The latest reviews are in the paper today. Nintendo titles fill two of the three slots, with a Civilization expansion pack - yes, the gaming drought is upon us - getting the other review. Actually Civ 4: Beyond the Sword scores highly and proves there is still some life left in the venerable franchise. Likewise with the new Pokemon games, named Diamond and Pearl, for the DS. Often dismissed as childish entertainment the Pokemon games still pack a gaming punch, especially with the addition of online. It can be hard to ignore the twee heritage but filter out the merchandise and pre-teen marketing campaigns and you've got some deep, clever and sneakily addictive gaming.
Last up is Mario Party 8, the latest in the increasingly tedious mini-game series. Not even the Wii can save this one. Elsewhere Aleks urges EA to use their creative clout and start a gaming revolution. Fingers crossed eh?
