Sports

Game Description: The active-play phenomenon started by Wii Sports now spreads to your whole body thanks to Wii Fit and the pressure-sensitive Wii Balance Board, which comes bundled with it. Used together players will experience an extensive array of fun, dynamic and surprisingly challenging activities, including aerobics, yoga, muscle stretches and balance oriented games. The focus of these activities is towards providing a "core" workout, a popular exercise method that emphasizes slower, controlled motions, but it's the fun approach to fitness of Wii Fit that will keep players hooked on fitness for years to come.

I've played a lot of Madden over the years (and had experience with the other major series before EA got the NFL exclusivity rights), but I'm not one of those guys who plays each year's release. In fact, looking over my Madden collection is sort of like looking at the fossil record of videogame history—I tend to only buy a new Madden release whenever a new console launches, then I don't buy it again until the next generation begins.

Game Description: Why just watch NFL football on TV when you can take an active role in the game with Madden NFL 08 by Electronic Arts? Madden NFL 08 lets you control the running game like never before. Step up as the lead blocker to create a hole, then take control of the tailback and smash through, overpower, or slash away from would-be tacklers as you fight for every yard. Innovative rushing controls give you a game-breaking ground attack featuring all-new jukes, cutbacks, and the distinct running styles of your favorite backs. Between the tackles or in the open field, run to daylight with Madden NFL 08.

NASCAR 08 allows players to live the experience of driving around in a circle over and over again for up to three hours at a time. I hope it doesn't sound like I'm being glib, because that's a literal description of the sport being simulated.

Game Description: In NASCAR 08, you'll take the wheel and drive your way to the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series championship in the most realistic NASCAR racing game yet. As the new rookie driver on the circuit, develop your racing skills to gain licenses and contracts from hungry owners and unlock legendary top performing cars from NASCAR's biggest stars. Gain new experiences during every race then modify your car's handling with over 40 tuning options to truly master every track. Share your setups with NASCAR's gaming community, then challenge the field in live races with up to 16 players online. Experience tomorrow's racing today in NASCAR 08.

I think it would do most developers well to remember that every videogame is someone's first videogame. NHL 08 is the most egregious example I've seen of this problem in a long while. It's a wonderful hockey simulator that, through its total unwillingness to instruct me on how to play, proved far more frustrating than I'm sure the developers had hoped.

According to ESRB, this game contains: Mild Violence

Game Description: With new features EA-Sports NHL 08 is your virtual world into hockey—almost as real as the game itself. But you're no longer a spectator. You're inside. Whether you're managing or playing, you're choices reap benefits and consequences. Who'll be the winners or losers in NHL 08? It's up to you. With virtually real images, action, and visuals and new gameplay features, move up to the top with NHL 08! Take on the hardest job in sports and seize control of your goaltender with a new 3rd person camera. Stack the pads, butterfly and make glove saves with your entire team depending on you From player likeness, to the signature jersey tucks and sock preferences—each athlete is rendered with a meticulous attention to detail to create a truly authentic on-ice experience.