Destructoid

The game is surprisingly deep, accommodates a wide number of playstyles, and requires quick thinking, solid planning, and an ability to adapt on the fly to whatever your opponents are doing. Strategy fans will have a field day, and action fans will be happy with the lack of micromanaging and the fast pace of the game.

Assault on Dark Athena is no more than a competent shooter -- it’s the mix of stealth and out-and-out confrontation that gives the title its edge. In multiplayer, it all breaks down. Headshots are common, respawn times are jokingly short, and level design is bad. The matches have an up-tempo, almost CounterStrike feel -- there’s even a mode that uses a weapon system like CS -- yet they lack that title’s refinement.

Fans of the first Godfather game will definitely want to take a look at the sequel, with the caveat that the extra layer of Don’s View depth and the strategic learning curve may turn some people off. It’s also not the best looking game, and it’s certainly not the most engaging. But it’s a fair bit of fun if the idea of shooting fools in the face -- when choking them just doesn’t work -- appeals to you.

Wheelman is a blast when the tempo is fast, the violence is at a low, and you’re nailing all the corners while pursuing an objective. The cinematic flair adds to these charming traits. However, Wheelman feels like a dud much too often when you’re crowded by a bunch of cheap enemy vehicles, are forced to get out of the car, or have to stumble through a variety of poorly designed missions.

MLB 09 The Show adheres to the age-old adage, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” and that is its greatest strength. Rather than implementing changes in the name of innovation or back-of-the-box bullet points, Sony San Diego has refined the winning formula of MLB 08 in nearly every imaginable way, and they’ve delivered the best version of The Show yet. But for those who shudder at the thought of plunking down $60 for a mere “update,” the game certainly brings enough significant improvements and additions -- especially for the hardcore fan base -- to justify a purchase even for owners of MLB 08.

Speaking strictly in terms of mechanics, calling Eat Lead mediocre would be excessive praise. But its charm, savvy writing and excellent humor shines in the face of all of its shortcomings and elevates it to a being a game that may not be worth owning but should certainly be played by anyone who can manage to plant their tongue firmly in cheek.

The promise of downloadable content is present, ensuring that the single-player person will have plenty to do after galloping through the game’s content. The multiplayer really shines. Peg Party is an impressive mode, sure to keep you interested in the title. If you’re a fan of Peggle, or even new to the series, give this a download. It’s worth every penny.

As a whole, The Last Hope is well crafted and presents a huge adventure for you to lose yourself in. With everything from solid dungeons to exciting battles and sidequests, the game has a ton to offer for your buck and stands as a worthwhile entry in the genre. If you're looking to have a groundbreaking new RPG experience it probably isn't the game for you, but otherwise I think it'd be a great addition to any collection.

X-Blades is a game that most people will be right to ignore. It offers nothing of substance, and the problems are so vast that a lot needs to be forgiven in order for any fun to be had. Hardcore action fans will definitely get a rental from what can be a decent experience, but those with short tempers, refined tastes or something important to do with their lives will want to steer clear.

While there’s somewhere about three hours of game to be played (maybe more if you choose to replay the game with both heroes), it basically boils down to the same 30 minutes repeated across six chapters. Still, if your tolerance for repetition is high, or you’re just looking for some mindless beat ‘em up action you can play with a buddy, The End is Nigh could be just what you’re looking for.