SSX Blur (Wii)

SSX BLUR for the Nintendo Wii is the latest in the best-selling franchise, and the first that changes how the game is played, thanks to the Wii's wireless and motion-sensing remotes to control the action. One of your hands guides your daredevil down the mountain with the Nunchuck controller while the other hand on the Wii remote lets you create a seemingly unlimited number of aerial maneuvers by twisting and turning it in multiple directions. Think of it as painting shapes on a 3-D canvas and the effects are seen immediately onscreen, be it flips, spins, fancy hand-plants, and other tricks to add to your rising "groove" meter. Max out your meter for faster speeds and bigger air.

While the colorful graphics aren't revolutionary, controlling the boarders or skiers feels intuitive and rewarding, plus the rocking soundtrack brings a lot to the party. In fact, the music is dynamic -- the tunes intensify the better you perform. Wii Blur features a dozen tracks spread out over three unique peaks. If you don't want to partake in the various tournaments and other challenges, simply carve yourself a path from top to bottom to practice your moves.

SSX characters from past games are back again -- including Mac, Psymon, and Kaori -- along with two new faces. Add unlockable content and multiple game modes, including a deep career mode and a multiplayer option (on the same TV), and you've got yourself another downhill classic.