You'd have to be a real curmudgeon not to raise at least a smile at the numerous and sometimes overwhelming jokes and comedy interludes that crop up during play. Your units declare that they "like you" when you select them, the music is outlandish, the visuals are colorful and, of course, you can call upon the support of a 40ft tall Stalin to help you crush your Imperialist alien foes under his Communist feet. Stalin vs Martians really should be rubbish – and it is – but for 30 minutes or so, you'll be having a strange amount of fun.
Robert Grosso writes, "Plumbers Don't Wear Ties is getting a re-release. For some reason. I don't get it either, but here is an excuse to mention six terrible games in a list."
BeefJack: "In 2009, a bizarre, often dreadful but strangely endearing strategy game called STALIN VS. MARTIANS caused a minor stir. Then it vanished from sale, almost immediately. What happened to the game, and a promised polished-up re-release? We speak to developer Alexander Shcherbakov to find out…"
The 2009 GameStooge Awards continue with the fifth part of the Awards – the worst games of 2009, as well as the best mobile games.
Best iPhone Game: Zen Bound
Best Mobile Game: Townsmen 6: Revolution
Biggest Disappointment: The Conduit
Most Dead on Arrival: Leisure Suit Larry: Box Office Bust
Worst Digital Game: NBA Unrivaled
Worst Game: Terminator Salvation
