James Bond 007: Everything Or Nothing (Electronic Arts) (PlayStation 2 (US Version))

It won't redefine the gaming landscape but Everything Or Nothing's one of the most unapologetic thrillrides on PS2. Popcorn gaming at its best.

SOCOM 2: US Navy SEALs (Sony) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

A big improvement on the original, offering the best argument yet for taking your PS2 Online. SOCOM 2 is an utterly gripping stealth shooter.

Max Payne 2 (Rockstar Games) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

For the most part a satisfying blast through film noir New York, but there are too many flaws to give it more than a reserved recommendation.

Downhill Domination (Codemasters) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Better than you might think, but still doesn't transcend its subject matter. For MTB-ers only at full whack, but a winner when cheap.

Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance 2 (Interplay) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Improvements across the board with genuinely accessible console RPGing and Rings-a-like hacking.

Dynasty Warriors 4 Xtreme Legends (Koei) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Gaming MSG. You'll feel full after a couple of courses, but will soon be tucking in again. How long can Dynasty Warriors keep pulling off this trick, though?

Maximo VS Army Of Zin (Capcom) (PlayStation 2 (US Version))

A combat-heavy platformer with a top tale, Maximo never fails to entertain, while not quite reaching the heady heights of Jak 2.

Carmen Sandiego: The Secret Of The Stolen Drums (Bam Entertainment) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

The lack of graphical spit and polish is more than compensated for with slick gameplay and original features. But only just.

NFL Street (Electronic Arts) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Even those with no interest in American football will find the sport entertaining in this stripped down, action-packed depiction.

Arc: Twilight Of The Spirits (Sony) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Okay, look, we'll just come right out and say it, shall we? It's something to play while you wait for the arrival of Final Fantasy X-2...

I-Ninja (namco) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

It might look childish, but I-Ninja deserves to be played by all. It's fast, varied, smoothly good-looking and, above all, fun.

Robocop (Titus) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

This is laughably bad fare. But you won't be laughing if you've shelled out 40 quid for this rabid idiocy.

Flipnic (Capcom) (PlayStation 2 (US Version))

Pinball as you've never seen it before. Bags of originality but the game somehow remains incredibly dull to play.

Kill.Switch (namco) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Brutal, brainless but brilliant shooter with some tidy innovations. This certainly flicks our switch and will yours.

Final Fantasy X 2 (Square Enix) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Some intelligent innovation, but familiarity breeds a little discontent, even with something of this scope and magnitude.

Castlevania: Lament Of Innocence (Konami) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

The first successful 3D Castlevania is a great, action-packed adventure. Veterans and newcomers alike should check this out.

Midway Arcade Treasures (Midway) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Despite containing some solid-gold retro classics and great background info, this won't hold any current gamer's interest for long.

Looney Tunes: Back In Action (Warner Bros.) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Gets the Looney Tunes look and feel spot on but the dull platforming fails to capture the charm, humour or mindless violence of the 'toons.