The best software of 2009

Microsoft Windows 7
The new edition of Windows makes up for the shortcomings of its predecessor, Vista. It is even able to run on some older and cheaper computers that did not work well with Vista, and it’s available at a decent discount.
Price: £150
Click to read more: www.computeractive.co.uk/2250854

The Beatles: Rock Band
Play along with John, Paul, George and Ringo, in your living room. The Beatles have finally come to the console screen. The stunning introductory sequence, with a medley of Beatles songs, is spectacular in itself.
Price: £40
Click to read more: www.computeractive.co.uk/2250972

Norton Internet Security 2010
This powerful and efficient anti-virus program is not particularly expensive and offers prompt protection from new viruses, while performance has improved from that of previous versions.
Price: £50
Click to read more: www.computeractive.co.uk/2252589

DCS KA-50 Black Shark
Dedicated helicopter simulators are not common and Black Shark is an attractive one, even if you are not bothered about the combat element. Add in combat and there is enough here to keep the most enthusiastic simulator fan happy for a long time.
Price: £35
Click to read more: www.computeractive.co.uk/2239378

Corel Videostudio X2 Pro Ultimate
Corel Videostudio X2 Pro Ultimate has some new additions and a solid foundation makes it a great product.
Price: £67
Click to read more: www.computeractive.co.uk/2245807

Batman Arkham Asylum
There is no multiplayer but, apart from that, Arkham Asylum is something of a happy anomaly; a varied, enjoyable superhero game with high-production values and a cracking story to boot.
Price: £35
Click to read more: www.computeractive.co.uk/2251452