One of the most controversial games for the Playstation has created a bigger, better, badder, and more f***ed up sequel.

Truly a fantastic game and shines like a diamond stone. With the limitations of the PlayStation, the developers have still managed to cram every last bit of detail into this one. Go out a buy it. Now!

Gt Interactive has hit a sweet spot with this must have title of the year.

A must get for any serious RPG gamer. Looks great sitting next to Final Fantasy VII.

The tracks to this game can get sort of boring after awhile of playing the game (most of the tracks are the same, they just re-route them for you to go in different directions).

I found the game very deep and rewarding even with just one license. With over 70 cars to choose from, there really is quite a variety in driving styles throughout the different models over the decades.

This is a simply must buy product.

Graphics, handling, sound, depth and polish are all abundant in this game and if you like driving games, or perhaps even if you don't, you will love Colin McRae 2.

It's an incredible system that only gets better with repeated play. Every aspect of control is duly handed to the player.

The perfect amalgamation of it's cousins, employing the best bits from both and coming up trumps.

Simply put Chu Chu is sheer simplicity yet devilishly tough gaming perfection.

Hard-core RPG fans may feel the game is too derivative, to a certain extent it is, but for the rest of us Golden Sun is both a fantastic game and a nice trip down memory lane.

For a handheld, the AI of your computer-controlled opponents is surprisingly diverse and complex.

For me Super Mario World is the greatest Mario game ever, now that it's on the GameBoy Advance both my sleep and relationship are beginning to suffer, I simply can't put it down.

Being the Bomberman purist that I am, it’s the multiplayer modes that kept me hooked.

Perhaps the only niggle that you can level at Metroid Fusion, is that the focus on strong story telling reduces the exploration aspect, an area that the Metroid series is virtually unrivalled in.

Special mention going to the sound effects and music which are superb, every blow and block is recreated whilst a thumping tune plays in the background.

Balanced and refined with plenty of time having been devoted to the game mechanics and design everything is just immensely enjoyable.

The range of driving skills required, the excellent combo Kudos system, the satisfying handling and range of unlockable extras ensure this is a game you'll keep playing.

Kingdom Under Fire: The Crusaders literally takes this genre to new heights; the amalgamation of action and strategy is the best we've seen in a game of this type to date, and creates an enticing experience that is very hard to put down.

It was slightly disappointing to see the visuals downgraded and no real thought into the conversion.

Without doubt Fable is one of the finest videogames yet that we've had the pleasure to play, in which your actions have a definite consequence to the progress of the game – it's all handled so naturally, that a lot of it passes you by without noticing.

It is the best version around, but it’s because the game is just so much fun that people should pick this one up. If you’ve own the PS2 version or have played it before, there’s not much point.

One key improvement over the PS2 version is the lack of load times. Whereas levels had to be chopped up in that version the Xbox allows them to be loaded in the same way as the PC original, virtually eliminating any load times and keeping the sense of immersion high.

Perhaps the most impressive part of NBA2k2’s presentation is not the graphics, sumptuous as they are, but the audio. The commentary in this game is wonderful, the best in any sports game to put it simply.

The actual racing experience is virtually second to none, each car handles wonderfully different to the last you raced in, with a very solid and weighty feeling to them.

A welcome addition to the Panzer Dragoon series, and can rightly hold its head high as one of the finest shooters ever created.

Overall this is a retina burning experience, the Xbox tricks of texturing and lighting are used to great effect here, the detail on the textures being of particular note.

Improvements to the interaction with the environment and further polish to the overall look would have resulted in a perfect score, as it stands KotoR offers one of the most enthralling and rewarding experiences you're likely to have with a videogame for quite some time.

If this had Xbox Live! support it would be a definite 10; one of the most enjoyable gaming experiences you can have on Xbox - get it now...

Retains a feeling that we haven't felt from playing videogames in a long, long time; perhaps it's the sheer difficulty challenge, a key component to many long-forgotten classics; perhaps it's the fact that gameplay prevails over story and character development, something sadly missing from many of today's games; perhaps it's just the fact that Ninja Gaiden is just a damn fun game to play.

It begins at a frantic pace and those early stages are particularly brilliant, however it's over all too soon and the cliffhanger climax is likely to infuriate as many as those who begin counting down the days until "Halo 3."

It's a surprisingly long game, with plenty to do away from the main story; Thief will consume you for months on end.

You cannot help but be impressed by the level of [sound] quality, from the superb voice acting to the suitably epic score featured throughout; exceptional on all parts.

One of the smartest and most informed ways we have seen in creating a realistic setting/atmosphere in a game and this offers so much more than you can possibly imagine.

It's the multiplayer which has completely engulfed us; we've yet to play an Xbox Live! game which felt so refreshing, as we said towards the beginning, there's no reason why this shouldn't do for Xbox Live! what "Counter-Strike" did to PC gaming.

The finest combat system we've seen so far, coupled with strong moralistic storytelling and enjoyable gameplay, results in a must-have purchase.

It may not be the most original game in the world, but the fact that it offers a level of fun that is certainly unparalleled in the genre more than makes up for that.

Every aspect comes together to create a gaming experience that is one of the most polished and perfected we've ever seen, regardless of genre – you simply need Burnout 3: Takedown now.

Merges both action and stealth perfectly to create a completely enthralling experience. Whereas it's a definite split between the two in most other titles, Butcher Bay fuses the two seamlessly, resulting in an entirely satisfying experience that plays wonderfully.

In introducing weapon modification and more importantly Adrenaline/Healing Tool, Pariah ends up feeling significantly different to the vast majority of shooters on the market, there's a definite sense of survival to the whole experience.

A really good beat-en-up that really absorbs players. Graphically the game is very well done, and the soundtracks enhance the whole hip-hop underground scene that the title is trying to represent and exaggerate.

Very much more of the same, with Obsidian rarely straying from Bioware's original formula. If you're a KOTOR fan then this is a must have, it's as simple as that.

Quite honestly the first realistic shooter I've found myself completely enthralled within. It's cross between Medal of Honor/Call of Duty and Full Spectrum Warrior gameplay creates an experience that is fresh and compelling, while the multiplayer mode should make this one of the most popular titles around.

Its immense thrills and spills through the open-ended city of Bayview is exhilarating, and the culture that is emerging is created in the game to great effect.

Creates the most exhilarating sensation of speed in a videogame as well as offering the most comprehensive modification package in a street racing title yet.

Forza Motorsport doesn't just straddle the gap between "PGR2" and "GT4," it sits perfectly between the two, offering the best of both worlds and rarely puts a foot (or should that be 'pedal') wrong.

The combination of cutting-edge technology and consuming game design creates an experience that is hard to put down, and it's really only minor gripes that prevent this from being a perfect score.

Of course there are improvements, the draw distance and lighting models have received subtle enhancements, more importantly the frame-rate maintains a smoother pace throughout.

Those who won't look at a game unless it's got big guns and lots of mindless goons to destroy will likely detest Fahrenheit and wonder what the fuss is all about; however those who'd like to glimpse how videogames can become an effective means to telling stories and interacting with them will find one of the surprising contenders for Game of the Year.

Fantastic presentation, highly addictive intense gameplay and plenty to play – racing games just don't get any better then this, make sure to check it out immediately.

Utterly brilliant and everything that we could have hoped for. Team 17 have performed an excellent job of retaining the look and feel of 'Worms' whilst changing the scope of the game enough to make it feel fresh and new for everybody.

It's still an arcade shooter that lacks the depth of the X-Wing/TIE Fighter series. However it's the rare case when the slick presentation just improves everything beyond belief.

Completely rips apart the rulebook, delivering a 'fun' fighting game that everyone can play.

Although the game is slightly disappointing on a couple of levels, the truth is its Mario Kart, who couldn't love it. The actual races are absolutely brilliant particularly in multiplayer, however the Battle Mode is surprisingly weak.

If you have more than one console then the Xbox is best, followed closely by the PS2 then the GameCube version. In comparison to the others, this one has the slight framerate issues.

One of the very few games to masterfully merge artistic style with compelling substance in the wonderful visuals, brilliant combat system and great game concepts.

A challenging, gorgeous, serious and compelling game.

Pikmin 2 not only improves upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, but wraps strategy, action and puzzle elements into one highly addictive and enjoyable experience that it seems only Nintendo are capable of.

There can be no doubting that as an adventure game with elements of action and puzzle, and a storyline that requires the player to work at and deduct as you progress through the game, there's very little to touch it on any format.

While at a glance it seems that this game is just a slightly more polished SSX engine with new levels, the new single player campaign makes such an impact on how the game is presented and played that it really sets this game out from its predecessors.

Offers an intense, action packed experience that ties in a nice selection of varied gameplay aspects to ensure the game never gets tired.

It may not be the most original game in the world, but the fact that it offers a level of fun that is certainly unparalleled in the genre more than makes up for that.

It's hard to say how impressed we'll be with future Marios after this one. For now Banjo has the nod with detailed, 3D graphics, crisp sound, beautfiul control and the best gameplay seen on the N64. Excellent job Rare and Nintendo.

The orginality is definitely here, and the fun and excitement is also packed into this game.

With the random track generator, the smooth visuals, the awesome multiplayer & the comic-book atmosphere, this game becomes a must-by.

If there was one thing that I had to moan about, it would be the story which involves Humans and Dolphins travelling outer space in little bubbles, until an evil alien species invades the earth and it's up to Ecco to save the day whilst the rest our up in space...

Its beautiful, fast, fun, and full of style, there's nothing out on the market like it so expect to be surprised the first time you see it in action.

The big improvement for me is that everything is a lot less linear then before; it really does feel that your actions directly influence Ryo’s progress through the adventure.

This really is a staggering game with so much effort obviously put in to it, you just have to be impressed.

It's very accessible to those new to driving simulators or those used to arcade style racers, but its also very challenging for the veteran racers out there too.

A streamlined sonic that’s nearly as good as the originals but not quite.

Whether you want to play online against 7 others, split screen with three friends, or alone against multiple bots, UT will not disappoint.

One of the greatest racing games to come out in a long time, stacking up and in some areas surpassing even "Gran Turismo."

Brilliant. Fans of the original have to buy this as it’s taken the winning formula and improved it in ever way conceivable.

One of the best videogames ever created, something that should forever be remembered.

Slick prentation and excellent gameplay.

"Marvel vs. Capcom 2" has rekindled my excitement for Capcom's 2D fighting games, and will be causing my left thumb much more trauma in the coming months.

If Codemasters' long-running rally series suffered something of an identity crisis with its transition to the DiRT name, then DiRT 3 has put that crisis to rest. The publisher has found an amorous new bedfellow in Ken Block and successfully built a game around his invigorating style while also managing to retain what made the series great in the first place.

If Codemasters' long-running rally series suffered something of an identity crisis with its transition to the DiRT name, then DiRT 3 has put that crisis to rest. The publisher has found an amorous new bedfellow in Ken Block and successfully built a game around his invigorating style while also managing to retain what made the series great in the first place.

Truly a must-have XBLA game, From Dust can hold its head up high amongst the likes of Limbo, Braid, and Super Meat Boy – much like those platformers, Eric Chahi's long-awaited return has brought back a sadly forgotten gaming genre and given it a fresh breath of life. It's been a long time coming, but with any luck a god gaming renaissance is upon us.

The strides forward over last year's game really do place Codies' F1 series amongst the most dynamic sports series in video games today, ensuring that if you played and enjoyed last year's game then you'd be mad not to get in on the ground floor of this year's improvements.

The strides forward over last year's game really do place Codies' F1 series amongst the most dynamic sports series in video games today, ensuring that if you played and enjoyed last year's game then you'd be mad not to get in on the ground floor of this year's improvements.

Last year's foibles have been successfully plastered over with a quite brilliant Career mode and improvements on the defensive side of the ball are nothing short of revolutionary.

Last year's foibles have been successfully plastered over with a quite brilliant Career mode and improvements on the defensive side of the ball are nothing short of revolutionary.

In a single-player campaign that goes a bit over-the-top at times, it's a relief to see that the action is scaled-back with Soap and Price often enough to ensure that these characters receive the billing they deserve. Elsewhere in the multiplayer, Infinity Ward was always going to have a hard time replicating the impact of its package from two years ago but it's managed a rock-solid, if slightly conservative offering for this difficult third album in the Modern Warfare series.

In a single-player campaign that goes a bit over-the-top at times, it's a relief to see that the action is scaled-back with Soap and Price often enough to ensure that these characters receive the billing they deserve. Elsewhere in the multiplayer, Infinity Ward was always going to have a hard time replicating the impact of its package from two years ago but it's managed a rock-solid, if slightly conservative offering for this difficult third album in the Modern Warfare series.

At times you're left with the impression that Uncharted 3 could have been bolder – the blueprint of success from Uncharted 2 has perhaps been adhered to a little too closely here. Beyond the slightly out-of-place gun combat and familiar box of tricks though, this third attempt is still a genuine innovator thanks mostly to an otherwise stagnant genre.

The game has a strong tendency to drop you in some town or dungeon with no clear idea of where you should go. Coupled with the fact that enemies respawn whenever you exit a room, and navigating becomes quite the chore.

If you are an avid ... aficionado [of the sport], the included course designer makes Links worth more than its $55 retail price.

The simple interface combined with the depth and detailed gameplay ensure this is a great game to play, the wonderful visuals and compelling storyline guarantee that you’ll be playing this for quite awhile.

It lacks the polish of other Westwood games, however seeing as this is their first foray into three dimensions we can forgive the slightly rough feel and lack of overall refinement.

It’s not perfect, it does get tedious at the start as you’re trying to level up, it’s not for everyone, but for those brought up on Elite you’ll love it.

It's not perfect, when the different styles fail to gel the game can become frustrating, however when it does, it offers one of the best FPS experiences around.

The game plays incredibly well and allows beginners as well as pros to enjoy the game effortlessly.

It’s a fantastic system that allows you to become more involved with your troops and resources on an individual level, ensuring a higher level of attention is paid on developing tactics and strategies based on the different warriors you’ve got.

A perfect balance between authenticity and accessibility. It probably won’t appeal to the hard-core sim fans, whilst those that like their action immediately up front will probably also be deterred.

Don't get me wrong, I think the game itself is excellent, but I wouldn't see myself plunking down fifty bucks to own it.

If you have enjoyed Track and Field games in the past, you will find everything that you have grown to love with better graphics and a few new extras.

Soul Reaver 2 has some excellent moments, carried through with superb narrative, an excellent story and some stunning visuals, however it’s just not enough for me anymore…

Simply the greatest point-and-click adventure game to date, whilst it may seam a little strange at time hang on there you will be rewarded in the end.

Offers a more depth and is generally more fun then every other Motocross title before it.

A peculiar game, a very specialist title more like a true flight-sim then the arcade games we’re used to on consoles, yet the controls have been thought about to ensure its accessibility.

As a sequel it does not offer that much more than the original, but it polishes it up and is no doubt a better game, and what more could you ask for from a sequel of this nature?

A classic example of style with substance to match, a 'cool' title if you will, that’s bound to impress.

It's visual splendour; novel yet neat additions and generally tight gameplay will ensure the time until the next ISS goes that little bit quicker, OK I'll admit it I'm hooked.

A rough diamond, beneath that stuttering framerate is a wonderfully innovative shooter that is a joy to play and brings some great ideas to the genre.

Perhaps the most impressive visual aspect to Downforce is the games split-screen multiplayer mode which stays extremely quick, with no loss in quality, framerate or objects on-screen.

Emphasis is placed on speed, power-slides and in the traditional EA BIG manner getting your blood pumping through a mixture of big-beat music and intense action; on this front Shox does not disappoint.

The little inaccuracies can be forgotten by all but the most die-hard of Star Wars fans, whilst there are enough cosmetic touches to differentiate this from "AoE2" and allow you to submerse yourself in the Star Wars universe.

The sense of immersion through intelligent AI, captivating missions, wonderful visuals, atmospheric sounds and the balance of action/strategy has opened my eyes.

Two player cooperative play is a big bonus, and hopefully will set a trend in future space-fighter games.

All of the changes that they’ve made have come through, and whilst it may not play as realistically as Pro Evolution Soccer, the overall feel is more akin to the proper game then previous versions.

It’s a game that has almost unlimited replay value and depth, whilst the tutorial section does an admirable job of introducing you to the genre if you’re new to this type of game.

The modifications that Appaloosa have made may sound simple but they enhance the game beyond recognition, tightening up the gameplay to what is now a extremely polished and well focused adventure title.

Those who lost interest in this genre a long time ago won’t find the experience here to regenerate their faith. It’s a shame because the actual storytelling and directing is a work of genius that demands to be witnessed, whilst the visuals are quite possibly the best you’ll ever witness on a Playstation2.

A slightly bizarre mixture of realism and fantasy. All of the attention paid to replicating the courses and cars doesn’t seem to have been applied to the actual game and its mechanics, racing takes on more of an arcade like feel, whilst there isn’t that much depth to the actual going’s on behind the scenes.

It’s certainly not for everyone because of the poor design, weak interface and completely unfriendly learning curve, however those who like their strategy first and foremost and those interested in the games settings will likely gain enjoyment - just remember to scratch beneath the surface.

Although this is definitely a nice addition compared to the typically linear nature of titles in this genre, we would have liked to see the developers stretch the barrel a little bit further.

A lot of the new features fail to add anything of any substantial merit and actually continue to break up the experience, whilst the jungle location is certainly a required taste.

For fans of the series this game is a must, it's the game that both "Soul Reaver 2" and "Blood Omen 2" should have been.

Any downsides or real negatives? None, apart from the need for a powerful PC to possibly experience the game in even more quality. If goaded to pick up any concerns it would have been for slightly more variety in the layout of the levels, with a touch more ingenuity.

Despite our concerns over the lack of a full 3D engine, Sim City 4 is a beautiful game to behold.

Whilst the other games offered smaller updates to the main game, On Holiday brings in an entirely new location with a whole stack of new features and objects you can interact with.

If you enjoy madcap racing games like "Crazy Taxi," "Driver," or the original "Midtown Madness" you should feel right at home with Midtown Madness 2.

A top-notch expansion pack that Medieval fans will love. You get a major new campaign as well as lots of extras for "Medieval Total War" that substantially increases its life.

The storyline, as well as tasks in hand, all work in perfect synergy, which gives this game its uniqueness. The puzzles in themselves may not be overly taxing, nor some of the stealthy actions, but as far as pure unabated storytelling and immersive interaction goes this works a treat!

The full frontal presentation is the overriding factor for GBE and if you feel that too much emphasis is being placed on its importance and that of its quality and the inordinate amount of audio that is packed into it, which is superb, then you would be wrong.

Those who enjoyed the micro management of the first title, may be disillusioned by the slightly trivial nature of this compared to the first title. However the game becomes much more enjoyable after the first few hours.

Not a bad attempt for the first 3D UO game but personally I was expecting more in the way of new items and things to do.

It creates a superbly tense atmosphere that draws you in and completely immerses you, we can’t think of any other stealth game that’s managed this to such good effect. We also like to see developers stretch beyond the barriers and explore ways to touch the players’ emotions – this game certainly does that. But on the other hand the repetition soon becomes apparent and its lack of depth.

Fans of the original won't find much more here to interest them, but hopefully, like with me, it'll relight the flame and at least spark up their interest in the game itself once again.

Some may say that the 2D structure is dated and that the move to 3D is well overdue, however American Conquest like Cossacks does such a fine job with the detail of the environments and the armies, a change here could prove disastrous.

The US version of Tekken Tag Tournament is without flicker, or as some people call them: "jaggies".

This one requires a little more brainpower and I warn you now, be prepared to get frustrated. Lots!

It lacks the finer subtitles that recent FPS such as "MoH: Allied Assault" and "Wolfenstein" both have. However Westwood have done a fantastic job of recreating the C&C universe in the first-person perspective.

I do like this game, and I feel that if a few problems are fixed, it could rank up there with the Tony Hawk’s, and the Aggressive Inline’s of the extreme world.

A great title for strategy fans, offering a near perfect blend of strategy and action.

The inside levels feel confined and just lack the excitement of the excellently implemented exterior sections. That said the internal sections are not all that bad, it’s just a case of wishing for something slightly different.

Those who enjoyed Galactic Battlegrounds will find this expansion pack an essential purchase, not only does it have new material, the modifications balance the game and improve upon it.

The idea of creating your own world is welcomed, and the graphics are good at times, but do falter at certain stages especially throughout the dungeon levels.

Whilst the graphics aren’t exactly the most impressive seen on the PlayStation 2; the gameplay makes up for the lack in looks.

Whilst the actual game can’t compete with the fluid and brilliant motion of "Pro Evo 3", it has to be said that the outstanding visuals, attention to detail and correct licenses certainly provide a brilliant compliment to Konami's effort.

The variety with the games objects, as well in locations, aint half bad and that alongside some really plush graphics gives this almost instant appeal, which proves a point that some TV programs do transform into half decent games.

The graphics at first may seem to be a little too grainy, however the atmosphere created from it is pure genius.

Part of me is screaming at the lack of analogue support and the frustrating nature of pre-rendered environments. However once you get past that and slaughter your first wave of demons you can’t help but get sucked into the game.

Although Midnight Club II is no match for the mighty "Burnout 2" it is worth a purchase if street racing is your thing. There is a nice selection of missions and cars to choose from and the urge to keep trying again is present in most of the levels.

A funny game; the opening phase is likely to put off most gamers as it’s too long-winded, slow, frustrating and just not exciting enough; however persevere and you’ll be rewarded with a decent action/adventure title with ludicrously high production values.

A great action title... The problem is that we had such high expectations for the game, expecting a true next-gen title to really push the genre forward, in this respect The Getaway falls short of the mark.

It's fun to play but more importantly captures the Wallace & Gromit spirit perfectly.

Reality Pump have refined the genre to near perfection, and until we see some radical changes to the RTS formula you’ll be hard pressed to find a better title.

I find it a real shame that the whole tactical side was dropped, as not only would controlling a mob add more depth it now seems that the use of hundreds of AI characters has been a complete waste of time.

Achieves the Holy Grail in the action/adventure genre, by perfectly merging arcade action with sufficient strategy and depth. We loved every moment in the game.

A traditional FPS that’s been polished as far as they can go with the design limitations in hand, sure we’d have liked to have seen more freedom for the players actions and a half decent control system would have helped.

The overly detailed and crisp textures have been downgraded, character models sport lower polygon counts, on occasion the framerate becomes extremely choppy.

The characters and objects have that distinctive cartoon look which is superb.

We could [have] really enjoyed this game however after a while it just gets too repetitive and frustrating to play for more than 30 minutes.

A fantastic tool for the PlayStation 2; it’s so simple to create some fantastic tunes. You’ll be so proud of yourself at the end, give it five minutes and you’ll be on it again making your next big hit.

One of the most enjoyable multiplayer games we have played in a very long time...[but] the lack of any decent single player mode leaves us feeling a little unhappy!

There are some innovative features and these do really add to the experience and the overall package with a highly playable multi-player mode makes Red Faction a quality PlayStation2 game.

A solid, action filled game, with lots of options, plenty of guns and Holywood Style shooting scenes.

Vietcong strays down the path between arcade shooter and tactical war simulator perfectly, resulting in a game that you’ll find hard to put down.

One can’t help but think that Namco slightly rushed the title to get it out in time for "Virtua Fighter 4," the visuals aren’t exactly eye dropping but the gameplay is fast fluid and consistent. [Import]

An awesome achievement in originality for the gaming industry. Sure it has it’s frustrating points, but it’s not “bad game” frustrating, it’s more of a “hard game” frustrating.

The game manages to blend accessibility with depth perfectly, whilst the level of immersion brought about by using the headset is at times unbelievable.

The graphics might not exactly be draw dropping but the experience is certainly entertaining.

May not have changed a lot since last year, however the small changes to a more predominant focus on combat results in an immediately enjoyable title that’s hard to resist.

It may not be the longest or more difficult game of its type, but it makes up for it by being a whole load of fun while it lasts.

An excellent sequel that manages to improve upon the original in virtually ever way. Gameplay is certainly paramount and in this area Maximo creates a maddeningly addictive experience, which you’ll find hard to drop if you’re brave enough to take on the challenge.

A mightily impressive action/adventure title, that features excellent presentation to draw the player in and strong game fundamentals to ensure frustration remains at a low.

Having sat down for 12 hours solid to play through the game in one sitting it would be hypocritical to criticise the game too harshly, it certainly has that Lionhead charm by the bucketload and manages to immerse the player in the world of Black & White effectively.

We personally would have liked to have seen a little more thought and attention paid to the concept of Vampires instead of relying on RPG decrees.

Repetitive, yet strangely addictive, The Sims 2 has a style that furthers the original in every way. Graphically and audibly, the game stands out and the unique gameplay means that it really is a genre defining title.

It’s the atrocious voice-acting that provides the most enjoyment, which sounds as though everybody was put through English elocution lessons firstly or had a role in 'Just William'.

From the story angle alone Hitman: Contracts is a worthy addition to the series, and will particularly entertain fans of the franchise who’ve played both the predecessors. That said it’s certainly time for some innovation.

From the story angle alone Hitman: Contracts is a worthy addition to the series, and will particularly entertain fans of the franchise who’ve played both the predecessors. That said it’s certainly time for some innovation.

The eeriness of the environments, even your room feels dingy, is captured brilliantly, and the tunnel effect is awesome.

It is really hard to make critical comments about Singles but we really hope this is the first step in what could be a huge franchise. The annoying aspect of one character talking to the back of the others’ head niggles a bit but many partners will know that feeling.

Offers a refreshing and immersive experience, although personally we’d like to have seen a little more focus on the action side of things.

A fitting tribute to the popular trilogy, granting fans everything they could hope for.

An epic game that captures the spirit of the films excellently. Fans of RPG's will enjoy the experience, whilst those who love the subject material will take delight in the smaller details and back-story progression that the game offers.

Offers, in terms of management and tactical depth, an intuitive feel without guiding the player but some could easily say it is devoid of being really inspiring, although we would give this our thumbs up for being straight to the point, unpretentious and offering what it promises - a strat game with substance!

Thankfully the gameplay shines a light even if the rather conventional plotline and overall game suffer from a feeling of ‘been there – seen that’.

This is a game will appeal to FPS fans, and whilst it isn't genre defining, this should be the start of a successful franchise for Sony.

The challenges offered in terms of beating your opponents were well tapered; the more you play the better you get and winning some dosh and opening the sub games, which were equally enjoyable, really topped the experience.

Superb grapics, although some may call them minimalistic, an easy to use interface and fleshed out time line/period mark this down as a genre leader for those with an acquired taste.

Although there’s no denying that Western fans will appreciate the experience more then others, the truth is that the level of style, inspired design and gritty atmosphere will likely please those looking for a good, straightforward action romp.

That said it creates a tense and chilling experience like no other videogame we’ve played, which certainly provides the main allure for the game.

At times claustrophobic, with intensely quiet and loud moments, this is a game that fans of the series will welcome.

The new heist gameplay and co-operative sequences stand out in particular, and have been implemented with a level of execution that befits Sucker Punch.

An unusual experience, an action title packed with clever touches, depth and plenty of variety.

Spartan is extraordinary from the perspective of any old warhorse of a strategy player. It has graphical polish, longevity and some well crafted ideas that other developers should take note of!

Guild Wars represents a continued refinement of the staple concepts that the genre is built around; it may not shake the apple-tree, but the experience does feel refreshingly different to other games in the genre.

Rockstar have done exactly what you’d expect them do: break down the movie into it’s core elements, expand upon the origin story, add a range of side-missions that add an extra incentive to progress through the narrative, get the visual and audio ambience of the film, and throw in that special Rockstar polish.

Its identical nature to "Jak 2" may leave a nasty taste in the mouth, especially given that this is the send-off to the comical pair.

Without doubt extremely enjoyable for fans, simply because controlling Spider-Man has never been executed so well. There are problems with the main game, there’s problems with its presentation; however we still find ourselves loading up the game just to swing around New York again.

A game that should just ages (excuse the pun.) At its core the game is a standard RTS title, but Mad Doc has added so many unique features to it that EE2 certainly stands out amongst the crowd.

Strikes a near-perfect balance and is likely to appeal both to fans of the genre and those fixated with the source material – perhaps the first time we’ve been able to say that about a videogame adaptation of Warhammer.

A definite attempt at evolving the MMO genre after a decade of gameplay clones and the unmitigated success of WoW in the last three years, Tabula Rasa feels like the baby steps towards the next stage. It doesn't have the same 'wow' factor of Blizzard's mighty MMO, but it's a pretty solid foundation from which Destination Games (and Richard Garriott) can build upon.

The end result comes across as desperately trying to be edgy and blatantly falls short of the mark, resulting in a somewhat hammy experience with characters that you fail to bond with.

Bizarrely it’s not any aspect of the game that lets the experience down but that over style – we simply don’t like the mature nature of the game compared to the delights of its predecessor. The end result comes across as desperately trying to be edgy and blatantly falls short of the mark.

The fact that you are left trying to finish off each level just to see what happens next as the conspiracy unravels is a testament to the game’s producers.

Yet another fine pool simulator from Maclean; however how many of these do we need, and isn't popping down the pub always more fun???

A dark mix of revealing narrative and gun-toting, sword-swinging, demon slaying action that works well with a result that's certainly satisfying.

Undeniably hard to get into, Kingdom Hearts II is very much a sequel and does lean heavily on knowing the storyline and the cast of characters.

BLACK's biggest misgiving is the fact it's over so quickly. 8 missions simply isn't enough and leaves you desperate for more, and probably unlikely to go back unless you're the biggest fan or to show off to your mates.