This is a bold step for an RTS into the ripe and unconquered pastures of the Internet, and while it isn't completely surefooted, its spears are certainly sharp.

If you've got time to kill, Tropico 4 is perfect. It hasn't changed much since its predecessor, but it's still an excellent simulation – something that's welcome in the era of visuals-conscious FPSs and lacklustre adventure games. A modernised concept, that's perfectly period.

Bite-sized gaming at its best.

A taste for micromanagement, high difficulty and a tactical way of battling is essential to enjoy Disgaea 4.

A mostly triumphant and surprisingly refreshing return to the FPS' favourite setting. Although the single-player is rather lacking, the attention to detail and harrowing atmosphere make for some intense and gripping multiplayer battles.

An interesting mix. If it wasn't so daunting, it'd pick up more fans.

Experiencing Resident 4 HD, everything is as it ever was. The visual upgrade is well received, and the game's narrative is as terrifying and enticing as ever. Capcom have played this one safe, as it would have been nice to see them try and mix things up with a new inventory system.

Experiencing Resident 4 HD, everything is as it ever was. The visual upgrade is well received, and the game's narrative is as terrifying and enticing as ever. Capcom have played this one safe, as it would have been nice to see them try and mix things up with a new inventory system.

It may be a simple old-school arcade twin-stick shooter but the huge maps, secondary objectives, and fun things to discover like being able to collapse buildings by driving through them elevate Renegade Ops to must-play territory.

It's a welcome addition to the franchise and one that slots perfectly into your gaming collection.

PES 2012 plays an extremely entertaining brand of football, largely sweeping away the complaints of the two previous versions in the process. There are problems for sure, but it's nice to know that whichever of the football titans you choose this year, you'll get a decent result.

PES 2012 plays an extremely entertaining brand of football, largely sweeping away the complaints of the two previous versions in the process. There are problems for sure, but it's nice to know that whichever of the football titans you choose this year, you'll get a decent result.

This game preys on your feelings, and is very skilled at manipulating them. Make no mistake, it takes a certain kind of person (never mind gamer) to stick with and possibly enjoy this game - we believe they are sometimes called Masochists - but Dark Souls does what it does extremely well, and it's to be applauded for that at least.

This game preys on your feelings, and is very skilled at manipulating them. Make no mistake, it takes a certain kind of person (never mind gamer) to stick with and possibly enjoy this game - we believe they are sometimes called Masochists - but Dark Souls does what it does extremely well, and it's to be applauded for that at least.

F1 2011 has got the talent, but it needs to learn to love itself before it can be truly great.

Best of all, when you dive into the first corner melee on race day, the sheer thrill of trying to avoid the seemingly impossible number of cars around you is simply unrivalled.

It's very difficult to adequately score or sum up FIFA 12, simply because it's taken such a risk with an established formula, one that's turned out – eventually – well indeed, but also one that requires a lot of effort to learn and get used to, something a lot of people might not want to do.

It's very difficult to adequately score or sum up FIFA 12, simply because it's taken such a risk with an established formula, one that's turned out – eventually – well indeed, but also one that requires a lot of effort to learn and get used to, something a lot of people might not want to do.

It's a unique window into the world of the iconic TV show, with splashes of brilliance from one of the finest developers of this generation.

It's testimony to Harmonix that the Dance Central series has become an essential purchase for Kinect owners. Having two players in front of the screen is tremendous fun, and adds to the game's appeal massively.

The ending's superb (much better than both New Vegas and Fallout 3), and I never was bored or wanted to give up. It's not the full Fallout experience, but as the ultimate final test of your skills it works very nicely. Now then… when's Skyrim out again?

Is it better than last year? It offers a more complete package and the interfaces are much improved, but some of the sports lack the pace and excitement which really makes this a key party piece. It still goes down though as one of the best Kinect titles money can buy.

A triumphant return for the series, albeit one slightly spoiled by a ridiculous name change and irksome DRM. Nonetheless, the game manages to be simultaneously slick and expansive, complex yet simple to learn. As I myself discovered, if you're yet to try the series, now is a good time to get involved.

It could do with a few more levels, a bonus stage, more bosses, slightly tighter controls and a load more playtesting.

It could do with a few more levels, a bonus stage, more bosses, slightly tighter controls and a load more playtesting.

One of the most refreshing turn-based strategy games I've experienced for some time. It's clever and deeply tactical, yet also manages to be relatively quick-paced and exciting.

The controls, simply, work. These kinds of games have had varying amounts of success on the console this generation, with things like Command & Conquer Red Alert 3 coming close but just not being good enough, but in this case Tropico makes a great case for these once PC-only genres appearing on console.

That's the story of Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3: This is actually the game that the original should've been. If you've not played MVC3 or traded it in and want another fix, this is absolutely the best route to go. If you bought the original, how much do you love MVC? If you want more, go get it – the newcomers are great fun.

That's the story of Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3: This is actually the game that the original should've been. If you've not played MVC3 or traded it in and want another fix, this is absolutely the best route to go. If you bought the original, how much do you love MVC? If you want more, go get it – the newcomers are great fun.

If you've never played Overkill before this is the definitive version of a great game. It's something that might only be played once but will be remembered fondly after that fact as a fun experience. It's hilarious, sometimes disgusting, sometimes ridiculous and almost always fun – especially when playing with a friend.

Saints Row: The Third is a consistently thrilling and addictive streak through the sandbox genre's most popular avenues, even if it is as shallow as the 'GTL' lifestyle it strives to promote.

Saints Row: The Third is a consistently thrilling and addictive streak through the sandbox genre's most popular avenues, even if it is as shallow as the 'GTL' lifestyle it strives to promote.

I am extremely glad of Serious Sam 3's existence. It serves as a timely reminder of how shooters don't need to be highly restrictive rollercoasters that heavily manipulate the player in order to create intensity and epic spectacle.

Xtreme Legends, though, is a proposition only for the hardcore Warriors fan or at a bargain basement price. With the original Dynasty Warriors 7 now reduced, picking up this package that arguably has less compelling content and asks for the original disc for some of its modes seems crazy. If you're just looking for some mindless hacking and slashing, though, this'll do fine.

Issues with the presentation of the story and the general amount of single player content on offer are slight dings against the experience especially considering SoulCalibur's history of blending RPG elements into its single player campaigns - but even then this is the best reason to return to SoulCalibur's stage of history since the days of the Dreamcast.

A gigantic and compelling RPG experience. It's not quite ready to topple the big guns of the genre, but despite feeling "inspired" by every RPG or fantasy ever made it manages to offer a unique and entertaining alternative. Even if it does add yet another surly scantily-clad elf girl to the genre.

There's a lot to said for visuals these days though, and having played the PC version extensively we're not sure we could then go to the console with a neutral mind-set. Swings and Roundabouts, as they say, but Reckoning is a good game all round and well worth getting – no matter the platform.

Improves vastly on a lot of the formula that made the first outing good; better and sexier powers, more stuff on screen to play with, addictive collectibles and fun bonus objectives, rewarding and pip-boy-esque mutations and, frankly, a better all-round character in James Heller.

Once the initial 'oooooo' factor wears off, singleplayer does get a bit tiresome if you haven't got a purpose, but then all you need is a couple of online friends or someone in your own house to share the experience with, and it becomes fun again.

If you can get over the relative tedium of the dungeons you'll be trawling through, there's a deep indie RPG adventure here. Certainly it's good enough to recommend to old codgers who remember the likes of Eye of the Beholder or Lands of Lore.

It's terrific fun and ably demonstrates an exciting new genre for console gamers.

For a game that can take mere moments to complete, there's an impressive amount of depth to Sniper Challenge.

With awesome character customization and the impressively bold approach the pawn system takes to storytelling and online connectivity, that makes this all the more worth exploring, even in spite of its sometimes conspicuous faults.

Whatever your experience with the series, if you've ever been fond of alternative racing games and have friends wanting to go for a spin with you then Joy Ride Turbo is a no-brainer. It's a legitimate alternative, perhaps an outright replacement, for the likes of Mario Kart.

It doesn't hurt that the gun play is extremely well realised, with each weapon feeling distinctive, and even, dare it be said, approaching realism.

Some areas still need more fleshing out, and there's some things that haven't been touched on at all here that could do with some work, but Civilization V is certainly better with Gods & Kings, and there is plenty of new content here to justify the cost.

It's funny, it'll push your mind to breaking point but never go over, and is expertly designed and polished to perfection. Well, at least in its puzzle rooms, which are basically the entire game so we won't worry too much about the repeating filler rooms.

Regardless of its technical shortcomings, CoS provides a superbly engaging story driven experience, that feels uniquely its own. When a story makes you care about its characters, it's a triumph, and in this, Chains of Satinav excels.

Through a combination of streamlining what is a genuinely complicated game and using a simple but effective presentation, the developers have one of the best downloadable games PS3 has ever seen.

I enjoyed exploring and the missions were always entertaining. You'll probably need at least one friend to buy the game and play some missions with you, but as superbly Funcom allow players to move their characters between servers at will (YES!) and join forces with players of a different faction (hooray!) this becomes very easy.

Endless Space may not push any boundaries or possess much 'wow' factor, but it's a very enjoyable 4X strategy game, set in a rich and diverse science-fiction universe that begs exploration.

This is a videogame that deserved a bit more attention, rather than being labelled as simply a fun download only diversion. That said, Papo & Yo is still a remarkable experience, one of the most emotive games of the year so far and one that will stay with you well after the credits have rolled.

The franchise is certainly improving its core mechanics, placing an emphasis on the minor details that will get fans excited. Hardly anything has changed on the surface, but beneath the exterior there's a sturdier, sharper and far tougher posterior to break through.

It's definitely going to be punishing to casual players or people who simply aren't that good, but if you do manage to get to grips with it, it's very rewarding. It can sometimes feel a little grindy, especially early on as you're trying to save up money to perfect your first load out, but other than that this is one good looking and well-made man stabber.

It isn't the greatest, but it keeps making strides to reclaim its former glory.

Resident Evil 6 is the disfigured spawn of a generation that is best known for Call of Duty. We've got Resident Evil 4's atmosphere spliced into the body of Operation Racoon City's action. Moments of brilliance clash with sections of irritation.

I have no idea where the story is going next, and I'm itching to find out.

Trials Evolution's first batch of DLC is exactly what the game needs. A decent amount of extra content for 400 MSP will rejuvenate interest in those who have moved on. Upon returning you'll notice a richer, more diverse community to enjoy.

Should you buy Baldur's Gate: Enhanced Edition if you own it on GOG? Probably not. A few optional characters, a Horde mode, and a few built-in modifications do not a Really Special Edition make. You should absolutely play Baldur's Gate if you don't mind isometric RPGs that give you a real challenge, since the writing is still amazing and both the world and combat system are still really deep and engrossing.

DmC does a fantastic job of being immediately recognisable as a game belonging to the franchise, while also providing an experience that will introduce those unfamiliar to it. It's sleek and cool, providing a frantic and flowing combat system that underlies and defines it from the get-go. Dante doesn't just look cooler, he plays cooler, and this may well be the series' finest hour.

Overall if you've got the rig and a game controller plugged in then DmC: Devil May Cry is great start to a new direction for the series, and hopefully one that will get to keep exploring this new, grittier Dante.

Franchise aficionados will know how convoluted Metal Gear plots can be. Revengeance also stumbles into preachy territory and tries to provide comment on America, politics and terrorism. This is expected for the most part and doesn't become too overbearing until the final hour, where cutscenes take an even greater role in proceedings. If the sociocultural commentary becomes too much, Virtual Reality missions offer a direct chance to get down and dirty.

A fantastic game of exploration and survival. You can occasionally feel lost in its open-world that lacks any real signposting, but the simple joy of digging and crafting means you’ll keep playing to discover the naturally-occurring progress.

As I said at the start. Motocross Madness is a whole lot of fun. It's not without its problems, and it is a bit rough around the edges, but none of that matters. It's just fun. If you can scrounge up some mates multiplayer is a great laugh too.

Fortunately by being just generally being more challenging for both stealth and action gamers Knife of Dunwall is a decent piece of DLC no matter how it’s sliced. There may be only two real missions over five levels but there’s so much packed in those levels that I spend a good few days exploring them, and was left fully satisfied.

Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon, expansion or no, is the game Duke Nukem Forever should’ve been – all ridiculous lines, over-the-top moments, glorious cheese all the way, with plenty of moments where you feel like the greatest bad-ass in the world.

Leviathan’s simplicity is its strength – the games not that hard to make, it’s not that hard to learn, it doesn’t cost that much to acquire, yet it takes hours to master, hours to fiddle and tweak your ship and fleet loadouts.

It leaves once again a lasting impact and shows the real depths city building can go to and how strategy counts all the way. A few questionable elements hover like a dark cloud but honestly this is the best experience you’ll have to sate a city building lust, Roman or not.

It carries that rare trait of success where many expansions suffer miserably and leave many gamers in despair.

A great, if not fantastic adventure game that any fans of the genre must get a copy of. It was surprisingly intriguing and has now perhaps spoilt things for me, as anything less than ‘Tunguska quality’ and I’ll be gaming elsewhere.

Gothic 3 is a deep and rich world, waiting for your guidance to free or subjugate mankind. Any RPG lover must have this, but you may want to wait a while for the patches to arrive and then settle down.

A welcome addition to the strategy genre, offering a few new ideas sprinkled over a solid base of classic turn-based gameplay.

Armed Assaults comes with all the bells and whistles any gamer would love in a combat simulator, despite some really poor choice of menus, texts and questionable briefing presentations.

A very fun game for the buck. It’s a nice addition to the season arc, and likely my favorite of the four.

All in all, Shadowgrounds: Survivor is a game for fans, casual gamers, and for gamers who miss the old ‘simple’ style of the arcade era. Newcomers may be a little put off with the ‘enter-in-the-middle-of-a-story’ feeling, but if you just ignore the story completely, then what you are left with is a perfectly enjoyable third-person shooter.

The story falters towards the end, and the fact that the game is so short is the biggest bummer of all. Regardless, it’s a great game that will be remembered for a long time coming.

The story falters towards the end, and the fact that the game is so short is the biggest bummer of all. Regardless, it’s a great game that will be remembered for a long time coming.

There's no doubt that Flying Lab have created the best online sea-faring adventure there is for players to get their fix of the Caribbean with such a large, intricate and growing community.

The level of historical detail on offer will be enviable to even the more established franchises, and whilst Imperium doesn't do anything to reinvent the genre as a whole, it's certainly a well-refined product that's worth a look to veteran players; or particularly those of you jumping in for the first time. Solid, if unspectacular then.

The only issue that stuck out like a sore thumb was that the magnetism of the cursor was poor and three options to change it didn’t help either. For only 800 Microsoft Points, Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3: Commander’s Challenge has plenty of replay value for offline players.

The only issue that stuck out like a sore thumb was that the magnetism of the cursor was poor and three options to change it didn’t help either. For only 800 Microsoft Points, Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3: Commander’s Challenge has plenty of replay value for offline players.

MotoGP 09/10 is a solid, enjoyable racer that manages to capture the feel of charging about a track on a Superbike without being inaccessible to newcomers to the series.

MotoGP 09/10 is a solid, enjoyable racer that manages to capture the feel of charging about a track on a Superbike without being inaccessible to newcomers to the series.

Blacklight: Tango Down turns out to be too much fun for the slowness of the matchmaking system to prove too much of an obstacle.

Whatever your feelings about Cars, arguably Pixar's least popular movie series, you can't deny the quality of Cars 2: The Video Game. It's everything that typical movie games aren't, being fun, content-rich and technically solid.

Whatever your feelings about Cars, arguably Pixar's least popular movie series, you can't deny the quality of Cars 2: The Video Game. It's everything that typical movie games aren't, being fun, content-rich and technically solid.

Whatever your feelings about Cars, arguably Pixar's least popular movie series, you can't deny the quality of Cars 2: The Video Game. It's everything that typical movie games aren't, being fun, content-rich and technically solid.

Succeeds and amazes in some areas but almost horridly trips and stumbles along in others. Still I find myself liking the game and am willing to overlook its potholes.

Perhaps not one for the hardcore role player, but an FPS gamer or MMO addict might well find The Witcher to be a great alternative to watching a DVD during the evening.

If breathing through the rifle’s scope, watching your subject walk unaware of his soon-to-be demise is not enough to make you feel like an assassin, then this may be the wrong game for you.

It has some nice features which make it better than an average FPS, but the things that are missing mean it’s never going to be great.

Obviously there are a few limitations such as only having 5 characters, but that’s not too much of a problem. I was personally impressed.

The AI for all of the Battlefield suite is well written, but there's nothing like a human opponent or partner to add spice to the experience.

If you like a hack and slash game in the style of "Diablo," then you’ll definitely enjoy Titan Quest. If, on the other hand, you’re looking for a true role-playing experience in which bashing things with a sword, spear, axe, bow, or some other weapon isn’t the only way to achieve your goal, you’re probably better off playing "Oblivion" or waiting for "Neverwinter Nights II."

Dawn of Magic contains enough deep content and a pleasing enough approach to the genre to recommend a purchase, but only if you know what's in-store and don't mind the incessantly repetitive nature of the combat.

Sword of the Stars is unique from other turn-based space empire titles out there, the enormous sizes of the galaxies and their shapes set it apart. Players of the original will already be familiar with this but for those still in the dark, space is all 3D here and not just in terms of pretty graphics.

Despite a few annoyances, Darksiders still manages to coax you in with it's scale and scope, proving to be a uniquely enjoyable and involving hack and slash title well worth spending time with.

Despite a few annoyances, Darksiders still manages to coax you in with it's scale and scope, proving to be a uniquely enjoyable and involving hack and slash title well worth spending time with.

All in all Supreme Ruler is a solid game.

The best advice anyone can be given is to pick up South Park: Let’s Go Tower Defense Play! for the Xbox Live Arcade if they are either a fan of the genre or a huge South Park fan by default.

If you forgive it for its flaws, the game accomplishes its mission. You end up with a taste of what it’s like to be Tony Montana.

The first time that I was the exploder instead of the explodee I think I scared my fish with the hollering. It’s so fun to see the pieces go flying!

The turn based combined with RTF is unique and fun, providing a little time for thinking and not so much twitchy trigger finger.

The acceleration, the speed and the presence of distractions and the actual destruction of my enemies are lovable on screen.

A great adventure game and certainly worth the time for fans of the genre with its blend of beautiful environments, sounds and entertaining puzzles.

An entertaining addition, with a great game engine. Sadly I can’t see it breaking out and drawing a huge following simply because the WWII RTS genre has been done to death.

While the game does deliver a nice bundle of challenges and like a larger number of other adventure titles now it comes with a FPS feel, you could still do better.

It’s the best damn football game ever made, but only by a gnat’s whisker, and if anything that whisker is merely the updated seasonal player data which separates it from Pro "Evolution Soccer 5."

Much care has been taken with character, monster and environment design, so even if it is all a bit boring and repetitive, and insists on making obvious statements, it sure is pretty to look at.

Satisfying if a bit on the short side.

The emphasis on grinding, the linear environment and the rather uninspired early levels pose a serious threat to this games growth. Whilst these are things that cannot be changed, it will depend on what NCSoft will do next which will ultimately make or break it.

Whilst the integration of the physics system within the environment in Penumbra is certainly more deeply-ingrained, the puzzles themselves never quite reach the same level of ingenuity as the classic Valve title.

On the one hand, it’s a fun, addictive little game that’s a good homage to a classic genre. On the other hand, as of publication there are still quite a few bugs and entire features that just haven’t been implemented yet. Coupled with the lack of a truly competitive element this game will probably only entertain hardcore fans of the genre.

Whilst Section 8 may not be revolutionary, it’s a refreshing take on the genre.

A decent little title, and a testament to just how far you can take your hobby if you but try.

You won't be buying AvP for its single-player though, and if you are you may find yourself sorely disappointed. Rebellion has built AvP around its multiplayer, which is both well-constructed and surprisingly well-balanced.

You won't be buying AvP for its single-player though, and if you are you may find yourself sorely disappointed. Rebellion has built AvP around its multiplayer, which is both well-constructed and surprisingly well-balanced.

You won't be buying AvP for its single-player though, and if you are you may find yourself sorely disappointed. Rebellion has built AvP around its multiplayer, which is both well-constructed and surprisingly well-balanced.

We like Halo 3: ODST and welcome the injection of personality brought to the narrative by your lost crew - especially Firefly actor Nathan Fillion as Buck - but it doesn’t quite manage to live up to our lofty expectations of what a Halo title should offer.

NBA Live 10 is a step in the right direction for the series. The gameplay and graphics are heading towards offering the best package for the next-generation consoles – especially now that 2K Sports stunk it up with NBA 2K10.

With the customary spit and polish the engine will receive over the next year, Champions Online certainly has the potential to turn into the best superhero MMO out there. For now, that mantle still belongs to City of Heroes, but having played both games throughout beta and release, this is certainly a more daring title in the initial stages.

It is best not to come into Sonic & Knuckles looking for redrawn sprites or HD graphics – this is a faithful port that doesn’t try to crush anyone’s memories of how the game performed in the ‘90’s.

Star Ocean: The Last Hope's retina scorching vistas and fast-paced swordplay, you'll be well served.

Story-wise, you'll be hooked enough that you'll want to finish Prince of Persia: The Forgotten Sands, but it's the always engaging gameplay that's king here.

Story-wise, you'll be hooked enough that you'll want to finish Prince of Persia: The Forgotten Sands, but it's the always engaging gameplay that's king here.

There is more than enough content here to keep avid adventure and puzzle gurus occupied.

It’s a shame that the online aspects are so hit and miss, but the new chapter helps to smooth over that complaint. It’s old school and simple, but if you can look past that you’ll definitely have a blast with Doom II on Xbox Live Arcade.

It's gets a tad dull by the end of the game, and as your character levels up, it becomes less of a challenge as well (unless you're on harder difficulties, naturally).

For a 4X strategy title it hits a lot of the sweet spots you want and is a great entry for anyone who wants to give running a star spanning empire a whirl.

Dodgy camera and mildly repetitive dungeon scenery aside, Trinity Universe has a lot going for it. The subtleties of the Fury battle system and the humorous storylines will keep you entertained for hours on end.

The plot is bland and often corny, but the gameplay is mostly solid and enjoyable.

The plot is bland and often corny, but the gameplay is mostly solid and enjoyable.

If you're at all a fan of old-school 90's shooters, Serious Sam or just superb multiplayer fun, Serious Sam HD: The Second Encounter could be the perfect distraction from all the serious shooters being released in 2010.

After a run-and-pass arcade footballer, then pick up PES. Anything else, then FIFA's ahead by a long shot.

After a run-and-pass arcade footballer, then pick up PES. Anything else, then FIFA's ahead by a long shot.

After a run-and-pass arcade footballer, then pick up PES. Anything else, then FIFA's ahead by a long shot.

After the massive improvement of last year, we're glad to see the WWE brand is back on track.

In many ways, Blood Stone is a mediocre title. Graphically, characters look dull and frankly some PS2 and Xbox titles looked better.

After the massive improvement of last year, we're glad to see the WWE brand is back on track.

In many ways, Blood Stone is a mediocre title. Graphically, characters look dull and frankly some PS2 and Xbox titles looked better.

Until a more precise programme comes along, Your Shape will do a great job of keeping you active with minimal fuss.

Those of you yet to delve into the Blood Bowl universe will find a game with hours of entertainment to uncover, provided you manage to scale the steep learning curve and avoid the pitfalls of mismatching. Online however, Blood Bowl is a rare treat - and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it.

Propaganda have done a really good job in crafting something that not only achieves its main purpose, but also doesn't completely suck.

Propaganda have done a really good job in crafting something that not only achieves its main purpose, but also doesn't completely suck.

Superstars V8 Racing is a worthy PSN title to pick up for racing fans. That being said, it isn't as cheap as most store offerings, and so just how essential it is depends on your budget. I enjoyed my time with V8 Racing, and I know plenty of other people will too.

It's good that Focus offered a significant discount to anyone who had already bought Cities XL, as otherwise there would be little here to entice old players. New people to the franchise who've longed for a decent city-builder should definitely try this out though.

Raskulls is cute, fun and clever, but it won't be for everyone. A more casual player will most likely get a big kick out of racing around bashing bricks, but the more hardcore Xbox owner will long for a more beefy experience.

For those after a fresh twist on a near-expired genre, MicroBot offers enough action to get your heart pumping.

But is it worth the initial investment? Due to the impressive groundwork laid by the excellent character creation and combat, I'd say yes.

Test Drive Unlimited 2 will most likely receive a cult following for its kooky characters and general offbeat atmosphere, and the solid multiplayer options will keep many coming back. A word of warning, however - give this one a rent before you go the whole hog, as the baffling physics and numerous technical oddities are sure to kill this ride for many.

Test Drive Unlimited 2 will most likely receive a cult following for its kooky characters and general offbeat atmosphere, and the solid multiplayer options will keep many coming back. A word of warning, however - give this one a rent before you go the whole hog, as the baffling physics and numerous technical oddities are sure to kill this ride for many.

On a basic level Hard Corps: Uprising is excellent, retaining the Contra spirit yet giving it a new lease of life. As such, series fans and old-school throwbacks will probably love every minute of it, regardless of cost. However, it does get bogged down a little by the strangely bad voice acting, downloadable content concerns and its meek attempt at catering for a broader, less experienced audience.

With 100 buildings, twelve scenarios and thirty vehicle types, we're hoping that the game will be well supported by an active modding community as well as post-release DLC. At the moment actual content is a tad sparse, but at a knockdown price of £14.99, you're getting a lot for your money.

Explodemon is great fun for a few hours, providing interesting puzzles to blast your way through and many a secret to uncover. Repetition swiftly sets in, however, and you may well find yourself not bothering to play through to the end. Still, it's worth grabbing the demo to see whether you're into the concept.

Gemini Rue is a truly great adventure game, with its clever mix of puzzles, logic and action, marred only by a convoluted aura.

A rollickingly gory ride, packing with blood, style and content. If only it built on its foundations, rather than pounding us with the same repetitive gameplay throughout, this would be a must-have.

The Next Big Thing, then, is not exactly what it says on the tin - but we still got plenty of laughs out of it. If you're on the prowl for a point-and-click adventure, this will easily tide you over until the next Telltale title comes knocking. Never before has a game produced a character who was so... disconcerting.

Gatling Gears offers several hours of enjoyable carnage and it's doubly fun with a friend, but it settles into a routine early on and sticks to it.

Not a bad game then by any stretch, but hopefully the last small iteration before Sega's inaugural next-next-gen outing.

Not a bad game then by any stretch, but hopefully the last small iteration before Sega's inaugural next-next-gen outing.

On its own Generations isn't going to do much for your experience, but in conjunction with everything else it just makes for a more interesting experience.

FEAR 3 would just be considered an okay shooter with a terrible story and poor attempts at horror, if it wasn't for the wealth of unique side-options it brings to the FPS table.

For all its faults though, Pirates of Black Cove is a very endearing game.

Despite lacking the scripted set-pieces of a so-called 'AAA' game, Insect Armageddon does a remarkable job of showing what a focused team can produce on a minimal budget.

Despite lacking the scripted set-pieces of a so-called 'AAA' game, Insect Armageddon does a remarkable job of showing what a focused team can produce on a minimal budget.

One of 2011's best surprises.

In a year of big-hitters, Space Marine is one hell of a surprise.

Despite it's downfalls, El Shaddai is a memorable experience from start to finish. It offers a quirkiness and sense of style that is not only unique, it's surprisingly refreshing.

Despite it's downfalls, El Shaddai is a memorable experience from start to finish. It offers a quirkiness and sense of style that is not only unique, it's surprisingly refreshing.

What it loses in realism it makes up for with variety and a strong presentation.

What it loses in realism it makes up for with variety and a strong presentation.

Unlike anything you'll have ever played. For this fact alone, it's worth a look. Even if the platforming itself is floaty, and later levels fail to inspire the same 'wow' reaction that early ones do, this is an interesting addition to the PSN.

Although the action in the final scenes is some of the best the title has to offer, the delivery of the narrative's closing stages is rushed and ultimately seems rather weak.

Finally significant progress has been put into place, as the game's backbone is starting to feel sturdy enough to carry the weight of expectation.

Finally significant progress has been put into place, as the game's backbone is starting to feel sturdy enough to carry the weight of expectation.

On its own merits, the PC version of Insect Armageddon is a strong port of the most modern and proficient Earth Defense Force yet. The downloadable version is even cheaper than its console counterparts too, currently "e-tailing" for £14.99 on Steam.

All Zombies Must Die is a solid shooter with RPG elements and a decent level of character upgrading. Unfortunately, it's let down a little by the monotonous missions of 'kill that' or 'collect this'. Rachel isn't a particularly likable either - of course, you don't have to use her at all!

Despite its short-length, bland level design and forgettable bosses, The Darkness II is a thoroughly entertaining blast from start to finish. Who knew dismembering hordes of enemies would be such a guilty pleasure?

It's fair to say Final Fantasy XIII-2 is an appealing return for the much-adhered franchise. It offers some truly unique and intriguing gameplay elements that will invite newcomers whilst challenging series aficionados. This is extremely important after the failings of XIII, as it shows Square Enix are prepared to keep building on the RPG formula they shaped. Serah's adventure is an entertaining and dynamic one, signalling that Final Fantasy is moving in the right direction once again.

Once I got into a mission I found it hard to stop until all my plans worked out, and even defeat often had me immediately coming back to try again. That's the mark of an addictive, fun game, which Jagged Alliance: Back In Action definitely is, but it just doesn't do quite enough to earn the really high marks.

While Syndicate's a good solid FPS, it wastes its world, its unique ideas and its potential. And that's just a damn shame. Bloody corporations.

This is a low-budget affair however, make no mistake, but as long as your brain can get over the sound of three British blokes hamming up their lines with conviction, then you'll uncover a decent amount of charm within Da New Guys script.

The rhythmic chants of bygone planes is something that easily get your juices flowing.

It's a decent stab at resurrecting the atmosphere and sense of foreboding that the series was once known for, and if it wasn't for those frequent technical hitches, it could well have been one of the best in the series. As it stands, it's a very, very good survival horror title.

Going into Yakuza: Dead Souls I had some reservations, but after playing it, I'm happy to say that this works surprisingly well.

There are small issues with the HD conversion – especially in the menus – but this still feels like one of the more accomplished HD collections this generation.

It might not have the longevity of a full action-RPG or the combat depth of the best side-scrolling beat-em-ups, but the balance that Lionhead has struck between accessibility and quick 10-15 minute bursts of fun is hard to resist.

Some of its more unique spin on things do shine through, such as City management, but others like the added adventure/discovery element just get lost amongst the need to survive.

This one's going to be a bit of a slow burner we imagine – needs more content, more tweaking, and obviously the community needs building upon too. But it's got good tech and good support from Bohemia behind it, and we'd be surprised if this didn't do as well as the realities of this niche allow it to do.

Yes the second episode isn't anywhere near as much as a challenge as the first, featuring puzzles that you'll solve by just walking around and clicking on things, but all the choices you'll be deciding and seeing how they turn out still make The Walking Dead a delight to play – and those choices are well-implemented, causing massive changes to the group and how they react to Lee.

Some of the challenge of the original Zuma is clearly gone.

Instilled with an obvious reverence and applied knowledge of the genre, The Journey Down is an adventure game made by people who love adventure games. The ride's a little bumpy at the moment, but it's surely going interesting places.

F1 2012 produces an excellent race, but we've seen it all before.

After last year's encouraging switch-up, the developer hasn't done enough to iron out encounters in the ring. A little imagination would go a long way with WWE's next installment.

A decent choice for any PS3 owners looking to get off the sofa this Christmas.

Zone of the Enders ultimately doesn't offer much, but then it didn't really promise much either – it's a great, if short ride for any mech fans, and even those who just enjoy fast paced action games should get a good kick out of this as well. Here's to Zone of the Enders 3.

Ultimately, we can’t help but feel that you’ll play through the rather short campaign, and while you’ll probably have a great time doing it, you’ll shrug your shoulders and either give multiplayer a quick blast, and/or go back to Call of Duty or something.

In the long term though, I think Cities in Motion 2 will turn out to be a far better game than the original one was. Once the team get rid of the rest of the bug fixes, and fix that problem with short-term gameplay to pull people through, then this should become one decent transport simulator.

A good blend of economics and warfare, Paradox fans and newcomers alike should like it. Those who liked the new trade system in Empire will love this game, as whilst not being perfect, it sure as hell is addictive.

Green Day Rock Band is an enjoyable distraction but wholly unnecessary especially when you look at the features announced for Rock Band 3.

Green Day Rock Band is an enjoyable distraction but wholly unnecessary especially when you look at the features announced for Rock Band 3.

A game specifically catered to football enthusiasts who are not really on the nitty-gritty of football technicalities. Creativity and the spirit of the football game are the very elements that EA and Tiburion had wonderfully weaved into this All-American game.

An involving game, with interesting varied strategic options and challenges thrown at the player.

If this were a TV show, one watch of this and any TV network would commission a full series – much like any adventure game fan who tries this will almost certainly follow this series throughout its run - provided it sticks to a somewhat regular release schedule.

The Guild 2: Pirates of the European Seas does justice to the franchise and certainly shows in the areas it has listened to the community.

Overall there is probably not enough in here to make it worth upgrading if you already own the previous version. The new additions and tweaks are all very welcome and should encourage more people to enjoy what is a solid and fascinating game. That said, if you are a war fanatic, as some of us war gamers tend to be, then you will obviously lap up the new features and get a lot more value out of the game.

All in all I didn't have too many complaints about Bus Driver. It's a simple casual game, but it does what it sets out to do well.

Order of War does little to justify a purchase above the likes of CoH or Dawn of War II. The campaign modes are light on depth, and most seasoned players will breeze through before heading back to the heavy-hitters.