CNet’s review of the major mapping sites — part of an ongoing comparative look at “Web 2.0”-style web applications — concludes that Google Maps has been surpassed by Yahoo! and Microsoft in terms of features, and gives Yahoo! the nod for best overall mapping service. From the review: “But which mapping service makes the most of the dynamic Web? While we found Yahoo to be the most practical directions finder — and Google the best worldwide tour guide — Microsoft’s integration of maps with its other Windows Live tools intrigued us.” Via Windows Live Local/Virtual Earth.

Meanwhile, our friend Catholicgauze, following in Paul’s footsteps (see previous entry), is embarking on his own multipart review of the online mapping sites, and not just the top sites — 10 sites in all will be tested.

See previous entries: Online Mapping Sites Compared Again; TechCrunch Compares Mapping Services; Schuyler Looks at the APIs; Reviewing Online Map Services; Comparing Online Mapping Services.