Holiday gift guide: PlayStation 2 games

	GALLERY
'SSX'

In this story: 'SSX' 'Smuggler's Run' 'Street Fighter EX3' 'Sky Odyssey' RELATED STORIES, SITES

From Dennis Michael
CNN Showbiz Today Correspondent

(CNN) -- There is little doubt that Sony's PlayStation 2 was the most hyped launch for a new video game platform. The system deserved all the attention it got too. The graphics are amazing when the software is created to exploit those capabilities to the fullest.

One of the shining examples of how the PS2 system can be pushed to the graphical extreme is "SSX." This snowboarding game from Electronic Arts combines the fast-paced action of racing with the extreme sports adrenaline rush of performing outrageous stunts and aerials. The game features a cast of characters to control, each with their own unique riding style and attributes.

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An arsenal of snowboards is available for each rider and completing levels within the game unlocks new courses, riders and even more snowboards. This is a very fast-paced game requiring quick reflexes and nerves of steel. But if you are not a gamer, it can still be enjoyable to just sit back and watch the unreal action unfold.

The PlayStation 2 launched with the earliest of early adopters in mind. Software developers must have known that a large number of PS2's first players would be young adults. That is why there are currently so few kid-friendly games for the system.

One game appealing to the older demographic is "Smuggler's Run." Racing games have been among the most popular genres recently. This title combines the excitement of racing with the sneaky thrill of doing something illegal, such as smuggling contraband.

Fighting games have enjoyed a long line of success on video game platforms, and an originator of the genre comes to the PS2 with "Street Fighter EX3." The gameplay is much the same as with previous "Street Fighter" titles; square off against your opponent, try to defeat them with your best moves and continue competing until you become the master. Of course, take that and combine it with the PS2's graphic abilities and the visuals blow away the fighting games of the past.

Activision's second title for the PlayStation 2 will appeal to a wider audience and boasts being the first flight simulation for the new system. "Sky Odyssey" puts players at the control stick of more than 10 aircraft including a barnstorming biplane, a stealth fighter and a Corsair. The game features five modes of play spread over 40 missions. This is definitely a flight simulator, not a fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants war game. But aircraft carrier landings and rescue missions in a 3-D environment should satisfy armchair pilots.

Toughest PlayStation 2 game is finding one
November 6, 2000
'SSX': Snowboarding perfection
October 26, 2000
'Smuggler's Run' is mission-based motor mayhem
October 26, 2000
Review: Midnight Club: Street Racing
October 26, 2000
Review: TimeSplitters
October 26, 2000

Playstation2
SSX
Smuggler's Run
Street Fighter EX3
Sky Odyssey

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