WWE SmackDown! Shut Your Mouth (THQ) (PlayStation 2 (US Version))

The SmackDown! series moves to a new level. Aspects of play still need perfecting, but this is still a great value package.

Ratchet And Clank (Insomniac Games) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Brilliant. A gripping comic space opera that's outstanding in every way. Gaming really doesn't come much better.

Hitman 2: Silent Assassin (Eidos) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Ethically, it's on shaky ground, but if you're the kind of steely soul untroubled by sentiment, Hitman 2 is a stone-cold killer.

Burnout 2: Point Of Impact (Acclaim) (PlayStation 2 (US Version))

A massively enjoyable collection of four-wheeled thrills that leave you itching for just one more go...

Ferrari F355 Challenge (Sega) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Competent, challenging and realistic, but probably a biit too fiddly and specialist for anyone weaned on Gran Turismo.

This Is Football 2003 (Sony) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Noticeable improvements make a good game better, but it's still scrapping with FIFA for second place in the footy war.

Need For Speed: Hot Pursuit 2 (Electronic Arts) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Breathless driving, police interference, cool short-cuts and superb 3D. This is an enjoyable and hugely satisfying racer.

Madden NFL 2003 (Electronic Arts) (PlayStation 2 (US Version))

A polished, tweaked and greatly enhanced revision of the most authentic gridiron series around.

Riding Spirits (Bam Entertainment) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

A good attempt at offering a two-wheeled Gran Turismo 3 but may be too intimidating for some.

The Terminator: Dawn Of Fate (Atarisoft) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

We were looking forward to this, so it's a real wasted opportunity. Another potentially decent film licence trashed.

Twin Caliber (Rage) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

A semi-interesting idea for a shooter, utterly cocked-up in execution.

Way Of The Samurai (Eidos) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

To be blunt, this below-par slash-'em-up will only appeal to swordaholics.

Kelly Slater's Pro Surfer (Activision) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Looks great and initially entertains, but ultimately proves to be a shallow thrill.

Taz Wanted (Infogrames) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Beyond the vibrant look is a game that tries every trick in the book to appeal. It fails.

Crashed (Xplosiv) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Initially enjoyable, but there's nothing to keep you coming back. A missed opportunity.

NHL 2003 (Electronic Arts) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Keeps the excellent core of NHL 2002, and improves it with some well-placed tweaks and new features.

R/C Sports Copter Challenge (THQ) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Fed up with death and destruction? This provides a few hours of chilled out chopper action.

UFC: Throwdown (Crave Entertainment) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Bold, brutal, blood-spattered, UFC: Throwdown is not pretty, but then neither is the sport it simulates.

NHL Hitz 2003 (Midway) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Fast, furious, all-out arcade fun.

WTA Tour Tennis (Konami) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

In-depth game modes are betrayed by an engine that fails to excite.

Sub Rebellion (Metro 3D) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Ace Combat beneath the waves? No, just that familiar sinking feeling.

Street Hoops (Activision) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

A fair basketball game, but its blinging good looks aren't matched by its predictable moves.