SPORTS

Mario Strikers: Charged
This Mario themed soccer game may sound like a gimmicky game, but it is a deep, good looking and most importantly fun game that has a lot going for it. Really at it's heart it is a soccer game pitting Mario and his friends against various teams made up of friends and enemies from the Mario series. The action is fast and frenetic with the analog stick used to control and the buttons used for kicks, hits or dodges, motion control is understated in the control scheme but executed well when it is used. This game is very fun as a solo, local multiplayer and online multiplayer (one of the few on the Wii) match.

Why Buy it? The developer of Mario Strikers: Charged took great care in making this game and ensuring it was not a cheap and quick sequel to it's predecessor. The animation and graphics are impressive and true 480p widescreen, it makes a huge difference on this system when it is implemented right and these guys did it. The game play is truly fun with fast action, great control and MegaStrikes that can change the course of the game. If you or a friend are looking for a great soccer game that is accessible and fun, look no further. Mario Strikers: Charged is available right now.

Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games
Strongly hyped as the first time classic game icons and former console opponents Sonic the Hedgehog and Mario team up in a game, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games delivers the goods in a fun sports mashup game. Featuring all the classic events from track and field games over the ages this game has extensive motion control, strong characters and an addictive play style. The 24 events have you doing everything from shooting and rowing, to 100M dash and fencing, each event has their control intricacies and all require some strategy and finesse to play. This is a fun game (especially with friends) and is available right now.

Why Buy it? Novelty factor aside, it is really cool to see Sonic and Mario competing against each other in the games many events. This game has simple but effective graphics, a great many events as well as progressive track unlocks as you complete the game which add a lot of replayability to it. The motion controls are implemented really well with finesse and timing needed to successful win events, this is something not a lot of developers do right for the Wii and Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games has it in spades. This is a great sports party game and a wonderful replacement for the Wii Sports game that you have played since launch.