Video Game Reviews by Jeb Haught

DEVELOPER: Ntreev

PUBLISHER: TOMY

SYSTEM: Sony PSP

PRICE: $29.99

ESRB RATING: E10+

REVIEW RATING: 4 stars (out of 5)

When it comes to hitting the cyber-links, gamers usually have to choose from two extremes. On one hand there are difficult golf simulators, like the "Tiger Woods" series, and on the other hand are ultra-surrealistic adaptations such as "Super Mario Golf." For those of us that want something in between, TOMY delivers the anime-inspired sports title "Pangya: Fantasy Golf."

This unusual title is the only golf game I've heard of that has a storyline. Basically, players are magically whisked away to the beautiful island of Pangya where everyone lives out their uttermost fantasies. However, there's no pint-sized sidekicks or dashing hosts sporting rich Corinthian leather suntans in this tropical paradise. Instead, visitors get to pay homage to past heroes by playing round after round of golf.

Just like the "Hot Shots Golf" series, this title uses the old-school meter system where players tap the X button once to start the swing, tap it again to set the distance, and then tap it one more time to set the accuracy. This is my preferred method of playing cyber-golf when a game isn't on the Wii, as I think it offers better control of the ball. Too bad the standard grid system isn't used to show the rise and fall of each green, which can make putting tricky to judge.

Adding to the fun game play is the ability to purchase balls, clubs, and rings that enhance certain statistics such as hitting power or accuracy. Mixing and matching gear can dramatically alter a player's shot, so finding the right sweet spot is part of the fun. Players can also customize their character's outfit from a seemingly endless selection of clothing. Further enhancement comes in the form of temporary power-ups, such as Spin Mastery and Silent Wind that can be used during matches.

Whether playing "Pangya: Fantasy Golf" alone or with friends online, the outcome is sure to put a smile on your face.

'The Conduit' Is a Winner on the Wii

DEVELOPER: High Voltage Software

PUBLISHER: SEGA

SYSTEM: Nintendo Wii

PRICE: $49.99

ESRB RATING: Teen

REVIEW RATING: 4 stars (out of 5)

I've been playing a fun First Person Shooter this week that isn't a sequel and isn't a military simulation.

Heck, it isn't even presented in high definition, but it's enjoyable nonetheless. Is your curiosity piqued? Good, because the most surprising fact is that "The Conduit" is a Nintendo Wii exclusive.

Not since "Metroid Prime 3," which was released over 1 1/2 years ago, has there been a top-notch shooter on the Wii that doesn't have a better version on another system. Add in the fact that the Wiimote controller doubles as a light gun and the result is a very intuitive method for blasting enemies. I also admire the fact that the developers have included in-depth customization options for nearly every aspect of the controller, such as altering the aiming sensitivity or the "dead zone."

Speaking of which, both human and alien adversaries don't stand a chance against the lethal weaponry found in this title. In addition to standard pistols, shotguns, and assault rifles, players also get to experiment with exotic alien weapons like the Hive Cannon as well as Trust gear that includes the Deatomizer Mk4. A handy lock-on feature displays each enemy's health and also shows their location. Fortunately, it doesn't magically send bullets in their direction. My least favorite armament, however, is the melee attack, which tends to be more disorienting than useful.

Using the ASE, or All-Seeing-Eye, globe is a cool sci-fi diversion that reveals items that are "out of phase" with the normal 3D world. This valuable device reveals hidden bio-locks, mines and enemies and also gives players access to hidden caches of weapons. Experimenting with this futuristic item is a fun diversion to the run-and-gun game play.

Sporting excellent visuals, compelling game play and intense online multiplayer matches, "The Conduit" is just what the Wii needs to satisfy both core and casual gamers.

REVIEW SCORING SYSTEM

5 stars = Must Have

4 stars = Pretty 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.

COPYRIGHT 2009 CREATORS SYNDICATE INC.