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"Watch Dogs" is basically "Grand Theft Auto" for the Wi-Fi generation. After much E3 hype, it certainly doesn't live up to expectations. But despite many flaws, the game is also very entertaining. In it, players step into the shoes of Aiden Pierce, a hacker whose daughter is accidently killed after a botched job. This tragedy involves Aiden's former friend who forces him into committing a series of major cyber crimes. It's a premise that could've been featured in a TV show, but the tone is jarring; a mix of satire and seriousness. The gameplay, on the other hand, is consistent in providing open-world fun. Just with a cell phone (!), you create major havoc by controlling traffic lights, creating black outs, raising street barriers and stopping trains. The story based missions are fun, if a bit familiar. "Watch Dogs" also features a progression system similar to many open-world adventures. You unlock various weapons and abilities as you complete the campaign and optional objectives. Aiden can also hack into the phones of pedestrians to steal their money. The more entertaining mini-games include "Digital Trips" and "Phone Games" which emulate retro arcades. And like in "Far Cry 3", you must hack into towers if want to expand the map's various missions. Character customization is limited to slightly different wardrobes and there are four different "skill trees" which can be upgraded as you gain "experience points". In the two of the online modes, you can either hack or tail another player which can lead to chases or deaths if you are discovered. And you can also race others while they try to stop you by raising barriers or bridges and hacking traffic lights. The online Mobile Challenge is basically a race to the finish line, but the catch is that a real person with a tablet can stop your progress by hacking street lights, barriers, etc. The next-gen versions of "Watch Dogs" also include Encryption, a "Splinter Cell"-like mode in which two groups battle for a laptop they must hack and an 8-player "Free Roam" mode. Overall, the game is fun, but it can be disappointing for those expecting major innovation. 8 out of 10 Collapse

"Battlefield 4" plays more like "Battlefield 3.5" than a full blown sequel. Plagued by major launch problems in Oct. 2013, the game has since been fixed through numerous updates/patches and is still very popular online on the XBOX ONE almost three years later. BF 4's biggest introduction to the series is the Commander Mode in which one player on each team sends attack commands/battle updates across to other players in the field. While there are no cooperative modes in BF4, the game further refines the combat of BF3 with more customization options, in-game challenges, performance boosters and medals/badges. Multi-colored briefcases (which can be purchased or earned) carry weapon attachments, boosters and weapon/vehicle camo paints. I played BF4 initially on the PS3 which was good, but limited to 12 vs 12 matches. The XB1 version supports 64 player matches on Conquest. That player limit is what distinguishes BF from the "Call of Duty" franchise. In any given time during a match, there are several battles going in the field which gives the game an epic feel. And while I still feel "Battlefield: Bad Company 2" is the best in the series, "Battlefield 4" is still pretty good. It may not be very innovative (it sticks to close to the BF3 formula), but this is a better game than its competitor "Call of Duty: Ghosts". 8.5 out of 10

This sequel to "Batman: Arkham City" is the conclusion to Rocksteady's very own Dark Knight trilogy. While it falls short of being a perfect 10, "Arkham Knight" is still an excellent game. Unfortunately, the addition of the Batmobile is not a great one and the familiar structure gives off the feeling of deja vu. But the experience is awesome thanks to a terrific story, satisfying combat and an amazing open-world environment. Taking advantage of the current-gen's graphical capabilities, the developers have crafted a visual tour de force. Gotham has a dark cinematic look comparable to the NYC of Snyder's "Watchmen" and the detailed character models are a marvel. The main plot is similar to the "The Dark Knight Rises" with Gotham being terrorized by Scarecrow and his partner, the Arkham Knight. Of course, it's up to Batman and friends to help put a stop to it. The game's tone is darker than its predecessors, but it's not enough to justify the earned 'M' rating. In fact, there isn't much gore or profanity; just mature themes and the usual action-heavy cartoon violence. In addition to the campaign, Rocksteady has loaded the game with the Challenge Rooms, Riddler puzzles and trophies of past installments. I cannot comment on the season pass since I do not own it, but there are some nice free add-ons including the "Batman V Superman" skin. Overall, "Arkham Knight" is a game that is a must play for fans of the series. It may not dethrone "City" as the best in the trilogy, but it's an excellent accomplishment nevertheless.

This sequel to the 2013 reboot is a slightly more refined and bombastic game than its predecessor. It features a Lara Croft that is a few steps closer to being the character we've all come to know and love. And just like the gritty reboot, it is an 'M' rated game complete with F-bombs and occasional spurts of bloody violence. In this installment, Lady Croft is on the search for a mythic "Holy Grail"-type object which is also being sought out by an evil paramilitary organization. It's the type of plot that would be right at home in an Indiana Jones movie. The gameplay is the same as before, but everything has been expanded upon. There are more tombs to explore and puzzles to solve as well as weapons and useful items to discover. Additionally, developer Crystal Dynamics has made this TR even more cinematic with over-the-top scripted events that are reminiscent of those featured in "Uncharted 2: Among Thieves". Beyond the excellent 20+ hour campaign is "Expeditions", an arcade-style spin on each level that players can modify to make them more challenging or just easier with RPG-like cards. The RPG cards can be purchased with real money or with in-game earned currency. There are no multiplayer modes to speak of, but Expeditions definitely makes up for it. You can also tackle user-created Expeditions and even create your own which you can share online. There's also a season pass that you can purchase, but the great thing of "Rise" is that it really feels like a full game. Visually, the game is gorgeous with little screen tear to speak of. Framerate issues are also virtually non-existent with an almost constant 30 FPS on display. "Rise of the Tomb Raider" is an improvement over "Tomb Raider". It ranks up with "Batman: Arkham Knight", "The Witcher 3" and "Metal Gear Solid V" as one of the best action-adventure game of 2015. So it naturally is a must have for XBOX ONE owners. 9.2 out of 10.

"The Evil Within" doesn't set the standard for modern survival horror. In fact, it's probably best described as a throwback to earlier games of the genre. Playing like a cross between "Resident Evil 4" and "Silent Hill", this is a title that manages to entertain for a solid 15 hours, but does nothing to innovate. So it's safe to say that if you liked those two franchises I mentioned, than you'll have a hell of a time playing through "The Evil Within". It's fun. But for those who want an evolution of the genre, you'll most likely be bored. This is a game that uses familiar action-adventure tropes, but does throw the occasional curveball such as one-hit deaths. The story of "The Evil Within" is a convoluted mess that makes little sense, its characters are devoid of any real type of personality and the game contains a few bugs. This is the bad side of the game. On the good side are the creepy environments, scary villains and the gore galore. If you were disappointed with the action movie feel of "Resident Evil 6", than you'll be pleased to know that "Evil Within" never goes in that direction. Yes, this is a horror-themed action game from beginning to end, but the horror element is emphasized for the most part. In away, the game feels like a spiritual sequel to "Resident Evil 4" in its gameplay. Not only can you upgrade weapons and abilities, but you can also set traps, stealth kill and craft different trick arrows. If you discover keys and puzzle pieces, you'll be rewarded with a special weapon and extra "upgrade" points and special ammo. "The Evil Within" also features many newspaper clippings and files that contain backstory in the vein of "Resident Evil". Unfortunately (just like "Resident Evil 4), it concludes with more action than you'd like, but until then, it's a grisly and grotesque affair. It may not be too scary, but "The Evil Within" contains enough of the creepy stuff to keep you on your toes. It's what "Resident Evil 5" could've been.

The XBOX 360 HD version of "Revelations" (originally made for the portable 3DS) is a pleasant surprise. It's actually a better RE game than the much bigger "Resident Evil 6". Chronologically, this entry occurs between the events of 5 and 6. And it features both Jill Valentine and Chris Redfield who made their first appearances in the very first "Resident Evil" game. However, there are no zombies in "Revelations"; just disgustingly designed creatures than can be a real headache to kill. The great thing about "Revelations" is its "back to basics" approach. While there are action-filled segments (and cutscenes), it plays more like a classic RE title. Another words, it's a slower-paced adventure with an emphasis on discovery and puzzle solving. The firearms you'll find can also be upgraded with parts scattered throughout the levels. The narrative of "Revelations" is also structured like a "Call of Duty" game with each level containing a different protagonist and setting. In addition to the campaign, "Revelations" also features an "arcade" mode which can be played solo or cooperatively online. An RPG-like take on the typical "Mercenaries" bonus game, the players can control numerous "Resident Evil" characters and power up their weapons and abilities to defeat the increasingly difficult enemies in over 20 levels. It's a lengthy and fun add-on that Capcom will probably evolve over the course of many new titles. In the end, "Resident Evil: Revelations" feels more like an original XBOX 360 title than a port of a portable game. It's a quality spin-off that ranks up with "Dead Space", "Resident Evil 5" and "Bioshock" when it comes to good horror games available on the 360 console.

The first game in the AC franchise was like a breath of fresh air when it was first released in November 2007. Created by Ubi Soft Montreal, the team responsible for the PS2/XBOX "Prince of Persia" trilogy, it was promoted as an open-world "Hitman"-type game set during the days of the Holy Crusades. But those who played it discovered it was really an action-adventure with a sci-fi twist. This first entry placed players into the shoes of Desmond Miles, a kidnapped bartender forced into entering the "Animus", a Matrix-like computer simulation. His goal is to access a lost memory that belonged to one of his ancestors. This memory contains the whereabouts to the "Apple of Eden", an object containing knowledge needed for world domination through "mind control". Desmond is caught between a centuries-old war between two ancient factions; the Assassins and the Templars. The latter have taken him captive. Unfortunately, the PS3 version of "Assassin's Creed" lacks Trophies and suffers from a bad framerate. There is also frequent screen-tearing that occurs. The gameplay itself can be become repetitive due to the very limited side-quests and the repetitive structure. In order to gain abilities and knowledge, Altair (Desmond's ancestor) must assassinate nine radical leaders who seem to be agents of evil. He is a tool throughout the game being kept in the dark from the truth. The sword fighting is interesting since it's not really a hack 'n slash affair, but it can get old quick. The same can be said for the optional objectives which sometimes must be completed in order to advance the story. In the end, the visuals and innovative parkour movements are more impressive than the gameplay itself. Overall, "Assassin's Creed" is a groundbreaking game that should be played by fans of action-adventures. It's not a masterpiece in any way, but the graphics, story and combat/parkour are all good. You may not play it through twice, but you'll probably be impressed with some of it. The XBOX 360 has a higher resolution, solid framerate and contains Achievements. For that, I'd rate it with a 7.7. The PS3 is more of a 7.5 because of its technical issues.

"The Force Unleashed" is a mix of frustration and fun. Hayden Blackman's hack n' slash creation bridges both the original and prequel trilogies together with a good story that is no longer considered canon (since Disney bought Lucasfilm). In it, Darth Vader assigns his secret apprentice (codenamed Starkiller) to hunt down the last remaining Jedi in the universe. The game's excellent presentation and cutscenes are mostly based off George Lucas' beloved original trilogy with a few nods to the prequels. It's got a few surprises and an ending that mirrors the conclusion to "Return of the Jedi". As far as the gameplay is concerned, it plays a lot like "God of War" only much clunkier. The targeting system isn't as smooth as it needs to be and the player will suffer plenty of cheap deaths because of it. Despite this, unleashing havoc with the force and a lightsaber is fun despite the repetitive nature of the battles. Boss fights are particularly terrible with the Star Destroyer segment being downright awful. It's these moments that make the game a slog to play through at times. And pointless QTEs also rear their ugly on occasion. But overall, "The Force Unleashed" is still a worthy "Star Wars" game due to its combination **** story, excellent presentation and satisfying action. With four difficulty levels, optional challenges, secondary objectives and plenty of collectibles scattered throughout each level, it's a game worth playing through twice.

"Star Wars: Battlefront", DICE's revival of Pandemic's online shooter, is similar to their own "Battlefield" franchise in terms of both structure and gameplay. The best thing I can say about it is how faithfully it re-creates the famed battles from the original "Star Wars" trilogy. The game's presentation captures both the look and feel of the classic movies with its stunning graphics, iconic sound effects and John Williams' legendary score. While "Battlefront" does not contain a campaign, it does include numerous maps and modes that can be enjoyed both online and off. However, compared to the "Battlefield" games, it is lacking in depth. There are numerous weapons, gadgets and abilities to unlock, but nowhere as much as you'd find in any other comparable shooter. However, if you're a fan of both "Battlefield" and "Star Wars", you'll certainly enjoy "Battlefront". The game includes 14 maps, 10 multiplayer modes, 5 tutorial missions and two single player modes which can be played with a partner. But it must be said that not all are on equal footing when it comes to enjoyment. "Supremacy" and "Walker Assault" are 40 player matches and are the best modes the game has to offer. Aerial combat can be found in "Flight Squadron" and melee combat is exclusive to the two "Hero" modes which feature three heroes from the good side and bad. "Droid Run" and "Conquest" has you protecting an area of the map from the opposing team. And "Battles" is basically "Kill Confirmed" from "Call of Duty" (you must pick up icons left by dead adversaries to score). Lastly, "Survival" is a horde mode where you must survive 15 rounds of Imperial attacks. Additionally, the game includes mini-challenges that unlock artwork when completed and you can also purchase various skins as you earn currency. DICE has made the announcement that free maps and modes will appear throughout the year, so even if you haven't bought the Season Pass, there are some add-ons to look forward to. In the end, "Star Wars: Battlefront" is a good addition to the "Star Wars" universe. It celebrates the original trilogy very much like "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" and is more enjoyable than the uneven "Force Unleashed" games. So if you're a fan of DICE, "Star Wars" and FPS game in general, then you'll certainly enjoy it. 7.8 out of 10

"Call of Duty: Black Ops III" is the biggest game in the series, if not the best. In fact, it's nowhere near being the best and fans of the previous BLOPS will be disappointed that it isn't a conclusion to the Alex Mason story. It is, however, loaded to the gills with plenty of content and most of it is fun. This third "Black Ops" game doesn't resemble its Cold War-set predecessors or even the Michael Bay-influenced "Modern Warfare" games. Instead, it is a bleak and violent cyberpunk adventure that blends elements of "Ghost In the Shell" with "Deux Ex" and "Metal Gear Solid 4". Adult anime is an obvious influence. Story-wise, this is a flash forward to the dark future hinted in "Black Ops II". With a convoluted story and a bizarre ending, "Black Ops III" is the "Bioshock Infinite" of the franchise except without the subtlety. Graphically violent and dark to the extreme, the campaign of will be remembered for its ambitions, if not for its storytelling. I also noticed that memorable scripted events are scarce in this latest entry. The franchise's trademark of Hollywood-like setpieces is still present, but you'll most likely remember the endless shootouts with drones and robots. It can get a little boring, even with fellow players. The campaign can be played with four others, but it is easily one of Treyarch's worst despite the addition of "Bioshock"-like powers. While the story mode is distinguished with its graphic content and future setting, the multiplayer stays true to the COD online formula with a few changes. Call it the "Destiny" influence, but Activision seems to have placed some elements of their newest IP into "Black Ops III". Multiplayer now includes 8 different classes of soldiers each with their own special attacks and abilities. Also, you can now purchase chests from a "Gunsmith" with "Cryptocoins" (a form of currency earned). These chests include Common and Rare weapons, skins, attachments and various goodies. Of course, Treyarch's "Zombies" has returned and is now spread into three different modes; "Shadow of Evil" (an evolution of past Zombie maps), "Dead Ops II" (a retro 2D shooter) and "Nightmare" (a remixed campaign featuring zombies). Treyarch has also included a few "Mirror's Edge"-inspired race challenges and a combat training arena that recalls the VR missions from "Metal Gear Solid". Overall, "Black Ops III" is a monster when it comes to content. It's an even more ambitious game than the surprisingly good "Advanced Warfare". But with a bad narrative, an okay campaign and a pointless split-screen option (the graphics resemble a PS3 game), it's not as good as it could've been. However, multiplayer is still strong, "Shadow of Evil" is a blast to figure out and "Nightmares" (while not perfect) is fun to play. I'd rank this latest COD with an 8.5 out of 10.

"Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six: Siege" may not be the best entry in the series, but it's a nice change of pace from the popular run 'n gun shooters that dominate the market. The subtitle "Siege" is revealing since this game is all about raiding a building in order to save a hostage or disarm a bomb. The 5 player vs. 5 player modes consist of 5 rounds each with teams alternating between defending and attacking the bomb/hostage. Before each round, the defenders barricade the windows, walls, floors and ceilings, while the attackers recon the area with mini-drones. The team who wins three out of five are the victors. There are no respawns, so rounds are brief and the combat is normally in close-quarters. But if you wish to practice before taking on real life opponents, you can play Terrorist Hunt which can be played solo or cooperatively with three others. In it, you must take down a number of A.I. controlled soldiers and save a hostage or disarm a bomb. Of course with "Siege" being a Tom Clancy game, there are plenty of tactics and cool gadgets that can be used. The game features five reality-based counter terrorist units; each having four "operators" (special classes) which must be unlocked with points you earn as you level up. In "Situations", a single player tutorial mode, you can "preview" the operator's special abilities while taking on the enemy A.I. Every firearm can be customized, but not extensively like in "Call of Duty". Unfortunately, you cannot customize your soldier in any way. Overall, "Rainbow Six: Siege" is a fun tactical shooter, but like "Star Wars: Battlefront", it does not include a campaign and is pretty light on content. With only three competitive modes, 11 maps and Terrorist Hunt, it can get repetitive. Thankfully, Ubi Soft will constantly update it with free maps and if you own the XBOX One version, you get the two "Vegas" games for free. While "Siege" isn't as good as either "Vegas" game, or even the classic XBOX game "Rainbow Six 3", it does provide plenty of tense matches. The destructible barricades, walls, floors and ceilings can turn the tide of many battles and they help distinguish "Siege" from previous games in the franchise. Graphically, there is much to be desired. But while the game may not be much of a visual stunner, the unique gameplay makes up for it. Long time fans of Tom Clancy video games should enjoy it.

"Mad Max" is set in the same universe as the great "Mad Max: Fury Road". That was a surprise to me. Another surprise is that it's better than most critics would have you think it is. The gameplay is similar to both "Shadow of Mordor" and "Batman: Arkham Knight" which also bear the Warner Bros. label. "Mad Max" isn't as good as either of those acclaimed titles, but it's a solid video game debut for the titular character. Avalanche Studios, developer of "Just Cause 2", have created an open-world with plenty to discover and do. While the post-apocalyptic wasteland isn't very interesting, the game itself is never boring due to the various missions, side-activities, collectibles, customization options and numerous upgrades you can purchase. The game features a melee combat system similar to "Shadow" and "Batman", but with a more sluggish feel. Punches, kicks and weapon swings seem to have more weight than in those previous games. As Max, you'll spend plenty of time collecting scrap, filling up your water canteen and finding photos of the past. It's very much in the vein of Sony's "The Last of Us". In addition to upgrading your own car, the Magnum Opus, you can also collect plenty of vehicles be either stealing them or building them up. Max can also be upgraded in many ways and taking out the various outposts is always fun since they can be tackled in a few different ways. Releasing air-balloons (which adds activities to the map) never does get tiresome due to the various puzzle-like challenges. Overall, "Mad Max" isn't a revolutionary game by any means. It doesn't evolve the genre in any big way and it can get repetitive after awhile. But if loved the summer's "Mad Max: Fury Road" and "Batman: Arkham Knight", then you'll have a good time with this one. 7.5 out of 10.

"Sleeping Dogs: Definitive Edition" for the XBOX ONE is a visually enhanced port of the last-gen game complete with all the post-launch DLC including two story missions. "Dogs" started out as an entry in the "True Crime" series and its roots show despite the name change. This is an open-world action title that pulls much of its inspiration from the classic Asian film "Infernal Affairs" and Rockstar's "Grand Theft Auto" franchise. So if you're a fan of police thrillers, GTA and martial-art flicks, you'll certainly have a good time with this one. I played "Sleeping Dogs" on XBOX 360 and immediately noticed the upgraded graphics. A higher resolution, more detailed character models, new fog effects, a better draw distance, less bugs and more NPCs make the game a better experience, at least visually. Story wise, you play as Wei Shen, an undercover cop who is a veteran of the mean streets of Hong Kong. He is given the task of bringing down the Triad gangs. Wei can use guns, but his main weapons is his fists and feet. The game gives you all the usual side-missions in addition to the main story assignments. You'll be able to participate in street races, fight clubs, gambling, martial-art challenges as well as hacking and various cop activities. There's also an island that you can visit that is a direct homage to "Enter the Dragon" (with its 70's import movie presentation). Of course, there are also plenty of scattered icons you can track down for bonus upgrades. The Hong Kong setting and cop story is what makes "Sleeping Dogs" really stand out from the rest of the GTA clone pack. The city layout may not be a work of art like Los Santos was in "Grand Theft Auto V", but it's fun to navigate through. Despite its derivative nature, "Dogs" gets plenty right in terms of both story and action. It may not be a next-gen experience, but you should find plenty of value in this definitive version of the game if you're into GTA-like titles. 7.8 out of 10.

The best thing of MCC is that it contains the 10th anniversary edition of "Halo 2" as well as graphically updated versions of "Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary", "Halo 3" and "Halo 4". A visually enhanced "Halo 3: ODST" was also added to it months after launch. The fact that every map and mode ever made for the franchise are available to play online is also great. Add the Forge tools, developer videos and the "Halo: Nightfall" series and you have a title that should be in every XBOX ONE owner's collection. Sadly, the game had many issues with matchmaking and other online issues that made the multiplayer portion almost unplayable. 343 Industries had to continually update the game for months before it seemed to improve. Despite the gargantuan amount of content available on one disc, these technical problems keep it from being a truly great compilation. Without them, I would easily rank "Halo: The Master Chief Collection" with a 9 or even higher. With them, I'd have to rank the game with an 8.5 out of 10 because quality counts just as much as quantity.

"Sunset Overdrive" for the XBOX ONE plays like a cross between "Jet Grind Radio" and "Ratchet and Clank". It's a third-person shooter that takes the zombie formula and gives it a fast-paced shot in the arm. The game is a visual tour de force with its very colorful, cartoony look and silky smooth animation. Unfortunately, its profane dialogue and crass adult humor doesn't mesh well with the family-friendly presentation. Still, it is a lot of fun once you master the multiple moves that your fully customizable character can perform. The design of the city is truly a work of art and traversing it is half the fun as you grind and bounce your way to destinations throughout the map. There are hordes of various zombies in "Sunset Overdrive" and if you attempt to walk on the street level, you'll be killed in no time at all. In this game, you must be constantly moving on the rooftops, rails and power lines of the city. The story is simple; the city has been overrun zombies (due to a new popular soda containing a virus) and you meet characters who will help you escape in return for favors. The "Rachet and Clank"- type weapons are great and the customizable clothing is on par with a Tony Hawk or SSX game. In addition to the story, you can try to earn medals in challenges scattered throughout the city or compete with 3 other players in "Chaos Mode" which also encourages teamwork. "Sunset Overdrive" is the XBOX ONE what "Dead Rising" was to the XBOX 360, a terrific zombie game that showcases the capabilities of the console. Like other open-world action games, some of it can get a bit repetitive, but overall, the game is great fun. 8.4 out of 10.

"Far Cry 4" is basically "Far Cry 3.5". That can either be good or disappointing news. Ubi Soft's open-world franchise didn't really hit it big with critics or gamers until "Far Cry 3" which gave the beloved "Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood" a run for its money. So the studio decided to replicate its success by almost remaking the game for next-gen consoles. Make no mistake, "Far Cry 4" on XBOX ONE is a gorgeous looking video game and it boasts some truly impressive effects while maintaining a steady 30 FPS. But if you wanted something vastly different from its predecessor, than you'll probably consider FC 4 to be a moderate success. Unlike "Far Cry 3", this sequel is less about story and more about the open-world experience. The map is huge and there are plenty of missions to undertake. The campaign and side-missions are single player experiences, but you can wreak havoc and take down outposts with a buddy. The story itself is only okay; a b-movie with the usual Hollywood-like setpieces. FC 4 also features a map editor and multiplayer modes if you're into competitive gaming. Overall, "Far Cry 4" is a good game. It's not quite as satisfying as "Far Cry 3", but fans should enjoy the ride. 8.5 out of 10

Visceral's "Battlefield: Hardline" differentiates itself from past entries by giving the formula a cops-and-crooks twist. That being said, the game is inferior to past entries which were developed by DICE, the series' creator. Both the single-player and multiplayer modes are lacking in innovation and doesn't evolve the franchise in any major way. The game's intentionally cheesy campaign takes on the form of a television cop show. It is divided into ten chapters, all presented as an episode complete with recaps and previews. Although set in the present day, "Hardline" is an homage to 80's TV cop shows such as "Miami Vice". The gameplay, which borrows a little from "Far Cry 3", is more stealth-based than previous entries. You'll spend plenty of time luring crooks with bullet casings so you can arrest them. However, there are plenty of gunfights and "Call of Duty"-like stunts. Online, the game's pace has been increased with smaller maps and less vehicles. The "cops-and-robbers" matches Heist, Blood Money and Hotwire are faster-paced variants on previous online modes; they offer an almost arcade-style feel. Additionally, the new tools such as grappling hooks, ziplines and tazers keep the experience fresh. Cops and crooks are assigned their own military-grade weapons and gadgets. "Hardline" is ultimately a fun game to play online, but fans of the series will probably be disappointed with the lack of large scale battles. After "Battlefield 4", everything seems a little too streamlined. 7.5 out of 10.

The bungled launch of "Assassin's Creed: Unity" was a rather unfortunate event for Ubi Soft. The first entry in the series exclusively made for next-gen consoles was filled with plenty of bugs and featured a poor framerate on Day One. The game was simply not finished and had to be fixed with a major sized update (6 gigs) several months later. On top of the embarrassingly bad technical issues, "Unity" was also bit of a mess when it came to the map itself which was cluttered with the usual missions seen in previous AC games. After the great and glorious pirate-themed "Black Flag", this is a sequel that pales in comparison due to its restraint and more modest mission design. Yes, "Unity" can be seen as a throwback to the first two games in the series, but it also lacks a great story and well...great gameplay. The new cooperative missions (which there are plenty of) are suppose to be played out with strategy and stealth, but they usually end up as hack 'n slash affairs if you are playing with strangers. There are plenty of beautiful sights to see in "Unity" and the gameplay is decently entertaining, but it doesn't evolve the series in any major way. The game's clunky movement controls and frustrating "trial and error" missions will probably cause some player to quit early. But if you're a die-hard AC fan, you'll most likely do explore everything the game has to offer. Just don't expect a masterpiece. 7.2 out of 10.

Monolith's "Shadow of Mordor" combines the open-world adventure of "Assassin's Creed" with the combat system of the "Batman: Arkham" games. It even borrows a little from "Far Cry 3" in terms of the wildlife. But the feature that makes "Shadow" a classic is the Nemesis system which will probably be copied for many years to come. The game places you in the footsteps of Ranger named Talion, whose family is ritually sacrificed by The Black Hand of Sauron. Talion seeks revenge gaining Wraith-like abilities from an Elf Lord of the past. While on his mission, he crosses path with Gollum who is seeking one of the Power Rings made by the elves. This prequel of LOTR packs in lots of bloody action with some stealth segments, and while it can get a tad bit repetitive, it's still a lot of fun. Along with the usual side-quests, optional challenges and scattered icons, "Mordor" also includes the Nemesis System which can be used to distribute power through the ranks of the Orc armies by strategically engaging enemies or interrupting their duels. You'll also constantly run into Orc Captains who you'll either kill or be killed by. Every time you die, their power increases making the game increasingly difficult. Like in plenty of other modern action titles, you'll gain different combat abilities as you progress which helps keep the action fresh. The engaging cutscenes, solid graphics and strong voice acting add to the cinematic flair. Overall, "Shadow of Mordor" is a solid actioner and will certainly please fans of the franchise. 8.4 out of 10.

At this point, the "Call of Duty" formula is familiar. No matter how good the games are, quality doesn't equal innovation. With that being said, Sledgehammer's "Advanced Warfare" is an improvement over the very basic "Ghosts" which was made by Infinity Ward, the series' creator. The PS4/XBOX ONE version of AW is a visual stunner that runs at the usual 60 FPS. It's the futuristic gadgets and Kevin Spacey that make this COD stand out. The story is Tom Clancy-lite with Spacey's villain taking center stage. He plays Jonathan Irons, an evil C.E.O. who provides private military contractors with advanced warfare technology. In the end, Irons is just another Bond-like bad guy who wants to profit from world war, but Spacey brings class to the role. The thrilling gadgets featured in the campaign include the sticky gloves that Tom Cruise used in "Mission Impossible", thermal vision grenades, exo-skeletons, mechs and mobile heat-seeking missile launchers. It's all very cool, yet familiar thanks to the obligatory scripted events. The exo-skeletons are used in multiplayer which gives it a faster-pace and the new modes are enjoyable. However, the new cooperative survival mode is not as good as the one featured in "Modern Warfare 3". It supports four players and maps can be unlocked by replaying levels, but it quickly becomes tiring due to boring mini-challenges and limited enemy types. I bought the first DLC pack and the new zombies map is a very basic one; a throwback to the zombies found in the original "Black Ops". Overall, the game is solid one, but not a very groundbreaking one. This isn't the masterpiece of "Modern Warfare" nor is it the vanilla "Ghosts". It's good, but the peak of the series has already past. 8.4 out of 10.

"Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon" is an homage/parody of 80's Hollywood sci-fi flicks. Everything from "The Terminator" to "Robocop" are referenced throughout in a tongue-in-cheek way. There are even jabs at non sci-fi movies from the era such as Stallone's "Cobra". The synthesizer soundtrack, VHS-style "tracking" bar and the title's font all combine to make a direct throwback to the "Decade of Excess". You play as Rex Colt (voiced by Michael "Kyle Reese" Biehn), a cyborg soldier who is recruited to take down his former superior who is now a rogue Colonel that wants to destroy the world. The game plays just like "Far Cry 3" but with a short campaign, only three different side-missions and only one vehicle to mount. Oh, and the blood dragons, which can be avoided or used as allies. You can hunt animals, rescue captured scientists, take down outposts or find three types of collectibles (VHS tapes, TV's and Letters). However, there are is no skill tree in "Blood Dragon". You earn experience points as you progress in the game which automatically levels you up. This stand alone DLC is about $5 too much (it costs 15 dollars), but it is a lot of fun, especially if you're a child of the 80's. So if you like "Far Cry 3" and 80's Hollywood action flicks as well as their cheap knock offs, then "Blood Dragon" should belong in your library.

"Resident Evil 5" adds two-player co-op to the formula established in RE 4. It is a nice companion piece to the GameCube classic, but it's no masterpiece. The game is too similar to its predecessor to stand up on its own. Yes, the scenario is different (it takes place in sun-drenched Africa, not Gothic Spain) and it does feature Chris Redfield instead of Leon S. Kennedy as the protagonist, but the gameplay is almost exactly the same. Graphically, the graphics are exceptional (RE 5 was made for X360/PS3), the story is good and there are plenty of exciting setpieces. There are also numerous unlockables that encourages replay. Fans of co-op should be pleased too, although the controls aren't ideal for helping a buddy out during frantic moments. This is a fun action game to play with a friend; one that puts "Army of Two" to shame. However, as a follow-up to one of the greatest games ever, it is quite underwhelming. Overall, it just feels like RE 4 with a cooperative feature tacked on. And while that's nothing to write off, I only wish the makers would've tried harder to make something even more compelling. As it is, "Resident Evil 5" is good, but not great.

Has there ever been a title more redundant than "Medal of Honor: Warfighter"? I would be the first to say no. Surprisingly, "warfighter" is an actual term which pertains to any person responsible for making decisions which results in the use of military force. Could've fooled me. Anywho, MOH: Warfighter is a direct sequel to the 2010 reboot of the once-popular series. With that release, developers Danger Close and DICE (of "Battlefield" fame) had summoned a predictable first-person shooter in the vein of "Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare". Unfortuantely, it had none of the panache of Infinity Ward's superior product. But the game was a surprise hit and EA Games began to develop a sequel. The result is this by-the-numbers shooter which still plays much like "Call of Duty". Thankfully, it is a better effort than the 2010 game. Danger Close developed both the campaign and multiplayer online modes for "Warfighter", and while the game still isn't great, it's a decent one. If you played the first game, than you'll certainly notice the increase in quality. While the campaign plays much like any other COD game, it's got two great vehicle segments. And the enemy A.I. isn't as dumb as it was in the 2010 offering. The gimmick of breaching doors is overused and pointless and the cinematic segments may be yawn-inducing for some. But I found the campaign to be mildly entertaining. It's only six hours long and a second playthrough isn't justified, but it's fun (for the most part) and tells a decent story. Multiplayer has also been improved. It's been extensively expanded upon which is good since the 2010 title included only a bare-bones version of "Battlefield". The online game still feels more like BF than COD minus the vehicles and good graphics, but fans of the genre could do worse. There are six modes and six differerent character classes which help bring some nice variety to the matches. Also, the gun customization options are fun to play with. However, the sound effects of the weapons are much more dynamic in DICE's games and the lack of innovation will disappoint some. Overall, this title is worth about half of its initial price (maybe even a little less). EA Games recently cancelled the series which maybe a good thing. But if you're bored of "Black Ops II" and can't wait until "Battlefield 4" shows up, than "Warfighter" is a decent way to kill a few hours.

The XBOX revival of "Ninja Gaiden" was the best action game of 2004. It was re-released a year later with additional content as "Ninja Gaiden Black". Unfortunately, for the Sony faithful, the PlayStation 2 never received a port. But the PS3 did with this enhanced version of it. "Sigma" introduced reworked level design, new enemies, exclusive weapons, and additional stages with an extra playable character, a buxom blonde armed with huge, um...weapons. This sleek action ninja game is similar to "Devil May Cry" with its fast, stylish action and extreme difficulty. Structurally, it is divided up into 19 levels that can take an hour or more to complete. The plot involves super ninja Ryu Hayabusa's efforts to take down the Black Spider Ninja Clan after they attack and decimiate his village. Eventually, the hero discovers their plot to conquer the world. Story-wise, it is a simple comic book, but while the game's mechanics are quite dated, this is still a standout title. Unlike the recent "Ninja Gaiden 3", it is more than a mere hack 'n slash. Defensive tactics and well-played offensive moves are keys to survival. And if you attempt to play it in a slightly casual manner, your ass will continously be handed to you. The game also contains light platforming and puzzle segments. Additionally, there is some backtracking that occurs. As tough as it may be, "Ninja Gaiden Sigma" is actually easier than the XBOX versions! It also simplifies a few of the puzzles, but the new combat tactics (firing a bow in mid-air, fighting on water!) are a nice addition. While I wouldn't say that "Sigma" is a better game than the original XBOX release, I would say that it is a port worth playing. So if you played and loved both "God of War" and "Devil May Cry", but haven't tried out "Ninja Gaiden Sigma", than do yourself a favor and pick up a copy!

Namco's "Dead to Rights" is one of the great goofy games. A spoof of "Max Payne" and an homage to Hong Kong action flicks, it's a brisk thrill ride that never ceases to entertain. The game is mostly a third-person shooter, but cop Jack Slate (the hero of DTR) is a man of many talents, so the action isn't just restricted to gunfights. In this 12 hour adventure, Jack disarms bombs, extinguishes fires, brawls bad guys and executes enemies at point blank range. Even his dog, Shadow, gets in on the action. The story is pure pulp (Jack is framed for his father's murder, discovers conspiracy to steal gold), but the gameplay is solid despite some repetitive (and gimmicky) spots. DTR isn't a very innovative action game. It's not a very good looking one either, but fans of the genre should be pleased with it. If you like your gunslinging mixed with a variety of heroic tasks, then "Dead to Rights" is for you. 7.5 out of 10.

"Castlevania: Lords of Shadow" stands alongside "Resident Evil 4" as one of the best video game rehauls in recent memory. An epic action-adventure, "Lords of Shadow" properly updates the series with a modern style of gameplay while staying true to its roots. To say it is deriative of other present day action games is missing the point. Acclaimed titles such as "God of War" and "Devil May Cry" borrowed ideas from the original "Castlevania". This is simply a "Castlevania" for the modern day era. Spanish game developer Mercury Steam produced it with the help of Hideo Kojima, the director of the "Metal Gear Solid" series. Indeed, Kojima's influence on the production can be felt throughout. Call it the MGS syndrome, but there's just a sprinkle of that series' flavor in this latest entry of "Castlevania". In this 20+ hour adventure, players are cast in the role of Gabriel Belmont, a holy knight who is dispatched to Southern Europe to protect the innocent from the rise of a dark spell. Gabriel is also haunted by the spirit of his late wife, Maria, who guides him on his destiny. Eventually, he is joined by an elder knight and the two attempt to put a stop the end of the world. The world of "Lords of Shadow" is divided into chapters with an evaluation given at the end of each level. It features a rousing musical score indebted to big-budget motion pictures and a terrific cast of actors that deliver solid vocal performances. The gameplay is a mixture of action, adventure, platforming and puzzle solving. It's similar to "God of War", but also carries its own unique tone. Graphically, it is quite detailed and colorful with a solid framerate. And the tight controls help make the numerous combat moves a cinch to perform. "Lords of Shadow" is an amazing game and fans of the series should be pleased with this epic installment. 8.5 out of 10.

"God of War" is a PS2 action-adventure game from the creator of "Twisted Metal Black". Based on Greek mythology, it tells the story of Kratos, a Spartan warrior in service of the Olympian Gods. As the game begins, he is tasked with one final assignment, the destruction of Ares, the God of War. The journey takes on a personal meaning for Kratos since Ares had tricked him into killing his own family. "God of War" starts with a highly-kinetic battle on a ship which acts as the opening tutorial level. Its action is comparable to "Devil May Cry" but it also features adventure elements and innovative on-screen button prompts. The involving story is mainly told through crisp, highly-detailed CGI cutscenes. Visually, the graphics and animation are impressive for a PS2 game. And the voice acting and Hollywood-esque musical score are superb. "God of War" proudly wears its 'M' rating on its shoulder. Its features nudity, sexual situations and graphic violence. Fans of fast-paced action and adventure will find much to enjoy in this first installment of the popular series. It's a terrific achievement and one of the PS2's best exclusives. 9.5 out of 10

EA's "Army of Two" is like a poor man's "Gears of War". While it looks gritty and great, the final product is anything but. It's more like a cheesy satire of Michael Bay movies with some good ideas that are poorly implemented. This game lacks the superb gameplay found in both "Gears of War" and Infinity Ward's "Call of Duty: Modern Warfare". At times, the campaign feels like an arcade-version of "Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six: Vegas". Two players can play it simultaneously as heroes Salem & Rios, but the wonky controls and poorly designed levels make "Army of Two" a sub-par affair. The "agro" system is just a cheap way of exploiting the terrible enemy A.I. and certain co-op moves can only be performed in certain parts of the game (making them sort of pointless). This short-lengthed actioner has some fun little moments, but it doesn't hold up against the best of the genre. Not even close.

"Gears of War" for the XBOX 360 is a groundbreaking masterpiece. Cliff Bleszinski's highly-acclaimed action game set a standard for third-person shooters. It joined David Jaffe's "God of War" and Shinji Mikami's "Resident Evil 4" as an innovative trend setter in the video game industry. A successor to the XBOX's "Halo" franchise, "Gears of War" pushed the 360's graphical capabilities to the extreme. Developed on the Unreal Engine (which also powered "Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory"), its animated characters and locations seemed to be the most visually detailed creations in a video game at the time. With its highly-kinetic action gameplay and cinematic visual grandeur, "Gears of War" existed on entirely different plane than other similar titles in '06. Its beefy protagonists Marcus Fenix and Dominic Santiago lead a band of brothers into battle to stop a massive alien army from invading the Earth. If there was ever a Hollywood action blockbuster made exclusively for video game consoles, this is it. This is an extremely satisfying shooter than almost feels like an interactive action movie at times. The "pop 'n stop" cover system works like a charm and the visceral gunfights deliver in a big way. "Gears of War" is a great and gritty game that all fans of action should try at least once. It's that good. 9.5 out of 10.

I wanted to like this game. I really did. The concept is extremely cool, but the execution is downright sloppy. "Operation Raccoon City" is like a blend of "Gears of War" and "Left 4 Dead". If only it played as good as either franchise. Unfortunately, the developers at Slant Six (PSP's SOCOM) managed to squeeze out only a fraction of fun with ORC. The game takes place during the events of "Resident Evil 2" but is told through the perspective of the bad guys. While a biohazard outbreak occurs in Raccoon City, a group of Umbrella operatives are sent into the "hot zone" to dispose evidence of the company's involvement. The team encounters cop Leon S. Kennedy , groups of Umbrella mercenaries and plenty of zombies along the way. Playing the campaign online is the best way to experience it since horrible friendly A.I. all but ruins the single player mode. Glitches and poor game design also hurt the campaign which has good moments, but is ultimately uninspired. The competitive modes aren't too interesting either and suffer from balance issues. "Raccoon City" isn't a total loss due to some good ideas and some decent moments, but it could've been a great co-op game. Too bad.

I never found Valve's "Left 4 Dead" to be a great game. Entertaining? Yes. Challenging? Yes. Innovative? To a certain point. But the overall product still lacked a certain panache. It was too limited and too restrictive as if the makers didn't have the time or money to deliver a full product. But just one year later, Valve released this sequel which didn't suffer from the same limitations. By making a few minor adjustments and adding some much needed content, the company had created one of the great XBOX Live experiences. "Left 4 Dead 2" may be just a team-based arcade-like shooter, but it is a great one. In fact, it may be the best zombie game I've ever played. The brilliantly conceived cooperative and competitive modes are both fast-paced and intense and require strong team efforts to win. Versus is the best mode, in which two teams of four (survivors vs. zombies) are pitted against each other within a campaign chapter. L4D 2 also features Realism mode which amps up the campaign's difficulty, a horde mode (Survival) and Scavenger, a take on Capture the Flag. "Left 4 Dead 2" is a great tactical game with fun characters, plenty of gore and a nice variety of weapons. It's one of 2009's best games. 9.5 out of 10

Capcom's comical cousin to their "Resident Evil" series is better the second time around. This is a much improved sequel to the original 2006 surprise hit. The premise is still the same (kill zombies and complete tasks within a limited time), but the execution is much better. The idiotic A.I. and frustrating save system of the first game have been removed, while two player co-op and weapon combos have been added. The result is a more robust (and fun) zombie killing experience. This is a colorful sequel that sports a new location and a new protagonist. In DR 2, the burly photo journalist Frank West is nowhere to be seen. Instead, players take control of Chuck Greene, a former motorcross champion who drives into a Nevada casino town. His daughter, Katie, is in need of a temporary zombie cure called Zombrex. Chuck spends the entire game trying to keep her alive while helping a sexy reporter expose a conspiracy. The game features a few online mini-games that help Chuck earn money, but they're not too interesting. It's the main game that is an absolute blast to play. The weapon combos are great and playing with a partner can be good fun. So if you like zombie games, then you'll love this one. 8.5 out of 10.

"Alan Wake" is a psychological horror game from the makers of "Max Payne". Storywise, it is a blend of Stephen King novels and TV's "Twin Peaks". But the gameplay and overall look recalls the video game "Silent Hill". Made exclusively for the XBOX 360, it features a good twisty story that's presented much like a TV show. Before a new "episode" begins, there is a brief recap of previous story events. The presentation is a gimmick but it's done well enough. The developers at Remedy Entertainment have produced an extremely polished game with "Alan Wake", but it's too bad that it never reaches its true potential. Unfortunately, repetitive tasks robs the game of much needed tension. Its spooky to be sure, but once Alan has turned on a light source for the umpteenth time, it becomes obvious the makers focused more on the story than gameplay. In that regard, the company's "Max Payne" and its first sequel are more satisfying experiences. But despite its shortcomings, "Alan Wake" is still a trip worth taking. It may not be a great XBOX exclusive, but it's good enough to play through at least once. 8.5 out of 10.

"Batman: Arkham Asylum" is the first video game that does justice to Bob Kane's iconic character. Developed by Rocksteady Studios ("Urban Chaos: Riot Response"), it is a third-person action-adventure comparable to "Bioshock". In the game, players take the role of Batman as he tries to prevent the Joker from creating an army of super-powered creatures within the asylum. Written by Paul Dini and featuring the voices of Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill, it is a dark follow-up to their children's cartoon "Batman: The Animated Series". Powered by the Unreal Engine, "Arkham" features jaw-dropping graphics that bring the characters and locations to vivid life. It also includes an innovative combat system that is simple, yet challenging to master. The game incorporates stealth segments, puzzle solving and boss battles. In a sense, it feels very much like a Batman "simulator" since it touches upon everything that makes up the character of The Dark Knight. Fans of "Metroid" and other similar games will feel at ease with the structure and flow of this interactive adventure. It constantly rewards progression with upgrades and new tools of the trade. Those who loved the Christopher Nolan "Batman" films will certainly find this Dark Knight installment to be equally exciting. It is one of the great Batman properties and one of the best video games of 2009. 9.5 out of 10.

"Bioshock" can easily be called a masterpiece. Developed by Ken Levine's Irrational Games, it simply is one of the greatest video games ever made. To describe it as a sci-fi first-person shooter is to immensely shortchange it. This is a work of astounding visual beauty and classic storytelling that transcends the boundaries set by the genre. "Bioshock" is set post World War II in an underwater utopian city known as Rapture. Founded by a radical idealist named Andrew Ryan, it is a place where people live free of "questionable" government rules and regulations. As the game opens, players are placed in the footsteps of Jack, an "everyman" who finds himself in Rapture after his plane goes down somewhere over the Atlantic Ocean. Unfortunately, Jack discovers that Rapture is no longer a paradise but a living hell. It is overrun by crazed "splicers", citizens of Rapture that had their DNA altered. Guided by Atlas, a mystery man who speaks through a speaker, Jack discovers the dark truth of Rapture. The game has first-person shooter mechanics but also incorporates mini-puzzle and adventure elements. It carries an art-deco look but the tone is pure Grand Guignol. At its center, "Bioshock" is a survival horror game. And it's an intelligent one since it presents ideologies that were first introduced by Ayn Rand, a popular Russian-American philosopher. In my mind, "Bioshock" is a true work of art. It's a great entertainment.

"Dead Space" plays like a cross between "Resident Evil 4" and "Bioshock". It has a similar look to "Doom 3" but it also borrows from the sci fi horror films "Alien" and "Event Horizon". This is an incredibly scary game that fans of "Gears of War" will appreciate due to its gory action. In "Dead Space", players are cast as spaceship engineer Isaac Clarke, an "everyman" who is forced to play hero when all hell breaks loose. The game begins when Clarke's ship arrives at the location of a distress signal sent by a mining vessel named the USG Ishimura. Due to a guidance system malfunction, the rescue ship crash lands into the Ishimura dock. Shortly after, grotesque creatures composed of human body parts appear and kill the entire crew except for Isaac, his commander and a computer specialist. With their ship out of commission, Isaac is asked by his fellow shipmates to help power the abandoned Ishimura. As he gathers and repairs parts, he discovers audio tapes that explain the appearance of the "Necromorphs". "Dead Space" is a survival horror game that conveys a sense of anxiety and dread in every segment. But it's also a highly-innovative third-person shooter with a heads-up display that appears as holograms on Isaac's spacesuit and weapons. While it's not as great as "Bioshock", "Dead Space" is still an excellent title. It's one of the scariest games you'll ever play.

Yes, this video game adapation of the classic poem plays like a "God of War" clone, but it's good fun and the production values are phenomenal. Made by Visceral Games (developers of "Dead Space"), "Dante's Inferno" is a visual triumph that should please fans of the horror genre. Extremely dark and over-the-top, it contains a few intense images that are quite freaky. The game takes liberties with the source material by making Dante a not-so-holy Christian knight during the time of the Crusades. After he returns to Italy, he discovers the dead body of his beloved wife Beatrice. She was murdered, but her soul lives on and is literally taken to hell. Determined to find her again, Dante plunges himself into the depths of hades to save her from Satan himself. As he embarks on the journey, he is tormented by his past sins and challenged by a variety of demonic creatures. The game borrows much from the "God of War" series including its engaging combat system. But what makes it really stand apart is the dark horror tone. While its nowhere as good as "Dead Space", "Dante's Inferno" proves that the developers at Visceral Games know horror. They have a knack for creating morbid and intense imagery. And as a fan of the genre, I was able to appreciate it despite its similarity to the superior "God of War".

With "Devil May Cry" (a superb action game), Capcom had caught lightning in a bottle. Unfortunately, that didn't happen twice with the release of a tepid sequel in 2003. So for the third installment, the developers went back to what made the original so great. In the process, they also went back in the timeline and made a prequel instead. "Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening" recalls the original game's style of play and tells the story of the hero's rise to prominence. It's also one of the toughest games Capcom has ever made. DMC 3 is an extremely polished action-adventure that features crazy combat and over-the-top, kinetic cutscenes. This is one of the PS2's best action offerings but the extreme difficulty will not appeal to casual gamers. The game offers four different combat styles to choose from at the beginning of each level. As you progress, you'll be able to power up Dante in a variety of ways while additional weapons become available. It's worth noting that "Devil May Cry 3" is more comparable to the XBOX version of "Ninja Gaiden" than the original DMC. This is due to the emphasis on hyper tough fights, similar boss battles and an extensive arsenal of weaponry. It's not as good as "Ninja Gaiden", but DMC 3 is a much better game than part 2. I'd also recommend the Special Edition which features Dante's brother, Virgil, as a playable character. "Dante's Awakening" is arguably the best installment in the series.

"Devil May Cry" is cited as one of the most influential video games of all time. Released 11 years ago, it marked the beginning of a sub-genre of action titles with an emphasis on fast-paced, stylized combat. Sony's "God of War" and Team Ninja's "Ninja Gaiden" are two games that borrowed much from DMC. Originally planned as a "Resident Evil" installment, "Devil May Cry" casts players as Dante, a demon hunter armed with a giant sword and twin-pistols. Approached by a mysterious woman named Trish, Dante accepts a job offer to prevent the return of the demon emperor Mundus. The game mainly takes place inside a Gothic castle filled with supernatural monsters and puzzle rooms. In that sense, DMC resembles a "Castlevania" game as well as "Resident Evil". But the extreme difficulty and fast, stylish action is what really sets it apart. This is a Capcom production that ranks up with "Mega Man", "Street Fighter II" and "Resident Evil" as one of the company's best games. A true classic.

"Lament of Innocence" marked the debut of the "Castlevania" franchise on the PS2. A console exclusive, it was released in Oct. 2003 to solid reviews. However, this entry (cleary inspired by "Devil May Cry") never reaches the heights of the PS1's "Symphony of the Night". It is a pure action game without the RPG aspects found in that classic side-scroller. "Lament" is a prequel to the original "Castlevania" and utilizes the 3D style of gameplay. Players control Leon Belmont, the first vampire hunter in the family clan to battle Dracula. The game itself features an involving story, tight controls, fluid animation and stunning graphics. It may not be a masterpiece like "Symphony" but it's smooth combat is a definite highlight. The monster designs, gothic locations and fantastic score are pure "Castlevania". The PS2 games "Devil May Cry" and "God of War" are better showcases of the system, but "Lament of Innocence" is still a gem.

"Symphony of the Night" is one of the very best action games on the PS1. It's a 2D side-scroller that plays just like "Metroid" but within the "Castlevania" universe. The game begins with the final segment of "Castlevania: Bloodlines" (Sega Genesis) as a setup for its own story. Unlike previous entries, the protagonist isn't a member of the Belmont clan, but a son of Dracula named Alucard. Players can equip weapons, armor and special-powered amulets to defeat the unholy creatures of Dracula's castle. Like "Metroid", "Night" is an RPG/adventure game that is filled with hidden rooms and areas that can only be explored by using special equipment. Like any RPG, you level up as you defeat enemies, pick up loot and can buy or sell items and weapons. The musical soundtrack is ever bit as phenomenal as critics say it is. And the graphics are truly impressive for a PS1 title. This is a game that fans of "Castlevania" and RPGs will find plenty of enjoyment in. It has plenty of depth due to its expansive adventure and numerous endings. It's also the series' best entry.

Hypnotic and haunting, "Silent Hill 2" represents the series at its very best. Players are cast in the role of James Sunderland, a widower who receives a cryptic letter from his late spouse, Mary. The letter instructs for him to go to their "special place" in Silent Hill. After he arrives, James meets a scared woman named Maria who physically resembles Mary. Together, they try to find the person who sent the letter. Meanwhile, the town of Silent Hill sinks into a literal darkness, while its inhabitants increasingly act in all sorts of bizarre manners. "Silent Hill 2" is not a direct sequel to the original game. It contains a new cast of characters and a completely different story. And thanks to the graphical capabilities of the PS2, it is a visual powerhouse. The stark lighting effects and photo-realistic textures will often startle you. Gameplay-wise, "Silent Hill 2" resembles the first game but it also includes a few obscure puzzles that will rattle your brain. As a whole, SH 2 is a mind-bender. This is a psychological horror game that is every bit as trippy as the 1990 genre film "Jacob's Ladder". While it might be too slow for some, "Silent Hill 2" rewards dedicated players with killer moments of mystery and suspense. And once again, Akira Yamaoka's stirring score compliments the unique asthetic of the game. "Silent Hill 2" is an artistic, one-of-a-kind horror game that is a must play for fans of the genre.

Creepy, offbeat and unsettling. "Silent Hill" is a trippy horror game that seems to be inspired by the works of H.P. Lovecraft and Clive Barker. It blends "Resident Evil"-type gameplay with a surreal, yet nightmarish atmosphere. The title refers to a town with a shady history. And the protagonist is Harry Mason, a writer who is driving through Silent Hill while on vacation with his daughter. After he awakens from a car accident, he finds that his daughter, Cheryl, is missing. As Harry searches for her, he meets a number of crazy characters including a female cop who assists him. The game is creepy to the extreme with its fog-covered town, off-kilter camera angles and unsettling sounds. Since this is a PS1 game, the graphics aren't as effective as they should be, but the bizarre imagery can be trippy. Also, the hauntingly beautiful score is what really enhances the strange tone. "Silent Hill" is one of the best horror games of the PlayStation 1. It involves the player with its mystery and solid action/adventure gameplay. A companion piece of sorts to the original "Resident Evil", SH is a must play for fans of interactive horror. 8.5 out of 10

"Silent Hill: Homecoming" is the least satisfying in the series. Developed by Double Helix Games (an American company), it lacks the unique and bizarre atmospheres of previous entries. As a result, this "Silent Hill" feels unimaginative and even flat at times. Yet, while it doesn't live up to the series' standards, the game still manages to deliver a few goose bumps. This is mainly due to the game's pacing and story elements. "Homecoming" has a strong premise and stays true to the original concept. That's why it ultimately works despite the clumsy combat and generic locations. The subtitle is a reference to the return of its protagonist, a war veteran named Alex Shephard. Alex has reoccuring nightmares of his younger brother in serious trouble. So he is absolutely horrified when he returns home only to discover that his brother is missing. Not only that, but the town itself (Shephard's Glen) seems to be plagued by a supernatural evil. As Alex searches for his missing sibling, the town around him changes in appearance much like it did in the 2006 "Silent Hill" movie. Pyramid Head from "Silent Hill 2" returns, but the rest of the creatures are rather tepid in appearance. This is an almost generic entry in terms of level and creature design. "Silent Hill: Homecoming" may not be a revolutionary title but I sort of liked it despite itself. Double Helix provides enough creepy stuff to satisfy horror fans. And Akira Yamaoka's haunting score enhances the tone brilliantly.

The pinnacle of the series. A masterpiece. The PS2 version of "Resident Evil 4" is one of the console's greatest games. Not just a simple port, Sony's cover of the GameCube classic includes exclusive weapons, costumes and Ada Wong missions. This is a revolutionary sequel that turned the series on its head by completely changing the format. An action game by heart, RE 4 still manages to churn out major scares with its extremely tense gameplay. In this installment, Leon S. Kennedy (of RE 2) has been charged with finding the President's missing daughter somewhere in Spain. He eventually discovers that the region has been overrun by people infected by a biological weapon known as Las Palagas. Much shooting ensues. "Resident Evil 4" is a brilliant game that marries the action genre with the survival horror aspect of the franchise. Released a year before "Gears of War", RE4 set the standard of third-person action games with its over-the-shoulder camera view and quick time events. The game itself is about a 20 hour adventure and not one minute is wasted with boring, mundane tasks. Brain-teasing puzzles of the series' past return and the action has been amped up completely. It's a great feeling to knock a zombie down by shooting at its knees only to line up a head shot. RE 4 offers plenty of various firearms, all which can be upgraded at scattered merchant shops. The GameCube version of "Resident Evil 4" might contain sharper visuals, but the PS2 version makes up for it with all of the extra content. It can almost be labeled as a "Director's Cut". This was probably the best game of 2005 and the PS2 arguably has the definitive version of it.

A stylish and demented torture porn flick. If "Manhunt 2" was a movie, it would've been described as such. It also would've been filmed by "Hostel" director Eli Roth. This sequel to the controversial "Manhunt" was not made by the original creators, and it shows. It feels very much like a budget title. A direct-to-video sequel, if you will. Nevertheless, the makers have stayed true to the original concept while making it even more revolting. In fact, Rockstar Games had to edit down the violence to earn an M rating. Having seen the uncut version, I can certainly agree with the original Adults Only rating. Like the original, this is a sick and twisted stealth game (with more guns) that pays homage to American horror flicks. While the first game referenced "The Most Dangerous Game", part II is a direct relative of "The Manchurian Candidate" and even pays tribute to Roth's "Hostel". Players use crossbows, hand guns and manhole covers to massacre the creepy gang members that stand in their way. Although not as good as the first, it still delivers sick entertainment like any low-budget slasher flick. 7.5 out of 10.

Disturbing, scary, graphically violent. Rockstar North's urban horror game is a tense and taut spin on "The Most Dangerous Game". Players control James Earle Cash, an inmate who is busted out of prison by The Director; a mystery man who sees your every move. Once Cash escapes the prison facility, his journey home becomes a literal fight for survival. Armed with bladed weapons and firearms, Cash uses both stealth and full-out assaults as to fight off the creepy gangs who are out to kill him. The macrbe twist is that The Director aids Cash through an earpiece throughout the game. He directs Cash to his final destination, ordering him to kill as gruesomely as possible every step of the way. The disturbing aspect of the game is that it rewards you for doing so. You are encouraged to perform the most graphic killings to unlock challenge rooms. In movie terms, "Manhunt" is "The Running Man" meets "The Warriors" with a touch of "8MM". Gameplay-wise, it is very similar to "Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell" and "Hitman 2". This game features shooting segments, but it's very much a stealth game. The horror atmosphere is extremely thick with a synth musical score straight out of an 80's slasher flick. In a sense, "Manhunt" is a survival game as much as it is an action title. In fact, you'll probably creep out when you first get spotted by a crazed gang member. Rockstar North made three great "Grand Theft Auto" games for the PS2. This game is nowhere as grandiose as those mammoth titles. But it is an efficient and effective actioner that is truly creepy. 8.5 out of 10.