Tomb Raider: Legend (Eidos) (PlayStation 2 (US Version))

A largely tremendous update of the classic Raider template.

The Godfather (Electronic Arts) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

An extremely average crime sim bolted onto a much-loved licence, this just proves that you can't buy class. Not horrific, just freakin' dull.

Fight Night Round 3 (Electronic Arts) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

No massive innovations, but a neat fine-tuning job confirms Fight Night as the uncontested heavyweight champion of boxing games.

Pro Evolution Soccer Management (Konami) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

A reasonable management sim that's hindered by its parent game's success and a glaring lack of licences. Stick with the real thing.

Onimusha: Dawn Of Dreams (Capcom) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Will appeal to first timers, but the changes made will alienate many of Onimusha's staunchest fans. A grower, but vintage 'musha it ain't.

Armored Core: Nine Breaker (505 Game Street) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

As accessible as a David Lynch film dubbed into Russian and probably about half as much fun, Nine Breaker might keep mech lovers happy, but it'll leave everyone else cold.

The Sword Of Etheria (Konami) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

A playable hack-'em-up that delivers big on colourful enemy kills, but loses out because you're so reliant on dumbass AI teammates to aid you along the way.

G1 Jockey 4 (Koei) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

An unorthodox, immersive sports game that requires some hard graft, but will provide you with plenty of enjoyment in exchange.

Panzer Front AUSF.B (505 Game Street) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Substandard for a PSOne game - there's almost zero presentation, excitement, action, graphical flourish or indeed point. We could go on, but it's too depressing.

Dragon Quest VIII: Journey Of The Cursed King (Square Enix) (PlayStation 2 (US Version))

Dragon Quest looks sensational, plays tightly and lasts like a marathon-running robot. Not for casuals but a hardcore delight.

Sonic Riders (Sega) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

An undercooked cartoon racer that once again blemishes the once-great Sonic name. Only the sense of speed prevents total unplayability.

Knights Of The Temple II (Playlogic) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

With more loose ends than a fistful of hair, the missions could be tighter. But the action and exploration make this a quality budget title.

World Series Of Poker (Activision) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Another attempt to cash in on poker's current online renaissance. But with no cash and terrible graphics it's a bum-deal.

Shamu's Deep Sea Adventures (Activision) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

An enjoyable underwater escapade with plenty of nice touches. It's aimed at youngsters, but even the over-nines will get some enjoyment out of it.

Family Board Games (Liquid Games) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

They're called 'board games' for a reason - they should be played on a piece of wood, against real people - not solo on your PS2. End of.

World Racing 2 (Synetic) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

World Racing 2 offers loads of cars to try out, shortcuts to find, and career options to play, but you won't bother because the racing itself just isn't up to scratch.

Guitar Hero (Redoctane) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

An absolute classic. Simple to play but hugely rewarding, challenging and entertaining like nothing else on PS2. You need this game.

Buzz: The Big Quiz (Sony) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

The PS2's premier quiz show party game gets a decent new set of questions? That's the right answer!

Gene Troopers (Playlogic) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Rubbish. Oh, and you can't play at all without a memory card; when you die your options are 'reload' or 'return to death screen'. What? What?

Winx Club (Konami) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Impressively colourful and absolutely faithful to the TV show, there's nothing particularly wrong about this; but the spoon-fed levels lack any serious challenge.

Chicken Little (Buena Vista Games) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Fine, if slightly soulless. The corporate sheen makes us feel queasy, but there's no denying it's a playable, if simple, tie-in.

Rebel Raiders: Operation Nighthawk (Kando) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

Brilliantly average; surprisingly enjoyable flying, wrapped in a no-expense-at-all package.

Truck Racing 2 (Midas) (PlayStation 2 (EU Version))

A perfect recreation of the thrill-less experience that is road haulage: slow, cumbersome and ugly. Avoid this.

Football Manager Handheld (Sega) (PlayStation Portable)

Slick like Ronaldinho tip-toeing his way across Camp Nou's immaculate turf, this addictive sim gives its rivals an emphatic thrashing.

Splinter Cell Essentials (Ubisoft) (PlayStation Portable)

The classic series has been lovingly translated for PSP. It's a great stealth fix, although you do want to switch the lights on sometimes.

Ape Escape P (Sony) (PlayStation Portable)

Hideo Kojima might love it, but first-time monkey-wranglers will wonder what all the fuss is about. The original games are better.

Samurai Warriors: State Of War (Koei) (PlayStation Portable)

Tasty combat and a fresh strategy system make this a rare beast indeed: a Samurai Warriors game that surprises and excites.

Mega Man Powered Up (Capcom) (PlayStation Portable)

There's little skill, speed or urgency to any of the platforming/shooting action - making this another ignominious entry in Mega Man's CV.

From Russia With Love (Electronic Arts) (PlayStation Portable)

It looks good, it plays good, and it does handheld multiplayer as well as anything out there. Bond and PSP make perfect bedfellows.

Bust-A-Move Ghost (505 Game Street) (PlayStation Portable)

Behind the new name and smattering of fresh features rests a creaky old game that can't compete against its obviously-better-in-every-department rival.

Outrun 2006: Coast To Coast (Sega) (PlayStation Portable)

Bright, highly polished, massively desirable and built to impress. Outrun 2006 shows the same class as the Ferraris it lets you race.

Koloomn (505 Game Street) (PlayStation Portable)

The new rotation mechanic takes some getting used to, but Koloomn proves complex, satisfying and horribly addictive. Good stuff.