Christmas Buyers Guides:
Handhelds | Downloadable | Wii | HD: Part 1
Ashes Cricket 2009
Format(s): PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Publisher: Atari
At PALGN we don't like cricket, we love it! Unfortunately, cricket has too often been the ugly stepsister of sporting titles in recent times, though thankfully Codemasters has done their part to turn that around - first with their best-selling Ricky Ponting series and now with Ashes Cricket 2009. While Ashes Cricket 2009 isn't the definitive cricket title, it's an enjoyable sporting title that will keep the cricket nuts happy until the Ashes rolls around again.
Our review said: Ashes Cricket 2009 doesn’t disappoint with the glitches and lack of glamour when compared to bigger sports titles. It’s the fact that Codemasters have previously provided more substantial experiences in the past and that this one is so familiar. Despite the room for improvement though, Ashes Cricket 2009 is an enjoyable cricket title. Arguably, the batting is the most important aspect and apart from the occasional timing issues, it strikes a good balance between playability and reality, while multiplayer matches are quite evenly based. So while it gets the style, just manages to trump the substance and it is a fun cricket game, the next game will need to give a bit more. [FULL REVIEW: 7]
Band Hero
Format(s): PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Players: 1-4
Publisher: RedOctane
The Hero series was no stranger to consumers this year with six titles saturating the market to lure away the hard-earned dollars of casual gamers everywhere. While not overtly different from its Guitar Hero brethren, Band Hero is takes on a slightly more pop oriented flavour making it more accessible for those that don't have a passion for the rock and heavy metal that the series is known for. It may not win over everyone's heart, but there is plenty of poptastic fun inside this musical package.
Our review said: Band Hero is not a challenging entry in the series, nor is it one that is going to be enjoyed by the hardcore members of its fanbase. It's aimed at the teenage crowd who play Guitar Hero at parties, and they'll most likely enjoy this new entry. With a lighter track-list, vibrant visuals and mechanics such as the 'Sing Along', it's a young casual gamer's game, and it's a sensible extension of the Guitar Hero brand. After seeing the track-list, most of you will have already decided whether you're picking this one up or not, and if you are rest assured that it's a pretty good game, if not the most challenging or original. [FULL REVIEW: 7.5]
Colin McRae DiRT 2
Format(s): PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Players: 1
Publisher: Namco Bandai
The first game in the Colin McRae series since his untimely death in 2007 not only proved to be a great testament to late, great rally champion, it also gave gamers an alternative to the track-based and street racing video games on the market. A fresh look at off-road racing coupled with diverse range of challenging real-world locations make this one racing title that is worth a look.
Our review said: Though Dirt 2's hip new outlook is a bit irksome, it's still an excellent racing game. It looks incredible, the driving is a lot of fun and it's got a healthy online component. Touches like using your 360 avatar as a windshield ornament, the way old buildings will actually fall apart when you crash into them and the game's music running backwards when reversing a replay all demonstrate the care and with which Codemasters have put this game together. The game's range of courses and cars aren't as far reaching as most titles, but Dirt 2 opts for quality over quantity. If you're into racing games, this one is a no-brainer. [FULL REVIEW: 8.5]
DJ Hero
Format(s): PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Publisher: Activision
When first announced, DJ Hero seemed nothing more than an attempt to cash-in on the good name of the Guitar Hero franchise. But upon release, many rhythm gamers threw down their plastic guitars, instead dancing to a different beat with the slick mixes of artists such as Jay-Z, Daft Punk and DJ AM. So this Christmas, give your budding DJ buddies the gift of wiki wiki!
Our review said: In the end, we would very heartily recommend DJ Hero. While the music may not be to everyone's tastes, and the game perhaps hasn't completely capitalised on the amount of DJ-ing insanity it could achieve, it's nonetheless a challenging and refreshing change for the music game genre. If you've looked at the setlist and yawned, then this probably isn't the game for you, but for anyone who's grown up with Gorillaz or Daft Punk and has been waiting for a music game that doesn't involve ear-shattering karaoke or the constant clicking of plastic guitars, DJ Hero is definitely for you. Although to be honest, if that does describe you then you're being a bit picky. [FULL REVIEW: 8.5]
Demigod
Format(s): PC
Players: 1
Publisher: Stardock
Heavily influenced by the popular Warcraft III custom map Defense of the Ancients, this RPG/RTS hybrid puts players in the shoes of a Demigod, a character with its own set of skills to utilize in order to conquer their enemies as they partake in a battle of supremacy to take over the land. It may not be the greatest strategy game on the market, but its solid, challenging gameplay and breathtaking visual make this a title that is simply divine.
Our review said: Demigod shows that in order to have a deep game, you don’t need a multi-tiered class based perk MMORPG theory-crafted system. All you need is a character to control, abilities to use and a citadel to defend, and with this comes a lot more depth than you would think. Tactics between teams can become increasingly more complex and tricky, and a whole match can be based almost entirely on how you use your Demigod and co-operate with others. Admittedly, it’s a bit of a shame to see no tutorial mode built-in, as entering a match for the first time can be quite an overwhelming experience, but this is redeemed somewhat with the inclusion of full bot support and a tournament mode called ‘Pantheon’, which pits you against AI controlled Demigod’s throughout each map, giving you some time to get the gist of things. The main star is the Multiplayer aspect however, which makes the game really shine. For RTS fans, Demigod is a must-play, who are likely to find its style and gameplay hugely appealing. Though Demigod doesn’t necessarily reach god-like levels of gaming, it does give us a nice taste of it, and sits comfortably between the world of mortals and pure divinity, as it intended. [FULL REVIEW: 9]
Dragon Age: Origins
Format(s): PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Players: 1
Publisher: Electronic Arts
For those role-playing gamers looking to suck away many, many hours in a game world, you seriously can't go past BioWare's latest effort - Dragon Age: Origins. BioWare has been leading the pack in the RPG stakes and it's not hard to see why as this dark and sophisticated, fantasy RPG draws you in with its end of the world storyline and keep you chained to your platform of choice thanks to solid gameplay, gorgeous graphics and more quests than you can shake a stick at. For those waiting around for Mass Effect 2 next month, do yourself a favour and sink your teeth into Dragon Age - you won't be disappointed.
Our review said: Dragon Age: Origins is another fantastic RPG from BioWare. It’s a game that really gives you your money’s worth and not only is there so much to but there is enough incentive to go back again and again just to see how things would turn otherwise or perhaps even just to experiment with a different race/class of character. BioWare has created another classic for us and while the Xbox 360 version may not be the most definitive version of the game, it is still one of the best RPGs you can find on the console. A word of warning though, this game is not for the causal or impatient. [FULL REVIEW: 9]
FIFA 10
Format(s): PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Players: 1-4
Publisher: Electronic Arts
A popular staple of the EA Sports stable, this year's iteration of the world game is said to be one of the best on-the-pitch football experiences that EA has ever put together. Featuring a revamp of the Manager and Be a Pro modes, this year's edition is sure to please the most diehard soccer fan.
[FULL REVIEW: Coming Soon]
Forza Motorsport 3
Format(s): Xbox 360
Players: 1
Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios
Touted as the Xbox 360 equivalent of Gran Turismo, this Xbox racing franchise has grown from strength to strength with each iteration, and this entry is no exception with Forza Motorsport 3 again delivering on the promise of giving gamers a realistic racing experience.
Our review said: Forza 3 is close to the complete racing game package. It's got the sheer volume of content in terms of cars, tracks and options, a deep and very lengthy single player mode, a creative, thriving online community, and it successfully balances casual and hardcore appeal. Forza 3 may not look the best or sound the best, but it races the best. [FULL REVIEW: 9]
Guitar Hero 5
Format(s): PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Players: 1-4
Publisher: Activision
Picking up where Guitar Hero World Tour left off, Guitar Hero 5 set out to get players to bring their four-piece plastic bands back together for another tour. This time around the game has made itself a lot more accessible to the plastic instrument noobs of the world while also keeping that essence of difficulty for the plastic instrument gods among us.
Our review said: Guitar Hero 5 is pretty much what one would expect out of Activision’s giant franchise, which is a consistent and solid sequel to a successful series of party titles. Guitar Hero 5 however is easily the most accessible of the bunch, with the inclusion of things such as Party Play mode and Band Assembly, making partying with the rocking title much easier. GHTunes and GHStudio have also made a return and are much easier to navigate, with a new mode following them named GHJam, which lets you jam to custom songs with trippy visualisations in the background. There’s also the career mode which is standard in the series, and quick play, which now gives you all 85 songs to play with from the get-go. We could go on, but if you’re any kind of Guitar Hero fan, you’d know what to expect. There’s a ton of content to be seen and heard in Guitar Hero 5, and whether you’re a newcomer or veteran to the series, it’s certainly a title worth spending your hard-earned cash on. [FULL REVIEW: 8]
LEGO Indiana Jones 2: The Adventure Continues
Format(s): PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Publisher: LucasArts
Following in the tradition of the popular LEGO video game titles, LEGO Indiana Jones 2: The Adventure Continues takes a second pass at the Indiana Jones franchise in brick form. While the last title focused on the first three movies in the series, this game concentrates the action on the fourth movie, Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull while also including new adaptations of the first three movies. Delivering on the solid base of LEGO action, this title also features a level editor and the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 will also soon contain online co-op gameplay in an upcoming patch.
[FULL REVIEW: Coming Soon]
LEGO Rock Band
Format(s): PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Players: 1-4
Publisher: MTV Games
With the Guitar Hero franchise offering up the family friendly fare in Band Hero, the Rock Band team also hit back with their accessible version of their music rhythm game with LEGO Rock Band. Featuring a mix of classic tracks and contemporary favourites, coupled with the introduction of Super Easy mode, this music title is sure to get the party started at your next family gathering.
[FULL REVIEW: Coming Soon]
Lips: Number One Hits
Format(s): Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios
Giving Xbox 360 gamers their own SingStar-esque title, Lips returns with a second disc full of hot tracks, with the focus being on songs that have climbed the charts all the way to the number one position. Featuring a mixture of classic artist such as MC Hammer and contemporary pop tarts like Lady Gaga, Lips: Number One Hits is sure to be the soundtrack for your next casual gaming night with friends.
[FULL REVIEW: Coming Soon]
Mini Ninjas
Format(s): PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Players: 1
Publisher: Eidos Interactive
The charming little action-adventure title that is Mini Ninjas brings more kung-fu action to your video game diet. The strongest feature about this title is that it truly appeals to all ages, with the bright colour scheme and accessible gameplay attracting younger players, while the adults will find themselves fighting to get their hands on the controller thanks to the charm and tongue-in-cheek humour of the game.
[FULL REVIEW: Coming Soon]
NBA 2K10
Format(s): PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Publisher: 2K Sports
The king of the hardwood court has returned for another season with NBA 2K10 and in its anniversary tenth season 2K10 sure doesn't disappoint the basketball faithful thanks to its solid gameplay mechanic and realistic take on the great game of hoops. This year's edition also features a single-player career mode for the very first time, giving gamers another reason to pick up this definitive basketball title.
Our review said: Overall, NBA 2K10 has once again managed to school its competition by providing gamers with a solid, fast-paced digital representation of the NBA. While most features greatly enhance the facets of its game, there are some niggling issues which will annoy you at times. But niggling problems aside, you'll be hard pressed to find a better basketball simulation around. [FULL REVIEW: 8.5]
Need for Speed Shift
Format(s): PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Players: 1
Publisher: Electronic Arts
This perennial racing series has seemingly coughed and sputtered in comparison to the racing titles around it in recent years, forcing Electronic Arts to go back to the drawing board to find out just what made gamers go gags for Need for Speed. This year's edition has shifted slightly from the arcade core of NFS titles of the past by injecting elements of a simulation styled racing experience, while still providing long-time fans with the thrills and sleek automobiles that the series is known for.
Our review said: Overall, while Need for Speed Shift appears to be aiming at providing a simulation-racing experience, it obviously hasn't forgotten about the series' core fan-base, making a game that can be enjoyed by just about any kind of racing game fan. The 'Aggression'/'Precision' system sees you constantly rewarded by playing the way you want to play, and the game's presentation, especially the cockpit view, will leave many eyeballs satisfied (if not totally violated, like others in the simulation genre). If you've been waiting for the new Forza or Gran Turismo sequels to hit, you might want to spare some time for Shift, as it proves to be a more than worthy contender that is absolutely worth a look for some thrills on wheels. Dare we say, this is the one time when it's good to be... shift-y? You're right, that's lame. [FULL REVIEW: 8.5]
NHL 10
Format(s): PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Players: 1-4
Publisher: Electronic Arts
For the puckheads among us, you simply can't go past EA's NHL franchise to bring all of the rough and tumble action of the world of ice hockey. While NHL 10 doesn't boast a significant number of changes over last year's addition, those you have yet to partake in the board smashing world of hockey should definitely take this title out for a spin around the ice.
Our review said: There's no denying that NHL 10 is a fantastic package, and plays a wonderful game of hockey - especially in multiplayer modes. The problem is that this game is just too similar to last year's effort to make it a worthwhile upgrade for all but the most dedicated hockey fans. Sure, the board play, revised fighting style and upgraded Be A GM mode are nice, but they are hardly significant upgrades by any stretch of the imagination. However, if you've yet to stake around with NHL 09, this is worth a long, hard look - it's a very complete and polished package that could you have addicted for a long time. [FULL REVIEW: 8]
Pro Evolution Soccer 2010
Format(s): PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Publisher: Konami
In the world of videogaming, the flame of compeition continues to burn brightly between soccer's two rival franchises. Whether you're firmly entreanched in the FIFA camp or the Pro Evolution Soccer camp, one thing is for sure - both titles are chock full of top-shelf football action. While not boasting as many league licences as the FIFA series, Pro Evolution Soccer 2010 continues to set the bar high in terms of a challenging, realistic soccer experience.
[FULL REVIEW: Coming Soon]
SEGA Mega Drive Ultimate Collection
Format(s): PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Publisher: Sega
The Sega Mega Drive Ultimate Collection is a compilation of some of the most beloved titles from the Sega Master System and Mega Drive era. Featuring classic Sega characters such as Sonic the Hedgehog, Ecco the Dolphin and Alex Kidd, these old-school gems will have most gamers waxing nostalgic about the 8-bit era of gaming.
Our review said:At the budget price that Sega Mega Drive Ultimate Collection's been released at, it offers tremendous value for money. There are over forty classic Sega games presented just as they were back in their heyday, with interesting incentives included to keep you playing through all of the titles included in the collection. There's a lot of retro-goodness to find, whether you're a Sega fan looking for a nostalgia trip, or you missed the Sega/Nintendo console wars and want to see the company's golden age. From the serene to the silly, the fast to the furious, and the deep to the devious, the Sega Mega Drive Ultimate Collection is possibly the company's best retro work so far. [FULL REVIEW: 8]
SingStar: Motown
Format(s): PlayStation 3
Players: 1-2
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment Europe
Another day, another SingStar title - there's just no denying the pulling power of Sony's heavyweight karaoke title. While recent iterations of the series have focused on contemporary pop hits and cheesy songs of yesteryear, SingStar: Motown is bringing a little more soul back into the world of SingStar, featuring many of the big hits of the Motown Records era.
Our review said: So that’s it in a nutshell – it’s SingStar and it’s Motown. The songs are great fun to sing – nearly everyone will recognise them and most will enjoy them. We strongly recommend getting some friends together, grabbing an afro wig, and popping this one into your Sony machine of choice. It’s as easy as 1-2-3 and Sunday morning. [FULL REVIEW: 7.5]
Skate 2
Format(s): PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Featuring even more tricks than its predecessor, Skate 2returned to consoles with another serve of gnarly skateboarding action to entice skater boys and girls to San Vanelona once more. Building upon the winning formula of the first title, this challenging title had many old dogs lining up to learn a new trick or two.
[FULL REVIEW: Coming Soon]
Tales of Vesperia
Format(s): PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Players: 1
Publisher: Namco Bandai
It felt like an eternity before Tales of Vesperia hit our corner of the world, but the wait was definitely worth it as this JRPG sucked us in with its tactically sound battle system and heavy emphasis on exploration. For those players looking to sink many hours into a title on a lazy afternoon, this will be the gift that keeps on giving.
Our review said: As maintained through out, Tales of Vesperia is an enjoyable action JRPG with a frantic though tactically laid battle system as well as plenty of little bits and pieces to be found through exploration. Admittedly, the game raises questions about genre conventions and clichés, and just how long can we continue to put up with them before some advances and innovations are made. Both Vesperia and other recent JRPGs have made minor advances, but none have put them altogether in the one game. At the end of the day though, fans of the genre will appreciate what Tales of Vesperia has to offer and will almost definitely have a blast playing through it. [FULL REVIEW: 8]
The Beatles Rock Band
Format(s): PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Players: 1-4
Publisher: MTV Games
This year the Rock Band franchise came together to devote an entire title to a particular band (much in the vein of the Metallica and Aerosmith flavoured Guitar Hero titles) and no more is more iconic than The Fab Four themselves. The Beatles Rock Band takes gamers on a musical journey throughout the sonic experience that is The Beatles back catalogue giving gamers a music title that evokes an emotional reaction from music lover of all ages.
Our review said: The beauty and strength of this game lies in the Beatles' songs themselves. Games try so hard and fail so often to make an emotional connection with the player, but in the case of Beatles Rock Band, that connection will already be there for most people who play it. It's almost cheating in a way, but when you're gleefully singing along to Yellow Submarine, absorbing the dreamscape that accompanies Here Comes The Sun, or nailing harmonies in With A Little Help From My Friends, you wouldn't have it any other way. [FULL REVIEW: 8]
Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10
Format(s): PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Players: 1
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Before he became tabloid fodder, Tiger Woods was known purely as that nice guy golfer with a killer swing. While there isn't much competition out in the world of golfing video games, the Tiger Woods series has consistantly brought a solid golfing experience to armchair golfers everywhere.
Our review said: In the end, golf fans are going to adore this title. It's a strong representation of the sport and there's a huge amount of content to keep them going until the inevitable PGA Tour 11. For those less enamoured with golf, PGA Tour 10 still has a lot to offer, particularly in the level of tangible physical interaction it offers the player. [FULL REVIEW: 7.5]
WWE SmackDown Vs. RAW 2010
Format(s): PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Publisher: THQ
Now several iterations in, this annual franchise proves that the wrestling genre continues to go strength to strength each year. WWE SmackDown Vs. RAW 2010 was a significant step up from its older siblings as the title featured a number of improvments, most notable was the shift in presentation style which made gamers feel like they were sitting back on the couch watching the latest installment of wrestling on the TV.
Our review said: The bottom line here is of course that WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2010 isn't a perfect game, but there isn't a serious need to go over the flaws when it's such a big step forward for the franchise overall. There are so many improvements that it stands out as one of the most successful wrestling games of all time, and easily the best of this generation. The creativity that it allows you is unmatched, and the fact that you can share your stories and creations with the world means that the game could effectively last you forever, and the entire game has been given an edge in presentation that genuinely makes you feel like you're watching the programming, which is not an easy thing to deliver. Improved in almost every way, this is one chunk of gaming goodness that's impossible for any true wrestling fan to ignore. [FULL REVIEW: 8.5]
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