Colin McRae Rally 04 (Codemasters) (Xbox (EU Version))

Rallying at its grandest, prettiest and most absorbing. This is the greatest rally game that money can currently buy.

Madden NFL 2004 (Electronic Arts) (Xbox (EU Version))

The Madden series is as good as its gets. This is a simply stunning rendition of the sport no fan should underestimate.

NHL 2004 (Electronic Arts) (Xbox (EU Version))

A smart and frantic sports sim, but if you have NHL 2003 it's hard to recommend this - even with the impressive tinkering.

Conflict: Desert Storm II (Eidos) (Xbox (EU Version))

One of the best squad shooters just got better.

Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2004 (Electronic Arts) (Xbox (EU Version))

Not so much a sequel as a full-price update, if you own Tiger Woods 2003 think twice before you fork out.

Freestyle Metalx (Midway) (Xbox (EU Version))

Immersive, highly challenging and surprisingly varied. This is the best motocross game available on Xbox.

Pirates Of The Caribbean (Bethesda) (Xbox (EU Version))

A lush RPG adventure with a swashbuckling storyline that thrills and frustrates in almost equal measure.

Outlaw Volleyball (Hypnotix) (Xbox (EU Version))

Puts fun back into volleyball. A really enjoyable take on a potentially dull sport that just keeps on giving in multiplayer.

The Italian Job: L. A. Heist (Eidos) (Xbox (EU Version))

A missed opportunity to deliver a decent heist game. Stalls from the start and never really gets any better.

XGRA (Acclaim) (Xbox (EU Version))

Quantum Redshift is a better game, but there aren't many other future racers out, so this comes in second by default.

Ghost Recon: Island Thunder (Ubisoft) (Xbox (EU Version))

It's back, it's half price and it deserves to be played. Fans of the first title will love the new missions as will everyone else.

Aliens Vs. Predator Extinction (Electronic Arts) (Xbox (EU Version))

By no means a classic but by no means a turkey. A much-needed shot in the arm for those that like to think before they fight.

Lego Drome Racers (THQ) (Xbox (EU Version))

Works as a decent if slightly unsympathetic introduction to high-speed racing for the under-sevens.

Dredd Versus Death (Sierra) (Xbox (EU Version))

Looks far better than it plays, with obvious faults and boring level design stealing defeat from the jaws of victory.

Disney's Extreme Skate Adventure (Activision) (Xbox (EU Version))

The best kids' game on Xbox - and highly enjoyed by us adults too!

Finding Nemo (THQ) (Xbox (EU Version))

A conventional 3D platformer with the unique twist of being played underwater. If you love the film, you'll love this game.

Otogi: Myth Of Demons (Sega) (Xbox (EU Version))

A slick, good-looking oriental action title with a sprinkling of RPG elements to give it a unique twist.

Soul Calibur II (namco) (Xbox (EU Version))

This is as seminal for Xbox gamers as Street Fighter 2 was for followers of the SNES back in 1991. The future starts here.