Xbox Solution:

Get into the Action!

We have been taking a look at the great games available on the Xbox Live® Arcade service. Last time Christina and Jason took a look at the puzzle games that are currently available. This time we take a look at the action games and the two newest games available to download.

Puzzle games help you use your minds and are more strategic, but action games are faster-paced. The great thing about Xbox Live Arcade on Xbox 360™ is that you can choose from a variety of games with ease.

Action games may not appear to force you to think like a puzzle game would, but there is some strategic thinking involved. The titles we are going to look at involve more than just blasting away the enemies. Sure, they are great for releasing frustrations and offer excitement, but if you really want to do well playing the action genre you need to also rely on thinking and not just your trigger finger.

Mutant Storm Reloaded
The most enhanced game graphically on Xbox 360 right now offers 89 mind-blowing levels. There are two goals to beating Mutant Storm Reloaded. Not only can you beat all 89 levels in both game modes, but you will also want to go from a white belt to a black belt rating. Mutant Storm Reloaded uses a unique scoring system—there are the levels, but you will also need to watch the multiplier meter and the belt ranking meter. Do this all while trying to beat an assortment of enemies, ranging from simple flying bugs to multiple cannons and high tech weapons.

Frantic action in beautiful hi-def.

As the game progresses so will the enemies, as they become more advanced and high tech looking. It's not easy even with bonus weapons and shields. The enemies move faster and, to make things even harder, there is a timer for each level. The real catch is that as you rank up or earn a new belt, the less time you have for each level. Mutant offers a single-player game and a co-op tally mode. It's a great game for those who love high-tech futuristic shooters.

Sure it's important to be fast at shooting the enemies, but you need to know when you use a smart bomb and how to avoid being hit. You will also need to learn how to use each level's layout to your advantage. Do you have what it takes to reach level 89 and reach a black belt status? For an added treat, the game uses great high-definition graphics and awesome sound effects. This is certainly the best overall action game so far available in the arcade.

Marble Blast Ultra
At first glance, many will wonder how Marble Blast Ultra falls into the action game category. It reminds older gamers of the hit arcade game Marble Madness. Part action game and part puzzle, it offers a single-player mode with 30 levels. Here is where this one really becomes a true action game. Yes, you need to use your mind and think of the right way to reach the end of each level. Throw in all the power-ups like ultra blast, boost, and high jumps and the game shows why it's in the action category.

Part action, part puzzle, all marble.

Turn the marble into a flying marble to reach hidden Easter eggs and the gems that appear. The ten multiplayer levels will test your skills at using all of the power ups and knowledge of each level as you compete against up to seven other players to grab the most gems without falling off the playing field. It gets a bit nasty because you can blast the other players out of the way (and possibly off the field) to reach the gems first.

A great multi-player mode makes Marble Blast one of the most fast-paced and addictive arcade games around. Each map has its own look and strategy thrown in. The addition of the multi-player angle has turned it into a favorite for many fans of the arcade games. If you're into competition and fast-paced all-out war while having to think, this one is sure to be a favorite.

Crystal Quest
A remake of the 1987 arcade classic, Crystal Quest has been added to the arcade with enhanced graphics and sound. A shooter that looks simple at first, Crystal Quest shows it's a true action title. Offering 60 levels, multiple enemies, and mystery bonuses, it will certainly be a challenge as you collect the gems and smart bombs while facing enemies that throw more obstacles in your way.

Just shoot everything.

You need fast reflexes and a steady hand to get though each level while trying to catch special bonus without destroying them. Learning how to make the mega gems appear and reach them while avoiding the enemy's fire will challenge anyone.

While not the most advanced game graphically, it is fast-paced, offers plenty of replay value, and is one of the cheaper games (but worth every penny). Part of the challenge is the achievements and finding how to earn them. Crystal Quest has great sound effects and it's another futuristic theme title that is addictive for gamers of all ages.

Feeling Stressed? Game On!
We all have those days were things go wrong or stress builds up either at work or at school. Action games provide a healthy and safe way of releasing those stresses and also entertain you at the same time.

Everyone has their own favorite game, we've picked a few that have impressed us. We know that more great action games are slated for release this month and we'll be back with another look at those in the near future. For now take a look and download the free playable demos of the three we mentioned—you're sure to find one that you want to keep on playing. The prices range from 400 to 800 Microsoft Points for each game and are certainly worth it.

Article by Rich Reed, Xbox Solution