Looking unlike anything else, LittleBigPlanet is a co-operative physics-based puzzle game in which you and friends team up to get past elegantly designed obstacles. With create-your-own a big part of it, this looks like one of the most exciting games of 2008.

Spore
PC

Taking over evolution of a species from protozoan to predator, Spore's absurdly ambitious, galaxy-spanning, massively multiplayer intention is for you to grow beasts that compete with other players' creations in an online universe red in tooth, claw and tentacle.

Gran Turismo 5
PlayStation 3

Even though Gran Turismo games are predictable in every way, their perfection sets them apart from every other racing game. This outing has the strangely exciting addition of the Top Gear test track.

Advance Wars: Dark Conflict
Nintendo DS

With its immaculately polished turn-based tank, infantry, air force and naval battles, Advance Wars has one of the most perfect sets of rules since chess was invented. This episode promises a more strategic approach.

Mario Kart
Nintendo Wii

The daddy of cartoon go-kart racers and provider of the finest, silliest multiplayer driving available is due to emerge on the Wii, this time with an emphasis on internet-based competition. Expect the return of red shells and banana skins, alongside a peculiar steering wheel accessory.

Samba de Amigo
Nintendo Wii

Gamers of a certain vintage will have golden memories of Samba de Amiga, a classic rhythm action game originally in arcades and on Sega's Dreamcast that featured large plastic maracas. Even with the Wii-remote and nunchuk substituting, this is promising.

Alan Wake
PC, Xbox 360

Putting you in the quaking boots of a writer whose inventions begin springing eerily to life, this detailed and disturbing-looking, free-roaming horror game is already a year overdue - hopefully a hint that the finished product will be one of particular refinement and excellence. The wait is almost over.

Echochrome
PSP

Another machine starved of proper software, PSP at last gets another game to sit next to Loco Roco as a genuine innovation. Echochrome's MC Escher-style mazes need to be traversed by a mannequin whose progress you assist by twisting the maze to guide them across.

Star Wars: The Force Unleashed
Nintendo Wii

It's also due on other formats, but since the first time the Wii-remote was demonstrated it's been an inevitability that you would one day get the opportunity to use it to wield a lightsaber. That day is nearly upon us and is a matter of considerable excitement amongst Star Wars fans of both varieties: rabid and fanatical.

Metal Gear Solid 4
PlayStation 3

Another blockbuster grade sequel that demands attention is the return of Hideo Kojima's ponderous, pretentious and entirely lovable creation, Solid Snake, for more sneaking and gadget action. Don't be surprised to see Snake save the world from giant robots commanded by eye patch-wearing despots.