The skinny:
The Redemption serves as an extension of Rise of the Machines, only it doesn't leave you feeling cheated and empty inside after purchasing it. You take the reins of Ah-nuld once again, kicking ass and taking names from the present day to 2032. The goal, as in the movies, is to protect John Connor from Skynet, the impending nuclear holocaust and the constant henpecking awaiting him at the hands of his new girlfriend, Kate Brewster. Everything's all rose petals and sunshine, but once you put a ring on that finger, the game changes. You can kiss blow jobs and long nights out carousing with your pet Terminator buddy goodbye.

Tantalizing tidbit:
The game combines equal parts shooting, hand-to-hand and driving combat. While the hand-to-hand stuff won't win any awards, the deep selection of vehicles (from pickup trucks to high-tech battle tanks) and the frenetic pace of the game more than make up for it. The Redemption lives up to its name and atones for the 11th deadly sin, mediocrity.

Buy, rent or run away screaming:
Atari wouldn't release a title that competes with its predecessor within a 12-month span if it wasn't worth purchasing. Get a little Governator in your life.