Probably the second best game in the series with "Street Fighter II" being number one. The art style and animation are fantastic and the mechanics are less complex than they were in SF III. This is very much a "pick-up-and-play" fighting game. It's very accessible to newbies and includes plenty of content. The lineup is also impressive with Ryu once again being the most well-rounded character. Overall, this is a classic SF installment. I would rate it with a 9.4 out of 10.
More "Devil May Cry" than "Symphony of the Night". This 12-hour action/adventure takes place entirely in a Gothic castle much like the original "Castlevania". As you progress and explore, you'll earn different whips, unlock attack combos and discover hidden areas. It's pretty straightforward, but you'll have to backtrack if you want to find everything. The game has fluid combat, challenging boss fights and some cool unlockables. But the RPG elements of "Symphony" are missing. While it's not a masterpiece, "Lament" is an entertaining action game. I would rate it with an 8.4 out of 10.
This wacky Western shooter was originally developed by Capcom, but revived by Rockstar Games. It went on to inspire the open-world classic "Red Dead Redemption". However, "Revolver" is more "Max Payne" than "Grand Theft Auto". The story mode is in the tradition of the old "Wild Wild West" TV show. It's very linear, but a lot of fun. And the split-screen multiplayer can be confusing, yet engaging. Overall, this will appeal to fans of "True Crime: Streets of L.A." and "Dead to Rights". I would rate it with a 7.7 out of 10.
The Wii port of Infinity Ward's classic shooter is impressive for Wii standards. It surprisingly includes everything that is in the HD versions. However, the graphics have been downgraded to run on Nintendo's console. The framerate holds up well enough, but can get iffy at times. And trouble comes in the Wiimote controls which are not as smooth as they should be (despite numerous customization options). Regardless, COD 4 on Wii is a must play for series fans. It nicely captures the experience of the original game. Also, there's a way to play the story mode in co-op. Overall, I would rate this with a 7.6 out of 10.
An arcade-perfect port with plenty of extra content. The point-and-shoot gameplay is quite simple, but can be challenging. While there are only three levels to the Arcade mode, several pathways and bonus objectives extend the replay value. As you progress, you'll earn plenty of unlockables. There are several firearms and skins that can be earned. Of course, the best way to play "Ghost Squad" is with a partner in co-op. Overall, I would rate this with a 7.7 out of 10.
The Xbox One remaster is solid, but a remake would've been preferable. The game is still very good. However, it's certainly showing its age. Originally released in 1997, it perfectly captured the over-the-top tone of the 1995 movie. Levels are well designed with various objectives (depending on difficulty level) to complete and various weapons and gadgets to use. The multiplayer is just as enjoyable with its numerous maps and modes. Overall, I would rate this with a 9 out of 10.
The best Hitman game on the PS2. The formula is very familiar, but the gameplay has been refined and expanded upon. Each level is like a puzzle to solve. You can assassinate your targets in many ways. However, you must first recon the area before you attempt to make a clean kill. If you mess up, your "notoriety" increases and the jobs become more difficult. As you progress, you'll earn cash that you can use on weapons or lowering your Notoriety level. The game is a must for stealth fans. I would rate with an 8.4 out of 10.
"Separate Ways" on the PS4 runs smoother than the main game itself. While there are still major pop up issues, the framerate is certainly more steady. At 6 hours long, this DLC is worth the $10 charge. Each of the five chapters are diverse and include side-missions. And while it's a faithful remake of the previous "Separate Ways", there are some nice changes to the story. In addition, Ada's grappling hook can now be used as a weapon during combat. Overall, I would rate this with an 8.8 out of 10.
This follow-up to "Burnout 3" is just as exhilarating. It features a darker look, slicker vehicles, more takedowns and a harder rocking soundtrack. The track designs have also been upgraded with alternate routes and shortcuts. However, gameplay is less innovative and the new addition of "Traffic Checking" makes things too easy. While "Revenge" is basically an updated "Burnout 3", it still ranks up with the greatest racers ever made. I would rate this with a 9.1 out of 10
Probably the worst RE spin-off ever made. The game is a PvP online shooter that has no story campaign or single player modes. Matches are team-based and are extremely brief. This is like a bare bones version of "Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six: Siege". There are plenty of better e-sports games than this. Play "Overwatch" instead. Overall, I would rate this with mobile-type game with a 3 out of 10.
This remake of the Ada Wong mini-campaign is terrific. Like the main game itself, it's a faithful re-telling of the original story, but with modern changes and new cutscenes. The campaign starts off with a challenging boss fight and never lets up. If you take your time, you'll finish it in about six hours. Overall, it's a great mix of narrative, action and puzzles. I'd rate it with a 9 out of 10.
Expands and improves upon "Fallen Order" in every way. It's easy to see how 2018's "God of War" inspired this sequel. The story continues Cal Kestis' journey with bigger action and adventure elements. There's just more of everything including combat moves, weapons, puzzles and missions. The developers added different ways to interact with the bigger worlds and their larger environments. Customization was also expanded upon. And the game pushes the hardware's visual and audio capabilities to its limits. "Survivor" nails the cinematic presentation of the movies, even more so than its predecessor. The look, sounds and music are classic "Star Wars". It will take completists around 50 hours or more to finish the game. Overall, I would rate this with a 9.2 out of 10.
"Ninja Gaiden 3" is a cross between "Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance" and "Dante's Inferno". It's a streamlined version of the previous two NG games. The game's hack n' slash combat is less challenging and more repetitive. You don't need much strategy to kill enemies or bosses. In addition, there's only one type of ninpo magic attack that you can use. However, story elements were added with numerous cutscenes and a talking Ryu Hayabusa. Unfortunately, QTEs were needlessly added to the action. With "Gaiden 3", Team Ninja also introduced online co-op missions and competitive modes. The game can be mindless fun. But as a "Ninja Gaiden" game, it's lacking in many ways. Overall, I would rate this with a 6 out of 10.
"Wrath" is modeled after "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge". Based on the 80's cartoon show, it feels like a beat 'em up originally made for the SNES. The presentation is perfect with its colorful pixels, animated sequences and retro soundtrack. Even the simple combat mechanics are fine for this type of game. It features 12 levels, 6 playable characters, several unlockables and up to 4 player local co-op. Too bad it's missing online play. It's also too bad the action gets repetitive quick and the boss fights are underwhelming. After you finish this 2-hour game, you'll quickly forget it. Overall, this is a decent throwback for "Joe" fans. But it could've been so much better. I would rate "Wrath of Cobra" with a 7 out of 10.
Quite simply, the best Spidey game ever made. This is like an HBO version of the movies made by Marvel Studios. The gameplay is reminiscent of past Spider-Man titles. But it's also in the tradition of "Batman: Arkham City". Visually, the cinematic presentation is top-notch and the graphics are cutting edge. However, some of the mission types can become repetitive quick. Additionally, the game is perhaps a little too easy at times. Still, it's a terrific ride and I would rate it with a 9 out of 10.
The PS5 remaster of Marvel's Spider-Man looks terrific with its 4K resolution and ray tracing. Loading screens are practically non-existent and the Dual Sense's Haptic feedback is utilized. It also includes all DLC. This is a must-play for those that didn't experience it on the PS4. It might be a little too easy and some of the missions can get repetitive. But overall, "Marvel's Spider-Man" is the best Spidey game ever made. Overall, I would rate it with a 9.1 out of 10.
"Village" blends the styles of "Resident Evil 7" and "Resident Evil 4". The result is a terrific game, but it's not quite on the level of those two masterpieces. The horror atmosphere of RE 7 makes a return. However, there's more action than scares this time around. The gameplay and locations are more in line with the style of RE 4. A good story, great villains and an emotional climax are what makes this an outstanding game. The PS4 version running on a base console is impressive, but I would rate it lower than the PS5's. The framerate and resolution are much lower, but the pop up issues are more of an issue. Also, the loading is slower. This was meant to be played on PlayStation 5. Overall, I would rate the PS4 version with an 8.4 out of `10.
The best thing about the PS5 port of "Fallen Order" is that you can play it with 60 frames per second. By choosing "Performance" mode, you'll get more fluid combat and a sharper look than with the "Quality" 4K option. Faster load times than the PS4 version is also a plus. If you've never played "Fallen Order", than this is the definitive way to play it. Overall, I would rate this with an 8.1 out of 10.
Remastered with the Unreal Engine 4, this collection of "Asylum" and "City" includes all DLC. The updated graphics are quite impressive, even though they've lost some color from the original art. Unfortunately, both games still run at 30 FPS. But regardless, they look amazing and are still fantastic to play. It's too bad the "Origins" prequel did not make the cut. Overall, I would rate this with an 8.3 out of 10
"Two Towers" also includes levels based on events from "Fellowship of the Ring". The game itself is a cross between "Dynasty Warriors" and "Golden Axe". It's also rather short. You can finish it in 5 hours with each character. As you progress, you'll earn experience points that can be used to upgrade combo attacks, health and strength. Visually, the graphics and presentation are top notch. But while "Two Towers" is fun, it can be a little rough and difficult. Combat is fast and fluid, but blocking and dodging can be tricky to pull off. On the plus side, a bonus level and extra character can be unlocked. In addition, there are plenty of behind-the-scenes videos to enjoy. Overall, I would rate this with an 8 out of 10.
"Conviction" is a polarizing entry since it marked a departure for the series. Like "Hitman: Absolution", it streamlined the gameplay to make the action faster. "Splinter Cell" purists will probably hate it. But anyone open to a different spin on the series will have fun. The story picks up after the events of "Double Agent". Sam Fisher is on the hunt for his daughter's killer. He no longer uses his trademark night vision/thermal vision goggles or the gadget/assault rife. In addition, he's much faster when sneaking around. Multiplayer is no longer competitive, but cooperative. There are several modes including a two-player campaign which takes place weeks before the single player story. If you're a fan of James Bond or Jason Bourne, than you'll enjoy "Conviction". I would rate it with an 8.3 out of 10.
The best of Remedy's sci-fi "trilogy". You play as Jesse Faden, a woman in search of her missing brother. She stumbles upon a mysterious government agency that investigates the paranormal. Gameplay is a mix of third-person shooting and light platforming. There are weapon upgrades, text logs and videos scattered abroad. Sadly, the framerate suffers from occasional slowdown. But the game is more entertaining than "Alan Wake" and "Quantum Break". I would rate this with an 8.2 out of 10.
A post-apocalyptic sci-fi game that is great looking, but also tedious. This game plays out like a futuristic take on UPS. The player's job is to deliver packages in a desolate land filled with hills, cliffs and river banks. It sounds boring and it can be. But the story is intriguing and the cinematic cutscenes are astounding. Die-hard fans of Hideo Kojima will enjoy it, if not entirely love it. I would rate this with a 7.4 out of 10.
First off, "Arkham Knight" looks phenomenal with its dark cinematic atmosphere. The gameplay also brilliantly expands upon the formula established in the previous titles. But the Batmobile "tank" missions are a disappointment. Still, the story is great and the presentation is cutting edge. While this trilogy capper may not be as great as "Arkham City", it's still a must play for Batman fans. Overall, I would rate it with a 9.2 out of 10.
A masterpiece. Years before Rocksteady flopped with "Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League", they delivered this great Batman experience. It's the video game equivalent to Christopher Nolan's "The Dark Knight", which had been released a year earlier. A darker spin on "Batman: The Animated Series", the game combines the style of "Bioshock" with the adventure of "Metroid". Everything from the story to the graphics to the combat are top notch. Overall, I would rate this with a 9.3 out of 10.
This reworked port of the 2004 Xbox game is the definitive version. Taking advantage of the PS3 capabilities, "Sigma" features slicker graphics, a new weapon, additional enemies, streamlined mechanics and extra levels with a new playable character. It also utilizes the motion sensor feature of the Dual Shock controller. The game is a joy to play due to its fluid, slick combat and adventure elements. But it's also very challenging. For action fans, this is a must addition to your PS3 library. I would rate it with a 9.1 out of 10.
This upgraded re-issue of the 2004 release is a near masterpiece. It includes a new Mission Mode, four difficulty levels, new costumes, extra weapons, added cutscenes, an improved camera and the original arcade game. "Ninja Gaiden" is very tough, but always fair and this "Black" version is a must own for action fans. Overall, I would rate it with a 9.5 out of 10.
This reworked port of the 2004 Xbox game is the definitive version. Taking advantage of the PS3 capabilities, "Sigma" features slicker graphics, a new weapon, additional enemies, streamlined mechanics and extra levels with a new playable character. It also utilizes the motion sensor feature of the Dual Shock controller. The game is a joy to play due to its fluid, slick combat and adventure elements. But it's also very challenging. For action fans, this is a must addition to your PS3 library. I would rate it with a 9.1 out of 10.
"Dead Space" 2023 is more of a modern update than a true remake. Still, it's better than the original game. New content includes added side-missions, a talking Isaac Clarke and an expanded story. Also, the map is more useful and the anti-gravity sections have been improved. In addition, the infamous "asteroid" segment has been completely re-done. Overall, this is the definitive version of "Dead Space". It took me 16 hours to finish. And there is an alternative ending that can be unlocked with a second playthrough. I would rate this version with a 9.1 out of 10.
The best of the RE remakes. It's a masterpiece just like the original GameCube title from 2005. The developers did the right thing by staying extremely faithful while updating for modern standards. If you never played "Resident Evil 4" before, you'll be blown away. Some fans might be disappointed the game doesn't deviate much from the source material. But to do so, would've been a mistake. There's just enough new features to make this remake stand on its own. Overall, I would rate it with a 10 out of 10.
This "House of the Dead" spin-off is a fun tribute to grindhouse zombie flicks. It's a fast-paced "rails" shooter that is best played in co-op mode. The crudeness and constant F-bombs will probably turn off some players. But if you loved "Lollipop Chainsaw" and "Left 4 Dead", then you'll enjoy the gory ride. As you finish levels, you'll unlock artwork and music tracks. And after you finish the story, you'll unlock a Director's Cut. In addition, there are a few mini-games that you can also play with a buddy. Overall, I would rate this with an 8 out of 10.
The PS4 port of the PS2/Wii collection is perfect for shoot 'em up fans. It's by no means "arcade perfect", but it captures about 90 percent of the originals. All seven games are fun, but some are better than others. "Anthology" also includes art and music galleries. And the PS4 version does include a "Metal Slug" theme. Overall, I would rate this with an 8.3 out of 10.
A GameCube masterpiece. It's been ported to almost every console since and inspired many imitators. The game is scary, intense and goofy. It's survival horror that also happens to be a challenging action game. A must play not just for both fans and non-fans. Overall, this is a 10 out of 10.
"Ghosts" is a fun grungy take on the action spy movie. It takes place in the near future in a post-apocalyptic United States. As usual, the campaign is filled with big action sequences right out of a Hollywood movie. Unfortunately, the game doesn't distinguish itself enough from the "Modern Warfare" and "Black Ops" entries. And while online multiplayer is enjoyable, it feels a little familiar. In addition, "Extraction" isn't as good as Zombies. But if you're a big COD fan, then you'll enjoy the game despite its "Greatest Hits" feel. Overall, I would rate this with a 7.8 out of 10.
Not as good as the remake, but still a solid entry. The only thing that pulls down this prequel is the inventory management. You spend a lot of time dropping and picking up items due to the lack of a storage box. Still, the graphics are fantastic, the boss fights are terrific and the puzzles are challenging. Overall, I would rate this with an 8.2 out of 10.
An improvement over "The Umbrella Chronicles". The environments are bigger and the presentation is better. Much like "The House of the Dead", this is a "rails shooter" meaning you don't control the characters. You basically just **** everything, not just the zombies. That is, if you want to unlock extra content and currency to upgrade weapons. A good story and tough boss fights really add to the experience. Overall, I would rate this with an 8.1 out of 10.
Treyarch's best "Call of Duty" game pulls much inspiration from Infinity Ward's "Modern Warfare" series. It has an intriguing Cold War story and terrific settings. The graphics are amazing and the action set pieces are fantastic. In addition, multiplayer was in top form and Zombies made a glorious return. Overall, this is one of the best COD games ever made. I would rate it with a 9 out of 10.
"The Evil Within" is from the creator of "Resident Evil 4" and "Shadows of the Damned". Unfortunately, it never reaches the heights of those two games. It's entertaining, but gets bogged down by bland characters, a convoluted story and a choppy framerate. As a survival horror title, it is challenging with a great look and lots of gore. I would rate it with a 7.8 out of 10.
This reboot has a story and style that evokes the war dramas "The Hurt Locker" and "Zero Dark Thirty". The campaign adds stealth missions and storytelling to the shooter formula. It's a slower paced game than the original "Modern Warfare". Visually, it looks great with photo-realistic graphics that reminded me of "Resident Evil 7". Multiplayer isn't as evolved as the story mode, but it's still good. And Spec Ops can be fun online with a team, but it's too tough for single players. However, it's not quite as good as Spec Ops from MW 2 and 3. Overall, I'm not a fan of how "Modern Warfare" is installed. But I would rate it with an 8 out of 10.
A true action masterpiece that was arguably the best game of 2007. Developer Infinity Ward not only topped their previous efforts (Call of Duty 1 and 2), but crafted the definitive FPS of the Xbox 360 era. Like "Grand Theft Auto III", it was a revolutionary title that influenced many shooters. The amazing set pieces still hold up quite well. Along with the masterful story mode, the addictive multiplayer is what set the benchmark .for online shooters. Great graphics, great story, great action. This is a great game that ranks up with "Bioshock", "Metal Gear Solid 4" and "God of War". I would rate it with a 9.4 out of 10.
The campaign was wonderfully remastered by Raven Software. It's obvious the game is running on a different engine. The graphical update is fantastic with new added effects that enhance the experience. Several new graphical filters are also available. They're mainly goofy and just for fun. Multiplayer also holds up, but unfortunately it was updated with loot boxes and microtransactions. Overall, I would rate this with an 8 out of 10.
A fun, but routine WW II first-person shooter. The game is nowhere as impressive as its big brother "Call of Duty 2". But as a PS2 game, it still looks and sounds good. The campaign lasts about 7 hours and is quite diverse. Missions take place in several different countries and environments. However, unlike other COD games, you'll always play as the same soldier. While "Big Red One" isn't on the level of "Medal of Honor: Frontline", it's still enjoyable. I would rate it with a 7.3 out of 10.
This follow-up to "Call of Duty: Black Ops 2" is fun, but routine. The story takes place in the near future in an apocalyptic United States. It's a good premise. However, the gameplay feels uninspired. Gunfights make up the bulk of the campaign. But there are times when you control a dog for stealth attacks. The final level plays like an homage to the James Bond movie "Moonraker". Along with the story mode, "Ghosts" also has the usual multiplayer, "Squads" and "Extinction", the aliens survival mode. The PS3 version runs well. But it lacks the sharp resolution and details that appear on its Xbox 360 cousin. Overall, I would rate this with a 7.2 out of 10.
Treyarch's gritty WW II shooter is a solid follow-up to "Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare". While the story isn't as thrilling and the action not as slick, the game really holds its own. Graphically, it looks fantastic. The campaign is divided into two stories; the U.S. fighting in the Pacific and the Soviets battling the Germans in Europe. It can be played with three other partners online as well as in two-player split-screen. The game also marked the introduction of Zombies with a simple map. Servers are still up for the multiplayer modes. Overall, I would rate "World at War" with an 8.5 out of 10.
The taut storytelling elevates this rather routine action/war shooter. It plays like a less impressive "Gears of War". But the script is just a bit more thought provoking than the typical "Call of Duty". It's comparable to shows like "The Hurt Locker" and "Generation Kill". In the campaign, you'll grab the usual assortment of firearms and explosive devices to mow down enemies. There are also simplistic squad commands that you can utilize. The gameplay is comparable to "Uncharted" and "Max Payne 3". There are also multiplayer modes and cooperative online missions. But it's the story mode that is the real deal of the package. Overall, I would rate this with an 8.3 out of 10.
A fantastic collection that celebrates the legacy of the classic TMNT video games. It includes 13 games, online play, a rewind function, the Japanese versions, cheats, enhancements, filters, borders, different aspect ratios and an extensive museum of artwork and music selections. The games themselves all hold up well. Both arcade games are included as well as the NES, SNES, Genesis and Gameboy games. It's a must have for TMNT fans. I would rate it with an 8.5 out of 10.
While the Sega Genesis port is arguably better (extra levels, added cutscenes), the arcade version is still an improvement over the original "Rolling Thunder". It's a two-player cooperative side-scrolling shooter. Each of the eight stages have their own enemy types and distinct settings. There are no boss battles, but it's impressive to see many on-screen bad guys at any given time. This is a fun and fast action game with beautiful pixel art. Overall, it's an 8 out of 10.
While "Homecoming" isn't as good as the first four SH games, it's still a worthy entry. American developer Double Helix mainly borrows from the "Silent Hill 2" formula and refines the combat. The game has a nice variety of locations and monsters. Unfortunately, it suffers from some bland design and the lightning can be too dark at times. But despite some lackluster decisions, "Homecoming" captures the essence of the series. I'd rate it with a 7.4 out of 10.
A bare bones collection of all three games in the series. However, the ports themselves seem pretty close to being arcade perfect. Of the three titles, only Part 3 holds up as it has refined mechanics and a superior presentation. Still, the first two are still fun, if a bit dated. Overall, I would rate this with a 7 out of 10.
This is a collection of Metal Slug 1 - 6 and X. While the ports are not arcade perfect, they're still solid and worth playing. Along with the seven games, "Anthology" also includes art and music galleries. Overall, this is an impressive package. I would rate the PS2 version with an 8.3 out of 10.
