Blazing Angels 2: Secret Missions

Warplane fans growing tired of simulators should pick up a copy of Blazing Angels 2, a breezy arcade-flight third-person shooter set against the backdrop of the World War II. Whereas its predecessor tried to stick to historical battles, Blazing Angels 2 offers players a list of fictional “undercover” missions. The decision to toss posterity aside proves to be one of the game’s greatest assets.

Players now have access to a far more interesting range of planes, as well as far more unrealistic (and therefore, fun) objectives — flying through downtown San Francisco fending off kamikaze pilots was particularly thrilling, if completely ridiculous. Players are also rewarded with upgrade points for kills, stunts and secondary missions. The control system is superb and while the overall plot isn’t spectacular, the game becomes more action-packed by the level. History buffs may scoff, but this game offers up highly satisfying, if unsophisticated, fun.

The Daily Telegraph

Pro Evolution Soccer 2008

Some welcome finesse has been added to the latest in the Pro Evo series. Those “hit and hope” passes are a thing of the past, while a greater emphasis on physicality reflects the modern game. Players with a high dribbling skill can now be used as one-man armies. Goals, however, require more patience although they are spectacular when you get it right.
New features such as the shirt-pull, dive and targeted cross are tricky to pull off, but add new ways to break down the defence — a must, given that the game now uses artificial intelligence. Sadly, the menu is only slightly less confusing than before and the soundtrack is typically irritating. But commentary is far more fluid, adding that extra touch of authenticity to those sofa-based cup ties. Clever, high-tempo football is the order of the day here and the recurring feature that makes PES the game of choice among amateur tacticians.