Gears of War 2

Gears of War 2

Gears of War 2 builds on the success of the original game with more action, better visuals, tighter controls, and plenty of other improvements. Players once again take control of Marcus Fenix and battle against the scourge of the Locust Horde, but this time the levels open up more compared to the claustrophobic original. This results in plenty of scenes that are way more epic than anything in the original. As far as sequels go this is one of the best.

Gameplay: Action-packed, over the top, and filled with memorable set pieces.

Graphics: Better looking than the original thanks to much bigger and more open levels.

Sound: Great voice acting, sound effects, and music

Soulcalibur

Soulcalibur

It is really great to play SoulCalibur again, and the game is as fun as ever, but it also lacks some of the original Dreamcast content. The loss of mission mode, lack of online multiplayer and black bars on either side of the screen brings the score down a bit, but the gameplay is intact. SoulCalibur was one of the best weapon-based brawlers of the Dreamcast era and is still a nice addition to anyone’s library.

Gameplay: Still a great game even with the cut content.
Graphics: Holds up surprisingly apart from no support for widescreens.
Sound: The audio is still as chaotic as the original

Pure

Pure

Pure is a very underrated game which is a pity as it actually has some solid gameplay and plenty of adrenaline fueled races. You can fly through it if you are not interested in multi-player or achievements, but overall it is a good game.

Gameplay: Fast and frantic with some insane tricks.

Graphics: Detailed environments with stunning vistas and plenty of effects.

Sound: The sound effects are ok, but the voices can become a tad annoying

Alan Wake Special Two: The Writer

Alan Wake Special Two: The Writer

While it doesn’t wrap things up neatly, “The Writer” offers us another chance to experience the twisted world of Alan Wake. As far as DLC goes, this one has enough content to make it worthwhile, but don’t expect too many answers.

Gameplay: A little less combat, but that’s not a bad thing.

Graphics: Same engine obviously, but the twisted locations are great.

Sound: Solid as ever

Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance

Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance

Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance eschews stealth in favor of some over the top action. While Raiden can break out a cardboard box and sneak around like Snake, it is far more satisfying to slice enemies into bits using what has got to be the worlds sharpest sword. Unfortunately the game is rather short and the storyline not that gripping, but action fans should have a blast.

Gameplay: Action packed and completely over the top.

Graphics: Very nice, but the environments could have used some more variety.

Sound: Very fitting

Alan Wake Special One: The Signal

Alan Wake Special One: The Signal

If you plan on playing this DLC episode in order to get some answers you are in for a disappointment. Alan is still battling his inner demons and in this episode they are out in full force. There are some interesting new ideas but don’t expect too many revelations.

Gameplay: A lot more action packed than the main game.

Graphics: The same as the main game, but the locations are twisted around.

Sound: Still good

Portal 2

Portal 2

Portal 2 proves that sequels doesn’t have to be lazy cash-ins on the original game’s success. Everything in this game has been expanded and made better in some way and playing it is a blast. The humor and dialogue are spot on and the puzzles while not too complicated for veteran players still provide a few head scratching moments.

Gameplay: More story, more puzzles, more of everything.

Graphics: More detail and variety than the original game.

Sound: Outstanding voice acting all round

Tomb Raider: Legend

Tomb Raider: Legend

After seeing how the Tomb Raider franchise was milked dry and ran into the ground I was a bit hesitant to pick up Legend. Fortunately Crystal Dynamics did a great job capturing all the elements that made the series a blockbuster back in the day. Its not a very long adventure, but despite a few annoyances it is well worth checking out.

Gameplay: A welcome return to the roots of the series.

Graphics: Good but could have been much better if created from the ground up for the Xbox360.

Sound: Decent voice acting and a nice soundtrack

Resident Evil 5

Resident Evil 5

Resident Evil 5 ramps up the action and adds a partner into the mix, but the clunky controls really put a damper on the fun. The game is at its best when played in co-op but the single player experience can be a slog at times due to the dubious actions of your partner. If you are looking for scares then you can safely pass up on Resident Evil 5, but if you want a mindless shooter with some impressive set pieces then give it a try.

Gameplay: Action packed but the controls and the AI partner lets things down.

Graphics: Very nice, but some levels look much better than others.

Sound: Good but not exactly memorable

Project Gotham Racing 4

Project Gotham Racing 4

If you are looking for a fast paced racing game featuring some exotic cars (and bikes) then look no further than PGR4. The visuals are outstanding and there is enough content here to keep you playing for a long time. With a career mode as well as some arcade modes this is one racing game you won’t soon tire of.

Gameplay: Pure action packed racing done right.

Graphics: The rain is a visual standout, but the overall graphics are very good.

Sound: Very good sound effects and a soundtrack that should satisfy all tastes