Well, let's continue, shall we? This will get more exciting now (I hope), and we're now in the top 100 (milestone!). I won't keep blabbing, let's go!

#100: Wario Land 2 (GBC) (1999)

Coming in at number 100, it's Wario Land 2! One word: awesome. WL2 is a wonderful platformer, with quirky gameplay, ingenious challenges and some awesome twists along the way. For instance, in the first game, you start off sleeping. By pressing a button, you wake up... but what if you don't press a thing? Bandits appear and steal you! Then you start on a new path to the end of the game. Yes, there are multiple last levels andmultiple final bosses. The bosses are genius as well, taking some very smart thinking to take down. WL2 offers so much content, so much innovation, that it would be crazy not to give it a shot...if you can find it.

GS review: 8.9

#99: Chibi-Robo (GC) (2006)

*sigh* So few people that know this game. It's a pure joy to play, simple as that. You're a super small cleaning robot, made to serve the Sandersons, an eccentric family with a comic-loving father, nit-picking mother and frog-obsessed daughter. You clean, you socialize and you do other seemingly menial tasks to make their life just a bit better. But it's so much more fun than you'd think. The atmosphere is incredibly charming, the game itself is incredibly funny and the various tasks are surprisingly fun. Finding it shouldn't be impossible, it recently got a "Different controls" make-over on the Wii, so if you see it, get it! It's so fun! And has nothing to do with me having OCD! Not at all! Seriously, though, get it!

GS review: 7.1

#98: Donkey Kong Country (SNES (GBA)) (1994 (2003))

Ever wonder about the definition of cIassic? Look no further, for that is exactly what DKC is. It's difficult, it's addicting and it's some of the most fun you can have legally and illegally. The music is fantastic, examples being Gangplank Galleon and Aquatic Ambiance, and the graphics, being amazing then, still look awesome today. DKC is a refreshing break from the platforming norm, and is a stellar game that everyone should play.

GS review for GBA remake: 7.9

#97: Zack and Wiki: Quest for Barbaros' Treasure (Wii) (2007)

Another game that went largely under the radar (maybe because of the name). This is an AMAZING game,Really, it's incredible. ZaW prove that the point-and-click genre is far from dead, and that the Wii's motion controls are almost perfect for it. The game is tough, with very smart puzzles and charming characters, not to mention great graphics and atmosphere. The game will stretch your logic thinking to the limit, and some are absolutely infuriating to solve...in a good way, of course. I just love ZaW. It should be easy to find, and it's also quite cheap by now, so if you see it, get it. Get it!

GS review: 8.5

#96: Chessmaster 9000 (PC) (2002)

Really, anything goes with the Chessmaster series. Pretty much all the entries are fantastic. But if memory serves correctly, 9000 was the one I played and loved. It takes skill to make chess something so instantaneously accessible and entertaining. Chess is awesome, we all know this. But making a game about it isn't easy. CM9000 does this impeccably. An incredibly smart AI, billions of options, great presentation and easy-to-use interface make this game a gem, and an experience all chess fans must experience.

GS review: 7.6

#95: Ratchet: Deadlocked (PS2) (2005)

I lurv Ratchet and Clank. And even though he's mostly missing in Deadlocked, the series is still the paragon of shooting platforming. Wonderful humor, story and gameplay abound. Yes, the story is disappointingly short, but it's a short but sweet adventure that is filled with thrilling action and exciting challenges. The arena setting takes the best from the rompouslyentertaining side-quest from the previous games, and the new gameplay elements work perfectly. A worthy title in the series, to be sure.

GS review: 8.6

#94: Zelda: Twilight Princess (Wii) (2006)

One of the longest series in the world, Zelda is also one of the most popular. I'm not a mad fan of the series, it's not in my top 5, but I know a good game when I see one, and TP is not only good, it's fantastic. It's complete fan service to the fans of Ocarina, and that's the way it should be. The adventure is bigger, more epic and more varied than ever before. It's also slightly darker, having some very sinister themes in the game. This all blends together to create a great adventure you won't forget for quite some time.

GS review: 8.8

#93: Resistance: Fall of Man (PS3) (2006)

The thing that makes Resistance so unique is its heritage. Insomniac is best known nowadays for its Ratchet and Clank series, and you can see the influence from the series here. You are given a bevy of different weapons, some out-of-this-world enemies and large, torn battlefields toencounter. Not only that, you'll see some real-live locations from Britain, which is awesome. The sequel was a disappointment IMO, but this one stands as one of the most unique and fun FPSs out there. Of course, this is Insomniac, what can we expect?

GS review: 8.6
My review: 9.1

#92: Game and WatchGallery 4 (GBA) (2002)

Not many remember Game and Watch...maybe because most weren't born then. One of Nintendo's earliest ganders at gaming, Game and Watch was a series of handhelds with LCD screens. They were gaming handhelds AND watches, hence the name Game and Watch. You've been schooled! Anyway, GaWG4 (sheesh) is a collection of good, old GaW games and remakes of them. This sounds simple because it is. But it's undeniably fun to play and a great blast from the past for any retro aficionado. Good luck finding a copy, though.

GS review: 7.0
My review: 8.6

#91: The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (PS2) (2002)

There's a good movie game?! Yes. This one. Two Towers is brilliant from start to finish. The mechanics are incredibly smooth, the gameplay is fast, bloody and exciting, the story is authentic and beautifully paced, the voice acting is by the actors of the films and the graphics are astounding. Almost perfect, really. If you're a fan of LotR, you owe it to yourself to play this game. But like most others here, good luck finding it!

GS review: 8.1

Stay tuned for more soon! Thanks for reading!

-Calvinsora

Hey, it's me again. Just wanted to announce that I finished my review of Indigo Prophecy (Fahrenheit) and it can be found here. Don't read unless you want to ;)

Cheers,

Calvinsora

Well, I just wrote my newest review, this time about the seminal puzzle game Braid. You can find it here. Of course, don't read it unless you want to ;)

Maybe I should start reviewing some of my average games. I've been giving way too many 9.5s lately. I don't think it's because I'm too lax, I've just been playing some fantastic games :P

I'm back! I'm trying to get out of the hundreds, so I'm rapid-firing through the lower spots. But be sure to check the older posts if you haven't already! Alright, here we go!

#110: Street Fighter IV (PS3) (2009)

Way to go; Capcom! Back to the basics. Well, many developers should learn from this (Crash and Spyro, I'm looking at you). Super smooth gameplay, wonderful graphics, awesome music, deep combat and varied characters. Only problem is that the anime cutscenes...aren't very good. And Seth is a cheater, cheater pumpkin-eater. But everything else is so AWESOME! SO AWESOME!

GS review: 9.0
My review: 8.7

#109: Hotel Dusk: Room 215 (DS) (2007)

This game just oozes cool. The noir styIe thriller is both intriguing, genius and...cool! The cool characters, the cool puzzles, the cool mechanics, the cool story. It's all...cool. COOL! But seriously, HD is a fantastic mystery game for the DS, and is still one of its most styIish entries. And it's cool.

GS review: 8.2

#108: Donkey Kong (ARC) (1981)

Of course, Donkey Kong is here! Or more appropriately, Cranky Kong in his younger days. And Jumpman, later named Mario because what hero would catch on with the name Jumpman? Exactly, nobody. One of the earliest platformers, it doesn't always get enough credit. It's surprisingly varied considering it's about 10-15 minutes in length. The first level is about rythm, the second about precision, and the third is a big puzzle in disguise. Mario dying by falling more than 50 cm sucks, but he still is a master of jumping, and will best Donkey Kong every time. Take that, you big gorilla with a tie!

No GS review for the arcade
NES GS review (VC): 4.6 (compared to the arcade)

#107: Shadow of the Colossus (PS2) (2005)

Big, epic bosses, big, empty landscapes...some awesome, some not-so awesome. But Shadow of the Colossus is a breath of fresh air for gaming, blending adventure and combat with incredible skill. The soundtrack is just beautiful, and the colossi are some of the best boss fights of the last generation. Sure, thecontrols are difficult to use at times, sure, the camera isn't perfect, sure, the horse-riding sections can't compare to the battles. But when the entire package is this good, you can't really complain, can you?

GS review: 8.7
My review: 8.6

#106: Wario Land 4 (GBA) (2001)

Wario, Mario's twisted, demented...something, never get's enough press. His games are awesome, and are an example of quality platforming, most often on dear handhelds. Thank you, Wario, thank you. WL4 is darker than most, and some of the bosses are down-right creepy (a spoiled rotten eggplant? a floating balloon-bear?), but each can be conquered in interesting ways. Add to that some clever level design and smart new mechanics, and you've got a sure-fire winner.

GS review: 8.7

#105: Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow (DS) (2005)

More CV! Dawn of Sorrow is the first DS CV, and is an absolutely fantastic game. Great atmosphere, scary, disturbing enemies, smooth, fast gameplay and the normal, lovably cheesy story. The soul system from Aria of Sorrow makes a triumphant return, and is as good as ever. DoS is an incredibly solid, great game that will surely remind you why you like Castlevania. It's superb.

GS review: 8.9

#104: Chrono Trigger (DS) (2008 )

Sure, it's the DS version, but it's basically the same game due to the care SE have put into remaking the game. And boy, is it fun. The battle system is terrific (though slightly repetitive), the story's great, time travel is genuinely fun and the characters are all spectacularly written. Maybe the only flaw is the confusing design in terms of how to progress in the game, but it's so small that it really doesn't matter. Now that it's on the DS, you have no excuse: get it.

GS review: 8.5

#103: Dragon Quest: Rocket Slimes (DS) (2006)

Wow, I'm simply addicted to this game. I've finished it three times, and it's still ridiculously fun to play. The tank battles are smart and varied, the regular gameplay is simple and fun, and the story is filled with whimsical DQ humor. And a lot of slime puns. A lot of them. And they are all awesome.

GS review: 7.8

#102: Super Paper Mario (Wii) (2007)

Taking the Paper Mario series into a new genre completely is a risky move. Luckily, it paid off, delivering a fantastic game that has all the charm and wit of Paper Mario, with the €lassic Mario gameplay added to the formula. The game is quite easy, but everything else is a great blend of old and new, and makes SPM a truly great addition to the Wii library.

GS review: 8.8
My review: 9.2

#101: Donkey Konga (GC) (2004)

Bongas? As peripherals? What mad man thought of that? A mad GENIUS, that's who! The bongos are responsive and genuinely fun to play on. They're maddeningly loud, though. Sound proof walls are barely enough. But the awesome song list (to me, at least), great presentation and fantastic peripherals are ace. Too bad it didn't really take off...

GS review: 7.5

Yay, almost done with the 100s. Stay tuned for more entries! Thanks for reading!

-Calvinsora

Well, I feel so much time passed last time thatI shouldn't wait too much until the next entry. I also look forward to getting higher on the list, it's more fun :D But I won't stall. Just remember, don't be too shocked about #115, there's a reason...at least to me. Leeet's GOO!

#120: Mega Man Battle Network 5: Double Team (DS) (2005)

One Battle Network game is good enough, but two? On the DS? Awesome! This is the best BN game I've played so far, and it offers a ridiculous amount of variety. More navis than you can shake a stick at, clever battles and great story blend to create an entertaining and unforgettable experience. Recommended!

GS review: 7.5

#119: Nintendogs (DS) (2005)

Nintendogs is often said to be the first game to fully utilize the DS's hardware...and that's true. Using the mic and touch screen impeccably, has some of the most charming gameplay ever, it brings the joy of owning a dog right to the DS. It's cute, it's fun and it's an amazing piece of work. For doing all that, and still stay a game for serious gamers as well, along with boosting the DS sales exponentially, Nintendogs deserves the 119 spot.

GS review: 9.1

#118: Broken Sword: Shadow of the Templars (GBA) (2002)

The PC version is most likely the best one, but I played it on the GBA, so here you go. Broken Sword is an oft forgotten game that is truly amazing in every way. The intriguing story, wonderful atmosphere, ingenious puzzles and entertaining characters make the experience a truly great one. The dialogue is genius, and the often quick decisions you'll have to make are implemented with much panache. BS is the thinking man's game, and is utterly brilliant.

GS review: 7.0

#117: Sonic Advance (GBA) (2002)

Oh, Sonic, what have you done? Why must you not be so awesome today? But I'm optimistic on Project Needlemouse. Sonic Advance is a fantastic entry in the Sonic franchise, and is a truly memorable title. Beautiful graphics, varied gameplay and great bosses go together to make a fantastic Sonic game. More of this, please!

GS review: 7.9

#116: Rayman (PS) (1995)

Remember Rayman? Of course you do...or don't. If you do, you'll know how awesome he is. He is, without a doubt, the best armless, legless hero with feet and hands. Seriously. Rayman is a sweet blend of charming graphics, smooth platforming and innovative gameplay. The music is awesome as well, and forgetting the bosses isn't something you'll do anytime soon. A mad tuba? Crazy!

No GS review available

#115: Half-Life 2 (PS3) (2007)

Oh boy, here we go.Look, I played the game on The Orange Box on the PS3, which, according to some sources, has the "worst" version of Half-Life 2. And I'm also willing to admit that the game is better than some of the games above it, but I list the games here in my list depending on how much fun I had when playing the game. When HL2 is great, it's AMAZING (Ravenholm still gives me chills), but it also has its low points, which were more a challenge in persistence. However, HL2 is perfect proof that FPSs can have a deep story, fresh gameplay and a colorful cast. Something not many games sport today. Remember, a low spot is not a bad spot.

GS review (Orange Box): 9,0

#114: Eternal Sonata (PS3) (2008 )

By far one of the most beautiful games of all time. It is an aesthetical feast. But that isn't the only thing good in it. The gameplay is fun and innovative, the story is charming and the characters are genuinely likable. It may falter later on due to some monotonous elements, but... I hate to admit it, but I'm just way too impressed by the graphics and music to care. I've never really felt that way before. It's amazing.

GS review: 8.5
My review: 8.5

#113: Kirby: Canvas Curse (DS) (2005)

One of Kirby's best games, and it isn't even a typical Kirby game. Weird. Canvas Curse is an incredible showcase of what the DS can do, blending smart gameplay, amazing music and charming graphics, Canvas Curse is an amazing adventure that demands skill, patience and endurance, and it's definitely worth it.

GS review: 8.6

#112: Yoshi Topsy-Turvy (GBA) (2005)

Yoshi! The cutest dinosaur around tries something truly new in T-T, and succeeds. Using a special motion detecting device in the cartridge, you could tilt your GBA/DS (it supported DS use as well) to the left...and the world in the game went left. Turn it to the right...and the world went right. This, of course, gives way for many, many varieties of puzzles and gameplay opportunities. Sure, it's quite short, but it's a great game that really stretches what the GBA could do. Unfortunately, it came out at the same time as the DS came out, so it sold...well, not that much. But if you find the game, get it! NOW!

GS review: 6.6

#111: Luigi's Mansion (GC) (2001)

Ah, poor Luigi. He is completely in his brother's shadow. But his first real outing is still a triumph. The ghosts are ingenious, the gameplay is fun, the collecting is addictive and the music is terrific. There's really nothing left to say. It's short and simple, but makes up for it in humor, wit and ingenuity. Well done, Luigi, well done

GS review: 7.9
My review: 8.3

Well, there goes one of my most controversial placements on my list. Hope you enjoyed ;) Thanks so much for reading! :D

-Calvinsora

I'm....back! I'm so sorry that this dragged on for so long, but don't worry. The "wait" is now over. Now, a few announcements first: GRU members, the first bracket in the GRU GotY will come either tomorrow or on Wednesday. I decided to wait a bit so more people would be in their daily routine again, meaning more people will visit the board and vote. I haven't forgotten, it will be EPIC. Second, I would like to reiterate that a low place is not a bad place, and somtimes, there are reasons for my placing there. This is mostly directed to #115 (not in this blog), which will raise some eyebrows. Okay, no more delays, here we go!

#130: Mario Bros. (NES/ARC) (1983)

Well, to be exact, the remakes are the better versions, and it's them that I'm technically talking about. However, the NES and arcade versions started it all. Being the first game to star both Mario and Luigi. The concept is simple: flip enemies by bumping the platform the enemies are on. Then, you walk over to kick them off the stage. But things get tougher fast. You soon meet crabs, flies, fireballs and freezies, which will all attempt to take you down. It gets even more frantic every level, and it really manages to hook you in. Getting the NES version is good for the nostalgia, but I recommend you to get one of the GBA ports of SMW, SMB2 or SMB3. There, you will find the brilliant remake. Something else worth mentioning is that, along with Donkey Kong, it's the one of the first platformers made.

No review of the remakes
VC NES Mario Bros. review: 4.9 (compared to the arcade)

#129: Dead Space Extraction (Wii) (2009)

Wow! Who would've expected an on-rails Dead Space game on Wii would be this much fun? I didn't, but that's also why I was so pleasantly surprised. It's not scary in the least, but it's tense, fast and exciting, and has a distinct arcade feel to it. The visual representation is brilliant, the controls are simple once learned and the story is great as can be expected. It's an incredibly solid game, and offers a lot of replay value thanks to the mission-like system. But now I just want Dead Space 2, yeah?

GS review: 8.0
My review: 8.7

#128: Super Princess Peach (DS) (2006)

Yes, I liked this game. Not only that, I loved it. It's RIDICULOUSLY easy, but it's incredibly fun, and aspires to the collector mentality. In a brilliant twist of fate, Mario is the one in trouble, and it's Peach's job to save him. With the help of a magic umbrella and magical powers, Peach must fight the baddies and end this madness! Using emotional powers, like crying to water plants and burning up from anger to burn bridges, she will overcome a number of actually clever levels and enemies. You won't ever die, but for those that want just pure platforming fun, this is the game for you. Unless you hate pink.

GS review: 7.2

#127: Yobi's Basic Spelling Tricks (PC) (1993)

What's the first thing you think when you read the name? Cheap edutainment game? Boring game about spelling? WRONG! I think this is the most meticulous attempt to disguise a fantastic game. First, here's a video clip of a few levels: here. See how awesome that is. The basic gist of the game is to get letters in a specific order to spell out common words. However, dart-spitting trees, mud, tornados, evil flames, lions, hippos, gazelles, elephants, crocs and loads of other enemies will stand in your way. What to do? For instance, feeding a hippo an apple will make you be able to ride him over currents. You can lure a zebra from a gap by feeding him. There are so many different puzzles, and there is pretty much no flaw I can find here, except the fact that you'll be spelling words after every level. Even that's not boring. And getting the elusive sugar boys (that's what I call them, small little statues) are incredibly difficult to get. Good luck finding a copy, though. This is, understandably, a really rare game, and even if you find it, you'll need a Windows '95 to run it. Your only chance is to download it. I don't know if it's abandonware, but if you get a chance to get it, do it. You won't regret it.

No GS review available

#126: Soul Calibur IV (PS3) (2008 )

This legendary series' first outing on the next-gen consoles is also a great one. A large roster of rocking characters, an incredibly varied character customization tool and a lot of different missions are just some of the pluses in the game. Add to that the incredibly deep combat and you've got a truly great fighter. The story is pretty bare, but that's not really what it's all about in a fighter is it? Just enjoy the ride, and it's certainly a great one.

GS review: 8.5

#125: Jumpstart Adventures 3rd Grade (PC) (1996)

They just don't make edutainment games that are good these days. Seriously, they've just started churning out the most repetitive and boring games ever imaginable, thinking they're educating AND fun. They're not even that educating. 1+1*3=? How terribly difficult :roll: JA3G is how they're supposed to be made. Putting emphasis on maths, music comprehension, famous art, astronomy, strategy, geology, botanology, history and drawing, the game is a complete package. And don't go thinking it's just straight out boring activities. They're put, not only in a child-friendly, but also entertaining way. You won't get bored, and the game can last in excess of 30 hours. That's an achievement.

No GS review available

#124: Uncharted: Drake's Fortune(PS3) (2007)

11 years later, and we get this gem of a game. Heavily inspired by the Tomb Raider series, it polishes the game mechanics and puts it into the next generation. The Hollywood story, charming and realistic characters, great platforming and amazing visuals blend to create a picturesque experience on the PS3, and it's a worthy predecessor of the gargantuan behemoth that is Uncharted 2. It feels old in comparison, but it's a great game regardless.

GS review: 8.0

#123: Wii Sports (Wii) (2006)

Wii Sports wasn't just any other game on the Wii, it WAS the Wii. Packaged with most consoles, Wii Sports showcased the console's capabilities. Some say that when the novelty's gone, that's it. They're missing the point! We've completely underestimated what the Wii is and what it has done. It's motion control that works perfectly! Back in the day, that sounded like something that would crop up the year 2200. You'd think there would be catch, that something would be imprecise or glitchy. NO! It worked perfectly. Bowling is like it should be, baseball feels right, golf works wonders etc, etc. Let's not underestimate what Wii Sports has done to the industry. It has changed it forever.

GS review: 7.8

#122: Castlevania: Harmony of Dissonance (GBA) (2002)

What a legendary series, Castlevania. It's been around for a long time, and sports some amazing titles. HoD is a Metroidvania game, but it shares certain aspects with the CV games of old. But it's still all about exploration. There's the regular macabre environments, varied bosses and a wonderfully cheesy story, and some incredible smooth gameplay and fantastic music. What more do you want?

GS review: 8.2

#121: Sonic Adventure 2 Battle (GC) (2002)

There's a good 3D Sonic game? Well...yes. SA2B is a good game! A fantastic game! If you get past the camera, you will find a ridiculously varied, big game with awesome music, a cool story (when Shadow wasn't a shallow afterthought) and great gameplay. I liked the treasure levels (yes, I did), the speed levels are pure awesome, and the machine levels...are a bit weak. But the Ciao minigame makes everything alright. It's one of the deepest minigames I've ever seen, personally. And all this together makes SA2B a worthy game on the list.

GS review: 6.8

Well, there we have it. The next entry will come soon, I promise :D Thanks for reading! Ciao.

-Calvinsora

There's always a lingering feeling of self-loathing when you haven't finished a great game. You feel like you just spent money on a quality title for absolutely nothing. I've personally tried my best to play and finish all games I've bought, and maybe compared to how many games I have, I've done a pretty good job. But there are always THOSE games. You can't feel accomplished until you finish them. Finish them all. Even when you play one of them, you feel like you should be playing another, and the horrible cycle keeps on going. These are the games I've yet to finish. I've put them in my consoles, but finishing them is a dream I wish to fulfill in the next few months. Wish me luck.

Demon's Souls (PS3)

-Houston, we have a problem.

Hey! Don't look at me like that! The game's hard! What can I say, I love Demon's Souls as much as I fear it. It's more that I've had so many other games to play, but trudging through the game is a rewarding, slow push to the finish line...which is kilometers away. You need breaks, or you will completely fall into depression. I will finish it, though, you wait and see!

Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (N64, VC)

-Something is wrong with this picture. I can't completely see what...

Yes, I've bought OoT on the VC, and yes, it is awesome. As of right now, I still like Majora's Mask a bit more, but only time will tell how the contest will end. This is the game I'm currently playing, and "late to the party" simply doesn't describe my incredible lateness (not a real word, I know). You must be excited to see my verdict in the future, right? Right? Where are you going? Wait!

Disgaea 3 (PS3)

-WHHHHHHHHHHHHHHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!

This game is cray-zay! And that's also why I love it. But it's also the most complex game I've ever played. I think only a supercomputer can actually harness the true ability to play the game to its fullest. If you have six hours to spare, consider playing Disgaea 3 and levelling up to the thousands.

Ghostbusters: The Video Game (PS3)

-Let's do this thang!

Darn save system. The otherwise great game is almost destroyed by what is the worst save system I've seen this generation. I've put about 8 hours into the game in total, but of course, the game has deleted itself twice because of a ridiculously complex save system. Some day, I'll finish the game, but that some day might have to wait. *sigh*

Ico (PS2)

-Yorda suddenly had an urge to push Ico into the pristine waters. Havoc ensues.

I'm not a fan of liking a game because it's supposed to be art. SotC's horse-riding sections were, well, boring, but the colossi fights were unlike any I've ever seen. That is what ultimately boosted the game. Empty, beautiful environments are beautiful for an hour or so, but like a painting, staring at it for hours isn't exactly fun. However, the incredible detail and emphasis on atmosphere is intriguing, and I feel I haven't given the game a fair chance. Maybe I'll like it more if I continue to play it.

Final Fantasy VII (PSOne)

-The size of the sword reflects the size of the ego, yes?

Another cla$$ic I've yet to play more of. The game is downloaded on my "other" PS3, which is situated in the family TV room. Needless to say, I don't have many chances to actually play anything on it. However, I'm determined to finish the game, and it's a truly amazing game.

Eternal Darkness: Sanity's Requiem (GC)

-Um...hello?

After many months of searching, I finally found the game used in a retail! I was so happy. Of what I've played, the game is simply terrifying, but the combat is some of the most difficult-to-use combat I've seen in a game. Maybe I'm missing something...

Viewtiful Joe 2 (GC)

-Aaaahhh! Too much color!

VJ2 is a very peculiar game. It's quite difficult, it's flashy, fast and furious. It's basically everything I like. Why haven't I played more? I guess only the gaming gods know that for sure.

Mirror's Edge (PS3)

-The game is not for the acrophobic, as you can see here.

Ahh, Mirror's Edge. This is a beautiful, exciting, innovative game, but at the same time, its combat is horrible, save points are ridiculously placed and its a game of much trial-and-error. So I'm on the fence on this one. I have to finish it, though. It's not a bad game. :?

Far Cry 2 (PS3)

-It was a quiet day in the wild...

It's simply a crying shame that I haven't managed to absorb myself in Far Cry 2's atmosphere. Its world is huge, colorful and incredibly well made, but the combat sections are so tough that I wonder whether it's all worth it. Maybe I just need to play more...

Valkyria Chronicles (PS3)

-War has never been so blue.

This beautiful gem of a game hasn't recieved its due popularity, which is sad. The even sadder thing is that I haven't had the patience to play more of it. I really want to play more, but it takes the patience of an elephant to get anywhere in the game. Are elephants patient?

Resident Evil 5 (PS3)

-The inhabitants invite him to a friendly game of tag...

Resident Evil 5 is...c'mon it's a disappointment on a whole other level! After playing the stellar RE4, I was ready to be wowed by the next installment. I was not. It's beautiful, tense and fast-paced, but a kitten is acutally more scary then this game! Maybe the kitty in my avatar...

Super Mario RPG (SNES, VC)

-Grim Reaper becomes Greaper. Get it?

Mario + Square = uncontrollable awesomeness. I love the Paper Mario series (one of my favorite series of all time), and seeing as this is its humble beginnings, I know I won't be disappointed. Just have to get to playing it.

Then there are all the games I'm close to beating. Those are Mario and Luigi: BIS, Professor Layton and the DB, Katamari Forever and The Bouncer (it's about an hour long. I haven't started playing it, but I'm closer to beating it than any other game I own). So you see that I have a lot of "work" ahead of me. Or, to be more exact, a lot of confusion and enjoyment. With all the games coming out this year, will I even be able to finish them all this year? We'll just have to wait and see. Thanks for reading, my friends, and have a great day/night!

-Calvinsora

Hey, fellow Gamespot members. Just wanted to announce that I've written my review of Assassin's Creed II, and it can be found here. If you find yourself in doubt whether or not to buy the game, maybe reading my review might just give you some ideas of the overall game. Don't read it unless you want to ;) Au revoir for now,

Jón (Cal)

If you're wondering what the overly enthusiastic name of the blog is to signify, it's the fact that I just got my first Platinum trophy, which I got for acing Assassin's Creed II. This, of course, also means I'll be reviewing the game in the next few days, so stay tuned for my final impressions of the game.

Other stuff, be sure to check out my last blog, filled to the brim with awesome music I'll sure you'll love (at least some of it). I'll also be continuing to blog more, writing Editorial-like blogs, continuing with my long overdue Great Movies of Our Time blog, FINALLY continuing with my Top 150 games list and just blogging about more music and awesome stuff you can find in this hobby we share.

Finally, if you are a member of Gamespot's Reviewers Union (why aren't you?), about 24 hours from now, I'll be closing the nomination thread for the GRU GotY awards (I've telegrammed you as well, haha) tobe found on the Union Forum. Be sure to post there if you haven't already. Or there will be consequences!!

Anyway, hope you are doing good. Salut, my fellow GS members,

Jón (Calvinsora)

So, so sorry for the delay. Anyway, I deleted half of this blog accidentally a few moments ago, so I'll have to be shorter this time, and there won't be as many pictures. I'll just let the music talk. I'm so sorry. Just know: I'll be blogging more from now on. Anyway, this is a huge music bonanza, as the title suggests, and I'll be posting both a lot of loved music and some unknown music as well. OK, let's go.

Pleather for Breakfast (No More Heroes)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9TX9o6uZnEs

Whoa, nelly?! This is disturbing, creepy, disgusting, filthy, unintelligible and utterly awesome. I wanted No More Heroes before, but now I want it like crazy. It accentuates how dark and twisted Bad Girl (probably) is, and is just downright dirty. I just love it so much.

Demon's Souls (Demon's Souls)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGo5UWO_HLA&feature=related

Also known as the Demon's Souls opening, but the OST (which I own, yay) calls it just Demon's Souls. The song epitomizes the entire Demon's Souls experience. It's raw, merciless, dramatic and terrifying. It sets you in the mood, and forebodes an amazing adventure from start to end.

Roar of the Departed Souls (Lost Odyssey)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DbeGTgt0RWQ

My, my! Are you hearing this?! I expected no less from the legend Nobuo Uematsu, but wow! It keeps changing endlessly, and always leaves you surprised. It's just...incredible on every level. This will be the first game I'll get when (and if) I ever get a 360.

Drawcia Sorceress and DrawciaSoul (Kirby: Canvas Curse)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AgCzdX9Gjso

One of the best Kirby games with some of the best music. That is Canvas Curse, but the final boss themes, of which are two, are just amazing. Drawcia Sorceress (the first song) is incredibly mysterious and beautiful, while Drawcia Soul is twisted and frantic. Both are amazing.

Stickerbrush Symphony (Donkey Kong Country 2)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CaMcOo-k23U

Calming, beautiful and one of the best VGMs ever. This is prozacin video game music. It soothes the soul and calms you down, making you tackle Bramble Blast in peace. Just listen to it...and relax.

Simple and Clean (Kingdom Hearts)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UkS4AVfIxyo&feature=related

Vocalized VGMs are quite rare in comparison to those with no vocals. That is why S&C, performed by Utada Hikaru, is such a masterpiece. Wonderful singing, incredible blend of instruments and a fantastic melody make it a truly memorable piece of musical genius.

Aquatic Ambience (Donkey Kong Country)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D65TT5Ieb4M

Like Stickerbrush Symphony, but more watery. Literally. It's ALSO calming, ALSO soothing and ALSO genius. Nothing more needs to be said. Click on the link and enjoy.

Imbroglio (Shadow Hearts)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKiBfdvdnOQ

If VGMs use bells, they have to be very careful. It can come out as cheesy, loud or just unnecessary. Imbroglio, the final boss theme in the much loved Shadow Hearts series, uses them perfectly, creating a steady beat of pure awesomeness. It's completely unique and is simply amazing. I want this game so bad now.

One-Winged Angel (Final Fantasy VII)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t7wJ8pE2qKU

Are you surprised this is here? Really? Didn't think so. The oh-so debated masterpiece which is called One-Winged Angel is an exemplary piece of final boss music. It's long, epic and utterly engrossing. And in Latin, let's not forget that. This is one of my favorite themes of all time, and the favorite of thousands of others. It also describes Sephiroth perfectly, seeing as he sees himself as Alpha and Omega, after all.

Dancing Mad (Final Fantasy VI)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ios6zLDR8AI(PART 1)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-MRGt_PvyT8(PART 2)

To show how truly epic Dancing Mad is, it's in two parts and over 14 minutes long. Incredibly varied, beautifully composed and manages to capture the madness that is Kefka. I haven't actually played the game, so it has to be even better while fighting the deity Kefka becomes.

Battle for Everyone's Souls (Persona 3)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdMhTL5bZrs

Shin Megami Tensei games have rocking music, but this is just ridiculously cool. Heavy guitar, added opera tones and just an incredible balance of length and variety. Like with some other songs, I just can't say more. Listen!

Pursuing My True Self (Persona 4)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nn0P7UTiLdc

The opening song in Persona 4, this is the song that made me realize Persona 4 was a game unlike any other...and that was just the opening theme! An incredibly catchy beat, flashy pictures and artwork accompanying the opening and some awesome rap make this tune one of Persona 4's best.

Monty on the Run (Monty on the Run)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpsN14TFy90

I don't know why I haven't put this up yet. This theme is quite simply one of the best I've ever heard. It's six minutes long, and is always changing. The guitar like solos blow my mind each and every time I hear it, and it's maddeningly frantic. It fits perfectly for a chase-like motif. In one word, awesome! And on the Commodore 64!

Phendrana Drifts (Metroid Prime)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZbbUv1hz6mE

Cold...lonely...hostile. Those are the words that come first to mind when you hear the song. It's wonderfully ambiant and haunting, and fits Phendrana Drifts perfectly. The white snow, blue rocks...everything so beautiful and at the same time slightly scary.

Liberi Fatali (Final Fantasy VIII)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_eSrBMsIw3s

Playing in the opening cinematic, Liberi Fatali is best listened to while watching the cinematic itself. Every note is emphasized in tune with the action. Latin in music is also always a huge plus. It's just so pointlessly cool.

Demise of the Ritual and Those Who Remain (Shadow of the Colossus)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxZtlk0fdwY(DotR)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I0SsAYEeSj4(TWR)

Two beautiful pieces of music from an aesthetically brilliant game. Demise of the Ritual really makes you feel like you're fighting a humongous monster, feeling truly epic. Those Who Remain is incredibly sad, and fits the ending perfectly. Just amazing music that is impossible to explain.

Still Alive (Portal)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y6ljFaKRTrI

There aren't many songs that manage to blend a fantastic melody with laugh-out-loud humor. Still Alive is one of the few exceptions. This famous credits song from the revolutionary puzzle game Portal is a stroke of genius. A robot singing doesn't sound appealing, but boy, it really is.

You are Dead (Total Distortion)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9pPQnhhUqtU

Like Still Alive, You are Dead is a blend of melody and humor, and is absolutely in-your-face awesome. You've probably never heard it, so just click and enjoy!

Still Alive (Mirror's Edge)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SzmUde_EK5Y

Another song named Still Alive? What a coincidence. Anyway, Mirror's Edge is full of beautiful, ambiant music, but none of it is especially memorable. Except for this. The vocal are to die for, and it just blows your mind away how beautiful this song is. I love it.

Pallet Town (Pokemon Red/Blue)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOWRNLaCMJg

Did you just start crying from nostalgia. This is just an incredible blast of nostalgia that is simply amazing to hear. Every Poke fan knows it (or should know it), and they should all love it. Happy times.

Icecap Zone Act 1 (Sonic 3)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hYxlqTpZ-24

MICHAEL JACKSON WROTE THE MUSIC! 'Nuff said.

Anyway, sorry once again for the lack of pictures, but I hope I gave you a taste of the greatness VGM can offer. Have a nice day y'all.

-Calvinsora