| |
 River
City Soccer Hooligans (DS)
Players who grew up during the 8-bit era will be happy to learn that a new
version of the classic River City franchise has arrived on the Nintendo
DS. This isn't an emulated or slightly enhanced version of those old
titles, but an entirely new game based on the characters and settings from
the classic series. It's an entertaining comic-sports title that gives you
the chance to play with some cool power-ups that add to the fun. It's
humorous take makes it a refreshingly fun and accessible title that should
please new and veteran players with its retro-graphics and action-oriented
arcade play style. While it's not going to win any awards, River City
Soccer Hooligans is an entertaining diversion that offers a solid mix of
new and classic gameplay elements. |
 Deathsmiles
(Xbox 360)
Gamers looking for a classic shooter in the mold of Donpachi or Cotton
will probably want to check out Deathsmiles. It comes from legendary shmup
maestros Cave and has released on Xbox 360. Far from a mere arcade-port,
this release includes several enhanced versions that include tweaked
gameplay, improved graphics and other additional features. It's play
mechanics are fairly standard, but there are a few twists that keep things
interesting. There's several levels of difficulty as well, so players of
different abilities can join in the fun. Look inside and discover why
Deathsmiles is an entertaining and satisfying release that fans of the
classic shooter won't want to miss. |
|
 Prince
of Persia: The Forgotten Sands (Playstation 3)
Ubisoft's latest edition in the long-running Prince of Persia franchise,
The Forgotten Sands takes place between the legendary Sands of Time and
Warrior Within titles. It offers the usual mix of strategic puzzles and
fighting elements along with a few new moves. Players who remember the
original games will be happy to learn that the tone and style of those
titles have returned with lush environments and elaborate puzzles. There's
a few surprises in store this time around, such as the ability to freeze
water and an elaborate character upgrade system, but this is a safe title,
offering a familiar yet satisfying experience that delivers a solid mix of
action and strategy.
|
|
 ModNation
Racers (Playstation 3)
Taking a page from the successful Little Big Planet, Sony's new
kart-driving title ModNation Racers gives players a fairly interesting
sandbox to play with. The game features a fairly decent set of standard
racing tracks and karts and a good single-player career mode. However, the
game goes further than this and it allows players to create and use their
own modded cars on custom tracks. The creation tools are easy to use and
accessible and once created and saved, these can be shared with other
players online with an extensive community as well. This gives Mod Nation
plenty of replay value, which makes for an appealing title. Its solid
gameplay mechanics are also finely produced, making this an entertaining
game for racing fans.
|
 Pure
Futbol (Playstation 3)
Ubisoft's attempt at bringing action/arcade style soccer to current
platforms has arrived in the form of Pure Futbol. This is a streamlined
sports title that throws out many of the complex rules in favor of a
simpler five-on-five game. There's no off-sides rule to worry about and
refs only come out in the most egregious fouls. This makes for a
faster-paced soccer game that flows very quickly through each match.
Additional special moves, such as Pure shots make the game even more
exciting. It's a bit simplistic in its controls, too but this makes for a
more accessible game. While it probably won't appeal to purists, Pure
Futbol is a fun, accessible title that delivers an entertaining
experience.
|
|
 Blur
(Playstation 3)
Activision and Bizarre Creations have teamed up to
create the long-awaited action racing title Blur. The neon-infused driving
game takes players on a wild ride with power-ups, projectiles and massive
speed tied together with bonus features and a progressive rewards system
that allows players to unlock additional content. The action is frenetic
and intense with players trying to knock others off the course while also
trying to gain as many fans and light points as possible. Blur is a bit
harder than it initially seems, but the game rewards skilled players with
some viscerally exciting racing action. Blur is definitely in the mold of
other PS3 action racers like Burnout: Paradise and Split Second, so read
on and find out how it stacks up to those titles.
|
 Split
Second (Playstation 3)
Split Second is an action racer from Disney Interactive that brings an
explosive aspect to its adrenaline fueled contests. Instead of merely
trying to knock opponents off the track, you knock the track itself onto
your opponents. This is done by triggering Power Plays that cause massive
explosions, hurling debris onto the track. There's tons of vehicles to
choose from, and these offer different driving styles, but all are tuned
for arcade action. Its solo game is loads of fun, but the online mode is
also solid with support for up to 8 players. Add in tons of unlockable
content and bonus features and you get a solid game that brings ferocious
arcade racing action. |
 Super
Street Fighter IV (Playstation 3)
Last year's Street Fighter IV marked Capcom's long-awaited
resurgence into the fighting genre, delivering the solid gameplay players
have come to expect from the series along with a brilliant HD makeover
combining hand-drawn artistic visuals with high-def polygons. Now, the
company has released a new update, Super Street Fighter IV which adds
copious amounts of new content in the form of ten new playable characters,
tweaked the original roster to add balance while adding new online modes
to make for a much deeper and more rewarding title. There's bound to be
some complaints from those who purchased the original but, SSFIV offers
more than enough new content to justify its purchase.
|
 FIFA
World Cup 2010 (Playstation 3)
EA gives players a chance to experience the quadrennial international
soccer tournament in FIFA World Cup 2010 South Africa, superb recreation
of the excitement surrounding the sporting event. The game features
numerous modes of play that allow you to go from the qualifying rounds to
the finals using your favorite national teams, which adds to the
excitement. On the field, the gameplay is intuitive and precise, allowing
you to maneuver your players, change tactics on the fly and score some
incredible goals. The controls are intuitive and effective, making for an
exciting and challenging title. It performs very much as expected but,
EA's latest soccer title is a solid performer that delivers a great
simulation of the sporting spectacle.
|
 Moto
GP 09/10 (Playstation 3)
Capcom's Moto GP 09/10 for the PS3 delivers a fairly good simulation-style
racing title for the platform. It allows you to not only speed along the
usual licensed tracks with manufacturer bikes, but goes a bit deeper into
the realities of the racing world with sponsors, team management and
customization factors which can play a huge role in the outcome of the
race. This deep style of play isn't for everyone and some players will
find this approach intimidating. However, those with the patience and
discipline will find an enormous amount of satisfaction in completing and
winning races. Look inside and discover how Moto GP's excellent visuals
and deep gameplay make is an appealing title that offers a surprising
amount of longevity.
|
 BlazBlue Portable
(PSP)
Bringing the exhilarating fighting game franchise to the PSP, developer
Arc Systemworks has created a solid conversion of BlazBlue: Calamity
Trigger Portable to the handheld. The arcade game's full lineup of
fighters is present, along with their deep moves lists and its unique
'burst' system. There are a few noticeable changes, such as slightly
simplified controls and a reduced number of backgrounds but, the smooth
animation and unique design remain. Extras such as an art gallery,
unlockable character moves and a unique Legion mode add to the replay
value, making this edition of BlazBlue a solid purchase for those who
enjoy 2D fighting titles. |
 God
of War III (Playstation 3)
The final installment in the God of War
trilogy has arrived and it doesn't disappoint. Taking everything players
loved about the first two games and amplifying it exponentially, this
adventure mixes breathtaking visuals with brutal combat to create a truly
epic quest. Unapologetically violent, God of War III puts players into the
center of Kratos' battle for revenge. Intense battle sequences and massive
boss battles bring the series to a satisfying conclusion while its flow
and intensity is unrelenting and brutal. Its stunning production values
and cinematic style are quite impressive but the solid gameplay
underpinning the visuals makes for an outstanding title that truly pushes
the PS3 hardware to its limits. It goes without saying that God of War III
has been worth the wait, so look inside and discover how the game delivers
its bloody abundance.
|
 Tekken
6 (PSP)
Releasing a full-fledged fighting game
on a handheld is a risky proposition, but Namco-Bandai have delivered
another excellent release in the form of Tekken 6. Bringing the intense
action of its arcade and console versions to the PSP, this uncompromising
release features more than 40 characters in dozens of stages. The game
looks and feels quite polished and its production values are superb in
terms of dramatic stage battles and design. Multiple modes of play allow
for solo or versus play which should extend replay value substantially and
makes Tekken 6 a solid fighting title that should please PSP owners.
|
 Data
East Arcade Classics (Wii)
With more than 15 classic arcade titles included, Data East Arcade
Classics on Wii represents a tremendous value for retro gamers. The
compilation includes a mix of well-known titles such as Bad Dudes and
BurgerTime along with more obscure releases like Super Real Darwin and
Wizard Fire. The games are emulated with great attention to detail and
feel authentic and accurate down to the sound effects. Data East's output
was diverse, and this release reflects this with a wide variety of genres
represented from sports, to action and puzzle titles to name a few.
Overall, this is a very good collection that offers an excellent selection
of classic arcade titles on one disc.
|
 Metal
Slug XX (PSP)
Metal Slug XX is essentially the same game as last year's Metal Slug 7 on
the DS, the PSP edition of the game features some extra enhancements such
as downloadable content, co-op play on wifi mode and some slight visual
upgrades. The gameplay in MSXX unfolds exactly as you'd expect it to, with
the intense, frenetic action players have come to expect from the series.
With six playable characters, tons of weapons upgrades and ingenious level
design, Metal Slug XX is another solid installment in the series. One key
twist this time around is the new combat school mode, where you unlock
extras by completing mini-games. It adds tons of replay value and while
the game largely treads on familiar ground, Metal Slug XX remains an
enjoyable diversion. |
 Bioshock
2 (Playstation 3)
Bioshock 2 is the highly-anticipated sequel to one of 2007's most
impressive games. This time around, players take the role of a Big Daddy
prototype and have to rescue their bonded Little Sister from the clutches
of her deranged mother. The game builds on many of the original's most
successful elements while changing a few things around to keep things
fresh. The doomed city of Rapture remains a beautifully designed and
richly detailed world and the opportunity to submerge into its depths is a
pleasure. All this makes for another outstanding installment in the series
that goes far beyond what you'd usually expect from a sequel. |
 Mass
Effect 2 (Xbox 360)
Bioware's Mass Effect 2 builds on the successful parts from the first game
while changing elements that didn't work. It's a hybrid of role-playing
and first person action, though the latter seems to have a greater
emphasis this time around. Strong role-playing elements remain but once
you get on the ground, the action more closely resembles a combat-based
tactical shooter. The simplified controls, a cover system and additional
weapons give the battles a more conventional feel. ME2's improved visuals
give the game a much more polished look while the extensive voice-acting
allows for its engrossing and immersive plot to unfold. While it caters to
the series' hard-core devotees, its more accessible approach means that
Mass Effect 2 should appeal to a wider range of players. |
 Tatsunoko
vs. Capcom (Wii)
Playing to the strengths of its long-running versus series, Capcom has
teamed up with legendary studio Tatsunoko for an appealing anime-infused
fighting game that should please casual and hardcore gamers alike.
Featuring an impressive and varied roster of fighters, the game's
accessible controls make it easy to play. Go deeper and you'll find an
extensive array of moves and strategic aspects that gives the gameplay
plenty of depth and strategy. The challenging opponents, tons of secrets
and excellent design create solid gameplay mechanics. Its outstanding
aesthetics makes for an instantly appealing fighting game that delivers a
solid experience that should appeal to casual and serious players alike. |
 Pro
Evolution
Soccer 2010 (PSP)
Taking to the pitch in the shadow of its big console cousins, Pro
Evolution Soccer 2010 transfers to the PSP owner a solid portion of
Konami's soccer series into the palm of their hand. What's surprising is
that most of the modes, such as Master League and Become a Legend are
present in this edition. Players will also find the new UEFA license
represented in this version plus many other options available that add
plenty of depth as well. The game plays solidly, but there are some
tradeoffs such as a lack of camera modes and less polished visuals that go
with the portable version that slightly compromise the overall experience.
Still, despite these trade-offs, PES 2010 delivers a solid soccer
game making it a solid purchase for gamers who want a little football
action on the go. |
 Bayonetta
(Playstation 3)
Those looking for fast-paced action and elaborate set-pieces will find
much to enjoy in Bayonetta. Created by the same developers responsible for
the Devil May Cry series, there are many similarities between the titles,
but also significant differences. Intense gunplay is the star here with
the ability to shoot from her feet and arms making for some wild moves.
Bayonetta's controls are outstanding with a smooth feel allowing for
impressive combo moves and spectacular finishing moves. It's not a perfect
game, with some poor camera angles, annoying quick-time moves and a
somewhat disjointed plotline conspiring to make it feel less polished.
Despite these flaws, Bayonetta is a solidly entertaining title throughout
making Bayonetta an impressive experience that will thrill hardcore
gamers.
|
 Space
Invaders Extreme 2 (DS)
Space Invaders Extreme 2 for the Nintendo DS is much more than a
hyper-nostalgia trip. While it bears some superficial resemblance to the
classic game, this new updates adds so many layers as to feel almost
completely new. Its thumping techno score, raved-up backgrounds and
kinetic pacing are sure to please those gamers used to the likes of
Geometry Wars. However, the classic shoot and dodge gameplay is very much
evident and has been enhanced with bonuses, power-ups and additional modes
that mean these new features are more than window-dressing. |
 The
Laser's Overlooked games of 2009
If you only played the top ten games
this year, you'd easily find yourself disheartened by the many sequels and
celebrity workout titles on the market. It's easy to lose perspective if
you drown yourself in the avalanche of daily information and hype, but the
bottom line is that publishers and developers delivered a fairly excellent
selection of titles in a variety of genres and styles if you looked for
them. Please note that these aren't necessarily the most popular or
heavily hyped games, but they do represent the ones we'll still be playing
next year after the flashy visuals of those other 'big' titles have worn
off. There's a lot of old-school action here, but they remind us the good
old days, when you played games to have fun, enjoy yourself and most
importantly, avoid exercise at all costs. |
 Modern
Warfare 2 (Playstation 3)
Infinity Ward's latest Call of Duty installment, Modern Warfare 2 picks up
where the last one left off and delivers a state-of-the-art combat
experience. It builds on many of the successful elements of the last game,
including an intense single player storyline, intense multiplayer and
numerous additions, such as the new Spec Ops mode that brings co-op play
to the series. It's polished gameplay and slick environments back up an
immersive storyline, filled with unexpected twists and mission types that
make this feel more like an adventure title and less like the usual
generic FPS. This definitely expands the definition of traditional
shooters, so look inside and discover how Modern Warfare 2 offers epic
combat missions without losing its essential appeal.
|
 Assassin's
Creed II (Playstation 3)
Assassin's Creed II successfully builds on the first game, improving in
many key areas where it came up short. Most importantly, the repetitive
mission structure of the first game has been opened up, giving ACII a more
organic feel. Its main storyline is engaging, but side-missions add depth.
Plus, a new money system allows you to purchase additional weapons, armor
and other devices. Its combat system adds new tactics to create more
exciting battles. AC II's visuals are breathtaking as you explore its
beautifully rendered cities. The plot includes historic characters and
events to present a detailed back story with engaging characters. Finally,
some truly inspired surprises abound that make Assassin's Creed II a
consistently engaging title throughout.
|
 Pro
Evolution Soccer 2010 (Playstation 3)
Konami's long-running soccer series seems like its fallen a few steps
behind FIFA in recent years, but the developers are looking to change this
with Pro Evolution Soccer 2010. Featuring a new 360 degree movement
system, improved visuals and better AI, the title has undergone a
significant revision that improves both its look and gameplay flow.
Additional modes, such as become a legend and master league add depth, but
the smooth on-field gameplay, superb pacing and fluid matches make for a
solid game. Its excellent controls and an superb interface make this an
accessible game and one that should please hardcore soccer fans, but is
this enough to overtake its rival? Look inside and find out. |
 Tekken
6 (Playstation 3)
Namco's classic fighting franchise returns with the long-awaited Tekken 6.
This edition doesn't add too much on the gameplay front, but retains the
solid feel and tight controls the series has become known for. Its biggest
change this time around are the HD visuals, which look noticeably sharper
on the PS3 which gives the game a somewhat more polished look. This
version also delivers online play and a disappointing scenario mode. There
aren't many surprises, but the ability to play some of your favorites,
build custom characters and use them online in a new form is impressive
and makes Tekken 6 a good purchase that will please fans of the series. |
 FIFA
Soccer 10 (Playstation 3)
EA's FIFA has improved dramatically over the past few seasons, and last
year's edition was considered a high-water mark for the series. The 2010
edition does an excellent job consolidating the features that made last
year's edition great while adding a few innovations of its own. The new
360 degree dribbling system gives the game a much higher degree of
unpredictability while increasing the skill and challenge in winning
matches. New modes and improvements abound, with a deeper Virtual Pro
mode, more elaborate Management mode plus varied practice modes give it a
more comprehensive feel. FIFA 10's presentation and visuals remain superb
with realistic player models, smooth frame rates and sleek menus giving
the game a highly-polished look throughout. Join us as we hit the pitch
and find out why, with so many significant and much-appreciated
improvements in place, FIFA 10 remains at the top of its game. |
 Ratchet
& Clank Future: A Crack in Time (Playstation 3)
Since the first release on PS2, Ratchet & Clank games have delivered a
consistently entertaining and challenging series of platforming titles
that mixed challenging puzzles with massive amounts of ammo. A richly
detailed universe of characters and storylines evolved over time and made
this one of the most engaging traditional action series of the past few
years. The newest adventure builds on the successful play mechanics of the
original and adds a few new wrinkles including new sub-missions,
mini-games and time-twisting gameplay mechanics that keep things fresh.
Excellent production values give it a cinematic flair and help to deliver
a satisfying experience that will please the series' many fans. |
 Buzz
Quiz World (Playstation 3) & Press
Your Luck (Wii)
One
of the side effects of the casual gaming craze has been the arrival of
titles based on classic game shows. Two recent releases in the genre have
arrived and while they have different approaches, Buzz Quiz World on PS3
and Press Your Luck for Wii both share a sense of fun and excitement. Buzz
continues Sony’s long-running casual quiz series with new questions and
gameplay modes to keep you and your friends happy, while Press Your Luck
is a fairly faithful version of the classic 80’s game show right down to
the infamous Whammies. Look inside and see why these games will make your
console the life of the party.
|
 Borderlands (Playstation 3)
Taking players into a desolate netherworld filled with destruction,
Borderlands is a post-apocalyptic action title that mixes FPS action and
role playing elements to create a unique hybrid title that sucks you into
the action. It's quite innovative and has you alternate between quest
missions and all out battles. The single-player mode is moderately
entertaining, but playing online or over a LAN makes things even more fun.
There are a few rough spots but, this is still a solidly entertaining
title that brings a unique flair to both genres, making this an excellent
choice for action gamers.
|
 Uncharted
2: Among Thieves (Playstation 3)
Nathan Drake's first adventure was impressive but it was nothing
compared to Uncharted 2 which blows it right out of the water in every
way. It's sense of scale is breathtaking and delivers one of the most
ambitious titles seen to date on any platform. Mixing action and puzzle
levels seamlessly, the game unfolds at a frenetic pace throughout, leaving
you on the edge of your seat. The game's improved combat system allows for
easier cover and more accurate shots, while the epic cinematic sequences
are competing for your attention. An improved graphics engine delivers
nearly photo-realistic visuals, believable characters and breathtaking
environments. Uncharted 2's highly polished gameplay is absolutely amazing
at points, and its mix of breathtaking action, intense combat and
startling puzzle sequences delivers an unforgettable gaming experience.
|
 Ninja
Gaiden Sigma 2 (Playstation 3)
Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 is the definitive version of Team Ninja's classic
Ninja Gaiden II, originally released for the Xbox 360, but refined in the
PS3 update. While the basic parameters are fairly similar, the new
revision is more than a port. Several new gameplay modes, including the
viscerally thrilling team missions give the game much more content than
the original release. The gameplay has also been tweaked, with new
additions, such as impressive boss battles, giving Sigma 2 some
unpredictable twists. Graphical enhancements include a steadier frame rate
and smoother animations. These changes are substantial which this makes
Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 one of the best action titles released on the
Playstation 3 yet. |
 Gran
Turismo (PSP)
It's spent many years in development, but Gran Turismo has finally arrived
on PSP. While there are a few minor disappointments in terms of execution,
it has largely been worth the wait. Featuring an extensive list of
vehicles to unlock, extensive track selection and several addictive
gameplay modes, there's plenty to explore. It's realistic handling and
driving physics create a demanding driving experience to create
exhilarating racing action. An impressive graphics engine and smooth frame
rates throughout make for a visually robust title that lives up to the GT
legacy. Look inside as we hit the road and explain how these elements
combine to make Gran Turismo probably the most impressive PSP titles to
date. |
 Pinball
Hall of Fame: Williams Collection (Playstation 3)
You might have a strong sense of déjà vu looking at this, since this is
the third edition of this game we've reviewed. This time, the classic pin
collection comes to the PS3 with HD graphics, several new tables and not
much else. The visual upgrades are good, and make this game the best
looking yet. Several additional titles have been added from previous
versions, making a total of 13 available tables in all. Aside from this,
it's almost identical to earlier editions, with a similar interface, token
system and tournaments. So while its good for what it offers, those who
played previous versions will probably want to wait until this Williams
Collection gets a little cheaper. |
 Motorstorm:
Arctic Edge (PSP)
Even though the title has been miniaturized for PSP, Motorstorm: Arctic
Edge still delivers massive scale and epic races through a series frozen
tracks. This isn’t about realism, it’s all about arcade thrills with
massive jumps, brutal crashes and intense speed. Visually, the game is
impressive by PSP standards, since it runs at a smooth frame rate
throughout and includes the series’ trademark crash animations.
Motorstorm’s standard races are complimented by battle modes, time
attack sections and other challenges. These elements combine to make for a
surprisingly intense handheld racing experience that delivers thrilling
combat driving.
|
 Qubed
(Xbox 360)
Combining three of Q? Entertainment's seminal Xbox releases in a single,
low-priced package, Qubed offers a distinctly playable gaming experience
most players won't want to miss. The package includes Rez HD, Every Extend
Extra Extreme and Lumines Live. Each of the three games delivers an
intense, surreal cybernetic experience that mixes beautiful CGI graphics,
intense techno music and synchs them together to create memorable titles
that can't be easily classified or pigeonholed. Those players who were
unfortunate enough to have missed these games in their original release
can now have access to all of them in a low-priced package. |
 Need
for Speed: Shift (Playstation 3)
EA's long-running Need for Speed series takes another detour with the
release of Shift. The latest edition drops the underground vibe of the
last few years and replaces it with a more simulation-oriented approach.
There are still vestiges of the old games with an impressive array of
high-end sports cars available to race and some drift competitions.
However, the main thrust this time around seems to be realism and
authenticity. A sophisticated racing engine delivers high-octane visuals
with an impressive cockpit viewpoint that puts you right into the action.
The biggest question is whether NFS: Shift's new approach brings new
thrills to the genre or if it ends up as another me-too racer. |
 Dirt
2 (Playstation 3)
Gamers looking for exciting,
visceral off-road racing action should definitely check out Dirt 2, a
solid and challenging racer that showcases excellent visuals. The appeal
is more than skin-deep as excellent physics, superlative handling and,
sophisticated AI make for some intense and challenging races that will
keep players on the edge of their seats throughout. A deep tour mode
allows you to unlock plenty of extra content, additional vehicles and race
locations quickly and effectively. Look inside and discover why Dirt 2's
slick production values, deep gameplay and addictive modes make for an
excellent package that offers another solid entry into the racing genre. |
 Raiden
IV (Xbox 360)
With Raiden Fighters Aces already out, this release should serve as a
nice, more modern bookend for those players looking for a follow-up. Those
who enjoy classic 'shmups will find much to enjoy in the release of Raiden
IV on Xbox 360. It doesn't stray too far from the classic arcade formula,
but its smoother, HD-ready visuals enhance the already solid play
mechanics. Additional modes such as a score attack, online leader boards
and scaling screen dimensions plus exclusive 360 stages make this an
excellent shooter that delivers the intense bullet frenzy fans of the
series have come to expect. |
 The
Beatles: Rock Band (Playstation 3)
There's been much anticipation regarding this melding of the legendary
Beatles catalog with the rhythm action genre. Beatles fans need not worry,
as the band's history and legacy is treated with respect and class. The
game's first-rate production values, solid mechanics and excellent visuals
allow the timeless music to occupy center stage. It doesn't change too
much about the Rock Band formula, the addition of harmonizing vocals adds
a new dimension to co-operative play. The biggest issue The Beatles might
face is time. While there might be somewhat of a generation gap between
the 60's and today's gamers, The Beatles: Rock Band proves the fab four's
timeless music remains as vibrant, refreshing and, appealing as ever. |
 Soul
Calibur: Broken Destiny (PSP)
Namco has finally brought its long-running
fighting series to the PSP with the release of Soul Calibur: Broken
Destiny and the results are generally impressive. Most of the series'
visual flourish and smooth animation has been successfully translated to
the handheld as has its deep gameplay, extensive moves lists and balanced
combat. Extras consist of a lengthy quest mode and an extensive series of
challenging Trial mini-games. These deliver quite a bit of challenge,
while an extensive selection of characters brings plent of variety. Its
smooth gameplay mechanics have been translated nicely to the handheld,
making this an excellent purchase for PSP owners. |
 Batman:
Arkham Asylum (Playstation 3)
You can say what you will about the erratic quality of most super-hero
games, but Batman: Arkham Asylum is definitely not cast from the same mold
as many licensed tie-ins. Its atmosphere is much darker than you'd expect
it to be and its elaborate plot, violent gameplay takes players into a
place most games don't usually explore. The elements of fighting, stealth,
and collecting make for a largely satisfying title that offers a
surprisingly rich world to explore while you battle the Joker and other
famous villains. Arkham Asylum gets much more right than it does wrong,
and this polished production is definitely going to please hardcore fans
of the caped crusader. |
 Wolfenstein
(Playstation 3)
Returning to the classic franchise, id and Raven Software take players
back to the legendary Castle Wolfenstein. Players once again take on the
role of BJ Blazkowicz as he wages war against the Nazis. As usual, the
Nazis are up to no good and are conducting occult experiments that can
unleash unbelievable power and its up to him to stop them. However, BJ has
found a powerful amulet that allows him to open 'the veil.' In this mode,
he can use these abilities against the Nazis, and this is Wolfenstein's
main draw. It helps to separate the game from other FPS titles on the
market but also makes things a little bit gimmicky. So does this unbalance
the game or is it a innovative twist that will keep you playing? We take a
look and find out. |
 King
of Fighters XII (Playstation 3)
There's been a pronounced resurgence in
classic versus fighting games over the past few months and the latest
combatant to enter the ring is the long-running King of Fighters series.
The latest installment, KOF XII brings streamlined play mechanics and
upgraded graphics to the table and delivers what players have come to
expect from the franchise. It's 22 characters offer a mix of familiar and
new characters, with many modes of play included as well. The move list
and fighting system has been simplified to allow newer players to perform
special attacks with much less effort. This makes for a more accessible
title that delivers traditional 2D fighting, but the question is whether
there's enough depth to keep players satisfied or is KOF XII more flash
than substance. Look inside as we take a look inside the game and discover
the answer.
|
 Sonic's
Ultimate Genesis Collection
(Playstation 3)
With more than 40 titles ranging from Sonic's classic adventures, to
Phantasy Star plus more obscure games like Dynamite Heady and Decap
Attack, the collection offers a good overview of the 16-bit era. Unlike
the last compilation, there are a few Sega Master System games unlockable
this time around like Shinobi and Fantasy Zone in addition to a couple of
arcade classics. The other major feature allows players to upscale the
games to semi-HD quality using filters, which is a nice addition. Overall,
Sonic's Ultimate Genesis Collection delivers exactly what you'd expect
from a compilation of classic games. |
 BlazBlue:
Calamity Trigger (Playstation 3)
The latest release from Arc Systems, the creators of Guilty Gear offers
gameplay that is both familiar and different. It's another 2D fighter in a
similar style, but has unique elements such as distortion attacks and
moves, that make it feel unique. Its characters are somewhat less balanced
and the gameplay moves at a slower pace. To compensate, BlazBlue includes
multiple modes including versus fighting, an extensive story mode and
extensive online support. Blaze Blu's beautifully designed HD visuals
explode from the screen with lush 2D anime-style character animation,
excellent 3D backgrounds and extensive voice-overs. Its intricate fighting
system makes BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger an unapologetically hardcore
fighter, but its excellent mechanics and challenging gameplay make for a
challenging and excting 2D fighting title. |
 Ghostbusters
(Playstation 3)
Based on the popular 80's films, Ghostbusters for the Playstation 3
delivers supernatural action, high-spirited comedy and cool special
effects. Playing as a new recruit, you run through the streets and
skyscrapers of Manhattan as you try to capture renegade spirits through
the use of your special energy beam weapons. Along the way, you'll
interact with the classic Ghostbusters crew and face off against some
familiar enemies. The gameplay is fairly enjoyable and somewhat
challenging at points, making it accessible for a wide audience. The
developers have done an excellent job in recreating the classic environs,
and this gives it an authentic look and feel. Its not the deepest game out
there, but Ghostbusters should please those who enjoyed the movies. |
 Virtua
Tennis 2009 (Playstation 3)
Sega's long-running Virtua Tennis series returns on PS3 with another
enjoyable installment that offers the usual solid gameplay mechanics,
excellent ball physics, intuitive controls plus an array of challenging
mini-games. Players can choose to play as one of dozens of real-life
tennis superstars including Nadal, Venus Williams and Roger Federer, each
of which mirrors their actual counterparts in terms of style and ability.
You can go with quick arcade-style matches and or build up your ranking in
World Tour mode. This isn't the most innovative sports title on the
market, but Virtua Tennis 2009 delivers an entertaining and exciting
sports experience. |
Prototype
(Playstation 3)
Prototype
casts players as a rogue super hero trapped within
New
York City
.
The player has to fight his way through military forces and evil mutants
to discover his true identity. Prototype gives players incredible powers
that allow him to battle, destroy and even consume enemies. As the game
unfolds, additional abilities are given which make the character even more
powerful, giving Prototype a fairly good sense of progression. The
question is whether this is enough to make for a challenging and
entertaining gaming experience or if the game’s technical achievements
are undermined by poor play mechanics. Look inside and discover the
answers. |
All
original content c. 2000-2009 the-laser.com
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