Down and Dirty Reviews: Playstation -- N - Z

This great machine has loads of games for it, some good, some bad. Before you get too mad at these reviews here, I don't go for many unoriginal ideas and I like something in the action department with a good storyline or something like that. I try to play as many games has possible but some just can't be reviewed at this time. "You dare read it on?" Go ahead, but I warned you!

The scores are out of 100.

The graphics, sounds, and gameplay are out of 10.

65 N: NAMCO MUSEUM vol. 1 (Namco, 1997)
Want to play a few old school legends all over again? You can now play a few legendary (and so legendary) classics like Namco's mega popular Pac Man in this cool 7 in 1 CD collection. Namco Museum is good for retro fans since the games still pack a lot of challenge and the game's museum content offers tons of info but its not for anyone else though because these games look very out dated and the nearly 30 second load times are a killer. Pac Man, Toy Pop, Galaga, Rally X, New Rally X, Boscanian, and Pole Position are the games on this disc by the way. Namco Museum isn't the best collection of old school games in one set but if you can get it cheap then I say go for it.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 3
sound: 3
gameplay: 8

Find this game on eBay here!

62 A: NAMCO MUSEUM vol. 2 (Namco, 1997)
This Namco arcade collection features even more obscure titles then ever before. Super Pac Man, Mappy and Gaplus (Galaga II) are good action titles here but that's it really and those two are some of the black sheeps of their respective series. You also get the titles Xevious, Dragon Buster and Grobda but these are not nearly as fun as the others on the collection. I'm glad to see this awesome series raise in value on eBay, 'A' here is really rare!
*Uncommon Playstation game
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 3
sound: 3
gameplay: 6

Find this game on eBay here!

67 M: NAMCO MUSEUM vol. 3 (Namco, 1997)
These Musuem games must have been selling well because here is the third one here. Ms. Pac Man, Pole Position II, Tower of Dragua, Galaxian, and Dig Dug are still cool games in this third Museum series but the long load times are still here unfortunately and they still suck. This is also the most common game in the Namco Museum series so it should be the cheapest to get but it is also the best one of this five part series.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 3
sound: 3
gameplay: 7
Find this game on eBay here!

46 O: NAMCO MUSEUM vol. 5 (Namco, 1998)
You now get the games: Motocross, Legend of Valkyle, Dragon Spirit, and Pac Mania. Even Dragon Spirit kind of blows when compared to the TurboGrafx-16 game because your dragon is just too big not to get hit. There is nothing too special in these 5 games from the mid and to late eighties.
*Uncommon Playstation game
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 5
sound: 4
gameplay: 6

Find this game on eBay here!

53 NEED for SPEED II (EA, 1996)
Part II of this popular series is your standard and very outdated racer that's not as good as the first one that premiered on the 3DO. One big problem is the lack of a pursuit mode so you don't get the cops chasing you so the game feels more watered down. As a street racer it's only mildly fun and it just lacks the options will bored all who are use to bigger games like Gran Turismo.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 6
sound: 7
gameplay: 5
Find this game on eBay here!

GAME OF THE MONTH COLLECTION!
92 NECTARIS: MILITARY MADNESS (Jaleco/Hudson Soft, 2000)
Finally, another Military Madness game! This was one of my all time favourites games on the old TurboGrafx-16 and now it is on the Playstation plus it even has more levels and better visuals to support the PS technology here. In this title you battle on the moon and your different air and ground units must stop the Xenon army before they launch a giant missile on earth. What makes the game so addictive is the easy to use interface and the game is loaded with tons of depth too. If you like strategy games then you'll love this.
*Uncommon Playstation game
For 1 or 2 players
Rated (T) for Teen
graphics: 7
sound: 6
gameplay: 9

Find this game on eBay here!

57 NIGHTMARE CREATURES (Activision, 1996)
The game ask the question can you survive in a ravaged town filled with horrible mutants and demons? Do you even care? This plays better than the N64 version thanks to the better controls...... but that's still not saying too much though. Think of Nightmare Creatures as a second rate 3D Resident Evil.
For 1 player only
Rated (M) for Mature
graphics: 7
sound: 6
gameplay: 5
Find this game on eBay here!

65 ONE
In this overlooked title you have no memory of who you are and it get's even stranger because you have a gun for an arm and you are definitely going to need it. One has lots of shooting action that reminds me of a B action movie but it's maybe too confusing to play that times thanks to the odd camera angles.
For 1 player only
graphics: 8
sound: 6
gameplay: 6
Find this game on eBay here!

60 PANDEMONIUM 2 (Edios, 1997)
Pandemonium 2 is a very routine action game that takes place in a 2D/3D world similar to games like Crash Bandicoot. This game starts a crazy jester and a hot red headed girl looking to become famous but these two characters don't have a lot of moves or techniques so the action get very stale after a while. Don't expect too much game play from this older Playstation game here.
For 1 player only
graphics: 6
sound: 5
gameplay: 4
Find this game on eBay here!

85 PARAPPA The RAPPER (Sony, 1997)
This oddly named game may seem too weird for some gamers but if you stick with it you'll discover that it is a very original and funny rapping game with a challenging 6 levels of wacky characters and addictive game play. Parapper the Rapper also comes with some catchy music and a great theme.
For 1 player only
graphics: 7
sound: 9
gameplay: 7
Find this game on eBay here!

79 PARASITE EVE (Square, 1998)
Parasite Eve is a creepy yet stylish 3D action RPG starring a blonde cop women fighting deadly mutants in New York City. What sets this apart from other role playing games is the graphics look excellent with a great use of Computer Generated cinemas and some truly freaky looking enemies. The game play reminds me of Quest 64 on the N64 a little because of the 3D grid system used in the battles but this game has a more serious feel of course. PE maybe short and a little linear but this game may still surprise you.
For 1 player only
Rated (M) for Mature
graphics: 9
sound: 8
gameplay: 6
Find this game on eBay here!

41 PARASITE EVE II (Square, 2000)

I was really looking forward to playing this game after only playing a mere 14.99 for it, and everyone knows Squaresoft makes the best RPG's in the world, eh? Who could forget the awesome original Parasite Eye with it's killer computer generated graphics, smooth controls, and a rather nice looking main character. Parasite Eve II could have been something else but Squaresoft did something really stupid and they pretty much killed off this once popular series here. PE II has some all new super looking rendered graphics in the cinemas and backgrounds plus the game is filled with a lot violence and a lot of gruesome flesh, the controls however are just like those in a game called Resident Evil. Anyone whose has played those type of games knows what a pain in the neck these controls can be. Talk about unoriginal and tiresome. Parasite Eve II may have killed a promising franchise.
For 1 player only
Rated (M) for Mature
graphics: 9
sound: 8
gameplay: 2
Find this game on eBay here!

63 PERSONA (Altus, 1996)
Here is a very slow moving RPG with crude 3D graphics and oddly angled 2D looks as well. The story involves a bunch of young teenagers who find their world falling apart, it's up to them to discover the truth by fighting the demons and monsters that have suddenly appeared. Certainly not a game for everyone because it can be very demanding or even confusing to play but it can still be fun once you know where to go.
For 1 player only
graphics: 6
sound: 7
gameplay: 8
Find this game on eBay here!

65 PHILOSOMA (Sony, 1995)
Philosoma is a very standard shooter that goes into cool looking multi-perspectives every so often to show off some of those cool Playstation 3D effects. The game doesn't look nearly as smooth as Square's Einhander but if you like shooters then give this a try because it still packs a lot of action.
For 1 player only
graphics: 8
sound: 7
gameplay: 5
Find this game on eBay here!

43 POCKET FIGHTER (Capcom, 1999)
This new Street Fighter is a lot like all other previous Capcom one on one fighters but this comes with 12 very goofy looking super deformed characters from past Street Fighter and Dark Stalkers games. I guess the lure of this game is that when you perform multiple combos the characters may transform into different outfits on the fly. This is cute yes, but why play this when you could play a real fighter instead?
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 4
sound: 2
gameplay: 5
Find this game on eBay here!

67 POY POY (Konami, 1997)
The game has some ugly looking graphics and the game play is too confusing to be as good as Hudson Soft's popular Super Bomberman 2 or Bomberman '93 but the game is still a wild party game. Poy Poy is a weird but fun game in the multi-player mode so if you have the multi-tap then you may want to look into this.
For 1 to 4 players
graphics: 4
sound: 5
gameplay: 7
Find this game on eBay here!

12 PSYCHIC DETECTIVE (EA, 1995)
This is easily one of the best Full Motion Video games in history! Ha ha, sadly this is nothing more then a limited murder mystery game that still sucks big time though and most of the time I was confused to what was really going on here.
*Rare Playstation game
For 1 player only
graphics: 4
sound: 4
gameplay: 1
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58 PSYCHIC FORCE (Acclaim/Taito, 1997)
Psychic Force here is a very weird air fighter with 8 crazy characters battling in a enclosed cube. It's a OK one on one game if you don't mind fighting with mostly projectiles and loose controls. Definitely not a big hit for Acclaim or Taito but it is still a solid brawler.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 6
sound: 5
gameplay: 4

Find this game on eBay here!

72 QIX NEO (Mad Duck/Taito, 2003)

The old eighties legend from the arcades now hits the Sony Playstation in this very low-key release. This version plays a lot like the Sega Genesis version of Ultimate Qix so the graphics and sounds are not too impressive for a Playstation title but the fantastic draw or die game play still shines through. Qix Neo may be an older title but the challenge is still there.
For 1 player only
Rated (E) for Everyone
graphics: 6
sound: 5
gameplay: 4

Find this game on eBay here!


62 RAGE RACER (Namco, 1997)
This is the sequel to Ridge Racer Revolution and it features all new race tracks and lots editable options too so you're getting another good title in this series. Even the music is good but the only thing holding it back is that the graphics absolute stink! Still a decent game I would recommend you pick up R4 instead of this.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 5
sound: 7
gameplay: 7

Find this game on eBay here!


85 RAIDEN PROJECT(Sony/Keibu, September 9, 1995)
Two hit arcade games that don't really differ much from one another are still very addictive and wild shooters overall. Raiden II really shows off the strong 2D effects of the Playstation. Even though there is loads of enemies and bullets on the screen there is absolutely no slow down. Raiden Project comes highly recommend by the Star Soldier.
*Uncommon Playstation game
For 1 or 2 players
Rated (K-A) Kids to Adults
graphics: 8
sound: 7
gameplay: 8

Find this game on eBay here!


80 RAYMAN (UBIsoft, September 1995)

In this amazing looking title you have to help your limbless hero defeat a evil wizard who his capturing innocent Lums creatures and using their energy for his evil plans. Rayman is an original 2D action/adventure with great graphics and good fantasy music too but don't be fooled by the cute visuals because this is one hard game.
For 1 player only
graphics: 9
sound: 8
gameplay: 6
Find this game on eBay here!

69 RAY STORM (Working Designs/Taito, 1997)
This game has some very good 3D graphics and groovy music here so it definitely wins some presentation points. As a game though Ray Storm is a very standard overhead shooter with only 8 short levels and a very basic power up system. It's great that you can lock on to targets in the backgrounds but even that gets old. At least this is two players unlike the game’s sequel.
*Rare Playstation game
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 8
sound: 7
gameplay: 5
Find this game on eBay here!

62 RESIDENT EVIL (Capcom, 1996)
The Game Cube game also arrived on the Playstation. Resident Evil is a little on the cheesy side at times because of some of the live action video and some poor voice acting but still a fun horror game that plays a lot like Alone in the Dark. Those awkward controls have to go though.
For 1 player only
graphics: 7
sound: 7
gameplay: 7
Find this game on eBay here!

81 RESIDENT EVIL 2 (Capcom, January 28 1998)
Part 2 is a impressive sequel to the original with a much better storyline (no cheesey live actors here) and more eerie graphics but still has the same out of date controls were you have to press Up to move everywhere. Resident Evil 2 had its problems but the game is still very intense plus the 2 disc swapping system was a cool idea as well.
For 1 player only
Rated (M) for Mature
graphics: 9
sound: 7
gameplay: 7
Find this game on eBay here!

67 RESIDENT EVIL 3 Nemesis (Capcom, 1999)
It controls the same AGAIN! Sure, I'm playing as the chick from the first game but I'm not going to even bother with this one besides it just seems like a lame side story to the second one anyway but now a giant mutant follows you around the same ravaged city. Resident Evil 3 is not a true sequel in my opinion eventhough the game still looks great.
For 1 player only
Rated (M) for Mature
graphics: 8
sound: 6
gameplay: 5
Find this game on eBay here!

67 RIDGE RACER (Namco, September 9, 1995)
There's only one track in this game, but it still grows on you because the track is fairly large and the award system works well. I really hated this game when it was first introduced because your game is over after you finish the race but at least you can unlock secret features if you are good enough.
For 1 player only
graphics: 7
sound: 7
gameplay: 5
Find this game on eBay here!

65 RIDGE RACER REVOLUTION (Namco, 1996)
Revolution is a upgrade to the original Ridge Racer and now it features a new two player mode and even the mini game has been upgraded with Galaga '88 challenging levels. Overall though RRR is nothing too new and even the graphics look the same but it's still fun for a few days.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 7
sound: 7
gameplay: 5

Find this game on eBay here!

81 RIDGE RACER TYPE 4 (Namco, 1999)
This popular series returns again but now it comes with loads of new cars, all new story lines, and excellent new controls too. This even looks a lot like Gran Turismo too which is certainly not a bad thing especially after playing the awful looking Rage Racer. If you are looking for one of the best racing games on the Playstation look no further.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 9
sound: 8
gameplay: 7
Find this game on eBay here!

21 RISE 2 (Acclaim, 1996)
This slow robotic fighter that's tires to be the next Street Fighter II but it's just way too hard to control and it even has overly long load times as well. In this game you get to play as a wide range of goofy looking gizmos on a mission to beat up one another. None of the characters are interesting and the action is clunky and boring. This is the sequel to Rise of the Robots by the way ............... the sequel nobody wanted!
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 6
sound: 6
gameplay: 3

Find this game on eBay here!

69 RIVAL SCHOOLS (Capcom, 1998)
Yup, it's yet another fighting game from Capcom, again! To be fair though Rival Schools is a unique, if goofy looking fighting game where men and women from various high schools fight one another to prove who is the toughest. It's another Capcom fighter so you know what to expect but at least there are plenty of modes here and the controls are excellent.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 5
sound: 6
gameplay: 7
Find this game on eBay here!

50 RIVEN: The sequel to Myst (Acclaim, December 1997)
In this sequel to the popular but sometimes hated Myst you get to wonder around a new island to discover stuff that are out of place in order to solve the mystery behind a strange family. This 5 disc set may sound cool but you have to switch discs on a regular basis which slows down the game's pace even more. Action seekers should stay far away from Riven.
For 1 player only
graphics: 8
sound: 5
gameplay: 6
Find this game on eBay here!

71 RPG MAKER (Agetec, May 2000)
Yes! This cool game lets you try and create your very own RPG game from scratch. It's a very hard to learn game and some of the options can be kind of limited as well (don't expect to create Final Fantasy 7) but it's still a lot of fun to try out especially if you feel that you can make a better Role Playing games then the ones out there.
For 1 player only
graphics: 7
sound: 7
gameplay: 9

Find this game on eBay here!


76 R TYPE DELTA (Agetec/Irem, 1999)
R Type Delta marks the return of the popular home and arcade shoot em up that's now over 10 years old. This all new game features the choice of three different ships (plus a secret ship as well), brand new 3D style graphics on a fixed traditional 2D plane, and you have to master 7 new challenging levels. You can also now fire a powerful new Delta attack if you take enough hits on the Pod unit too. Is R Type Delta worth looking into or not? R Type Delta is so challenging that it's easily one of the toughest games on the Playstation but like most shooters the controls are not an issue, you just need to master the game over time. Although it's a great 2D/3D shooter, it's really not too different from the Super Nintendo game R Type III from a few years ago and I don't think everybody will be impressed by classic feel in today's standards. There is no two player mode or other uniques feature of options for more variety. Being a hardcore R Type fan I enjoyed the game but it's a good idea to rent it first you're unsure.
For 1 player only
graphics: 8
sound: 7
gameplay: 7
Find this game on eBay here!


GAME OF THE MONTH COLLECTION!
85 R TYPES (Agetec/Irem, 2000)
There are only two R Types (R Type and R Type II) here in this collection but they are pretty darn good games anyway you look at it and both are very challenging shooters. The reason the score is so high is because now I can save my top scores to a memory card and you can continue a game for later thanks to a level select option for both games. R Types is a great set of games for any shooter fan out there, whether or not they thought it was too hard or they just played the games to death before. R Types will not only save your high scores but you also learn some of the R Type history and enemies as well. "If you love classic shoot em ups then don't miss R Types!"
For 1 or 2 players
Rated (E) for Everyone
graphics: 7
sound: 7
gameplay: 8
Find this game on eBay here!

33 SAGA FRONTIER (Square, 1998)
Here is a really pathetic RPG with really sad 16-bit-like looks (2 frame animations and stupid looking super deformed characters) and highly boring levels. In the game you can pick from one of seven characters and the more your heroes fight the more experience they'll gain but unlike other role playing games this is surprisingly slow especailly compared to Final Fantasy VII. Despite some interesting story line ideas, this is still a black eye for the guys at Square Soft.
For 1 player only
graphics: 3 ............. very flat compared to Final Fantasy 7
sound: 4
gameplay: 5
Find this game on eBay here!
SECOND OPINION!
Saga Frontier 2: (there is no review for this one)
Kinda a rip of Suikodens gameplay. You threw an entire time period, go there life and death of gustave and even after death. Fight 3 different battle systems like a standard Suikoden type, a one on one battle (suikoden again) and a shining force battle.
Graphics: 6-Not much changed, water color paintings
Sound: 9-Love the battle
Gameplay: 6-A lot like suikodens
-Rune

38 SAMURAI SHODOWN III: Blades of Blood (Sony/SNK, 1996)
"What happened?" This Samurai Shodown III game here is a very poor translation of an average weapon arcade fighter. In it you can select from 12 unique fighters each with a different weapon plus you can choose a evil or good path if you want. It's a cool idea but the game is loaded with long load times and the poor animations are especially bad when compared this to the real Neo Geo arcade title.
*Uncommon Playstation game
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 5
sound: 6
gameplay: 4
Find this game on eBay here!

49 SAN FRANCISCO RUSH: Extreme Racing (Midway/Atari Games, 1998)
In this land mark racing game you race across the streets of San Francisco, but what makes Rush so different than other racers is the crazy jumps and all the wracky short cuts. Sadly, although the controls are great and the audio is not too bad either, it comes with huge load times which really slow down this version of Rush.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 5
sound: 6
gameplay: 7
Find this game on eBay here!

50 SHOOTER Space Shot (2001)

Holy crap! What's the deal with that name here? Still Space Shot is a better than expected shoot em up with some good sets of weapons but what's the deal with that very stupid and generic name? It's kind of plays like a ugly looking Einhander type of shooter that's a good value for $9.99 at least.
For 1 player only
graphics: 6
sound: 6
gameplay: 5
Find this game on eBay here!

79 SILENT HILL (Konami, 1999)
This thriller is even creepier than Capcom's overrated Resident Evil in my opinion and this slasher game even has better controls too. In the game you help a father trying to find his lost daughter in a eerie ghost filled town with several undead creatures and a lot of unanswered questions. Although the graphics are too foggy and the voice acting isn't the best either, Silent Hill is still recommend for action fans looking for a good scare.
For 1 player only
Rated (M) for Mature
graphics: 8
sound: 7
gameplay: 7
Find this game on eBay here!

57 SIMPSON'S WRESTLING (Fox/Big Ape, May 2001)
This strange game is actually passable if you give it a chance. In it you pick from 8 different characters from the hit TV sitcom (Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, Ground's keeper Willie and some others) and battle it out in a wrestling ring. This is extremely limited when compared to WWF No Mercy on the N64 but it was fun to unlock new characters like Ned Flanders and Mr. Smiters and the game can be pretty funny at times too. I just wish it was on a stronger system like the PS2, Dreamcast or even the N64 (OK, that system isn't really better nor worse then Playstation but at least it could have gotten rid of the load times).
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 6
sound: 7
gameplay: 4
Find this game on eBay here!

95 SOUL BLADE (Namco, 1996)
This game plays just as good as its sequel Soul Calibur on Dreamcast at least that's what I believe. One of the things that makes this fighting game so amazing, each warrior here can enter a quest to earn 10 different weapons each in the cool story based Master Edge mode. This game is actually based on the not too successful arcade game Soul Edge, but Namco noticed they had a dud on their hands and they made sure that Soul Blade was even better than that average game thanks to all the cool bonus features. Soul Blade comes very recommend!
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 7
sound: 9
gameplay: 9
Find this game on eBay here!

35 SOUTH PARK (Acclaim, September 1, 1999)

The Nintendo 64 game also comes to the Playstation but don't run to the stores just yet. If you haven't played the N64 game you pick from one of four foul monthed kids and you must save your town South Park from turkeys, aliens, and other nut bars with weapons like snow balls, and even cow launchers. It sounds like fun but the first person action gets very repetitive and the graphics take a big hit as well. Even South Park fans would hate this one.
For 1 or 2 players
Rated (M) for Mature
graphics: 4
sound: 6
gameplay: 5
Find this game on eBay here!

62 South Park CHEF'S LUV SHACK (Acclaim, 2000)
Chef has a funny game show type of game that is a lot those 'You don't know Jack' games but now this has a cool South Park theme to it too. The game even looks and sounds like the TV show but I hated the constant loading times and the repeating questions. If you like the show and you are over 17 then you may like this party game.
For 1 to 4 players
Rated (M) for Mature
graphics: 6
sound: 9
gameplay: 6

Find this game on eBay here!


57 SPEED RACER (Jaleco, 1996)
Here is an old but still popular anime that arrives on the Playstation but is it any good. Well, in this very basic racing game your car can do some special abilities like super jumps but there are hardly any chances to use them. What we are left with is a Ridge Racer clone but what it lacks in originality, it make up in speed and action. I never saw the older Anime before but it looks kind of cool in this game.
*Rare Playstation game
For 1 player only
graphics: 6
sound: 5
gameplay: 6
Find this game on eBay here!

74 SPIN JAM (Empire, 2000)
Here's a cool little gem. Spin Jam is a overly cute looking puzzle game that kind of plays like a Bust A Move or a Super Puzzle Pop that are also on the Playstation. There are a lot of cute characters to pick from and the girls are kind of hot too. In the game you shoot orbs into a moving sphere in hopes of scoring points before your opponent. I only paid $9.99 for this cool game so don't expect to pay too much for it either.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 6
sound: 7
gameplay: 7
Find this game on eBay here!

14 STAR BLADE Alpha X (Namco, September 9, 1995)
Never heard of Star Blade? This game is a really out dated shoot them up where you only control the fire power and not your movements of your star craft. This game suffers from a awful double negative, first the game is not only pretty weak looking but secondly there are way better playing 3D games like Star Fox and Colony Wars out there. Namco upgraded the graphics for PS owners but it still plays the same and the game play is what needed the most attention. Star Blade is a instant bore.
For 1 player only
graphics: 3
sound: 6
gameplay: 1
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53 STAR GLADIATOR Episode 1 (Capcom, November 1996)
I was really looking forward to this game because it was Capcom's first true 3D fighter to finally break the 2D barrier and it just looked amazing as well. Too bad it kind of sucks. Star Gladiator is your standard 3D fighter that's too confusing play, the load times are too long, and the endings really stink as well. This could of been a great title especially with these sharp graphics but it was not meant to be.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 8
sound: 8
gameplay: 4
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45 STAR WARS EPISODE 1 The Phantom Menace
What could have been a really stand out title only ended up being choppy to look at and even more boring to play. In the game you play has one of two heroes on a mission to protect the queen and her planet from being invaded by a corupt trade federation. Unfortunately, the levels are way too long and some are filled with some very difficult jumps. I recommend you just see the medicore movie instead and never play this lack luster action title with highly repetitive material.
For 1 player only
graphics: 4
sound: 5
gameplay: 5
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55 STAR WARS Masters of the TESA KARI
Here is a very weird fighting game based on the Star Wars universe that's a little too weird if you ask me. Luke Skywalker can even use his light saber during battles and that doesn't seem right in a one on one fighting contest where some fighters only have their bare hands like Slave Princess Lea. Sadly it really doesn't make too much of a difference because you won't be cutting off any limbs here.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 6
sound: 6
gameplay: 4
Find this game on eBay here!

55 STREET FIGHTER ALPHA (Capcom, 1996)
Here is yet another one of Capcom spin-off of Street Fighter II that's more of the same to fight fans. Even older guys like Ryu, Sagat, and Ken have the same moves in the previous Street Fighter II's but that should be no surprise because this is really a prequel to part II anyway. In other words, I don't like it!
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 6
sound: 5
gameplay: 7

Find this game on eBay here!

87 STREET FIGHTER ALPHA 3 (Capcom, 1999)
Simply put this is the best Street fighter game ever with loads of added stuff and over 30 characters to choose from including new comers like Cody from Final Fight (who has seen better days), Miya the bouncy female wrestler and Kirna; a rich girl who also happens to be a Kung Fu expert. Street Fighter Alpha 3 has some annoying loading problems but the game is still filled with options, secrets, and deep game play.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 7
sound: 9
gameplay: 9
Find this game on eBay here!

73 STREET FIGHTER EX PLUS ALPHA (Capcom/Akira, 1997)
Although this Street Fighter finally sports new 3D graphics, the one on one fighting game play mostly reminds the same. This new series has new features like a practice and arcade modes that works well but these blocky graphics are sure rough around the edges. Street Fighter EX wasn't the leap I expected but I love all the new stuff that can be unlocked.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 4
sound: 7
gameplay: 7
Find this game on eBay here!

58 STRIDER 2 (Capcom, 2000)

Here are two great arcade action games on one solid package. These futurist ninja style games would have rated a lot higher if there wasn't unlimited continues make the two games almost pointless in challenge. Strider 2 was especially easy since you can continue in place so you can finish the game at your leisure. The graphics are still awesome and the games play well too so there is still a lot to like here.
*2 Disc set
For 1 player only
Rated (E) for Everyone
graphics: 8
sound: 7
gameplay: 6

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72 SUIKODEN (Konami, 1996)
The popular (and expensive) series started right here. Suikoden features a very unique story line with some excellent music but it's nothing too new other wise in the RPG department. The 2D graphics are too traditional compared to what Square gives us in the current generation Final Fantasy series but the game play gets deeper and more compelling the further you get into it.
For 1 player only
graphics: 6
sound: 8
gameplay: 8

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85 SUPER PUZZLE FIGHTER II TURBO (Capcom, 1997)
Here is a underrated puzzle game starring characters from the Street Fighting and Dark Stalker series. In the game you must match up different jewels of different colours in hopes of breaking them and senting the garbage blocks to your opponent's side. It's also cool watching the tiny fighters beat the heck out of one another even though it's just for show. Puzzle Fighter here is a very recommend for puzzle freaks.
*Uncommon Playstation game
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 5
sound: 3
gameplay: 5
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32 TECMO STACKERS (Tecmo, 1996)
Tecmo usually makes some pretty good games but this is not one of them. Tecmo Stackers is a very unoriginal Kirby's Avalanche or Dr. Robotnik clone where you must match up colours to make them disappear. The problem is the game has super bad music that will destroy your ear drums, overly easy game play, and the game has no save feature either so your wasting your time. Leave this one alone puzzle fans because the action is very short lived. This one should have been called Tecmo Slackers!
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 4
sound: 1
gameplay: 6
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77 TEKKEN (Namco, September 9, 1995)

In the new 32-bit wars of 1995, the Sony Playstation had their new age 3D arcade fighter; Tekken, while the rival Sega Saturn had their Virtua Fighter as their arcade 3D fighter to help sell their respective systems. Being a fan of both fighting games it's hard to choose a favorite, but Namco's Tekken just slightly edges out its competition in my opinion......... well sometimes. Namco really pulled out all the stops with their first PS fighter and this game is still remains a great two player game and the replay value is good decent as well. What Tekken lacks in originality, it makes up in pure fighting fun.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 8
sound: 7
gameplay: 6

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82 TEKKEN 2 (Namco, 1997)
This sequel has more characters and way more moves than the first Tekken. Kazuya is now the master of the second Tekken Tournament after he defeated his father in the first game but just what kind of help did he get to win? Jun and Lei join the returning cast while Kazuya is replaced by his evil father Heihechi. Tekken 2 isn't much to look at but the game plays great and it is loaded with options.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 6
sound: 8
gameplay: 8

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91 TEKKEN 3 (Namco, 1998)
Tekken 3 takes place 20 years after the second tournament and sees the return of the original favourites Paul, Nina, Yoshimitsa, Lei. Tekken 3 also has a cast of 6 new fighters; Forest Law (the son of Marshall Law), Eddy Gordy, Hwonang, Xiayou a young Chinese chick with a new style of Kung Fu, Jin (Jun's and Kazuya'a son), and a new King under the tiger mask. Unfortunately this Tekken also includes a stupid new Tekken Force mode (a very limited version of a Final Fight type of game) and an unusual Beach Volleyball mode (hit one another with a beach ball), but Tekken 3 is still a cool 2 player game as always and now there are more fighting styles than ever. Eddy Gordo rocks!
For 1 or 2 players
Rated (T) for Teen
graphics: 8
sound: 9
gameplay: 7
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74 TEMPEST X3 (Interplay/Atari, 1996)
Tempest X3 is a fast and very intense upgrade to Atari's cult classic shooter Tempest 2000 originally on the Jaguar. The graphics can get repetitive but they are very trippy and have tons of style plus the music kicks major a$$. The game is still a little too hard to see the action at times thanks to some bad angels on certain webs but the game is still worth playing.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 8
sound: 10
gameplay: 6
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76 TENCHU (Activision, 1997)
Here is a cool and extremely bloody ninja game to where it's a good idea to kill your opponents even without them knowing. In the game you play as one of two highly skilled ninjas that must master the art of stealth to end the corruption in their country. Tenchu is one very innovative game that should please action fans.
For 1 player only
graphics: 7
sound: 6
gameplay: 9
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65 The NEXT TETRIS (Hasbro, 1999)
Tetris is back but the question is it any good? You know the deal, you guide falling bricks to create complete lines to score points. There are some cool new ideas added to the game play like new special effects like moving blocks here but not too different overall and some may prefer the older style Tetris to this new trippy version. This game is still fun to play and well worth a look.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 6
sound: 5
gameplay: 5
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59 THUNDER FORCE V Perfect System (Working Designs/Techno Soft, 1998)
It's cool to see this series make a comeback but there is not much new in this Thunder Force game. Part V is a very standard side scrolling shooter with the option to pick from 5 weapons once fully powered up and adjust your speed like previous editions. The graphics and sound are also nothing too special either but at least it's kind of interesting to see this classic Sega Genesis series return.
For 1 player only
graphics: 5
sound: 7
gameplay: 4
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58 THUNDER STRIKE 2 (1996)
Anyone remember the original? Anyway Thunder Strike 2 is a fair sequel to the old Sega CD shooting game where you hunt down your enemies in your fully loaded helicopter. It isn't all good because it's still a little on the slow and dull side especially when compared to other action packed flight simulations like Sony's earlier War Hawk.
For 1 player only
graphics: 7
sound: 5
gameplay: 7
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80 TOBAL No.1 (Square/Dream Factory, September 1996)
The Dragon Ball Z looking 3D fighter is similar to Virtua Fighter and Tekken but this game comes with 4 optional dungeons to explore to unlock various secrets. Too bad we never saw the popular Japanese sequel Tobal 2 because Sony wouldn't approve it after this game didn't meet sales expectations. This was Square's first ever Playstation release and it even had a early playable demo of Final Fantasy 7 if you buy the game complete. Tobal No. 1 is not the best looking game on the PSX but its a smart buy for fighting fans.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 6
sound: 7
gameplay: 8
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73 TOMB RAIDER (Edios, 1996)
It's 3D, it stars a beauitiful female with huge knockers, and the environments even look good too if you care? Tomb Raider sort of plays like Out of this World meets Indiana Jones meets a porno flick to make for one decent action packed title. This legendary game is also on the Sega Saturn. Some levels don't have a lot of action and the controls can be a bit on the stiff side but there is plenty to still like here.
For 1 player only
graphics: 8
sound: 6
gameplay: 7
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62 TOMB RAIDER II: Starring Lara Croft (Edios, 1997)
There isn't too much new or original here in this big sequel but there is a new flare gun I guess. Sadly, despite having some good looking scenery here and there, the ending here really sucks and it felt like the adventure just wasn't worth it. This could have been a classic but it feels too much like a expansion pack rather then a true sequel.
For 1 player only
graphics: 7
sound: 5
gameplay: 6
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30 TOMB RAIDER III: The adventures of Lara Croft (Eidos, 1998)
It was another year and so we had yet another Tomb Raider game but since this series was doing so well the third one had to be something special, right? Don't bet on it! Tomb Raider III has even weaker controls (the new analog control is absolutely useless too), fuzzy graphics, and the game has even more boring levels than before. All these things combined are killing this series off....... fast. This is awful, just awful!
For 1 player only
graphics: 4
sound: 4
gameplay: 4
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52 TOMB RAIDER IV (Eidos, 1999)
It's still not too late to get your money back................. OK, maybe it is now. Tomb Raider returns yet again as Lara Croft gets in real trouble this time and you even get some background information on Lara herself. Honestly, who cares that you can play Lara has a sixteen year old kid, uh? Anyway the game plays a bit better then the third one but the controls are still not very responsive.
For 1 player only
graphics: 6
sound: 2
gameplay: 4
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50 TOMORROW NEVER DIES (EA, 1999)
You would think with all the money EA had to buy the 007 license you would think they should be able to create a great game as well, eh? Sadly, this choppy 3D third person shooter has loads of problems. Sure, this game has some great musical scores and the game is easy enough to control but there is no multi-player here, the stages are boring, plus why is this only on the Playstation? I thought EA was a multiple platform company? I guess N64 owners are lucky that they never got a chance to play this but we are all losers here when a lack luster sequel gets made. This was was suppose to be the sequel to Goldeneye, one of best First Person Shooters of all time wasn't it?
For 1 player only
graphics: 5
sound: 6
gameplay: 6
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75 TOSHINDEN: Battle Arena (Sony, September 9 1995)
This premiere Playstation 3D fighter has great 3D graphics, loud soundtracks, and solid Street Fighter-like action with 8 wacky but cool characters to pick from. Each fighter has a wide range on special moves plus they even carry their weapon too like swords, spears, whips, and more. Although this game series had a lot of potential, the two sequels could not keep this once popular series alive.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 8
sound: 8
gameplay: 6
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40 TOSHINDEN 3 (Jaleco, 1997)
This final sequel to the series has a lot of cool features on the surface like new characters and new enclosed arenas, but what killed the third edition is the now slower game play. The game just tried too many things at once in hopes to clean up the series and failed at everything. Toshinden 3 is a sad ending to this once impressive fighter.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 4
sound: 5
gameplay: 4
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44 TOTAL ECLIPSE TURBO (3DO, 1995)
Total Eclipse Turbo is a forgettable 3D0 shooter that now becomes a forgettable shooter on the Sony Playstation. Although this 3D game tries hard to be the next Star Fox, the game doesn't have very good hit detection and it doesn't even change that much from level to level either so this game eclipses nothing.
For 1 player only
graphics: 5
sound: 4
gameplay: 4
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72 TWISTED METAL (Sony/SingleTrac, 1995)
Here's a Playstation classic, eh? Twisted Metal here is a very chaotic car racing adventure that may be very old now but this game is packed with vicious guns, loud music, and some demented 3D visuals. This wild game is even better for two player bouts where you get to fight it out in some dangerous arenas.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 7
sound: 7
gameplay: 8
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31 TWISTED METAL III (Sony, 1998)
If I could sum up the game I would say it realistic yet very boring. Twisted Metal III was a anticipated sequel to the cool first two titles but now the series takes a hit do to some bad physics and the graphics sucks too. They ruined everything cool about this series yet it still sold like crazy because of all the hype. Avoid this dust collector!
For 1 to 4 players
graphics: 5
sound: 5
gameplay: 1

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68 VANARK (Jaleco, 2000)
Never heard of this game before? Don't worry, you're not the only one. This here is a 3D shooter that is almost like Star Fox 64 for the Nintendo 64 but here get a little more background story on characters thanks to the non action scenes. The graphics were nice but the levels are kind of repetitive in design.
For 1 player only
graphics: 8
sound: 6
gameplay: 7
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71 VANDAL HEARTS (Konami, 1997)
Vandal Hearts is a very routine strategy RPG with a good story line, lots of characters, and the game even has lots of blood too which is kind of rare for a game like this. It's a short adventure with some very crude 3D graphics but it's a easy to play and it's a wild ride as well.
For 1 player only
Rated (M) for Mature
graphics: 6
sound: 8
gameplay: 7
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51 VIEWPOINT (EA/Sammy, 1995)
The Neo Geo shooter gets a graphical upgrade on Playstation but the main problem with the game is that it's too hard to avoid some of the many incoming bullets and you ship can only take one hit. I really hate the lack of weapons too plus the loading time are all too common as well. Just forget this one even if you liked the arcade game.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 7
sound: 6
gameplay: 3

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21 V. I. P. (UbiSoft, 2001)

Do you remember games like Dragon's Lair and Parappa the Rapper where you press the precise button at the right time to get anywhere? VIP uses a similar but really basic 'dial-a-move' command system where you must enter key buttons to make your silly characters fight off the criminal element. Canadian actress Pamela Anderson even lends her voice to the role of Vallery Irons here in this TV show gone game. If you want a easy going game with a cheesy story line then go ahead and give it a shot but be prepared for a fairly dumb-downed title with no real strategy involved.
For 1 player only
Rated (T) for Teen
graphics: 3
sound: 5
gameplay: 1
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TTR DUD OF THE MONTH COLLECTION!
14
WCW BACKSTAGE ASSAULT (EA Canada, December 15, 2000)
Sadly, this WCW game still runs of that awful WCW Mayhem engine. That means this Backstage Assault game has a lot of the problems that plagued EA's last wrestling game like poor graphics, awful animation, a serious lack of moves, and painfully long loading times. EA Sports did try to make a fun game of hardcore only wrestling (this is not ECW) but it ended up being boggled down by its many flaws instead. The graphics are ugly and lackluster, the wrestlers look nothing like their TV characters, and the controls are not very user friendly at all. Sure the Nintendo 64 game had a lot of these problems too but what kills the Playstation edition is the super slow loading times are 30 seconds long before and after a fight. Even diehard WCW fans will hate this lousy wrestling game.
For 1 or 2 players
Rated (T) for Teen
graphics: 1
sound: 8
gameplay: 6

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19 WCW THUNDER (THQ, January 1999)
Here is another WCW game that packs some awesome FMV wrestler intros but it also comes with some truly sucky controls. "This is why people hate the late WCW!" This awful game actually bumped off The Legend of Zelda: OOT from the top of the sales charts in January 1999, which is proof that a game doesn't have to be good to sell well (much like Tomb Raider III).
For 1 to 4 players
graphics: 3
sound: 5
gameplay: 1
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61 WILD ARMS (Sony, 1997)
Wild Arms is your standard 16-bit like RPG but what makes this game so unique is that this takes place in the wild, wild west. You play the role of the outcast of a old west town that has fallen on some hard times. Once you get exiled from your village that's when find two other friends and that when and now you're real adventure begins. Wild Arms is a good game for gamers who love the old school type RPG's but this is no Final Fantasy 7.
For 1 player only
graphics: 6
sound: 6
gameplay: 6
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73 WIPEOUT (Psychosis, October 1995)
This popular racing series started right here. Wipeout is a very cool looking Playstation hovercraft racer that not comes with some intense speed but it even comes with weapons. One of the few games that actually sold well for Psychosis but Wipe Out would have rated higher if it wasn't so hard.
For 1 player only
graphics: 7
sound: 8
gameplay: 5
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80 WIPEOUT XL (Psychosis, 1996)
The popular futurist racer returns again on the Playstation and it has more options, more vehicles, and even better graphics then ever before which is incredible because the original one looked better good too. It's still Wipeout though despite how impressive it is plus the load times are a little long as well.
*Link compatible
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 8
sound: 8
gameplay: 6
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76 WIPEOUT 3 (Psychosis, 2000)
This sequel features even has smoother graphics over Wipeout XL with some wild looking race tracks and excellent design. Sadly the game itself is more of the same. This game should already be in the discount bin with all the other Wipeouts though so you have no excuse not to pick one up.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 9
sound: 8
gameplay: 5
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47 WWF SMACKDOWN (THQ/Yukes, March 2000)
Smackdown is a wrestling game that's had a lot of potential to be the best there is but the game is a little too quick at times for it's own good and it makes the action a little too confusing. Even big guys like Test and Viscera are moving around like cruiserweights here. Although WWF Smackdown came off with a lot of hype, it's by no means WWF Wrestlemania 2000 on N64.
For 1 to 4 players
graphics: 5
sound: 4
gameplay: 6
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54 WWF SMACKDOWN 2: Know Your Role (THQ/Yukes, November, 2000)

I remember when the Smackdown series was so big that it easily sold over million copies in a mere couple of months but times have changed and this game just doesn't hold up too well anymore. The thing I really hate here is the constant loading times in this WWF sequel in between fight of the career mode. It does include loads of different matches like the vicious enclosed cage, the dangerous Hell in the Cell, the weird Coffin matches, and countless other possibilities. Smackdown 2 even has a much better create a wrestler mode so it possible to create almost any wrestler you want. Despite all the improvements here, the new season mode is just way too slow for my liking and the action is far too sloppy during the game. WWF No Mercy on the N64 is still the king of Wrestling games and when it's all said and done, this series just doesn't age too well.
For 1 to 4 players
graphics: 5
sound: 4
gameplay: 7
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70 WWF WARZONE (Acclaim, 1997)

When Acclaim had the WWF license (they would lose it a few years later) they shocked the world with this awesome wrestling game. In this game you get to pick from wide range of wack jobs and see if you can win the world title. The game has lots of modes and you can even unlock secrets but the controls take a lot of getting use since each wrestler has their own set of moves. The deveplers also knew that the WWF didn't exactly have all their favourite wrestlers at the time so to counter this they made a awesome Create A Wrestler (this is the game to do this) mode. Players could now make likeness of themselves or create wrestlers not officially in the game like Hulk Hogan. WWF Warzone isn't very easy to pick up and play compared to the most recent wrestling games but if are a fan of old school WWE (now named WWF) then be sure to get this beat em up.
For 1 to 4 players
graphics: 7
sound: 7
gameplay: 8
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79 XENOGEARS (Square, 1998)
Here is a somewhat rare game for a Square RPG with some really cool animation and some sharp graphics. The only problem the game has is the title's very boring story line that just continues to go on and on and on. Xenogears should keep you busy for a good month but there may be a good chance you'll fall asleep while playing through it. If you like RPG's though this game is a good bet.
*2 Disc set
For 1 player only
graphics: 8
sound: 8
gameplay: 8
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67 XEVIOUS 3D/G (Namco, 1997)
This game collection comes with Five shooters in one package but each one do not differ much from one another except maybe the newer 3D version of the game. Remember this overhead shooter with the annoying music in the early eighties? Xevious isn't a bad buy if you are a fan of the older games but either one of these games are compelling enough to compete with the big boys.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 6
sound: 6
gameplay: 8
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78 YOU DON'T KNOW JACK
The popular PC game also makes an appearance on the Playstation. You Don't Know Jack here is a darn funny trivia game with some very weird and interesting questions about movies, TV, and other general stuff. This is a great multi-player game for parties but the one player mode sure gets old fast.
For 1 to 4 players
graphics: 6
sound: 9
gameplay: 7
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70 ZERO DIVIDE
Zero Divide here gives us a very weird Virtua Fighter type of 3D game with robots instead of human fighters. It's a good game plus there is even a free secret SNES shooter game named Phalanx inside here as well which is a cool bonus. If you can get this old PSone cheap then I say why not.
For 1 or 2 players
graphics: 6
sound: 5
gameplay: 6

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