Monster Madness: Battle for Suburbia

Even the ability to transform into a monstrous alter ego (werewolf, vampire, etc.) and a variety of weapons couldn't save a solo run through Monster Madness. But then, something happens: another person jumps on, and fun starts to appear. Throwing a friend or three in for co-op, things get a little clearer. Once you get into the Xbox Live play, it all makes so much more sense. The goofy weapons become hot commodities and even the vehicles and turrets perform better under the circumstances.

Above: This summer... you will believe a rocket-mounted, swan-shaped paddle boat can strafe on water

It's still far from perfect, but everything we didn't care for in single player came together as a damn decent online experience. Free-for-all Deathmatches, as well as Capture the Flag and King of the Hill were bite sized doses of madcap hilarity. And Dojo sessions, where four players can square off against wave after wave of mutant hellbeasts, is challenging, fun and fosters camaraderie and teamwork just as much as any other super serious shooter out there.

We didn't care much for Monster Hunter mode, where every human player tries to fight of a plague of monstrous transformations to literally be the last man standing, but plenty of people online seemed to love it.