Operation Flashpoint: Dragon Rising
(Xbox 360, PS3) Much-anticipated shooter that could be the most immersive war game
of the year (we’re reserving judgement until Modern Warfare 2). The controls are initially ultra fiddly and the detail a bit overwhelming, but the vast tactical and combat choices soon become the game’s most impressive attribute. You’re an American soldier charged with overthrowing the Chinese from the island of Skira, and it’s a tension-fuelled mission from start-to-(eventual)-finish. Prepare to say goodbye to your weekends.

NBA Live 10
(Xbox 360, PS3, PSP) Still our B-Ball choice over the less-slick NBA 2K10 (also out this week). There are huge improvements to the player realism (check out the tattoo detail), shot control and even the crowds are rowdier; which make this the ultimate hoops sim.

Scribblenauts
(DS) Yes, this quiz game is aimed at a younger audience, but that doesn’t make it any less enjoyable – or tricky. The cool twist here is that you actually write the items you need to solve the problem on-screen and they appear. And almost anything is available.