The term "On Rails" in game reviews?

When I was younger I used to collect Video Game magazines (mostly Playstation) which would review games like they do. Some of the magazines have described some games as being "On Rails" - I have no idea what that is (I assume it's something bad?) does anyone know? :confused:

By the way, I haven't seen the term used during actual reviews, but the "buyers guide" at the end of the mags, where they have the game's name, a score, and a comment.

you know how in the arcade when you play games like Time Crisis or House of the Dead, and you can't move freely, but move to a location, kill everything, then move to the next. That's considered an "on rails" game because you follow one direct path and have no control over it.

THE JACKEL

Oh thoes, I know what you mean. Thank you for answering me.:)