Video Game Reviews by Jeb Haught

DEVELOPER: BioWare

PUBLISHER: EA Games

SYSTEM: Microsoft Xbox 360 (PC)

PRICE: $59.99

ESRB RATING: Mature

REVIEW RATING: 5 stars (out of 5)

With the release of the RPG/shooter hybrid, "Mass Effect," BioWare gained mass approval from fans of both genres, but there were still some complaints. Apparently, the tireless developers were paying attention because "Mass Effect 2" blends deep RPG elements with an improved combat system that is far superior to most shooters.

Saving the universe is hard work! Anyone who played the original knows that stopping the mighty Reapers wasn't easy, and now Commander Shepard must investigate a serious new threat to mankind. When entire human colonies begin vanishing without a trace, Shepard must assemble an advanced team of interstellar combatants to halt the threat.

Players begin their adventure by creating a new character or transferring their Shepard character from "Mass Effect," which is a great feature. Then it's time to choose a class, which determines strengths and weaknesses as well as weapon and power availability. I chose the Infiltrator, which lets me use pistols, submachine guns and sniper rifles. I can also employ a tactical cloak to turn invisible for surprise attacks. One really cool new feature is the ability to train and then use each sidekick's special power after he or she become loyal.

This is the only shooter I know of that offers players genetically enhanced Biotic powers, Tech powers and an effective cover system in the midst of combat. On top of that, it's very easy to control teammates and create awesome combos. I laugh out loud every time I direct a teammate to levitate an enemy, while I blast him with a fireball and my other comrade fills him full of lead!

Space exploration still plays an important role, but players must now scan planets (so boring!) instead of actually surveying them. I might be the only person in the world to miss the Mako land vehicle, but driving it was more enjoyable than scanning planets and shooting probes. Still, there is a potential to discover hidden side missions with the scanner that extend the overall journey.

Add fantastic characters and an intriguing story line to the sci-fi mix, and "Mass Effect 2" becomes a contender for Game of the Year.

Discover your Dark Side in 'Darksiders'

DEVELOPER: Vigil Games

PUBLISHER: THQ

SYSTEM: Sony PlayStation 3 (Xbox 360)

PRICE: $59.99

ESRB RATING: Mature

REVIEW RATING: 4 stars (out of 5)

Most debut titles from new development companies are rather mediocre, but not so with Vigil Games.

Their first release, titled "Darksiders," features satisfying "Devil May Cry"-type combat mixed with an awesome creepy visual style and some of the best voice acting since the "Legacy of Kain" series.

War is hell, and hell has come to earth in the form of War. As the first of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, War is dishonored and stripped of his powers for starting the Apocalypse too early. Now he must regain his former prowess and exact revenge on those who deceived him. Believe me, I wouldn't want to be one of the Angel Legions or Arch-Demons that crosses his path.

"Why not?" you ask. Well, for starters, War's mighty sword, appropriately dubbed the "Chaoseater," is larger than he is, yet War swings it with the greatest of ease. It can be upgraded with various powers ranging from extra damage to additional armor, just like other weapons he accrues, including a gigantic scythe and a devastating chain gun. Combining old and new weapons together paves the way for ultimate combos of destruction!

Gear items provide additional tools to use against the enemy. For example, the Earthcaller horn opens special doors and also knocks back most enemies when used in combat. A monstrous shurikin blade is also available for projectile slicing and dicing. In addition, powerful Wrath abilities, such as summoning demons or blasting enemies with scorching hellfire, also come in handy.

Even more power is gained by mounting War's mighty steed, named Ruin, and attacking adversaries from horseback. Ruin isn't your average cantering bowl of dog food, however, as he runs swiftly and increases War's attack power. Riding a mount is definitely fun, but it would be nice to see some Ruin-specific attacks.

Despite lackluster boss fights and puzzle elements, "Darksiders" is still devilishly fun.

REVIEW SCORING SYSTEM

5 stars = Must Have

4 stars = Very Good

3 stars = Above Average

2 stars = Bargain Bin

1 star = Don't Bother

RATINGS KEY

Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB)

E: (Everyone)

E10-plus: (Everyone 10 and older)

T: Teen (13 and older)

M: Mature (17 and older)

To find out more about Jeb Haught and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

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