Amazon.com
With a fighting mode, four mini-games, and a stand-alone role-playing game (RPG), Ehrgeiz is essentially six games for the price of one. First, duke it out as one of 10 playable characters (3 of which are from the popular RPG Final Fantasy VII) in hand-to-hand and weapons-based combat. There are 11 different fighting environments to tackle, including a moving train and a hovering airship. Ehrgeiz scores points for diversity. The arsenal of warriors is comprised of various ages, nationalities, and sexes--all of whom are eager to win the ultimate fighting championship. The prize is a mysterious weapon (the strangely dubbed Ehrgeiz). There are a gazillion moves to memorize, and the fluid movement and fantastic secret weapons provide great eye candy.

In addition to fighting, players will also encounter mini-games, such as the foot race "Battle Beach" and strategy game "Battle Panel" (think Othello). This game also contains several elements that will be instantly familiar to RPG fans. Ehrgeiz may not satisfy gamers who want a dedicated RPG or fighting game, but it does offer a diverse range of gameplay for the casual gamer with a limited attention span. --Carrie Bell

Pros:

• Fighter movement animation is impressive
• Final Fantasy connection will appeal to RPG fans
• Diverse gameplay

• Numerous special moves impose a steep learning curve, and demand a good memory