Viva Piata: Trouble in Paradise
Microsoft (Xbox 360)
Cuter than a shop full of buttons, Viva Piata is one for all the family.
This character-creation game is like the Sims crossed with EA's Spore, with a gardening simulator added for good measure.
Nurture your small patch of land to attract Piatas - colourful little munchkins who eat, sleep, and enjoy a bit of nookie from time to time.
This sequel to 2006's game has a bit more of a story thrown into the mix, as you set out to thwart a villainous Piata's plot.
You can trap, train, breed, and manage 100 different Piata species, with loads of customisable options along the way. Furthermore, you can theme your garden (like a pirate cove, space centre, etc) and invite friends, in co-op play, to tinker with your vegetables.
9/10
Madden NFL 09
EA (Xbox 360)
They might not know the meaning of the word 'football', but the Americans sure know how to throw a party.
In Madden 09, the umpteenth title in the series, there are 85 new features. These include a new Virtua Trainer Mode that teaches you the basics of American Football and how to master the controller.
As in Tiger Woods 09, the game engine monitors your performance during play, and adapts different experiences each time you play.
Apart from the cheerleaders, American football might be an ugly spectacle, but with realistic weather, dazzling player movements and brimming stadiums, 09 is slicker than a Dallas Cowboy.
A touchdown for sports fans, then, but if you hate American Football, don't even bother turning up.
8/10
