Brian Mazique
If you have been a fan of the Dirt series prior to this release, you'll be happy with this game. If you're new to the series but have played other racing games, you'll likely find some things you like and others you don't. However, it's hard to imagine any gamer with a taste for racing titles finding major fault with Dirt 4.
The gameplay and options are on an elite level in TGC 2, but the graphics and presentation are still a step behind.
This is a really good football game that you will probably enjoy, but you will also likely still have some gripes. Madden 18 takes noticeable steps in gameplay and depth, but it's still teasing us with true greatness.
It may not get all the hoopla that more popular titles in the genre receive, but F1 2017 is one of the most complete sports video games released in awhile.
NHL 18 is another strong entry from an underrated sports gaming franchise. EA has delivered a more rewarding franchise mode, added new ways to play, while at the minimum, sustaining itself in other modes. That's a formula for success, but the lack of progress in customization, single-player modes and presentation keep it from being a monumental step for the franchise.
There are some promising base features in place from a gameplay, conceptual and presentation standpoint, but it's still not where it needs to be.
Were this review based purely on gameplay, the score would be much higher. As a complete package, PES 2018 is good, but still incomplete.
From a pure fun factor, NASCAR Heat 2 delivers. Driving is a blast, even though it's not all that realistic. Some will embrace the more arcade feel and others will scoff at the more simplistic racing concepts. However, no one should dismiss the depth that has been added to the modes and the massive leap the franchise has taken in just one year. The future could be bright for this series.
Just like LeBron James, NBA 2K18 isn't perfect, but with its ambitious new additions, refined gameplay, and a truckload of options, there's no question, it's still the best in the world.
By accentuating its prior positives and offering real and tangible improvements to gameplay, FIFA 18 excels and is slightly better than last year's solid entry.
Despite some light areas of concern with gameplay and some of the auxiliary modes and features, the core of the WWE 2K franchise has been strengthened. It won't scratch every itch that virtual wrestling fans have, but the game is deep and fun. At the end of the day, that's what we're looking for in video games.
GTS lacks overall depth, but it is saved from being a complete failure by its stellar visuals, fun and realistic driving experience.
Predominantly a game that is trying to do too many things at once. Unfortunately, it fails to stand out in any one area.
With a focus on depth and functionality, the EA UFC 3 development team has created the strongest version in their series. A few minor missteps and the reluctance to embrace or include a true-sim component keeps it from GOAT status. However, there's no question it's a titleholder.
There are a few desirable features missing when you compare The Show 18 to other sports video game titles, but if we were to judge the features and core gameplay that are present, the latest entry to the series maintains its impressive hitting streak.
This is simply not a very good baseball game and the higher price point makes it even easier to accept this year. The improved graphics don't do enough to save this from another sub-standard effort.
The gameplay isn't horrible, but it's also not spectacular. The visuals are solid, but not groundbreaking. The customization is stellar, but that's still not enough to save this game from mediocrity.
While it's not a full-fledged AAA title, SMB 2 blurs the lines with its fantastic gameplay and mode depth. MLB The Show fans aren't likely to put their game down to play SMB 2, but it could be a fun alternative. XB1 fans don't have access to The Show, so without a doubt, SMB 2 is easily the best baseball game available on that console.
This year, Madden doesn't break any new ground or fix all or most of the nagging issues that have impeded the series in the past. However, it does deliver an absolutely stunning visual experience, decent gameplay and enough options to keep most fans occupied.
F1 2018 isn't without flaw or area of opportunity, but the engine that powers its positives revs much louder than the noise made by its few skid marks. This is truly one of the best racing games you'll ever play.