Fire Emblem: Awakening is one of those games to which I couldn't help but become addicted. Even as someone that has a difficult time with strategy games, I was able to see just how brilliant this game is.

I would also love to see them bring back more of the unique puzzle designs featured in past games, but as a starting point, Tomb Raider is easily one of my favorite games of the year so far, and one I think deserves to be experienced by everyone. If you have a love for the series or third-person adventure games, this is a must play. Lara is back and better than ever.

This is easily my vote for best downloadable game of the year.

With all of its improvements FIFA Soccer 09 is by far the most impressive upgrade to any sports title this year. If you are even remotely a fan of the sport FIFA 09 is a must-buy.

With all of its improvements FIFA Soccer 09 is by far the most impressive upgrade to any sports title this year. If you are even remotely a fan of the sport FIFA 09 is a must-buy.

Metallica songs just seem to lend themselves to this type of game. The note charts are a blast and the presentation is top-notch.

Metallica songs just seem to lend themselves to this type of game. The note charts are a blast and the presentation is top-notch.

An interesting conundrum. For what it is it is flawless. The representation of the famous foursome is impeccable and dripping with fan service. The selection of songs is disappointing, but with future DLC you will likely be able to enjoy all of your favorite tunes for a price. Beatles fans need not even hesitate; just buy the game.

An interesting conundrum. For what it is it is flawless. The representation of the famous foursome is impeccable and dripping with fan service. The selection of songs is disappointing, but with future DLC you will likely be able to enjoy all of your favorite tunes for a price. Beatles fans need not even hesitate; just buy the game.

Like nothing else I have played.

Dead or Alive 5 has been a long time coming, but I definitely feel it was worth it. Fans of the series are likely to be satisfied with the amount of content within. The new characters are great, the guest characters are fun and the new mechanics create a new way to play without sacrificing familiarity. This is a supremely polished title outside of the questionable online portion. Hopefully, they can clean that up shortly after launch and continue supporting it with future costume and stage DLC. This game has legs if things come together, and being a fan as long as I have I can say, it feels good to be back.

While the length and somewhat child like appearance may throw some gamers off I simply cannot recommend this game enough.

With the gripping story, the chaotic gameplay and brilliant graphics, it is a game that stands out among the best games on the system.

With the addition of true online play, content download, and some creative touch screen use this is certainly one of the better games available right now for Nintendo’s handheld wonder.

A continuation of an intriguing storyline, retaining all that made the first game great while adding changes to gameplay for newness and challenge.

An immaculate piece of software (and hardware) that should at least be experienced by everyone, especially people who love playing guitar.

It is easily the most complete, innovative, and accessible wrestling game since Aki’s incredible "No Mercy."

The pure adrenaline rush that you get from any level in this game is amazing, the mission structure actually keeps you entertained, and the presentation and top-notch AI really draw the player into the game world.

Street Fighter Alpha Max 3 isn’t going to win any awards for innovation, but what it will do is bring back some great memories and remind gamers that it isn’t all about bump mapping and resolutions anymore.

The controls are damn near flawless, the visuals are stunning, and the multi-player will have you coming back for months on end. If you only buy one PSP game this year, make sure it contains Gabe Logan and company; I guarantee you will not be disappointed.

It proves that a simple style that we once loved and cherished can still be pulled off in today’s world of flashy visuals and 80-hour game time. The level design is fantastic, the music is nostalgic and the sheer joy I get while playing this game is indescribable.

Definitely give Powered Up a chance, even if you have never been a fan of the series I guarantee you will find plenty to love in this game.

With over sixty playable characters, kreate-a-fighter, and all the mini-games packed in you get more than your money’s worth. MK fans will drool with delight seeing some of their favorite fighters from every game packed into one arena.

The best part about the engine is that unlike Ghost Recon, which toned down the graphics in multiplayer, this game does not. You get the same beautiful graphics in multiplayer as you do in single player.

Combat seemed flawless; the puzzle element, while at times unnecessarily misleading and therefore frustrating, was even more rewarding because of the joy of discovery.

Hitman: Blood Money accomplishes what it set out to do, improve on an already successful game formula with minor improvements that fans have been asking for. Both seasoned veterans and new comers to the series will take well to this game that tackles the world of contract killing, with a sadistic smile.

The lack of any online component is a heartbreaker, but one that can be overlooked if you truly enjoy the deep combat to be found within. The Quest Mode will keep you enthralled for hours on end, but not being able to put your custom fighter up against your buddies via memory card will hurt this game’s longevity.

Treyarch has done an amazing job with this game and has quite possibly constructed one of the best online experiences currently available anywhere.

Treyarch has done an amazing job with this game and has quite possibly constructed on of the best online experiences currently available anywhere.

The game will keep you playing for months to come with its massive online component and solid single-player experience.

Easily one of the best handheld games of the year and quite possibly the best Castlevania portable title yet.

Exactly what you would expect from the series. The fast paced action is still among the best available and the visuals set a new bar for shooters. PC gamers may balk at the lack of features out of the box, but PS3 owners looking for a great online shooter will have a hard time finding a better option this winter.

It completely changes the way an entire genre is played. Though the game has its share of problems it succeeds in not only becoming the Xbox 360’s best hockey game, but the systems best sports game in general.

Forza offers a fantastic sim race experience. The deep career mode, and incredible physics engine offer a one of a kind racing experience. Not to mention the replay value of a game with this level of customization.

Besides the excellent story and dialogue localization, tight controls and new gameplay elements, the art direction is top-o-the line.

The only sore spot in the game is the controls, I commend EA for doing a wonderful job, but because of how fast paced C&C can be you will have to wrestle with them for a little while until you can get them all down.

This is the RPG that fans have been waiting for! If you love the Final Fantasy brand, but don’t own a Playstation system then this one is for you.

GRAW 2 is the definition of a year-to-year sequel. All of the things great about the original are here and all of the issues have been addressed in some form or fashion.

Alien Hominid is the epitome of what Xbox Live Arcade should be. This is one of the finest examples of the service since its inception and I cannot recommend this title enough.

With so much focus these days on polygons and lighting effects it is nice to see that some developers can still create a gorgeous experience using traditional methods.

Easily the best flight-sim available on next-gen systems, not to mention the best the series has ever had to offer. Picture perfect controls and lush visuals make this a package that fans of the series will not want to miss.

Take my advice don’t rent this one, just go out and buy it there is enough stuff to see and do after you finish the game to keep you playing for a long time afterwards.

Take my advice don’t rent this one, just go out and buy it there is enough stuff to see and do after you finish the game to keep you playing for a long time afterwards.

HD Remix is a superb edition of a timeless game complete with nearly flawless online gameplay.

HD Remix is a superb edition of a timeless game complete with nearly flawless online gameplay.

The learning curve is not very steep, and newcomers to the series shouldn’t have any problems grasping the gameplay, especially if they listen to Anna.

A very solid game, with some excellent features, and a badass main character. For your hard earned sixty bucks you can't ask for a bigger package, two full games and multiplayer. I just hope that the sales from this game inspires them to complete The Chronicles of Riddick movie trilogy, because after seeing another side of this character in these games you will want to see more of him.

A very solid game, with some excellent features, and a badass main character. For your hard earned sixty bucks you can't ask for a bigger package, two full games and multiplayer. I just hope that the sales from this game inspires them to complete The Chronicles of Riddick movie trilogy, because after seeing another side of this character in these games you will want to see more of him.

Fighting in Naruto: RoaN is such an important part of the game play that it has been given its own online modes.

The game is one of the best Splinter Cells I have ever played, and I feel that Ubisoft has really made a solid game.

As a freshman effort in an established franchise Neversoft has done just about everything perfectly. The game feels like Guitar Hero with just enough new spice to make it feel fresh at the same time. The track list is absolutely amazing and the addition of online and co-op career are much welcome additions.

Much of the changes in Civ Rev are of the give and take variety ultimately streamlining gameplay with little sacrifice.

Much of the changes in Civ Rev are of the give and take variety ultimately streamlining gameplay with little sacrifice.

You'll never feel more like a badass and you'll never have a bigger smile on your face.

You'll never feel more like a badass and you'll never have a bigger smile on your face.

You'll never feel more like a badass and you'll never have a bigger smile on your face.

It has enough new content to appeal to owners of HoD, and enough depth to keep even the most skilled SRPG player busy for weeks.

This game has single-handedly stolen my soul since it arrived at my doorstep and I find myself needing to level up once a night, much like my wife and her World of Warcraft addiction.

This game has single-handedly stolen my soul since it arrived at my doorstep and I find myself needing to level up once a night, much like my wife and her World of Warcraft addiction.

The side missions may be repetitive, but the story is interesting, the characters are great, and the atmosphere is encompassing. Brütal Legend is definitely one of the better games I have played this year, and I look forward to seeing what the guys at Double Fine come up with next.

The side missions may be repetitive, but the story is interesting, the characters are great, and the atmosphere is encompassing. Brütal Legend is definitely one of the better games I have played this year, and I look forward to seeing what the guys at Double Fine come up with next.

In closing, Tales of Vesperia is a must buy for fans of the series, and a Must Try for those new to the series, or new to the genre. Vesperia is, what I hope, the tip of the iceberg for next gen capabilities as the series continues.

Unconventional and beautiful, Valkyria Chronicles delivers a game that is both deep and whimsical.

A remarkably spare looking spatial puzzle game, Echochrome delivers challenging gameplay and innovation. As a truly unique experience, Echochrome is hard not to recommend. A dash of Lemmings with a whole lot of M.C. Escher, I think the latter would be proud.

Perhaps the best part of the new Legacy mode is the sheer volume of stat tracking.

Perhaps the best part of the new Legacy mode is the sheer volume of stat tracking.

The harder boss fights, longer levels, destructible environments, and the on-foot levels add to the already amazingly fun to play and, in my opinion, one of the best XBLA games making it a must buy if you were a fan of the original and have some points to spare.

Guitar Hero World Tour manages to do a lot of things very well, but the problem arises when you realize that with so many options it is hard for one of them to stand out. The song list is excellent, but suffers now because of not being backward compatible with previous games. The music studio is an excellent first effort, but hurts from sound quality and complexity.

Guitar Hero World Tour manages to do a lot of things very well, but the problem arises when you realize that with so many options it is hard for one of them to stand out. The song list is excellent, but suffers now because of not being backward compatible with previous games. The music studio is an excellent first effort, but hurts from sound quality and complexity.

Resistance 2 is an excellent game with fantastic art direction, but there is no longer that special hint of something greater. Without that golden touch, Resistance 2 plays like an accomplished shooter in which you progress through a straightforward campaign with fellow grunting tough guys in a battle against an impossible foe.

Overall, this game is a dream come true for an old school, 8 bit gamer like myself. From the difficulty level, to the nostalgic graphics and sound, it's everything I could want from a new Mega Man title.

A great game for the handheld and can satisfy any hardcore gamers' craving for something more than cooking games and language teachers on their DS.

Bayonetta is the kind of game that makes me appreciate why I love videogames. It really defines a time when things were not taken too seriously and the focus was more on style and gameplay than anything else.

Knights in the Nightmare is a miraculous achievement in game design, and one hell of an RPG experience.

The game has been honed to near perfection since its inception on the next generation consoles, and this new version is by far the best entry yet.

There are enough improvements to keep returning players intrigued for months, and newcomers will really have a blast with the Dynamic Skill and tutorial options.

Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10 on the Wii breathes new life into the franchise. Everybody golf clap, Tiburon has created a very robust, non-boring golf game where sim meets sport in a scalable experience. WiiMotionPlus brings unparalleled immersion to a game brimming with content, and this Wii title earns its place among the greats as the Tiger game golf fans have to own.

If you prefer to play solo like in WoW, or WAR, then this is not going to be the game for you. But if you enjoy PVP, and grouping up with a team to take down another team then this game is meant for you. But be warned, it is very easy to lose track of time in this game as the universe is so big you will quickly find yourself saying "Just one more planet to explore…then I'll go to bed".

Mevo and the Grooveriders is a fantastic little game, it has so much charm to it, and a pretty original gameplay idea that works, that you're going to find yourself having fun playing regardless if you're a FPS veteran or a boyfriend/girlfriend who got suckered into trying it in the hopes of getting you a gaming addiction.

Space Invaders Extreme is a great reboot for fans of the old version, and a great place for new players to experience the classic gameplay.

Raiden Fighters Aces is a shooter fans dream come true. It packs all three Raiden Fighters games in one disc and offers three different game modes for each title. Throw in a training mode and a ton of options and you get one incredible gaming experience.

NHL 10 is the epitome of hockey games. Granted the changes are not as revolutionary as last year's game. What is here is the best experience a fan of the sport could ask for.

NHL 10 is the epitome of hockey games. Granted the changes are not as revolutionary as last year's game. What is here is the best experience a fan of the sport could ask for.

Definitely the best of the series, and easily the most streamlined of the genre. The option for importing songs is disappointing, but everything else is finally up to par with that other music game.

Definitely the best of the series, and easily the most streamlined of the genre. The option for importing songs is disappointing, but everything else is finally up to par with that other music game.

Definitely the best of the series, and easily the most streamlined of the genre. The option for importing songs is disappointing, but everything else is finally up to par with that other music game.

Wii owners should definitely rush out and snag a copy before it becomes a rarity. If you have even the smallest of interest in fighting games, this is a must-own. There simply isn’t a better fighter on the Wii and this is likely the closest we may ever get to a sequel to Marvel vs. Capcom 2.

Truly one of the most impressive years for the monstrous sports studio.

Truly one of the most impressive years for the monstrous sports studio.

Sound is a mixed bag. The soundtrack is absolutely stunning. The tempo of the music picks up at just the right time and the score is so well constructed it feels like a blockbuster movie soundtrack. The voice work on the other hand suffers as much as it succeeds.

It's not a difficult game, but with bolts, Zoni, Skill Points, holoplans, Constructo Mods, space missions, Trophies and Challenge Mode, there's an abundance of gameplay. It's a robust single player experience, and I particularly love that Insomniac has kept their signature Skill Points, with their own quirky requirements, separate from Trophies.

The game is a joy to behold.

All in all Trials HD is a fantastic addition to the XBLA library and completely unlike anything else on Live Arcade. The game offers a superb amount of content and challenging gameplay that will keep you coming back over and over again.

Dragon Age: Origins has sucked me in more than most other games this year. I find myself thinking about the game when not playing it, imagining other scenarios and different ways that situations could play out.

Dragon Age: Origins has sucked me in more than most other games this year. I find myself thinking about the game when not playing it, imagining other scenarios and different ways that situations could play out.

DiRT 2 is about as good of a sequel as you can ask for. It took everything that made the original so good and amplified it, while still managing to address all of the criticisms.

DiRT 2 is about as good of a sequel as you can ask for. It took everything that made the original so good and amplified it, while still managing to address all of the criticisms.

In my humble opinion, Disgaea 2: Dark Hero Days for the PSP is the definitive Disgaea portable experience. From the widescreen presentation to the sound and voice work, the PSP is the benchmark for Disgaea on the go.

An out in left field gem, it's a blast to play, and its odd side experiences and thrilling levels will bring back a feeling of pure fun that games use to be about.

LostWinds: Winter of the Melodias is one of the best downloadable games you will play this year. The sheer amount of detail and care poured into this title secretes from every flick of the Wii remote. The motion controls are better than most every other game on the system and the art directions is absolutely jaw-dropping at times. I cannot recommend this title enough to anyone who enjoys a solid platformer.

The episode is considerably longer than the last few. I was surprised and pleased to finish the trial and find substantial head-scratchers left to solve. As with all these adventures, there's little reason to revisit them once you've finished. That's just the nature of this particular beast, though. Digest it and spend a month waiting for the next one.

LittleBigPlanet remains one of Sony's most endearing franchises and the PSP version is definitely on par with the quality of the series.

Telltale delivers an episode that capitalizes on the story built in the first four. It's a thrilling, entertaining epitome of adventure games.

MAG is yet another fantastic addition to the PlayStation 3 library and one of the most addictive online experiences I have had in quite some time.

There is plenty here to keep you occupied for at least 20 hours if you want to max everything out. Some may be a bit disappointed in the size by comparison, but for $40 this game is twice as long as most full-priced titles.

Awakening is definitely a nice companion for those that have exhausted the original game. There is plenty here to keep you occupied for at least 20 hours if you want to max everything out. Some may be a bit disappointed in the size by comparison, but for $40 this game is twice as long as most full-priced titles.

The new content makes the game feel fresh once again, and the size and scope are absolutely amazing when you consider this is a download-only expansion. It is sad that this may in fact be the final DLC for the game, but if it is, what an incredible way to go out.

The new content makes the game feel fresh once again, and the size and scope are absolutely amazing when you consider this is a download-only expansion. It is sad that this may in fact be the final DLC for the game, but if it is, what an incredible way to go out.

The game is one of the hardest in the series, the bosses are still awesome and the old-school challenges will keep you pulling your hair out for months.

The game is one of the hardest in the series, the bosses are still awesome and the old-school challenges will keep you pulling your hair out for months.

The game is one of the hardest in the series, the bosses are still awesome and the old-school challenges will keep you pulling your hair out for months.

ModNation Racers is truly a work of art on so many levels. The creation tools are a snap to use, the controls really let you have fun instead of having to wrestle with them and there is simply so much packed onto this disc it is hard not to recommend it.

You will be surprised at just how deep the combat can be, not to mention how addicting it is to get into a good 16-player skirmish over Xbox Live.

Sin and Punishment: Star Successor is a nice follow-up to the cult classic from the N64 days. If you are an old-school Treasure fan you may be turned off by some of the casual changes to the core experience, but it still retains that classic feel.

Overall, if you own a DS and have ever played or are interested in a JRPG, you need to own this game.

If you loved the original there is enough here to replace your copy of the first game, and if you passed the first time around there has never been a better time to dive in.

If you loved the original there is enough here to replace your copy of the first game, and if you passed the first time around there has never been a better time to dive in.

Madden NFL 11 is a must own for all football fans, and now it is even more accessible to the masses.

Madden NFL 11 is a must own for all football fans, and now it is even more accessible to the masses.

All in all, Cladun is a fantastic game that will become quite addicting. The game is perfect for pick-up-and-play gamers.

The sheer amount of polish in NHL 11 is staggering.

The sheer amount of polish in NHL 11 is staggering.

Unlike the iPad/iPhone version, the game offers everything the PC version does, and then some. So along with all the mini games, the Zen garden and the survival modes you also get local co-op and Vs modes, which give it added value.

Comic Jumper is definitely the game that should put Twisted Pixel on the map. Their first two efforts were tremendous games, but nothing compared to what they have crafted with this masterpiece. I literally could not stop playing the first time I booted up the game, and I talked to every single NPC just to experience all of the hilarious dialogue.

Fast, frantic and fun, FIFA 11 is a master-class in how to make a sports game. Almost perfect in every aspect, it is difficult to see how EA will improve on it for FIFA 12.

Fast, frantic and fun, FIFA 11 is a master-class in how to make a sports game. Almost perfect in every aspect, it is difficult to see how EA will improve on it for FIFA 12.

When it's all said and done, Castlevania is one that will go down as one of the better Castlevania games.

When it's all said and done, Castlevania is one that will go down as one of the better Castlevania games.

Super Meat Boy is a fantastic addition to the XBLA library and one of the most addictive games I have played all year.

Games like Costume Quest are a breath of fresh air in a sea of FPS's and hardcore RPG's. I welcome any more games like this.

Games like Costume Quest are a breath of fresh air in a sea of FPS's and hardcore RPG's. I welcome any more games like this.

GoldenEye 007 is a wonderful re-imagining of a classic game that some have held onto for far too long.

This is how I remember the series when it was in its prime, and it feels good to get back to the core of enjoyment.

This is how I remember the series when it was in its prime, and it feels good to get back to the core of enjoyment.

Pinball FX 2 is one of the best impulse games on the market. It is great for twenty minute sessions or two hour marathons. If you are a fan of pinball in general, you need to download this impressive collection.

A great little sequel to an amazing franchise.

The sheer amount of content and improvements more than warrants the price tag and you would be crazy to pass up this delightful package.

For an indie title, ARES is really impressive. For a full on downloadable title, this is impressive. ARES does so many things right, it's hard not to want more.

Mass Effect still proves that it is one of the best game series this console generation. The story, characters, game play, and overall presentation are one of pure quality.

Fans of classic 2D games, or the original DKC games, owe it to themselves to pick up this amazing return to the franchise. The difficulty is the one area that may throw some gamers for a loop, but with the ability to let the game play itself it becomes a non-issue.

Definitely an improvement over its already incredible lineage. The Champion mode is fantastic, and nearly worth the price of admission on its own. Couple that with the rock-solid gameplay and suite of great online modes, and you have a game that's fit for not only huge boxing fans, but anyone that likes to beat up on their friends a bit.

Definitely an improvement over its already incredible lineage. The Champion mode is fantastic, and nearly worth the price of admission on its own. Couple that with the rock-solid gameplay and suite of great online modes, and you have a game that's fit for not only huge boxing fans, but anyone that likes to beat up on their friends a bit.

The only drawbacks to GUN are the short story mode; the main campaign can be completed in less than six hours, and the extremely frustrating final boss.

With over sixty playable characters, kreate-a-fighter, and all the mini-games packed in you get more than your money's worth. MK fans will drool with delight seeing some of their favorite fighters from every game packed into one arena.

For a PSP title, the game is very competent. For a simulation baseball game, you can't really beat MLB 11 The Show.

Unequivocally the best Tiger Woods game in years. The sheer volume of great content on display here will keep gamers busy for months, and the fantastic Move support is sure to be a hit.

The level design leaves something to be desired, but with so much else going for it, it is easy to overlook. If you enjoy action games, and don't mind seeing pints of blood splashed across the screen, this game is a must have.

Despite the detour with the some of the controls, Super Street Fighter IV 3D stands as the tour-de-force for fighting games on-the-go and a must-own addition to the 3DS.

Outland is a phenomenal game that doesn't so much innovate, as much as it perfects. The polarity aspect is genius and the platforming is top-notch. Adding in co-op only sweetens the deal, making this a must-own title.

This map pack isn't just the best pack for Black Ops; it's the best pack for Call of Duty yet. With the exception of Hotel, all the MP maps are fantastic and the zombie map is the best so far. Keep up the good work Treyarch.

Easily my favorite 3DS title released to date, and reason enough to get me back to carrying the system around with me wherever I go.

There may not be a huge amount of content on offer here, but what's there is simply amazing. From the intense action to the striking visual, Galaga Legions DX doesn't sit in the shadow of Pacman CEDX, it stands tall along side it.

One area Twisted Pixel always excels is writing and humor. Their games are genuinely funny, and Ms. Splosion Man continues that trend, even if it does rely too much on female stereotypes.

NCAA Football 12 is simply loaded with content, as always, and most of what is here will seem familiar on the surface. Those that really dive into the meat of the game, though, will find so many welcome changes that it is hard not to appreciate what Tiburon has done here.

The game is fresh in a world of "me too" shooters. It may look like the average first person shooter game, but it is so much more. Effectively blending RPG elements, the stealth of Metal Gear Solid and Splinter Cell and the prey stalking of Batman: Arkham Asylum, Human Revolution is a worthy successor to the legendary series in a world where reboots often discard everything that made the original great.

Even with an exclusive license and no reason to improve their game, Tiburon and EA Sports continue to refine the best football experience ever made.

It really just manages to suck you in and deliver a good time. I love the co-op, the atmosphere and so much else that all I can think about right now is diving back into the game.

Tropico 4 may not look massively different from the previous game, but the improvements made under the hood make this game a must for anybody that loved Tropico 3, or anyone that loves management sims.

RAGE is an excellent game that combines the pedigree of id's amazing gunplay with an open-world style game that focuses on action as opposed to RPG elements.

On Fire Edition is a great game, and at only $14.99, it could be one of the best deals on PSN right now. It will make you wonder how such a simple game can be so addicting. Kitrow may be right. Maybe it is the shoes.

The game is just so original and fun to play that you would be hard-pressed to not enjoy it. If you even remotely like games like Final Fight and Streets of Rage, then Guardian Heroes should be in your collection. Don't let this classic slip into obscurity for a second time.

An incredibly robust package that will please any racing game fan. Even players not so keen on simulation owe it to themselves to check it out. There is so much content included on the disc that you could literally spend months trying to see it all. Combine that with outstanding presentation and truly spectacular handling and you have the definitive car-driving simulator.

Cave Story 3D provides the perfect blend of action and adventure that embodies the days when Jason was the kid with a mutated frog and an awesome tank and not the kid that wandered away from his Dad and got lost in a mall.

Of course, the most impressive aspect (and most addictive) is the couch multiplayer with friends. Think New Super Mario Bros., and you get the idea.

A refinement of the series that further evidences why, year after year, Activision puts it on a pedestal. If you enjoy shooters, you owe it to yourself to at least give Modern Warfare a chance. If you've been on the fence because of the die-hards, this is the year to dip your toe in the water.

If you own a 3DS, this is one game you simply cannot miss. Everything about it is so well designed and fun to play that you won't remove the cartridge for months.

If you have an iDevice and even a passing interest in turn-based or tabletop strategy gaming, there is absolutely no reason not to download Hero Academy. Robot Entertainment very well may have put a lock on iOS Game of the Year, and January isn't even over yet.

Despite the minor flaws the game contains, this is one experience that RE fans and 3DS owners simply should not miss.

There are enough improvements to both exploration and combat to appease the old school FF players while keeping the game play fresh. If you're a fan of Japanese RPG's, you'll love the game. Despite the story slowing down at times, the game is really impressive and a lot of fun to play.

An example of what every sports simulation game should be. By choosing not to be bound by how people think of the sport, Yukes managed to deliver a product that is both more realistic and enjoyable than both of the previous UFC titles. Any game that can make me a fan of its subject matter overnight is a winner in my book.

A real treat for anyone who has fond memories of the game from their youth. It looks and plays exactly like the original, and has enough fun extras to encourage multiple plays.

Naughty Dog has become the de-facto Sony developer for a reason, and this showcases some of their best work. These games still hold up well today and highlight how this forgotten genre is still one of the best in gaming. If you own a PS3, this is yet another HD collection you simply have to own.

Sure, there are some odd choices such as only including three characters, but the actual game more than makes up for these quirks. If you have ever loved the series, this is a must have.

One of those games that will shine bright when people discuss the Vita's launch lineup. It is the Geometry Wars for Sony's portable and a game that anyone who enjoys the medium needs to check out. The price is right, the content is plentiful and the gameplay is top notch.

Vita has one of its first killer apps here, and it belongs in everyone's library.

Street Fighter X Tekken is easily the best fighting game I have played since Mortal Kombat landed last year. Sure, the story mode is a little contrived, and the gem system mildly flawed for tournament play, but the sheer amount of everything else completely outweighs it.

While the game stands leagues ahead of its competition, there are some needed changes that I hope make their way into next year's version. Updated presentation, a new commentary team and some rudimentary facelifts to RTTS would go a long way towards refreshing the franchise and ensuring its continued success for years to come.

The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings is truly an immaculate experience that fans of the genre should not miss.

The game is a wonderful blend of mindbending puzzles, old school RPG combat and dungeon survival. If you're a fan of RPGs in any way, shape or form, you owe it to yourself to give this game a shot, even if it's just to see where RPGs got their start.

All in all, the first episode of The Walking Dead was a fantastic experience. Fans of a good narrative should look into this game, as well.

For a very inexpensive price, you get a polished, well made fighting game that is well worth the money for newcomers to the series and the Virtua Fighter veterans alike.

If you love pinball, no one does it better than Zen. Although the price is only $10 (800 MS points) for all four tables, that is the only way to get them. If you want just one of the four, you're out of luck, but that shouldn't be a problem, because all of these tables are awesome and each has its own special concept that will have you playing for hours and hours to try and see what they all have to offer.

In conclusion, Pokemon Conquest is an incredible game that is both easy to get into and incredibly deep at the same time. This game might not be for everyone, but those who are open minded enough to give this a shot (Pokemon fans and just RPG strategy fans alike) will find that this game is strange, charming, and just completely awesome.

Quantum Conundrum is a great game that stretches your brain and forces you to think in different ways. It's fairly long as well, and I spent about 10 hours finishing the main game. There are goals related to time and the number of shifts needed to solve a puzzle, which adds some replay value. It's a terrific game for puzzle and platforming fans alike, and at $15 it's a great bargain.

The episode will last you around two hours, and even with the problems I had, the story, voice acting and overall tone of the game hold true throughout. Players of the first episode should not miss this one, and players that have yet to pick up the series should play this game (in order, of course). If you're looking for a great continuation of the first episode, you just found it

Deep, widely-varied strategy, deck-building and perfect online play are the highlights of this wonderful game.

If you have a passion for action games, the Metroidvania style or just gorgeous animation in general, you need to play this game. It is definitely packed and more than worth the price of admission, and it is quite possibly my favorite XBLA game to come out this year. This is what Summer of Arcade was designed for.

Madden NFL 13 is a fantastic update to the series. It feels like a complete overhaul. Sure, some of the new things will need tweaking in the years to come, but this is a great step in the right direction.

In the end, CS:GO is CS. There's something to be said for a game that knows what it is and executes that idea well. Between the refined quality of classic CS, and the new tweaks and modes, there is plenty here to warrant a $15 price tag whether you have played CS before or not. The potential value is absurd given the historic and expected persistence of the community. CS:GO is hard, hardcore, and still a blast to play.

I can't recommend this game enough. I have loved the direction Klei has taken with their games so far. Shank was a little too much for me, even though it was such a great game. Mark of the Ninja seems to evidence refinement and growth for the studio. It has been a long time since I enjoyed a stealth game this much. The balance between risk and reward is perfectly balanced, and if you enjoy the genre, this is a must own.

Tekken Tag Tournament 2 is definitely a solid package. The robust cast of fighters, ample amount of stages and sheer plethora of content make it worth the price of admission alone. Factor in the depth of the fighting and promised DLC, and you have a game that could occupy you for a long, long time.

LittleBigPlanet Vita is a must own title for the platform. The series feels right at home on a handheld, and the new implementations made for this version are outstanding.

Dishonored is truly a gem in a field of sequels and "me-too" titles flooding the market. It is a new IP developed with a lot of the conventions of game design in mind. From the beginning the game draws you into the world and never lets you go.

Forza Horizon was definitely a great surprise. Not only does it carry the Forza name, it carries the quality, just in a different form.

Fans of Trials need to get this pack, especially if, like me you haven't touched the game in a while due to the massive onslaught of quality software this year. Trials Evolution remains one of the best downloadable packages on XBLA, and one of the feature titles for the service. I cannot recommend the value you get from Red Lynx enough.

I would have to say I'm very impressed with the first piece of DLC Borderlands 2 has to offer. It constantly keeps you moving from one area to the next, and nothing ever gets monotonous.

For the most part, version 2 is as good as version 1.

Mass Effect 3 on Wii U is a tough sell. The game on its own is fantastic. The shooting is solid, the narrative is great and the characters are memorable, but you are simply missing so much of the experience by not having played the previous two. In the case that you have played them on other consoles, there is no incentive to lose your save and progress to migrate to Wii U.

Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed may have the most unfortunate name in gaming's recent history, but that doesn't stop it from being truly fantastic. This is easily my favorite kart racer of the generation, slightly outdoing its predecessor in both form, and sheer content. Sega fans will love it. Kart racing fans will have a blast, and gamers in general should really appreciate the love poured into this game. The price is right, the game is fun and anyone who enjoys a good time should definitely check out this amazing racer.

In conclusion, Tekken Tag Tournament 2 for the Wii U is a fantastic fighting game, and a must buy for the new Nintendo system. This game has so much to offer, and it adds a hard-core competitive element to Nintendo gamers that have been lacking for a long time.

Monolith has done a great job making a MOBA game work very well with a controller. Will I say after putting the time I have into GoME have I become good at MOBA games? No. Will I say I had a fun time with the fast game play, deep customization and online play? Absolutely. MOBA players should look into this game, and interested in the genre should absolutely check Guardians of Middle-Earth out. It is well worth the $15 pricetag.

There is plenty of content for the money, and it's different enough to allow even those with over 100 hours in Skyrim to feel refreshed. It's easily the best piece of Skyrim expansion content yet, and well worthy of $20.

Sure, the combat can be argued all day long by purists of the series, but if that is your hang up, you are denying yourself an amazing game to play. Fans of the genre, series and games in general definitely need to see what Ninja Theory has achieved here. It's easily an early contender for my favorite games of the year.

Heroes and Castles is a phenomenal addition to any gamer’s iOS library. For the $1.99 asking price, you get a ton of content and a really unique experience.

There is a lot going for Etrian Odyssey IV. It is both an achievement in retro gaming while also an evolution to the series as a whole. For those unafraid of an intense RPG challenge, a rewarding experience awaits you.

It would be easy for Sony to rest on their laurels with this franchise, especially considering the downward spiral (and expiring contract) of their only competitor. Instead, they’ve continued to take pride in making sure that The Show is always at the top of its game.

Boss fights are fun and varied, and the excellent checkpointing system kept the big encounters from becoming frustrating. Castlevania fans and 3DS owners alike will find a lot to enjoy here.

The content packed into this cart is impressive. The story mode is deep, the fighting is tight and the visuals are gorgeous. The game also packs enough new material to make it worth checking out as a double dip for fans.