Deus Ex: Human Revolution

Deus Ex: Human Revolution came out earlier this year and became an instant hit. Since it’s part of a series that dates back a full 11 years, it definitely appeals to the more matured gamers, but its action packed and well-rounded game play (save for a few awkward boss battles) makes it a great game even for those who never played the original Deus Ex. It’s best played on the PC, but it’s also available on Xbox 360 and PS3, and keep in mind that it is intended for ages 17+.

Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Skyrim is a newly released game that will definitely be one of the top sellers this holiday season, and easily one of the highest rated and most anticipated games of the year. It is available on Xbox 360, PS3, and PC, similar to Deus Ex: HR. Also similar to Deus Ex is its ESRB rating of “Mature;” however, it is far less graphic of a game in comparison.

Saints Row: The Third

Saints Row is a gritty third-person shooter about being on the wrong side of the law and caught in the middle of a gang war. Another ESRB “Mature” title, you can expect it to be much like the controversial Grand Theft Auto games. Like most games these days, it’s also available on multiple platforms, though it plays best on the PS3 and Xbox 360.

Batman Arkham City

Arkham City is the first title on our list that does not carry the “Mature” rating. Instead, the ESRB has rated this one “Teen.” The game has received very high acclaim and is well liked by both teenage and adult gamers. Of course, you’ll probably want to have played Batman Arkham Asylum first, as this is a direct sequel. Again, this one is available on several platforms (even the upcoming Wii U sometime in 2012), but it plays best on the consoles.

Battlefield 3

This is one you’ll definitely want to get for the PC. As an online first-person shooter, the PC version offers the best controller options and server support. Even though it’s rated “Mature,” animated war-time violence and some strong language is as bad as the game gets (really more on the level of Arkham City). The Battlefield series has always been a fan favorite in the first-person shooter genre, and Battlefield 3 is no exception.

Don’t be afraid to get adventurous and wander over to our Video Game Section. There are hundreds of very highly rated games to give you great gift ideas, and be sure to keep an eye on our blog for even more great Holiday Helper guides to come.

After about 3 months of availability in Europe and Asia, our current top-rated cell phone known as the Galaxy S II has finally seen an official announcement for a release in the U.S.

The Specs

The Galaxy S II is a monster of a phone, in terms of both size and processing power. It sports a 4.3-inch 800×480 pixel Super AMOLED Plus display (and even 4.5-inches in some versions), yet it’s actually the world’s thinnest smartphone at just 8.5mm thick. The Super AMOLED display not only gives extremely bright and vibrant colors but also goes very easy on the battery in comparison to other display technologies.

Under the hood is Samsung’s latest Exynos processor, a 1.2GHz dual-core beast. This is actually very similar to the dual-core processor found in the iPad 2, except faster. The higher frequency and an improved graphics processor make it considerably faster than the iPad 2, and if you’ll recall, Apple said that the iPad 2 was up to 9 time faster than the original iPad and iPhone 4. So doing the math here, it seems that, according to Apple, the Galaxy S II should be more than 9 times faster than its aging iPhone 4 competitor.

It will also feature 1GB of RAM for better multitasking, an 8MP camera capable of 1080p video recording, a 2MP front facing camera for video chat, 16GB of internal storage plus a microSD expansion slot, Wireless A/B/G/N, NFC (Near Field Communication), and HDMI output via the microUSB port.

Running the latest version of Android (2.3 Gingerbread), the Galaxy S II will have all of the great features included in Google’s market dominating operating system. It will also be running Samsung’s TouchWiz user interface, adding even more useful features.

The Carriers

Just like the original Galaxy S, the Galaxy S II is poised to launch on all of the United States’ major cell carriers (though Verizon may be sitting this one out in preference of a slightly different Samsung device). Both AT&T and Sprint have already announced launch dates of the 18^th and 16^th of September respectively. T-Mobile will also be getting it, though no release date has been announced.

Like last time, each carrier has its own name for the Galaxy S II as well as their own look. AT&T will be calling it the Samsung Attain and going with a design that doesn’t much resemble its first Galaxy S phone, the Captivate. If anything, it looks more like T-Mobile’s Vibrant. AT&T is also the only carrier who will be keeping the 4.3-inch display size (both Sprint and T-Mobile are opting for a 4.5-inch display).

Sprint is going with the name Epic 4G Touch, toting it as a keyboardless version of the original Epic 4G (Sprint’s version of the Galaxy S). It won’t be quite as rounded as the original, but it does have a much more rounded edge than AT&T’s Attain.

T-Mobile has decided on an even more rounded edge than the other two and will be calling it the Hercules, surely on account of its large 4.5-inch screen and unmatched processing power.

The Bottom Line

The Galaxy S II tops our cell phone list for a very good reason: it’s an amazing phone. The 4.3 and 4.5-inch screens may make it feel a little too bulky for some, but it does make up for it by being ultra thin. Its specs make it a great buy for anyone who wants to be on the cutting edge of performance as well as those who want something that won’t be outdated in just a year. It’s even a great choice for those tired of blinding waiting for the unsure release of the Apple iPhone 5.

“Bridge Cameras”

Many of the most viewed cameras last month were Bridge Cameras, which provide a “bridge” between the small, fully automatic digital compacts and larger, more expensive digital SLRs. They’re generally popular for supporting very high zoom lenses and advanced manual features while still maintaining a manageable size and price.

Olympus ZX-1

The ZX-1 was out number one most viewed item last month, popular due considerably to its compact size with much of the same manual functionality you’d get from an SLR. It offers essentially all of the same specs and features of the competing Canon PowerShot G12 and is even the same price, but manages to be a bit smaller.

Canon PowerShot G12

As the third most popular item last month, the G12 is certainly no slouch. While the ZX-1 may have it beat in terms of size, the G12 features the better lens (with 5x zoom instead of 4x) as well as Canon’s esteemed DIGIC 4 image processor and improved image sensor.

Canon PowerShot SX30 IS

The SX30 IS is another bridge camera, coming 4^th on our list; however, it’s not a competitor to the G12 or ZX-1. This is because the SX30 focuses on combining the automatic features of a standard digital compact with the zooming capabilities of an SLR, and with a 35x optical zoom, it does just that.

Nikon CoolPix P500

Right behind the SX30 in the 5^th spot is its main competitor, the Nikon P500. Also a superzoom camera, the P500 has a 36x zoom; although, compared to the SX30, it features a slightly poorer lens. This is made up for by the fact that Nikon uses a CMOS image sensor, considered better than the Canon’s CCD sensor. Still, general consensus lies with the SX30.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5

The LX5 is a camera that looks great on paper, but compared to other products in its class generally fails to perform. Still, it managed to come in 10^th in last month’s most popular products. It competes with the G12 and SX30 IS, but due to its poorer color-depth (19.6-bit vs 20.4-bit, which makes a tremendous difference), the LX5 does not produce the same quality of photos; however, it makes up for it with a much cheaper price, about $100 cheaper actually.

Traditional Compact Digital Cameras

Sony Cyber-shot HX5V

Coming in at number 9 in the top 10 was Sony’s HX5V. The HX5V is actually one of Sony’s last year’s models and is no longer in production, but because of this, it can be found for significantly under its original retail price. Replacing the HX5V is the HX7V, coming with all of the same features but upgrades the image sensor and LCD screen significantly; however, the HX5V’s price tag is hard to beat.

1: Patapon 3

All of the Patapon games have been surprising hits and a staple of the PSP platform. Patapon 3 is no exception. As a direct sequel, following Patapon 2, the game play is essentially the same, marching your armies to the beat of a drum; however, new elements, such as Hero Patapons and expanded multiplayer modes, breathe extra excitement into the series.

2: Dissidia 012 Final Fantasy

With success of the original Dissidia, it comes as no surprise that there would be a second. It’s your typical fighting game but with all of the most loved characters of the Final Fantasy franchise. Unlike the original, Dissidia 012 also includes a single-player story mode, giving it some much needed depth.

3: Final Fantasy IV: The Complete Collection

Just as it was done with Final Fantasy: Tactics as well as the previous Final Fantasy installments, Final Fantasy IV: The Complete Collection is a direct remake of the original, sporting much of the same game play of the 1991 classic but with high-detail CGI cut scenes to emphasize the story.

4: Phantom Brave

Phantom Brave was originally published on the PlayStation 2 game in 2004 and has now been remade for the Wii and PSP. As a tactical RPG with a fun storyline that is still simple enough to put down and pick back up, it lends itself nicely to the portable environment of the PSP.

5: Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together

As a recreation of the Super Nintendo classic, Tactics Ogre, this new version gives you the same great tactics-based game play with a rather detailed game world and storyline. If you’re looking for a bit of nostalgia, this is the game for you.

The PSP really does have loads of great titles, and you can view them all in our PSP Games Section. Tell us some of your favorites in the comments below.

1: Pokémon Black & White

Pokémon is one of those games that makes up part of Nintendo’s heart(gold) and soul(silver). Many people bought the DS solely so that they could play Pokémon, and Black & White lives up to the reputation. It’s the same Pokémon experience we should all be used to, but with an exciting graphics overhaul, and of course, all new Pokémon!

2: ­­­Okamiden

As a sequel to the much loved Okami, the DS exclusive Okamiden pairs the colorful brush-based game play with the DS’ touch screen interface. The two truly make a great match, but if you loved Okami, don’t be surprised if a bit of the story is repeated in Okamiden.

3: Radiant Historia

Radiant Historia is a time traveling, tactics-style, RPG offering game play experience reminiscent of Super Mario RPG and Legend of Mana, along with elements from the Chrono Series. It’s hands-down the best RPG on the DS this year.

4: Dragon Quest VI: Realms of Revelation

The Dragon Quest (also known as Dragon Warrior) series has been around for a couple decades now. This version is actually a DS remake of the 1995 original (for Super Nintendo). If you’re looking for an epic RPG that will give you, literally, days worth of game play, Dragon Quest is where it’s at.

5: de Blob 2

As much fun as de Blob 2 is for the Wii, it really finds its calling on the DS. As a light game with fairly uninvolved game play, it really is best suited for handhelds, and paired with the DS, it doesn’t disappoint.

If you would like to see reviews for all DS games, from this year and the past, head on over to our Nintendo DS Games Section. Be sure to sort by alaScore to see which rank the best.

1: The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword

While it isn’t actually out yet, it would be a great disservice to the Wii NOT to mention it. Nintendo has always been about franchise games (many people buy the Wii just to play the new Mario, Metroid, or Zelda games). Skyward Sword should be available later this year, and is expected to live up to all of the hype.

2: Conduit 2

As one of the most recent games released on the Wii, Conduit 2 is one of the most popular right now, though it has not received the most flattering reviews. Production values feel a bit cheap, with more than a few glitches and shortcomings, but overall game play is still enjoyable. Plus it brings a somewhat Halo-like multiplayer to the Wii.

3: Mario Sports Mix

While nowhere near as in-depth as Madden NFL 11, or any other serious sports game for that matter, Mario Sports Mix still provides some fun and energetic game play for all ages. The best and worst thing about it is that it really requires no skill to play.

4: Lost in Shadow

Lost in Shadow is a puzzle platformer that was popular in Japan and recently released in the US. The concept of the game is fun and new, but sadly offers very little else, often becoming difficult and frustrating as it drags on.

5: de Blob 2

De Blob 2 is an enjoyable puzzle platformer at an even more enjoyable price. It’s a cute game, definitely intended for a younger crowd, but still has a fun little storyline.

Really none of the Wii’s currently released 2011 titles stand up well against last year’s games, like Donkey Kong Country Retruns, Kirby’s Epic Yarn, and Metroid: Other M. It’s likely that developers have started to switch their focus to the upcoming Wii U. All of the Wii’s most popular games can be viewed in our Wii Games Section.

1: Portal 2

You’ve probably already noticed the trend that Portal 2 is among the top games for every platform that it’s available on. It’s really that great of a game. If you don’t already have it, buy it (though the PC version should be your first choice).

2: L.A. Noire

L.A. Noire is one of the most popular games this year, on both PS3 and Xbox 360 (and likely PC when that version is released later this year). As a stylistic third-person shooter with A LOT of cinematic qualities, the PS3’s hardware is better configured to make the most out of the game, making it a slightly better experience over the Xbox 360 version.

3: inFAMOUS 2

As a direct sequel to its 2009 counterpart, the just released inFAMOUS 2 is basically a direct continuation in the storyline. The game play remains much the same as the original, running around, completing missions, and gaining power; however, inFAMOUS 2 includes a new features that allows players to create their own missions and share them with other real players around the globe. Critics give the game relatively high scores, and as more user-generated content is populated, they game will only get better.

4: Killzone 3

Killzone 3 is extremely similar to its predecessor. Its new features are primarily cosmetic but bring a much more encompassing environment to the first-person shooter. Optional use of the Playstation Move controller also contributes greatly to the game play. The multiplayer mode is hailed as rivaling that of Call of Duty: Black Ops, one of the best in the genre. Where Killzone 3 falters in comparison with its predecessor is the storyline, which doesn’t quite deliver as strongly as Killzone 2.

5: Mortal Kombat

Mortal Kombat returns! Keeping true to its roots, this 2011 edition of Mortal Kombat delivers a story driven 2D fighting experience, but with enhanced 3D graphics. Praised for its balanced characters and classic look, Mortal Kombat is sure to take you back to your younger gaming days. Chief complaints revolve around the difficulty of some levels forcing you to take less than honorable approaches to win, though this, too, remains true to the original titles of the series.

Check out more  PS3 gaming reviews in our PS3 Games Category. Remember to sort by alaScore to find the top rated.

1: L.A. Noire

L.A. Noire is a very stylized game meant to feel a lot like a noir film (think L.A. Confidential), with rich character detail and an advanced facial expression engine. The game has been criticized as being little more than a string of cut scenes, leaving little actual control in the hands of the player, though the methodical storyline generally makes up for this shortcoming.

2: Portal 2

Portal 2, like many first-person shooters, is clearly intended for the PC platform, but for those without a proper gaming PC or who dislike playing on a mouse and keyboard, Portal 2’s plot and game play still manage to port over very well to the 360.

3: Dead Space 2

Dead Space 2, unlike Portal 2, is much better suited for the gaming console environment. Its third-person view and action oriented game play make it much more enjoyable on the Xbox than the PC.

4: BRINK

BRINK is a stylized first-person shooter with an added flare of acrobatic free-running. With RPG elements and an enjoyable multiplayer mode, BRINK offers a unique experience to which players have responded positively. Critical acclaim has not been so great, though. Many feel that BRINK is unfinished and will take several updates before reaching its full potential.

5: Shift 2: Unleashed

Consoles, with their analog controls and force feedback, generally fare much better than PCs when it comes to racing games. This is definitely the case with Shift 2: Unleashed, the latest installment in the Need for Speed franchise. It comes as a direct sequel to Need for Speed: Shift, offering similar gameplay but features new cars, more tracks, and a new night-time racing mode.

Other notable Xbox 360 titles so far this year include Crysis 2, DiRT 3, and Bulletstorm. You can find a full list of all of the most popular 360 titles in our Xbox 360 Games Category, sorted by alaScore.

1: Portal 2

Portal 2 is everything you could possibly love from the original Portal (like witty humor, exciting puzzles, and insane sentient robots set to make your life a living hell) plus an entirely new game mode: Cooperative Multiplayer. Portal 2 truly is nothing short of amazing. We just wish it were a bit longer; both game modes only last about 12 hours in total.

2: Dead Space 2

If you like suspenseful horror, the Dead Space series is for you. Dead Space 2 keeps the same gruesomely terrifying game play as its predecessor but with an added flare of more action. It also includes a fun, though somewhat limited, team based multiplayer mode for some extra depth.

3: Total War: Shogun 2

Shogun 2 is certainly one of the lesser known hit titles of the year, but it still turns out to be a very enjoyable strategy title. It combines both turn-based and real-time strategy together into a unique experience. It is often praised for bringing the Total War series back to its roots.

4: Crysis 2

Crytek games have always been praised for pushing the envelope of graphics performance, and Crysis 2 was no exception (though some wish Crytek pushed further than it did). Crysis 2 took the series out of the tropical jungle and into the concrete jungle and refined the game play experience. It also adds a critically acclaimed multiplayer mode that rivals Call of Duty’s Modern Warfare 2.

5: DiRT 3

DiRT 3 is the current leader when it comes to PC Racing Simulators. Even though it only focuses on Rally Racing, which disappoints some, it maintains a lot of widespread appeal with additional party modes, such as Zombie Infection and Capture the Flag. It also includes a new Hardcore Mode for dedicated racers who want to test their skill.

We also have many more PC games in our PC Games Category. Just sort by alaScore to help find the most popular.

On top of product reviews and ratings, we have the possibility to use our homegrown data. We are then able to see what the major trends of the year are in terms of products and brands. This is precisely what this post is about. This time, we decided to focus on cell phones.

Throughout the year, the top rated cell phones were:

(results based on 1050 expert reviews from Nov 30^th 2009 through Nov 30^th 2010)

• #1: HTC Desire

The HTC Desire features a sleek design with a sharp and responsive touch screen. The 1GHz Snapdragon processor keeps things running smoothly, and call quality is good

HTC Desire Reviews

• #2: Motorola Droid X

The Motorola Droid X makes another fine addition to Verizon’s Android family, bringing with it a rich multimedia experience and more connectivity features.

Motorola Droid X Reviews

• #3: HTC Desire HD

Powered by the latest Android 2.2 Froyo hand in hand with the latest HTC Sense. HTC might just have a natural bestseller on their hands

HTC Desire HD Reviews

• #4: Apple iPhone 4

Apple shows again with their new iPhone 4 that they are undoubtly a top player in the smartphone game

Apple iPhone 4 Reviews

• #5: Samsung Galaxy S GT-I9000

The Galaxy S is a pleasure to use thanks to the smooth, bright and colourful screen. Packed with tons of features, it’s the best Android hardware we’ve seen so far.

Samsung Galaxy S GT-I9000 Reviews

Throughout the year, the top rated phone brands were:

(results based on 616 expert reviews from Nov 30^th 2009 through Nov 30^th 2010)

• #1: Apple

Apple released one of the top-rated phone of the year in June with the iPhone 4.

• #2: Samsung

Samsung released seven of the 50 best-rated cell phones of the year, including the Samsung Galaxy S GT-I9000 or the Samsung Epic 4G.

• #3: HTC

HTC released eight of the top 50 cell phones of 2010, including the HTC Desire, HTC Desire HD or HTC Legend.

• #4: Motorola

Motorola released five of the top 50 cell phones of 2010, including the Motorola Droid X, Motorola Droid 2 or the Motorola Milestone.

• #5: Sony Ericsson

Sony Ericsson released seven of the top 50 cell phones of 2010, including the Sony Ericsson Xperia X10, X10 Mini and X10 Mini Pro.