November Video Game Preview Thread

KePoW · Nov 1, 2006

not sure if you're aware RC, but Burning Crusade has been officially delayed to 'January 2007' for now

the announcement came 1-2 weeks ago

KePoW · Nov 1, 2006

er wait, Castor27 posted that lol

I just assumed it was RC haha

oomp · Nov 1, 2006

I'm getting Killzone: Liberation for my PSP today.

Outlier · Nov 1, 2006

mogrod said:

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Yea seriously, why do they keep making those games for pervs? Meaningless games

Castor27 · Nov 1, 2006

KePoW said:

er wait, Castor27 posted that lol

I just assumed it was RC haha
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I actually was not aware of that. Thanks for the info.

david_rocket · Nov 1, 2006

RC Cola said:

I heard about the game a while back when it was announced as a 360 game, but the 360 version was canceled since then. To be honest, I haven't really followed it all that well, but I'm not really expecting the game to be all that good. Looking at the Gamespot page for it, 7 Studios is developing it, and the scores for their games at Gamespot aren't very good (ranging from 3.8 to 6.9). It might be a nice surprise though, and even if it has some flaws, it might be able to be enjoyable for fans of the series.

I didn't include it in the list, but the game is scheduled to be out on November 7th. If it gets some positive reviews, I'll try to make note of it in the thread.
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Ok, thanks for the info.

RC Cola · Nov 8, 2006

Some of the early reviews (except for GOW reviews, which were posted in the GOW thread):

Guitar Hero II (PS2)
http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/puzzle/guitarhero2/review.html?sid=6161281

It might not make quite the same impact that its predecessor did, but Guitar Hero II brings the rock heavier and faster than ever before.
The Good: Same superb gameplay you remember, but with an added splash of challenge; more multiplayer modes, including cooperative play; 64 total songs, 40 licensed from major bands; the new practice mode is easy to use and wonderfully configurable; trogdor.
The Bad: Track list may be bigger, but it's not quite as good as the first game's; difficulty doesn't scale as masterfully this time around; some of the cooperative parts are highly dull, even on expert.
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Gameplay
9
Graphics
8
Sound
9
Value
8
Tilt
9
Overall
8.7
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8.7 from Gamespot, 94 at Metacritic.

Elite Beat Agents (DS)
http://www.gamespot.com/ds/puzzle/elitebeatagents/review.html?sid=6161140

You won't find a stranger and more addictive rhythm game on a handheld system than Elite Beat Agents.
The Good: Top-notch rhythmic gameplay that requires a good deal of practice to master; completely outlandish cutscenes and stage scenarios; plenty of off-the-wall licensed music that's fun to play with; four difficulty levels and a multiplayer mode.
The Bad: A few of the more recent songs feel woefully out of place; difficulty can occasionally be a bit too much.
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Gameplay
9
Graphics
9
Sound
9
Value
8
Tilt
9
Overall
8.9
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8.9 from Gamespot, 88 from Metacritic. Game Informer's 68 and Gamedaily didn't really like the game, so the average score could be a little higher (3 95s, 2 90s, and a 89 make up 6 of the 9 reviews). I should probably stop nitpicking on all these "bad" reviews for games.

Call of Duty 3 (Multi)
http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/744/744720p1.html
Um...IGN forgot to put in some closing comments for this review.

8.5 Presentation
The in-engine cut scenes are done well enough, but why can’t you skip them? The extras are appreciated.
9.0 Graphics
This game oozes detail. Combine this with insane amounts of on-screen activity and you’re transported into WWII.
9.0 Sound
Music from the period mixes with a dramatic score and unbelievably atmospheric sounds of battle to make excellent audio.
8.5 Gameplay
It wasn’t broken so they didn’t fix it. The campaign additions are welcome, but don’t significantly add to the experience. The online features are exactly what the series needed.
9.0 Lasting Appeal
24 players online with multiple vehicles and character classes. This should be a heavily played online game this holiday season.
8.8 Overall
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8.8 from IGN, 87 from Metacritic for 360 version.

Lumines II (PSP)
http://psp.ign.com/articles/744/744677p1.html

Sometimes it's hard to improve on a good thing, but Lumines II has managed to expand on just about every facet of the first game. A deeper challenge mode, tons of new skins and loads of puzzles and missions are just the tip of the iceberg. Throw in the sequencer and Skin Edit mode, plus the ability to trade playlists with friends, and you have an almost perfect puzzler. There are still a few issues, like some easier AI and some visual issues, but for what it's worth, Lumines II is an excellent title for the PSP. Mizuguchi has done it again.
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9.0 Presentation
A redesigned visual experience, along with customizable menus and expanded sections makes Lumines II a richer title than its predecessor.
8.5 Graphics
Sharper skins and brighter textures are somewhat compromised by blocks that can be hard to see and a lack of a player for included music videos.
9.0 Sound
There's a wide variety of songs and genres included in Lumines II, and while the ambient sound effects are relatively the same, you should be able to find at least five tracks that you'll like.
9.0 Gameplay
The gameplay hasn't changed from the first game, but it's simply evolved with extra challenge, puzzle and mission modes.
9.0 Lasting Appeal
Trading playlists and other data with friends is great, and the sequencer goes a long way in cutting down boredom. I just wish the sequencer was explained more.
9.0 Overall
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9.0 from IGN, 89 from Metacritic. Strangely enough, that's the same score the original Lumines has at Metacritic, although since Lumines II only has 4 reviews, I suppose that might change.

SOCOM Fireteam Bravo 2 (PSP)
http://psp.ign.com/articles/744/744652p1.html

SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs Fireteam Bravo 2 is a fine follow-up to last year's original PSP release. It isn't perfect, what with sometimes linear level layouts and a somewhat aggravating lock-on distance, but it's still very good fun. Like last year, it's a bit of a different experience than the console games, but it's also tied into Combined Assault very well. SOCOM fans won't be disappointed.
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7.0 Presentation
The storyline still feels disconnected, and the inability to look at weapon stats is very curious. Cutscene and mission debriefings are very well done, however.
8.0 Graphics
Nice detail everywhere and a great draw distance make this game feel giant in scope and generally lively.
8.0 Sound
Great weapon effects and nice voice work. Great theme music returns.
8.0 Gameplay
The aiming mechanism isn't perfect and the level design can feel linear at times, but everything else is great. Online is fantastic fun when it's not laggy.
9.0 Lasting Appeal
Single-player campaign is reasonably lengthy and the online could last you quite a while.
8.0 Overall
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8.0 from IGN, 81 from Metacritic.

SD vs Raw 2007 (Multi)
http://ps2.ign.com/articles/744/744193p1.html (PS2 review, not 360)

Don't let our nitpicking fool you (after all, we snipe because we care) -- WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 is still an imposing beast of a wrestling game. Regardless of its dated animations, rosters, and foolish AI, it's still a heck of a lot of fun. Thousands of different grappling holds await those who tread its squared circle, while the new analog-based mechanics and ultimate control moves add depth to a system that most would expect to be exhausted. In other words, think of SmackDown 2007 as the Ric Flair of videogames -- a wrestling great with enough titles and fond memories to keep its forward momentum for yet another, but aged to a point where we're questioning how much longer it can go.
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7.5 Presentation
A strong collection of storylines are supported by a deadly accurate WWE broadcast style. Epoch-long load times at every turn, however, take away from the fun.
8.5 Graphics
Yuke's still knows how to make great current-gen character models and environments and it shows in SVR '07. The animations look great too... even if we have seen them for years.
7.0 Sound
Commentary is more diverse than last year, but it will still repeat rather quickly and it makes a number of silly mistakes. Total voice-overs for current superstars and most of the intro musics helps.
8.0 Gameplay
The proven SmackDown grappling mechanics get a much-needed boost from analog control, environmental hot spots, and UCMs. Poor AI and unavoidable chain attacks can get frustrating.
8.0 Lasting Appeal
A bazillion match types and options, the expected online mode, Season and General Manager features, and six-player support should keep you going for a good bit.
8.0 Overall
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8.0 from IGN, no score yet from Metacritic.

IGN also posted their first review of a PS3 game (which I'll probably post again in the PS3 thread):

Genji: Days of the Blade (PS3)
http://ps3.ign.com/articles/744/744611p1.html

While gorgeous, Days of the Blade hardly lets gamers “play beyond”, as it were. The additional characters and weapons certainly help, as does the flexible combat system. The game also offers amazing vistas and epic boss fights. Regardless of how someone dresses a corpse, though, it’s still a corpse. And that’s the main problem here. Beneath the gleaming surface lies an old heart that’s just about had it. Days of the Blade gets half the formula right. Sadly, it’s the wrong half. In the end, fans of the original should take a look, but anyone looking for a true next-generation action title will need to wait.
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8.0 Presentation
Everything from character animation and environments to the menu system benefits from a high degree of polish.
8.5 Graphics
Highly detailed character models and slick animation blends with spectacular locales and overall design.
8.0 Sound
While it sounds very good, the score is somewhat limited. Also, the voicework could use a tad of refinement.
6.0 Gameplay
The awesome presentation can't hide dying gameplay mechanics.
7.0 Lasting Appeal
It's a lengthy game, though gameplay gets repetetive after a while.
6.0 Overall
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6.0 from IGN, no score yet at Metacritic. I think 2 Japanese magazines reviewed the game already as well, and their scores pretty much mirrored IGN's...maybe not quite as bad, but it is pretty clear that Genji isn't a very good game.

RC Cola · Nov 13, 2006

More reviews for the people that don't care about the Wii, PS3, or Gears of War (um...like 2 people):

SOCOM Combined Assault (PS2)
http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/action/socomcombinedassault/review.html?sid=6161354

Combined Assault offers the same great gameplay of its predecessors along with a lengthy single-player campaign that can also be played cooperatively.
The Good: Lengthy single-player campaign with plenty of fun, varied missions; retains the same solid, satisfying tactical shooting mechanics the series is known for; has online co-op, as well as all of the 32-player online modes from the previous game.
The Bad: Artificial intelligence is spotty at best; graphics are starting to show some age.
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Gameplay
8
Graphics
7
Sound
7
Value
9
Tilt
9
Overall
8.2
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8.2 from Gamespot, 75 at Metacritic.

Yoshi's Island DS (DS)
http://www.gamespot.com/ds/action/yoshisisland2/review.html?sid=6161583

Yoshi's Island DS is a terrific platformer that’s every bit as fun and charming as its predecessor.
The Good: A wildly diverse platformer with lots of huge levels; all of the different babies’ abilities give players plenty to do; crayon graphics and lighthearted music provide a charming atmosphere; unlocking everything is a real challenge, even if finishing the game is easy; improves on the original without mucking anything up.
The Bad: Some people may not like the cleaned-up graphics; music tends to be understated; no multiplayer.
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Gameplay
9
Graphics
9
Sound
8
Value
8
Tilt
10
Overall
9.1
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9.1 from Gamespot, 83 at Metacritic.

Tony Hawk's Project 8 (Multi)
http://www.gamespot.com/xbox360/sports/tonyhawksproject8/review.html?sid=6161340

Project 8 makes a lot of changes that will please fans of the series, but a few technical issues keep it from being as great as it could have been.
The Good: Redesigned career mode gives you multiple levels of challenge; nail the trick mode is a cool-looking addition that has a positive impact on the gameplay; online scoreboards add more lasting challenge to the career mode.
The Bad: Frame rate is frequently unstable; skater creation options aren't as in-depth as they have been in previous installments.
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Gameplay
8
Graphics
7
Sound
8
Value
8
Tilt
8
Overall
7.9
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7.9 from Gamespot, 83 from Metacritic.

Every Extend Extra (PSP)
http://psp.ign.com/articles/745/745184p1.html

Every Extend Extra does a fine job of mixing arcade action with the depth of a serious puzzle game. It could use more stages, not to mention a greater range of difficulty modes, but these complaints fail to make the game any less appealing. Throw in a collection of catchy tunes and trippy visuals, and Every Extend Extra provides just about everything a puzzle fan could want.
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8.0 Presentation
A slick package all around. Nice tunes, visuals and gameplay.
8.0 Graphics
Hypnotic visuals and inventive design throughout.
8.0 Sound
Like Lumines, Every Extend Extra packs a serious collection of tunes.
8.0 Gameplay
The single-player arcade mode won't last long, but it demands repeat playing.
8.5 Lasting Appeal
The multiplayer mode will keep players busy for a long time.
8.1 Overall
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8.1 from IGN, 78 from Metacritic.

Medieval II: Total War (PC)
http://pc.ign.com/articles/745/745219p1.html

It's true that the developers really missed an opportunity to rework the interface but the graphics upgrade and new campaign options are more than enough to satisfy the legions of Total War fans. Gamers expecting the revolutionary leap forward found in Rome: Total War are really going to be let down by this sequel. Instead Medieval takes the successful ideas introduced in Rome and brings them back to the Middle Ages. For most strategy gamers, that's more than enough to recommend it, especially if you're a fan of the time period.
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8.5 Presentation
Still delivers the whole package of medieval warfare but missed out on some chances to improve the interface.
9.0 Graphics
It's easily one of the best-looking strategy games on the market, now and in the foreseeable future.
9.0 Sound
Great battle sounds and thrilling music put you right in the heart of the action.
8.5 Gameplay
The game offers solid campaign play and first-rate tactical battles. Inconsistencies in sieges and the religious system are disappointing.
8.5 Lasting Appeal
Not as comprehensive as previous iterations but you'll still get your money's worth out of this one.
8.8 Overall
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8.8 from IGN, 91 at Metacritic.

Viva Pinata (360)
http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/745/745371p1.html

If you've played The Sims or Animal Crossing and enjoyed them, Viva Pinata is a safe bet. The gameplay is more interactive and hectic, and facing the consequences of your actions, be they good or bad, is enjoyable gaming. Viva Piñata may have been designed with children in mind, but Rare has created a game that anybody with an open mind can get into and have fun with. The characters are endearing and the abounding sense of discovery can't be denied. Despite the slim interpersonal Xbox Live interaction we would hope for in a game like this, Viva Piñata has enough to explore and keep you busy that it makes for a solid purchase.
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Another take...

For many years now, Microsoft and Rare have wanted to create game for all ages, including games for kids. Viva Pinata is definitely a kids’ game. That may put you off. But as opposed to the dozens of crappy kids games churned out by other publishers each year, Microsoft and Rare have made an engaging and surprisingly refreshing title. It's deep in the way that old Nintendo kids games used be, like The Legend of Zelda, Super Mario Brothers, even Pokemon.

Viva Pinata isn't a platformer or an RPG though. It's really a very conscious blend of The Sims, Animal Crossing and Pokemon. I like to call it a garden sim, or jokingly, a shovel simulator. But it's more than that. And the only way to really convey the gameplay of Rare's new gem is to play it. It never plays the same way twice, and it's filled with surprising AI behavior, so if you and a friend each started games simultaneously, you'd have completely different gardens within a few hours. The gameplay is deep with choices, it's very well explained (though there is an overabundance of text for a kid), and it's never slow. Your garden will start off quickly: Animals show up and move in, they eat, breed and fight. Weirdly masked helpers appear to give guidance, and their help, their shops and their presence adds greatly to the experience. The online aspect, sharing and trading animals (like sending Sours to your buddy) should play out very well in theory; unfortunately, I was unable to try it, so I don't know firsthand.

In the long run, I'm inclined to think that I'll like Viva Pinata better than either Kameo or Perfect Dark Zero. It’s certainly different enough.
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8.0 Presentation
Great style. Viva is rife with humor that will appeal to all ages.
8.0 Graphics
Frequent slowdown as the game autosaves hurts the nice visuals.
9.0 Sound
Excellent sound effects that help bring the world to life.
8.5 Gameplay
A unique game that is a surprisingly deep and engaging experience.
7.5 Lasting Appeal
More online features would have greatly extended the life of the game.
8.5 Overall
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8.5 from IGN, 85 from Metacritic.

DOA Xtreme 2 (360)
http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/745/745683p1.html

Dead or Alive Xtreme 2 may not really be about the volleyball or other mini-games, but you still have to go through the games to get money before you can partake in the other stimulating activities and it's all a chore. Although the visuals are nice and there isn't a better game out there for ogling digital women, the new mini-games are a poor excuse for added gameplay and too much of the first game was recycled. Dead or Alive Xtreme 2 falls flat as a sequel and missed an opportunity to flesh out the gameplay. We wanted to give Dead or Alive Xtreme 2 a 6.9 for the sheer sophomoric hilarity of it, but the game didn't deserve it.
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Another take

Having written the guide for the original Dead or Alive Xtreme Beach Volleyball, I invested an unhealthy amount of time into purchasing gifts for virtual babes. The thought of a new DOAX was both thrilling and frightening. If Team Ninja could just fix a few things and make for a fully-realized island, this could be the most captivating and addictive game on 360. That's the frightening part. If done right, my nights would become consumed with DOAX 2. After experiencing DOAX 2 for a few hours, it's clear my free time will remain free.

I admit I haven't even played DOAX 2. I don't need to. Watching Brudvig play DOAX 2 for a couple of hours was all I needed to know that this is the same game. Who cares if they add a couple of mini-games? The presentation remains basic, most of the suits are repeats from DOAX and Team Ninja uses the exact same courts for volleyball. This is, essentially, the same game at a higher resolution. Oh, and with new freakish boob physics. Watching boobs bouncing about independent of one another made me seasick. Instead of creating a game that makes me horny, Team Ninja has created a sequel that makes me vomit. Brilliant.
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5.5 Presentation
Basic and unchanged. The first game wasn't perfect and leaving it the same was a poor choice.
8.0 Graphics
The girls are looking good aside from their hair and the backdrops are vibrant.
6.5 Sound
We've heard many of these songs before and the girls don't know enough lines.
5.0 Gameplay
The mini-games are a sad excuse for gameplay. The marine racing is OK and the volleyball is still decent.
6.0 Lasting Appeal
It will take forever to fill out your collection, but few will care to play that long.
6.4 Overall
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6.4 from IGN, no score yet from Metacritic, but the 3 reviews so far are pretty bad (67 is highest score).

Faos · Nov 21, 2006

Anyone tried Rainbow Six Vegas? I love the premise of running around Las Vegas and would consider buying it just because of that.

Coach AI · Nov 21, 2006

Faos said:

Anyone tried Rainbow Six Vegas? I love the premise of running around Las Vegas and would consider buying it just because of that.
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There's a demo on live, I think, but I haven't tried it yet.

It certainly looks pretty.

Poloshirtbandit · Nov 21, 2006

Did College Hoops come out yet? I read somewhere the PS2 release was pushed back.

RC Cola · Nov 25, 2006

Poloshirtbandit said:

Did College Hoops come out yet? I read somewhere the PS2 release was pushed back.
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Sorry for the late reply, but I think just the PS2 version got pushed back. I think both the Xbox and 360 versions are on sale right now. You might have already figured that out though...

Also sorry about the lack of reviews. I got caught up in some other stuff, so I forgot to update this last week. Oh well, that just means more of them in this post.

Superman Returns (Multi)
http://www.gamespot.com/xbox360/action/supermanreturnsthevideogame/review.html?sid=6162291

After the thrill of flying around Metropolis wears off, Superman Returns is nothing more than a below-average, repetitive movie tie-in that doesn't even do the movie tie-in part well.
The Good: Large city to explore; nice soundtrack.
The Bad: There's not much to do in the large city; no variety to mission objectives; story is a confusing mess; boss battles can be insanely frustrating; unless you're a few miles above the city, it looks pretty rough.
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Gameplay 5
Graphics 6
Sound 6
Value 4
Tilt 3
Overall 4.5
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4.5 from GS, 56 at Metacritic for the 360 version (no scores yet for the other versions).

Rainbow Six: Vegas (360)
http://www.gamespot.com/xbox360/action/rainbowsixvegas/review.html?sid=6162184

Rainbow Six is reinvented and reinvigorated for a new age thanks to beautiful visuals and top-notch tactical shooting action.
The Good: Intense tactical action that requires you to use cover realistically; fast rope off of helicopters, rappel down buildings, and smash through windows like a real commando; beautiful visuals that let you battle in a glittering first-world setting; impressive multiplayer suite supports a wide range of cooperative and competitive games.
The Bad: Story features some standard plot devices and lacks a satisfying ending.
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Gameplay 9
Graphics 9
Sound 7
Value 9
Tilt 10
Overall 9.1
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9.1 at GS, 89 at Metacritic.

Sonic The Hedgehog (360)
http://www.gamespot.com/xbox360/action/sonicthehedgehog/review.html?sid=6162205

Sonic the Hedgehog may share its name with the Genesis original, but this game is even more broken than most of the other recent Sonic games have been.
The Good: The environments are at least colorful.
The Bad: Camera frequently gets in the way; full of little graphical and animation glitches; lengthy and frequent loading times always get in the way; town missions are just plain stupid; action stages aren't really much better.
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Gameplay 4
Graphics 6
Sound 6
Value 5
Tilt 3
Overall 4.4
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4.4 from GS, 53 at Metacritic.

Gunpey (DS/PSP)
http://www.gamespot.com/psp/puzzle/gunpey/review.html?sid=6162115

Gunpey's pulsing music and visuals may remind you of Lumines, but don't let it fool you: This addictive puzzle game is unique and bizarre enough to stand on its own merits.
The Good: Line puzzles are a refreshing change from the usual block-based fare; swirling skins and soundtrack just get nuttier as you play; addictive, often insanely difficult gameplay keeps you coming back for more.
The Bad: Some skins are overly busy to the point of distraction; no autosave function.
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Gameplay 7
Graphics 8
Sound 8
Value 8
Tilt 8
Overall 7.7
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7.7 from GS, 66 at Metacritic.

NFL Street 3 (PS2/PSP)
http://www.gamespot.com/psp/sports/nflstreet3/review.html?sid=6162106

The Good: Fast-paced gameplay is good in short doses; new game types add some twists to the formula; respect the street mode has lots to do; graphics look better on the psp.
The Bad: New gameplay twists don't do enough to differentiate it from previous games; frequently frustrating rubber-banding; ea trax: please go away; long load times: please go away; deion branch is still a patriot.
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Gameplay 7
Graphics 7
Sound 6
Value 7
Tilt 7
Overall 6.9
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6.9 for both version (IIRC) at GS, 73 at Metacritic for PS2 version (no score for PSP version).

Final Fantasy III (DS)
http://ds.ign.com/articles/746/746066p1.html

Even though we personally had a blast with Final Fantasy III, this one is going to be a serious judgment call on a gamer-by-gamers basis. For any unassuming casual gamer out there, be warned, as Final Fantasy III hits hard and plays like the demanding days of old. We’re talking tons of random battles (every five or so steps in some cases), inns that don’t revive dead characters, and instant death battles that don’t hesitate to kill unsuspecting explorers that feel the need to wander too far from the… “strongly recommended” path the game delivers. The job system is solid (though definitely trumped from other Final Fantasy games), but the overall experience is very traditional and pretty straightforward. Things like the moogle mail, which allows users to send messages to each other in an Animal Crossing-like manor via the Nitnendo WiFi Connection is pretty cool, but it’s also more of a side activity than a needed addition to the game.

If you’re looking for more of an innovative take on a DS RPG, you may want to check out Magical Starsign instead, or just bite the bullet and grab the recently released Final Fantasy V for GBA. If you think you can hack it with Final Fantasy III, by all means press forward. Just know that the game definitely has its flaws, lacks a ton of DS presentation, and can be incredibly difficult despite its downright entertaining core. For the hardest of the hardcore gamers though, the decision to pick up Final Fantasy III was made well before you read this review. Either you need this game or you don’t. Plain and simple.
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6.0 Presentation
The storytelling is great, though the overall usage of dual screens is very slim. Though the game has a dated feel, it’s still classic Final Fantasy, which will be hit or miss for players.
9.5 Graphics
Stunning. Final Fantasy III looks beautiful, and the FMV work just adds to the already impressive visuals. It’s truly better in 3D.
9.0 Sound
The orchestral score is emotional and driving, though it isn’t the best of the series. The audio provides the necessary mood of the game, and it does great job throughout.
7.0 Gameplay
Final Fantasy III feels a bit dated, but still achieves the classic spirit of the game and is a ton of fun. The job system was deep for its time, but is a bit lacking by today’s standards.
8.5 Lasting Appeal
Along with the main game the DS offers moogle mail and new side quests. The battles can get stale, but the overall adventure could last hardcore players well over the 60 hour mark.
7.8 Overall
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7.8 from IGN, 77 at Metacritic.

The Sopranos: Road to Respect (PS2)
http://ps2.ign.com/articles/747/747268p1.html

Considering how important respect is on the television show, The Sopranos: Road to Respect does a disservice to the series. A linear plot, flawed combat and conversation system hinders the title, and a lack of difficulty doesn't help the replayability factor at all. Only diehard Sopranos fans will be interested, but even they will probably make this disc take a dirt nap after playing through it once.
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5.0 Presentation
Menus are bland and uninteresting, with a generic look. Even the presentation of the few images on these screens aren't visually striking.
5.0 Graphics
The strippers at the Bing appear to have gotten most of the attention for the game. Environments look fine, but there are some generic visuals that pull down this title.
7.0 Sound
Voice acting is quite good, although the music feels out of place and some cursing sequences feel forced.
4.5 Gameplay
An interesting plot idea is crippled with an overpowered combat system, flawed conversation system and linear play.
4.0 Lasting Appeal
Limited extras and no additional difficulty levels makes this one for the die hard Sopranos fan. Even Texas Hold'em with the crew can't help this one.
4.5 Overall
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4.5 from IGN, 44 at Metacritic.

Here's one game (or compilation of games) that has been getting good reviews:
Sega Genesis Collection Available Now for the PS2 and PSP
http://www.gamespot.com/psp/action/segagenesiscollection/review.html?sid=6162286

Featuring many fun, faithfully adapted games from the '80s and '90s, the Sega Genesis Collection offers a fantastic value and a big slice of gaming history.
The Good: Includes a number of the Genesis' finest classics; generally spot-on emulation quality; solid menu system and support for different display settings; some great unlockable extras, featuring various arcade games.
The Bad: No Streets of Rage.
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Gameplay 7
Graphics 7
Sound 7
Value 8
Tilt 10
Overall 8.1
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8.1/8.2 for PSP/PS2 version at GS, 82 at Metacritic for PS2 version (no score for PSP version).

Outlier · Nov 26, 2006

How come FF3 hasn't been reviewed by GS yet? I've been waiting for it forever

RC Cola · Dec 2, 2006

College Hoops 2K7 (Multi)
http://www.gamespot.com/xbox360/sports/collegehoops2k7/review.html?sid=6162605

College Hoops 2K7 is a very good college basketball game, but its value is somewhat lessened by the fact that it follows College Hoops 2K6 by just eight months.
The Good: 200 fight songs; legacy mode is very deep; captures the feel of the college game; "college hoops tonight" show is an excellent addition.
The Bad: Lots of little glitches detract from the experience; isn't vastly different from 2k6; players miss too many layups.
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Gameplay 8
Graphics 7
Sound 8
Value 6
Tilt 9
Overall 7.9
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7.9/7.0 for 360/Xbox version at Gamespot, 81 for the 360 version at Metacritic (no score yet for Xbox version).

Gitaroo Man Lives! (PSP)
http://www.gamespot.com/psp/puzzle/gitaroomanlives/review.html

It's a straightforward remake of Koei's cult-favorite rhythm game, but Gitaroo Man still knows how to rock.
The Good: Playful visual style; eclectic, catchy soundtrack; unique rhythm gameplay.
The Bad: Single-player game is really short; load times are really long; multiplayer options are a little weak.
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Gameplay 7
Graphics 8
Sound 8
Value 6
Tilt 9
Overall 7.7
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7.7 at Gamespot, 79 at Metacritic.

Gothic III (PC)
http://pc.ign.com/articles/747/747903p1.html

With the promise of a gigantic game world within which you're free to do whatever you want, Gothic III is certainly a tantalizing title. It's got the graphical backbone to support the immersive gameplay it aims to deliver, a strong character development system, and a great soundtrack. Unfortunately, there are far too many problems with Gothic III to maintain the immersion. In a game where the illusion of a dynamic, realistic world is so crucial to the experience, technical bugs and awkward design decisions do a marvelous job at hamstringing Gothic III's gameplay. It's still possible to wander aimlessly through forests and deserts engaging whatever challenges you happen upon, which can be entertaining, but you'll never be free from the terrifically awkward combat. It doesn't help that some quests flat out don't work, the game frequently crashes, and little besides the soundtrack is worth listening to. Gothic III gives you a giant world and plenty of choice, but is ultimately engulfed by its own aspirations of complexity.
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4.0 Presentation
Frustrating quest log, but other menus work fine. Lots of bugs that ruin immersion along with fairly frequent crashes.
8.5 Graphics
Goofy character models and awkward animations are overshadowed by gorgeously detailed environments and beast models.
8.0 Sound
An exceptional soundtrack is offset by poor voice acting and abrasive, repetitive battle sounds.
4.5 Gameplay
A good character development system and a plethora of content is mired in broken gameplay and a greatly flawed combat system.
6.0 Lasting Appeal
There's so much to do, but much of it just doesn't work properly.
4.9 Overall
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4.9 from IGN, 63 at Metacritic. This is kind of disappointing. Both Gothic 1 and Gothic 2 got good reviews (~80 at Metacritic, 8+ at IGN). I enjoyed Gothic 2, so I was kind of hoping Gothic 3 would be good as well. Guess not.

Here's Gamespot's review of FF3 for the DS:
http://www.gamespot.com/ds/rpg/finalfantasyiii/review.html?sid=6162504

Not only is this a nicely done remake of an influential, little-seen early chapter from this long-running role-playing series, it's also an all-around solid RPG.
The Good: Great-looking fully 3D visuals breathe new life and personality into an old game; job system helps add variety and depth to all of the combat; lengthy quest will keep you busy for hours and hours.
The Bad: 3D visuals could have been smoother, and the DS's top screen is barely used; game can feel punishing at times, partly due to the lack of save points.
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Gameplay 7
Graphics 8
Sound 7
Value 8
Tilt 9
Overall 7.9
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