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PrintLast year, online was da bomb.
The year before, it was all about big consoles.
This year? There is so little that's new. Little that's surprising. Little that's fresh or blockbuster. Such a disappointment. There's so much more of the same.
More Madden, more Tony Hawk, more Star Wars. More retreads and sequels and reissues for other consoles. Many of the names on your 2003 holiday shopping list popped up as well in 2002. The Lord of the Rings, Onimusha, Ratchet and Clank, Jak & Daxter, Terminator.
Yes ... here, too, Ah-nuld is back. And every year is a Super Mario year (except where the Penguins are concerned).
BORE-ing?
Well, not exactly.
The tried and true isn't necessarily trite and unappealing. We uncovered some interesting redos and well-done updates in old familiar lines. We found some edgy gems among the familiar cubic zirconia. And we're still optimistic about "Deus Ex: Invisible War" and a few other late bloomers due next month.
You have to wonder, though: Where, this year, were the "Metroid Primes?" The "Jet Set Radios"? The ground-breaking stuff that made us grin or grunt over our game controls in years past?
In hardware, the only major development was Nokia's N-Gage, a pricey ($300) cell-phone/hand-held hybrid that makes it ridiculously tough to change games. We don't expect that sucker to seriously threaten Nintendo's hand-held monolith, Game Boy.
2003 isn't a total groaner.
But it sure reminds us of Hollywood -- same characters, same stories, just dressed up in new and (sometimes) improved sequels. We should know. We've played more than 200 games to help you to compile your holiday wish list.
In fact, we've spent so much more time in the virtual world -- grinding in a line with Tony Hawk, warring online with SOCOM's Navy SEALS, dangling from power lines with agents Sam Fisher and Nikki Connors, auditioning for American Idol, flying an X-wing with Luke Skywalker, spinning anew around Vice City, grappling with ghoulies -- that we may have missed something in the real world:
Did Neo win the California governorship?
Once again, in our fifth annual holiday guide, we've permitted a handful of games to reach the lofty level of a four-star rating. They're our Best In Show for your 27 remaining Shopping Daze.
We didn't select a Worst In Show, though: Games are rated from 
(the lowest) to (near perfect). The titles listed here were judged by your faithful gamer correspondents -- with contributions from Sports Writer Chuck Finder and Weekend Editor Scott Mervis -- as worthy of your gift-giving consideration.
Don't forget the key abbreviations: GBA for Game Boy Advance; GC for GameCube, PS2 for PlayStation 2; PSX for PlayStation, X for Xbox and PC for Personal Computer. Game prices start at $19.99 for GBA and some console titles (didn't expect a test so soon, did you?), and work their way up to $50 for most console games.
We've also included the handy parental ratings: E for everyone, T for teens and M for Mom and Dad Should Know This Contains Mature Content.
Let the gaming begin.
SHOOTERS | CHILDREN/FAMILY | DRIVING/RACING
PLATFORMS, PUZZLES | SPORTS | EXTREME SPORTS
FLYING | WAR GAMES | SIMS | FIGHTING | MUSIC/GADGETS
| TOP PICKS |
CALL OF DUTY (Activision; PC; rated T) -- Look out, "Medal of Honor." Your turf has been invaded by a newcomer armed with what it takes to be the year's best World War II first-person shooter. Intense action, well-developed campaigns and superlative graphics shine in 24 missions played by U.S., British and Russian soldiers. Story could be fleshed out, but the replay camera, showing your enemy's perspective of an attack, is a clever touch. Sound, too, is excellent, peppering you with gunfire and explosions so realistic you'll seem to lose your hearing after the blasts.
EYE TOY (Sony; PS2; ; rated E) -- The future of gaming lies in this nifty plug-in camera that dissolves the fourth wall and puts you on screen as the game's lead character. A dozen accompanying mini-games -- some better than others -- require you to use your hands, feet or body rather than a controller. "Rocket Rumble" is pointless, but "Kung Foo" is a hoot as you slash, chop and dice jabbering ninjas. More games are promised. Trust us, it's addictive.
FREEDOM FIGHTERS (Electronic Arts; GC, PS2; Xbox, PC; ; rated T) -- The Iron Curtain still shrouds Europe and the Russian Army owns the streets of New York. Now it's up to you, plumber-turned-freedom fighter Chris Stone, to head the underground resistance in this action-shooter hybrid that earned one of our rare top ratings earlier this year. Clever "what if?" premise comes to life through stunning visuals, oh-so-smooth weapon controls and impressive artificial intelligence that guarantees a different experience each time you head out of New York's sewers to take on those Red invaders.
GRAND THEFT AUTO III/GRAND THEFT AUTO: VICE CITY (Rockstar; Xbox; 
; rated M) -- Bad boys, bad language and bad attitudes -- how can so much bad be oh so good? Finally, the controversial franchise with the over-the-top violence and offensive content that made national headlines and terrified parents debuts on Xbox. Commandeer cars, make mayhem, target anyone you want as a street-level thug rising through the underworld of an entire living, breathing, 24-7 city that is literally at your fingertips. It's as non-PC as you can get, but even detractors must agree that Rockstar has pulled off something so immersive it's magnificent. Not for children or most teens.
OTOGI -- MYTH OF DEMONS (Sega; Xbox; ; rated T) -- Japanese swords and sorcery mingle in one of the year's most beautiful and unique fighting games. Lent an ethereal feel by dissonant music and the graceful, balletic movements of its gravity-defying hero, Otogi follows a newly resurrected warrior who uses weapons and colorful spells to battle an army of innovatively rendered demon foes through rich landscapes that buckle and break as he wreaks havoc.
PRINCE OF PERSIA: THE SANDS OF TIME (Ubi Soft; GC, PS2, Xbox, PC, GBA; , rated T) -- Gorgeous graphics, settings so lifelike you can feel the desert sun on your skin, compelling story and dazzling moves all combine to pull you in and hook you fast. Centuries before Neo starts running up walls in "The Matrix," the Prince gets the trick down cold, defying gravity as he spins and twirls in combat or negotiates tiny ledges. And who can walk away from an adventure that exhorts you to try again when you die, saying: "Wait, wait! That's not how it happened!"
SPHINX AND THE CURSED MUMMY (THQ; Xbox, PS2, GC; ; rated T) -- When it comes to action-adventure games, this, too, is the complete package, all set in ancient, magical Egypt and brimming with pyramids, animal-headed gods and scarabs. You guide the lives of the supernatural, monkey-tailed Sphinx and the mummified Prince Tut until they intersect in an effort to save the world. Luscious, lively and addictive, anyone who loves a mixture of puzzle-solving, platforming and fighting will want to return again and again.
STAR WARS: KNIGHTS OF THE OLD REPUBLIC (LucasArts; Xbox, PC; ; rated T) -- Journey back thousands of years to the distant past of the Star Wars mythos in this epic, third-person adventure that sprawls across seven worlds. The unusual combat system might take some getting used to, but the film-worthy plot, role-playing elements and breadth of skills to master make this an unforgettable experience that will appeal to everyone.
VIEWTIFUL JOE (Capcom; GC; ; rated T) -- He's cute, he's courageous, he's every kid's dream. Who wouldn't want to be Joe, saving the world and winning the girl after he goes to the movies and finds himself inexplicably sucked into the film. Suddenly, he's replaced movie hero Captain Blue; he's garbed in a pint-sized red costume, and he's got his hands full dodging bullets and beating the tar out of goofy little skeletons. Distinctive cel-shaded 2-D settings, fast-paced gameplay and campy on-screen exclamations add up to sweet-natured fantasy fun.
| ACTION-ADVENTURE |
BATMAN: RISE OF SIN TZU (Ubi Soft; GC, PS2, Xbox, GBA; ; rated T) -- Crack your knuckles and prepare to take on an all-new villain, Sin Tzu, as the Caped Crusader or three of his batty cohorts. Terrific animation, martial arts attacks and bat-gadgets make this third-person adventure with destructible environments a knockout. More save points, more moves and more doohickeys might have merited a four-star rating.
DISNEY'S THE HAUNTED MANSION (TDK Interactive; GC, PS2, Xbox; ; rated T) -- Reminiscent of last year's first-rate "Kingdom Hearts," this ghost-busting tale is no Mickey Mouse attempt to cash in on Disney's theme park ride. As Zeke Holloway, you prowl through the mansion with a sacred light beacon to free 999 unhappy souls trapped inside. Graphics and lighting are appropriately spooky, and there's plenty to explore in secret rooms, disappearing staircases and pictures that swallow you up. Keep track of grandfather clocks throughout the house -- they signal the save points.
ENTER THE MATRIX (Atari; GC, PS2; Xbox, PC; ; rated T) -- Extensive movie cut scenes and dialogue that sheds light on the dense back story of "The Matrix" trilogy make this a must-own companion piece for film fans. Exasperating controls hamper your flight from vicious Agent Smith clones, and some scenes are so dark that you wonder if game developers were wearing Trinity's sunglasses. But all is forgiven in the joy of running up walls and dodging bullets like Neo, or slipping behind the controls of Niobe's hover-ship for a fly-or-die chase.
GLADIUS (LucasArts; GC, PS2, Xbox; ; rated T) -- Where's Russell Crowe? Gladiatorial combat with odd Nordic overtones takes center stage in this turn-based combat/role-playing adventure. Statuesque Ursula and Romanesque Valens recruit for their gladiator schools and veer toward a date with the world's destiny. Not everyone will enjoy the slow-paced combat system, deep and complex as it is, but those with patience and a taste for strategy will spend hours on this epic.
GRABBED BY THE GHOULIES (Microsoft; Xbox; ; rated E) -- Irresistibly cute monsters, ambulatory TV sets and doors, tons of breakable objects and outstanding animation conspire to make this haunted-mansion romp a winner despite its short length and simplicity. You play Cooper, a wide-eyed kid out to rescue his girlfriend from the ghoulies who inhabit Ghoulhaven Hall, which includes a roomful of zombies cutting the rug to an undead DJ.
INDIANA JONES AND THE EMPEROR'S TOMB (LucasArts; PS2, Xbox, PC; ; rated T) -- An early release this year, but still a goodie for holiday season. Indy cracks his bullwhip, dons his trademark hat and wallops bad guys in the jaw as he gallivants through exotic locales, solving puzzles and duking it out with villains while racing against Nazis and the Asian underworld to find a powerful artifact.
LORD OF THE RINGS: THE RETURN OF THE KING (Electronic Arts; GC, PS2, Xbox, PC, GBA; ; rated T) -- Though uneven and a bit too linear and combat-oriented, the final incarnation of the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy by EA provides some of the most amazing cinematic moments ever in gaming, starting with Gandalf smiting Orcs left and right smack in the middle of the battle of Helm's Deep. Play as all the characters in the Fellowship as the battle for the One Ring winds down. We missed having a 360-degree camera, but cut scenes from the upcoming movie balanced things out. Great for action lovers, but best for Tolkien fanatics. PC players: don't get this one confused with Vivendi Universal's inferior "Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring."
MANHUNT (Rockstar; PS2; ; rated M) -- Extremely violent, extremely dark game will be the most controversial of the year. No surprise there, given that Rockstar also brought out the industry's last hot-button title, "Grand Theft Auto: Vice City." But "Manhunt" makes "Vice City" look like the Emerald City, opening with a faked execution of convicted murderer James Cash and then turning Cash loose to hunt or be hunted to the death by ravening thugs. Graphics, lighting and sound are all top-notch. This is also a game with two modes -- fetish and hardcore -- and a hero who snaps necks with gruesome cracking noises, slashes throats with a straight razor and talks nonchalantly about sex and drugs. Be forewarned: anyone too young for an R-rated movie has no business playing this game.
ROBIN HOOD: DEFENDER OF THE CROWN (Capcom; PS2, Xbox, PC; ; rated T) -- Strange, borders-on-boring battle system mars this pretty 12th-century adventure, but it's worth enduring for the catapult attacks. Robin Hood, sultry Maid Marian and the Merry Men seek to unseat evil Prince John and fulfill missions that, depending on gameplay choices, arrive in at least eight different endings. No ground gets broken here, but you can't help but be tickled by the artificial intelligence's snide sense of humor when it critiques your lousy archery skills.
ROGUE OPS (Kemco; GC, PS2, Xbox; ; rated M) -- We're always suckers for a tough chick in charge, and we buy the story that sets up Nikki Connors as a secret agent who's out to avenge her murdered husband and daughter. Initially, Nikki brings to mind "Splinter Cell's" stealthy, lethal commando Sam Fisher, but she's not always as smooth. Graphics and environments are OK, but controls are confusing and animation is a mixed bag -- sometimes Nikki runs or climbs like a real person, sometimes like the clunky product of an Erector set. Still, it's about time for a strong, competent woman to shoulder her way into the stealth-action genre.
STAR WARS JEDI KNIGHT: JEDI ACADEMY (LucasArts; Xbox, PC; ; rated T) -- Nothing in gaming can match hearing the telltale hum of a lightsaber and the crackle of electricity as it slashes through the air in the hands of a master warrior. Jedi Academy brings all that and more to this fast-paced third-person adventure as Jedi cadet Jaden Kor embarks on missions that bring him into contact with the worlds and characters that made the franchise famous. Even dated graphics can't detract from the rush of wielding awesome force powers and pulling off stunning lightsaber moves.
| HORROR |
CASTLEVANIA: LAMENT OF INNOCENCE (Konami; PS2; ; rated M) -- Where do they get the goofy names for some of these "Castlevania" titles? Ah, forget the baffling name and go hunting for vampires in the franchise's maiden offering for PS2. Graphics are solid, and sound -- so often shortchanged -- is particularly worthy of note.
SILENT HILL 3 (Konami; PS2, PC; ; rated M) -- Only the strong will dare to risk the disturbing, hallucinatory nightmares that plague everyone who dares to visit the sinister town of Silent Hill. Heroine Heather Morris -- the series' first female lead -- fights off zombies and assorted critters while she traces the threads of her forgotten past and questions all she believes in this cinematic, terrifying episode. Parental alert: This one is rated M for good reason.
| ROLE-PLAYING GAMES |
FINAL FANTASY (Square Enix; PS2, PC, GBA; ; rated T) -- Venerable series breaks new ground this season with three titles, all offering the fanciful settings and dense storylines we've come to expect. A sequel to 2001's "Final Fantasy X," this year's "X-2" for the first time features a female lead and mission-based gameplay for the PS2 console. "FF Tactics" brings surprising detail to the handheld GBA screen, and "FF XI" marks the series' entry into massively multiplayer online PC gaming. It's definitely worth your time, but it sure could be easier to install.
STAR WARS GALAXIES: AN EMPIRE DIVIDED (LucasArts; PC; ; rated T) -- Find your own place in the "Star Wars" universe as a roaring, furry Wookie or one of those octopus-headed Twillek women. This massively multiplayer RPG lets you dive in and build your own new life alongside Luke Skywalker and his pals on Tatooine, Endor and all those other lands far, far away. Take points off, though, for the inability to pilot your own spacecraft -- it's passenger-only mass transit as you zip between thoughtfully imagined worlds. Still miss flying? Check out "Rogue Squadron 3."
THE LEGEND OF ZELDA Nintendo; GC; ; rated E) -- Limited-edition compilation includes four series classics -- "The Legend of Zelda," "Zelda II: The Adventure of Link," "Ocarina of Time" and "Majora's Mask" -- along with a demo of this year's "The Wind Waker" and other treats. Get it bundled with a $99.99 GameCube console, by buying other selected Nintendo GameCube titles or by subscribing to Nintendo Power magazine.
THE TEMPLE OF ELEMENTAL EVIL (Atari; PC; ; rated T) -- Dungeons and Dragons campaign jumps to video in this single-player rescue mission that must eventually end in the dreaded temple. Turn-based combat system is complex, environments are sumptuous and the array of monsters is impressive. Folks who don't have more than a passing acquaintance with Dungeons and Dragons lore, though, run the risk of getting lost.
| SHOOTERS |
HALO (Microsoft; PC; ; rated M) -- 2001's Xbox launch title spawns an equally superb port for PC devotees. If possible, graphics are even better, but beware: you'll need a top-of-the-line video card to run it smoothly. Multiplayer mode with new weapons and vehicles makes up for the omission of Xbox version's popular cooperative-play option.
MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: OPERATION SURMA (Atari; GC, PS2; Xbox; GBA; ; rated T) -- Your mission, should you decide to accept it, is to step into the role of special agent Ethan Hunt and stop the Surma Corporation from seizing control of the world's computers. "Operation Surma" isn't due for release until next week, but our preview copy hints at lots of action and the variety of cool weapons you'd expect from IMF.
STAR WARS REBEL STRIKE:ROGUE SQUADRON 3 (LucasArts; GC; ; rated T) -- Luke Skywalker and cult-favorite pilot Wedge take on new air- and space-combat missions in all kinds of film-inspired ships. Improves on previous "Rogue Squadron" titles by adding better plots and cinematics. New cut scenes and more interaction between pilots create an immersive experience that will have you believing you're smack in the midst of the great Galactic Civil War.
TERMINATOR 3: RISE OF THE MACHINES (Atari; GC, PS2, Xbox, PC, GBA; ; rated T) -- Getting the chance to fight as Ah-nuld isn't nearly enough compensation for enduring this sub-par game. As the "good" Terminator, Schwarzenegger is arguably more animated than in real life, but even that doesn't say much about bland graphics or gameplay marred by infuriating, involuntary camera swings. Dank tunnels and other settings are flat, confusing and look much the same. Missions are monotonous and short. Worst of all, enemy machines are too darn easy to kill.
TIME CRISIS 3 (PS2; Namco; ; rated T) Spring for the combo set of game and orange gun controller, or don't bother with this scaled-down copy of the popular arcade attraction. There's not much of a story -- something about keeping invaders from gaining a foothold on your tiny island nation. But shooting is the draw here, and the smooth-shifting controller more than delivers the action. Pick this up, and you'll never dig in your pockets for arcade change again.
| CHILDREN/FAMILY |
THE FAIRLY ODDPARENTS: BREAKIN' DA RULES (THQ; GC, PS2, Xbox, GBA; ; rated E) -- Despite the popularity of the Nickelodeon television cartoon, we've never quite gotten the Fairly OddParents. Maybe it's because we're fairly odd parents ourselves. But kids will enjoy helping these off-key fairy godparents and their charge, Timmy, while they rescue his lost rule book and avoid the clutches of nasty baby sitter Vicki in 49 hours. Fans will enjoy the witty patter, bad puns and unlockable TV episode and clips.
LOONEY TUNES: BACK IN ACTION (Warner Bros.; GC, PS2,.GBA; ; rated E) -- Love the cartoons? Giggle at the film? Dive in and play as Bugs Bunny or Daffy Duck in this licensed companion piece. But keep an eye out for those falling ACME gizmos . . .
MARIO PARTY 5 (Nintendo; GC; ; rated E) -- Everyone's favorite plumber, Princess Peach, Yoshi and Wario check out new game boards, race to collect stars and catch power-up capsules from magical gumball machines in this party collection of mini-games. One-player mode lets solo gamers have fun, too, by taking on the Koopa Kids. Maintains the Mario mold without breaking much new turf, but devoted fans won't care.
MEGA MAN (Capcom; GC, PS2, GBA; ; rated E) -- Mega Man and Zero turn 15 this year, and they're popping up everywhere. PS2 owners get "Mega Man X7," a zippy 2-D and 3-D mix that pits Mega Man against giant machines in one of the season's few mech-warrior titles. "Mega Man Network Transmission" is a bright, cartoony 3-D adventure for GameCube and "Zero 2" allows two players to battle each other on the GBA. Happy Birthday, little blue buddy.
SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS: BATTLE FOR BIKINI BOTTOM (THQ; GC, PS2, Xbox, GBA; ; rated E) -- Swim down to the pineapple under the sea, and help our holey hero and his pals, Patrick and Sandy Cheeks, thwart the evil Plankton. Explore SpongeBob's house, collect shiny castoffs and save the world, but try not to lose your square underwear to dangerous robots. Faithfully recreates the charm and snappy dialogue of the popular TV series with both spoken words and printed dialogue boxes -- a smart touch that's bound to please fledgling readers and their families.
SUPER MARIO BROTHERS ADVANCE 4: SUPER MARIO BROTHERS 3 (Nintendo; GBA; ; rated E) -- It's back to the Mushroom Kingdom to battle anew with Bowser and his brawling kids. More Mario, more modes, more multiplayer fun. Players with E-reader gadgets can slide accompanying cards to acquire special power-ups and prizes, too.
YU-GI-OH: THE SACRED CARDS (Konami; GBA; ; rated E) -- Baffling to grownups but irresistible to kids, the "Yu-Gi-Oh" card-battling franchise tweaks its formula to add RPG elements. Perfect stocking-stuffer for anyone under 12.
| DRIVING/RACING |
KIRBY AIR RIDE (Nintendo; GC; ; rated E) -- What is it about this round pink little guy that makes you laugh on sight? Kirby is an old pal, but unfortunately he disappoints in this inoffensive but way-too-simple racer that will please only the youngest gamers -- and not for long. About all you do here is mash down the "A" button, and that gets old pretty quickly. Kids, hold out for "Mario Kart: Double Dash" instead.
MARIO KART: DOUBLE DASH (Nintendo, GC; ; rated E) -- Amusing kart racer allows dual riders to share driving duties in single- or multiplayer grand prix contests. Accommodates LAN and online play, but there's not much else here that tweaks the formula of previous "Mario Kart" titles.
NASCAR THUNDER ALLEY (EA Sports; PS2, Xbox, PC; , rated E) -- The best of the racing-car lot, this NASCAR game offers gadgets only a gearhead could love: arranging your own car setup, a new Grudge and Alliance racing feature and even a directory for your local MRN radio affiliate. Still, controls were problematic for more than one gamer in our household (yes, we even tried the dexterous elementary-schooler).
NEED FOR SPEED UNDERGROUND (Electronic Arts; GC; PS2; Xbox; PC; GBA; ; rated E) -- Real cars, real-looking streets and real hip-hop and rock singers on the pulsing soundtrack boost the octane in this street racer. More accessible and blessedly easier to play than last year's "Need for Speed Hot Pursuit 2," with its unbeatable cop adversaries. Lots of parts to unlock, stickers to win and souped-up cars to customize, and its fast and furious crashes will make you wince.
ROADKILL (Midway; PS2, Xbox; ; rated M) -- The name says it all. Low-rent car-combat game wants to be "Twisted Metal: Black" but is merely twisted. Set in a post-apocalyptic world populated by gangs with big guns and bigger cars, its characters and radio DJs curse and blather about sex. Dumb plot, blah graphics., Leave this one beside the road.
STARSKY & HUTCH (Gotham Games; PS2, Xbox, PC; ; rated T) -- For a budget title, this action racer with arcade overtones isn't half bad. Join '70s TV supercops Starsky and Hutch as they tool around a breakable Bay City chasing criminals, flying off rooftops and shooting out traffic signals while trying to keep viewer ratings up with outrageous stunts. Think Midtown Madness on steroids. Serious racing fans should stay away, but nostalgia buffs with 20 bucks to burn will get a laugh. Has anyone seen David Soul and Paul Michael Glaser?
TRUE CRIME: STREETS OF LA (Activision; GC, PS2; Xbox; ; rated M) -- A poor man's "Grand Theft Auto," (but not that poor) "True Crime" flips the coin and makes you a maverick cop a la Dirty Harry instead of a two-bit thug. Either way, the idea is the same as you carjack vehicles, engage in fisticuffs on city streets and drive, drive, drive through a huge and wonderfully rendered Los Angeles, all set to a hip soundtrack. The plot is cliched, but vocals by Christopher Walken, Gary Oldman and Michael Madsen spice things up. Loads of fun, though a bit aimless, it doesn't quite boast Grand Theft Auto's sense of identity.
| PLATFORMERS AND PUZZLES |
BILLY HATCHER AND THE GIANT EGG ( Sega; GC; ; rated E) -- More akin to a Pixar film than a video game, this beautifully animated offering from the creators of "Sonic the Hedgehog" creates an endearing hero and an offbeat world of Crayola-colored chickens. His goal: to recover a legendary chicken suit that will empower him to defeat the evil crows who've stolen the sun and left all of poultrydom in darkness. Bizarre? Very. But kids who revel in the antics of a blue spinning hedgehog won't have any problem buying into this eggs-traordinary tale.
BOMBASTIC (Capcom; PS2; ; rated E) -- Don't get blown to smithereens in this pastel-pretty, deceptively tough 3-D brain teaser that requires you to roll and match dynamite-laden dice before they explode. Sound simple enough? You'll see.
JAK II (Sony/Naughty Dog; PS2; ; rated T) -- Surprisingly dark sequel to 2001's popular "Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy" sends Jack and sidekick Daxter to investigate a mysterious energy portal that's erupted in the sky. What they find on the portal's other end isn't pretty, and Jak ends up on the receiving end of evil Baron Praxis' experiments. His resulting new powers propel the action after Daxter breaks him out of jail to explore dismal Haven City. Time-constrained missions can be confusing and frustrating. But graphics echo last year's fine effort, and Jak's thrilling hoverboard moves give Tony Hawk a run for his money.
LAW & ORDER II: DOUBLE OR NOTHING (Vivendi Universal; PC; ; rated T) -- Grab your badge and hook up with wise-cracking, world-weary Detective Lennie Briscoe to probe the murder of a world-famous scientist. Solve the case, then prosecute the killer as an assistant district attorney. Choose investigative or interview skills that will help you in each role, but be careful -- giving yourself certain strengths leaves you lacking in other areas. Celebrity voice acting and an emphasis on problem-solving should please both longtime fans and casual viewers of the hit TV series.
RATCHET & CLANK: GOING COMMANDO (Sony/Insomniac; PS2; ; rated T) -- No peace for our mechanical, wrench-wielding hero and his robot pal, Clank. Last year, they were resting on their laurels after saving the galaxy from Chairman Drek. Now they're back in action, retrieving an ominous experiment that's been stolen from a bumbling inventor's firm. Lots of humor, new weapons, larger environments and exploding sheep -- see for yourself -- make this sophomore outing as satisfying as the first.
TAK AND THE POWER OF JUJU (THQ; GC, PS2, GBA; ; rated E) -- Our sleeper favorite of the season, even if it does bog down in the middle. We can't tell you when a game made us laugh so often, mostly at sarcastic dialogue while the acerbic Shaman instructs apprentice Tak in magic that will undo the evil spell that turned their tribesmen into sheep. (More sheep! A chicken suit figures into this plot as well.) Expressive faces, lush settings and a stirring world-music soundtrack are dandy. Too bad "Tak" loses steam in levels that don't offer enough signals about his next moves.
VOODOO VINCE (Microsoft; Xbox; ; rated T) -- Quirky and clever tale about a voodoo doll named Vince who solves puzzles, bounces and floats through weird environments, and hurts himself to defeat enemies in a quest for his kidnapped master. Not as complex as, say, Blinx the Time Sweeper, but plenty challenging and fun, and set to a wonderful jazzy soundtrack.
| SPORTS |
BACKYARD BASKETBALL (Atari, PS2, PC; , rated E) -- The most recent offering from the Backyard Boys and Girls (following Hockey and Football) just might be the most fun of the season's sports titles. It's Practice Play had better depth than almost all of the NBA and NCAA games, and none of them allow you to play Houston's Yao Ming against Achmed in Hot Shot, Around the World and HORSE. Watch Boston's Paul Pierce get stripped -- of the ball, that is -- by a girl. Watch the Portland Jail Blazers? Oooh, that might be too graphic for the kiddies.
FIFA SOCCER 2004 (EA Sports; GC, PS2, Xbox, PC; ; rated E) -- Although soccer is hardly the best-known game in the U.S., it's heartening that a big company like EA endeavors to make such a fine product. One of the few sports games in which the computer doesn't automatically smear the pitch with you. Lack of practice drills and special moves hurt, but easy gameplay and spot-on announcing evened the score.
MADDEN NFL 2004 (EA Sports; PS2, GC, X, PC, GMA; , rated E) -- Still the gold standard, although not without flaws. Controls can be difficult (for us). Nostalgia lovers will enjoy using the 1972 Steelers, but won't recognize the numbers and name-less lot. Longtime Madden users will adore the new Playmaker option allowing for audibles and pre-snap alterations. And it's interesting to note the Madden cover jinx continues: Atlanta's Michael Vick hasn't played yet this season due to injury.
NBA JAM (Acclaim, GC, PS2, Xbox; , rated E) -- A blast to play, "Jam" is for old-school and new-school players. You can have Sacramento's Chris Webber face such a Bay Area Legend as Nate Thurmond -- in black and white. The old high tops are so groovy, too. There are fireworks, air-whooshing sounds, music from the '70s and dunkers literally "on fire." You get style points, although the game doesn't. The crowd looks like it's doing the Chicken Dance. It's a shade slow to load, too.
NBA LIVE 2004 (EA Sports, GC, PS2, Xbox, PC; , rated E) -- So hip, you can even buy high tops for your players (of course, Air Jordans are available). The game offers tips from Marv Albert -- YES! -- and TV partner Mike Fratello. Looks good, sounds good, provides awards and retired jerseys and awesome replays. Trash talk in one-on-one mode is rad. But the "All New Controls" were still a tad difficult for us.
NBA SHOOTOUT 2004 (989 Sports, PS2, PSX; , rated E) -- If you cannot stand the voice of Bill Walton, you might want to play this while muted. The players can be a little stiff sometimes, but it just might be the most realistic look of the basketball bunch. You can play the National Basketball Developmental League or even Team USA, which allowed us to have USA's Tim Duncan battle San Antonio's Tim Duncan. Neat to see the same star miss a bunny lay-up on one end, then slam at the other.
NHL 2004 (EA Sports, PS2, GC, X, PC, , rated E) -- Once you get past the unfortunate circumstance of the cover, with Atlanta's Dany Heatley -- he of the fatal car crash that killed teammate Dan Snyder -- you find a superior product. There's the addition of three European Leagues, Training Camp tips from Vancouver coach Marc Crawford and a Dynasty mode. It looks as real as watching a game on television, and you get to drop your gloves and fight just like those goons on the tube.
NCAA FINAL FOUR 2004 (989 Sports, PS2; ; rated E) -- You'll find such oddities as Pitt's Carl Krauser character -- due to NCAA rules, no names or faces can be used -- has a higher game rating (94) than star teammate Julius Page (91). The floors, cheerleaders and mascots are good, and many school fight songs, such as Pitt's, are included. Just too many jams, too many headbands, too little reality for our tastes.
NFL BLITZ PRO (Midway, GC, PS2, Xbox; , rated E) -- This is the cartoonish-hitting, brutish brand of game that is the Rock 'Em, Sock 'Em robots of virtual football. Players get hit hard after plays. Folding chairs sit at the end of the teams' benches (for clanging over heads, pro-wrestling style, perhaps). Cheerleaders bounce along the Steelers' Heinz Field sidelines, as if that would ever happen. Some of the faces are accurate, but most of the players are more fat than phat.
TIGER WOODS PGA TOUR 2004 (EA Sports, GC, PS2, Xbox, PC; , rated E) -- More fun that actual golfing. Announcer David Feherty and his Irish accent follow you around the virtual course, and he's a hoot. The practice round is a neat start-up, especially with my new-fangled Real-Time Analog Swing, which looks muuuch better in this game than in person. Scenery from holes around the world provides a cool backdrop that will further keep you off the course and on this game.
| EXTREME SPORTS |
DISNEY'S EXTREME SKATE ADVENTURE (Activision; GC, PS2; Xbox; ; rated T) -- Tarzan and Buzz Lightyear meet Tony Hawk in this skateboard adventure for little gamers. Familiar Disney characters scoot around on real boards and other crazy stuff in settings from "The Lion King," "Toy Story" and other animated films. Game engine is borrowed from last year's "Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 4," though, so it gives players a ride for their money.
SSX3 (Electronic Arts; GC, PS2; Xbox, GBA; ; rated E) -- Slick tracks, tons of snow and ice and speedy tricks on snowboards can't eliminate the repetitive nature of this game. Unless you're an extreme sports enthusiast, you'll likely end up bored by doing little more than zooming down tons of pretty mountains as the usual assortment of cookie-cutter teen-age characters who crop up in anything to do with snowboards, skateboard and surfboards.
TONY HAWK'S UNDERGROUND (Activision; GC, PS2, Xbox, GBA; ; rated T) -- Every year, we ask: How does he do this stuff? This year, you get to do it, too, in this customizable tale that features an fictional unknown rather than the pixilated versions of real professionals that populated Tony's previous titles. Design your own skater, tracks and courses, explore environments and drive cars in this free-form outing. If you've got PS2 Online, you can even put your face on your character by downloading your photograph. Stunts, as usual, are breathtaking. What will he try next?
WWE RAW 2 (THQ; Xbox; ; rated T) -- Plenty of beefcake, but where's the beef? This is a pathetic excuse for a wrestling game. Horrible graphics, wrestlers who move as if in slow motion and lack of a list of combo moves pins Raw 2 before it even enters the ring.
WWE SMACKDOWN! HERE COMES THE PAIN (THQ; PS2; ; rated T) -- Our top contender for game with the worst name of the year. But to be fair, "Here Comes The Pain" features 65 WWE stars, all sorts of crazy matches and the same kind of easy-to-master gameplay found in earlier "Smackdown" titles. And we'll concede that the color-coded meter that lights up injured parts of the body is pretty sharp.
| FLYING |
CRIMSON SKIES: HIGH ROAD TO REVENGE (Microsoft; Xbox; ; rated T) -- Step into an alternate reality where the 1930s U.S. is split into nation states, zeppelins are the main source of transportation and swashbuckling air pirate Nathan Zachary takes to the skies in a series of planes that enable fantastic aerial maneuvers. Jaunty and fun, Crimson Skies is a new incarnation of the PC game by the same name from a few years back. It looks swell and handles like a dream as Zachary and his ragtag band make like skyborne Robin Hoods.
HARRY POTTER: QUIDDITCH WORLD CUP (Electronic Arts; GC, PS2, Xbox, PC, GBA; ; rated E) -- J.R. Rowling's imaginary sport comes to life but misses the mark as Harry and his friends (and enemies) compete on the Quidditch pitch. Compete in the intrascholastic Hogwarts championship and then in the international World Cup. Too chaotic to be much fun, the game is ultimately frustrating, made more so by the inability to precisely control altitude or switch players with ease.
LETHAL SKIES II (Sammy Studios; PS2; ; rated T) -- Intriguing wartime plot and a slew of current-day or experimental fighters may tempt you to suit up and climb into the cockpit. But clunky targeting and bland ground graphics and explosions may tempt you to bail out of this sequel to last year's air combat title. In-air graphics are realistic and planes are nicely detailed. But once you're in the air, some of them handle more like minivans than supersonic jets.
SECRET WEAPONS OVER NORMANDY (LucasArts; PS2, Xbox, PC; ; rated T) -- Strap on your parachute and hop into the cockpit of World War II-vintage aircrafts as you fly for an Allied elite unit in this combat flight game. Utterly unrealistic airborne dynamics might put off serious flight sim enthusiasts, but the rest of us will have a good time climbing, swooping and dive-bombing in dogfights with the Nazis.
| WAR GAMES |
ADVANCE WARS 2: BLACK HOLE RISING (Nintendo; GBA; ; rated E) -- Turn-based handheld gem puts you at the head of a miniature army and fear-inducing Neo tanks, then sends you forth to forge alliances with other nations and eviscerate your shared enemy, the Black Hole Army. Despite the combat theme, tactics and strategy matter most. Shoulder the burden of command as you assess terrain and consider how best to deploy troops and equipment.
CONFLICT: DESERT STORM II: BACK TO BAGHDAD (Gotham Games; PS2, Xbox, PC; ; rated T) -- One year after releasing the first "Conflict: Desert Storm," Gotham Games has returned with this second installment. Graphics are still subpar, controls can be clunky, and the lack of a pause function can be maddening, but this remains one fun game. Frankly, we think it's more of a hoot than the vaunted "Operation Flashpoint" series, so if you're into guiding a group of Delta Force or British commandos into the hostile desert, you could do worse.
COUNTER-STRIKE (Microsoft; Xbox; ; rated M) -- Ugh. Cutting edge when released for the PC long ago, this first-person shooter really shows its age on Xbox. The single-player action is abysmal, and combat junkies who are into multiplayer fighting can do better elsewhere. Don't say we didn't warn you.
MEDAL OF HONOR: RISING SUN (Electronic Arts; GC, PS2, Xbox; ; rated T) -- World War II action shifts to the Pacific in this historically accurate first-person shooter with graphics, sound and artificial intelligence that surpass last year's terrific "Medal of Honor: Frontline." Shudder as U.S. Marine Cpl. Joseph Griffin survives the heartbreaking Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, then storms Guadalcanal and blows up the Bridge over the River Kwai with his men. New two-player mode brings in more troops, and PS2 version offers online play for SOCOM veterans who'd like to step back in time.
SOCOM II: U.S. NAVY SEALS (Sony; PS2; ; rated M) -- A year has passed since the commandos made their debut. But 2 million folks like us still can't get enough of the best online play out there. Quell arms trafficking in Albania, then team up for covert missions with Russian or British units. Snap out or respond to commands from up to 15 others who've signed on for your special ops mission. Tired of all that chatter? Slip off the headset and switch to the very cool single-player mode instead.
TOM CLANCY'S RAINBOW SIX 3 (Ubi Soft; Xbox; ; rated M) -- Even Tom Clancy must be getting tired of this series. A known quantity through and through, these counter-terrorism operatives have neither the visual chops, plot or finesse of "Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell." The game amounts to little more than tossing flash-bang grenades and clearing rooms with your squadron. Its claim to fame is the multiplayer mode.
| SIMULATION |
THE SIMS (Electronic Arts; GC, PS2, Xbox; ; rated T) -- An early console release this year that finally dug into PC territory, it's still the best and most addictive simulation game to grace the market. By controlling the daily routines of miniature imaginary people -- you tell them to go to the bathroom, dress, bathe, eat, clean, socialize and spend, spend, spend on decorating their houses -- The Sims injects hours of fun into the mundane. Perfect for micromanagers, detail freaks and interior designers.
THE SIMS: MAKIN' MAGIC (Electronic Arts; PC; ; rated T) -- Yet another expansion pack for "The Sims" on PC, but this one is a goodie for those who have a flair for fantasy. Cast spells, create charms and give your Sims a supernatural bent with magic items. With these newfound powers, your Sims can play mischievous tricks on others. You need a sense of humor to enjoy this expansion, which we recommend only to diehard Simaniacs.
| FIGHTING |
BLOODY ROAR 4 (Hudson; PS2; ; rated M) -- Here we have "Mortal Kombat" with women, and it's not an effective translation. Animation isn't bad, but graphics and lurid color schemes are cheesy. And what's with the female opponent who kept abruptly morphing into a killer bunny? Too weird for us.
CROUCHING TIGER, HIDDEN DRAGON (Ubi Soft; PS 2, Xbox, ; rated T) -- Pedestrian fight-fest has little in common with the lovely, innovative film of 2001 that shares its name and supposedly provides its inspiration. Hardly anything here stands out from other martial-arts titles, and it's a year late to boot.
MTV'S CELEBRITY DEATH MATCH (Gotham Games; GC, PS2, Xbox, PC; , rated M) -- Busty (Anna Nicole Smith) battles Buster (Rhymes), Carrot Top crunches Cindy Margolis and other so-called celebrities spout more bad puns than anyone should have to bear to bear in a lifetime. Admittedly, the astoundingly pneumatic rendering of Miss Anna Nicole isn't easily forgotten, and the create-a-celeb feature allows you to add fresh characters to the pugilistic mix. Some gimmicks are funny in a groan-inducing sort of way, but they wear thin quickly.
ONIMUSHA: TACTICS (Capcom; GBA; ; rated T) -- Polish your sword-fighting skills by fighting off the Genma demon invaders. Vivid, nuanced settings, deeper-than-usual storyline and an emphasis on strategy prove that handheld games don't have to be weak imitators of their console brethren.
TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES (Konami; GC, PS2, Xbox, GBA; ; rated E) -- The pizza-chomping, hard-shelled crime fighters with the Renaissance names are back to entertain a new generation. Repetitive dialogue and ordinary graphics drag down one- and two-player modes. Still, there's something oddly fulfilling about mindlessly dispatching wave after wave of bad guys and robotic dogs in bloodless, cartoony clashes.
| MUSIC/GADGETS |
AMERICAN IDOL (Codemasters; PS2, PC, GBA; ; rated E) -- Shamed as we are to admit it, we couldn't put this one away once we got the hang of it. Design your character, choose your singing voice and select songs for your audition. Once you take the stage, stay on key and in step by pushing controller buttons to "shoot" corresponding targets that pass over the screen. (Helpful hint: watch the tutorial.) The worse your aim, the more you'll screech. Of course, that may be the effect you go for, if only to hear how cutting Simon's barbs can be.
DDRMAX 2 DANCE DANCE REVOLUTION (Konami; PS2; ; rated E) -- If K.C. and the Sunshine Band's "Get Down Tonight" doesn't get you moving, nothing will. Konami's latest home version of its arcade hit features Kylie Minogue and other pop artists singing dance-club hits while soothing psychedelic swirls and kaleidoscopic patterns take over your TV screen. Sure to be a smash with the tween sleepover set, but grownups can groove and count calories, too, in workout mode. Don't forget the separate-purchase plug-in dance pad.
GAME BOY PLAYER (Nintendo; GBA; ; rated E) -- So much for squinting at tiny portable game screens. Plug-in device allows the near-sighted among us to play GBA titles on our GameCube instead. So that's what those all those itty-bitty Pokemon look like!
KARAOKE REVOLUTION (Konami; PS2; ; rated E) -- Yet another party-pleaser that turns your home into a karaoke stage. Pop in the music disk, slip on the required headset mike and warble away to more then 35 recent pop songs. Can't figure out the words? Try the cheat book, and try not to wake the neighbors.
