It's more than just the best entry in an outstanding series though - it epitomises the very reason many of us play video games. And that's its greatest achievement.

Experiences like Journey don't come around very often in any form of media. thatgamecompany's crafted an interactive tour de force that's triumphant in its ability to cycle through human emotions. It's a game that demands your involvement on a spiritual level, rather than a purely mechanical one, and while it's never preachy in its philosophical intentions, it's hard not to get wrapped up in the divine nature of Journey's tale.

The Unfinished Swan is the second generation-defining downloadable from Sony in eight months. Giant Sparrow's debut is a confident, creative tour-de-force – and it's one of the most imaginative adventures you'll ever play.

Persona 4 Golden really is the complete package. It has an amazing story, charming characters, intense combat, and huge amounts of gameplay. Indeed, you'll be hard pressed to find an RPG as polished and well designed as this one – and whether you're new to the genre or an expert in the field, this is the very definition of a must play.

Dungeon Defenders is everything you could want from a downloadable title. The amount of content and number of possible play styles is astounding and, when combined with its addictive nature, makes for superb value for money.

Like last year's effort, NBA 2K12 is best enjoyed with DualShock 3 in hand, where it once again proves itself to be a phenomenal sporting game: frequently beautiful, with stunning presentation and even more stunning commentary, its breadth of game modes and depth of control take another step up over last year. The biggest disappointment is the fencing-in of Move controls, limiting it to a side attraction rather than a principle feature, but otherwise the game is as close to legendary as we've seen.

Child of Eden might be known primarily for its forefront position in Kinect's line-up, but it's just as comfortable on PlayStation Move, especially worthy of a purchase given the ridiculously good budget RRP. Rarely have we had as good a time with PlayStation Move - or any game in recent times, for that matter - as with Child of Eden, standing in a darkened room, the volume pumped high, playing by the light of the television and the Move controller alone.

Whether you're a fan of the first inFAMOUS or new to the series, the amount of gameplay and riveting story should please all. A few small tweaks to the Move controls would go a long way in improving the overall feel of the game but an absolutely fantastic and worthwhile title nonetheless.

Even with the lack of updated controls in two of the three titles, the intriguing storylines and updated graphics are well worth a look, giving you enough reason to sneak past the drawbacks.

There's a tangible insistence from gamers that this series needs to evolve, but it seems unwarranted when it still leads the FPS class. The engine's definitely in need of an overhaul, but when it comes to thumping set-pieces and addictive multiplayer design, Modern Warfare 3 is still in a league of its own.

It might very well be the best Hot Shots Golf game to date.

Mutant Blobs Attack is one of those games that absolutely hooks you from the moment you begin playing it and doesn't let go until the credits roll.

Great visuals, sounds, controls and overall gameplay make for a remarkable experience on a portable device.

A staggering title: not only is it a successful test bed for one of the PlayStation Vita's most promising features, but it's also a cunningly addictive game in its own right.

As amazing as Rayman Origins was on the home consoles, it's every bit as impressive on Vita.

It's not often that we see a console title end up being a better fit on a portable system, but after putting Super Stardust Delta through its paces it's abundantly clear that the experience fits the system like a glove.

MLB the Show 12 is an excellent game, incrementally better than its predecessor and still miles ahead of its competitor.

Its intricate story-telling and choice systems are something that'll come to define the series as one of the greatest stories ever told in video games, while its mix of gunplay and RPG elements are delivered in perfect measures.

Mortal Kombat on Vita packs the ultra-violent action of the series into your battle-hardened hands, and shows just how hard a punch Vita truly packs. With its $40 asking price for the entire home console game, DLC and large amount of exclusive additional content, Mortal Kombat is an essential Vita title that no fan of the genre should miss.

When Frozenbyte started its journey to create Trine 2, it's clear the studio decided to create the world it had always imagined. From the lush, beautiful visuals of the many exotic locales to the intricate puzzle designs, just like the waters that flow into this kingdom, the developer's passion can be seen, felt and heard; it's nothing short of magical. Stepping into the world of Trine 2 is much like stepping into one of the great Walt Disney's fairy tales, and shouldn't be missed.

A truly remarkable achievement: it's inventive, clever and brimming with ideas. Most impressively, it shows an emerging developer at the very top of its game; one that, based on the evidence of this outing, is destined to do wonderful things in the future.

At £9.99/$14.99, there's no excuse for fighting fans not to try Virtua Fighter 5 Final Showdown. Intricate and occasionally obtuse though it may be, it's also wonderfully balanced and endlessly varied; those who get past its initial barriers rarely go back. One of the world's best fighting games at this price should not be missed.

While the lack of Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker is extremely disappointing, if you own a Vita and somehow managed to miss all of the previous releases of these two titles, now is a better time than ever to come out of your cardboard box and experience these two award winning games whether at home or on the go.

Gravity Rush is a rare gem. It's a game that defies expectations almost as frequently as the physical properties it's built upon. A surreal narrative is complemented by genuinely ground-breaking gameplay mechanics, and while it's not always flawless, it culminates in one of the most outstandingly original experiences of the year.

With more features than we can fit in a review and an epic quest that can last up to 100 hours, Rainbow Moon is completely worthy of a boxed retail release. Instead, Rainbow Moon launched itself on PSN in the hopes to break our social lives, rather than our wallets. RPG fans, this one is not to be missed.

The handheld is perfect for the game's creative aspirations: the built-in levels are short and perfect for a portable, and it's easy to hop into the creator, mess around with something and save quickly whenever inspiration takes you. Mashing up audio, visuals and interactivity into a wonderful experience, Sound Shapes should definitely be on your playlist.

This is a game that is massively enhanced by drop-in/drop-out co-operative play offline, with a future patch promising to bring the same experience to online players as well. Average players will probably complete the first difficulty level in 2-3 hours and disappointingly, the only real replayability here involves beating the game again on a harder difficulty setting. But even with that in mind, Double Dragon Neon is easily one of the most polished PSN titles available to date, and if you don't at least give it a spin (kick), then the joke is on you.

We're also pleased that Sony has released it digitally in the west at a reduced price point; while it might indicate a lack of faith in Tokyo Jungle's commercial potential (which is a fair point - this is the kind of quirky game that would sink at physical retail), it means that it should reach as wide an audience as possible - and it certainly deserves to. It's definitely not lacking in bite.

LittleBigPlanet PS Vita is a portable powerhouse – a truly astounding experience that matches the ambition of its console counterparts. Tarsier has meticulously re-laid the foundations originally plotted by series creators Media Molecule, and constructed a pocketable planet brimming with potential. It's now down to the game's imaginative player base to furnish that virtual landmass with ideas and ambitions of its own.

NiGHTS is an important game for many reasons. Perhaps the most prevalent is that it shows creative thinking and unique ideas can create a game that is not only well-loved at its release, but also stands the test of time for future generations to enjoy. It's been 16 years since NiGHTS was released and yet it shines as bright today as it did then, inviting players into a world that is still unlike any other game. The terribly impatient might take issue with the initial lack of direction, but those that cherished the game on their Saturn and anyone looking for an engaging testament to a simpler time are going to be overjoyed with this.

If it's more of the same you want, with a few extras, some more polish and updated player rosters, have no fear – FIFA 13 scores effortlessly on that front. There aren't a whole lot of huge changes during this run out, but the substitutions across each mode, plus some smart new diversions such as Skill Games, the great integration of live team updates and tightened mechanics, ensure that it stays on top of the table for another year.

Dishonored probably could have done a little more with its narrative – but that shouldn't detract from its otherwise incredible achievements. The ability to elect different play styles is not merely a bullet-point here; it's the purpose of the entire game. And while you might not fall in love with the title immediately, allow Dunwall's rat-infested suburbs to crawl beneath your skin, and you'll eventually succumb to its charms like a plague.

Even if you managed to play the entirety of Retro City Rampage without understanding a single reference, you'll still find plenty to like about the game. However, if you've grown up playing video games and watching cult movies, your enjoyment will be amplified. This is a difficult type of title to pull off, but Vblank Entertainment's debut is the perfect parody.

BreakQuest: Extra Evolution is one of the most addictive block breakers since Shatter. With a treasure trove of gorgeous stages, a fantastic soundtrack, and a pocket change price-point, this is one PlayStation Mini that you can't afford to miss.

SuperBot Entertainment has meticulously merged three generations of platform lore into a four-player brawler that's both approachable and cunningly complex.

Need for Speed: Most Wanted's impressive selection of vehicles and vast open world should satisfy your high-speed hunger. With an impressive multiplayer suite, slick gameplay, and stunning visuals, this racer is a real treat. If you're a fan of the genre, Criterion's latest deserves a place at the top of your personal most wanted list.

Sine Mora is Latin for 'without delay', which is a fitting recommendation for one of the finest side-scrolling shooters of the generation. This a compelling tribute to a bygone era, and a must-have if you're a fan of the genre.

Far Cry 3 delivers a delightfully compelling narrative in a beautiful open world environment. The single-player is captivating from start to finish, and while the multiplayer lacks inspiration, it offers a decent distraction if you're looking for some fun in the sun with friends.

The Walking Dead is a phenomenal title that will live long in the memory of anyone who experiences it.

Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch is a masterpiece, lovingly crafted by both teams at Level-5 and Studio Ghibli. It's bursting with so much character, humour, strength, and sorrow that it's impossible to put down. The lively animation and whimsical design is flawless, with memorable characters that will stay with you throughout your entire gaming career. The narrative may not seem particularly groundbreaking at first, but this is an adventure that's unlike any other.

Tomb Raider is an exceptional game. Break-neck set pieces and quality combat help make the action exceedingly enjoyable, even if it does stray from the themes of the narrative at times. Impressive visuals and a lively environment brimming with distractions will encourage you to explore, while a solid if unspectacular multiplayer component provides some replayability. Nathan Drake may want to watch his back, because the queen of adventure's gunning for his crown.

BioShock Infinite is a sublime shooter set in a magical world. While the campaign’s final third never quite lives up to its breathtaking opening, there’s more than enough intrigue imprisoned within Columbia’s curious suspended districts to keep you compelled from the beginning right through to the very end.

Dragon’s Dogma isn't for everyone. It’s a time consuming and often brutal title, and its original flaws still remain – but the inclusion of Dark Arisen is just enough to push Capcom’s grand RPG up there with the best that the genre has to offer. You’ll be hard pressed to find a more rewarding, dynamic, and atmospheric adventure on the PS3.

Sporting satisfyingly deep, yet accessible fighting mechanics and a diverse range of gameplay modes, it’s hard to fault Arc System Works' intense entry into the Persona franchise. Persona 4 Arena is a focused and polished brawler that will appeal to both fans of the series and fighting aficionados alike, and has proven to be well worth the wait for European gamers.

A fine example of how pointing technology can add something worthwhile and extra to a platformer. There's plenty of game to get your head around, and it's all delivered with wonderful presentation - including enough colour to fill a huge box of Crayola - and infectious music that stays in your mind for hours.

inFAMOUS: Festival of Blood is a great addition to the series and a solid game for Cole fans or even someone looking for a taste of his power without taking the plunge into his previous adventures. Even with many of the features being recycled from the previous games in the series, Move support and user-generated content help keep the game fresh for the die hard fans.

Move Mind Benders is cheaper than buying all three games on PSN, with the bonus that Lemmings is enhanced for Move. It's definitely worth picking up for puzzle fans, as long as you haven't got any of the titles here already: although Lemmings is good, it's not worth the asking price alone.

An essential winter warmer for those in need of some Christmas or New Year's Eve entertainment.

Daytona USA is a game makes you feel young again, and you really can't put a price on that.

Despite its length, size and scope, the game finally feels at home next to other PlayStation Store curiosities such as Limbo, flower and Okabu. You owe it to yourself to give the game a chance.

SoulCalibur V stumbles in several big ways, but luckily what counts the most – gameplay – shines as brightly as the holy blade the game is named after. If stubborn fans can get past the new cast and gameplay tweaks, they'll find that what made previous SoulCalibur games so great is all still there.

Hopefully EA reconsiders its approach to toppling Call Of Duty in the future, and allows its games to develop their own personality, rather than imitate something else.

Offers a lot of gameplay and a great addition to the XIII plot. Even though the graphics weren't revolutionary like XIII's and the slight pacing issue still remains, Final Fantasy XIII-2 is very good.

Thankfully, the source material is the finest of its kind, and adapts enough modern bells and whistles to make the game well worth your while.

A few technical limitations aside, it's time to become the impostor and spend an endless amount of hours mindlessly addicted to the high flying, Batman-less action at stake, or the joke's on you for missing out.

Even with the frustrating - and completely optional - touch controls and lack of an online multiplayer mode, Lumines Electronic Symphony is the best in the series.

While the game doesn't quite reach the level of bombast found in the console iterations, Uncharted: Golden Abyss sets a high bar for what portable gaming is capable of, setting a promising benchmark for what Sony's latest portable powerhouse can deliver.

The upgrade to HD in Sigma on PS3 was a visual tour de force and it's even more so on Vita's beautiful OLED screen.

Purists will still lament some of the key problems with Virtua Tennis 4's gameplay – the overemphasis on netplay can result in some repetitive rallies – but without Top Spin to compete with it, this is currently the best option available for handheld tennis.

Hustle Kings is open to everybody, from experienced players to pool paupers – just as long as you're willing to listen to its suggestions and learn how to curve a ball.

Eat Sleep Play might not be upfront about all of the game's mechanics, but the joy is in discovery - it's a game that encourages you to experiment and rewards you for doing so.

While its urban tone can be a little grating, the consideration put into the game's attacking mechanics make it a surprisingly deep and replayable package.

Despite the lacklustre online multiplayer that's been tacked on, the explosive campaign's action packed set pieces will constantly find your finger squeezing on the hammer one minute and tugging on your emotions the next with its diverse cast of likeable characters, as they fight to right the wrongs of morality towards mankind.

Anyone looking to get into the fighting genre would fare well here: it's not too technical at first, but offers enough gameplay and modes to turn you into a combo-mashing pro while keeping you entertained.

Not only does the game fit the PlayStation Vita like a glove, it's still one of the most engaging tower defence games ever crafted and the perfect game for those times when you want something you can quickly get into and play.

Arc System Works squeezed a staggering amount of fighting action into this portable rendition of BlazBlue: Continuum Shift. Not only are you getting one of the deepest fighting games you're ever likely to encounter, you're also getting more playing modes than you'll know what to do with. But be warned - if you're one of those fighting game fans that likes to be able to pick up a fighter and become skilled quite quickly, this is probably not the game for you. Button mashers need not even apply.

Beatshapers and Orb Games' high-octane action puzzle title is the perfect antidote to the post-launch blues, and, despite some minor difficulty barriers, is a worthy addition to your growing Vita collection.

While certainly not terribly friendly to newcomers, seasoned fans will find a heaping helping of engaging strategy gameplay to sink their teeth into and an adventure that offers up countless hours of play to those willing to explore all it has to offer.

House of the Dead 4's crawl onto PSN brings the zombie-infested action of the arcades right into your house of the living. At about the same cost as a pocketful of quarters, you can grab a friend and Move controllers and relive the arcade experience from the relative safety of your home.

Skullgirls doesn't rework the fighting game template; there's no massive overhaul of 2D scrappers, no single big idea that makes it stand apart from others in the genre. It takes what works and adds a few flourishes of its own, and that's a solid enough foundation for a series that we'll certainly see again.

For purists, newbies or even those just looking to try a Warriors title again, Next is definitely worthy of being the next game booted up in your Vita.

The complex tactical nature of the title won't appeal to everybody, but it's ultimately what sets it apart. If you're looking for a new shooter with a deep single player campaign, then Starhawk isn't it, but if you're in the market for a clever and fundamentally different multiplayer game, then this should absolutely be on your radar.

With an intriguing editing style and story, rock-solid performances and eye candy galore, Max Payne 3's campaign hits hard where most games whiff. While the gunplay is gorgeous and Superman-ing around the room doesn't really get old, sadly the core combat doesn't quite reach the dizzying heights of the wrapper - faithful to the series, but a bit arrested.

Dragon's Dogma is a real success for Capcom - consistently entertaining and compelling, it's a pleasure to explore its world. The pawn system and variety of skills and vocations keeps combat enjoyable even after dozens of hours, and while multiplayer would have been the icing on the cake, there's more than enough here to entertain a single player for weeks. A solid and worthwhile purchase.

DiRT purists will feel put off by Showdown's unruly sense of style, but Codemasters is clearly coveting a different audience with its latest jaunt on the race track. Slick multiplayer and an outstanding roster of activities make for an enjoyable ride, even if it is a predominantly exhausting one.

Ghost Recon: Future Soldier has several technical flaws and leans too much on the story devices conceived by several other modern day shooters to its detriment, but where its campaign diversifies with elements of stealth, teamwork and gadgetry it really shines. It's the multiplayer that turns out best, however, focusing on fewer modes of good quality that encourage co-operation rather than all-out killing.

Atelier Meruru is a niche title. Those who love Japanese-style games or who get a kick out of playing with crafting systems will absolutely be in love the second the game boots up. There are a few minor faults, for sure, but if Atelier Meruru has what you're looking for you're going to have a hard time putting it down.

There are enough different obstacles to stave off complacency, clever boss battles to overcome and it's presented wonderfully through a design that owes much to Japanese folklore, with just enough of a twist to make it Dakko Dakko's own.

So if you've got a Vita handy and a pocketful of quarters, you can trade in your heavy pocket of change for a pocketful of some of the best classic pinball tables ever created. While nothing can ever truly recreate playing these classic tables in the arcades, The Pinball Arcade is definitely the next best thing.

LEGO Batman 2 is refreshingly straightforward, rarely frustrating and tailored perfectly to younger gamers. It also treats adults with respect, with universally appealing humour and gameplay that is relatively free of faff and full of fun. Though it's unfortunately dragged down by some technical hitches, on the whole it's a heroic effort and probably the best LEGO game to date. Thanks to the open world and voice acting, it's certainly the most ambitious.

Ratchet & Clank's third native PS3 adventure A Crack in Time remains the popular duo's most essential outing, but that doesn't detract from the Ratchet & Clank Trilogy's appeal. If you're eager to learn a little more about the franchise's origins, or simply want to re-visit three of the greatest PS2 titles ever crafted, then you'll be well serviced here.

Dyad looks tough to fathom, but with the controller in your hands it's not only a hypnotic game but also a very fair one. It pulls together audio, visual and control well, so even at its most visually confusing it rarely feels like you're not pulling the strings. And while it's possible to complete quite easily on a surface level, mastering its depths to claim all the rewards and place well on the leaderboards could take a rather long time indeed.

Beatshapers is no stranger to the PlayStation universe, as they're known for bringing a unique mixture of hit indie titles over to the PS Mini service. With Tribute Games' Wizorb, they've stirred up the nostalgia pot and formulated an RPG infused Arkanoid clone that's sure to warm the hearts of old-school souls.

Spec Ops: The Line is a solid, action packed shooter that sets itself apart by demonstrating the brutal realities of war. The fragile lines of morality are easily blurred, and sometimes, only visible when crossed.

A short second half and some technical issues let it down, but Darksiders II is still a fantastic, ambitious action-adventure that does plenty right. The combat is satisfying, the upgrade systems are full of possibility, and at its high points it not only hits the right notes but slices them clean through. If you're after a large scale fantasy adventure that makes you think as well as fight, Darksiders II is where it's at this year.

Not top dog, but not in the land of nod either; Sleeping Dogs is a predictable but thoroughly enjoyable open world romp. Its undercover narrative and atmospheric Asian setting help to augment the title with an original identity, even if it's forced to sit a couple of places behind Rockstar's Grand Theft Auto franchise in the sandbox pecking order.

If you're looking for an innovative take on the rhythm genre, Retro/Grade is your jam.

The HD upgrade has given an already visually impressive title a fresh lick of paint, and the fact that Sega has been able to secure almost all of the original soundtrack means that it sounds as good as it looks. Fuse this effortlessly cool presentation with some engaging and challenging gameplay and you've got one of the few genuinely timeless classics of the past few decades.

Borderlands 2 doesn't quite recapture the same sense of wide-eyed wonder that made its predecessor such a commercial smash-hit, but it's still a dangerously addictive game.

Zen Pinball 2 is all you really need if you're after a decent variety of pinball tables to play around with; whether you're at home or on the move, your scores – and those of your friends, provided you have an Internet connection – are always there to be beaten. The tables are intelligently designed and not too costly, there are more than enough settings to fiddle with, and the chance to craft your own collection without being forced to pay for any unwanted tables is very welcome

Sonic Adventure 2 offers the same thrills as its Dreamcast and GameCube predecessors without sacrificing too much. The online features from the Dreamcast title are unfortunately stripped, and the GameCube extras are only available as paid DLC – making this PSN download worth skipping if you already own either of the original titles. But for those who haven't yet experienced the fast paced adventure, this is a stellar port of an old classic.

Joe Danger 2: The Movie is a compelling proposition for wannabe stuntmen. The distracting visual presentation can lead to some unfortunate mistakes, and loading times can get a little long – but overlook these flaws, and there's no danger whatsoever of you not thoroughly enjoying your time on set.

Sports Champions 2 is some of the most fun you can have with a PlayStation Move controller in your hand. The title is accessible enough to make it a perfect fit for parties, but it boasts enough depth to keep enthusiastic gamers occupied long after everyone's gone home. The activities are largely well selected, and the calibration improvements are technologically impressive. It's just a shame that online multiplayer's still absent, otherwise this would have been an unmissable release.

Okami HD is a timeless classic, full of charm, subtle ingenuity, and beauty, remade in stunning HD, yet sadly it's embellished with some graphical issues. It's a must-have for first-time buyers, but offers little improvement for those who have already enjoyed all 40+ hours of the game on other platforms.

Though its approach doesn't always succeed, it's comforting to see Ubisoft experiment with the franchise so it doesn't become stale; Assassin's Creed III may not deliver on the revolution that was promised, but it keeps hope alive that we might see one in the not-so-distant future.

XCOM: Enemy Unknown is a real sleeper hit. Save for repetitive level design, a basic online component, and some questionable voice acting, the game is magnificent. It may take longer than most to appreciate, but it never fails to deliver.

Hitman: Absolution represents a stellar return for Agent 47, incorporating the best elements from previous titles, while also experimenting with plenty of new ideas. Some of the additions are a little rough around the edges – the narrative stumbles over its ridiculous characters, and the checkpoint system discourages experimentation – but it's still a refreshing experience that challenges your thinking and rewards perfection.

Zero Escape: Virtue's Last Reward is a deep, engaging, and incredibly intelligent visual novel. It's a shame that the game doesn't do more with the hardware, but its meaningful player decisions, taxing puzzle elements, and unforgivably mature themes fuse to create one of the best Vita titles so far.