The holiday season is well and truly here, as the weather gets colder, the nights elongated and TV programs get progressively worse. We've had a deluge of games recently, with many big hitters entering the centre stage. You might have exhausted the post apocalyptic wastes of Fallout 3, destroyed the Locusts in Gears of War 2, fought the Japanese tooth and nail in Call of Duty: World At War, survived the zombie hordes in Left 4 Dead, and conquered the world in Fable 2. Whilst many of you might still be gaining much enjoyment from these titles, let’s not forget that there are a number of key games that are well worth picking up and certainly worth playing.
We’ve compiled a list of games (in no particular order) which we think you should take a look at in between the killing bouts of the more popular experiences out at the moment. There’s a wide variety of play styles on offer, and although the Xbox 360 is renowned for its ‘shooter’ audience, you’ll find a bevy of excitement and entertainment in these other games if you’re prepared to put the guns down for a moment or two.
Tom Clancy’s: Endwar
You might not be keen on real time strategy games per se, but Endwar provides a tactical take on a tried and trusted formula. The real beauty with this game is the voice commands. It might appear to be somewhat of a gimmick, but once you don the headset and start barking orders (to the bemusement of anyone watching), you’ll discover that the game provides an excellent outlet for taking charge with a less hands-on approach. This is well worth playing for the experience of trying some new, yet familiar at the same time. It’s also far less cumbersome than its RTS brothers and sisters. There’s also some new downloadable content available which should provide much more for those of you who get into the game. We think this is a very accessible title and one you should consider or at least put on you list for Santa.
Mirror's Edge
EA’s Mirror’s Edge is a breath of fresh air against the onslaught of repetition in other games. Whilst the perspective and inclusion of familiar weapons might entice you, it’s the gameplay that really shines here. Parkour is proving to be rather vogue, perhaps it was the scene in the James Bond movie Casino Royale, that has sparked an interest. Mirror’s Edge does it right, and although you’re placed into the shoes of main protagonist ‘Faith’, you’ll feel at one with the environment as you attempt to clear your sister’s name, and uncover a dastardly plot which seems to revolve around big corporations controlling society. Being different isn’t always a good thing, but in the case of this title we think it works rather well. Don’t be put off by the game’s seeming brevity, as you’ll discover once drawn into its world, that there’s plenty on offer. With the prospect of downloadable content in the near future, this is well worth picking up.
Tomb Raider: Underworld
Lara Croft has cemented herself as ‘the’ gaming heroine of our generation, and although we’ve already seen two games on the system thus far; Tomb Raider: Underworld is a grand adventure well worth playing whether you’re a fan or not. It might contain some inconsistencies, but these do not prevent the game from being a title well worth the investment. Lara herself looks stunning, as do the environments, and if you like a more cerebral gaming experience then Underworld should cater to your needs. We think this is a game that should be played, especially if you have an audience to help out with some of the fiendish puzzles. Turn up the volume, dim the lights and get comfy with Lara and her world.
Quantum of Solace
Our opening might have suggested a break from first person shooters, but to be honest Quantum of Solace is a title that has to be played if your not only a fan of Daniel Craig’s James Bond character, but also if you like the genre and are looking for something different. The pacing is more methodical compared to your average shooter, and there’s enough action to satiate the most ardent of shooter fanatics. The game opts for a simpler gameplay perspective, but ultimately succeeds in providing sheer entertainment, with its high production values. If you’ve not seen the movies then you’ll still glean enough of the game’s plot to understand that Bond is at his best with a Walther PPK in his hand and Vodka Martini in the other. It’s a no-nonsense game and does exactly what it says on the tin.
Dead Space
Another EA title that does not involve any sports, and one that surprised a lot of people. Dead Space places you into the darkness of space aboard a mining vessel where unseen horrors unfold before you. In game, you take on the role of Clark who is sent to repair the craft, yet as you can expect things are not as they seem and events take a turn for the worse. If you like survival horror games with an action slant, then we think you’d do well to grab a copy of this game. There’s also a whole heap of extra downloadable content available, including an animated movie which provides more backstory to the events of the game.
Midnight Club LA
Rockstar made a huge impact earlier this year with its other franchise which we don’t need to mention here, however Xbox owners should have fond memories of the Midnight Club series. Well the franchise makes a welcome return on Xbox 360, and if you’ve ever felt the need to tear around Los Angeles unhindered, well now you can. If you like free-form driving/racing, then this is well worth picking up. The car interior view is especially worth the price of entry, although you’ll need to keep an eye on the LAPD who won’t take too kindly to your law breaking antics. With few new driving games available, this is one you should consider.
Too Human
Too Human is one of the older games which might have slipped under the radar, although that should be quite hard considering how much media attention it was given at the time of release. The reason why this is on the list is because not only will you find an engaging single player and co-op experience dipped in fantasy Norse mythology, but you might be able to find a good price deal during this holiday period. Too Human is perhaps like Marmite, which you’ll either love or loath, but you won’t know until you try the full game. We whole heartedly recommend you try this title.
Banjo Kazooie Nuts & Bolts
Whether you’re a fan of the Nintendo 64 classic or not, this game has its own charms that has to be experienced. Forget the rather cute looking demeanour, because underneath the surface you’ll find a game that offers plenty of depth and reward. It might not be your traditional platforming adventure game, but what it lacks in past glories for the series, it makes new headway in its finely tuned forward thinking approach. You might be surprised at how addictive the game is and yes, there’s no guns involved or cute piñatas. You’d do well to put this on your Santa’s list, for something entirely different from the norm.
Pure
Another older game, and one that is well worth picking up, especially if you can track down a good price deal. It’s dirty and extremely well polished, but most of all has an abundance of fun. If you like racing games where performing tricks is paramount to success, then Pure is well worth checking out. There’s also some rather cool graphics used to convey the madness of ATV racing.
Prince of Persia
Lastly and certainly not least, is Ubisofts recently released action adventure game. The series is well established, and by offering a slightly different direction, the game provides a sublime and encompassing gaming experience. Sure, you can’t die but this lends itself to a less frustrating gameplay element. The art direction is rather good, and you’ll find that the banter between the leading characters Elika and the Prince draws you in more than most games offer. It might be a little repetitive, but don’t let that put you off, because in reality what games aren’t. We feel that this is a game well worth playing whether you’re a fan of the series or just looking for something slightly different. Santa should be proud to place this title in your stocking or under your Xmas tree this year.
So there you have it. 10 games to think about which you might not have considered if you’re too busy with the more popular games out at the moment. There’s something for everyone in our list and remember that there’s life after you’ve exhausted those other moments. You’re also going to need something to spend the Xmas gift vouchers on that you’ll probably receive this year from an aunt or uncle.
Posted By: Robert Cram
Date: 2008-12-11
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