A newcomer's guide to sandbox games

Sandbox games are nothing new to the industry, but many non-gamers may not be familiar with the style or the games that use it. So, for all of you out there that are unfamiliar, welcome. Here's what you should expect.

Late in the game review: Dead Rising 2

Game title: Dead Rising 2
Consoles: PS3, Xbox 360, PC
Developer: Capcom
Release date: September 24, 2010 (PS3 and Xbox 360), September 28, 2010 (PC)

Flashback: Skate 3 raises the bone-cracking bar

The series that put Tony Hawk to shame is back to bring the pain. Skate 3 takes the players to Port Carverton, the ultimate skating utopia. This city has ramps and rails everywhere, and since it's a utopia, security guards won't be chasing you down and knocking you around this time.

Late in the game review: Assassin's Creed: Revelations

Game title: Assassin's Creed: Revelations
Consoles: PS3, Xbox 360, PC
Developer: Ubisoft
Release Date: November 15, 2011