Ryan Mostardo

"But I don't want to be a pirate!"

CES 2012: Microsoft Announces Kinect for Window

 Posted by  No Responses »
Jan 102012
 

It was rumored after the Kinect’s release that Microsoft was looking to port the motion capture device to the PC.  Now that rumor has become true with Microsoft announcing Kinect for Windows at this year’s CES conference.

The device is set to hit stores on February 1.  Not only will the Kinect have functionality for some PC games, it will also have a communication usage for it.  Several companies like Toyota and Boeing have confirmed that they will utilize Kinect for Windows within their offices.  According to Microsoft’s Harry Hryb, Kinect for Windows, “will only work on computers running the SDK software”.

The bad news, Microsoft confirmed that the device will cost consumers $250; $100 more than the Kinect for Xbox 360.  Microsoft commented on the high price for Kinect for Windows.

“The ability to sell Kinect for Xbox 360 at its current price point is in large part subsidized by consumers buying a number of Kinect games, subscribing to Xbox LIVE, and making other transactions associated with the Xbox 360 ecosystem, ” said the Kinect to Windows Team.

“In addition, the Kinect for Xbox 360 was built for and tested with the Xbox 360 console only, which is why it is not licensed for general commercial use, supported or under warranty when used on any other platform.”

I think I’ll just stick to Kinect for Xbox 360, and save the extra $250

Source: Kotaku

 

Final Fantasy XIII-2 Demo Announced and Dated

 Posted by  No Responses »
Jan 062012
 

With the full release of Final Fantasy XIII-2 hitting stores next month, Square Enix is kind enough to provide gamers with a free trial of the much anticipated title.

A demo will be available for both the Xbox 360 and Playstation 3.  Gamers can find the trial on the Xbox Live Marketplace on January 11, 2012, while the Playstation version will be available a day earlier on January 10.  No word yet on the size of both demos, but I’m sure it’s going to be one large file.

Final Fantasy XIII-2 is set to be released on January 30 in NA and February 2 in Europe.  The title was released on December 30 in Japan and has so far gained outstanding reviews from Japanese publications.

Source: EGT

Star Wars: The Old Republic Tops 350,000 Users Since Release

 Posted by  No Responses »
Jan 042012
 

Bioware’s MMORPG Star Wars: The Old Republic has something to pat itself on the back for.  According to the gaming analysts, the game has reached 350,000 concurrent users since its release late last month.

The figure itself only represents that of players in Europe and North America.  Analysts also stated that there are over 1 million online users already registered for the title.

“We view the early success of Star Wars as an indication of a healthy MMO market,” said Colin Sebastian, Baird Equity Research analyst. “While there is likely some shifting of usage from World of Warcraft, we see a viable market for multiple million-user MMOs in the US and Europe. With more than 1 million registered online users, we see roughly one-third representing peak concurrent usage.”

Sebastian does believe that the title will sell around 3 million copies by the end of March 2012, but disagrees that it will have 1.5-2 million subscribers by the end of 2012.

Source: Gamespot

Rumor: E-Reader Feature Added to Wii U

 Posted by  No Responses »
Jan 032012
 

We all know that the anticipated Nintendo Wii U can do a handful of things, but according to one source, the system will function as an E-Reader as well.

According to one software developer, who was approached by Nintendo, the company is looking to add iOS software to the Wii U.  The source states that Nintendo is researching ways to implement books, magazines, comics, instruction manuals, and even strategy guides.  Not only is the company looking to add the feature to the Wii U, but also as an application for the 3DS.

Nintendo has not released any statements about the rumor, so gamers will have to wait and see what happens with that.  The Wii U is set to have a second showing come January at the Consumer Electronics Show.

Source: Destructoid

 

Kojima’s “Project Ogre” to be Open-World Style

 Posted by  No Responses »
Dec 212011
 

Hideo Kojima’s next project entitled “Project Ogre” is set to veer away from a more linear gameplay style in favor of an open world type environment.

In an interview with CNN, Kojima explained that he would prefer to “make something very free” than something more cinematic like the “Metal Gear Solid” titles.  According to the report, Kojima wants a game with “a very open entrance” for players to explore.

In the interview, Kojima detailed the game stating that it is, “set in a very open world where players can wander around and explore freely. Players should still be able to find new sights and worthwhile adventures after having played the game for as many as 100 hours.”

More details of the game include that it will be developed with a new graphic engine called the Fox Engine that was created by Kojima’s team as well as the game rumored to take place around the Middle East region (based on previously released screenshots).

I wonder what crazy Kojima has up his sleeves this time around?

Source: VG247

Battlefield 2143 Teased in Battlefield 3, Possible Sequel?

 Posted by  No Responses »
Dec 192011
 

For those who downloaded the Back to Karkland expansion pack for Battlefield 3, you’re in for a treat.  On the Wake Island map, developers placed the number “2143″ on a set of boxes, possibly hinting at a sequel in the near future.

The number relates to the outstanding futuristic spin off game of the Battlefield series, Battlefield 2142.  Though this could be a slight homage to Battlefield 2142, this would not be the first time Dice has done this.  In Battlefield 2, the developer hinted at a Battlefield 2142 title after placing the number “2142″ on several boxes in Battlefield 2′s map packs.

Several Dice developers have stated in interviews their fondness with Battlefield 2142 as well as numerous veteran Battlefield gamers who continue to play the game since its release in 2006.

No word yet from Dice or EA at this time, but hopefully something will go on record soon.  Even if it is just a DLC with a few extra maps, developing anything related to 2142 including the ever so popular Titan mode would make many gamers very happy, including myself.

Source: VG247

My 2012 Industry Predictions

 Posted by  1 Response »
Dec 162011
 

As 2011 comes to close and 2012 welcomes gamers with open arms, I must say this year in general was kind of a bore for gaming.  We got a handful of sequels with only a few of them being quite notable, a new Nintendo system that still has gamers in confusion on what it really is, and Xbox Live getting a shitty new dashboard.  Every upcoming new year, I always get a hunch that the next year is going to be a landmark one for gaming.  Even though my record is pretty awful in that assumption,  I have a feeling (the good kind) 2012 will be one to remember in gaming.  Here are some of my bold predictions on what’s to come for the industry in 2012.

-Microsoft to Announce New Console:  This is one I truly believe will happen in 2012.  With the company rumored to be sending next gen developer kits to designers, this is a fairly good sign that that Microsoft has something in the works.  Nintendo announced their new system at E3 2011, so it would be in the company’s best interest to follow in Nintendo’s track to get their start in gaming’s next generation.  The real question here is what to expect from Microsoft concerning a new system.  With Xbox 360 steering away from a sole gaming device to a multimedia platform, will the next Microsoft console be a traditional game system or much more?

-Half Life 3:  When I say Half Life 3, I don’t mean the game being released.  What I mean here is, ANYTHING!  An announcement, a screenshot, a sentence about the much, much anticipated title; anything will do.  Gabe and the team over at Valve have been of course keeping their mouths’ closed about the title.   A few weeks ago,  one Valve employee was seen wearing a Half Life 3 t-shirt at some function.  Can this be the sign gamers have been waiting for, a new Half Life title?  Only 2012 has the answer to that burning question.

-More of the Same Games:  Every year, there seems to be the same old games being released to the public.  You have the first person military shooter in which players fight off against Russia or a Middle Eastern nation.  You have the horror game that instead of thrills and genuine scares come zombies, zombies, and more zombies.  To be frank, I’m tired of seeing the same old copy and paste titles being released by the gaming mill.  Unfortunately, these games sell and the general public enjoy them, and because of that I have a sense gamers will be seeing more of the same come 2012.

-Rise in Independent Games:  In 2011, independent developers launched truly impressive titles that stand as some of the best games of the year.  In 2012, I believe more gamers will come to realize the brilliance and creativity these games hold and begin to gain more of an interest in them.  As I mentioned before with AAA titles being similar depending on their respectable genre, more gamers will grow tired of playing the generic title month after month.  Players will seek a new type of experience in gaming, and I believe that independent games will guide them in doing that.

-Star Wars: The Old Republic Gives World of Warcraft Run for its Money:  My boldest and borderline insane prediction yet.  With the anticipation for the The Old Republic growing and the title being a step forward in the MMO genre in terms of the gameplay, customization, and conversational aspects, this MMO is expected to truly revolutionize the genre.  Based on the anticipation from gamers and the fact that it is Star Wars, I personally believe that The Old Republic will be the one MMO that brings a challenge in terms of fan base against World of Warcraft.  I’m not saying that the title will quickly surpass WoW, but at some point in 2012, The Old Republic will be in the same ranks.  Like I mentioned, it’s a bold prediction, and last time I made this kind of assumption was when Star Trek Online was in development, and look how that game turned out.  If The Old Republic can generate much interest from non-MMO players like myself, than the title will gain popularity unlike anyone had ever imagine it would.

-Microsoft and Nintendo Play the Old Switch-A-Roo: Nintendo has always aimed at the casual gamer audience while Microsoft tends to focus more on the core/hardcore gamer.  However, in 2011, gamers saw a slight movement between both ends of each company’s spectrum.  Now, Nintendo is looking to snag that core gamer audience with their Wii U and attempt to produce more mature titles in the near future.  Microsoft, on the other hand, still continues to reach the core market, but with a strong focus on Kinect and other “casual” gamer oriented applications through Xbox Live, the company is now looking to capture the recreational gamer.  Of course, the two will continue to do what they’re doing, so no worries there.

-Sony Focuses on Playstation 3, Continues to Apologize:  In 2012, I predict that Sony’s going to take a little vacation time after all the hiccups that happened in 2011.  Maybe next year, they’ll focus on optimizing the Playstation 3 with extra security measures, more applications that appeal to a wide range of audiences, etc.  Something tells me that the company is not yet ready to introduce a new system, at least not till the end of 2012.  With no real hint that Sony is in the process of creating a next generation system, don’t be surprised if the company takes time to more so focus on their current hardware than look towards the future of gaming.  Oh yeah, the countless apologies Sony issues every other week, they’ll keep coming.

-Apocalypse:  Not so much a gaming prediction, but it does affect gaming as a whole.  Yes, in 2012, the world will come to an end.  The Mayans prophesized it thousands of years ago that humanity would be wiped from the face of the Earth.  Fire will reign from the sky, oceans will engulf the earth, and dinosaurs will make a triumphant return for some odd reason.  Because of that, you best spend your time doing what you’ve always wanted to do with gaming before time runs out.  Get a 100% on Grand Theft Auto 4, pull out that Nintendo 64 and play some old school Goldeneye.  Hell, go out and finally buy that Virtual Boy you wanted as a kid.  Come December 2012, everything will be gone, including you.  Though, it’d be pretty embarrassing to go down while playing a Virtual Boy, just saying.

Kojima Reassures Gamers of Future “Authentic Stealth MGS” Title

 Posted by  No Responses »
Dec 132011
 

Last Saturday, a new trailer for Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance was showcased at the VGAs, which brought mixed feedback from gamers.  The trailer showed that Raiden’s adventure will be more action based and less stealthy, which in a sense disappointed some gamers.  Metal Gear Solid fans should not be alarmed however.  Early today, Kojima unofficially confirmed that a sequel to the original Metal Gear Solid series will come in the future.

Speaking via his twitter account, Kojima told fan to wait patiently for the next “authentic stealth MGS” game.

“The sequel coming in the future,” Kojima tweeted.

Though it is not an official confirmation, it is good to know that Kojima is still interested in continuing the stealth action series.  He also mentioned that Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance is a spin off title, and has no connection with the other Metal Gear Solid games.

Source: Destructoid

Rumor: Dead Rising 3 in the Works, Details Noted

 Posted by  No Responses »
Dec 092011
 

When you thought gamers couldn’t enough zombies, the industry throws even more our way.  According to one source, Dead Rising 3 is in the works and the unknown figure was kind enough to share some rumored details.

The anonymous source stated that the game will take place in Los Perdidos, a fictional California town, which has been quarantined by the government after a zombie outbreak.  Players will take on the role as Rick, an auto mechanic who needs to get out of town before the government wipes the location off the map.  Dead Rising 2: Case West villain  Marian Mallon is rumored to be returning in the third installment along with a new antagonist General Hemlock.

Apparently, the game will cover several topics including illegal immigration, which is said to play an intricate part of the story.  The immigration theme involves a group of infected survivors that not only must survive the zombie outbreak, but are forced to keep their infection a secret from the US government.

As of now, Capcom has not commented on the rumor.  I’m sure more will be revealed at tomorrow’s VGA ceremony, but keep checking the site for up to date announcements concerning the title.

Source: Destructoid

Nintendo Shoots Down Miyamoto Partial Retirement Claim

 Posted by  No Responses »
Dec 082011
 

After an interview detailed that Miyamoto was to retire from his current position at Nintendo, the company quickly set the record straight.  According to them, Miyamoto has no plans in retiring anytime soon.

Originally, Wired Magazine had interviewed the famed game designer, in which he stated that he would leave his current position at Nintendo in a few years.  According to him, the team in which he currently leads, that has developed games like The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword and Super Mario 3D Land, are now able to create outstanding titles without him.

“Inside our office, I’ve been recently declaring, ‘I’m going to retire, I’m going to retire.’ I’m not saying that I’m going to retire from game development altogether. What I mean by retiring is, retiring from my current position,” said Miyamoto.

Nintendo released a statement early this morning denying the remarks made by Miyamoto.

“This is absolutely not true.  Please do not be concerned,” Nintendo said in a official statement.

Oddly enough, when Miyamoto did claim that he was to retire, Nintendo’s stock fell 2%. No word yet from Miyamoto concerning Nintendo’s response, but it seems to be he’s quite serious about throwing in the towel after years of hard work at the company.

Source: VG247

 

 

Epic to Announce “Fresh, New” title at 2011 VGAs

 Posted by  No Responses »
Dec 062011
 

Cliff Bleszinski has confirmed that the Epic team and himself have a new title in the works and will reveal it come this weekend at the 2011 VGAs.

According to Bleszinski, the game will be a “fresh” and “new” title that will be developed by Epic’s Cary, North Carolina studio.  The location is responsible for popular games like Gears of War and Unreal Tournament.

“2011 marks the 20th anniversary for Epic as a studio, and while we’ve been busy supporting Gears of War and Infinity Blade, we have something new in store for you,” said Bleszniski.  “It’s an entirely fresh and new experience we’ve been crafting here in our North Carolina studio.”

This would not be the first big announcement studios plan to make at this year’s ceremony.  Bioware plans to announce their new project as well an anticipated Alan Wake reveal and a unknown title called Last of Us.

If you can handle the monstrosity known as the VGAs, the awards show will air on Saturday December 10 at 8 PM Pacific, 5 PM Eastern.

Source: Gamespot

THQ Confirms South Park RPG title

 Posted by  No Responses »
Dec 052011
 


THQ confirmed over the weekend that a new South Park title is currently in the works and will be developed by Obsidian Entertainment (Fallout: New Vegas, Knights of the Old Republic 2).

The title, which is said to have RPG elements to it, will be an open world based game where players take control of a silent protagonist who’s main goal is to protect the town of South Park from villains like Satan and most likely Barbra Streisand.  According to developers, hundreds of characters from the South Park universe will be making an appearance throughout your journey.

Combat wise, the game will be primarily turn based fighting, where players must time their attacks right to effectively hurt the enemy.  Also noted is that South Park creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker wrote the entire script and dialogue for the game.  According to them, the game will be more so a satire of traditional RPG games, poking fun of how epic and ridiculous they can be.

According to THQ, the game will be released in the later half of 2012 with the title being available on the Xbox 360 and Playstation 3.  More details are outlined in this month’s issue of Game Informer, which hit stands last week.

Source: Kotaku

Rumor: New Square Enix Game in the Works, Not Final Fantasy Title

 Posted by  No Responses »
Nov 292011
 

Square Enix may be working on a stand alone RPG after information of an apparent “work in progress” title was leaked

Japanese gaming magazine Famitsu got hold of the leaked information sometime ago.  According to them, the title seems to be aimed at Western RPG players judging by the character design of the protagonist and supporting characters.

The other information gathered states that the title will be an action RPG oriented that will utilize the Unreal Engine.  Also, Ryutaro Ichimura is planned to direct the title, who previously worked on several games in the Dragon Quest series.

According to the article that will be featured next month, Ichimura told reporters that the game has been in development for several years.  At least two were spent traveling the globe for surveying and art design for the game.

As of right now, the game does not have an official title.  Square Enix also has not commented on the apparent game, but Famitsu is a very credible source so let’s hope the rumored game is true.

Source: Kotaku

Rumor: Source Details Kinect 2′s Power

 Posted by  No Responses »
Nov 282011
 

A development source has released several details concerning a Kinect 2 and the groundbreaking features the next motion capture device holds.

Eurogamer reported the rumor stating that the source had confirmed that the Kinect 2 will be bundled with future Xbox consoles.  It will also have more advanced features in the areas of motion sensing and voice capturing.

The source examines the voice capturing and facial recognition more in depth saying that the device will, “lip-read, detect when players are angry, and determine in which direction they are facing. Kinect 2 can track the pitch and volume of player voices and facial characteristics to measure different emotional states.”

Also noted is that the Kinect 2 will not need to be connected via USB to the console, which increases the amount of bandwidth between system and the Kinect and calls for an increase in CCD size.

Over the last several months, rumors have been circulating that Microsoft has a new system in the works and will be making an appearance at next year’s E3 convention.  From employee CV’s indicating work on a new Microsoft console to developers having new-gen kits in their possession, the next console war is already heating up.

Of course, Microsoft has not commented on the rumor at this time.  Keep in mind that Microsoft has not yet formally announced a Kinect 2 as well.

Source: VG247

Kojima on MGS5: “Probably Have to Make It”

 Posted by  No Responses »
Nov 222011
 

After Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, Kojima parted ways with the action series and declared the storyline to be finished.  That’s what he wanted gamers to believe.  Now, the trickster Kojima now says that a Metal Gear Solid 5 is a possibility.

Speaking with Official Playstation Magazine UK, Kojima stated that a Metal Gear Solid 5 will most likely happen, but his involvement in the title would be minimal.

“I think we’ll probably have to make it at some point, but what that will be, we have no idea,” said Kojima.  “As far as my involvement in the project is concerned, [it] probably won’t be as much as it was with MGS1 – maybe I can do just one stage! For MGS1 I made the maps myself, laid out the enemy routes myself, did everything hands-on – that level I can’t do again.”

Kojima said that he tried to put some work at first into Metal Gear Solid 4, but ended up directing the title.  Ultimately, it’s either he takes creative control of an entire game or takes no part in it.

“I intended to take it to a certain point and then hand it off, but that didn’t work, because it’s hard to convey the concept to other people then have them take the reins and carry on and preserve that vision. That’s why it’s easier to have them [the design team] come up with everything from the start and then take it to the end.”

Source: Official Playstation Magazine UK

Big Pokemon Annoucement Teased for Next Month

 Posted by  No Responses »
Nov 212011
 

For those who still enjoy capturing the cute and deadly Pokemon, next month an apparent announcement will be made concerning the series.

According to Japanese publication Jump, the magazine will have exclusive details in December related to a future Pokemon release.  The magazine will reveal the information at its annual Jump Festa event in Tokyo.

“Pokemon makes first appearance at JF!! Surprising information on the show floor,” posted in the magazine, emphasizing the “big surprise.”

The last Pokemon games to hit stores were Pokemon Black and White that were released back in March of this year for the DS.  Jump Festa is scheduled to run on December 17 and 18.

Source: VG247

Future Final Fantasy Titles: RPG to Action RPG?

 Posted by  No Responses »
Nov 162011
 

The turn based mechanics of the Final Fantasy series have always been something the games have prided themselves on throughout the years.  However, that and many other traditional RPG elements may change for future entries.

In an interview with EDGE magazine, Final Fantasy XIII-2 producer Yoshinori Kitase explained that each Final Fantasy title has always brought new gameplay elements to the series.  However, he explained that the next installment may be more action-RPG oriented instead of a traditional RPG.

“I think the nature of the franchise is to present something new each time. In the global market we see many players moving away from games that used turn-based systems toward what you might term an action-RPG,” said Kitase.  “FFXIII and FFXIII-2‘s battle systems have those elements of speed and action that are the key words for us, though that doesn’t necessarily mean we’re going to stick to the same route in our next game.”

According to Kitase, only time will tell what’s in store for the next Final Fantasy game.  As a fan of FFXIII’s battle system, this is indeed the right direction for the series.  Not only is the team catering to avid fans of the series, but the action elements appeal to the average gamer as well.  One thing I do ask for, please include a Japanese dialogue option.  Those English voice-overs were pain inducing to the ears.

Source: Kotaku

Gaming Irresponsibly’s 2011 Black Friday Guide

 Posted by  No Responses »
Nov 162011
 

Black Friday, the one day where normal, upstanding citizens turn into lunatic shoppers bound to score the best deal on various items and defeat anyone that gets in their way.  In 2010, no deaths were recorded, but of course, several shoppers were arrested.  With some of this year’s deals, I predict that shopper injuries will be at its highest so be prepared to fend off any shopper that gets in your way, young or old.  If you are one of the brave souls that risk their lives and safety to snag a nose hair trimmer at half price, here are some of the best video game Black Friday deals for 2011…

Target

Doors Open: Thursday 12:00 AM until Friday 10:00 PM

Likelihood to be Trampled: 4 (Out of 10)

Overview: Target has some good deals overall, but definitely not the best if you are looking to snag the BEST deals.  The chain has some solid deals on fairly recently released games like Battlefield 3, Gears of War 3, Need for Speed: The Run.  Those titles will cost gamers $37.00 when the store opens.  Accessory wise, stores will be carrying a 4GB Xbox 360 for $139.99, Kinect Sensor with Kinect Adventures and Wipeout 2 for $99.00, a 160 GB Playstation 3 bundle with two games and 30 day Playstation Platinum Plus Membership, and a Nintendo 3DS Bundle with Super Mario 3D Land Game for $179.99.  One upside to shopping at Target, you won’t have to deal with the barrage of shoppers as much as the other stores.

Xbox 360

  • Battlefield 3 (Xbox 360)    $37.00
  • Forza Motorsport 4 (Xbox 360)    $27.00
  • Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim for PC (w/ Free $10 Target Gift Card) (PS3, Xbox 360, PC)    $59.99
  • Forza Motorsport 4 (Xbox 360)    $27.00
  • Gears of War III (Xbox 360)    $37.00
  • Dance Central 2 (Xbox 360)    $49.99
  • Kinect Sports: Season 2 (Xbox 360)    $27.00
  • Rayman: Origins for Xbox360/PS3 (w/ Free $10 Target Gift Card)    $59.99
  • Shaun White Skateboarding (Nintendo Wii)    $5.00
  • Sonic and the Secret Rings (Nintendo Wii)    $10.00
  • Xbox 360 4GB Console (early bird)    $139.99
  • XBOX 360 Live 3 Month Gold Card (XBOX 360)    $10.00
  • Xbox 360 Wireless Contoller – Black    $39.00
  • Xbox Kinect Sensor w/ Kinect Adventures (Bonus Wipeout 2 Game)    $99.00

PC

  • Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim for PC (w/ Free $10 Target Gift Card) (PS3, Xbox 360, PC)    $59.99

Playstation 3

  • Madden NFL 12 (PlayStation 3)    $37.00
  • Need for Speed: The Run (PlayStation 3)    $37.00
  • Resistance 3 (PlayStation 3)    $37.00
  • Rayman: Origins for Xbox360/PS3 (w/ Free $10 Target Gift Card)    $59.99
  • PlayStation 3 DualShock 3 Controller – Black    $39.00
  • PS3 160GB Bundle w/ 2 Games & 30-Day Playstation Plus Membership    $199.00

Nintendo Wii/3DS

  • Cars 2 (Nintendo DS)    $15.00
  • Cars Race-O-Rama (Nintendo Wii)    $10.00
  • Disney Epic Mickey (Nintendo Wii)    $15.00
  • Disney Universe (Nintendo Wii)    $27.00
  • Just Dance 3 Target Exclusive for Nintendo Wii ( w/ Free $10 Target Gift Card)    $39.99
  • Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D for Nintendo 3DS (w/ Free $10 Target Gift Card)    $39.99
  • Rayman: Origins for Nintendo Wii (w/ Free $10 Target Gift Card)    $49.99
  • Shaun White Skateboarding (Nintendo Wii)    $5.00
  • Sonic and the Secret Rings (Nintendo Wii)    $10.00
  • Nintendo 3DS Bundle w/ Super Mario 3D Land Game    $179.99
  • Wii Play Motion with Wii Remote Plus Controller (Nintendo Wii)    $39.00

Toy’R’Us

Doors Open: Thursday 9:00 PM until Friday 10:00 PM

Likelihood to be Trampled: 7 (out of 10)

Overview: Toy’R’Us once again brings back their “Buy 1 Get 1 $5” deal that was popular in 2010.  The deal is especially good because it includes newly released titles that are sure to attract all type of gamers.  However, the best deals are for the various consoles and accessories.  Toy’R’Us has slashed prices on many third party controllers and accessories, some as much as 50% off.  Other highlights include a Xbox 360 4GB Kinect Bundle with a $10 gift card for $199 and Playstation 3 160 GB console with two games and a controller for $199.  Be wary though, this is still a toy store so expect unforgiving adults with young children to be in your way.

Buy 1 Get 1 $5

Xbox 360

  • Forza 4
  • Gears of War 3

Xbox 360 + PS3

  • Need For Speed The Run
  • Battlefield 3
  • Rage
  • Madden 12
  • Call of Duty: Black Ops

Playstation 3

  • Unchartered 3 (PS3)

Xbox 360 Accessories

  • Microsoft Xbox 360 4GB Gaming System with Kinect (w/ Free $10 Toys R Us Gift Card)    $199.99
  • Kinect Sensor with Kinect Adventures Game (Xbox 360)    $99.99
  • Xbox Live 3-Month Gold Membership Card    $12.99
  • Wireless Controller for Xbox 360 – Black    $29.99
  • Afterglow Controller for Xbox 360 – Purple    $17.99    (50% OFF)
  • 6 in 1 Expansion Kit for Xbox 360 $19.99    (50% OFF)
  • Ear Force X11 Amplified Headset for Xbox 360    $24.99    (50% OFF)
  • LevelUp Zig Zag Gaming Storage Tower for Xbox 360 – Black    $29.99

Playstation 3 Accessories

  • Sony PS3 160GB Game System Bundle (w/ 2 Bonus Games and PS3 Power A Wired Controller)    $199.99
  • Radium Wireless Controller for Sony PS3 – Black        $20.99
  • LevelUp Icon Gaming Storage Tower for Sony PS3    $29.99

Nintendo Wii/DS Accessories

  • LevelUp Aperture Gaming Storage Tower for Nintendo Wii – Black    $29.99
  • Comfort Grip for Nintendo 3DS – Black    $8.99    (50% OFF)
  • Explorer Starter Kit for Nintendo 3DS – Black    $14.99    (50% OFF)
  • Nintendo 3DS Super Mario Bundle (w/ Mario 3D Land and Free Super Mario Bobblehead Stylus)    $189.99
  • POWER A Pro Pack Mini Plus for Nintendo Wii – Black        $23.99
  • PowerCradle Charger for Nintendo Wii    $9.99    (50% OFF)

Gamestop

Doors Open: Midnight or 5 AM, check Gamestop.com for location details

Likelihood to be Trampled: 5 (out of 10)

Overview: Gamestop is your one stop shop for pretty much anything solely gaming related, so expected hardcore gamers to be camping out in front of the store.  This year, Gamestop has great deals all around with software being the core of the Black Friday deals.  Hundreds of titles have been slashed, both new and used, recently released and those from a while back.  Also listed are Buy One, Get One Free for PC games and Buy Two, Get One Free for Kinect titles.  On a side note, some deals are for Black Friday only, so keep that in mind when shopping (Gamestop’s Black Friday deals last all weekend).  Accessory wise, Gamestop has listed some impressive deals on various Xbox 360, Playstation 3, and Wii bundles.

Video Games Deals

  • 3DS Mario Kit for Nintendo 3DS    $14.99
  • L.A. Noire (PS3/360)    $19.99
  • Battlefield 3 (PS3/360/PC)    $39.99
  • Battlefield Bad Company 2 for Xbox 360 (Black Friday Only)    $9.99
  • Borderlands Game Of The Year for Xbox 360 (Black Friday Only)    $19.99
  • BulletStorm (PS3) (Pre-Owned)    $17.99
  • BulletStorm (Xbox 360) (Pre-Owned)    $17.99
  • Cabela’s Big Game Hunter 2012 with Top Shot Elite (PS3)    $59.99
  • Call of Duty ELITE Premium Membership DLC (PS3) $49.99
  • Call of Duty ELITE Premium Membership DLC (Xbox 360)     $49.99
  • Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 (PS3)     $59.99
  • Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 (Xbox 360)     $59.99
  • Call of Duty: Black Ops (PS3)    $34.99
  • Call of Duty: Black Ops (PS3) (Pre-Owned)    $39.99
  • Call of Duty: Black Ops (Xbox 360)    $34.99
  • Call of Duty: Black Ops (Xbox 360) (Pre-Owned)    $39.99
  • Carnival Island for (PS3)     $39.99
  • Child of Eden (Xbox 360)     $39.99
  • Cooking Mama 4 (Nintendo 3DS)    $19.99
  • Crysis 2 (Xbox 360)    $29.99
  • Dance Central (Xbox 360)    $29.99
  • Dance Central 2 (Xbox 360)    $29.99
  • Dead Rising 2 (Xbox 360)    $19.99
  • Driver: San Francisco (Xbox 360)    $19.99
  • DUALSHOCK 3 Wireless Controller (PS3)    $34.99
  • Duke Nukem Forever (PS3/360)    $9.99
  • Dynasty Warriors 7 (PS3)    $29.99
  • EA Sports Season Ticket Access – 12 Months    $24.99
  • Everybody Dance (PS3)     $39.99
  • Fable III (Xbox 360) (Pre-Owned)    $19.99
  • Family Feud 2012 (Xbox 360)     $39.99
  • Family Game Night 4: The Game Show Edition (Wii)     $39.99
  • FIFA Soccer 12 (PS3/360)    $39.99
  • Forza 4 for Xbox 360 (Black Friday Only)    $39.99
  • Gears of War 3 for Xbox 360 (Black Friday Only)    $39.99
  • Go Vacation (Wii)    $19.99
  • God of War III (PS3)    $14.99
  • Grand Theft Auto IV (PS3/360)    $9.99
  • Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary (Xbox 360)     $39.99
  • Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows for Xbox 360 (Game + DVD)    $54.99
  • Hasbro Family Game Night Fun Pack (Wii)     $49.99
  • Hasbro Family Game Night Fun Pack (Xbox 360)     $49.99
  • Heavy Rain Director’s Cut (PS3)        $14.99
  • History Great Battles Medieval (Xbox 360)    $19.99
  • Hole in the Wall (Xbox 360)         $39.99
  • Homefront (PS3) (Pre-Owned)        $12.99
  • Homefront (PS3) (Pre-Owned)        $19.99
  • Homefront (Xbox 360) (Pre-Owned)    $19.99
  • Hulk Hogan’s Main Event (Xbox 360)    $29.99
  • JASF: Janes Advanced Strike Fighter (PS3/360)    $29.99
  • Just Dance 3 (Xbox 360)     $39.99
  • Just Dance Kids 2 (Xbox 360)     $29.99
  • Kinect Disneyland Adventures (Xbox 360)     $49.99
  • Kinect for Xbox 360 (GameStop Refurbished)    $69.99
  • Kinect Sports (Xbox 360)    $29.99
  • Kinect Sports Season 2 (Xbox 360)    $29.99
  • Kinectimals: Now with Bears (Xbox 360)     $49.99
  • Kirby s Return to Dreamland (Wii)     $49.99
  • Madden NFL 12 (PS3/360)        $39.99
  • Madden NFL 12 Hall of Fame Edition (PS3)    $59.99
  • MAG (PS3)    $14.99
  • MAG (PS3) (Pre-Owned)    $9.99
  • Medal of Honor for Xbox 360 (Black Friday Only)    $9.99
  • Medieval Moves: Deadmund s Quest for PlayStation 3     $39.99
  • Michael Jackson: The Experience (Xbox 360)     $39.99
  • Midnight Club: Los Angeles Complete Edition (Xbox 360)    $9.99
  • Monopoly Collection (Wii)     $39.99
  • MotionSports: Adrenaline (Xbox 360)     $49.99
  • NCAA Football 11 (PS3) (Pre-Owned)    $12.99
  • NCAA Football 11 (Xbox 360) (Pre-Owned)    $12.99
  • NCAA Football 2012 (PS3/360)    $39.99
  • Need for Speed: The Run Limited Edition (PS3/360)    $39.99
  • Nintendo 3DS Aqua Blue     $169.99
  • Nintendo 3DS Cosmo Black     $169.99
  • Nintendo 3DS Flame Red     $169.99
  • Nintendo DS Lite (Pre-Owned)    $79.99
  • Nintendo DSi – Pre-Owned    $99.99
  • Nintendo Wii w/ Wii Remote (Pre-Owned)    $79.99
  • Okamiden (Nintendo DS)    $19.99
  • PC Games – Assorted    B1G1 Free
  • Pokemon Rumble Blast (Nintendo 3DS)     $34.99
  • Portal 2 (Xbox 360)     $29.99
  • PowerUP Heroes (Xbox 360)     $49.99
  • Price is Right: The Decades (Xbox 360)     $39.99
  • Quest for Zhu (Nintendo DS)        $9.99
  • Rage (Xbox 360 or PS3)    $29.99
  • Ratchet & Clank: A Crack in Time (PS3)    $14.99
  • Raving Rabbids: Alive & Kicking (Xbox 360)     $49.99
  • Rayman 3DS (Nintendo 3DS)    $14.99
  • Rayman Origins (Wii)    $29.99
  • Red Faction: Armageddon (PS3) (Pre-Owned)    $29.99
  • Red Faction: Armageddon (Xbox 360) (Pre-Owned)    $29.99
  • Resident Evil 5 (PS3)     $19.99
  • Rise of Nightmares (Xbox 360)     $29.99
  • Rocksmith (PS3)        $49.99
  • Select Kinect Games    B2G1 Free
  • Self Defense (Xbox 360)     $49.99
  • Sims 3 PC Games    B1G1 Free
  • Sonic Generations (Xbox 360)    $29.99
  • Split Second (Xbox 360)    $9.99
  • Squinkies (Nintendo DS)    $9.99
  • Star Fox 64 3D (Nintendo 3DS)     $39.99
  • Star Wars: The Old Republic (PC) $59.99
  • Street Fighter IV (PS3) (Pre-Owned)    $6.99
  • Street Fighter IV (Xbox 360) (Pre-Owned)    $6.99
  • Twister Mania (Xbox 360)    $39.99
  • Uncharted 2: Among Thieves Game of the Year Edition (PS3)    $14.99
  • Universal DS Kit Disney Prince for Nintendo DS    $19.99
  • Universal DS Kit Nightmare Before Christmas for Nintendo DS    $19.99
  • Venetica (Xbox 360)    $9.99
  • Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? (Xbox 360)     $39.99
  • Wipeout the Game (Nintendo DS)    $14.99
  • World of Warcraft Battlechest (Mac/PC)    $9.99
  • World of WarCraft: Cataclysm (PC)    $19.99
  • Your Shape Fitness Evolved (Xbox 360)    $39.99
  • World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King Expansion Pack (Mac/PC)    $19.99

Accessories

  • Xbox 250GB Console Holiday Bundle (w/ Halo Reach & Fable 3)    $299.99
  • Xbox 360 250GB Kinect Holiday Value Bundle    $399.99
  • Xbox 360 4GB Console    $149.99
  • Xbox 360 Afterglow Controller    $29.99
  • Xbox 360 Kinect Sensor Bundle (w/ Gunstringer and Fruit Ninja Kinect)    $109.99
  • Xbox 360 Live 3 Month Gold Card DLC        $12.99
  • Xbox 360 Live Marketplace Points 1600 DLC    $19.99
  • Xbox 360 Play & Charge Kit Black    $19.99
  • Turtle Beach PX3 Wireless Universal Headset    $129.99
  • Sony PlayStation 3 320GB Sports Champions Move Bundle     $349.99
  • PlayStation Move Navigation Controller for PlayStation 3     $29.99
  • PS3 Afterglow Controller     $29.99
  • Playstation 3 160GB System w/ Ratchet&Clank and LittleBigPlanet2 Games    $199.97
  • PlayStation 3 Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception Bundle     $299.99
  • PlayStation Move Motion Controller for PlayStation 3     $49.99
  • PS3 DualShock 3 New Owners Kit    $59.99
  • Wii Bundle with New Super Mario Bros. Wii and a Mario Music CD – Black        $149.99
  • Wii Racing Wheel (Pre-Owned)    $2.49
  • Wii Remote Controller (Pre-Owned)    $14.99
  • Wii USB Charge Station (Wii)    $9.99

 

Best Buy

Doors Open: Midnight till Friday 10 PM

Likelihood to get Trampled: 9 (out of 10)

Overview:  Best Buy has great deals with newly released titles.  Many AAA titles are listed around the $30 mark and even Assassin’s Creed Revelations’ price is slashed.  On top of that, the deals on consoles are some of the best for Black Friday, especially the Xbox 360 $199.99 and the Playstation 3 bundle.  Be warned however, like every year, Best Buy will be a madhouse with shoppers lining up hours before the doors open.  Be ready to cut time out of your Thanksgiving and equip yourself with some brass knuckles.  Blood will be shed for some of these video game deals.

Video Games

  • Assassin’s Creed Revelations (Xbox 360 or PS3)    $34.99
  • Batman: Arkham City (Xbox 360)    $29.99
  • Battlefield 3 (PS3)    $29.99
  • Call of Duty: Black Ops (PS3, Xbox 360)    $29.99
  • Call of Duty: World at War (Xbox 360)    $7.99
  • Call of Duty: World at War Greatest Hits (PS3)    $7.99
  • Deus Ex Human Revolution (PS3, Xbox 360)    $29.99
  • Uncharted 3 – Drake’s Deception – PS3    $29.99
  • Dirt 3 (PS3, Xbox 360)    $14.99
  • Fifa Soccer 12 (PS3, Xbox 360)    $34.99
  • Final Fantasy XIII (PS3, Xbox 360)    $14.99
  • Forza Motor Sport 4 (Xbox 360)    $34.99
  • Gears of War 3 (Xbox 360)    $29.99
  • Gears of War Triple Pack (Xbox 360)    $7.99
  • Spider-Man: Shattered Dimensions (PS3, Xbox 360)    $14.99
  • Homefront (PS3, Xbox 360)        $14.99
  • Madden NFL 12 (Xbox 360)    $29.99
  • NBA 2K12 (PS3, Xbox 360)    $34.99
  • Need For Speed: The Run Limited Edition (PS3)    $29.99
  • Rage (Xbox 360)        $29.99
  • X-Men Destiny (PS3, Xbox 360)    $29.99
  • Wipeout: In the Zone (Xbox 360)    $24.99
  • Dance Central 2 (Xbox 360)    $24.99
  • Kinect Sports: Season Two (Xbox 360)    $24.99
  • Madden NFL Football (Nintendo 3DS)    $14.99
  • Survival Shadows of Katmai (Nintendo Wii)    $29.99
  • Tetris Party Deluxe (Wii)    $7.99
  • The Sims 3 (Nintendo 3DS)    $14.99
  • Toy Story 3 (Xbox 360 or PS3)    $7.99
  • Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure Mega Pack (Nintendo Wii/Xbox 360/PS3)    $79.99
  • UFC Personal Trainer    $24.99

Hardware and Accessories

  • Microsoft Xbox 360 Kinect    $99.99
  • Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless Controller    $36.99
  • Xbox 360 250GB Console Bundle with Fable III and Halo Reach    $199.99
  • Xbox Live 3 Month Gold Membership$7.99
  • PlayStation 3 160GB Console Bundle (w/ Little Big Planet 2, Ratchet & Clank: All 4 One and PlayStation Plus 30-day Membership)early bird        $199.99
  • Turtle Beach – Ear Force X12 Gaming Headset for Xbox 360    $39.99
  • Nintendo 3DS Cosmo Black Bundle with Zelda Game        $179.99
  • Nintendo 3DS Flame Red Bundle with Super Mario 3D Land        $179.99
  • Rocketfish – Ultimate Starter Kit for Nintendo 3DS    $9.99

WalMart

Doors Open: 10 PM Thursday

Likelihood to be Trampled: 10 (out of 10)

Overview: The almighty WalMart once again goes to show how in the midst of an economic depression, they can still manage to have Black Friday prices like these.  Not only are their video game software deals the best out of any retail chain, but their console bundles are unbelievable.  Basically every bundle has a $50 gift card thrown in, so while purchasing an inexpensive system, one could use the gift card to purchase a low prices newly released title.  Though some of the best deals are online exclusive only, that does save you a trip to WalMart as well as your life.  If you want to see the worst of American consumerism, stop by a WalMart right before it opens and watch the madness.

$28 Game Deals

  • Battlefield 3 (PS3, Xbox 360)
  • Gears of War 3 (Xbox 360)
  • FIFA Soccer 12 (PS3, Xbox 360)
  • Forza Motorsport 4 (Xbox 360)
  • Madden NFL 12 (PS3, Xbox 360)
  • Batman: Arkham City (PS3, Xbox 360)
  • Killzone 3 (PS3)
  • Call of Duty: Black Ops (PS3, Xbox 360)
  • Cars 2 (Wii)
  • The Michael Jackson Experience (Wii)
  • NASCAR 2011 (PS3, Xbox 360)
  • Transformers: Dark of the Moon (PS3, Xbox 360)
  • inFamous 2 (PS3)
  • Just Dance 3 (Wii)

$15 Game Deals

  • Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare (PS3, Xbox 360)
  • God of War II (PS3)
  • Heavy Rain (PS3)
  • Cabela’s Dangerous Hunts (PS3)
  • Uncharted 2 (PS3)
  • Dance Central 2 (Xbox 360)
  • Epic Mickey (Wii)
  • LittleBigPlanet (PS3)
  • MX vs ATV (Xbox 360)
  • Kinect Sports: Season Two (Xbox 360)
  • LEGO Batman (Wii)
  • LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1-4 (Wii)
  • Wheel of Fortune (Wii)
  • Rio (Wii)
  • Toy Story 3 (PS3, Wii)

$10 Game Deals

  • UFC Undisputed 2012 (Xbox 360)
  • BioShock 2 (Xbox 360)
  • 007 Quantum of Solace (Xbox 360)
  • Kane & Laynch 2: Dog Days (PS3)
  • Bakugan (Wii)
  • Pure (PS3)
  • Yakuza 4 (PS3)
  • Game Party 2 (Wii)
  • Deal or No Deal (Wii)
  • How To Train Your Dragon (Wii)
  • Shrek Forever After (PS3)
  • Sing It (Xbox 360)
  • Shaun White Skateboarding (Wii)
  • Super Monkey Ball Banana Blitz (Wii)

Hardware, Accessories and Other Game Deals

  • Xbox 360 4GB Console w/ Gears of War 3, Xbox Live 3-Month Card and $50 Walmart GC (ONLINE ONLY)    $199.00
  • Xbox 360 4GB Console w/ Kinect and $50 Walmart GC    $199.96
  • Xbox 360 Kinect Bundle    $99.96
  • Xbox 360 Wireless Controller     $44.96
  • Xbox Live 3-Month Subscription Card        $12.00
  • Playstation 3 160GB Console with Bonus    $199.96
  • Playstation 3 Translucent Blue Controller    $54.96
  • PSP Dual Pack    $14.96
  • PSP-3000 Core Pack System    $99.96
  • Wii Limited Edition Blue Console    $99.96
  • Wii Remote Plus    $39.96
  • Wii Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure Starter Pack    $49.96
  • The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword Limited Edition with Music CD & Gold Remote Plus    $59.96

Sam’s Club

Likelihood to be Trampled: 3 (Out of 10)

Doors Open: 5 AM

Overview: Though owned by the WalMart Corporation, Sam’s Club isn’t quite the store to be shopping around for good video game Black Friday deals.  Sure, there are some console deals, but overall nothing to notable.  According to ads for the stores, no video game deals are listed, just console ones.  One advantage for going to Sam’s Club on Black Friday, you’ll probably be the only one in line.

Consoles and Accessories

  • Nintendo Wii Blue Console   $99
  • Playstation 3 Entertainment Bundle with Ratchet and Clank: All 4 One, LittleBigPlanet 2, and extra controller   $239
  • Xbox 360 250 GB console with Fable 3, Halo: Reach, and three month Xbox Live Gold Membership  $199

Radio Shack

Likelihood to be Trampled: 1 (out of 10)

Doors Open: 5:30 AM Friday

Overview: If you shop at Radio Shack for video game Black Friday deals, you probably do not shop on Black Fridays very often.  The store chain, which specializes in electronics except video games, has console deals similar to that of Sam’s Club.  To be perfectly honest, if you show up in front of a Radio Shack when the doors open, you’ll probably get a prize from the store.

  • Xbox 360 4 GB console with Kinect  $199
  • Playstation 3 Holiday Bundle – $199.99

Fry’s Electronics

Likelihood to be Trampled: TBA

Doors Open: TBA

Overview:  Fry’s always waits till the very last minute to release information on their Black Friday bargains, so no updates yet.  However, Fry’s always has great deals in their stores the day after Thanksgiving.  Be sure to check your newspaper or online for any updates concerning the store chain.

Amazon

Likelihood to be Trampled: ½ (Out of Ten)

Doors Open: Internet Only

Overview:  Amazon continues to have great deals all day long on Black Friday.  Every year, the website has secret offerings so no updates on those.  Apparently however, the site will be offering a Buy One, Get On 50% deal with some of this season’s hottest games like Uncharted 3 and Skyrim.  In the mean time, you can head over to the site to check out some bundle deals the site is offering as well as sign up for Amazon’s daily e-mail updates for Black Friday.

KMart

Likelihood to be Trampled: 5 (Out of Ten)

Doors Open: 5 AM

Overview:  Similar to that of Target, some good deals here, but nothing that noteworthy.  Expect to snag one of the deals below with no problem.

  • $149.99 Xbox 360 4GB Console
  • $99.99 Xbox 360 Kinect Sensor Bundle
  • $199.99 Sony PlayStation 3 Holiday Bundle
  • $34.99 Sony PS3 DualShock3 Wireless Controller
  • $39.99 Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless Controller
  • $169.99 Nintendo 3DS Flame Red Bundle w/ Super Mario 3D Land and $25 Gaming Coupon
  • $149.99 Nintendo DSi Handheld Game Console w/ $25 Member’s Only Gaming Coupon
  • Rage/ Call of Duty: Black Ops $29.99
  • $10-$15 off Playstation Greatest Hits Titles
  • Gears of War 3/Forza Motorsports 4 $39.99

 

 

Bioshock Film Adaptation: “No Burning Desire”

 Posted by  No Responses »
Nov 152011
 

Those yearning for a film adaptation of the superb Bioshock will have a harder time getting their wish granted.  According to Bioshock designer Ken Levine, no one is rushing to get the film done.

In an interview, Levine stated that there are plans for the film, but things aren’t quite in motion and won’t be for a long time.

“We got very close to having it get made – we had a deal in place and a director. But for us there’s no burning [desire] to have a movie made just to get it made,” said Levin. “For us and for Take-Two, it’s really got to be something that will give the fans something that they want, and for those who don’t know BioShock, really introduce them to something that is consistent with the game, and is it going to be a good representation of the game.”

Pirates of the Caribbean director Gore Verbinski has slated to take the director’s chair, but left due to creative differences.  Then, 28 Weeks Later director Juan Carlos Fresnadilo came aboard, but since then, no other cast or crew has been announced.

Bioshock is just another video game adapted into a film that is currently stuck in “development hell”.  Let’s hope that in time, gamers can witness the underwater world of Rapture on the big screen.

Source: Kotaku

Playstation Vita to Have UMD Transfer Option for a Price

 Posted by  No Responses »
Nov 112011
 

Those who spent money on buying UMD format games for their original PSP consoles will be able to play UMD games on the new Playstation Vita.  The only catch is, it’s going to cost you.

Sony announced that Vita will utilize a program know as UMD Passport.  The service will allow gamers to register their UMD games through an application known as the UMD Registration Application from the Playstation Store.  One advantage for partaking in the service is that the games will include a digital manuel, bilinear filtering, and will even automatically configure the game to work with the Vita’s second analog stick.

Concerning pricing, this is where gamers will be quite angered at.  Most transferred games will run at about $7 to$13 a game depending on the title.

Personally, I have mixed feelings about the paid application.  On one hand, Sony is allowing gamers to get their money’s worth for their already bought UMD titles.  On the flip side, you’re essentially paying even more money to be able to play them on what is basically a console similar to that of PSP.  Talk amongst yourselves, readers.

Source: Destructoid

 

Gran Turismo 6 Currently in Development Stage, Not Officially Announced

 Posted by  No Responses »
Nov 102011
 

Polyphony Digital head Kazunori Yamauchi confirmed in an interview with IGN that Gran Turismo 6 is indeed in the works.

Yamauchi stated that the title is currently in its development stage at the moment.  Yamuchi said that the “separating factor” between Gran Turismo 5 and the sixth installment cannot be done with simple DLC and because of that, a standalone game is in the works.

“Things that we can provide through DLC we will, so that’s really the market difference,” he said.

Though the game has not been officially announced, fans of the Gran Turismo 5 can expect new cars to be released every two months as DLC.  Yamauchi stated that the GT team would like gamers to give feedback on the DLC they want in the racing simulation.

“What we do from here on is also really dependent on the reaction of the users to this first DLC that we just released because this is the first one,” said Yamauchi.  “Now we have the feedback from our customers and we’ll see how that will affect what we will do from here.”

Gran Turismo 5 was released back in November 2010 and received fairly good reviews.

Source: VG247

 

Mass Effect 3 Entire Storyline Leaked

 Posted by  No Responses »
Nov 082011
 

Over this past weekend, a beta code for Mass Effect 3 was accidentally leaked to a Mass Effect online forum.  Now, Bioware has more problems to deal with after one internal source posted the entire outline of the game’s story on a Russian Mass Effect 3 forum.

Sources including Bioware have stated that the document is authentic, detailing much of the story.  However, in a statement, Bioware insists that the document is an early draft for the title, meaning things will definitely be different in terms of story in the final game.

“We are still investigating, but it appears that some internal story files have been leaked,” said one Bioware employee. “Even though the information in those files is out of date and does not reflect the final story experience, we urge fans not to read them if they want to experience the purest form of the story in Mass Effect 3.”

Bioware is taking minor legal measures in the case.  According to members of the forum, they are receiving cease and desist letters from the developer.  No word yet on if Bioware will take any further action.

After going to the actual Russian forum, it looks to be that the content has been taken off the site.  Patience people, Mass Effect 3 is only months away, don’t spoil it for yourself.

Source: PC Authority

 

Orginial Zelda 3DS Title in the Works, No Surprises Here

 Posted by  No Responses »
Nov 072011
 

Zelda series producer Eiji Aonuma stated in an interview that the Zelda team has plans to bring another entry of the Zelda series to the Nintendo 3DS in the near future.

Aonuma recently spoke with My Games, a Portuguese game site, about the possibility of having another Zelda title for the handheld device.  No surprises here that one is in the works.

“We are already preparing a new game, a game in the series for the Nintendo 3DS, but don’t think that it is a direct sequel to the Zelda titles released on DS. We are talking about a new game, but it takes much of what has been done on previous handhelds,” said Aonuma.

Commenting on the rumors and fan requests to bring Majora’s Mask to the 3DS, Aonuma said that because of the recent release of Ocarina of Time for the 3DS, Miyamoto and him have decided to focus on original titles rather than remakes at this time.

Time will tell what the Zelda team has in store for gamers in the coming months.  However, I sense that we’ll be hearing more at the next big game convention.

Source: Destructoid

Alan Wake Sequel Set for Digital Form

 Posted by  No Responses »
Nov 042011
 

Major Nelson of Xbox Live has confirmed that the next Alan Wake title will be available through XBLA instead of being shipped off into stores.

“We can confirm that this new “Alan Wake” game will be a fully standalone experience and released on Xbox LIVE,” tweeted Major Nelson this morning via his Twitter account.

The game is set to be revealed at this year’s (hah) Video Game Awards on December 10.  Remedy has already stated that the game will be “structured like a full release” despite the game being a digital download only.

“It’s structured like a full release complete with a pretty damn impressive storyline that expands the originals in some interesting ways,” said Remedy’s Community Manager Peter Papadopoulos.

It was also rumored this morning that the sequel will be called Alan Wake: Night Springs.  At this time however, Remedy has not commented on the speculation.

Source: VG247

Gears of War 3 DLC Postponed to Unknown Date

 Posted by  No Responses »
Nov 012011
 

Those excited about the first Gears of Wars 3 downloadable content being available today will be greatly disappointed.  Due to technical difficulties, the add on will be postponed to a later date.

Epic sent out e-mails early this morning stating that the Horde Command Pack will not be released today.  The company did not express what the problem was, leaving gamers more confused.

“The Horde Command Pack has been postponed due to a technical difficulty,” said Dom Carey, Epic’s PR man. “The Epic team are working round the clock to fix this issue, but I wanted to give you a heads up that you will not be able to use your Season Pass to download this DLC until it this is resolved.”

No word yet on when it will be released.  Epic encourages gamers to keep checking the forums for any new updates concerning the DLC.

The Horde Command Pack adds new maps, characters, weapon skins, and more goodies and costs 800 Microsoft Points (Season Pass holders will receive the content for free).

Epic plans on releasing the second DLC pack, Raam’s Shadow,  on December 13 for 1,200 MSP.

Source: VG247

 

First 23 Minutes of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Leaked

 Posted by  No Responses »
Oct 312011
 

With Skyrim only weeks away till its release, one gamer managed to get a hold of the game’s opening scenes and of course leaked it on Youtube.

Youtube user Twelve Dogs Dancing uploaded the two videos, combined being 23 minutes, early this morning that showcase not only the game’s opening cinematic, but also a small part of the game’s introductory sequence.  Both clips are featured on the Xbox 360 version of Skyrim.

At this time, Youtube has taken down the content for copyright purposes.  However, if you head over to Kotaku, you’ll be able to watch both videos, but you should probably act quick.

After viewing a portion of both videos, the game shows off that Medieval goodness we all know and love, so Elder Scrolls fans should be excited.  The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim will be released on November 11 for the PS3, Xbox 360, and PC.

Source: Kotaku

Review – Afterwind (PC)

 Posted by  7 Responses »
Oct 282011
 

In my youth, the classic board game Risk was always a game that I enjoyed.  Risk is all about strategy and quick decision making in which one choice could be the difference between victory and defeat.  Of course, as I matured, Risk turned in drunken Risk where my friends and I battle amongst each other for the world.  Usually the next morning, one of us would wake up with a black eye, but still the game was back stabbings galore!  One title that takes likens from Risk, Axis and Allies, and Civilization is a new online game called Afterwind.

Afterwind is a free, online interactive strategy game that puts players against in each other in an all out war.  What makes Afterwind different is that though the concept is very similar to that of Risk and Axis and Allies, it stands on its own.  Instead of taking over specific countries, players start on a host country and gradually take over cities in several countries.  Once all the cities are conquered in a country, the player then controls the entire nation.  This feature is where the title greatly excels with the interactive map being highly detailed and overall impressive.  Players literally can choose one out of the many countries of the world to start and gradually take over the world.  The various statistics each city has are unique and help build your army with the funds and military each city offers you upon capture.  It is truly memorizing the amount of research and work the developers put into the game board.

Apparently the Only Countries Worth Invading Are In Europe

Gameplay wise, Afterwind is your basic point and click RTS title.  Players build an army and move troops around the globe from various captured stations.  The player’s goal is to capture your opponent’s capital and hold it for two in game weeks.  One positive aspect is that each player does not have to wait till their turn to move.  Instead, all players are on a one to five minute timer that allows them to make their moves in the given time frame.  Once the clock reaches zero, a new week begins.  As an added challenge, in place of game cards are funds to buy various fighter classes and maintain costs for running your military.  Most games start players off at around 10000, with those funds usually depleting after the first turn, so it is much harder than it looks to manage them.  As you move your military around the world, obliviously heart pounding and intense battles ensue, right?

Unfortunately, that is not the case.  Battles take place in a small in game box where your selected soldiers apparently fight.  However, it is quite disappointing to note that the outcomes of the battles seem a bit uneven.  Most of the time, you or your opponent just takes one lost soldier after another, back and forth, until one reaches zero.  There is no skill or luck with winning a battle, whoever has the most soldiers pretty much wins.

Though the online component is well balanced with the game categorizing online match types between short or long rounds, casual and beginner rooms, there is a steep learning curve.  Unfortunately, the tutorial mode can be completed in a mere five minutes, which in general does not prepare one for global domination.  If one plans on practicing their skills before heading online, there is no chance that is happening either.  No single player modes are featured in the game, which means players can expect hours of surrenders and defeat before winning an actual game.  For an in depth and detailed game like this, you’d expect developers to add some kind of practice mode.

Green Team Gonna Get F***ed Up

The title is also free to play, but oddly enough has a premium mode where players can get addition abilities for a monthly fee.  It’s a bit odd that the developers charge a monthly fee instead of a onetime payment or some kind of donation.  The graphics and audio departments aren’t anything to praise either.  The game consists of a large map with some stock orchestral music to serve as light background music.

There are three things I learned from playing Afterwind.  Firstly, I am an awful general.  Secondly, never build your home base in Central Africa if you plan for world domination.  Finally, just steer clear of Indonesia for various reasons.  Overall, Afterwind is a decent strategic title that manages to create the feel of Risk in an online form.  Those who are diehard fans of the board game or are avid RTS players will greatly enjoy the title. However, the average gamer may be turned off by the difficult learning curve.  Now if you’ll excuse me, I have a handle of Jack Daniels by my side and a Risk game board that needs to be dusted off.

PC Game

Graphics

55
  

Audio

55
  

Gameplay

75

Creativity

80
  

Execution

70
  

Offset

60
    

6.6
  

How do these ratings work? Click here for descriptions!

Pros

  • Detailed and Impressive In Game Board
  • Great Player Turn System
  • Currency Management Brings Nice Challenge
  • Impressive Online Modes
  • It’s Free

Con

  • Uneven Battle System
  • No Single Player
  • Weak Tutorial
  • Difficult Learning Curve
  • Monthly Charge for Premium Features

 

Review – Rocketbirds: Hardboiled Chicken (PS3)

 Posted by  No Responses »
Oct 282011
 

-Error reading from ESRB datastream-
Please visit ESRB.org for rating information.

When I think of chickens, I think of the Bluth family’s classic chicken routine done on Arrested Development.  When I heard about a new downloadable PSN title that has gun trotting chickens fighting off waves of totalitarian like penguins, I thought to myself, what has this world come to.  Rocketbirds: Hardboiled Chicken is a new Playstation 3 arcade title that manages to bring some great concepts to the side scrolling action genre, but manages to score average on other elements.

In Rocketbirds, you play as a veteran chicken soldier named Hardboiled whose sole mission is to destroy a penguin like army that has taken over the chicken country as well as several other “bird” nations.  Their leader is the timid Putzki, who is accompanied by the Russian super solider Brno.  At first, the game fails to reveal any information on what is happening in the game concerning the story.  It is only through well done cut scenes that the player learns about Hardboiled’s past and how his beloved country turned into the penguin ruled nation.  It may seem like the title would be a humorous one, however, that is not the case.  The title is surprisingly dark with little hints of humor throughout, so the lack of actual humor is a bit disappointing.

Hardboiled (Voiced By Sylvester Stallone)

Concerning the actual gameplay, Hardboiled is your typically side scrolling action game with some nice features thrown in.  Players battle their way through a variety of different locations ranging from cities, factories, underground prisons, and tropical rainforests.  Weapons wise, players can utilize basic weapons like a pistol, sub machine gun, assault rifle, etc with one notable weapon being brain bugs.  These lovable creatures allow the player to control enemy soldiers, killing other enemies in their path as well as help complete various puzzles.  The weapon serves as more of a humorous function, which is what the game so desperately needs.   Speaking of puzzles, the title has a number of them, most being fairly simple yet mundane.  I don’t know how many boxes I had to move during my play through, but boy, it was a lot.

Players fight a number of types of enemies throughout the game, each ranging from a light gunner to a super soldier.  Overall, the enemies were both a challenge yet reasonable in terms of difficulty and the variety kept the title from being a bore.  However, in general, the AI can be classified as flawed.  Numerous times, enemies would appear out of nowhere causing me to sustain serious damage.  Other times, I would fire my weapon like a crazy man only to see my enemies continuing to patrol their post like nothing was wrong.

There are a variety of enemies, but Hardboiled seems to missing actual boss fights.  The title defines boss fights as “you” being stuck in a pit like environment while waves of enemies come after you.  Not only does this get old, but it’s incredibly lazy on the developer’s part.  In total, there is one actual boss fight towards the end of the game.  Unfortunately, it is not much of a challenge.

One feature that deserves to be praised are the jet-pack sections.  These sections not only bring a great change of pace for the game, but are wholly exciting.  Players take control of Hardboiled as he sores through the sky, killing penguins and outrunning rockets being blasted at him.  The game allows and encourages players to utilize various maneuvers to defeat your enemies in the sky.  For example, using an enemy’s heat seeking missile to fly around in circles and use it to kill that same enemy brings a smile to any gamers’ face.  Though there are few of these sections, they do manage to bring some new gameplay elements and enjoyment out of the title.

Jetpacks + Chickens/Penguins= Awesome

In the graphics department, the mixture of cartoon characters and computer imagery background/foreground environments mix well and bring much life into the game.  For a PSN title, I was impressed by the foreground and background animations that manage to create layers in the game creating more depth for the various levels.  Cut scenes are done quite well with cartoon animations being the main component and looking beautifully.  Hardboiled is 3D ready if your TV has the capabilities.  However, the feature was not reviewed, partially because I am too cheap to buy a 3D television.

Included in the game is a local cooperative mode, which has its own storyline, yet all the locations remain the same.  You and a friend have the choice between several different bird-like characters all of which are armed with different weapon types.  Choosing between the various characters with different weapon types determines one’s difficulty level.  In general, the co-op mode is a nice feature that helps justify the $11.99 price tag for the title.  However, it’s difficult to give it much praise.  The gameplay remains intact with co-op puzzles appearing quite frequently, but the level designs are a duplicate of the single player ones. As you can imagine, playing a duplicate level gets boring after some time.

Those Poor Cardinals....

One portion of Hardboiled that isn’t actually part of the gameplay, but remains the most highlighted aspect of the title is the music.  The score and original music is provided by New World Revolution (N.W.R.), an electric, alternative band that showcases some brilliant sounds.  Most if not all the songs featured in the game not only make it more enjoyable, but the songs will stick with you even after completion.  There is nothing better than mowing down a brigade of soldier penguins while rocking out.   As I’m writing this now, N.W.R. plays in the background, which is unusual because when I write, complete silence is a must.  Also in the audio department is the game’s voice acting, which is fairly horrendous.  During the cut-scenes, characters speak English that in general sounds rigid especially Hardboiled himself.  When in the middle of gameplay, characters instead speak gibberish which is subtitled causing more confusion and frustration.  Combine that with the already laughable dialogue and you get pain inducing voiceover work.

Overall, Rocketbirds: Hardboiled Chicken is a fairly enjoyable title that is good to play on a rainy day.  As mentioned before, it has all the necessary components to make a great game, but it misses the mark on several aspects.  If you just have $11.99 to spend, I would look elsewhere.  If you just won the lottery and you want to go on a PSN shopping spree, I’d consider it.  If you have a strong hatred for penguins, stop reading this and go buy it now.

Playstation 3

Graphics

80
  

Audio

80
  

Gameplay

60

Creativity

75
  

Execution

70
  

Offset

73
    

7.3
  

How do these ratings work? Click here for descriptions!

 Pros:

  • Unique Concept
  • Outstanding Music
  • Well Balanced Graphics
  • Jet-Pack Missions
  • Variety of Different Locations
  • Decent Co-Op Mode

Cons:

  • Flawed AI
  • Horrendous Voiceover/Dialogue
  • Absence of Boss Fights
  • Surprisingly Lack of Humor
  • Annoying Puzzles

Metal Gear Solid HD Collection Acquries 2012 Release Date

 Posted by  No Responses »
Oct 262011
 

The much anticipated HD revision of three Metal Gear Solid titles has been officially dated for a 2012 release, months forward from the expected November 8, 2011 date.

Metal Gear Solid HD Collection will hit stores on February 3, 2012 and will be avaiable for the Playstation 3 and Xbox 360 consoles.  Konami released this statement early today commenting on the official release date.

The METAL GEAR and METAL GEAR SOLID series are the seminal work of Hideo Kojima, Japan’s master game creator, and the progenitor of the stealth action game genre. Within the METAL GEAR SOLID HD Collection, users control a number of legendary characters from the METAL GEAR SOLID universe’s elite Special Forces units who are sent on solo sneaking missions through enemy installations, vast jungles, and into the thick of battle. Alone and surrounded by the enemy, the player will find their abilities pushed to the very limit – but there lies the secret behind the series’ popularity: the cerebral challenge of figuring out how to avoid confrontation where possible, and the thrill of sneaking through enemy territory undetected.

The collection will feature Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty, Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater and Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker in HD form, along with the original Metal Gear and Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake in its 8-bit engine.  However, out of those three, Snake Eater is by far my most anticipated with it being the best in the series (in my opinion).

Source: Gaming Bolt

 

GTA V Formally Announced, Trailer Next Week

 Posted by  No Responses »
Oct 252011
 

Wow, what a shocker.  Early this morning, Rockstar officially announced Grand Theft Auto V and has confirmed that the game’s first trailer will debut next week.

Rockstar showcased a logo on their main website that is expected to be the one used for the game. Along with the logo, the site confirms that the new trailer will be released on November 2.

No confirmed systems or ,for that matter, any information has been released concerning the fifth stand alone installment of the sandbox series.

For the past few months, speculation has been swirling around concerning the title, like the game will take place in Hollywood and a 2012 release was highly likely.

Be sure to check back for more updates as they come in!

Source: VG247

 

 Older Entries  Newer Entries