While the Wii may sell more, and Playstation 3 has a decent reputation, there is no denying that the Xbox 360 offers serious gamers the most options, including a great game selection. The real attraction, however, is Xbox Live, which offers a number of online options. With online play for a number of games (everyone should play Gears of War online at least once), downloadable movies and TV shows via Netflix, and the Live Arcade, the Xbox Marketplace offers something for everyone.
The Live Arcade allows users to purchase and download games of all genres and eras, from new games to releases of vintage 80’s arcade hits. Here are the best Live Arcade games released in 2008, in no particular order.
VIGILANTE 8: ARCADE
Rated: T (Teen)
Cost: 800 Xbox points
Vehicular warfare at its best. A totally new version of the classic game made just for Xbox Live, you can ride in a 1970’s style roadster that’s been souped-up for combat. With a little of Grand Theft Auto and The Road Warrior thrown in, it’s T-rated fun that is worth blowing a few hours on.
BRAIN CHALLENGE
Rated: E (Everyone)
Cost: 800 Xbox points
What makes Brain Challenge so much fun is not just the playability (although that is very good), but the challenge of trying to not look like a total idiot while playing this game. It’s especially good for parties or to try out on friends, who tend to score poorly their first time. Twenty different games in five categories will actually train your brain to be quicker and more responsive, and the game holds up to repeat playings.
SUPER STREET FIGHTER II TURBO HD REMIX
Rated: T (Teen)
Cost: 1200 Xbox points
The classic fighting game Street Fighter II is still better than many of the new games being released today, but the original’s graphics and sound needed an update to match up to today’s technology. Capcom takes care of that, and the result is one of the best games you’ll play this year, period.
All of the old favorites are back, including Ken, Ryu, and Chun Li, in the same cartoon anime style, but redone in high definition 3D. It’s a very cool look that retains the original feel. The characters move much smoother and the gameplay is great, retaining many of the original “moves” you can’t forget. The sound is also a bit updated, and it will give your speakers a workout.
TRON
Rating: E (Everyone)
Cost: 400 Xbox points
The 1980’s live again. If you grew up during the Reagan decade, you remember the arcade version of the hit Disney movie. Xbox Live offers the original game, just as you played it in the early 1980’s. This time, however, you won’t have to waste piles of quarters getting your timing right on the light cycles. They, along with the tanks, grid bugs, and the MCP are all here. The controls are still a bit clumsy, but that’s part of the charm. The game is an exclusive you can only get on the Xbox 360. Take that Wii!
FEEDING FRENZY 2: SHIPWRECK SHOWDOWN
Rated: E (Everyone)
Cost: 800 XBox points
The original Feeding Frenzy was deceptively simple, but became an addictive hit. The sequel is more of the same, with some added twists that fans will love, including updated stages and the ability to jump out of the water. There are also “party” games for guests to try out and several mini games. Sixty water-logged levels await you!
