QUICKLINKS:
Xbox Live Arcade Reviews A - G | Xbox Live Arcade Reviews H - R |
Xbox Live Arcade Reviews S - Z |
Xbox Originals A - Z
Our Xbox Live Arcade ratings system
We've given every game a 'buy' rating of 'Yes', 'Maybe', or 'No'
Yes means this is a very high quality game, and we have no problem recommending it to anyone as long as they like the genre.
Maybe means we think the game is good, but not necessarily for everyone. If you know the game or like the sound of the description, go for it
No means that we don't recommend the title at all.
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Games listed in alphabetical order
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Hardwood Backgammon
Price: 400 Points
How much do you like backgammon? If it keeps you awake at night while you think about particular moves then Hardwood Backgammon is right up your alley. For everyone else, take a walk?
Worth buying? No
Hardwood Hearts
Price: 400 Points
Hardwood Hearts is another budget priced card game where you play through numerous versions of the Hearts. Hardwood Hearts doesn't offer up anything different so most people will want to skip this unless they really like Hearts.
Worth buying? No
Hardwood Spades
Price: 400 points
The Hardwood games were basically just filler when the Xbox Live Arcade launched, and Hardwood Spades is another game that is really only going to appeal to those who love card games, everyone else should keep their 400 points or purchase something else.
Worth buying? No
Heavy Weapon
Price: 800 Points
Heavy Weapon is a side scrolling shoot 'em up game. In the game you will guide a tank through several levels defeating a bundle of enemies which seemingly keep coming and coming. There are two modes in the game Mission mode and survival and several boss battles and weapons. Anyone who enjoys side scrolling action games will get a lot of fun out of Heavy Weapon others may want to look elsewhere however.
Worth buying? Maybe
Hexic HD
Price: 800 Points
Hexic HD is a game that everyone gets for free with their Xbox 360 premium. If you have a core or arcade console and simply have to play a Hexic title then look below.
Worth buying? No
Hexic 2
Price: 800 Points
Hexic 2 is one of the most unnecessary sequels yet. The idea of Hexic is to try to rotate hexagonal tiles to create patterns. The reason Hexic is so popular is because it is designed by the same person who created Tetris, but this doesn't mean Hexic is just as addictive. Hexic 2adds in an extra column and there are a few new modes. Anyone who simply has to play Hexic is best off with the sequel, but anyone who has a premium Xbox 360 shouldn't be tempted by a very basic upgrade.
Worth buying? Maybe
Ikaruga
Price: 800 Points
There are already an assortment of 2D scrolling shooters available on the Xbox Live Arcade, so we're always very wary when yet another one is added to the growing list. In this case, Ikaruga is already a proven critical success, after being released on both the Dreamcast and Gamecube in one form or another. Now, it's available for the almost criminal 800 points, and it combines what made the initial shooting experience so much fun, and then adds leaderboards, cooperative multiplayer and more, and is one of the more challenging experiences up for download. If you like shooters, you'll like Ikaruga.
Worth buying? Yes
Jetpac Refuelled
Price: 400 Points
Jetpac Refuelled is developed by Rare and is a upgraded version of Jetpac which was originally released for the ZX Spectrum. The idea is quite simple, players have to build, fuel and launch a rocket first, and this version of the game includes leaderboards and multiplayer support. The upgrades really do make it feel like a new game, rather than just a slapdash remake, so those looking for something a little bit different on the Xbox Live Arcade could do a lot worse than Jetpac Refuelled.
Worth buying? Maybe
Jewel Quest
Price: 400 Points
Jewel Quest is a puzzle game where the game grid is filled with jewels such as rubies and emeralds. The idea is to try and match three of the one type of jewel to make it disappear. Unfortunately with so many of these types of games available on the Live Arcade Jewel Quest just feels like a clone and isn't worth a download.
Worth buying? No
Joust
Price: 400 Points
Based on the old-school Midway classic, Joust allows players to mount their noble feathered steed (a weird flying ostrich type bird) and ride into battle against enemy knight where the objective is to pummel into your enemy until he keels over. While the game is presented in high-definition with a bunch of new backgrounds, the gameplay sticks to the same addictive formula that has made Joust an arcade favourite for over twenty years. The addition of online and offline co-op make this one worth a download.
Worth buying? Yes
Lost Cities
Price: 800 Points
Card games on the XBLA are a hit! That's the logic, anyway, with games such as Uno still remaining ridiculously popular and other titles such as Catan bringing a more strategic view to the table. Lost Cities is similar to our strategic friend, with the goal of the game to invest in expeditions to help further your progress in five different cities. The options here are thin, however, with only a bare-bones single player mode and some online multiplayer. The charm of other card games available simply isn't present, but the game isn't terrible either. If you've been desperate to have another shuffle, then this may be your cup of tea, but if you weren't interested in XBLA card-games before... this won't change your mind.
Worth buying? Maybe
Lumines Live!
Price: 800 Points
Lumines comes to the Xbox 360 with Lumines Live. it'sjust as fun as its PSP precessors and is now available for only 800 points. Fans of the series may get hooked on the "optional" downloadable packs which are priced a little too high for our liking, but for only 800 points it is very hard to turn down the basic package.
Worth buying? Yes
Luxor 2
Price: 800 Points
Luxor 2 is a puzzle game where you have to shoot a certain colour sphere into a moving collection of coloued spheres to eliminate the coloured spheres. It's an okay game, but definitely not one of the best on the Live Arcade.
Worth buying? Maybe
Mad Tracks
Price: 800 Points
PALGN Review
As one our lowest reviewed XBLA titles Mad Tracks is a very disappointing game. There is barely any sense of speed and for 800 points you only get a really basic package, with further (heftily priced) expansion packs already available on the Xbox Live Marketplace. Mad Tracks had the potential to be an enjoyable game but with tacked on achievements, boring multiplayer and monotonous gameplay it is definitely a title to steer clear of.
Worth buying? No
Marathon: Durandal
Price: 800 Points
PALGN Review
The FPS series that preceded Halo could easily be perceived as a big deal, especially to those that are major fans of the Bungie franchise (and we know there are a lot of you). The translation to the 360 hasn't exactly been a smooth one though, with many people getting motion sickness while playing the game. Despite this hiccup the gameplay in Marathon is fantastic which makes the game well worth the price of admission.
Worth buying? Yes
Marble Blast Ultra
Price: 400 Points
PALGN Review
As we mentioned in our review for Marble Blast Ultra it is a game that is well worth a download on the Xbox Live Arcade. In the game players take control of a marble and need to collect various objects before finding the goal in each level. There are some extremely challenging levels but the game is catered to those who persist with it. The only real disappointment is the lackluster multiplayer, which is still popular but not very exciting.
Worth buying? Yes
Metal Slug 3
Price: 800 Points
Considered the best in the Metal Slug series by some (we swear by the original Metal Slug X ourselves), Metal Slug 3 was one of the last games developed by SNK before they went out of business (they were later resurrected as SNK Playmore). And the designers clearly went all out on it. With more characters, transformations and vehicles, and a new branching path system, there was never so much variety in the run and gun genre.
While the game is still great, unfortunately the emulation is pretty spotty. The game uses another one of these awful graphics filters making it look a bit blurry, there are screen borders even when playing on an SD TV, and it's also the censored version, with all blood removed. Still, there are a few decent options (like an Easy mode), some brutal Achievements, and at 800 points it's definitely worth a play-through.
Worth buying? Yes
Missile Command
Price: 800 Points
Missile Command is another old game that has been given the modern revamp for XBLA. While the gameplay is essentially the same, Atari and developer Stainless Games have done a fantastic job of blending the gameplay of old with a modern visual style as you battle to defend your cities from a nuclear attack. The only noticible downside to Missile Command is that the Xbox control scheme doesn't feel as fluid as the original trackball design that the coin-op version possessed. But a low price point and the ability to play both the classic and evolved versions of the game make this a must buy for fans of classic arcade fare.
Worth buying? Yes
Mr. Driller Online
Price: 800 Points
The idea of putting the classic puzzle game on the XBLA and adding in an online mode seemed like a solid one; so it's a shame that Mr. Driller Online simply doesn't deliver the gaming goodness that its previous editions have. With so many puzzle games available for download, you have to seriously ask yourself whether this is going to be a game that you play with your mates continually, or is it merely a hit of nostalgia that you'll grow tired of after a few minutes of playing it? For fans of Mr. Driller, this could be worthwhile; others should think twice before purchasing.
Worth buying? Maybe
Ms. Pac-Man
Price: 400 points
Ms. Pac-Man on the Xbox Live Arcade is a pretty basic emulation of the arcade game. While still enjoyable Pac-Man Championship Edition is a much better recommendation.
Worth buying? No
Mutant Storm Empire
Price: 800 Points
PALGN Review
Mutant Storm Empire is the third title from PomPom Games and the second on the XBLA. Just like its predecessor, Mutant Storm Empire is a dual analog shooter (of which there is no shortage on the Arcade) divided into a number of levels, and is good for those who like chasing high scores. While it's not a very long game, there has been some co-operative multiplayer implemented. The game also sports a unique and organic art style.
Worth buying? Maybe
Mutant Storm Reloaded
Price: 800 Points
Mutant Storm was originally released on the PC by PomPom Games. When the XBLA was launched with the Xbox 360, the follow-up, Mutant Storm Reloaded was one of the first games available for download. A dual analog shooter, in the same way as Geometry Wars, but instead of being thrown into the single field, Mutant Storm Reloaded is divided into a number of levels. It's not a very long game, but those who like chasing high scores will be satisfied.
Worth buying? Maybe
N+
Price: 800 Points
Based off the 2005 PC Flash game called N, this simplistic looking ninja platformer has over 250 levels for you to jump and slide through, collecting bucketloads of ninja gold along the way. The gameplay in N+ is fluid and fun, jumping around each stage solving puzzles and avoiding enemies along the way, this game is well worth the 800 points, even if you've already spent some time playing the PC Flash version. With online multiplayer included, this one could last you a while.
Worth buying? Yes
New Rally-X
Price: 400 Points
New Rally-X is a maze racing game which has previously appeared as a special loading screen on Ridge Racer for the PSP. It's also had the honour of also appearing on several other Namco compilations and while the game stands up relatively well today, there are far better games on the Xbox Live Arcade.
Worth buying? No
Novadrome
Price: 800 Points
Novadrome is a game developed by the original developers of the Carmegeddon franchise. The game is a car combat title, where players are put in arenas and the main objective is just to stay alive. Despite featuring 24 different vehicles and 15 multiplayer maps Novadrome is not a good game. The game gets boring rather quickly, the controls are finicky and the cars handle poorly. We would rather Carmageddon was ported over.
Worth buying? No
Omega Five
Price: 800 Points
Omega Five is a shooter and it's a good one. However, even though the game is unique and contains some incredible action there are only four levels and there is no online co-op which seems like a sore omission. This means that only those who aren't too concerned about getting value for their 800 points should pick this game up, there are other better value shooters on the Live Arcade.
Worth buying? Maybe
Outpost Kaloki X
Price: 800 Points
Outpost Kaloki X is a city building game which debuted alongside the Xbox Live Arcade. In the game players will need to build a fantasy space station. Kaloki X is surprisingly complex, features quite a bit of depth, and there are also a few different single player options as well. Those who are after a deeper Xbox Live Arcade title shouldn't have any hesitation in picking this up.
Worth buying? Yes
Pac-Man
Price: 400 Points
With three different versions of Pac-Man on the Xbox Live Arcade there can only be one title we recommend and it is the title below.
Worth buying? No
Pac-Man Championship Edition
Price: 800 Points
If you are tired of the thousands of different versions of Pac-Man and want more then Pac-Man Championship Edition is for you. Developed by the original Pac-Man creator, it fatures the first new Pac-Man mazes in more than 26 years. The graphics have been overhauled and there are a few simple tweaks made to the game which keeps it entertaining for Pac-Man veterans and fun for new players.
Worth buying? Yes
Paperboy
Price: 400 Points
Paperboy is another game that was destined to be released on the Xbox Live Arcade, just because it has appeared on every platform ever. In Paperboy players have to drive up a street on a bicycle delivering newspapers to houses while avoiding obstacles such as lawnmowers and dogs. At the end of the day you will pick up new customers or lose customers based on how well you delivered each customer's newspaper. It's a basic game that is still quite a bit of fun. Because the game stands up pretty well today it may be worth a download for a nostalgia fix.
Worth buying? Maybe
Penny Arcade Adventures: On the Rain-Slick Precipice of Darkness: Episode One
Price: 1600 Points
Fans of the constantly referred to comic strip know exactly what this game is going to be all about, but for those who don't know about the comic strip, don't worry, because there is actually a very decent RPG here - possibly the best downloadable RPG available on Xbox Live. Sure, it may be a hefty price tag as one of the most expensive games on the Marketplace, but you'll get around 6-8 hours worth of solid gameplay from this turn-based RPG, and it gets the important gaming mechanics right. Keep in mind also, that this is only Episode One, with more on the horizon; even so, if you have any interest in RPGs at all, Penny Arcade is well worth the asking price.
Worth buying? Yes
Pinball FX
Price: 800 Points
Pinball arrives on the Xbox Live Arcade with Pinball FX. The game originally launched with three tables which we considered to be rather limited, but a fourth table was added in October, 2007. The game also utilisees the Xbox Live Vision camera and can be played online. Aside from the small number of tables Pinball FX is quite entertaining, although we're not too sure how long it will hold your attention for.
Worth buying? Maybe
Prince of Persia Classic
Price: 800 Points
PALGN Review
Prince of Persia got a major following when a new version was made for consoles last gen, but it was the original that a long time ago captured the attention of many gamers and, at the time, helped revolutionize platforming. Gameloft has given it a massive graphical upgrade and also updated the gameplay to be less frustrating. The game is still very short and does suffer from some combat issues, but if you can tolerate these Prince of Persia Classic may be stealing away your sands of time.
Worth buying? Maybe
Poker Smash
Price: 800 Points
Poker Smash is a hybrid of the card game we know and love combined with puzzlers similar to Bejeweled. Instead of matching up gems of some kind, the goal here is to match up the cards you're presented to make Poker hands and get the highest score possible. Including both single and multiplayer modes, Poker Smash does nothing overly different from other puzzlers, but the fact that cards are used instead of jewels could be enough to get Poker fans interested. It looks rather stylish, too, but with so many other puzzle games of this type on the Arcade, it might not be worth the asking price.
Worth buying? Maybe
Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords
Price: 1200 Points
Ported from the PSP version, Puzzle Quest is one of the most addictive experiences we have ever come across. Combining the puzzle gameplay of Bejeweled with some great RPG elements, doing battle with evil has never been so much fun. The game can be taken online, but even in its main offline mode you can easily lose hours or even days puzzling your way to victory against the forces of darkness. Despite the more expensive price, it's worth every point.
Worth buying?Yes
Rez HD
Price: 800 Points
Rez HD finally arrives on the Live Arcade and at the bargain price of 800 Microsoft points. Rez HD isn't just one of the most beautiful games you'll ever play, it's also one of the most addictive games you'll ever play, or experience. The Xbox Live Arcade version includes new levels, as well as three modes, including Easy, Main and Score Attack. This is a game that should not be missed.
Worth buying? Yes
Roboblitz
Price: 1200 points
Roboblitz was one of the first games released on the Xbox Live Arcade which uses the Unreal Engine 3. In the game players take control of Blitz a robot who can get upgrades and also has access to special powers. The game is good fun, but a little bit overpriced now.
Worth buying? Maybe
Robotron: 2084
Price: 400 Points
Robotron: 2084 is yet another dual joystick arcade shooter, this one was originally released in 1984 by Midway. The Xbox Live Arcade version also includes enhanced graphics and leaderboard support so it may be worth a purchase for those who just cannot get enough dual joystick arcade shooters.
Worth buying? Maybe
Rocketmen: Axis of Evil
Price: 800 Points
Rocketmen: Axis of Evil is a shoot-em-up in the style of similar XBLA titles like Smash TV, except with a modernized look to it and some RPG-lite elements thrown in there for good measure. What comes out is a somewhat jumbled experience that isn't really comfortable to play. While co-op play is certainly a lot of fun, the game is a tad too repetitive for solo players, and the camera is a bit awkward as well. Rocketmen probably could have used some more time in production to really get these problems ironed out and figure out a way to make its ideas combine a little better. As it stands, it's hard to recommend for the asking price.
Worth buying? Maybe
Rocky and Bullwinkle
Price: 800 Points
Rocky and Bullwinkle was one of our favourite cartoons growing up as a kid, so we had a kind of excitement when we heard there was going to be a version available for download. Our excitement stopped when we found out all the title gave us was a bunch of mini games. Our excitement was never going to return when we played the game and realised just how simplistic and... well... not fun the experience was. Then we realised it cost 800 points, and we were nearly sick. These kinds of compilations don't work here, and this is nowhere near worth the asking price, even if your kids are begging you to buy it for them.
Worth buying? No
Root Beer Tapper
Price: 400 Points
Developer: Digital Eclipse Software
If filling up glass after glass of root beer sounds appealing to you, then you should get this game - or become a bartender. For everyone else, they should probably try this out first. To be fair, there is a reasonable amount of content crammed into this 1983 classic, and it's not too expensive, but if the initial gameplay of filling up beer after beer as quickly as possible doesn't appeal to you, even 400 points might seem a bit expensive.
Worth buying? Maybe
Rush 'N Attack
Price: 400 Points
Also known as iGreen Beret, Rush 'N Attack is an action platforming game originally released in 1985 by Konami. Players take on the role of a United States special ops soldier who has to infiltrate the base of the enemy. The difference between Rush 'N Attack and the thousands of other action platformers is that your weapon is limited to only a knife. Rush 'N Attack sounds fun but in reality it isn't and just playing the trial will be enough for most people.
Worth buying? No
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