Review: Resistance: Fall of Man (PS3)

Graphics- 9/10
Sound- 9.5/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 9.5/10
Overall- 9.5/10

Resistance: Fall of Man is the must-own game for the Playstation 3. The game features excellent single player and multiplayer, which will keep you entertained for hours. Resistance is currently the best game for the PS3.

Resistance: Fall of Man was one of the launch titles for the PS3, but something sets it apart from the rest: it is actually good. The first thing I did when I played this game was play the single player. The story for the single player is very well done. Also, I noticed how good the graphics are. Since I don't have an HDTV, however, I wasn't able to fully comprehend how good they actually are. But the one thing I did notice is that it is definitely better than the graphics that can be produced on the PS2. In addition to the graphics, the sound is really done well, too. In some levels the background music really sets the tone for that particular level. For example, some moments seem pretty creepy, or others really tense, just because of the background music (or the lack there of). And while it is done in a rather simplistic nature, it creates the atmosphere for the game.

After I completed the single player, I played some cooperative. The lack of online coop is definitely a minus, but it is still more fun to yell at the person you are playing with when you can actually see them rather than over a mic. After a brief time playing coop, I went online. The online is done well, and the stat system is pretty interesting (except for that week when it didn't work...). The modes are all very fun, and the 40-player games are still fun, but are incredibly hectic since every where you turn, there seems to three opponents ready to gun you down. Speaking of guns, the weapons in this game are simply fantastic. The game is made by Insomniac, the developers of the Ratchet and Clank series, known for its interesting weapons. The variety available is incredible, and the weapons are evenly matched for both humans and Chimera (the enemy in the game). Take the human Carbine and the Chimera Bullseye, both the machine gun types for the separate races. The Carbine is more accurate, but the Bullseye has a higher rate of fire. In conclusion, if you have a PS3, get Resistance: Fall of Man. If you are going to get a PS3, get Resistance: Fall of Man. And if you have a PS3, want Resistance: Fall of Man, but cannot get it for whatever reason, sucks for you.

Pros: Great weapon design, good story, online multiplayer.
Cons: PS3 can do better graphics, no online coop.

Review: Eric

Review: Super Mario 64 (N64*)

Graphics- 9.5/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 9.5/10
Overall- 10/10

This game was one of only two launch titles for the N64, and it's a good thing it was because this game helped start the system off because of the buzz it created. All that buzz you hear is true, it is what made future platformers great.

This is the next installment in the Mario series and is the first to make the leap to true 3D. Instead of the side-scrolling Mario games we were used to, this game incorporates many new moves such as wall kicks, long jumps and backwards somersaults. The other thing that was added was cap power-ups. The Wing Cap allows Mario to fly, the Metal Cap makes him immune to most damage and allows him to withstand wind and walk underwater, and the Vanish Cap renders him partially invisible and allows him to walk through some obstacles such as wire mesh. The great thing about this game is the wide selection of levels. There are fifteen main stages in total (25 if the games 10 extra mini-levels are included), and each stage is unique. As for the gameplay, it's rather straight forward. You are in Peach's Castle to defeat Bowser and rescue Peach, but the problem is that the doors that lead to beat Bowser require a certain number of stars to open. In order to get enough stars to open the doors you have to jump through picture frames in the castle that lead to all of the worlds where you can get the stars for various tasks that you complete.

The big problem in this game lies in the camera; it's terrible. It starts off being automatically handled by Lakitu, but you can move it on your own using the C buttons. Even that won't save the camera, though. It still manages to get stuck behind walls and other such objects, which over time can end up really frustrating you. There also is some clipping (getting close to a wall = you can see through it) problems but that didn't bother me a great deal. To this day this game is still a great play, because of it's high replay value. Since you are only required to have seventy stars to beat Bowser, most people beat him then. This means that there are still fifty stars left to get in the game, because once you get all 120 you get to blast to the roof of the Castle and see Yoshi himself. This is the game that you wanted to have when the N64 came out because of it's revolutionary effect on gaming and it will go down in video game history as one of the greatest games ever made.

Pros: Gameplay, high replay value, new moves.
Cons: Camera, minor clipping.

Review: Dan

*Also available for download on VC - Review based on original

Review: The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask (N64)

Graphics- 10/10
Sound- 9.5/10
Gameplay- 9/10
Replay Value- 10/10
Overall- 9.5/10

Majora's Mask is a great sequel to Ocarina of Time. The graphics are mind-blowing and many of the elements that made Ocarina of Time a smashing success return, along with some improvements. However, the three day format that was used really bothered me and put a restriction on my open ended exploration, which is what makes Zelda games so good.

This game takes on the darkest tone of any Zelda game to date, mainly because the game is played in a continuous three day cycle that leads up to the moon crashing into the land of Termina, which is where the story is set, instead of Hyrule. The Moon is about to crash into the Earth because Skull Kid, while being his mischievous self, stole Majora's Mask and it took control over him, causing him to do many bad things including attempting to make the moon crash. Days pass as fast in this game as they did in Ocarina of Time, which on the surface makes three days appear to short to stop the moon, but once again some nice incorporation of music saves the day. The music is unfortunately not as easy flowing as expected, but still nicely done. The main songs in this game are about time control, whether it be traveling back to the start of the cycle, speeding up time, or slowing it down. The other big part of this game is masks (duh) there are so many masks - from the ones that make you run faster to the one that transform you into a Zora the masks definitely make the game and are nicely incorporated.

The problem with this game is that the three day format ends up putting a major restriction on what you do, and as a result you have to plan what you are going to do in each three day cycle beforehand. If you don't you might be forced to give up something mid-task and return to it later, which as you guessed can really piss you off. The other problem is that you might have to waste a whole cycle on a single sidequest you feel you must complete. As for sidequests, that is the game's strength, due in part simply to the sheer mass of sidequests, however some people might find this distracting. If it weren't for that, this game could top Ocarina of Time. Majora's Mask definitely tops it graphics wise because of what the expansion pack made the N64 capable of. There is so much going on in the game and on the screen at once it's almost unbelievable. The land is also as vast as it was in Ocarina of Time, although not as cleverly mapped out in my mind. Anyways the bottom line is that this game makes a nice sequel and is an excellent purchase for any N64 owner.

Pros: Graphics, good plot, easy controls.
Cons: Three day format, music not as good as expected (almost is).

Review: Dan

Review: The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess (Wii*)

Graphics- 10/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 9/10
Overall- 10/10

I feel like a dumbass for saying this but - buy this game... God, if you don't own this game well...you're a lost cause. There is a stat out there that says 3 out of 4 people who own a Wii own this game. That means 1 out of 4 Wii owners are, in fact, dumbasses.

Some people will ask if this game is better than Ocarina of Time. While some people will say that it is (and I can understand what they are saying), I think that Ocarina of Time is a better game. All the years of hype and build up, along with countless delays (of course) were well worth it.

When this game started up I was amazed by what the graphics look like, because unlike some people who have reviewed the game, I understand that this game was originally intended for Gamecube only and it was decided at the last second to port it onto the Wii. Which leads me to my other point that on some reviews they will criticize the fact that the uses of the Wiimote feel tacked on...well that's because they are. The controls on this game are very well layed out and done in the same style as Ocarina of Time and Majora's Mask, which I like a lot. The biggest change on the controls is the items. In Twilight Princess you set three items to the left, right, and down buttons. When you hit the button it switches to the A button for easy use. The overall gameplay starts out kind of slow, but picks up very quickly and it becomes very exciting. The other aspect of this game that I was curios to see and try out was being a wolf, which I heard is a major part of the plot and story. Well, it is a major part and while it seems like it would be hard to incorporate, it's done flawlessly.

The only minor flaw in this game is its replay value. The replay value is pretty high but it's not as good as Ocarina of Time, because after I beat that game I played it again right away (after I stared at the words "The End" for about an hour...I was in awe.) In this game I have played again but I ended up waiting a couple of days before I did. I am far from perfect completion and it will be a while before I get it. The bottom line is this game's replay value is slightly below what I expected, which might have something to do with the fact that this game isn't as earth-shattering as Ocarina of Time was.

Pros: Everything.
Cons: Slightly less replay value than expected.

Review: Dan

*Also available for Gamecube - Review for Wii only.

Review: Excite Truck (Wii)

Graphics- 9/10
Sound- 8.5/10
Gameplay- 9/10
Replay Value- 8/10
Overall- 8/10

Excite Truck is an absolutely insane racing game that you wouldn't think works but it's pulled off rather nicely. The game is all about boosting and points (stars). In other words, you can still win if you got the required number of stars even though you finished in last.

This game is better than I expected, because originally I saw it as a 5/6 overall. That changed after my first race. The game is so fast pace; it really gets your heart pumping and makes you want to keep trying. The first thing that I noticed was the disgraceful sound track that is so terrible...it's unreal. This is countered rather nicely by this game being the first Wii game to allow you play your own music on your SD card.

I was curious to see what the graphics would be like because what I had seen in early demos looked pretty decent for a system that is all but bypassing a graphics upgrade. I was right, the graphics on the trucks are really good, and while the background is average you barely have time to notice because you seem to always be going at a speed that blurs everything. As you can tell I love the fast pace of this game, but that isn't the only thing that I like. I also really like the points system, which can allow a second place finisher to end up in first, and while that can piss you off, it can also be an amazing way to comeback. There are several ways for points to be added, such as: Truck Smashes, Air, Air Spins (super tricky), Tree Runs (driving right next to trees), Drift, Truck Throws, Rings, and Crashes (one star only.) The most important aspect of this game is definitely the boosting. The boosting system is fairly common and simple- boost too much and you will overheat, but you can drive through water, snow, or fly through the air to cool yourself down quicker. Although not realistic, is adds a nice element. Overall, it’s a good racing game that should definitely be purchased.

Pros: Game style, own music choice, points system.
Cons: Original music, points system can piss you off.

Review: Dan

Review: Wii Sports (Wii)

Graphics- 7/10
Sound- 9/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 8.5/10
Overall- 8.5/10

Normally this is the spot I tell if you should buy the game. Well you get the game with the Wii so it doesn't matter. Don't forget about it just because it's an in package game. It's really good and shows what the Wiimote can do nicely.

This was the first game I played on my Wii because I wanted to see what the Wiimote could do, and lets face that is the point of this game. Many people think that this is just a party game but there is a skill level system that is involved in this game. It's so simple but makes you want to improve and play solo. I really don't feel like I have to say the obvious but this is the game to play with all of your friends. I guarantee a good time.

Tennis- One of the better games out of the five. This game is very responsive and not too challenging, which is what I believe Nintendo was trying to achieve. This is a game that is great when played solo but even better when played with someone. The game actually responds to how hard you serve and hit which is a big plus because you can really trick out an opponent.

Baseball- The most responsive game by far. You can test out how responsive the game is before the pitch by doing your best Sheffield impression. However, the downside to this game is the inability to change the number of innings. It's at three by default, which is nice, but there are some times where I want to play the full nine innings.

Bowling- The hardest to master, but is still fun. I was worried how Nintendo would handle this one because admittedly people bowl differently, but it worked out well. There are a few basic motions: pull back and push forward and, of course, timing. Timing is important because you have to time your release of the ball with your Mii, which is done rather easily after a while.

Boxing- The least responsive game easily, sometimes the nunchuck is sometimes registered as the Wiimote and vice versa. However, the game is still incredibly fun and you finally get the chance to beat up your really annoying friends, assuming you have at least one. This is the game that wears you out the most, so fatties beware.

Golf- The game that you are least likely to play, but very fun. In this case however, fun comes with a challenge. There is a set amount if force you can use and going over can cost you - odds are you will end up out of bounds, which, as any golfer knows, that costs you two strokes. The game is overall good but the problem lies in putting. When you get close to the hole the Wiimote seems to go haywire, and only choose to respond at certain times, which can be very frustrating.

The other thing I forgot to mention is the use of your Mii's which adds a new element to the game and increases it's longevity. Overall this game should not be forgotten for Twilight Princess, because it is definitely well worth some time and even more worth when you have some friends over to play it with you...you do have friends right?

Pros: Baseball, Bowling, Tennis, great party game.
Cons: Putting, Boxing is unresponsive.

Review: Dan

Review: Jet Moto (PS1*)

Graphics- 7/10
Sound- 9/10
Gameplay- 7/10
Replay Value- 6/10
Overall- 7/10

Jet Moto is a basic racing game with jet skis instead of cars. The graphics are decent and the soundtrack is excellent, but the game is very difficult and will take a long while to master.

Simply put, Jet Moto is an average racing game. The thing that sets it apart is that the vehicles are all-terrain, rocket-powered jet skis. However, other than the skins, they all look the same. The developers had a chance to something really innovative, but they passed up the opportunity. Also, they made this game very hard. On easy difficulty, the game is, well, easy. Other than that, the learning curve is very steep, and it is almost impossible to unlock all of the tracks. Also, this game has VERY blatant in-game advertising. The most innovative part of the game is the grapple, which allows you to make sharp turns very easily. If used wisely, this can save you from losing a race.

On the other hand, the graphics in this game are decent. Most of the levels look pretty good, and the character models are detailed. The soundtrack for this game is great. Each track has a different tune and all of them, with the exception of maybe one or two, are really good. Also, the sound effects are decent.

Pros: Graphics, soundtrack, grapple.
Cons: VERY difficult, Cheap AI.

Review: Eric

*Also available for PC. Review for PS1 only.

Review: Call of Duty 3 (Wii*)

Graphics- 8.5/10
Sound- 9/10
Gameplay- 7.5/10
Replay Value- 5/10
Overall- 7/10

Call of Duty 3 is an ok shooter for the Wii, with decent graphics and low replay value. There are points in this game that are such an obvious attempt to incorporate the Wiimote it makes you want to scream. The real killer is lack of multiplayer.

If you are going to buy a shooter game for the Wii this is the one to buy because it's simply the only respectable shooting title on the market for the Wii right now. The use of the Wiimote translates really well into this game; however, unless you have the right position your arms will get very tired. This game uses the Wiimote as your cross hairs, which I expect to be the common approach on future shooters. The thing that bothers me is when you are asked to use the Wiimote in ways that were obviously added just to use the Wiimote, and on top of that the don't respond well, one of the worst being the driving. The driving in this game is horrendous, but way worse than that is the fact that there is no multiplayer (only on the Wii). This game would be so much more fun if I was playing it against someone else. Activision really screwed up there.

The game itself apparently hasn't changed much since the second Call of Duty, however I never owned that so I can't say if it is. I still think this game has some very strong points to it, such as the intensity of it. There are points in this game where you are in the middle of so many enemies it's unreal. While the graphics in this game should be better, they are respectable. One of the best things in this game, surprisingly, is the sound. It is very realistic and intense, like the voice acting which is done really well. The only reason that I know how good the voice acting is, is because you can not skip the cut scenes and, unlike Ocarina Of Time, I really don't care about the cut scenes, I just want to blow the Nazi's faces off. Bottom line: if you own the Wii this is the shooting game to get.

Pros: Intense, controls.
Cons: No multiplayer, can't skip cut scenes, annoying uses of Wiimote.

Review: Dan

*Available for many systems. Review for Wii only.

Review: The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (N64*)

Graphics- 10/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 10/10
Overall- 10/10

I feel like a dumbass for saying this but - buy this game... God, if you don't own this game well...you're a lost cause.

This game needs no review, it's the best game ever. Period, end of discussion. Don't even bother to say any other game, not Majora's Mask, or Twilight Princess. When this game came out it blew people's minds and for a good reason. Look at those graphics. Jeez, at that time they were far and away the best graphics ever. What those graphics did for games on the N64 and games in general... it's insane. The gameplay in this game is a mile beyond every other game, from the absolutely MASSIVE playing field to the dungeons there is always something being done that makes you want to come back for more. The dungeons in this game are so amazing and in depth. They may be considered complicated, but they are at the right level - not to complicated. The hardest Temple is the Water Temple and that is the only temple that I took a significant amount of time to beat.

The sound in this game is also on another level. The sound is nicely timed and used when it is needed. The most important part of this game involves sound and let me just say that the songs are just phenomenal and incorporated flawlessly. Whenever I learn a song again I get chills up and down my spine. I say again because I have played this game some many times it is unreal, it is probably around a hundred - and I am not kidding - one hundred, probably over. The people who say that this game has no replay value probably didn't play this game. From the countless sidequests, to perfect completion attempts, along with beating the game without dying (it is possible...I have done it), and not to mention that fact that you just want to play it again.

Some people might say that since the fact that the ability to skip cut scenes doesn't exist the game should receive a slightly lower score. Well to that I say "WHAT THE F***?!?!" I want to watch the cut scenes, I want to get those chills up and down my spine, I want to remember why I must destroy Ganon. The only other argument that I hear is that the lack of ability to rematch defeated bosses and play through completed dungeons deems a lower score. Why don't you replay the game? This game is well deserving of all of the hype that it receives and is the greatest game of all time.

Pros: Everything.
Cons: Nothing.

Review: Dan

*Available for download on the VC - Review based on original.

Review: Hitman: Blood Money (360*)

Graphics-8.5/10
Sound-7/10
Gameplay- 9/10
Replay Value-8.5/10
Overall- 8.5/10

Hitman returns on the 360. It delivers for Hitman fans, but it might not be for everyone.

Hitman is a game of patience, and this doesn't change with Blood Money. The game can be slow, but very fun if you're patient. You have to plan your actions, carefully. Although you can run and gun, you'll probably lose. Besides that, you are given many options on how and what to do, making the experience very involving. The graphics are pretty good. But there are some minor glitches with the sound. Some sound is lost in certain parts, but this is rare. There lots of options and customizable weapons, giving you some replay value. This game can be fun, for the patient.

Pros: Fun, intuitive game play. Good replay Value. Options. Weapons.
Cons: Sound problems in certain parts.

Review: Vedran

* Available for many systems. Review for 360 only.

Review: Monopoly Party (Gamecube*)

Graphics- 3/10
Sound- 1/10
Gameplay- 8/10
Replay Value- 5/10
Overall- 5/10

Monopoly Party is a pretty bad game. The graphics and sound in this game are terrible and can distract you from the game. This is the lazy man's Monopoly, and if you don't like to play Monopoly...then why are you reading this? Don't buy this game (unless you like to play Monopoly.)

Let me start off by saying I only paid $20 for this game and I still might have over paid. My initial though was, "Hey, this could be fun to play with my friends sometimes." I guess it was at first, but the novelty of the game quickly wears off because the graphics and increasingly annoying soundtrack and voice acting distract you. The graphics in this game are terrible, but I guess if you're considering buying this it's probably not for the graphics. You will get fed up with the voice acting in this game, no matter why you're buying it. Not only is the acting bad, but it's repetitive and stupid sounding. The new addition to this game is the way to play called "Party" (verses classic) and that game is absolutely terrible, I can't even begin to explain it and all of its crazy rules.

The only positive thing about this game is it stays true to Monopoly and doesn't change the basic format unless you personally change the settings. You can set things such as the free parking jackpot and $400 when you land on "Go." 10 dollars is about the right price for this game.

Pros: Good if you like Monopoly. Good if you're lazy.
Cons: Graphics. Sound. Bad if you don't like Monopoly.

Review: Dan

*Game also available for Xbox and PS2. Review for Gamecube only.

Review: Sonic Adventure 2 Battle (Gamecube*)

Graphics - 7.5/10
Sound- 3/10
Gameplay- 8.5/10
Replay Value- 9/10
Overall- 7/10

Sonic Adventure 2 Battle has some good updates from the Dreamcast version but when place with bad voice acting and average graphics- it makes an average game. Don't spend $50 dollars on it, more like $25-$30.

Sonic Adventure 2 Battle has a great starting ground and basic idea but it falls short when it comes to voice acting and camera. The voice acting in this game is horrendous- I mean this is some of the worst I've ever heard. The only thing that might be considered worse is the camera- but I don't think so. The camera in this game is worse than Super Mario 64. However you can fix it with "L" and "R" but that's hard to get to work properly. Also, the graphics in this game would have been a little better off with an update.

Even though there are so many negative the gameplay isn't too bad- at least the multiplayer. The story mode has its peaks and drops. There are some levels that are really good, but some levels absolutely suck out loud. The multiplayer is really fun and entertaining. The best part of this game is it's really high replay value. There are five different ways to complete each level, and they are pretty challenging and will keep you coming back for weeks.

Pros: Gameplay. High replay value.
Cons: Voice acting. Average graphics. Camera.

Review: Dan

*Game also released for Dreamcast - Review for Gamecube version only.

Review: Mercenaries: Playground of Destruction (PS2*)

Graphics- 8/10
Sound- 8/10
Gameplay- 9/10
Replay Value- 8/10
Overall- 8.5/10

Mercenaries: Playground of Destruction is a pretty fun game by LucasArts. The expansive environment and many purchasable items make the game entertaining and last for hours. This is a very solid game and should be checked out by fans of the third person shooter genre.

Mercenaries: Playground of Destruction is set in North Korea, around the capital of Pyongyang. The environment is well-detailed and well put together. The character models also look nice and the animations flow smoothly. The game has many vehicles, and they all look good. The sound effects are also well done. There is no strange echo or unnecessary overlapping.

The best part of this game, however, is the gameplay. The story is ok and could use some improving. Besides that, there is just so much that you can do in this game. It is a lot of fun to just drift from the story line and wander around, doing random stuff, like putting C4 on the street and exploding it when a car goes by. The ability to do so much really adds to the replay value, because you always can figure out new areas to explore and new things to do.

Pros: Graphics, sound, expansive environment.
Cons: Story a little weak.

Review: Eric

*Also available for Xbox. Review for PS2 only.

Review: Super Monkey Ball 2 (Gamecube)

Graphics- 6/10
Sound- 7/10
Gameplay- 9/10
Replay Value- 5/10
Overall- 6.5/10

Super Monkey Ball 2 has gone through a major update since the first when came out and the new additions and improvements make the game worth purchase consideration (for a party that is).

Super Monkey Ball 2 is a great party game and not much more. Whenever you have a bunch of friends over it's a great way to pass the time. This is only made better if your willing to unlock all of the party games- and you should be because it's not that hard. The game itself is a great game. It's pretty challenging at parts but you'll be back quickly if you do decide to give up.

However, they tried to incorporate an actual plot into this game- and they really shouldn't have. I barely understand the plot as it is; it has something to do with a giant monkey shrinking the main characters down to a smaller size and... I don't know. The graphics in this game aren't the greatest and it isn't helped by the fact that you can fly right through the stage backgrounds. As for the sound in the game it's, well... unique. The soundtrack is OK at first but after a while it gets incredible annoying and I usually mute the TV. The worst part of this game is the lack of replay value. The only reason you would want to replay is to finish unlocking all of the party games and after you beat the game on advance for the first time you should be pretty close to having enough points for them. Overall it’s a good $30 dollar buy.

Pros: Party games. Good the first time.
Cons: Sound. Minimal replay value. Graphics meager.

Review: Dan

Review: Crash Bandicoot (PS1)

Graphics- 6/10
Sound- 7/10
Gameplay- 7/10
Replay Value- 4/10
Overall- 6/10

Crash Bandicoot became the mascot for the PS1, and this game showcases why. It is a fun platformer, but be prepared for a challenge because this game is very hard.

Crash Bandicoot has some decent graphics for the PS1. They will not win any awards, but they are good enough not to distract you from the game and make you say, "Wow, these are bad graphics. The most detailed part is the levels. The backgrounds all look nice and the animations flow very smoothly. However, the characters could have used some more touching up. The sound effects in this game are also pretty good. They are not glitchy and will not strangely overlap (See: Madden '07). The background music is also well done, and each tune fits well in each of the levels.

The gameplay for Crash Bandicoot is typical platformer. The team at Naughty Dog "borrowed" a lot of themes from Mario, but they added their own twist to fit in the game (collect 100 apples, not coins, for an extra life). However, be prepared to jump in this game. A LOT. Most levels have you jump from platform to platform to get to the end of the level. And because of this, you will die. A LOT. This is why the game is so frustrating and hard. It is often times hard to judge distances, making you jump too short or too long, resulting in a near-guaranteed death. This also brings the replay value down because you do not feel you need to replay levels if you will just die during them. Despite the jumping and dying, however, the game is pretty fun. If you enjoy a challenge, pick up this game. But if you don't, approach with caution.

Pros: Fun, smooth animations, nice level variety.
Cons: Little replay value, repetitive animations, very linear gameplay, very difficult.

Review: Eric

Review: Luigi's Mansion (Gamecube)

Graphics- 7/10
Sound- 8.5/10
Gameplay- 8/10
Replay Value- 3/10
Overall- 7/10

This is the first official Mario game to feature Luigi exclusively and was a great way to help launch the Gamecube. This game definitely showed Nintendo that Luigi has the power to sell a game. This is a good buy for almost any gamer.

Luigi's Mansion features Luigi searching for Mario instead of Mario searching for Peach. As it turns out Luigi won a mansion in a contest that he didn't enter. He and Mario planned to celebrate at the mansion that night. Seeing as Mario arrived there first he was captured. While this plot is weak, it's what you would expect from a game that features a Mario Bro. As it turns out Luigi has to fight ghosts by sucking them into a vacuum (the Poltergust 3000) to fight his way through the mansion. The controls in this game are a bit confusing at first (the Poltergust 3000 doesn't help) but don't worry, because after a while you'll be sucking things like a pro (pun?... What pun?)

While the graphics won't blow your mind they are were a nice start for the Gamecube and in a sense, the graphics that we are used to in a Mario Bros. 3D platformer. The sound in this game pretty good- Luigi will actually shout out "MARRRRRIIIIIOOOOO!?!?" while he's wandering the mansion and there are other little minor sound effects such as wall tapping that sound really good. There are just parts where, in my mind, the sound seems to fall short- possibly due to a lack of it a certain points. The only down side to this game is the total lack of replay value. Once you're done with this game-you're pretty much done with it. The only reason you might want to play again is to get a higher score, but I don't think you will.

Pros: Sound. Good controls once mastered. Typical Mario (I mean Luigi) game.
Cons: No replay value. OK graphics.

Review: Dan

Review: Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec (PS2)

Graphics- 10/10
Sound- 9/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 9/10
Overall- 9.5/10

The Gran Turismo series is known for excellent racing games, and Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec is no exception. With excellent graphics, a nice soundtrack, and plenty of cars and racetracks, Gran Turismo 3 will keep you entertained for hours on end. Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec is probably the best racing game on the PS2.

Gran Turismo 3 was a huge step forward for the series from Gran Turismo 2. First of all, it was the first game in the series on the PS2. Second, the graphics made a huge improvement. Yes, I know PS1 graphics are much worse than PS2. However, people were complementing GT2 on its graphics and it was on the PS1. The graphics of GT3 are amazing. They are so realistic (besides the fact that there is no collision damage). Everything in GT3 looks nice. The cars, the courses, the scenery, everything. In addition, GT3 comes with an exceptional soundtrack to add to the experience.

As for the gameplay, Gran Turismo 3 is more than the average racing game. The guys at Polyphony made sure that the physics in this game were lifelike, and they are. Also, there are a ton of cars in this game. Most of them are offered from the get-go, and their price range from around 10,000 Credits to 2 million Credits. However, the best cars are only available by unlocking them. You do this by coming in first in all of the races in a tournament. There are cars from several automakers around the world, and there are many types of cars, too, from sedans to racecars to rally cars to F-1 cars, they're all here. Also, the game has plenty of beautiful looking tracks to race around on. With all the unlockables and races, GT3 will keep you busy for a long time.

Pros: Superb graphics, lots of cars and tracks, good soundtrack.
Cons: No collision damage.

Review: Eric

Review: Halo (Xbox*)

Graphics- 9/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 9/10
Overall- 9.5/10

Halo is the Xbox game to get. Its exciting gameplay truly changes shooters. Along with that, Halo delivers on style, music, and story.

Halo came out as a launch title for the Xbox, it was the killer app the new console needed. Halo's gameplay is perfect. In shooters, the little details really matter, from the details on the gun to the muzzle flash to the sound of the gun, and halo does it right. Every move you make feels just right. Every thing is balanced in way so you get sucked right into the game. Then, the action takes place. Everything's amped up- the aliens you're fighting are smart, they work together, they use snipers, and they attack with blazing speed. You're on the edge of your seat most of the time in Halo. As well you're given an awesome arsenal to fight with- rifles, snipers, grenades, rocket launchers, plasma weapons. Each weapon is useful in its own way, and they’re all fun. Plasma grenades stick to enemies, needlers follow the target you're shooting. Bottom line- this game is FUN.

Along with that the game is charged with powerful music and nice graphics that compliment the game play. The game progresses amazingly, you do not get bored half way through, nor do you feel rushed. Like I said, the music is powerful, and it really fits the whole setting and feeling of the game. The music also changes depending on the mood and what's happening. As well, Halo has an excellent multiplayer part to it that is great fun. There are plenty of options in multiplayer and it's very exciting. The multiplayer really adds great replay value. Halo is a superb game; it really delivers in all aspects and is plenty of fun.

Pros: Game play, design, levels, weapons, music, multiplayer.
Cons: Not for everyone.

Review: Vedran

* Also on PC

Review: Ninja Gaiden Black (Xbox)

Graphics- 9.5/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 9.5/10
Replay Value- 7/10
Overall- 9.5/10

Ninja Gaiden is an amazing game that keeps you on your toes and focused on the action with its high difficulty and great game play.

Ninja Gaiden Black is an updated version of the older Xbox Ninja Gaiden, it only costs 5 dollars more and it's worth it. But lets talk about how the game actually plays. The first thing you'll notice is the graphics, they're very detailed (though not as detailed as some other Xbox games) and they're very shiny. The screen is clear and very easy on the eyes. But the games high point is, as it should be, the game play. Now, a warning first, this game is very, VERY, hard. It is possibly the hardest game on the Xbox. But the game play is just perfect, it works very well and it makes you plan out your attacks and the techniques you learn are actually useful (life-saving, actually). As well, all of your attacks (and your enemy's attacks) feel very real. You can actually feel the clash of flesh and steel, and this game received the M rating for a reason. Many times you slice limbs and heads of enemies, which are followed quickly by sprays of blood. Everything just fits together perfectly, the game play, although hard, is very fun, exciting, addictive, and just perfect.

But of course, this doesn't just include cutting up the many, many enemies, it includes exploring various environments, from a village, to an airship, and a huge, ancient city to ruins filled with hazards. Also, you'll be solving many puzzles to advance forward. These puzzles are a bit challenging, but still fun. These 3 parts of the game play (that is, fighting, exploration, and puzzles) are perfectly put together and balanced. As for the story, it's really well written. There are some plot twists, but the the story never gets confusing, and it's very fun to see the characters develop. It's a very good story that has a lot to it, making it very enjoyable. Although, the replay value is a little low. That's Ninja Gaiden Black, a perfect, well put together game that offers a good challenge with classic, pure, challenging, and just plain fun game play that keeps up as the game advances and it's supported by superb graphics and a great cast of characters and a very enjoyable plot.

Pros: Very fun, quick game play. Great graphics.
Cons: Might be too hard.

Review: Vedran

Review: The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion (360*)

Graphics- 9.5/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 10/10
Overall- 9.5/10

Oblivion is, simply put an excellent game. Do not miss this one.

Ever since I started playing this game, I cannot stop. It is amazing, the main quest is very fun and the story is great, but there is so much more to do. There are many groups and guilds you can join, giving you even more quests to do. The game is HUGE, so you can also go on your own adventures as well. There are hundreds of ruins, forts, castles, and settlements to explore, where you can find thousands of items, weapons, and armor. Along the way, you'll fight many creatures, from goblins to ghosts, and bandits to vampires. The combat system really shines, as it is pretty involving and very exciting, making these encounters very enjoyable. It's so fun to fight in this game that I've often found myself actually looking for creatures to fight, and this doesn't happen often with RPGs. Also, as you travel through this game, advancing through the main plot and the many other smaller plots, your adventures will be pushed forward with the game's amazing and powerful soundtrack. And, of course, the graphics are amazing. There's a TON of detail in the characters, creatures, and environments, giving the game a sense of realism, but with a special epic fantasy feeling. Many times on your travels, you'll find yourself standing on hills, surrounded by unbelievable environments that truly take your breath away.

There are only two problems with this game- long loading times, and, since the graphics are so detailed, you won't be able to see in perfect detail very far away, but it still looks good. This game is pretty much perfect, as it keeps you playing, giving you a near endless supply of fun, exciting, and just plain amazing quests and adventures. This is a must own game for the Xbox 360.

Pros: A lot to do great music and graphics, very fun. TONS of replay value.
Cons: Long loading times.

Review: Vedran

*Also available for PS3. Review for Xbox 360 only

Review: Guitar Hero (PS2)

Graphics- 8/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 9/10
Overall- 9.5/10

Guitar Hero, for the PS2, delivers fun gameplay and an amazing soundtrack, and makes great use of the guitar controller. A must-have game for any PS2 owner.

Guitar Hero is a very fun game. The guitar controller adds a lot, and really immerses you in the game. It also brings a new level of difficulty to typical rhythm-based games. But the most important part of the game: music. The variety of music in this game is incredible. From classic rock to heavy metal to punk to alternative to grunge, it's all here. There are four difficulty levels: easy, medium, hard, and expert, and for each difficulty level the number of notes in a song and the amount of frets used increases. The learning curve is a little steep, but if you play guitar or are good at rhythm-based games you should be fine.

And for the graphics, well... the fretboards look cool, I guess, and the characters look... interesting. Yeah, it is a little hard to judge the graphics because all there is the background and the characters. They all look good, though. The replay value for this game is really high because there are plenty of unlockables and it will take you forever to be perfect at this game. Also, the amount of songs that you can play really helps so that it doesn't feel like you are playing the same old stuff over and over again.

Pros: Soundtrack, controller, plenty of unlockables.
Cons: Learning curve, no Pink Floyd or Beatles.

Review: Eric

Review: 007: Agent Under Fire (Gamecube*)

Graphics- 7/10
Sound- 9/10
Gameplay- 7.5/10
Replay Value- 5/10
Overall- 7/10

007: Agent Under Fire is a great multiplayer game with an ok single player. The story mode in this game is what you would expect from a 007 game. The graphics are an improvement from N64 although not a great one. The game has very little replay value other than getting better scores.

007: Agent Under Fire was the first Bond game on the Gamecube and you can tell because the graphics are about the same as the N64. The single player itself is mediocre at best because of its low difficulty level. There are a few levels that you have to drive a car, which doesn't translate well onto the Gamecube. The single player in this game is really short with very few creative levels with some of the levels appearing out of place due to difficulty (the eighth level is one of the hardest levels in the game and the last level is one of the easiest). The best part of this game is the multiplayer definitely. The Q-Claw and Jet Pack add a nice touch but can become cheap and annoying after some time (they can be turned off.) The level choices aren't the greatest- mainly because of their size- but some (Town and Harbor) are pretty good. The multiplayer can get boring after some time because it's too basic. Overall it's just an ok start to James Bond in the next generation.

Pros: Multiplayer. Controls. Easy.
Cons: Single player. Driving levels. Too easy.

Review: Dan

*Game also available for PS2 and Xbox - Review for Gamecube only

Review: Spider-Man 2 (Gamecube*)

Graphics- 10/10
Sound- 5/10
Gameplay- 7.5/10
Replay Value- 6/10
Overall-7.5/10

Spider-Man 2 is a fantastic visual presentation along with seemingly unlimited roaming ability in New York City. The problems lie within the missions - they become very repetitive, you get bored of the about 4 different mission styles. If not for that, this game would be amazing as a sandbox game.

Have you ever wanted to dive off of the Empire State Building? Well now you can - and no doubt will in Spider-Man 2. The rendering of New York City is stunning which leads to willingness to explore. The main story that you follow isn't anything special but it's enough to keep your attention as well as providing a decent challenge. The only thing that might match the rendering of New York in awesomeness is the fighting - the style in which you fight is breath-taking. You can run up to someone and punch them into the air at fight up in the sky. The controls in this game are also pretty easy to learn- but can get complicated after buying a couple of new moves.

However this game can get very repetitive after the main story is finished. There are about 4 different mission styles that you repeat, repeat, repeat, and repeat. This always led to me turning off out of boredom - which I don't do a lot. The other problem is the sound - it constantly overlaps itself, but the narrator in the game is great and sarcastic. If you beat the game 100% there is very, very, very little to do afterwards. If they come out with Spider-Man 3, still buy it.

Pros: Stunning visuals. Good storyline. Nice fighting style. Controls.
Cons: Repetitive. Sound overlaps. Low replay value. Controls.

Review: Dan

*Game also available for PS2 and Xbox - review for Gamecube only

Review: Super Smash Bros. Melee (Gamecube)

Graphics- 9/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 8.5/10
Overall-9/10

Super Smash Bros. Melee was a great almost launch title for the Gamecube. I know it was the first game I wanted for it. The game has good graphics, is glitch free, and, as always with the series, a must have for a gamer gathering.

This game is very similar to the N64 version with the exception of new characters and updated graphics. The single player in this game is massively addictive, not only because you can unlock new characters, but you can also unlock trophies. The multiplayer in this game (as in N64) is pretty much the reason the you should buy the game (if you have four controllers... and friends.) Event mode is nice and plays well, as well as adding a nice challenge to the game. The bad thing about this game is that it can get boring after awhile but that phase should pass quickly and you'll playing once again. The sound in this game is really good and is nicely timed with cool visual effects. This was definitely the game to have when Gamecube came out and it still is the game to have when you and your friends get together.

Pros: Multiplayer. Visual effects. Good replay value.
Cons: Some people might get bored of it - not many.

Review: Dan

Review: Katamari Damacy (PS2)

Graphics- 8/10
Sound- 8/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 6/10
Overall- 8/10

Katamari Damacy is a simplistic but innovative game from Japan. The simple graphics, sound, and gameplay are trippy, different, and fun, but after a while gets a little boring.

Katamari Damacy is one of those trippy games from Japan that is a sleeper hit, like Rez. The gameplay is very simplistic. You, the Prince of All Cosmos, have to roll up all the things that are scattered across the Earth with your Katamari to create stars because your dad, the King of All Cosmos, accidentally destroyed them all one night (how they make this stuff up, I'll never know). While this may sound boring, it actually leads to some surprisingly fun gameplay.

You will quickly become addicted to this game, as the strange but fitting graphics draw you in to a cartoonish representation of the Earth. The reason the graphics work for this game is because of the type of game that Katamari Damacy is. You would not want ultra-realistic graphics for this game. Also, the soundtrack and sound effects of Katamari Damacy fit well into this crazy game. They are not distracting and complement the game nicely.
That being said, this game has very little replay value. The multiplayer may keep you and your friends entertained for a short while, but after you beat the game, you become bored because once you have seen what this game has to offer once, it is not as fun the next time.

Pros: Innovative gameplay, creative storyline, good control scheme, trippy graphics and. soundtrack
Cons: Multiplayer lacking, little replay value.

Review: Eric

Review: Madden 2007 (PSP*)

Graphics- 7/10
Sound- 8/10
Gameplay- 9/10
Replay Value- 9/10
Overall- 8.5/10

This is the same game only put onto the PSP. Madden '07 brings back the same features that you're used to without anything new.

The graphics in this game are great for the PSP. However if glitches bother you this game will drive you crazy. The one main glitch is what I like to call "button switching." This annoying and somewhat common glitch is only noticed before a play. If you want to change a play or view the play on the field you hit "R" and it zooms out and shows the play with the button assigned to each player. However sometimes when you do this it will mix up the buttons (it always fixes itself before the play.) There are other minor glitches you might notice on instant replays, but your not likely to catch them during gameplay. The only other flaw is the announcing, which will sometime repeat or delay itself. Otherwise the second Madden title on the PSP has a nice overall feel and quality to it. I also really enjoy showing it to people who are unaware of what the PSP is capable of - the usually say something along the lines of "Dude, that looks like PS2 graphics." Another positive thing is the load times have been cut in half this year, which is always positive. The game does have some minor lag but it's not that bad and it's present all Madden versions. I can't wait to see if these glitches will be fixed on '08 or not.

Pros: Great graphics. Better load times than last year. Same Madden we've come to know.

Cons: Glitches, Glitches, and Glitches. Al Micheals calling is sometimes messed up. Same Madden we've come to know.

Review: Dan

* Game for every console (includes PC)- Review for PSP only