One of the best features of Ketsui: Death Label is the multiplayer capability, which allows you and a friend to tackle this title's insane levels together. Ketsui Death Label also has a very accurate control scheme, and shooter fans will be delighted to know that the animation is very fast and the DS version does not lose any of the original's detail or design.

Import Value: High - Ketsui: Death Label is very easy to import because of the Nintendo DS' region-free nature. Also, playing the game should be relatively easy, as there is only minimal dialogue and few menus.

Initial D is a long-running manga series about street racing that has proved to be quite popular in Japan. With more than 500 chapters so far, it certainly has staying power as a manga series, but it has also become quite popular as a game series. The Initial D series of games have primarily been arcade in nature, and this title is an almost perfect replication of the Initial D Arcade Stage 4 title.

Initial D is definitely the most approachable of all the games released this year, simply because it has a very easygoing arcade feel to it but with plenty of enhancements that fans of the series that inspired it are sure to appreciate.

In addition to its approachable style, Initial D: Extreme Stage is highly customizable and has many car, driver, and track options. There are 23 cars, 28 tracks, and 26 characters from the manga to race with, resulting in endless race possibilities. The game brings all of these elements to life with gorgeous 1080p graphics that take on a look similar to this year's Naruto: Ultimate Storm.

However, what sets this title apart from other racing titles (as well as other games on this list) is the online play. Initial D: Extreme stage has many online modes that you can play from anywhere, thanks to the PS3's region-free status. There are also leaderboards that allow you to post your name and score.

Import Value: High This title is one of the few that you can play online, and it doesn't hurt that Initial D is one of the better driving series out there, despite having cars and characters originally from a manga series.

Although many Japanese titles generally make their way to the United States, most of these games will never see a US release due to licensing issues or a perceived lack of interest. But, if you are willing to jump through a few hoops, these ones are widely available in Japan, and they represent some of the best region-exclusive titles this year. Whether you are a shooter fan, an anime fan, or love platforming, there's definitely a Japanese game for you this year!

By Amanda L. Kondolojy
CCC Staff Contributor