Hitman: Contracts (Eidos) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

More of the same but bigger. AI is still perplexing at times, but the game remains endearing, despite the odd frustration.

UEFA Euro 2004 (Electronic Arts) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Not essential, but Euro 2004 outplays its predecessor comfortably. And if we win you can stick two points on that score.

World War Zero: Ironstorm (Microids) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Highly atmospheric alternate-history shooter that hits some of the right spots beautifully, yet still manages to miss others.

The Suffering (Midway) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Despite being fairly conservative underneath, The Suffering impresses from the start and keeps you hooked throughout.

Fight Night (Electronic Arts) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Polished, professional and in possession of the perfect control system, this is the best boxing sim on PS2 by a considerable way.

SingStar (Sony) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

We've played this so much it's genuinely improved our singing. Buy it, and never risk pub-based humiliation again.

Project Zero 2: Crimson Butterfly (Ubisoft) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Survival horror games live or die on plot and atmospherics, and this delivers some of the best you'll see. Not that challenging, but still...

Transformers (Activision) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Beautifully made, deep and very satisfying, the only factor denying this a 9/10 is a difficulty level that borders on sadistic.

Pool Paradise (Ignition Entertainment) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

A bit too 'zany' for its own good, perhaps, but a great - if initially tricky - analogue stick control system. The best pool on PS2.

World Championship Pool 2004 (Jaleco) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

A lot like the competent Codies snooker sim, but it's as pleasant to look at as chopped liver. That's been left outside. For ages.

Scooby Doo: Mystery Mayhem (THQ) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

A lack of any challenge and no alone time with Daphne won't interest experienced gamers. But the absence of Scrappy is welcome.

Glass Rose (Capcom) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

It does have the odd spot of charm, but Glass Rose is still an unappealing product from an outdated and uninteresting genre.

MTX Mototrax (Activision) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

If you've never 'done' two-wheeled racers MTX Mototrax makes a convincing argument for change. Fast, fun and challenging.

Outlaw Volleyball (TDK) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

This is a fairly enjoyable gaming experience while it lasts, but like so many of our British summers, it's over before it really gets started.

Star Trek: Shattered Universe (TDK) (PlayStation 2 (US Version))

Not an utterly repellent Trek experience, but the repetitive and run-of-the-mill gameplay will tire all but the most infatuated Trekkies.