Bioshock 2

Bioshock 2

A great sequel that makes a lot of improvements over the original but at times feels too much like an expansion pack rather than a full fledged title. It is still a blast to play and has some great insights into the world of Rapture but don’t expect the plot to be as mind blowing as the first. Things really pick up towards the end so stick with it.

Gameplay: All the tweaks and improvements you could ask for.

Graphics: Very nice but its clear to see that the PC version is being held back by the games console roots.

Sound: Atmospheric and moody

Deadpool

Deadpool

Fans of Deadpool will have a blast with this game but the humour should appeal to newcomers as well. High Moon Studios have captured the character perfectly although the gameplay can feel a bit clunky at times. While not without its flaws I had a blast playing this game and can recommend it to all fans of the merc with a mouth.

Gameplay: Packed with action and humour.

Graphics: Not the best I’ve seen but it does the license justice.

Sound: Superb voice acting by Nolan North coupled with a rocking soundtrack

Penumbra Overture

Penumbra Overture

Penumbra: Overture is an admirable attempt at something new and makes for a nice break from all the running and gunning in first-person perspective games. There are plenty of logical puzzles to work your way through and a hair-raising story that will have you hooked right to the end. The graphics are not exactly cutting-edge, and it’s not as scary as it tries to be, but overall, it’s a good game.

Gameplay: Penumbra: Overture is best experienced late at night with the sound up and the lights off.

Graphics: The visuals consist of lots and lots of brown.

Sound: The audio is pretty standard as far as creepiness is concerned

Abyss: The Wraiths of Eden

Abyss: The Wraiths of Eden

Abyss: Wraiths of Eden is yet another very enjoyable hidden object game from one of the best developers in the genre. The setting might not be that original, but looks great and makes for an interesting story. Since it is a relatively easy title, it is a good starting point for newcomers, but it is polished enough that even veterans will enjoy the experience.

Gameplay: Easy to complete but remains enjoyable throughout.

Graphics: The hand-drawn visuals look great, but the close-up character animations are not the best.

Sound: Nice music, but the voice acting could have been better

Batman: Arkham Asylum Game of the Year Edition

Batman: Arkham Asylum Game of the Year Edition

Batman: Arkham Asylum is as close to perfection as I have ever seen a game based upon a comic license come. Rocksteady Studios have come out of nowhere and released the definitive Batman game. Fans of the caped crusader will love this game but even if you only have a passing interest in the character you will find a lot to enjoy here. This game of the year edition adds a few extras to an already great game.

Gameplay: Polished and engaging, this is the best Batman game yet.

Graphics: Excellent visual style that retains the gritty look of the comic books.

Sound: Excellent voice overs all round and great music

Vampire Legends: The True Story of Kisilova

Vampire Legends: The True Story of Kisilova

Exploring an 18th century town hot on the heels of a vampire makes for an interesting hidden object game and the abundance of mini-games are also very entertaining. The story is fairly straightforward, but the locations are varied and managed to keep us hooked right to the end. The bonus chapter is also an unexpected highlight and definitely adds value for money.

Gameplay: The main story is a little short, but remains fun throughout and the bonus chapter is a big plus.

Graphics: Nice artwork and plenty of great locations.

Sound: Good overall, but the sound effects really stand out as great

Legacy of Dorn: Herald of Oblivion

Legacy of Dorn: Herald of Oblivion

Legacy of Dorn is a thrilling chapter in the Warhammer 4000 saga and packs a very engrossing story. The game also makes the most of the license by packing the space hulk with all the major foes. Space Marines are designed for combat and Legacy of Dorn certainly doesn’t disappoint in this regard either. It is still a gamebook though, so if you don’t like reading or expect cutting edge visuals it is better to steer clear. Everyone else should definitely let their imagination run wild with this title.

Gameplay: The story is fast paced and thrilling although a little jargon heavy at times.

Graphics: Atmospheric, but mostly text and not that easy on the eyes due to the color scheme.

Sound: The game features no speech, but the ambient soundtrack is fitting and unobtrusive

Nightmares from the Deep: The Cursed Heart

Nightmares from the Deep: The Cursed Heart

Rescue your daughter from the clutches of an undead pirate in this enjoyable hidden object game. Or, if hidden object hunting is not your thing, do so instead by playing a couple of solo Mahjong rounds. The Cursed Heart features an interesting storyline, great locations and plenty of puzzles to solve. The only thing holding it back is the low resolution cut-scenes and less than stellar voice acting.

Gameplay: Rather easy, but very enjoyable.

Graphics: The locations look great, but the cut-scenes plays at a very low resolution.

Sound: Nice music and sound effects, but the voice acting could have been better

Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception

Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception

While Uncharted 3 is a great game, it falls somewhat short of the jaw dropping thrills delivered in the last game. The story is little less inspiring and the whole game has a bit of a rushed feel to it. There are some great set pieces and the usual assortment of exotic locations but nothing that tops Uncharted 2.

Gameplay: Epic but somehow not quite as epic as the last installment.

Graphics: Still some of the best on the system.

Sound: Up to the usual high standards

Uncharted 2: Among Thieves

Uncharted 2: Among Thieves

Uncharted 2 improves on just about every aspect of the original game to deliver one of the best action experiences on the PS3. The locations are exotic and varied, the enemies cunning and the dialogue great. Virtually every single chapter has a stand out moment that will leave you slack jawed with amazement. Definitely one of the finest games on the system.

Gameplay: The perfect mix of action and adventure.

Graphics: A showcase of what the PS3 can deliver.

Sound: Great voice acting and excellent music