Please support Game Informer. Print magazine subscriptions are less than $2 per issue

X
News

Review Round-Up: Force Unleashed II, Sims 3, Fable III, More

by Jeff Cork on Oct 26, 2010 at 03:30 AM

It's another big week for game releases, with new installments in the Fable, Star Wars: The Force Unleashed, and Rock Band franchises, to name a few. Here are links to all of this week's reviews, so you won't miss out on anything. Check 'em out before you crack open your wallet.

After you've read through the excerpts below, click through to check out the complete text, including the scores for each game.

God of War: Ghost of Sparta
"...Chains of Olympus looks like a practice run compared to Ghost of Sparta. From the dynamic combat to the cool story, every aspect of this follow-up has been enhanced, creating an experience that is more than just 'good for a PSP game.' Ghost of Sparta is a standout entry in an already amazing franchise."—Joe Juba

Fable III (Xbox 360)
“From raising a family, becoming a land baron, and even partnering up with friends locally or online, this is the most fully realized version of Albion yet. It’s a must-play for fans of adventure or anyone who thinks they can run things better than those bums in Washington. Good luck.”—Jeff Cork

Red Dead Redemption: Undead Nightmare (Xbox 360, PS3)
“Clearing towns and fetching items becomes tedious, but it’s still a blast to pop into Dead Eye and take the heads off six zombies in one lightning-quick flurry. After spending the seven hours required to finish everything in story mode, the online Undead Overrun horde mode will keep you busy for a while longer. Fans of John Marston’s first adventure shouldn’t hesitate to saddle up and take on his new foes.”—Dan Ryckert

Rock Band 3 (Xbox 360, PS3, Wii)
“In many ways, Rock Band 3 is a culmination of Harmonix’s efforts to bring music to the masses. But it’s also a new chapter in the franchise that starts the gradual merging of real and game-based music. Plenty of naysayers have already declared music games dead. Harmonix certainly hasn’t gotten the message; this band is primed for a new tour.”—Matt Miller

The Sims 3 (Xbox 360, PS3)
“With Sims 3, console gamers finally get a true translation of the gameplay that has made the PC entries such a hit. Engaging new content and intuitive design makes picking up the console port of EA’s digital dollhouse a no-brainer.”—Meagan VanBurkleo

Star Wars: The Force Unleashed II (Xbox 360, PS3)
“In a similar vein to the Starkiller clone’s role, The Force Unleashed II is a shadow of its former self. The graceful gameplay offers a higher level of excitement, but the plot and characterization – two large components from which I expect great things from any Star Wars journey – makes this experience one of 2010’s biggest disappointments.”—Andrew Reiner

WWE Smackdown Vs. Raw 2011 (Xbox 360, PS3, Wii)
“WWE Universe mode is my favorite addition this year, and it could easily be the new marquee mode if they improve it in future titles. Certain elements of the game are rough around the edges, but these annoyances aren’t enough to bring down the experience as a whole. Wrestling fans know that some backstage inconsistencies can be looked past as long as the talent makes a solid in-ring showing, and it’s no different here.”—Dan Ryckert