Don't you believe a word of that pap about the PlayStation 2 being outdated. It's not the fastest kid on the block, but its fall games lineup is easily the best of the big three. If you don't own a PlayStation 2, you're missing out on the best, most diverse library of games that's currently available. Sure, it doesn't have fancy-schmancy normal-mapping or blast processing or a plastic handle, but then, Xbox and GameCube don't have exclusive games like Metal Gear Solid 3. That's a tradeoff we'll take any day. So sit back, grab a smoothie, and check out all the awesome software PS2 aficionados have to look forward to in the coming months.



Burnout 3: Takedown
Developer: Criterion Games | Publisher: EA Games
Release Date: September 9

GameSpy gave it a five out of five, and for good reason: is probably the best thing to do with your television since they invented Starship Enterprise models to put on top of it. Like its predecessor, it takes the notion of crashing cars in a cool-looking manner, and somehow incorporates it into an actual game.

This time around, though, the "genius dial" has been turned to 11. The "Crash" mode is now an integral part of the game, and the fact that you're encouraged to run your opponents off the road during "normal" races changes the game drastically. For the better, of course. Burnout 3 is one of our favorites around here, and we suspect you'll feel the same way.

Our Prediction: Quite possibly one of the most beautiful things in creation. We simply can't put it down. (Read the Review)



Gradius V
Developer: Treasure / KCET | Publisher: Konami
Release Date: September 14

Trends may come and go, but shooting games are eternal. Gradius V is far from the first game to feature a lone spaceship versus impossible odds, but it's one of the prettiest and most exciting such games in a long time.

In fact, Gradius V is one of the best classic franchise revamps we've ever seen. It still retains the trademark Gradius gameplay -- shooting baddies, collecting power capsules, dodging bullets -- but actually takes the action to more ridiculous extremes than any previous Gradius, all with superb new graphics. And while Gradius V is tough, it's still imminently playable by people of most skill levels. The developers at Treasure and Konami pulled off an amazing balancing act here.

Our Prediction: This one's actually already out, and we love it. We predict most hardcore action gamers will as well. (Read the Review)



Sly 2: Band of Thieves
Developer: Sucker Punch | Publisher: SCEA
Release Date: September 14

The first Sly Cooper game was only a modest success at retail, and probably deserved better. Now that Sly 2 is upon us, we know this one does.

Sly 2: Band of Thieves expands on the original game's super-smooth action-platforming by introducing more of an adventure element. You're not just Mr. Sly raccoon anymore: you also get to play as the rest of his not-so-motley gang of thieves. Together, they work to pull off an astonishing series of increasingly improbably heists, while exploring cartoon-like worlds straight out of Saturday morning television.

Our Prediction: Sly 2 is a beautiful, fun, well-realized game. We like platformers and cartoons, so we like Sly 2 a lot. It's great for kids, but not just for kids. (Read the Review)



Def Jam: Fight for NY
Developer: EA Canada/Aki Corporation | Publisher: EA Games
Release Date: September 20

Hip-hop music and wrestling a match made in heaven? Who would have thunk it? Well, apparently, the suits at EA are betting on this concept, and from what we've played of this Def Jam Vendetta sequel, they might not be totally off base. With a fighting engine developed by the legendary Aki Corporation (WWF: No Mercy for the N64), and a smorgasbord of "urban" licenses, Def Jam: Fight for NY looks and plays the part.

While it may feel funny to play dress-up with a thug of your own creation, the number of options are available are truly astounding, and the fighting feels very satisfying so far. They just might be on to something, here.

Our Prediction: If the substance-to-style ratio can stay high, then Fight for NY will definitely be a winner. And we ain't mad at that. (Read the Review)



NHL 2005
Developer: EA Canada | Publisher: Electronic Arts
Release Date: September 20

EA's venerable hockey franchise returns for its thirteenth season, and it's looking to take back the throne that it once occupied. Since last year's iteration had people complaining about the frustrating amount of hitting, the developers added some mechanics to open up the ice, allowing the game to flow more smoothly. There are also some new skating animations that let your players glide along the ice after they hit their top speed, making for more precise maneuvering, as well as an enhanced backward skating that's perfect for keeping your man in front of you.

Our Prediction: There might not be an NHL season this year, but there's still plenty of exciting hockey action! (Read the Review)