Dead Or Alive 2 (Tecmo) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Over-exuberant and alienating to the novice but it looks good and, more importantly, plays well once you learn how to tame it.

FIFA 2001 (Electronic Arts) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

FIFA 2001 talks a good game, but its dependence on fancy tricks and glossy presentation leaves the all-important football basics sadly lacking.

Rayman Revolution (Ubisoft) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

An engrossing experience, although not exactly original. New elements to the gameplay add longevity and make it well worth a look.

TG Dare Devil (Kemco) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

A decent driving sim offering a welcome change from racing around tracks but its repetitive gameplay means the enjoyment is short-lived.

Dynasty Warriors 2 (Koei) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Gorgeous swordplay on a truly epic scale.

NHL 2001 (Electronic Arts) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Certainly the most important ice hockey game for at least five years. So damn hot, you half-expect the ice to steam.

Swing Away Golf (Electronic Arts) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

A potentially decent blend or realism and fun turns sour in the face of poisonous presentation and horrendous loading. Fore! No, three.

Poolmaster (Take 2 Interactive) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

A potentially decent pool sim which consistently fouls on the 8-ball shot. Head down the pub instead, wethinks.

H30 Surfing (Rockstar Games) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

A great concept is bogged down under horrendous controls, and a syrupt pace. Definitely not radical. A shame.

X-Squad (Electronic Arts) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

The lack of attention to detail makes X-Squad seem thrown together. It's enjoyable enough, but never inspiring.

RC Revenge (Acclaim) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

A missed opportunity to further improve a franchise that could've used it.

Super Bust-A-Move (Taito) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Dated and not very fitting as an exercise of the PlayStation 2 capabilities. Puzzle addicts should look to Bust-A-Move 3 for Psone and buy that instead.

The World Is Not Enough (Electronic Arts) (PlayStation (EU Version))

The opening and closing levels are enjoyable, but the whole thing falls apart in the middle.

Knockout Kings 2001 (Electronic Arts) (PlayStation (US Version))

A realistic and rewarding antidote to the arcade insanity of Ready 2 Rumble. It's always going to appeal far more to fight fans.

WWF Smackdown 2 (THQ) (PlayStation (EU Version))

Any sports game where you can give the commentators and managers a thorough lashing has got to be good.

Dancing Stage Euro Mix (Konami) (PlayStation (EU Version))

Sadly lacking in mass appeal. The theory is sound, but are our wallets big enough? Probably not.