Xbox 360 holiday games list
Xbox 360 was first out of the gate in this generation’s console race, but it’s still far from winded. The head start and relatively affordable price are two keys to its success. It’s got a huge library of excellent games — and that library will only grow through 2009…especially since Sony’s lost Final Fantasy exclusivity. Indeed, Final Fantasy XIII will be coming to the 360, a surprise E3 twist from Square Enix that still has Nintendo fans seeing Final Fantasy VII behind their eyelids.
Still, some problems continue to plague the console. Gamers still whisper about the “Red Ring of Death” as if it were some malevolent baby-snatching angel. It’s not as much of an issue for newer 360s, but the problem’s far from resolved.
Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts
For 3D platformer fans lonely for the cry of the red-crested Breegull.
| Release Date: 11/05/2008 | Publisher: Microsoft |
| ESRB Rating: Everyone 10+ | Developer: Rare |
| Genre: Action |
It’s been a long time since we’ve heard a certain honey bear’s twanging banjo. Banjo and Kazooie are back in fine form for more of the 3D platforming you (possibly) loved on the N64. “Imagination is Nuts & Bolts’ centerpiece,” says Anthony Gallegos. “The ability to craft the perfect vehicle for the challenge set before you — a plane, a boat, a submarine, or simply an effective car — provides a constant source of gratification.” No more collecting endless puzzle pieces, either!
Burnout: Paradise
For anyone who’s ever wanted to tear ass through Paradise City.
| Release Date: 01/22/2008 | Publisher: Electronic Arts |
| ESRB Rating: Everyone 10+ | Developer: Criterion Studios |
| Genre: Racing |
The grass isn’t green and the girls may or may not be pretty, but you won’t care. Burnout: Paradise is all about getting into cars and banging ‘em together like some twisted 5-year-old. “Paradise brilliantly reimagines Burnout as a go-anywhere, do-anything open-world adventure in the vein of Grand Theft Auto,” says Shane Bettenhausen.
Call of Duty: World at War
For anyone comfortable with the fact that a gaming session on Live already proves the world is at war.
| Release Date: 11/11/2008 | Publisher: Activision |
| ESRB Rating: Mature | Developer: Treyarch |
| Genre: Shooter |
Call of Duty: World at War wraps up the final battles of World War II. Players have access to tanks, flamethrowers, and, of course, online multiplayer. Thierry Nguyen has some helpful advice about playing World at War on Live: “Play some Call of Duty 3 again: Specifically, the War multiplayer. While COD: WAW includes a number of familiar COD4 multiplayer modes, it also features the War mode from COD3. And I guarantee that there’ll be idiots who don’t understand how War works, and those idiots will tend to lose.”
Condemned 2: Bloodshot
For the survival/psychological horror fan who needs nightmare fodder besides clowns and zombies.
| Release Date: 03/11/2008 | Publisher: Sega |
| ESRB Rating: Mature | Developer: Monolith Productions |
| Genre: Action |
Greg Ford claims that the atmosphere of Condemned 2: Bloodshot descends so masterfully from serenity to horror that one member of the EGM review staff “played a majority of the game during daylight hours with a friend by his side.” How can a first-person action game about Satanic dolls stationed in a dank, abandoned factory possibly be scary? Dolls just wanna hug you. Forever and ever and….
Dead Space
For anyone terrified by the cold empty void of space, or huge horrible tumor covered monsters.
| Release Date: 10/14/2008 | Publisher: Electronic Arts |
| ESRB Rating: Mature | Developer: EA Redwood Shores |
| Genre: Action |
In his review, Matt Leone says: “Dead Space is at its best when it does things unique to the third-person shooter genre; the zero-gravity sequences (which feature fantastic audio effects that make you feel like you’re in outer space), the storytelling method (events unfold via hovering video log monitors that you watch as you walk around, rather than through traditional cut-scenes), and the dismemberment system all come to mind.”
Devil May Cry 4
For those who need more action, more smirks, more one-liners, and more white hair.
| Release Date: 02/05/2008 | Publisher: Capcom |
| ESRB Rating: Mature | Developer: Capcom |
| Genre: Action |
Devil May Cry means lots of guns, glory, boobs, and manga-grade heroes. Devil May Cry 4 doubles your fun by offering both returning protagonist Dante, and Nero, a new (and decidedly grumpier) hero. “Benching well-liked, wisecrackin’ Dante in favor of decidedly emo, hoodie-clad newcomer Nero may seem like a dumb move, but the gamble actually pays off,” says Shane Bettenhausen. “Its gorgeous trappings, addictive combat, and well-balanced difficulty make it the most satisfying DMC in years.”
Fable 2
For anyone who wants to suffer consequences for their actions.
| Release Date: 10/21/2008 | Publisher: Microsoft |
| ESRB Rating: Mature | Developer: Lionhead Studios |
| Genre: RPG |
Nobody really wants to own up to the bad things they do — that’s why they usually avoid doing them. But Fable 2 forges your character depending on how many medieval ladies you help across the dirt trail…or shove in front of a runaway horse cart. “Fable 2 is filled with more great ideas than the last 10 years of Final Fantasy combined,” says James Mielke.
Fallout 3
For those of us who know in our hearts that it’s never too early to prepare for radiation poisoning.
| Release Date: 10/28/2008 | Publisher: Bethesda Softworks |
| ESRB Rating: Mature | Developer: Bethesda Softworks |
| Genre: RPG |
In Fallout 3’s postapocalyptic world, you must find your runaway father. He left you and your delicious brain to the mercy of mutant zombies, though, so maybe he should just go to hell. Either way, Fallout 3’s a blast to play. “This is the kind of hugely ambitious game that doesn’t come around very often, and when it does, you’d be a fool not to play it and enjoy the hell out of it,” says Demian Linn.
Far Cry 2
For the gamer whose idea of an African safari involves conflict diamonds and contract killings.
| Release Date: 10/15/2008 | Publisher: Ubisoft |
| ESRB Rating: Mature | Developer: Ubisoft Montreal |
| Genre: Shooter |
From Thierry Nguyen’s review: “Far Cry 2’s filled with stuff to do, from primary missions where you assassinate police chiefs or search for hidden caches of gold á la Three Kings to secondary tasks like delivering travel papers to locals in exchange for malaria medication, executing contract killings ordered via hacked cell towers, or carrying out favors for other mercenaries.” Nguyen continues: “Far Cry 2’s overall package makes up for any individual flaws — enough for it to be on a short list of best FPS games this year.”
Gears of War 2
For those who know the gears of war will never truly stop turning — and are pretty OK with that.
| Release Date: 11/07/2008 | Publisher: Microsoft |
| ESRB Rating: Mature | Developer: Epic Games |
| Genre: Shooter |
“Gears’ gameplay isn’t mindless warfare — it’s intensely focused, visceral fun,” says Greg Ford. Hey, real war isn’t much fun, so game war might as well be. Gears of War 2 takes place six months after the original title and adds significant polish to one of the best games in the shooter genre. “It’s when you start hacking into the meat of this epic-expectations sequel that you appreciate what an excellent campaign, juiced-up multiplayer, addictive new co-op Horde mode, and new enemies, items, and weapons can add to what still stands as one of this generation’s best core gameplay systems.”
Grand Theft Auto 4
For the prostitute-robbing cop-killer who aims to grow up into a convict, of course.
| Release Date: 04/29/2008 | Publisher: Rockstar Games |
| ESRB Rating: Mature | Developer: Rockstar North |
| Genre: Action |
Grand Theft Auto games command a massive audience and hold them in thrall like kids at storytime. Grand Theft Auto 4 has its flaws (you can’t tell your clingy cousin to piss off), but it’s also the biggest, most ambitious game in the series, and its protagonist, Niko, is surprisingly sympathetic. “The city just feels alive,” says Crispin Boyer. “But more than just feeling alive, everything in this world is so integrated.”
Guitar Hero World Tour
For Guitar Hero fans who wanna outplay their obnoxious Rock Band 2 rivals.
| Release Date: 10/26/2008 | Publisher: Activision |
| ESRB Rating: Teen | Developer: Neversoft |
| Genre: Music |
Can’t choose between Rock Band 2 or Guitar Hero: World Tour? Don’t feel bad: The two are quite close in quality, says Justin Haywald. “Maybe if I squeeze my Rock Band and Guitar Hero together and leave them overnight in the same case, I can come back the next morning to find that they made an übergame that combines the best of both. But until then, Guitar Hero delivers exactly the things I want out of a rhythm game: great peripherals and fun-to-play music.” If you still can’t decide, buy whichever game your friends don’t buy, and then have music wars that eventually escalate into peripheral-throwing.
Left 4 Dead
For survival-horror fans who managed to rescue 3 and 5.
| Release Date: 11/18/2008 | Publisher: Valve |
| ESRB Rating: Mature | Developer: Turtle Rock Studios |
| Genre: Shooter |
Left 4 Dead is a survival-horror first-person shooter built on Valve’s Source engine. Psht, Half-Life 2 was a cakewalk, right? Left 4 Dead wouldn’t scare a baby. By the way, Wal-Mart is having a sale on nightlights. “Left 4 Dead is for serious gorefiends,” says Tina Sanchez. “And in the end, whether running and gunning with friends or killing people with disgustingly crude zombie attacks, what more could a gamer ask for?”
LEGO Batman
For caped crusader fans who are looking for blocky bat fun.
| Release Date: 09/23/2008 | Publisher: Warner Bros. |
| ESRB Rating: Everyone 10+ | Developer: Traveller’s Tales |
| Genre: Action-adventure |
Leaving the recent dark Batman films to the wayside, the LEGO Batman game takes a lighter, and blockier, spin on Gotham’s hero. If you liked smashing building block creations as a child, or if you’ve enjoyed any of the other LEGO games — Star Wars and Indiana Jones — then you probably will enjoy living your life as a lighter Dark Knight.
LEGO Indiana Jones
Because you can’t get enough Indy in your life.
| Release Date: 06/03/2008 | Publisher: LucasArts |
| ESRB Rating: Everyone 10+ | Developer: Traveller’s Tales |
| Genre: Action-adventure |
LEGO Indiana Jones is a charming, humorous re-telling of the three classic Indiana Jones movies (no Crystal Skulls here, folks). Like in LEGO Star Wars, memorable moments play out on screen with block-made characters — spoofy reenactments geared for maximum nostalgia. According to Ryan Scott, “It’s easy to dismiss as kids’ fare, but Lego Indiana Jones is a light, enjoyable action game, especially if you’ve got a willing friend for co-op play.”
Lips
For anyone who loves karaoke games but wants their own music over a blah in-game selection.
| Release Date: 11/18/2008 | Publisher: Microsoft |
| ESRB Rating: Teen | Developer: iNiS |
| Genre: Music |
Lips, a two-player karaoke game that features motion-sensitive microphones (the second player can join in a duet by shaking the microphone at any time), has its own extensive playlist featuring original recordings of famous songs. But just in case you’re tired of other music games ordering you to sing “Take On Me,” you can hook up your Zune or iPod and select “Take On Me” yourself. Fight the system!
Lost Planet: Extreme Condition — Colonies Edition
For those who like snow fights.
| Release Date: 05/27/2008 | Publisher: Capcom |
| ESRB Rating: Teen | Developer: Capcom |
| Genre: Action |
Rereleased with added content and features, the sci-fi action of Lost Planet makes a second appearance on Xbox 360 and PC. James Mielke says: “It’s hard to argue with what is the ultimate, feature-packed Lost Planet package for veteran fans and curious newcomers alike. As greatest-hits versions go, this is how it should always be done.”
Madden NFL 09
For the football fan whose love for the game conflicts with his love for the couch.
| Release Date: 08/12/2008 | Publisher: Electronic Arts |
| ESRB Rating: Everyone | Developer: EA Tiburon |
| Genre: Sports |
Madden needs no introduction. If you’re interested in Madden NFL 09, chances are good that you’ve been past the 20-yard line before (is that how the kids say it?). And this is a worthy upgrade to the series, says Todd Zuniga: “This is a football game that one-ups the stakes between the sidelines, and it’s so visually impressive that it’s likely to stick in your system all season long — even on Saturdays.”
Midnight Club Los Angeles
For the double clutchin’, NOS boostin, big spoiler lovin’ gamer.
| Release Date: 10/21/2008 | Publisher: Rockstar Games |
| ESRB Rating: Teen | Developer: Rockstar San Diego |
| Genre: Racing |
Giancarlo Varanini says: “MC:LA is all about fun, breakneck racing that should feel immediately familiar if you’ve played any of the previous games in the series.” He continues: “While MC:LA won’t necessarily wow you beyond its technical achievements — it sticks too close to the feel and formula of preview MC games — it still offers plenty of thrilling (and sometimes frustrating) driving.”
Mirror’s Edge
For those who just need to run and jump like hell.
| Release Date: 11/11/2008 | Publisher: Electronic Arts |
| ESRB Rating: Teen | Developer: DICE |
| Genre: Action |
Mirror’s Edge is like what Orwell’s 1984 would have been if Winston Smith had worn running shoes and kept his pale ass in shape. Mirror’s Edge involves protagonist Faith finding answers from a corrupt government, and that involves running, running, running, and jumping. It’s even got a human racing component, a “time trial” that lets you go up against your friends. “While some may be disappointed that the time-trial mode doesn’t offer completely new levels, it already feels like an addictive complement to the rest of Mirror’s Edge — something that’ll likely bring you back to the game over and over just so you can keep trying to get that best time,” says Giancarlo Varanini.
Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe
For anyone who understands why a fight between the Joker and Scorpion needs no explanation.
| Release Date: 11/18/2008 | Publisher: Midway |
| ESRB Rating: Mature | Developer: Midway Chicago |
| Genre: Fighting |
DC’s superheroes and villains gather and face off against the warriors of Mortal Kombat. This is the kind of thing that covered the front of your notebooks when you were a kid. “The best Mortal Kombat games struck a sweet spot between being hardcore fighters and over-the-top button-mashers,” says Garnett Lee. “[MK vs. DC] looks to be aimed squarely at that point.”
NBA 2K9
2009’s basketball champion of the world.
| Release Date: 10/21/2008 | Publisher: 2K Sports |
| ESRB Rating: Everyone | Developer: Visual Concepts |
| Genre: Sports |
After last year’s excellent installation, Visual Concepts manages to hold on to the top spot as makers of the premier NBA experience. “The game shines particularly bright in the Total Team Control mode, which allows you to hook up online with nine other players for 5-on-5 basketball,” says David Ellis. “This mode simulates the experience of playing an actual game of basketball more closely than any videogame I’ve played. In these games, my teammates consistently moved without the ball much like they would in a real game, setting up alley-oops and backdoor screens like perennial NBA all-stars.”
NCAA Basketball 09
For the NCAA enthusiast who believes college is for basketball, not for studying.
| Release Date: 11/17/2008 | Publisher: Electronic Arts |
| ESRB Rating: Everyone | Developer: Electronic Arts |
| Genre: Sports |
For dudes who can’t jump, we have EA’s latest installment in the NCAA franchise. NCAA Basketball 09 features tempo control, an all-new game engine, authentic gameplay –, and, of course, silly round mascots.
NCAA Football 09
This year’s college-pigskin valedictorian.
| Release Date: 07/15/2008 | Publisher: Electronic Arts |
| ESRB Rating: Everyone | Developer: EA Tiburon |
| Genre: Sports |
Featuring a revamped Dynasty mode, some smoothed-out online features, and some great new multiplayer psych-out techniques, NCAA improves upon its predecessor in every way. Resident sports guy Todd Zuniga says: “This may be the only NCAA football game in town (EA’s got exclusivity), but even with competition, there’s no question this one’s national-championship caliber.”
Need for Speed: Undercover
For gamers who never could decide whether to root for the cop or the street racer.
| Release Date: 11/17/2008 | Publisher: Electronic Arts |
| ESRB Rating: Teen | Developer: EA Black Box |
| Genre: Racing |
In Need for Speed: Undercover, you’re an undercover cop who enters street races in order to infiltrate a crime syndicate. Well, if you’re going to die with a thousand mob guns firing at you at once, you might as well have some fun before you go. According to Shane Bettenhausen, “Undercover signals a return to the fast-and-furious ways of yesteryear, complete with oodles of police pursuits, more crashing and banging than an anger-management convention, and heavy doses of style. Indeed, the game’s central mode works harder than ever to make us think we’re in the midst of a movie.”
Ninja Gaiden 2
For the Mountain Dew chugging, masochistic hardcore gamer.
| Release Date: 06/03/2008 | Publisher: Microsoft |
| ESRB Rating: Mature | Developer: Team Ninja |
| Genre: Action |
Ninja Gaiden 2 picks up where its predecessor left off, dropping the player into the game with minor instructions and forcing you to perform perfectly timed combos and counter moves lest you be hewn in twain by your enemies. It also cranks up the gore as Ryu carves limbs off his opponents as if they were Thanksgiving turkey. Make no mistake, Ninja Gaiden 2 is aimed strictly at that old vanguard of gamers who were raised on the classic “die a million times until you’ve mastered it” school of gameplay.
Prince of Persia
For those who’ve longed for their prince to come home.
| Release Date: 12/02/2008 | Publisher: Ubisoft |
| ESRB Rating: Rating Pending | Developer: Ubisoft Montreal |
| Genre: Action |
Ubisoft promises that Prince of Persia will return to its royal roots — less action and more puzzles and acrobatics, like in Sands of Time. Matt Leone says it looks like Ubisoft might make good on this promise: “With the changes, the new game feels a bit more fragmented than previous titles, but the series has never had combat that’s this satisfying.”
Rock Band 2
For the Little Drummer Boy (or Guitar Boy or Bass Boy) inside you.
| Release Date: 09/15/2008 | Publisher: MTV Games |
| ESRB Rating: Teen | Developer: Harmonix Music Systems |
| Genre: Music |
How do you improve on a work of party genius like Rock Band? You make it bigger, louder, and funner (which isn’t technically a word, but it’s got a grand sound that fits Rock Band 2). “Rock Band remains the ultimate party game and a karaoke killer,” says Robert Ashley. “The real attraction here is the game’s Sticky Fingers-like bulge of music.”
Saints Row 2
For the jaded GTA fan or anyone who’s ever dreamed of spraying pedestrians with sewage (seek help).
| Release Date: 10/14/2008 | Publisher: THQ |
| ESRB Rating: Mature | Developer: Volition |
| Genre: Action |
Saints Row 2 manages to pull off a great feat in that it junks the idea of a serious plot or realistic gameplay in favor of making sandbox games fun again. While you won’t be leaping over buildings a la Crackdown, your character is a powerhouse who can manhandle pretty much any enemy he comes across. Filled to the brim with car chases, explosions, and low brow, goofball humor, Saints Row 2 wants you to just have some fun.
Soul Calibur 4
For fighters who have soul but aren’t really soldiers.
| Release Date: 07/29/2008 | Publisher: Namco Bandai |
| ESRB Rating: Teen | Developer: Namco Bandai |
| Genre: Fighting |
Soul Calibur 4, according to James Mielke, is accessible to both hardcore and beginner audiences thanks to improvements to the series’ fighting core: “Balanced and feature-rich, SC4 improves on the groundwork of core fighting mechanics laid in the series’ previous iterations while giving players a virtual fighting sandbox.” The character creation mode is also detailed enough to make you feel like you might be offending God with your detailed constructs. Awesome.
Star Wars: The Force Unleashed
For the Star Wars fan who always wanted to force throw a Tie Fighter into a lowly stormtrooper.
| Release Date: 09/16/2008 | Publisher: LucasArts |
| ESRB Rating: Teen | Developer: LucasArts |
| Genre: Action |
While it’s certainly not as great as many were hoping, Force Unleashed offers exciting moments and relatively clever force powers while spinning a mostly acceptable tale about Darth Vader’s secret aprentice. The gameplay is straightforward and uninspired but the visuals and style of the game are solid and well done. Giancarlo Varanini says: “The environments feature tons of detail, and the high level of interaction’s equally impressive: The massive fungal trees on Felucia sway back and forth after you let loose with a Force push blast, and even smaller details — like the way doors fold and break under the power of the Force — are pretty darn cool.” So while it won’t blow anyone away, Force Unleashed is a solid choice for Star Wars fans looking for a little distraction before having to choke down whatever awful piece of half-baked trash George Lucas greenlights next.
Tales of Vesperia
Looking for a good Japanese role-playing game? Vesperia heeds your call.
| Release Date: 08/26/2008 | Publisher: Namco Bandai |
| ESRB Rating: Teen | Developer: Namco Bandai |
| Genre: RPG |
Though its English localization leaves something to be desired, the game’s action-based combat, character customization, and easy-to-use menus make this entry into the Tales series a memorable one. According to Andrew Fitch, Tales of Vesperia “manages to recapture — even if only for fleeting moments — some of those elusive intangibles that led to lost RPG weekends on the Super Nintendo and PlayStation 1.”
Tiger Woods PGA Tour 09
For golfers who want to be Tiger Woods but are realistic about their personal flaws.
| Release Date: 08/26/2008 | Publisher: Electronic Arts |
| ESRB Rating: Everyone | Developer: EA Tiburon |
| Genre: Sports |
Joe Rybicki found last year’s Tiger Woods PGA Tour to be underwhelming, but thanks to some tinkering and aligned planets, finds this year’s Tiger Woods to feel just right. “The issues with swing sensitivity are answered with a swing feedback meter, which clearly illustrates any deficiencies in your swing,” he says. “The instant feedback does wonders for those wishing to learn proper technique.”
Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six: Vegas 2
For anyone smart enough to know that whatever gets dead in Vegas, stays dead in Vegas.
| Release Date: 03/18/2008 | Publisher: Ubisoft |
| ESRB Rating: Mature | Developer: Ubisoft Montreal |
| Genre: Shooter |
“Although a narrative sequel to the original Rainbow Six: Vegas, Vegas 2 doesn’t tackle the job by simply picking up where the previous game left off,” says John Davison. “If you were expecting immediate resolution…then you’re going to have to cool your jets.” At the very least, you won’t be bored on your way to digging up answers. Rainbow Six: Vegas 2 “boasts changes and enhancements all over the place.”
Tomb Raider: Underworld
For Lara’s devoted fans.
| Release Date: 11/18/2008 | Publisher: Eidos |
| ESRB Rating: Teen | Developer: Crystal Dynamics |
| Genre: Adventure |
Lara’s back, which isn’t a surprise. Picking up where Tomb Raider: Legend left off, Underworld offers gamers the opportunity to return to the things that made Tomb Raider so much fun — and also shoot sharks in the face. “Underworld looks to be a repository of scaled-back, accessible gameplay culled from hardcore sources,” says Robert Ashley.
Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise
For anyone who likes to bust open pretty animals and harvest their guts.
| Release Date: 09/05/2008 | Publisher: Microsoft |
| ESRB Rating: Everyone | Developer: Rare |
| Genre: Simulation |
If you were into the first Viva Piñata and still think about those carefree paper animals romping through an Eden of your own creation, here’s some good news: Viva Piñata’s back, and it’s tastier than ever. “The handful of annoying and tedious actions from the previous game were rethought and streamlined, making everything smoother — and a lot more fun,” says Anthony Gallegos. Just don’t take a stick to the cat expecting Tootsie Rolls.
WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009
For fans who can’t wait to jump back into the ring.
| Release Date: 11/09/2008 | Publisher: THQ |
| ESRB Rating: Teen | Developer: Yuke’s |
| Genre: Wrestling |
Michael Donahoe, our resident wrestling connoisseur, says, “Lots of improvements and upcoming downloadable content make SVR09 this year’s grapple-game champ.” With the ability to create your own finisher, record and edit in-game clips to make your own highlight reel, and play through seven different compelling storylines, it’s easy to see why Donahoe says this year’s game is “an awesome package any fan will surely want to grab.”
Bionic Commando Rearmed
For the aspiring supersoldier who’s totally rad for “Rad.”
| Release Date: 08/13/2008 | Publisher: Capcom |
| ESRB Rating: Mature | Developer: GRIN |
| Genre: Action |
The original NES Bionic Commando taught children their patriotic duty: If you see Hitler walking down the street, by god, you’d better blow up that fat head of his. Grin’s Xbox Live Arcade remake brilliantly pokes fun at the original game’s camp while still managing to provide an intense action game. “Rearmed is unquestionably Bionic Commando,” says Jeremy Parish. “It retains the classic level designs, which were brilliantly crafted all those years ago to provide an optimum challenge to a hero with no jump button.”
Braid
For those of us who think deep thoughts when we play Mario games.
| Release Date: 08/06/2008 | Publisher: Microsoft |
| ESRB Rating: Everyone 10+ | Developer: Number None |
| Genre: Action |
Barreling through Koopas without asking questions is good enough for some people, but for anyone who wants to explore the deep “why” of platformers, there’s Braid. This doesn’t just provide plenty of run and jump: It’s got puzzles and deep questions worth discussing over tea. “Excellent but intellectually limited as a puzzle-platformer, Braid is made truly divine with emotional depth and a bittersweet humanity — a monumentally relevant game that speaks highly of its creators and their potential audience’s tolerance for new ideas,” says Nick Suttner.
Duke Nukem 3D
For anyone who needs proof to assure others (and themselves) that Duke Nukem exists.
| Release Date: 09/24/2008 | Publisher: 3D Realms |
| ESRB Rating: Mature | Developer: 3D Realms |
| Genre: Shooter |
“This game was like a brother to me — a brother that cursed a lot and shared his porn collection,” says Eric Neigher. “And that’s why it’s so awesome to see the Dukester back in action, with a new generation of degenerate teens to corrupt.” Indeed, Duke’s blood-splattering, boobie-showing shooter goes back to a more innocent time, when moms and dads really knew nothing about videogames beyond Super Mario and Pong. “Spouting lines ripped off from your favorite ’80s movies, Duke boots alien invaders in the ass with abandon through four single-player chapters.”
Galaga Legions
For anyone who thinks arcades of the past were lacking in big noises and shiny things.
| Release Date: 08/20/2008 | Publisher: Namco Bandai |
| ESRB Rating: Everyone | Developer: Namco Bandai |
| Genre: Action |
Galaga Legions combines old-school gameplay, thumping techno music, and neon-glowing graphics into a package that’s so hypnotic that you won’t notice your cat throwing up on your lap. Ryan Scott says: “With extremely high-quality games like Legions and Pac-Man: CE, it’s a wonder Namco Bandai hasn’t just flat-out established a retro-gaming imprint.”
Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved 2
For the wary student who doesn’t believe geometry can be both fun and genocidal.
| Release Date: 07/30/2008 | Publisher: Activision |
| ESRB Rating: Everyone | Developer: Bizarre Creations |
| Genre: Shooter |
“How do you make a worthy sequel to a $5 twin-stick shooter that single-handedly defined the Xbox Live Arcade service and ensnared a generation of Achievement junkies?” asks Nick Suttner. The answer is Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved 2, which packs in more content, challenge, and character than its predecessor — all in the name of good fun. “The original Retro Evolved was a great early example of how much fun XBLA could be, and Retro Evolved 2 is a very clear picture of where the service stands now: It’s not sure where it wants to go, but it’s always, always entertaining.”
GripShift
For people who want to choreograph monkey-in-ball death races.
| Release Date: 12/12/2007 | Publisher: Sidhe Interactive |
| ESRB Rating: Everyone 10+ | Developer: Sidhe Interactive |
| Genre: Racing |
“You’d be horribly remiss in thinking that GripShift is just another mediocre Live Arcade racer,” warns Nick Suttner, “mostly because GripShift isn’t really a racer at all — at least, not the best bits of it.” An XBLA remake of a PSP game, GripShift’s pedigree owes a lot to the likes of Super Monkey Ball and Marble Blast Ultra. Playing the role of a car (which sounds like a Choose Your Own Adventure book), you must race your way through treacherous courses. “GripShift is an excellent puzzle game that’s exponentially more entertaining in practice than description (and looks and sounds great, besides), and it needs you to really sink some time into it to understand the appeal.”
Ikaruga
For anyone who feels that guns and beauty belong together.
| Release Date: 04/09/2008 | Publisher: Sega |
| ESRB Rating: Everyone | Developer: Treasure |
| Genre: Shooter |
Ikaruga has a bit of history behind it — it was initially released in Japanese arcades before it hit the Dreamcast and GameCube, meaning a lot of gamers have overlooked it until now. “The twist,” says 1UP’s Ray Barnholt, “is that you’re able to change the color of your ship (and its bullets) between black and white and then absorb enemy bullets of the same color or hit enemies of the opposite color harder.” Sometimes beauty’s more than skin deep. “Changing colors and building combo chains doesn’t sound like much on paper, but adding a simple gameplay layer did a lot for a genre that wasn’t innovating very often.”
Mega Man 9
For the closest thing to a time machine you’ll ever get.
| Release Date: 09/22/2008 | Publisher: Capcom |
| ESRB Rating: Everyone | Developer: Capcom |
| Genre: Action |
Ryan Scott says: “You’ll wanna break your controller in half at times, but clearing an arduous section’s extremely gratifying — and after every hard-won victory, subsequent trips are almost like riding a bike. MM9’s relentlessness molds you into a real expert by the time you reach the final chain of endgame stages, and you definitely need those skills to conquer the evil (spoiler, I guess, if you’ve somehow never played a Mega Man game) Dr. Wily’s fortress.” He continues: “MM9 is an unapologetic nod to one of gaming’s greatest eras. It might’ve been made especially for nostalgia-crazed dorks like me, but it’s something that any challenge-seeking gamer can dig.”
N+
It may look low-res, but the fun’s certified HD.
| Release Date: 02/20/2008 | Publisher: Metanet |
| ESRB Rating: Everyone | Developer: Slick Entertainment Inc. |
| Genre: Action |
Despite its humble origins as a free Flash PC game, N+ manages to rise above the crowd and offers one the most fun, frenetic, and challenging experiences on XBLA. “With an aesthetically minimalist presentation, a lovable stick-figure-ninja protagonist, and some of the most engaging platformer physics ever, it quickly became one of the most beloved work distractions in memory,” says Nick Suttner. “There’s a fantastic amount of content to tackle with a friend, and it’s almost universally excellent.”
Poker Smash
For those who know when to hold ‘em, when to fold ‘em, and when to make ‘em colorfully explode.
| Release Date: 02/06/2008 | Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios |
| ESRB Rating: Everyone | Developer: Void Star Creations |
| Genre: Puzzle |
In retrospect, combining poker with falling-block puzzle games just seems so obvious. Somewhat less obvious is taking that simple brilliance, giving it lag-free online play, versus modes, and 55 challenge levels. You’re more than getting your money’s worth.
Portal: Still Alive
For anyone who wants another chance to pour sugar in GlaDOS’ gas tank.
| Release Date: 10/22/2008 | Publisher: Electronic Arts |
| ESRB Rating: Teen | Developer: Valve Software |
| Genre: Puzzle |
Portal was one of 2007’s most well-received titles. Now players can return to the sterile grey hell of Aperture Science, take on 14 new challenge maps, and do what they must because they can. “By making the game available to a broader audience and including several excellent challenges (along with all-new Achievements), Portal isn’t merely alive — it’s stronger than ever,” says Andrew Hayward.
Rez HD
For anyone who missed their first chance with Rez (all of you).
| Release Date: 01/30/2008 | Publisher: Q Entertainment |
| ESRB Rating: Everyone | Developer: HexaDrive |
| Genre: Simulation |
Sam Kennedy describes the original Rez as “one of the most critically acclaimed games of all time that nobody played.” This overlooked classic blends on-rails shooting and music into one of those delightful life-affirming experiences that never seem to come our way often enough. Rez HD adds style to style: “With its minimalist wire frame and vector graphics now free of any jagged edges, Rez HD looks spectacular — with not even a hint of date or flaw.”
Roogoo
For your inner child — the child who still loves stuffing shaped blocks in holes.
| Release Date: 06/04/2008 | Publisher: SouthPeak |
| ESRB Rating: Everyone | Developer: SpiderMonk Entertainment |
| Genre: Puzzle |
Roogoo’s concept is simple: Rotate discs so that differently shaped objects can proceed through them unabated. But much like the Rubik’s Cube of old, it’s just not that simple. This is a hefty challenge that’ll torment puzzle lovers: “Its bright and cheery art style, adorably cute characters, and challenging play make this one of my favorite XBLA titles to date,” says Anthony Gallegos.
Street Fighter II Turbo: HD Remix
For the love of crisp, beautiful Hadokens.
| Release Date: November 2008 | Publisher: Capcom |
| ESRB Rating: Teen | Developer: Backbone Entertainment |
| Genre: Fighting |
Street Fighter II Turbo: HD Remix has been a long time coming, but it looks like Capcom and Backbone have applied the last loving touches to those lingering drops of blood. It’s the action you remember from those summers you wasted in arcades and in front of your Super Nintendo — but with high-definition goodness. “HD Remix is deliciously retro…and we’re loving everything about it,” says Ryan Scott.
Games to avoid
-
Golden Axe: Beast Rider
Hack-and-slash action games are fun up to a point, but unless they’re really innovative, they quickly become button-mashing slogs. Like this. -
Hellboy: The Science of Evil
Hellboy looks good for a soldier from the pits of hell, but that’s about all he’s got going for him in The Science of Evil. -
The Legend of Spyro: Dawn of the Dragon
Spyro games are usually filed alongside Crash Bandicoot games in the “I didn’t realize these franchises were still active” folder that we keep in the cabinet of over-extended analogies. -
NFL Tour
“Budget buyers, beware: This half-assed rebranding and rethinking of the NFL Street series is one of the limpest sports experiences I’ve played in years,” says Todd Zuniga. -
Pirates vs. Ninjas Dodgeball
A pirate walks into a pub with a copy of Pirates vs. Ninjas Dodgeball strapped to his crotch. The bartender says, “Buddy, you got a videogame stuck on your mast,” and the pirate says, “Arrr, it be driving me nuts.” -
Too Human
“The game is simply schizophrenic; it attempts to be all things to all people and never succeeds in executing any of them well,” says Giancarlo Varanini. -
WALL-E
We have a dangerous situation here. WALL-E’s a bland adaptation of one of the best animated movies in decades — but the game still features WALL-E’s lonely saucer eyes.
source: 1up.com
