Final Fantasy VII
Long recognized as role-playing games par excellence, the Final Fantasy series gets a technological makeover in this installment (and series debut on the PlayStation). Shedding the two-dimensional graphics and limited sound capabilities of its predecessors, Final Fantasy VII features lush 3-D graphics, beautifully animated "movie" sequences, and soundtrack-quality music. Coupled with the game's intricate storyline, endearing characters, and immense yet highly imaginative world, these new advancements make for a quite an engrossing experience.
The story of Final Fantasy VII centers around a solider named Cloud Strife, who joins forces with Avalanche, a group of resistance fighters, to take down an evil mega-corporation known as Shinra. (The fate of the world hangs in the balance, of course.) Truly epic in scope, this four-disc game requires a considerable amount of time to complete-this reviewer gladly gave up over 80 hours of his life to finish it. But it's definitely a rewarding adventure that every PlayStation owner should consider undertaking, especially since it's now one of the low-priced "Greatest Hits" titles. Joe Hon
Pros:Intricate and absorbing storyline with endearing charactersImmense and highly imaginative game worldSpecial battle systemBeautifully animated movie sequences
Cons:Your friends and family may feel neglected
Myst Uru Special Collection - Uru; Ages Beyond Myst; Path of the Shell; To D'ni
The critically acclaimed adventure of Uru: Ages Beyond Myst returns with this special collection that includes all the expansion packs: Uru: Immerse yourself in a story that features the discovery of the lost D'ni civilization. Follow Yeesha, eccentric daughter of Atrus, to discover Lining Books, encounter descendants, and solve puzzles as you adventure through surreal 3D worlds beyond your imagination. To D'ni: The first Uru expansion pack lets the player visit various parts of the D'ni cavern. Myst fans will be astounded by the amount of historical and cultural information included in this expansion, and those new to the greatest adventure game of all time will be driven by the expansion story's major dramatic question: "What happened to the DRC and its Restoration?" Through a series of challenges that send the player searching the island of Ae'gura and two D'ni neighborhoods, the player accesses three sections of the D'ni Great Zero. The Path of the Shell: The second Uru expansion pack takes the player on a journey to uncover Yeesha's destiny. In Uru, the player learns about D'ni's past. In Uru: To D'ni, the player learns about D'ni's present - the failed Restoration by the DRC. In Uru: The Path of the Shell, the player learns about D'ni's future.
Elder Scrolls III Morrowind
Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind beings the legends and lore of the Elder Scrolls games to your Xbox. As you travel through Tamriel, you'll make your way to Dumner and face the dark elves. Along the way you'll meet allies and enemies, discover ancient secrets and go on amazing quests.
Final Fantasy VIII
SquareSoft has always had a sure-fire hit when releasing any of their Final Fantasy titles, and Final Fantasy VIII should be no exception. The basis of a good RPG (role-playing game) has always been the story; spectacular graphics are secondary. Final Fantasy VIII's involved and interesting story line is filled with great twists, well-developed characters, suspense, and romance. As an added bonus, the graphics are beautiful. Everythingfrom the low-lit jazz club to the steam-filled railroad tunnelsis gorgeous and perfectly sets the mood and tone of a scene.
The game mechanics are standard fare for an RPG: acquisition of items and spells, turn-based combat, experience points earned in combat allowing advances in levels. From exploration to battles to dialogue, Final Fantasy VIII has it all. However, Final Fantasy VIII falls to that great weakness of RPGs: random battles. While necessary for advancing in levels, the battles occur with such frequency that they can grow annoying, making for a tedious game experience.
The epic storyline spans four discsover 40 hours of gameplayand is based around a mercenary cadet who finds himself caught up with an underground rebel faction. He winds up in a plot to assassinate the sorceress who has just seized power from the president.
You could complain of limited replay value, but this gripe is of no consequence: the game is such a satisfying experience, it doesn't require replay. Final Fantasy VIII is easily worth both the hype and the wait. You can't buy a much better game. John Cocking
Pros:A story to beat all storiesCharacters worth caring aboutHeyitit's from SquareSoftStunning animations
Cons:Too many random battlesCombat is, as always, turn-based and offers minimal excitementWeak souls might give up after two or three discs of play
Soul Calibur II
Soul Calibur II returns you to the incredible quest of the world's greatest warriors, battling to claim the ultimate sword!
Riddick: Escape From Butcher Bay
Chronicles of Riddick acts as a prequel to "Pitch Black" and "The Chronicles Of Riddick". The enigmatic antihero named Riddick escaped from one of the universe's most violent prisons, Butcher Bay. This game presents the story of how he escaped triple-max security.
We Love Katamari for PS2
We Love Katamari brings back the award-winnig gameplay of Katamari Damacy! The quirky gameplay that captivated the gaming world returns as you contine to roll up anything and everything that gets in your way! The King of All Cosmos grew to stardom after taking all of the Prince's Katamaris and replacing the stars. His fans knew no bounds and wished to see more Katamaris fill the sky. The king of all Cosmos desired to appease all of their requests and recruited the Prince and his cousins to help. Now they are tasked with rolling up even more clumps, each larger and more different than the one before.
Electroplankton
Electroplankton is a truly unique hands-on visual and audio experience. Already a big hit in Japan, this is a new type of game where the goal is to create audio art. Use the DS touch screen to interact with striking underwater creatures. Poke, rub, and draw on the screen to stimulate the odd aquatic creatures and create your own music. Each level is a completely new sound experience, from haunting melodies to head-nodding beats to funky Mario theme remixes. You'll create new songs and experiences every time you play!
Elder Scrolls IV Oblivion
Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion is the most richly detailed and vibrant game-world ever created. This new chapter uses next-generation technologies to create a fully immersive gaming adventure. After the mysterious and untimely death of the Emperor, the throne of Tamriel lies empty. With the Empire ready to crumble, the gates of Oblivion open and demons march upon the land. To end this growing darkness, you must find the lost heir to the throne and unravel the sinister plot that threatens to destroy all of Tamriel. Next-generation graphics for lifelike towns, dungeons, and the most realistic forests ever created in a game optimized for high-definition TVs
New Super Mario Bros.
New Super Mario Bros. for the DS lets you play an updated version of the classic Super Mario Bros. world, with all-new moves taken from other hit Mario games. When Mario and Princess Peach are taking a walk, a bolt of lightning hits Mushroom Castle. Mario goes off to investigate, but he returns Bowser has kidnapped Peach! He'll track down Bowser on the classic, original Super Mario Bros. map with all the moves he's picked up in the other games. Throw turtle shells, butt-stomp to crack open floors you can even use the tanooki suit from Super Mario Bros. 3. Use the DS dual screen to see where you are on a map & play fun minigames. Also includes a two-player mode where Mario and Luigi race and compete for coins.
Halo
More often than not, when a game is in development for more than three years, it does not live up to the hype. Bungie's Halo is the exception. Not only does it meet expectations, it greatly exceeds them. This sci-fi first-person shooter is a nearly perfect blend of gameplay, graphics, and sound.
The story revolves around the conflict between humans and an alien race known as the Covenant. The aliens have discovered a powerful artifacton the ring-shaped planet called Halothat will shift the balance of power, and it's up to the player to stop them. In addition to several first-person-shooter levels, the game offers numerous opportunities to engage in vehicular combat. Both the enemy and allied artificial intelligence are extremely impressive. Enemies will use the terrain and layout to put you in tight spots. Allies will know when to cover and aid you. For instance, if you hop into a jeep, an ally will know to jump in and man the turret on the back of it.
The graphics are exquisitely detailed, but only move at 30 frames per second rather than 60. The sound effects and voice acting are superb. The level design is among the best ever; most of the game is engaging and challenging without being frustrating. There's also high replay value thanks to the built-in single-player, cooperative, and deathmatch modes.
Much like the outstanding GoldenEye 007 for Nintendo 64, Halo raises the bar for console first-person shooters. All console action games will be measured against Halo for years to come. Raymond M. Padilla
Pros:Outstanding game designHigh replay valueImpressive AI
Cons:Several maps are used multiple timesSave functions could have been better implementedGraphics move at 30 frames per second, not 60
Lumines
Lumines is a new puzzle offering a higher level of challenge than the classic "falling blocks" games. Follow the light and sound patterns and form 2x2 blocks to clear the screen before it fills up.
Star Ocean Till the End of Time
Star Ocean: Till The End Of Time takes you to an endless sea of stars, on the edge of the universe, for incredible role-playing. It's four centuries after the first Star Ocean, where 12 heroes risked everything to save the universe. Now, the gods are angry again & a huge meteorite has been sent to destroy the world of Expel. The wheels of destiny are in motion, and 2 people now meet who will face down the gods themselves.
Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic
Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic takes place just a few years after the Mandolorian Wars, thousands of years before the events in the Star Wars movies we know and love. Two Jedi, master Revan and his apprentice Malak, led the Republic's forces to victory and pursued the Mandalorians into deep space only to return as Dark Jedi at the head of a huge fleet of Sith warships. Only the Force powers of the Jedi Bastila prevented the Sith from overwhelming the Republic's weakened forces. At the start of the game Malak has usurped control of the Sith by betraying Revan and has attacked the ship carrying Bastila and yourself. In true Star Wars style, the game begins with a bang.
The storyline could have been a standard coming-of-age yarn but is instead a genuinely interesting adventure told with humor, compassion, and respect for the source material. Your character has a mystical bond with Bastila, and the two of you share some kind of connection to the Sith villains Darth Malak and Darth Revan. The game's planet-hopping adventures are driven by your exploration of these connections and how they relate to your larger goal of discovering the source of the Sith's sudden fleet. During your adventure you can explore side quests minor (such as racing swoops or gambling) and major (such as uncovering the fascinating back stories of your companions). Star Wars fans will get a kick out of the rich lore introduced in the game, particularly the Tatooine storyline that reveals the origin and history of the Sand People.
Gameplay is an abbreviated form of Wizards of the Coast's d20 Star Wars RPG game systemanyone who has played Dungeons & Dragons will be familiar with the abilities, stats, feats, and bonuses in this game. The player creates a character as a member of one of three starting classes (soldier, smuggler, scout) and then later chooses a Jedi class (guardian, consular, sentinel). Joining the player's character are other Jedi, warriors, thieves, droids, a wookiee, and even a Mandolorian. Unlike the faceless non-player characters of other games, each member of the supporting cast has an intriguing history and even agenda. Up to two of these other characters can join your character at any time. Depending on who you chose to take with you, new dialogue and even intra-party arguments come into the game (put the Mandalorian veteran with the Republic patriot and you'll see sparks fly). Combat is real-time turn-based, meaning the turns are seamless but the player has the option of pausing the action at any time to issue orders or direct any character to use a certain Force power, ability, feat, or item.
Graphics range from adequate to exceptional. Building and character models are not impressiveabout what you get in GTA 3. Lightsaber graphics and environmental effects (like waving grass, clouds, and weather) bring the world to life. Battles are just brilliant, with characters pumping out blaster fire at Jedi who dash, dodge, and even deflect the bolts back toward their assailants. Complete with sounds straight out of the movies, the thrilling combat is pure Star Wars.
All in all, Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic is a masterpiece of Star Wars gaming. The pacing, balance of action and dialogue, clever puzzles and quests, and loving attention to detail have set the bar very high for role-playing games in general and Star Wars games in particular. Consider this a must-have game.Mike Fehlauer
Pros:Captivating storylineClever dialogueStar Wars feelTrue story and dialogue support for either Light Side or Dark Side playBrilliant combat graphicsFascinating characters (the loyaland homicidaldroid HK-47 is truly unique)
Cons:Occasional bugs in dialogue, movie playbackCannot transfer equipped gear between characters while on your ship
Wipeout Pure
Wipeout Pure, the latest edition to the popular racing series for the PSP handheld entertainment system, provides an intense, combat racing experience as players choose from five different speed classes and race relentlessly around 16 futuristic, racing tracks. During both single and multi-player gameplay, racing fans will be able to enjoy challenging, action-packed gameplay modes that include Single Race, Tournament, Time Trial, Free Play and Zone Mode (single-player only). Supporting up to eight players via a Wi-Fi link for multiplayer gameplay, gamers will be able to take on their friends and attempt to blast enemy ships to pieces in a fierce competition for top racing honors. Fresh downloadable content that can be saved to a Memory Stick Duo will be made available after launch to expand the racing experience and allow for personalization of the game Media - UMD
Katamari Damacy
Katamari Damashi is a silly, colorful and occasionally hysterical game that's become a hit in Japan. Now it's arrived here and it's unusual gameplay and one-of-a-kind design will make gamers laugh and play for hours! When the King of All Cosmos accidentally destroys the stars in the sky, he orders his pint-sized princely son, to put the twinkle back in the heavens. He decides to do this by rolling everything and anything on earth into clumps, so he can replace what's missing in space.
Enchanted Arms With Comic
In Enchanted Arms, you'll embark on an epic RPG adventure and escape to a fantasy world filled with beautiful cinematic quality graphics, unique characters and bizarre creatures. Take the role of Atsuma, Enchanter in-training and transform from a naïve student to the most powerful savior in a war 1,000 years in the making. Immerse yourself in a deep storyline as you face increasingly difficult challenges and learn to master Atsuma's special fighting and magical abilities. Includes comic book.
Final Fantasy X
Each installment of the Final Fantasy series has featured strong storytelling, characterization, and strategic combat, fun minigames, and hours upon hours of captivating gameplay. The 10th title in the series is no exception. This is the first time a Final Fantasy game has appeared on the PlayStation2, and it takes full advantage of the increased technical capabilities.
The story this time concerns Tidus, a blond-haired star of a sport called Blitzball. While he is playing in a match, Tidus's city is attacked by an evil force called Sin, and everything is destroyed save Tidus and his guardian Auran. The adventure begins as the pair are somehow transported to another world. From here on, it's standard Final Fantasy gameplay: fight battles, manage experience points, learn new powers, and recruit a motley crew of nonplayer characters to join your quest.
The graphics, however, take things to a new level. They are amazing not only for their realism, but also for their imaginative art design. The world these heroes inhabit is breathtakingly beautiful, flowing, and full of inventive surprises. You haven't lived until you've surfed cables high in the air, or ridden a graceful airship through the clouds. The stunning effects are on display when you use magic in combat, summon gigantic monsters, and use fire columns to devastate your foes.
One new element is voice acting. The innovation yields predictably mixed results: it's wonderful to hear spoken dialogue rather than read subtitles, but as with most games translated from Japanese, the acting is mediocre and sometimes unintentionally hilarious.
Still, the game's new graphics engine and solid gameplay are sure to please fans of the series waiting to see what Square has in store for them. While Final Fantasy X doesn't offer much innovation, it also doesn't disappoint. And fortunately, with Final Fantasy XI already in development, the title is still a misnomer. Andrew S. Bub
Pros:Gorgeous graphicsEpic story lineVoice acting
Cons:Little innovationThe voice acting is sometimes laughable
Lunar: Dragon Song
Long, long ago, the world of Lunar was dead. But the Goddess Althena, together with the Dragonmaster and Four Dragons, came and gave life to the land, magically transforming this dead place into a verdant world overflowing with life. She blessed the world of Lunar, and the Dragonmaster swore to her his undying loyalty. He and the 4 Dragons were entrusted with the Goddess's protection, and through her power, a magical world was born. Lunar: Dragon Song is a tale of origins, set 1,000 years prior to the events of the original Lunar: The Silver Star and the adventures of Dragonmaster Alex. The main menu will show pictures of 3 party members, their vitals and current amount of silvers. Also shows the current location and any current actions going on. The Stats menu shows character current statistical information. The items menu allows viewing, using and equipping items. The system menu saves your game. There is also an option called Music Hall which has music found in the game. The Assigned Jobs menu shows the job currently assigned by Gad's Express. Gad's Express Jian and Lucia have worked together for about a year now for Gad's Express. Each town in Lunar - Dragon Song has a Gad's Express in it to take on various jobs for cash. Measured by a 4 star system, jobs are shownby the name of the job, the amount of silver upon completion, difficulty, description, and the location for package delivery.
Viva Pinata Platinum Hits
Viva Piñata invites gamers to create an immersive world where living piñatas inhabit an ever-changing environment. Beginning with a few basic tools, players build and take control of this environment, using their creativity and imagination to attract, protect and manage over 60 different piñata species that can visit their world and make it their home. Utilizing hundreds of customizable elements, players can create a unique piñata paradise.
Crackdown
Crackdown pushes the action-driving hybrid genre into the next generation with the first ever truly 3-D playground. Gamers will enforce justice by any means necessary in Pacific City, a crime-ridden urban center built to encourage the exploration of the full width, depth and height of the city. Coupled with highly innovative co-op gameplay a genre first and an interactive world where nearly anything can be used as a weapon, gamers will be able to create a volatile cocktail of judicial oppression as they clean up the streets. More than 100 licensed tracks, spanning a wide range of styles and genres with 5.1 sound
Kororinpa: Marble Mania
Kororinpa: Marble Mania is a fun and addictive action puzzle game for your Wii Remote. Players tilt and rotate the Wiimote to roll a ball around a maze to reach the goal. Usingan intuitive control scheme, gamers of all ages and skill levels can pick up a Wii Remote and immediately join the fun.
Blue Dragon
Blue Dragon is an epic role-playing game that centers on a young boy named Shu and several of his friends. These unlikely heroes possess the power to control phantom shadows that mirror the actions of their masters, giving Shu and his comrades miraculous strength and magical powers. The warriors can create and develop their combat styles by utilizing different types of Shadow Change, including Sword, Assassin, and Power Magic. Shu and his friends must use the shadows as weapons and wield their skills to save their world from impending doom. Encountering various people on a planet where numerous ancient ruins remain, the characters and their shadows travel through a world full of mysteries and illusions, where the slightest touch can cause reactions of unparalleled magnitude.
The Orange Box
The Orange Box includes all the content of The Black Box for PC, plus the original Half-Life 2 and Half-Life 2: Episode One. Innovative games featured in The Orange Box include Half-Life 2: Episode Two, the second installment in Valve's episodic trilogy advances the award-winning story, leading the player to new locations outside of City 17, as well as the pioneering type of single-player action game Portal, which rewrites the rules for how players approach and manipulate their environment, and Team Fortress 2 an all-new version of the legendary title that spawned team based multiplayer action games with a daring new art style features the most advanced graphics of any Source-based game released to date.
Beautiful Katamari
The King of All Cosmos and the Prince have returned in their newest video game adventure for the insanely popular Katamari series - this time rolling into your Xbox 360! All your favorite relatives from the previous games have come along with you, as well as brand new cousins you've yet to meet! Play as the Prince or one of the cousins to roll up objects in all-new stages and missions as you explore this brand new creative exploration. All the gorgeous, psychadelic graphics you've enjoyed are even better than ever in HD with increased visual depth. Beautiful Katamari features an all-new set of presents to find in the different levels (now they're animated!) as well as a completely new soundtrack to keep you rocking while you roll. In addition to the original, challenging offline game modes, there's now online play too! Challenge and roll against players around the world, as well as play enchanting minigames and download additional content for your game. What are you waiting for? Pick up a copy and get rolling! Share the experience with another player as you race to collect more objects than each other. Tired of battling it out? Make peace and work together in CO-OP mode to roll the same katamari! For the first time ever, the Katamari franchise rolls into the online world. Compete with your friends to roll up everything or as many specific objects as possible. As you are waiting for more online players, also take part in lively mini-games that populate the lobby. The world's ever changing, as your game will continue to give you joy through downloadable content for a fresh experience every time you fire up your system. ESRB Rated E for E for Everyone
Mercury Meltdown: Revolution
Mercury Meltdown Revolution lets you guide a mercury "blob" trough dangerous obstacle courses with your Wii Remote. Take control of a liquid mercury blob, guiding itaround traps, door switches, spikes, moving floors and other hazardous elements in order to complete the level. Use your Wiimote to explore 150 levels and hidden labs, as you get used to the state of the art blob physics.
Super Mario Galaxy
Every hundred years a comet passes over the Mushroom Kingdom and rains down stars and stardust, and as Princess Peach andthe citizens of the kingdom are celebrating the centennial event, Bowser and his legions attack by launching asteroids at the Mushroom Kingdom and crystalizing the Toads! Knowing that Bowser is after Princess Peach, Mario runs to save her. Things go awry as Bowser summons a massive spaceship, abducts Peach's entire castle and hits Mario with a massive magical attack. The next thing he knows, he finds himself on a mysterious moon high above the Mushroom Kingdom! Navigate Mario through a bevy of exciting new worlds and the depths of space, with all new enemies, power-ups and attack skills, as he collects the Stars needed to save Princess Peach! Two player functionality ESRB Rated RP for Rating Pending
Assassin's Creed
Jerusalem, 1191 AD - The Third Crusade is tearing the Holy Land apart. You are an elite Assassin sent to stop the hostilities by suppressing the powers on both the Crusader and Saracen sides. But as you carry out your missions, a conspiracy begins to unfold. You find yourself tangled up in a conflict that threatens not only the Holy Land, but the entire world. Experience the power of a feared Assassin. Your actions can throw your immediate environment into chaos, and your existence will shape the events of this pivotal moment in history. ESRB Rated M for Mature
Mass Effect Limited Edition
Super Monkeyball Banana Blitz
Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz brings the fun of AiAi and friends to the Nintendo Wii! It takes the ground-breaking Nintendo Wii controller and shows the world what it can do - unique new puzzles and madcap multiplayer gameplay add a whole new world. Fun for you and your friends, Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz takes the classic, fan-favorite Monkey Ball gameplay and adds a barrel-load of thrilling new party games.
Grand Theft Auto IV
What does the American Dream mean today?
For Niko Bellic, fresh off the boat from Europe, it is the hope he can escape his past. For his cousin, Roman, it is the vision that together they can find fortune in Liberty City, gateway to the land of opportunity. As they slip into debt and are dragged into a criminal underworld by a series of shysters, thieves and sociopaths, they discover that the reality is very different from the dream in a city that worships money and status, and is heaven for those who have them and a living nightmare for those who don’t.
Beginning with the 1997 release of the original Grand Theft Auto, the GTA series has been one of the most prolific, controversial and down right entertaining franchises in video games history. This pedigree of success guarantees that the highly anticipated eleventh game in the series, Grand Theft Auto IV, will garner at least as much attention if not more.
Return to Liberty City.
The dream as Niko expected it.
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There's always a catch.
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But some skills are international.
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The Plot
Grand Theft Auto IV is a brand new adventure in the GTA universe following the experiences of Nikolai "Niko" Bellic, a new immigrant from an undisclosed eastern European country whose troubled past and the persuasion of his cousin Roman have brought him to the fictional Liberty City. Unfortunately, Niko’s search for the American Dream and a much needed fresh start, hits an immediate snag when the rags to riches story Roman spun to pique Niko's interest is exposed as not only a complete fabrication, but a ploy to enlist Niko’s well-known skills as a tough guy against the ample list of enemies clamoring for Roman’s debt-ridden blood.
Because Roman is the only person Niko knows in Liberty City he begrudgingly accepts his role as Roman’s protector despite the deception. But as time goes on Niko comes into his own, and his experience on the wrong side of the tracks proves more valuable than he could have ever imagined as he fights for survival and later supremacy on the crime ridden streets of Liberty City.
Game Environments
Based on several of the boroughs of New York City and parts of New Jersey, Liberty City, familiar to players of previous games in the series, has been entirely redesigned for GTA IV. Players can expect visible detail down to the weeds growing in the cracks in the sidewalk, cars and buildings of visibly different ages and a much greater level if verticality in the buildings and bridges that they are able to explore as Niko moves through the city streets. In addition, pedestrians in GTA IV are much more realistic. No longer simply moving cardboard cutouts, these NPCs are intelligent, modern, human representations that laugh, cry, eat, drink, use cell phones and ATMs, and talking amongst themselves regardless of Niko’s interaction with them.
Gameplay
Historically GTA games have focused heavily on mission-based play, requiring successful completion of fixed tasks in order for players to progress through the game, but this has changed to a great extent in GTA IV. Players will experience an entirely new and exciting emphasis centered on the blending of on-mission and off-mission play, resulting not only in an increased sense of realism, but more interesting and unrestricted gameplay.
Features
Official features for GTA IV have yet to be released. Stay tuned for more information as the game’s release in early ’08 draws nearer.
BioShock
2K Games
BioShock is the "genetically enhanced" first person shooter that lets you do things never before possible in the genre: turn everything into a weapon, biologically mod your body with plasmids, hack devices and systems, upgrade your weapons and craft new ammo variants, and experiment with different battle techniques in an incredible and unique underwater city. You are a cast-away in Rapture, an underwater Utopia torn apart by civil war. Caught between powerful forces, and hunted down by genetically modified splicers" and deadly security systems, you have to come to grips with a deadly, mysterious world filled with powerful technology and fascinating characters. No encounter ever plays out the same, and no two gamers will play the game the same way. BioShock is loaded with some of greatest, most modifiable weapons to ever blast their way into a shooter. But guns alone won't be enough to defeat the devious AIs of Rapture. There are literally hundreds of other strategies players can use to take out his enemies. Here's just a few things you can do a foe: Brainwash Him to Become Your Personal BodyGuard Invent your own Ammo Types to Prey on his Vulnerabilities Turn his own Security System Against Him Light Him on Fire and Launch Heat Seeking Missiles At him Torment Him with Plagues of Insects Take Research Photos of Him to Learn his Weaknesses Send Him Flying into the Ceiling to Knock him Senseless
BioShock
2K Games
BioShock is the "genetically enhanced" first person shooter that lets you do things never before possible in the genre: turn everything into a weapon, biologically mod your body with plasmids, hack devices and systems, upgrade your weapons and craft new ammo variants, and experiment with different battle techniques in an incredible and unique underwater city. You are a cast-away in Rapture, an underwater Utopia torn apart by civil war. Caught between powerful forces, and hunted down by genetically modified splicers" and deadly security systems, you have to come to grips with a deadly, mysterious world filled with powerful technology and fascinating characters. No encounter ever plays out the same, and no two gamers will play the game the same way. BioShock is loaded with some of greatest, most modifiable weapons to ever blast their way into a shooter. But guns alone won't be enough to defeat the devious AIs of Rapture. There are literally hundreds of other strategies players can use to take out his enemies. Here's just a few things you can do a foe: Brainwash Him to Become Your Personal BodyGuard Invent your own Ammo Types to Prey on his Vulnerabilities Turn his own Security System Against Him Light Him on Fire and Launch Heat Seeking Missiles At him Torment Him with Plagues of Insects Take Research Photos of Him to Learn his Weaknesses Send Him Flying into the Ceiling to Knock him Senseless
Fallout 3
Bethesda
For 200 years, Vault 101, a fallout shelter, has served the surviving residents of Washington DC and its environs, now known as the Capital Wasteland. Though the global atomic war of 2077 left the US all but destroyed, the residents of Vault 101 enjoy a life free from Giant Insects, Raiders, Slavers, and yes, even Super Mutants. Yet one morning, you awake to find that your father has left the comfort and security afforded by Vault 101 for reasons unknown. Leaving the only home you've ever known, you emerge from the Vault into the harsh Wasteland sun to search for your father. Fallout 3 is a singleplayer action role-playing game (RPG) that combines the horrific insanity of the Cold War era theory of mutually assured destruction gone terribly wrong with the kitschy naivety of American 1950s nuclear propaganda.
Mind-Blowing Artificial Intelligence - Facial expressions, gestures, unique dialog, and lifelike behavior are brought together with stunning results Modern super-deluxe HD graphics
Dead Rising
Capcom
Dead Rising follows the harrowing tale of Frank West, a freelance photojournalist after the scoop of a lifetime. In a small suburban town that's overrun by zombies, he escapes to the local shopping mall, thinking it will be safe. Now it's a standoff, with zombies unable to get Frank, but him unable to get out & escape. Fortunately, he's got an entire mall at his disposal. Utilize everything you can find to fight off the flesh-hungry mob and search for the truth behind the horrendous epidemic.
Dead Rising
Capcom
Dead Rising follows the harrowing tale of Frank West, a freelance photojournalist after the scoop of a lifetime. In a small suburban town that's overrun by zombies, he escapes to the local shopping mall, thinking it will be safe. Now it's a standoff, with zombies unable to get Frank, but him unable to get out & escape. Fortunately, he's got an entire mall at his disposal. Utilize everything you can find to fight off the flesh-hungry mob and search for the truth behind the horrendous epidemic.
Dead Rising
Capcom
Dead Rising follows the harrowing tale of Frank West, a freelance photojournalist after the scoop of a lifetime. In a small suburban town that's overrun by zombies, he escapes to the local shopping mall, thinking it will be safe. Now it's a standoff, with zombies unable to get Frank, but him unable to get out & escape. Fortunately, he's got an entire mall at his disposal. Utilize everything you can find to fight off the flesh-hungry mob and search for the truth behind the horrendous epidemic.
Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords
D3 Publisher
Puzzle Quest: Warlords challenges you to create, develop and customize a hero to save the land of Etheria from the evil Lord Bane. To accomplish this, you'll have to prove your worth in a series of turn-based puzzle games.
Burnout Revenge
Electronic Arts
Burnout: Revenge is not about winning. It's not about riding on dubs or gaudy neon lights. It's about being the fastest, most dangerous racer on the road. Fight dirty or go down in flames - the only rule is complete automotive anarchy. All-new cars in three classes (race, muscle and crash) accentuate different play styles and power ups, physically transforming as they become more powerful Tracks spanning three continents and inspired by real-world cities - from Detroit to Rome to Tokyo Online Play - Take Burnout Revenge online for 6 player online action on Xbox Live
Burnout Revenge
Electronic Arts
Burnout: Revenge is not about winning. It's not about riding on dubs or gaudy neon lights. It's about being the fastest, most dangerous racer on the road. Fight dirty or go down in flames - the only rule is complete automotive anarchy. All-new cars in three classes (race, muscle and crash) accentuate different play styles and power ups, physically transforming as they become more powerful Tracks spanning three continents and inspired by real-world cities - from Detroit to Rome to Tokyo Online Play - Take Burnout Revenge online for 6 player online action on Xbox Live
Burnout Revenge
Electronic Arts
Burnout: Revenge is not about winning. It's not about riding on dubs or gaudy neon lights. It's about being the fastest, most dangerous racer on the road. Fight dirty or go down in flames - the only rule is complete automotive anarchy. All-new cars in three classes (race, muscle and crash) accentuate different play styles and power ups, physically transforming as they become more powerful Tracks spanning three continents and inspired by real-world cities - from Detroit to Rome to Tokyo Online Play - Take Burnout Revenge online for 6 player online action on Xbox Live
Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-Earth II
Electronic Arts
Lord Of The Rings: Battle For Middle-Earth II allows you to continue the adventure as you battle the forces of Mordor. Wage war in the North and assume command of the most storied civilizations in all of Middle-Earth history: The Elven and Dwarven armies. You can also choose to fight on the side of Evil with heroes and creatures that have never been seen in The Lord of the Rings films. Defend or overtake never before seen lands such as Dol Guldur, The Misty Mountains, and Mirkwood as you unleash powerful new weapons and abilities - summon dragons, cause volcanoes to erupt, or bring down a cataclysmic lightning strike. Create your own hero with in-game avatars & customized RTS units
The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-Earth II
Electronic Arts
Lord Of The Rings: Battle For Middle-Earth II allows you to continue the adventure as you battle the forces of Mordor. Wage war in the North and assume command of the most storied civilizations in all of Middle-Earth history: The Elven and Dwarven armies. You can also choose to fight on the side of Evil with heroes and creatures that have never been seen in The Lord of the Rings films. Defend or overtake never before seen lands such as Dol Guldur, The Misty Mountains, and Mirkwood as you unleash powerful new weapons and abilities - summon dragons, cause volcanoes to erupt, or bring down a cataclysmic lightning strike. Create your own hero with in-game avatars & customized RTS units
The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-Earth II
Electronic Arts
Lord Of The Rings: Battle For Middle-Earth II allows you to continue the adventure as you battle the forces of Mordor. Wage war in the North and assume command of the most storied civilizations in all of Middle-Earth history: The Elven and Dwarven armies. You can also choose to fight on the side of Evil with heroes and creatures that have never been seen in The Lord of the Rings films. Defend or overtake never before seen lands such as Dol Guldur, The Misty Mountains, and Mirkwood as you unleash powerful new weapons and abilities - summon dragons, cause volcanoes to erupt, or bring down a cataclysmic lightning strike. Create your own hero with in-game avatars & customized RTS units
Microsoft Flight Simulator X Deluxe
Microsoft
Microsoft Flight Simulator X Deluxe Edition lets you immerse yourself in this dynamic, living world of fun. Challenge yourself by flying any of 50+ missions all over the world. Whether it's your first time on the tarmac, or you're a Flight Simulator veteran, get set for adventure on a global scale. Includes 24 airplanes, 45 high-detail airports and 38 cities, and more!
Soul Calibur IV
Namco
The Classic Fighter Returns
Return to witness the epic struggle between the spirit sword, Soul Calibur, and the cursed sword, Soul Edge, in Soul Calibur IV. Warriors from far reaches of the galaxy battle to control the powerful swords and use them for their own goals. Should these fighters succeed, they will face the ultimate judgment. The ongoing story continues with new revelations, exciting new gameplay features and stunning visuals. And perhaps most exciting of all, a character from the Star Wars universe will also make an appearance.
Key Features
Newest addition to the Soul Calibur series features thrilling next-gen graphics brimming with intensityContinues the struggle between the spirit sword, Soul Calibur, and the cursed sword, Soul EdgeFeatures the legendary Yoda as a guest characterExpanded customization options let you give your character a personalized look and specific abilitiesTake both customized characters and original favorites online for the first time
Exclusive Special Characters
Beloved Star Wars legend Jedi Master Yoda appears as a guest character in the Xbox 360 version of Soul Calibur IV. In addition to that thrilling fact, you'll also discover expanded customization options that let you bestow your character with a personalized look and specific abilities. And, for the first time, you'll be able to take both customized characters and original favorites online to challenge an entire world of fans. Completely reinvented but with the same intensity you've come to know, Soul Calibur IV provides an adventure that never disappoints.
Thrilling Next-Gen Graphics
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Online Challenges!
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The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
Nintendo
Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past is a retelling of the venerable series' first game with a quest for up to four players all on one cartridge. The game is a mix of action and puzzles where Link must travel between the Light and Dark worlds to rescue Princess Zelda. In the multiplayer game, Four Swords, between two to four players take on the roles of young adventurers who answer a challenge from the Triforce. They must brave the dangers of multiple dungeons in a quest to find the Master Sword. Their strength will be tested by fierce monsters, their wisdom tested by complex puzzles, and their courage tested by having to cooperate with each other to overcome obstacles.
Final Fantasy I & II Dawn of Souls
Nintendo
Final Fantasy I & II: Dawn of Souls changes the classic gaming series' at its origins. Now you can feel how it was for those old-school role-players, when they discovered its intense, immersive gameplay! All-new dungeons and dialogue scenes to challenge and thrill gamers
Sonic Advance & Sonic Pinball Party
Sega Of America, Inc.
In Sonic Advance, Dr. Robotnik has concocted a diabolical scheme, and it's up to you to stop him. You'll need all the help you can get, because this all-new quest gets more challenging by the minute with tons of puzzles and traps Play as Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, or Amy as you uncover the hidden Chaos Emeralds to transform into Super Sonic for the final battle against Dr. Robotnik!
With Sonic Pinball, Amigo the monkey and NiGHTS join Sonic and his friends for some lively pinball competition, multi-player party games, and of course, lots of ring gathering. Once you've built up a nice pile of rings, head to Casinopolis for Roulette, Slots, and Bingo. Connect to Sonic Adventure 2 - Battle and Sonic Adventure DX - Director's Cut, to transfer your Chao to your GameCube
Sonic Advance & Sonic Pinball Party
Sega Of America, Inc.
In Sonic Advance, Dr. Robotnik has concocted a diabolical scheme, and it's up to you to stop him. You'll need all the help you can get, because this all-new quest gets more challenging by the minute with tons of puzzles and traps Play as Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, or Amy as you uncover the hidden Chaos Emeralds to transform into Super Sonic for the final battle against Dr. Robotnik!
With Sonic Pinball, Amigo the monkey and NiGHTS join Sonic and his friends for some lively pinball competition, multi-player party games, and of course, lots of ring gathering. Once you've built up a nice pile of rings, head to Casinopolis for Roulette, Slots, and Bingo. Connect to Sonic Adventure 2 - Battle and Sonic Adventure DX - Director's Cut, to transfer your Chao to your GameCube
LittleBigPlanet
Sony Computer Entertainment
Imagine a world that's yours to shape, build and explore. LittleBigPlanet puts the power of absolute creation into your own hands. If you can see it, you can enhance it. If you can't see it, you can invent it. Start by learning about your character's powers to interact physically with the environment. There are places to explore, creative resources to collect and puzzles to solve - all requiring a combination of brains and collaborative teamwork. Characters have the power to move anything in this glued and stitched-together 3D landscape; they have the power to design, shape and build both objects and entire locations for others to view and play. There's no complicated level editor; all of these skills can be learned by simply playing the game. Immerse yourself in an organic world that's just waiting to be personalized. Make your world as open or as secretive to explore as you like. When it's ready, you can invite anyone within the LittleBigPlanet community to come and explore your patch - or you can go and explore everybody else's.
Unlimited possibilities for user-created content - customize everything - your characters, the landscape around them and your own patch on LittleBigPlanet Online and offline multiplayer modes - play alone, work as a team or get competitive LittleBigPlanet global community to get involved with - includes player comments, rankings and easy communication with new and existing friends
Sword of Mana
Square
Sword Of Mana is a thrilling role-playing action game where you'll become the hero of a far-off world. Based on the storyline of Final Fantasy Adventure, you'll go on a great quest to destroy monsters and save one of your world's greatest wonders!
Final Fantasy III
Square Enix
The only Final Fantasy that was never localized in the United States, Final Fantasy III has been reborn, incorporating the latest in portable gaming technology. Using the features of the Nintendo DS to their fullest, Final Fantasy III features graphics that have been reworked and remodelled in 3D, while maintaining the mythical Final Fantasy look and feel. This is the fans' chance to complete the circle. The legend of Final Fantasy III is reborn.
Final Fantasy IV
Square Enix
Final Fantasy IV for DS is a must-play for those looking to jump into the best-selling RPG franchise in the world. Four elemental Crystals, each possessing awesome power, lie scattered throughout the realm. However, men are quick to covet things that offer strength, and easily corrupted by the might that they possess. Seduced by the promised power of the Crystals, the kingdom of Baron begins employing unprovoked force to seize them from peaceful nations. The dark knight Cecil - Lord Captain of Baron's elite force, the Red Wings - is ordered by his king to obtain the Crystals, but soon begins to question the monarch's motives. Stricken with grief at his own actions, yet burdened by his loyalty to his country and his personal sense of honor, Cecil at last decides to turn from the path of darkness and destruction. Enraged, the king accuses him of disloyalty, strips Cecil of his command, and sends him off to slay a mysterious beast that lurks in the nearby Valley of Mist. Cecil embarks on a fateful journey that will bring trials, betrayals, friendship, loss, and self-discovery. Train and customize Whytkin by playing a variety of mini-games and challenge another player to head-to-head battle via local wireless connection
Chrono Trigger
Square Enix
After 13 long years, the role playing game of the ages finally returns with Chrono Trigger for the Nintendo DS. This chapter begins when a newly developed teleportation device malfunctions, and young Crono must journey through time to rescue a mysterious girl from an intricate web of past and present perils. Enhanced with Nintendo DS's dual-screen presentation, stylus controls, and a host of great new features, this classic tale returns to a modern, portable platform.
After 13 long years, the role playing game of the ages finally returns with Chrono Trigger for the Nintendo DS. View larger.
Gameplay is enhanced with Nintendo DS's dual-screen, stylus controls, and a host of great new features. View larger. And so the Story Goes. . .
Through a chance encounter amid the festivities of Guardia's Millenial Fair in Leene Square, the young hero, Crono, meets an adventurous girl named Marle. The two decide to explore the fair together and soon find themselves at an exhibition of the Telepod the latest invention by Crono's long-time friend, Lucca.
Marle, fearless and brimming with curiosity, volunteers to assist in a demo. However, an unanticipated malfunction sends her hurtling through a rift in the dimensions. Taking hold of the girls pendant just before she's whisked away,
Explore the past Prehistory, Antiquity, and the Middle Ages Present, Future, and even the End of Time. View larger.
This game utilizes a revised version of the groundbreaking Active Time Battle (ATB) System. View larger. Crono bravely follows in pursuit, but the world into which he emerges is one of four centuries ago. In Chrono Trigger prepare yourself to journey into the forgotten past, distant future, and even to the very End of Time.
The Worlds of Past, Present and Future
In Chrono Trigger you'll journey back to Prehistory (65,000,000 B.C.) where humans and reptiles battle to wipe each other from existence. Antiquity (12,000 B.C.) is an age where the world is divided between people whose continent is buried in snow, and the magical kingdom of Zeal, a highly advanced civilization. The Middle Ages (600 A.D.) is an era of swords and sorcery, a dark time when the armies of Fiendlord rule over the land.
The Present (1000 A.D.) is the time period in which Crono, Lucca and Marle live. It is a bright and peaceful age. However, in the Future (2300 A.D.), an era of despair has taken hold with rogue machines ruling the world. After the day of the apocalypse in 1999 A.D., the prosperous civilization of humanity crumbled and the remaining people struggle to stay alive. And, finally, there remains the End of Time a place with no era to call its own. This confluence of time's streams transcends spatiotemporal boundaries. It is here at the gravitational center for all temporal flotsam that Spekkio the Master of War serves as your guide on time's treacherous roads.
Battle Systems and gameplay
This game utilizes a revised version of the groundbreaking Active Time Battle (ATB) System. Chrono Trigger features exhilarating combat in which the clock is constantly ticking. Characters must first wait as the ATB gauges charge, and then perform an action. This makes strategic timing a crucial element in your battle plan. In addition to standard attacks, each character has an array of special Tech skills and powerful combos known as Dual and Triple Techs. Cooperate with other characters to unleash over 50 unique and devastating moves!
Chrono Trigger utilizes great story-telling, interesting characters, action-packed gameplay, and the unique controls of the Nintendo DS to deliver a fun and well-rounded role-playing game on a portable platform.
Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Vegas
UBI Soft
Rainbow Six: Vegas presents a new team of Rainbow Warriors, as they take to the streets of America. The streets of Las Vegas are chaotic, an escalating terrorist siege in "Sin City" threatens to take world terrorism to new, uncontrollable heights. The future of global security hangs in the balance as you battle to defend classic Vegas locations and environments like Freemont Street, The Strip, and Casinos. Experience Las Vegas like never before through revolutionary next-generation technology as you work against the clock to keep one of the world's most recognizable cities from utter devastation. Next-generation AI - Encounter deadlier, more skilled enemies who work together as a group to counter every move you make Customize your multiplayer experience - Your character evolves as you play online, unlocking new equipment and achievements as you go
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