After a while these entries will find their way across to the gaming micro-site where
you can also find more videogame info.
The ratings are simple, the more stars the better the game. Note that one or two stars does not mean the game is bad (those titles are symbolised by a black star)
but rather you should be cautious. A platinum star is awarded to the very best titles.
Wii
Resident Evil - Umbrella Chronicles - If you like light gun games you'll enjoy RE:UC very much. There are many missions
set across the various RE games, and each one has a collection of files hidden in destructible objects (tables, chairs etc.)
along with weapons you can keep and upgrade. A blast!
DS
Custom Robo Arena - A cut down version of pokemon, but with robots. Defeat opponents, get weapons, mix and match to build
the ultimate destructive machine. The RPG element goes on a bit - quite often you want to get on and battle bt have to wade
through a lot of (boring) text. Two player single cart play gives you a selection of weapons etc. which is good for a while,
but you'll need two games to make the most of the two-player option.
Guitar Hero III - Not sure what to say about it really. It's like Dance Dance Revolution, but instead of a mat you use a guitar. A lot of fun but definitely a party game. An interesting selection of songs - not enough well-known older tracks for my liking, but you'll find at least two tracks for everyone I believe. An an extra star if you have friends around often.
Wii
Wing Island - Critics point out the shortness of the game and the floaty feel of the planes, and they're correct in doing so. However what I will
say in the game's defence is that I found it to be enjoyable if occasionally frustrating. It's a cutesy, shallow plane game with a variety of missions
and will entertain for a few days. What the critics missed was that Wing Island is not trying to be the next Pilotwings.
Worth it for the right price.
UPDATE - See my FAQ at Gamefaqs.com
Wii
Eledees - Use the wiimote to levitate everything from pizza boxes to wardrobes to entire houses in your search for tiny electric creatures, whose
energy is used to power on TVs etc. Being able to completely trash rooms, throw hedgerows around, put toast in the toaster is amazing fun and again is one that
is accessible to all (girlfriends and overbearing house-proud wives love this game).
Trashing rooms is always good, and the level editor is a bonus. If you're unsure then rent first.
Wii
Mario Strikers CHARGED - Not one for the die-hard FIFA / ISS crowd, this is an arcade-style 5-a-side football (soccer) game which is very easy to get in to thanks
to its simple interface. You've got a choice of characters with their own unique dribbles and shots, as well as classic Mario items. It also boasts online play.
A great multiplayer game that everyone should enjoy (if you turn off the special moves). The combination of a cheating (yes!) CPU and no continues in tournament mode
(back to the start if you lose late on) means it just misses out on four stars.
Nintendo DS
Puzzle Quest - A highly addictive puzzle game that incorporates RPG elements and magical spells as you battle opponents by matching three or more same coloured icons.
The game requires you to think a move or two ahead and plan your various spells carefully (effects vary from grid changing to direct health/mana damage).
I would say every DS owner needs this game, plus it's available at a good price!
Wii
Sonic & The Secret Rings - Very enjoyable though it takes a while to get used to having less control of Sonic than you might be useful. Complete various missions throughout each of the themed worlds
(collect rings, don't get hit, beat a certain time) and progress the story, unlocking new abilities along the way.
A fun (if linear) race through pretty levels. The Mario-Party game is a bonus.
