Must have games this Christmas

Dec 23 2009 By Richard Evans

There are two must have games this Christmas for Xbox 360 and Playstation 3 owners:

FIFA 10 is the most realistic, totally authentic and brilliant football game you will ever play- fact.

In years gone by Konami’s Pro Evolution had those bragging rights, FIFA 09 whipped out that legacy and EA’s latest installment takes the experience one step further. The game’s 360 degree control system means players feel even more responsive than ever before with every touch of the joy-pad. The game sparkles with the usual gloss and shine and the array of league licences, kits, club and international teams coupled with the game’s brilliant ball physics make this a must for every footy fan.

9/10

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 is amazing! This is a first class sequel which is even better than the also brilliant first installment. I won’t bore you with the story, but basically a group of terrorists trick Russia into declaring war on and invading the USA.

Equipped with an amazing arsenal of modern weapons it is your job to defend the United States against the invading Russians.

This really as good as it’s going to get, the one player campaign is engrossing but short-lived, but it is the multi-player game both on-line and at home where the real battles will be fought.

This is as good as Goldeneye on the N64 and Halo on the original Xbox were in their day- epic. 9/10

Nintendo DS owners can have a seasonal fun with Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games.

Hand-held gamers who enjoyed the previous summer Olympics game will enjoy this offering which is a great pick-up and play title for long train or plane journeys, or even a winter’s afternoon on the sofa.

As with the first Mario and Sonic at the Olympics the games are pretty hit and miss, with some levels more fun than others, particularly those which use the stylus.

While ice hockey and skiing are great fun other events frustrate by favouring the D-pad. A worthy stocking filler. 7/10

Nintendo Wii owners can take retro to a whole new level with Medieval Games. The title features a whole host of party and mini games for the family. Whether it is jousting, archery, sword fights or chasing pigs around a pen this is a game which will satisfy those who want to whittle away Christmas Day with something more than charades.

The action features great humour and will brighten up many a Christmas Day party with multi-player fun. Archery is definitely one of the highlights, as the use of the Wii Remote work well. With over 30 mini games to enjoy this is a perfect party game for a boozy evening or festive afternoon. On the downside the control system doesn’t always work as well as it should, and more serious gamers might want to look elsewhere. Still good party fun.

6/10