TOP PICK
Guitar Hero: Metallica
(Activision)
The recent Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees are totally tuned
into the hit videogame franchise (for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and
Wii). So turn it up loud and get ready to shred something fierce on
more than 30 Metallica songs, plus a couple of dozen others by
likeminded artists. Best of all, hook up your World Tour drums
and mic for a jam session with pals.
VIDEOGAME
The Godfather II
(EA)
This follow-up (for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC) brings
Michael Corleone and family into Scarface territory — Miami. As
head of a crime syndicate, you’re counted on to make shrewd moves and
kick major ass. Like the movie it’s based on, the game features rich
narrative and plenty of strategizing. But in the end, it’s all about
getting Benjamins … at any cost.
VIDEO
The Matrix 10th Anniversary
Blu-ray Book
(Warner)
One of the best science-fiction movies ever made celebrates its
first decade with a cool new package that crams in tons of extras. The
movie itself looks stunning in hi-def — you can’t help but think
that maybe the Wachowski brothers knew Blu-ray was on the horizon. The
extras include everything from various commentary tracks to
white-rabbit-following features.
TV
Iron Man: Armored Adventures
(Nicktoons)
Last year’s live-action movie was a surprise hit. This new animated
series (premiering at 7 p.m. Friday) builds on all that restless
energy, knocking superhero Tony Stark back to his teen years. That
leaves plenty of Spidey-style moments of juggling power with
irresponsibility. And unlike other recent Marvel toons, this one looks
great.
VIDEO
Never Say Never Again
Collector’s Edition
(Twentieth Century Fox)
This 1983 James Bond adventure features Sean Connery in his last
performance as the superspy. It’s also his first time in Bond’s tux in
a dozen years. Plus, it’s a remake of Thunderball that’s not
considered an official part of the 007 canon. Whew! But it’s still a
thrill, especially in this new Blu-ray set, which includes a smattering
of informative extras.
This article appears in Apr 22-28, 2009.