Electronic Gaming Monthly's Top 25 PlayStation Launch Games

Total Eclipse Turbo (PlayStation)

#25

“I didn't care for the 3DO version and the PlayStation rendition doesn't work either. The game is slow and the power-ups do very little. There are instant hits galore, particularly in the tunnels where the collision will drive you nuts. The control is okay, but the way you interact is poor. Total Eclipse: Turbo does have a few cool effects, like the waves and the super bomb, but these don't make the game. In all honesty, I'd pass this game up unless you liked the 3DO version.” (5.5 out of 10)

Kileak: The DNA Imperative (PlayStation)

#24

“Okay, the environment is set well. The sounds and graphics are very appropriate for the mood and setting of this game. However, the poor interface and control simply did not rest well in my mind while reviewing this game. Where did the control go? I was expecting another DOOM rip-off, and I got even less. Sure, everyone likes the rotating environments and the big, zippy, explosive weapons, but what good are these things without an effective means of control?” (6.9 out of 10)

Road Rash (PlayStation)

#20

“After playing Road Rash, I couldn't help but think -- “Been there, done that.” Don't get me wrong: The game's graphics and video are smoother and more refined compared to its 3DO predecessor. Otherwise, the game's the same. This game rocked years ago, but it looks average compared to today's racing games.” (7 out of 10)

Zero Divide (PlayStation)

#22

“With Mortal Kombat 3 and Tekken already out for the PlayStation, Zero Divide is up against tough competition. Well, Zero Divide does have some unique features to it, such as a well-rounded selection of characters and moves that are very different from other games. It also has the creative Japanese look that sets it apart from anything else. I found it unusual that it uses only two attack buttons, which indicates simplicity, but that limitation is compensated by a harder game difficulty. Plenty of surprises in this one.” (7.25 out of 10)

Viewpoint (PlayStation)

#21

“Damn hard. The levels of difficulty should be changed, or there should be some more power-ups to compensate. Many players will have to work on this one for a few hours just to get past the second stage. The musical tracks are intense, but will get under your skin shortly while playing. Control is simple and easy to manage as long as you withheld your Zaxxon ability after lying dormant for so long. A great title for players looking for a one-level linear shooter that is really hard.” (7.6 out of 10)

Gex (PlayStation)

#20

“The PlayStation version of Gex has a lot of improvements over the 3DO version. Dana Gould's voice-overs are crystal clear and understandable. The cinemas are amazingly crisp compared to the original. Gamers who have not played the 3DO version will enjoy this title a lot more than those who have played the hell out of the 3DO version. I would have liked this title a lot more if I had never played it on 3DO, but gamers new to Gex will enjoy the game, humor and all.” (7.9 out of 10)

3D Lemmings (PlayStation)

#19

“As a long-time Lemmings fan, it's great to see them grow into the third dimension. The masses have been rendered into 3D with impressive accuracy. Adjusting to the unlimited view and camera control can be a shock for the unsuspecting. The mazes hold the same classic challenge and most importantly, it feels as if you are playing a Lemmings title and not a DOOM clone with green-haired characters.” (8 out of 10)

Loaded (PlayStation)

#18

“Shoot, maim, kill. Loaded is the fast-paced game that sends you on a search-and-destroy mission killing everything in your path. The visuals are clean and the character movement is smooth and exacting, letting you move quickly around to blast the nasties who are gunning for you. The only thing to watch out for is when you get too close to an enemy and can't seem to turn fast enough to get him.” (8.1 out of 10)

Battle Arena Toshinden (PlayStation)

#17

“I was really blown away by the incredible look of this game, and when I first tried it I was only impressed further. The game plays as well as it looks. The graphics have a great 3D look that really moves 3D and not just a one plane shaded polygon. The characters are fun to play, including the bosses. Fighting fans will like it right from their first try. It plays more like Street Fighter than Virtua, with a faster pace and several special moves. A must-try for PlayStation owners.” (8.1 out of 10)

NBA in the Zone (PlayStation)

#16

“This is the basketball game to beat. Konami has slammed onto the sports scene with authority. They've hit the three pointer at the buzzer with In the Zone. The gameplay is incredible and the graphics are outstanding. This game may cause companies to think twice before hitting the PlayStation hard court.” (8.25 out of 10)

NBA Jam: Tournament Edition (PlayStation)

#15

“Everywhere you go, NBA Jam: Tournament Edition is in your face. It does get a bit redundant seeing this game on every platform, but this translation for the PlayStation is done superbly well. I can't imagine how this game can get any better ... unless it comes out on the Ultra 64. In the end, it's good ol' Jam with better graphics.” (8.25 out of 10)

The Raiden Project (PlayStation)

#14

“Why does Raiden seem to be one of the first shooters to come out for each new system? Anyway, Raiden Project is a timeless shooter and is now even better because you get Raiden I & II on the same disc. If you remember, Raiden 1 was quite easy and still is. However, Raiden II is a real challenge. The power-ups actually do something useful, as well. Shooter fans, don't pass up Raiden Project. There may not be another one like this.” (7.4 out of 10)

Discworld (PlayStation)

#13

“I hear Eric Idle's voice. No more needs to be said! As the funniest point and click adventure to appear in a long time, Discworld features a load of dialog, all done in sarcastic British humor. This game is solid entertainment from the intro to the last stage. Even the riddles and quests have been developed for enjoyment more than purpose. Graphics are top-notch. And the control is, well, the standard for a point-and-click. My only gripe is that the game drags at some points.” (8.5 out of 10)

Rayman (PlayStation)

#12

“Contrary to the early believe that the PlayStation can't do side-scrolling games very well, Rayman comes out shining in many ways. The game's visuals can be easily noted among the best, with lots of detail and animation that rivals the animation that comes out of Disney. The music is also great, even through it's geared to a much younger listening crowd. The play control takes a bit of getting used to, but once you get it down, it's pretty easy. I like this game.” (8.6 out of 10)

Mortal Kombat 3 (PlayStation)

#11

“Well, it looks and plays very close to the arcade version with combos and the little nuances intact. As a port of the arcade, it is an excellent job. I personally have a slight problem with the PlayStation controller and had some difficulty on some of the combos, but that's just me. Access time is tight and the game is as close as any Mortal Kombat fan could wish for (except for Shang's lag time in the morphs). If you like the original, you'll love it.” (8.6 out of 10)

Jumping Flash! (PlayStation)

#10

“I always wondered what Mario or Sonic would be like if they were shown from the first-person perspective. Jumping Flash is that. The graphics are outstanding and you really interact in a 3D world. I thought the cutesy theme would get on my nerves, but it didn't. This game excels in every department. Sometimes dodging the hit of some enemies is hard, but in this game, it's livable. Jumping Flash is, most importantly, fun and shows off what the PlayStation can do.” (8.6 out of 10)

Goal Storm (PlayStation)

#9

“I didn't expect FIFA Soccer to have any stiff competition until after I played this game. The polygon-drawn players move realistically and the gameplay is silky smooth. The interface is so user-friendly that an instruction manual isn't needed. My only wish would be for real players' names and a greater variety of crowd noises.” (8.75 out of 10)

NHL FaceOff (PlayStation)

#8

“Sony has gone into the corner and come away with the puck – they have blasted a one-timer into the top corner. Hockey fans will enjoy the fast-paced action and the attention to detail. There are many different angles to view those great saves or awesome goals, including a view from behind the net.” (8.75 out of 10)

PGA Tour '96 (PlayStation)

#7

“PGA Tour scores a hole in one with me. The game play is excellent as usual with an EA Sports golf game. The only change this time is it now has the graphics to go with the gameplay. Whether you're a novice or a pro at golf games, PGA Tour '96 captures all aspects of the complex game of golf. Tee it up.” (8.75 out of 10)

Ridge Racer (PlayStation)

#6

“This is one of the most addictive games I have ever played. This game is incredible, and after the game has been loaded, you can take the Ridge Racer CD out and replace it with one of your favorite music CDs. You can still play the game listening to your favorite music. I don't know why you would ... the music for this game rocks. This game is a must-play.” (8.75 out of 10)

X-COM: UFO Defense (PlayStation)

#5

“X-Com's graphics may be only average, but its in-depth gameplay and terrific strategy will win you over. The difficulty may be a bit extreme, but you can keep going back to it. The range of missions and the diversity keep it fresh every time you play. X-Com is a must-buy. There is so much to do, you really get your money's worth. You can keep playing this one for months. Hard as hell, but great.” (8.9 out of 10)

NFL GameDay (PlayStation)

#4

“This could very well be the Madden killer that everyone is waiting for. The game is close to perfect. All of the action on the field can't get any better, with great tackles and other player abilities. The stadium comes alive with real-time crowd reactions and cheers. This is too real to pass up. You know change is good.” (9 out of 10)

WWF WrestleMania: The Arcade Game (PlayStation)

#3

“While still trying to find the coin slot on the PlayStation, WWF WrestleMania is one exciting game. All of the moves and combos are here and easier to initiate. As far as sounds go, this rocks your woofers and has off-the-wall commentary and crowd reaction. WWF WrestleMania is a complete wrestling game with all of the fixings.” (9 out of 10)

Warhawk (PlayStation)

#2

“I have waited my entire life for a game like Warhawk. It has everything you could ever want from a game. For one, the game utilizes every button on the PlayStation controller, and believe me, you will use them! I have always loved a game with a challenge, and Warhawk requires more strategy and skill than even the most experienced players will have. Excellent control, killer graphics and smokin' sound effects are just the beginning. The only drawback is the small number of levels.” (9.1 out of 10)

Twisted Metal (PlayStation)

#1

“As an old fan of the board game Car Wars, Twisted Metal brought all the carnage of my pen-and-paper RPG days to the TV. The graphics are outstanding and each level gets progressively better. The climax on the rooftops is a real blast. There are plenty of different vehicles to choose from. The whole premise is sort of warped in a cool way. The music fits it perfectly. The two-player mode is a blast. So far, this is my favorite PlayStation game.” (9.25 out of 10)