State of Emergency - PlayStation 2

In State of Emergency, you play as one of five selectable characters that's going up against the Corporation--a tyrannical group that has the city in an iron grip. The city is in a state of disarray and the citizens are rebelling. Amazingly, up to 250 characters can riot onscreen at once. It's shocking that the developers were able to render so many moving characters while keeping a smooth frame rate. Basic gameplay consists of picking up numerous weapons and objects to cause as much damage as humanly possible. Providing context to the mindless violence are the revolution and chaos modes. The former is the game's story mode and features more than 175 missions, while the latter is a single-session mode with a few variations.

For the most part, the game is an enjoyable cacophony of senseless violence, but there are some flaws. Although the revolution mode boasts an impressive number of missions, they do get repetitive. The game screams for a multiplayer mode, but it's strictly one player. In spite of these flaws, the game remains addictive and fun. It bears repeating that gamers looking for another GTA III will not find it here: this game provides an arcadelike experience that's excellent, but in a very different way. Parents should note that this game carries a Mature rating for its blood, violence, and gore. --Raymond M. Padilla

Pros: Amazing number of characters onscreen simultaneously Simple beat-'em-up gameplay A vast arsenal with which to inflict damage Cons: Missions get repetitive No multiplayer mode Bland soundtrack

A shadowy corporation has seized control of your country. The people have taken to the streets in protest. A state of emergency has been declared… now it's time for you to fight for your freedom. Try to topple the corporation or simply cause complete mayhem. Prepare for chaos as hundreds of people fill the screen—each citizen reacts differently to events. Deep selection of hand-to-hand fighting moves and tons of weapons are at your disposal. Even pick up items off the street and use them to fight your oppressors.