of young girls.

If the combat was a little bit tighter this would be absolutely excellent. [Issue#219, p.74]

While it's not a huge step up from the original, a break of two and a half years and a bit of polish makes Darksiders II easy to recommend. It has issues, but there's a hell of a lot of game for those who want it. [Issue#221, p.70]

An essential purchase for owners of last year's Madden? Probably not but if you haven't tried this series yet, you're missing out. [Issue#223, p.79]

The first sign of weakness in the otherwise excellent series. [Issue#223, p.87]

The best four-wheeled satisfaction you'll ever get from a handheld. [Issue#184, p.64]

A huge leap forward for the franchise and the best Medal of Honor in the series to date. However, it's betrayed by a complete lack of polish. [Issue#161, p.96]

Brimming with things that will irritate the hell out of you... Better than the first version, and at half the price. [Issue#139, p.72]

A great sports game in its own right. [Issue 144, p.98]

The best game since "Tony Hawk's 3." [Issue 148, p.66]

For our part, despite its flaws, we think it gets the job done. [Issue#190, p.64]

It's another NFS game which means you know exactly what to expect before peeling the cellophane off. That doesn't mean it's bad though. [Issue #147, p.84]

Whilst certainly the best in the series, Tiger Woods PGA Tour 07 suffers from being far too similar to the previous game. [Issue 145, p.93]

With a lengthy quest and an in-depth experience point system it manages to sit on its very own, special throne. [Issue 148, p.89]

A solid tacitcal offering. [Issue#160, p.90]

Might not absorb and obsess you like "Gran Turismo," but for in-the-moment racing thrills it's right-on unbeatable. [Issue#167, p.94]

The game is basically an interactive optical illusion. [Issue#169, p.90]

Rocksteady really should be praised for nailing the essence of the character as well as it has. [Issue#183, p.75]

Some of these games are good – some aren’t. It’s only about £30 for 48 titles and it’ll make your house look tidier, and save your knees from too much bending down.

The whole point of this carnage, of course, is to survive as long as possible and rack up enough points to dominate your leaderboard of choice. It’s as old-school a premise as any game can have, but at least Burn Zombie Burn’s comedy weapons make the whole thing jolly god fun as a bonus.

While it's not outstanding or original, Bound in Blood is an extravaganza of high-octane, gun-toting entertainment that'll have western fans frothing at the mouth and keep any gamer occupied for hours. [Issue#181, p.78]

It won’t appeal to some PS3 owners, but if you enjoy the smell of grass and have no objection to recycling, however, then Flower is definitely appropriate.

Aside from being in a league of its own, Noby Noby Boy is so charming it can transform you from a respectable adult to a child in minutes. Don’t resist the urge – rediscover why you decided to play games in the first place.

You’ll enjoy Mytran Wars, given time and an understanding of the battle mechanics. It’s got something others in the genre don’t – a feeling you’re playing a game of skill.

It's a bit light on the additions and isn't recommended to those who bought 09. On the other hand, it's a solid, fun and well-presented title for fans and non-fans of the sport. [Issue#184, p.79]

Yet another essential PlayStation Network download. [Issue#181, p.89]

One of the most inventive games on Sony's Playstation Network. [Issue#184, p.84]

Genuinely entertaining play modes. [Issue#186, p.87]

Only its insane difficulty level lets it down. [Issue#187, p.87]

Exceptional presentation and an affecting, moody atmosphere help to compensate for some mixed game design. [Issue#197, p.86]

Longevity is assured thanks to a variety of maps and plans to land and only the fact that stages can take a while to get going lets it down. [Issue#198, p.103]

When it makes contact, GT5 absolutely hits it out of the park so we hope lesser elements like online integration can be improved before Polyphony's opus strikes out. [Issue#200, p.85]

A good, solid collection. [Issue#200, p.90]

It's not only a fun game, but shows off the Move brilliantly. [Issue#201, p.99]

Excellent value. [Issue#204, p.97]

If you're too hardcore for arcade but too casual for simulation, DiRT 3's masterful balancing of both styles makes it the game for you. [Issue#206, p.84]

One of the best Madden experiences yet, even if the fabled presentation doesn't seem as strong as before. If you've wanted to get into the series before but haven't, now's the time. [Issue#209]

It shouldn't work, but it's most certainly a triumph. [Issue#212, p.103]

There's no great leaps for the series and it doesn't take huge advantage of the hardware's unique features, but it's still very bloody good.

It's not the game you want to justify your purchase of a Vita, as it won't have you signing the merits of its various technical features and thanking the Lord for a rear touchpad. But it's something more important than that – fun.

It's the sexiest puzzle game on the sexiest handheld. [Issue#216, p.82]

Just pure, solid fun. [Issue#225, p.74]

Eye-caressingly beautiful, and with a score that could tug heartstrings at ten paces, Ni No Kuni is a stirring if over familiar RPG that takes you on a memorable journey to a world that is wonderful in every sense. [Issue#227, p.66]

Somehow this template still feels far from stale. [Issue#227, p.72]

The best Naruto game yet. [Issue#230, p.77]

Like "Lumines," however, the ear and eye candy is more than just, well, ear and eye candy, and is completely inseparable from the gameplay. [Issue 145, p.82]

A remarkable addition to the Network roster, Warhawk is probably the most fun we've had with our PS3s yet. That said, some of the gameplay is uneven, but the dogfighting alone should sell this to you. It's a joy. [Issue#157, p.78]

Very different [from] "Tiger Woods," but this is far from a bad thing. A viable alternative to the franchise. [Issue 144, p.97]

The worst ending to a videogame ever and a mediocre start aren't enough to ruin one of the better shooters to emerge in years. Barker's influence is something that elevates Jericho, despite its problems, above many other FPSs. A gory treat. [Issue#159, p.80]

The most thrilling game we've played on the PSP, and it only feels like a moderate step down from the PS2 installments. [Issue#165, p.76]

The best, fastest and most exhilarating ride you’ll get for a long time. It’s got all the options you’ll want from a ‘street’ racer of this ilk, but it really doesn’t need it. The real joy is in the toughness and thrill of the races. Simple.

Linear it may be but as a cinematic action game, you can't fault it. [Issue#161, p.95]

Foregoing arcade action for a more measured simulation, with FIFA 08 EA has given the gamer - you by all accounts - the most realistic football game yet. Not perfect, but very, very good. The tinkering has finally paid off. [Issue#159, p.76]

HD is the most polished WipEout game so far, but doesn’t offer many new features. The single-player campaign warrants the low cost, but fans and newcomers alike will spend the most time seeking multiplayer thrills.

An absorbing, burtal experience (especially in multiplayer), featuring almost-tactile physics and visuals descending the uncanny valley. Some thought is needed though as to whether a realistic portrayal of boxing necessarily brings about its most spectacular possible videogame. [Issue#181, p.76]

Another essential download. [Issue#186, p.86]

A fun title. [Issue#188, p.87]

A near-perfect port. [Issue#194, p.99]

Gameflow is an addition that should help demystify Madden for newcomers and also offer enjoyment for experienced players. [Issue#196, p.88]

Pretty much the same game, only a bit better with Move. [Issue#197, p.95]

The best thing you can say about Rock Band 3 is that it's more of the same. [Issue#199, p.90]

The gameplay is as tight and fun as ever. [Issue#202, p.97]

Just a shame it's hard work at the start. [Issue#205, p.95]

A sizeable step over its predecessor. [Issue#215, p.84]

Disappointing lack of multiplayer aside, the platforming makes this one of the best games on Vita and its strengths suit the platform perfectly. [Issue#216, p.82]

Very good indeed. [Issue#216, p.84]

Successfully transplants the rally formula into an arcade mould, mainly because smashing stuff is fun. [Issue#219, p.72]

If you're looking for a novel take on the point-and-click adventure then this should be considered an immediate purchase. [Issue#227, p.74]

Dragonborn is full of bugs and its biggest selling point is a major disappointment. But this expansion has so much to offer that it's still more than worth the asking price, and just what fans are looking for. [Issue#229, p.73]

Does everything that you could want from a handheld turn-based strategy game, and manages to throw a few new ideas into the mix to keep it interesting. [Issue 144, p.86]

Entertaining gameplay with plenty of options to keep you busy, but the repetitive nature of it all keeps the score down. [Issue 144, p.81]

Not only is it the best game in the franchise so far, it's also one hell of a PSP game. [Issue#146, p.86]

Pretty much every major Marvel comic character of the last 50 years condensed into one game universe. [Issue #147, p.81]

Despite the obvious quality of the piece, it's something many of us simply can't get the most out of, and without a good deal of effort, it's something of a chore. It's time for the dreaded, "one for the fans." [Issue #150, p.60]

A quality title that gets better the deeper you get into it. Were it not for Insomniac's reliance on the weapon load-out, thte game may have benefitted from some real innovation. [Issue 148, p.58]

Bomberman fits nicely in your palm and is an easy recommendation for anyone with friends. [Issue #150, p.90]

Considerably better, more balanced and ultimately enjoyable than either the first title or the abysmal sister title from Nippon Ichi Software. [Issue 144, p.79]

Still good but little different from last year's effort so it's only really worth picking up if you're a massive basketball fan or a newcomer to the series. [Issue#146, p.93]

GRAW 2 is full of overblown, brilliant moments with only a sporadic dose of boring levels. [Issue#157, p.82]

A quacktacular giggle from start to finish combined with surprisingly valid puzzles make for what is being touted as the best game ever made by many in the office. [Issue #151, p.67]

Do not let Darksiders become another Conan, it deserves a better fate. [Issue#188, p.76]

It's the innovations and advancements that most impress here. [Issue#193, p.84]

Another positive step forward for EA’s Madden and one which stands tall against the PS3’s other offerings, including 2007’s entry. No one does gridiron quite like the guys at Electronic Arts. Brilliant.

Crystal Dynamics has revived the core values of the original Tomb Raider games and reminded fans what drew them to the series in the first place. It’s an enticingly open action-adventure game with a seriously sexy lead.

Prince Of Persia creates a beautiful world, and offers a real sense of wonder, as well as fantastic exploration opportunities. Aside from combat and camera issues, this is fun and a return to form for the prince.

This is a game of skill. It won’t get boring as long as you’ve got a worthy human opponent.

Absorbing, endearing and adorable. [Issue#185, p.80]

It's not for everyone, but the polished gameplay and sheer scale make DeathSpank well worth a download. [Issue#195, p.102]

Exact, precise controls. [Issue#196, p.92]

The ending may prove divisive, but thanks to some brilliant acting and well-balanced gameplay, Ninja Theory seems to have found the perfect storytelling formula. [Issue#197, p.76]

Constantly inventive. [Issue#202, p.96]

Betters the original in many ways, but simply doesn't improve on it in some others. [Issue#207, p.84]

Brilliant, exciting, fun and impressive - but also closely following an established formula and throwing in mostly pointless, gimmicky extras - Golden Abyss is a reason to own PSVita, but it also shows Uncharted will need to innovate in order to survive. [Issue#215, p.70]

Stabtastic. [Issue#216, p.85]

A very good brawler. [Issue#217, p.76]

With a staggering amount of content packed in, Mortal Kombat Vita not only benefits from the balance patches from the PS3 iteration but makes for the best version when played on the go. [Issue#219, p.78]

The papercraft-style visuals are the real treat. [Issue#227, p.77]

It has an interesting, if bizarre, story but does tend to suffer from too many random battles. Not one for newcomers. [Issue # 149, p.84]

Second only to "Syphon Filter" in the handheld action stakes, Miami Vice really is a most pleasant surprise. Attractive, enjoyable, with a raft of extras, this is just what a movie license should be. [Issue 144, p.82]

The major new addition - greater control of offensive blocking - offers a reliable alternative to players tired of throwing the ball. [Issue 148, p.84]

Okay, so Thrillville's brilliance is broken - but it's still brilliance nonetheless. [Issue # 147, p.72]

For arcade gameplay that's barely changed at all in the 20 years since the original, After Burner: Black Falcon still feels fresh and thrilling, and the graphical facelift it's been given makes it exciting to watch too. [Issue #152, p.70]

A truly excellent racing game, and a welcome addition to the PS3 canon. If it weren't for the lack of multiplayer this would score in the nineties. [JPN Import; Issue # 149, p.56]

Manhunt 2 offers heaps of grisly and depraved action, and we would have heartily recommended it to fans of the franchise. [Issue#155, p.76]

A gorgeous action RPG that'll inspire passion in the hardcore, Odin Sphere is only marred by its minor unbalance in combat, and occasional repetition. [Issue#164, p.91]

An incredibly satisfying challenge...However, it's not for the faint-hearted. [Issue#157, p.76]

Innovative levels and a great soundtrack. [Issue#155, p.92]

Does everything you would expect from a Madden title; either confuses the hell out of you or gives you an incredibly deep American football game. [Issue#157, p.81]

One of the more surprising games of the year - and the best Simpsons game to date. [Issue#160, p.92]

Japanese RPG and tactical RPG fans will fall in love with this game, but even if you can’t stomach the plot, the cut-scenes are skippable and the gameplay chapters are well worth waiting for.

The wireless buzzers are great, the price is unbeatable and it’ll always have new content. Buzz! is a brilliant, funny family game that doesn’t rip you off with costly peripherals. Great stuff.

Its skillful mix of old-school platforming and 3D gameplay is unique enough to set it apart from the competition, just don't expect to be totally blown away. [Issue#179, p.74]

Improves on the original in many ways, but fails to address its most fundamental flaw – that its challenges are generally too narrow, prescriptive and frustrating. The fantastic new Hall Of Meat mode offers some considerable compensation, though.

LocoRoco 2 is as amusing as the original, but the differences between the two are marginal at best. Luckily, the swell controls and endearing visuals will enchant the audience of the first all over again.

Short on content but solid technically. [Issue#182, p.76]

Feels even meatier and more believable than ever. [Issue#184, p.81]

One of the best PlayStation Network multiplayer experiences you can get. [Issue#185, p.87]

It's so utterly satisfying, you simply won't care that you're hammering two button for 12 hours. [Issue#184, p.70]

It's just a lot of fun. [Issue#186, p.74]

Evidence of talent and experience is all over it; evidence of effort is not. [Issue#186, p.76]

Hard as nails, but still incredibly satisfying. [Issue#192, p.97]

Compared to its peers, Toy Story 3 is gameplay dynamite. [Issue#195, p.96]

A solid strategy romp and well worth any strategy fans' time. [Issue#197, p.94]

NBA 2K11 is too complex - and difficult - for its own good. It's also clearly a good game. [Issue#199, p.89]

Forget all those earlier PS3 Sonic games, as we finally receive one that does the blue hedgehog proud. [Issue#199, p.102]

An extremely well-rounded twin-stick shooter. [Issue#201, p.99]

The best wrestling game in years that falls slightly short simply due to a lack of content. [Issue#204, p.80]

A highly recommended piece of DLC. [Issue#209, p.99]

A beautiful game with plenty of good intentions, but a near-vertical learning curve and some baffling AI render it art more than enjoyment. [Issue#211, p.98]

Instantly likeable. [Issue#212, p.103]

There are certainly enough challenges and enjoyment on offer to justify the price tag. [Issue#213, p.97]

Cheap as chips and wonderfully nostalgic, even for new players. [Feb 2012, p.81]

They don't make 'em like this any more. [Issue#216, p.72]

Brilliant fun. [Issue#218, p.81]

Recommended. [Issue#221, p.81]

One of Vita's best puzzle games. [Issue#222, p.81]

On the one hand, it's one of the best entries to the series. On the other hand it's pretty much the same game again, for 50 quid. [Issue#223, p.70]

Unpretentious in the extreme, comical by accident, irritating when it wants to be. [Issue#229, p.80]

A nostalgic blast for fans and a fun discovery for gamers who missed them the first time around. [Issue#230, p.78]

With over 400 items to be discovered or created in the game, Eternal Mana is a micro-manager's dream. [Apr 2006, p.103]

At times defending can be a frustrating affair owing mainly to some inept AI defending. [Issue #147, p.89]

Possibly the worst version of F.E.A.R. available. That doesn't make it a bad game, it just makes us a little jealous of our Xbox 360 and PC-playing pals. Whilst F.E.A.R. is still a great title, it just feels a little old and recycled for PS3. [Issue #151, p.82]

It's let down a bit by the dodgy camera perspective, but this won't ruin your experience. [Issue#156, p.86]

It's cheap and incredibly cheerful, even if it does make you swear at your mates a lot. [Issue#155, p.82]

Airtight's debut is an interesting one. [Issue#188, p.78]

Disgaea 3 is probably the most hardcore and uncompromisingly complex tactical RPG you’re likely to play. If you’re familiar with the genre then it comes highly recommended – if not, then try Valkyria Chronicles first.

It's a real step-up from last year's version of NBA Live, which felt stilted and robotic by comparison. [Issue#170, p.81]

Evades repetition with considerable grace. [Issue#172, p.93]

inFamous is a weird game – it’s entertaining and well developed, but lacks polish. Even though it’s really enjoyable, for the most part, it’s great but feels rough around the edges.

A collection of ideas - some tried and tested, some yet to be proven - all hanging together beautifully. [Issue#184, p.69]

There are a lot of new features, but most of them just make us shrug, while a few are a little bit annoying. [Issue#184, p.78]

A great take on a traditional game. [Issue#181, p.89]

Good fun. [Issue#186, p.79]

Don't expect a Fifties GTA and you'll come out much happier. [Issue#196, p.84]

As good a workout as the PS3 can offer. [Issue#200, p.96]

One of the most competent, solid, well-put-together J-RPGs you will ever play. [Issue#202, p.89]

It's not classic and fighter purists will find things to moan about, but that doesn't stop it from being a hell of a lot of fun. [Issue#205, p.82]

It's great, again, and the additions bring a wave of fresh air to the experience. [Issue#205, p.89]

Addictive like crack-coated Pringles. [Issue#208, p.99]

A strong sense of having seen it all before and some forgettable touch screen integration doesn't stop Virtua Tennis 4 from being a fun fit for Vita. [Issue#215, p.76]

It's good fun, testing both your problem solving and manual dexterity, and it makes good use of PS Vita's controls. [Issue#216, p.73]

A solid and enjoyable game to waste a few hours on, though it lacks any real draw to keep you going for a long time. [Issue#216, p.84]

It'll infuriate as many as it pleases, but Vatra Games has succeeded in crafting a true horror experience. [Issue#217, p.68]