‘SUPER MARIO GALAXY’

‘SUPER MARIO GALAXY’

(Nintendo) for Wii

Genre: Adventure

Rating: E

Grade: A

When the Wii first started generating insane amounts of buzz, many industry types thought it would die out. But Nintendo had other plans, and its timely holiday release of “Super Mario Galaxy” — by far one of the top five games of the year — should definitely keep the Wii juggernaut continuing.

From the moment the Princess is captured (classic “Mario” go-to story line), the game immerses you like no other.

It’s not just because of how amazing the level design is, or how varied it is, or the strength of the music and the natural feel of the game play. It’s that these factors are all achieved in perhaps the most recognizable franchise in gaming.

The game takes place in several galaxies and turns everything on its head by giving you tons of planets to explore. Instead of entire levels being themed, you have mini-levels all over the place with unique features and designs that keep you constantly engaged.

The controls are amazing and feel right at home with the game play. Don’t believe me? My better half has avoided video games like the plague, but has always had a soft spot for “Mario” games. It took about 30 seconds for her to grab the Wii remote and start guiding Mario all over the place, collecting Star Bits and spinning him from one planet to the next.

Wait until you start solving puzzles with the help of gravity, or learn how a bee costume or planets designed like golf courses make sense. In any other game it would be a confusing mishmash, but in a “Mario” universe it is art.

In a year of “Call of Duty,” “Halo,” “Guitar Hero,” “Bioshock,” “Rockband” and many others — “Mario” competes.

When you go to the store begging to get your hands on a Wii, don’t forget to get “Super Mario Galaxy,” too.

‘ASSASSIN’S CREED’

(Ubisoft) for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3

Genre: Adventure

Rating: M

Grade: B+

Some of the best games earn their high rating because they weave a tight narrative and provide a variance in game play that is simply not matched by the competition. “Assassin’s Creed,” with few flaws to speak of, is one of these games. Its release was delayed a couple times, but it feels polished and was well worth the wait.

As the assassin Altair, you’ll traverse the massive and open cities of Jerusalem, Damascus and Acre. You can climb just about any wall or tower, and everything opens up, from stunning cityscape vistas to new strategies of attack. Nothing is forced, and you are given total freedom to improvise.

The game takes place mainly during the 12th century in the Holy Land — right smack during the Crusades. This time period doesn’t get a lot of attention in gaming, but should, because the industry loves wars, urban combat, religious strife and political intrigue.

Success is best achieved by stealth. Kill silently and you’ll avoid an onslaught of guards. Blend in with the crowds and you can best escape capture. Scale buildings to best showcase your athletic prowess and avoid being outnumbered in fights. If you must do battle, knives to throw and your sword are your best friends.

You alternately play as Desmond, a present-day bartender who has been detained by a shady scientist type. The Altair sequences are actually Desmond’s memories that you are playing out. It’s confusing for a while, but makes sense as you progress. The story leaves the door open for a sequel, which stinks because too many games use this cop-out instead of rewarding you with a finished story.

The stunning visuals that add the right depth to the story and fluid game play make “Assassin’s Creed” a must-own for Xbox 360 and PS3 owners.

Chris Campbell, Scripps Howard