Multiplayer gaming is big business. Call of Duty, World Of Warcraft and StarCraft have each mastered their own spin on competitive gaming . From the pick-up-and-play frolics of a cartoon racer, to the ceaseless dedication required to master an epic MMO, gamesTM has compiled the best multiplayer experiences gaming has to offer.

With Modern Warfare 2’s record-breaking launch at the end of last year and Wii Sports smashing sales barriers the world over, the industry would appear to be in rude health. But as consumers continue to count their pennies while the economy staggers to its feet, are publishers losing out by going for blockbuster or budget every time? games™ analyses whether there’s wealth to be found in the space in between.

2009 was one of the greatest years of gaming thus far, surpassing even the giddy highs of 2008. Join us as we take an alternative look at the games that defined last year, with an eclectic selection of titles that epitomise the diversity and variety we’re now seeing in the medium.