Tekken Tag Tournament (namco) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Fantastically playable despite the bare-faced cheek of pretending to be something it isn't.

TimeSplitters (Eidos) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

TimeSplitters is a fun, frantic and inventive first-person shooter that every PlayStation 2 gamer should buy. Yesterday.

Ridge Racer V (namco) (PlayStation 2 (US Version))

Ridge Racer V will please as a launch game, but it's just not as good as you thought it was going to be.

SSX (Electronic Arts) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Slick, speedy and extremely addictive.

Smuggler's Run (Rockstar Games) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

A launch game that looks how you expect a PS2 game to look. Impressive both graphically, and, most importantly, extremely good fun to play.

Ready 2 Rumble: Round 2 (Midway) (PlayStation 2 (US Version))

A great 'pick up and play' title, but it can't compete for long-term thrills.

International Superstar Soccer (Konami) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

What appears to be a simple title reveals itself to be a brilliant kickaround.

Silent Scope (Konami) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

The gameplay may be of the 'lite' variety, but Silent Scope walks the thin line between frustration and progress with grace.

ESPN Winter X-Games Snowboarding (Sega) (PlayStation 2 (US Version))

Realistic snowboarding and novel touches. Won't melt the digital winter sports community, but rewards those prepared to look beyond the initially bland demeanour.

Orphen: Scion Of Sorcery (Activision) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

A disappointing action RPG that doesn't have enough to satisfy adventure fans, and is short of the depth that hardcore role-playing gamers demand.

Gradius III & IV (Konami) (PlayStation 2 (US Version))

Fans of the series will probably enjoy this, but its numerous failings will ensure Gradius III & IV is of minority interest only. A waste of time, really.

Madden NFL 2001 (Electronic Arts) (PlayStation 2 (US Version))

Easily the best sports sim so far on PlayStation 2. Packed with options, pumped-up with addictive gameplay and draped in outstanding visuals. This game demands respect.

Fantavision (Sony) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Thanks to its modest size, Fantavision isn't quite a must-own game. Even so, you really should consider it - just for its original concept and playability.

ESPN International Track & Field (Konami) (PlayStation 2 (US Version))

A disappointment. The capabilities of the PS2 called for something bigger and more original, but what we get is a polished package devoid of any meaty substance.

Wild Wild Racing (Rage) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Wild Wild Racing is a fine, if not immediately accessible off-roader.

Aqua Aqua: Wetrix 2.0 (SCI) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

A great first puzzle game for the PS2, and at a tempting price. A vast improvement on previous incarnations, but the concept could be taken a little further yet.

Midnight Club (Rockstar Games) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Although it's tempting to be blown away by slick graphics and speed, Midnight Club feels dated. Not awful, but the PS2 can do much better.

Tomb Raider: Chronicles (Eidos) (PlayStation (EU Version))

It's tricky to keep ideas fresh after five outings, but new development blood has kept Tomb Raider at the top.

Medal Of Honor 2 (Electronic Arts) (PlayStation (US Version))

Deeply atmospheric, Underground could be described as merely a mission pack, but it's just as exciting and immersive to play as the first game and should be described as a grande victoire.

Incredible Crisis (Titus) (PlayStation (EU Version))

This kookie game is the sort you'll get out after a night on the pop to show your mates. After the initial novelty of the bizarre levels wears off, you probably won't be back very often.

Spyro 3: Year Of The Dragon (Insomniac Games) (PlayStation (US Version))

With new characters, moves and sub-games, it's plenty big enough to occupy you for days.