A chill is in the air and the leaves are starting to change color, which can only mean one thing: it's time to light a fire, put on some cocoa, and snuggle up with the love of your life. I'm referring to your Xbox, of course, and although its pointy corners might not make it the ideal cuddle buddy, it's got plenty of games that can warm your heart as well as your mind. Granted, not all of the titles are as anticipated as a certain first-person juggernaut, but there's sure to be something in here for everyone. So, without further ado, let's take a look at some of this fall's biggest games!



Prince of Persia: Warrior Within
Developer: Ubisoft Montreal | Publisher: Ubisoft
Release Date: November 16

A few years ago everyone thought the Prince of Persia series was dead, but Ubisoft Montreal proved just how wrong that was with Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time. The Sands of Time successfully translated the classic series into a fun 3D adventure. Who'd have thunk?

Now Ubi is back at bat, with the first sequel to the modern franchise. Prince of Persia: Warrior Within looks to correct the main issues people had with the original game, while assuming a much darker, moodier tone than before. The Prince of Persia isn't just back -- he's mad.

We're not sure why, though. He should actually be very happy that he's starring in such a great-looking game. The developers have completely retooled the combat system, which should make for more exciting and dynamic fights than ever before. And remember those time-control powers? Now there are no less than 10, and you'll even get to travel through time.

Our Prediction: Ubisoft Montreal struck gold with the first game, and we have no reason to doubt it will follow through with an even better one. Warrior Within is hot.



GoldenEye: Rogue Agent
Developer: EA LA | Publisher: EA
Release Date: November 17

This surprise announcement took gamers by storm earlier in the year. Finally, we are all going to get a pseudo-sequel (at least in name) to Rare's epic and seminal FPS for the Nintendo 64. You assume the role of a disparaged British 00 agent who's gone more than a little off-the-rails. Turning your back on the Queen, her government, and everything that's generally wholesome in the world, you must now team up with the some of the greatest Bond villains of all time. EA's LA studio is promising some excellent-themed FPS action both for single and multiplayer with this one.

Our Prediction: We loving nothing more than getting down and dirty in Fleming's rich spy universe. Bring on the gadgets and the hot Bond girls at once.



Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic II: The Sith Lords
Developer: Obsidian Entertainment | Publisher: LucasArts
Release Date: December 6

The sequel to our Game of the Year for 2003 is on the horizon, although the boys from BioWare have handed the development duties over to Obsidian. Still, you can expect plenty more traditional RPG elements, as well as a new good / evil mechanic that will change your whole party's affiliation depending on your actions. As one of the last remaining Jedis in the universe, you're tasked with eluding the Sith assassins on your tail and figuring out what happened to all of your brethren. Your trusty lightsaber will be back, and you'll be able to learn some new Force powers, including one that allows you to crush your enemies like an empty beer can.

Our Prediction: It's more of the same, but in the case of KotOR II, that's definitely a good thing!



Conker: Live and Reloaded
Developer: Rare | Publisher: Microsoft
Release Date: December 7

The most obnoxious rodent ever created is coming back -- and this time, he's not going to be ignored. Rare's upcoming reworking of the massively underappreciated Nintendo 64 title is all set to blow Xbox gamers away with both its online carnage and its filthy sense of humor. Live and Reloaded features the entire single-player version of Bad Fur Day (resplendent with new gorgeous visuals) and a veritable miasma of juicy and parent-repelling Xbox Live gameplay. Take the streets of Conker's world armed to the teeth and prepared to slaughter those evil Tediz.

Our Prediction: With more potty mouthed dialogue than ever before, this one'll have you peeing your pants with laughter. Or disgust. Take your pick.



MechAssault 2: Lone Wolf
Developer: Day 1 | Publisher: Microsoft
Release Date: December 28

While battling with giant robots might not be everybody's "thing," making a sequel for one of the original Xbox Live hits was a no-brainer. Rather than simply throwing in some new content, however, the developers at Day 1 decided to radically change the core gameplay. You'll now be able to pilot a wide variety of vehicles, including ground tanks and vertical takeoff and landing crafts. Thanks to a reworked battle armor element, you can now climb the sides of buildings and even hijack enemy mechs! With the ability to take someone out of their mech before stepping on them, online play is sure to get even crazier than ever.

Our Prediction: Gearheads and newbies alike are going to flock to Live for some heavy metal action.



Editor's Note: Come back tomorrow when we wade through the best games coming for GameCube.