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Saturday, 13 August 2011
Friday, 5 August 2011
Minecraft Being Sued By Bethesda For Use Of Word "Scrolls"
According to Notch, the creator of Minecraft, Bethesda is suing Mojang over the use of the word "Scrolls" in their expansion. The reasoning is that it's too similar to their use of the word in "The Elder Scrolls".
This isn't really unexpected. When Mojang's lawyers told them to register the name "Minecraft", they also told them to register "Scrolls" as well to avoid any trouble that might cause in the future. After applying for it, they were contacted by Bethesda's lawyers as to the intention of their use of the word "Scrolls" in their product. Notch told Bethesda's lawyers that their intention was to use it as a precursor to the name of expanions i.e Scrolls - The Banana Edition. To Notch's knowledge, he doesn't know if Bethesda had agreed to the terms.
Today, Mojang recieved a 15 page cease-and-desist letter from Bethesda's layers saying that if he does not stop using the word "Scrolls" in this work, that they are threatening to sue them should the need arise. Notch doesn't seem too concerned, noting that "I love Bethesda. I assume this nonsense is partly just their lawyers being lawyers, and a result of trademark law being the way it is."
Myself, I'm hoping that this is just something of a misunderstanding. "Scrolls" is such a general term. The patent system is a joke in its current state. The two games aren't similar in any ways, and don't share any of the same appeal to people. It's not like using the word "Scrolls" will somehow hurt Bethesda's business. I know product awareness and saturation is one thing, but this is just a ridiculous situation. Also, I don't think Bethesda wants to be know as the people who sued beloved "Minecraft".
Wednesday, 3 August 2011
Borderlands 2 OFFICIALLY Confirmed
I'm excited as hell to play this. Having played well over 100 hours with my friends on this game, I'm anxious to see what improvements can and will be made. The promise of new characters, weapons, enemies, missions, and story line are more than welcome.
Below is the announcement from Gearbox website:
2K Games and Gearbox Software Announce Borderlands™ 2 in Development
Fans can get their first glimpse of the bold evolution of the Role-Playing Shooter at Gamescom and PAX Prime 2011 this month
New York, NY – August 3, 2011 – 2K Games and Gearbox Software announced today that the sequel to the extravasplosive breakout hit, Borderlands™, is currently in development at world-renowned developer Gearbox Software. Coming to the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system and Windows PC during Take-Two's fiscal year 2013 beginning on April 1, 2012, Borderlands 2 is the epic sequel to the ultimate four-player Role-Playing Shooter loot fest. Combining invention and evolution, Borderlands 2 features all new characters, skills, environments, enemies, weapons and equipment, which come together in an ambitiously crafted story. Players will reveal secrets, and escalate mysteries of the Borderlands universe as they adventure across the unexplored new areas of Pandora.
2K Games and Gearbox Software are taking this show on the road, and fans and media will be able to get their first look at the game at Gamescom 2011 from August 17 – August 21, and at PAX Prime (Booth #3417) from August 26 – August 28. Eager gamers can learn more about Borderlands 2 right now by picking up the latest issue of Game Informer Magazine, which has the worldwide exclusive cover story on the title. Readers will find many game details inside the issue, including the first reveal of one of the several new character classes being introduced in Borderlands 2.
About Borderlands
Taking the gaming world by storm, Borderlands delivered its unique flavor of humorous and lovable characters and addictive non-stop collaborative loot-hunting gameplay on an unsuspecting populace. The critically acclaimed and best-selling Role-Playing-Shooter, as well as its four downloadable expansion packs, captured the imagination and attention of single-player and cooperative gamers around the world.
Borderlands 2 is not yet rated by the ESRB.
Microsoft Plans To Release Monthly Kinect Titles
With Fruit Ninja: Kinect releasing in just a week, Microsoft has announced that they aim to release new Kinect exclusives on a monthly basis, according to an interview between Robin Burrowes and CVG. With a few great titles out already such as Kinect Sports and Child of Eden, plus some amazing games coming out such as (of course) Fruit Ninja: Kinect, Ghost Recon: Future Soldier, the reboot of the Steel Battalion franchise titled "Heavy Armor", The Gun Stringer, Minecraft and even Mass Effect 3 there seems to be good reason for 10 million Kinect owners, such as myself, to be excited.
"Obviously we have Xbox Live Arcade exclusives running through the Summer of Arcade programme, but yes, you can expect far more exclusives coming to the platform in future," Robin Burrowes, Xbox Live product marketing manager for EMEA [Europe, Middle East and Africa], told CVG."
Though he couldn't divulge the name of the titles he is refering to, he did mention that we should "trust the legacy of titles in the past". He also mentioned that they are working on games that will be released on Xbox Live Arcade Game downloads, as well traditional, core games which include sequels to successful titles already on the platform.
Monday, 1 August 2011
Blizzard Implementing "Cash-For-Items" Scheme In Diablo III
Developer | Blizzard Entertainment |
Release Date | To Be Announced |
Blizzard has recently announced a new type of Auction House for its newest iteration of the Diablo franchise. This new AH will feature weapons and armor available for purchase using cold, hard cash. They will run along side (though separately) from the traditional auction houses like World of Warcraft's that use in-game currency.
Like the World of Warcraft auction houses, Diablo's cash-only AH will require the user to pay a fee to put it up for sale, then they will be required to pay a transaction fee when the item is sold. The seller then may keep the money on his (or her) account to use for in-game or other Blizzard products, or cash out for yet another fee. The fees are at this moment still being negotiated, though I'm sure on such a grand scale and with such a dedicated fan base that it won't matter. At all.
This poses a scary situation. I can see many people, especially a few friends I know, making this a full time job. I'm already picturing my friends trying to make a living off of playing and selling items in-game. I suppose it remains to be seen on how much in-game items will cost. Blizzard has a tendancy of pumping out some really expensive, rare or even one-off items that may end up costing hundreds or thousands on the new marketplace. After all, Blizzard will profit off of every item sold.
I'm not liking what this game is implying for the future of games. Micro-purchasing seems to be the way of the future. Look at games like Farmville (or any Zynga, or even any facebook game), any iOS game, and many Xbox or PS3 games like Record of Agarest War where in-game purchases will give you an edge over the average Joe pinch-penny. The era fair, balanced gaming is over. Hail your new King, Disposable-Income Man.
Friday, 29 July 2011
Dead Space on Iphone, Ipad on sale until July 31st
Developer | EA Redwood Shores |
Publisher | Electronic Arts |
Platforms | iOS |
Genre | Survival horror, third-person shooter |
Modes | Single-player |
Immerse yourself in events that set the stage for the action-horror storyline of Dead Space 2. Featuring a hardcore game experience and a rich audio environment specifically designed for your iPhone & iPod touch, this is an original vision of the acclaimed franchise and a true landmark game on the App Store. THE FIRST DEAD SPACE STORYLINE EVER DEVISED FOR iOS Three years have passed since the destruction of the Marker in the first Dead Space story. Now, experience first-hand the events that unleash the Necromorph hordes once again. You’ll find yourself on a mission of uncertain purpose in the Mines of Titan. Soon, however, the truth of your situation will become grotesquely clear… A CHARGED SENSORY EXPERIENCE WITH VIVID SOUND AND VISCERAL GRAPHICS Featuring a fully voice-acted stereo soundtrack, plus a movie-quality score and sound effects, we recommend experiencing the game with headphones for full immersion. Hear every footstep in the empty passages and feel the tension build as you are pulled deeper into danger. With cutting-edge visuals, rich in effects and atmospheric lighting, Dead Space reproduces the cinematic horror of the console experience and sets a new benchmark for graphical fidelity on the iOS platform. SPECIALLY DESIGNED CONTROLS KEEP YOU FOCUSED ON THE ACTION Intuitive controls have been conceived to maximize the immersive experience of the game on iPhone & iPod touch. The on-screen HUD is seamlessly integrated into the game environment. Navigate 6 varied environments and battle Necromorphs with simple swipe and tap controls that offer accessibility without sacrificing depth. Nothing will break the spell of the story’s adrenaline-driven suspense. INTRODUCING 2 EXCLUSIVE WEAPONS & FEATURING CLASSIC MODULES Access the ALL-NEW Plasma Saw and Core Extractor, plus 3 more weapons from the Dead Space universe – and get on with the business of strategic dismemberment. In addition, utilize true physics-based Kinesis and Stasis Modules well-known to players of the original Dead Space console game. BUY AND DOWNLOAD UPGRADES IN THE IN-GAME STORE Built into the context of the Dead Space environment, the in-game Store enables you to instantly purchase and download upgrades to help you survive the Necromorph onslaught. Get additional Power Nodes to enhance weapons at the Bench or to unlock sealed doors. Increase your offensive and defensive capabilities with Weapon Output and Armor Integrity Modules. Or get the Credit Booster to scavenge more credits from dismembered Necromorphs. ALSO LOOK FOR A SPECIAL UNLOCK IN DEAD SPACE 2 FOR CONSOLE Don’t forget to register your Dead Space game for iPhone & iPod touch
Duke Nukem: Forever on sale at selected Wal-Marts for $39.99
| Developer | 3D Realms |
| Publisher | 2K Games |
| Platforms | Microsoft Windows, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Mac OS X |
| Release date | June 14, 2011 |
| Genre | First-person shooter |
| Modes | Single-player, multiplayer |
After a recent cruise to my local CANADIAN Wal-mart, I noticed that the oft-criticized, yet well-to-do-in-sales raunchy classic Duke Nukem was on sale for only $39.99. I was on the fence about buying the game after hearing so many different views of the game and without playing/renting it first. I ended up buying it anyways, since it was only $40. So, if you've been on the fence buying it as well, maybe this dip will be the incentive you needed to check it out.
The Duke Nukem: Forever seems to also be available for $39.99 in the AMERICAN Wal-Mart.
Thursday, 28 July 2011
3DS Drops to $169.99
Nintendo recently announced the drastic price drop of their newest handheld, the Nintendo 3DS. The handheld consoles original MSRP was $249.99. The price is now sitting at a meager $169.99, (an $80 drop for you non math-wizards). Considering how great some of the games are on this, plus the glasses-free 3D, as well as the ability to watch Netflix on it, the Augmented Reality games, web browser and backwards compatibility, it's hard to pass a deal like this up. The price change is expected to take place on August 12th, 2011.
Also, according to Nintendo, In addition to the system receiving a price drop, consumers who bought the system at its original price will have access to 10 Nintendo Entertainment System (Original NES) games as well as 10 Game Boy Advance at no charge before they are available to the general public.
View the press release after the break.
Nintendo 3DS price drops to $169.99, as great value and new 3D games come together
2011-07-28
REDMOND, Wash., July 28, 2011 – Nintendo of America today announced plans to drop the suggested retail price of its portable Nintendo 3DS™ system to $169.99 in the United States, as new games based on some of the world's most beloved video game franchises head to the system. The new price, down from the suggested launch price of $249.99 and effective Aug. 12, makes an outstanding value even better and sets up a strong holiday season for the system.
"For anyone who was on the fence about buying a Nintendo 3DS, this is a huge motivation to buy now," said Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime. "We are giving shoppers every incentive to pick up a Nintendo 3DS, from an amazing new price to a rapid-fire succession of great games."
Nintendo 3DS has the strongest software lineup of any video game system this holiday season and the new price now opens up the glasses-free 3D experience to many more consumers. Building on the popularity of The Legend of Zelda™: Ocarina of Time™ 3D, which launched June 19, the upcoming game calendar is a Who's Who of iconic video game franchises. Star Fox 64™ 3D arrives on Sept. 9, followed by Super Mario™ 3D Land in November, Mario Kart™ 7 in December and Kid Icarus™: Uprising during the holiday season.
In addition to great games, Nintendo 3DS has a host of attractive features* that make it the must-have video game system this season:
The new Nintendo Video™ service automatically delivers short 3D videos from the worlds of music, comedy, animation and Hollywood.
A free application allows Netflix members with unlimited streaming plans to instantly watch TV episodes and movies streaming from Netflix.
The Nintendo eShop is a digital store for Nintendo 3DS owners that provides access to a wide variety of downloadable content, such as original 3D software, classic games that have been re-mastered in 3D called 3D Classics, Game Boy™ and Game Boy Color "Virtual Console" games in their original 2D glory, and more than 350 Nintendo DSiWare™ games. Visitors can also view video game trailers, screen shots and product information for games, including those available at retail locations.
Since Nintendo 3DS launched in the United States on March 27, more than 830,000 people in the U.S. alone have purchased one to enjoy 3D visuals without the need for special glasses. These Nintendo 3DS owners represent some of Nintendo's most loyal customers, and Nintendo is rewarding them for getting in on the action early with 20 free downloadable games from the Nintendo eShop.
These free games are available to anyone who owns a Nintendo 3DS system and uses a wireless broadband Internet signal to connect to the Nintendo eShop at least once before 11:59 p.m. Eastern time on Aug. 11. These users will automatically be registered in the Nintendo 3DS Ambassador program. The program contains two elements:
Starting Sept. 1, Nintendo 3DS Ambassadors will be able to download 10 NES™ Virtual Console™ games at no charge and before they are available in the Nintendo eShop to the general public. These games, including Super Mario Bros.™, Donkey Kong Jr.™, Balloon Fight™, Ice Climber™ and The Legend of Zelda™, are slated to become paid downloadable games, but Ambassadors get them early for free. Once the paid versions of the games are posted to the Nintendo eShop later in the year, the updated versions will be available to Ambassadors for download at no cost.
By the end of 2011, Nintendo will provide Ambassadors with 10 Game Boy Advance Virtual Console games. These include games like Yoshi's Island™: Super Mario™ Advance 3, Mario Kart™: Super Circuit, Metroid™ Fusion, WarioWare™, Inc.: Mega Microgame$ and Mario vs. Donkey Kong™. These games will be available exclusively to Ambassadors, and Nintendo currently has no plans to make these 10 games available to the general public on the Nintendo 3DS in the future.
More details about this program will be announced in the future.
Tuesday, 26 July 2011
Big Sales On Xbox Live
Mass Effect 2
This weeks Xbox Live Deals of the Week Features Mass Effect 2's download content in the spotlight. All of the DLC from the newest iteration of Mass Effect is on sale now, for half off.
Mass Effect 2: Shadow Broker - 800MP - 400MP
- Invade the secret lair for 50% off
Mass Effect 2: The Arrival - 560MP - 280MP
- Discover the truth at the galaxy's edge
Mass Effect 2: Stolen Memory - 560MP - 280MP
- Get the master thief half-off
To add to the atmosphere of great sales, Microsoft Studios has put up several games and DLC's from their biggest hits for a great discount. Featured games are Halo 3, Halo: Reach, Halo: Wars, Gears of War 2, Forza 3, Fable 3, Kinect Sports, Alan Wake and Crackdown 2. Those are some pretty great games, and to be able to download the DLC for 50% off, there is no reason not to pick up any of these if you were holding off. Check after the break for more info.
- Halo 3 - Mythic Map Pack – 400MP
- Halo 3 - Mythic II Map Pack – 400MP
- Halo: Reach - Defiant Map Pack - 400MP
- Halo: Reach - Noble Map Pack – 400MP
- Halo Wars - Strategic Options Pack - 400MP
- Halo Wars - Historical Battle - 400MP
- Gears of War 2 - All Fronts Collection - 400MP
- Gears of War 2 - Flashback Multiplayer Map Pack - 400MP
- Gears of War 2 - Snowblind Multiplayer Map Pack - 200MP
- Gears of War 2 - Dark Corners Multiplayer Map Pack - 280MP
- Forza 3 - Community Choice - 200MP
- Forza 3 - Autoweek Car Show Pack - 200MP
- Forza 3 - Nurburgring - 200MP
- Forza 3 - Jalopnik Car Pack - 200MP
- Forza 3 - Road & Track Pack - 200MP
- Forza 3 - Summer Velocity Car Pack - 200MP
- Forza 3 - World Class Car Pack - 200MP
- Forza 3 - VIP Car Pack - 400MP
- Forza 3 - Motorsports Legends Car Pack - 200MP
- Forza 3 - Benchmark High Speed Ring - 200MP
- Forza 3 - Sidewinder Proving Grounds - 200MP
- Forza 3 - Hot Holidays Car Pack - 200MP
- Fable 3 - Traitor's Keep Quest Pack - 280MP
- Fable 3 - Understone Quest Pack - 200MP
- Kinect Sports - Calorie Challenge Pack - 160MP
- Alan Wake - The Writer - 280MP
- Alan Wake - The Signal - 280MP
- Crackdown 2 - Toy Box – 280MP
- Crackdown 2 - The Deluge – 280MP
Sunday, 24 July 2011
Resident Evil 4 HD, Code Veronica Dates Revealed
Resident Evil 4 and Resident Evil: Code Veronica have finally had their release dates announced. Resident Evil 4 will be landing in the US on September 20th, 2011, while Resident Evil Code Veronica will be seeing a release date on September 27th, 2011.
Resident Evil 4 and Resident Evil: Code Veronica will be download-only on XBL and PSN, but it will will feature all of the bonus content from the previous console version, such as the "Separate Ways epilogue"
Saturday, 23 July 2011
Review - Dead Space 2 and Dead Space: Ignition
This is a new regular segmnent I will be featuriug on my site. As an avid gamer, I love to play as much as possible. I will be reviewing the games I've played here, so look out for my new posts. My first games that I will be reviewing is Dead Space 2, as well as Dead Space: Ignition.
Developer - Visceral Games
Publisher - Electronic Arts
Platform - Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Genres - Survival horror, third-person shooter
Modes - Single-player, multiplayer
MetaCritic - 90
User Ratings - 86
My Rating - 85
Achievements - 900/1000
Hours Played - 10
Dead Space 2 was an all-round great game. The story picks up where Dead Space 1, or more recently, Dead Space: Ignition, left off (more on that later). You continue as protagonist Isaac Clarke, awakened from stasis by Dead Space: Ignition "protagonist" (I use that term loosely) Franco Delille. The game takes place on Saturn's now-shattered moon Titan, on a humanized colony called "The Sprawl". This time around, the story pits you against multiple adversaries; EarthGov, Unitologists and, of course, the Necromorphs.
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| The fate of Franco |
The updated graphics are a welcome addition to the new iteration of the Dead Space franchise. Its visually rich and effective at setting an unsettling environment. The music is dramatic, and queued to indiviual events, even some as small as things being knocked over in an area beyong your vision being seen only by casted shadows on poorly lit walls creating a crescendo of nervousness and anxiety. Of course, this game makes its best use in low lit rooms, with full 5.1+ surround sound, and on the largest HDTV you can find, with your chair or couch only two feet away.
Though the game is one of the best I've played so far, it has had its flaws. My biggest dissapointment was the lopsided multiplayer. It just seemed unbalanced in favor of the Necromorphs. It was, however, fun. I spent a few hours playing through it and have had just as many fun moments, as I have had frustrating moments. Another thing I couldn't get into was Isaac's new appearance and personality. I liked how in the first one, he was a faceless hero. It was easier to personify him. With his own personality, and his own struggles, it seems like they are just trying to dramatized and romanticize the whole story. The story itself seemed to make next to no progression into the Dead Space Canon. It also seems, other than the now face-ful Isaac, the game has a Halo-like storyline. An be-all, end-all object that threatens the galaxy, and it turns out there are more, and the faceless hero has to save the day, and all this occurs in space. The length of the game was also kind of odd, considering it takes two discs. I ended up getting 90% of the achievements in less than 10 hours.
As far as the controls game, I couldn't be happier. The sluggish movements pay homage to the greats of the survival horror genre like Dino Crisis, Resident Evil and Silent Hill. The lack of a HUD makes the game much more immersive and cinematic, thus drawing the gamer in and setting up the inevitable scare-tactic that will make you wonder why you play the game at all. Though there is a selection of weapons, I again found that by the time I found my next weapon, I never used it at all because my original weapon had all my nodes in it, and was superior in almost every way. This isn't a major concern, but it seems that for all the work put into diversifying weapons, there isn't any real reason to take any others other than achievements.
 |
| My copies of Dead Space |
I ended up only getting 900 out of the available 1000 achievements. The last two are just too frustrating to try. One requires you to play the game on the hardest difficulty, which provides little to no ammo or health, makes each enemy seem like a boss, and you only get three saves for the entire length of the game. When you die, it sends you back to the last save point, not a checkpoint. Hours of work could be lost. Maybe some day I'll go back and try again, but not likely in the near future.
Overall, I think the game is easily one of the best for 2011, so far. I've never really felt so much anxiety playing a game. It is scary, but it's also fun and rewarding. I could easily recommended this game to anyone who loves FPS or Survival Horror games.
Developers - Visceral Games, Sumo Digital
Publisher - Electronic Arts
Platforms - Xbox Live Arcade, PlayStation Network
Genres - Survival horror, puzzle, action
Modes - Single-player, multiplayer
Metacritic - 35
User rating - 47
My rating - 49
Achievements - 200/200
Hours played - 2
One of the major gripes I've had with this game was it's repetitiveness. It's three mini-games over and over again, with learning curves steeper than Mount Everest. While the games were fun initially, they quickly got annoying and difficult past the point of frustration. The only redeeming qualities of this game are the story, and the bonus suit for Dead Space 2. It tells the tale of Franco Delille, the man who sets you free from your cell at the beginning of Dead Space 2, as well as his motives and fate. Upon completion of the game
"After completing the game players will receive bonus items for Dead Space 2, including a hacker-themed suit with 15% armor and 15 inventory slots, as well as a bonus to the hacking portions of the game Players also receive a hacker-themed Contact Beam weapon, extra power nodes, health packs, ammo, and audio logs. These bonuses are found in "conduit rooms" unlocked with a Dead Space Ignition completed save file"
Hardware Crack
Hardware Crack is a fairly traditional puzzle solving mini-game in which you redirect various colored lasers in to their respective exit points. You are time limited in this one and thus required to think fast.
There are various components in the playing field each with different functions.
Trace Route
Trace Route involves controlling an electrical signal in a race against other signals to the finish line. You are required to dodge obstacles - walls and other moving objects that will slow you down to a near stop whilst also aiming for various power-ups that grant you the ability to reverse the AI opponents controls, drop walls behind you or simply give you a speed boost.
System Override
System Override is a simple Tower Defense minigame in which you are not only required to block enemy attackers but do so whilst advancing troops to an objective on the other side of the playing field. You have multiple unit types - one of which has the ability to slow down incoming enemy units
Over all, this game was nothing more than a stepping stone to Dead Space 2, and should be avoided unless you plan on playing Dead Space 2 immediately after.
Thursday, 21 July 2011
Xbox Live Summer of Arcade 2011
Xbox Live's annual Summer of Arcade has begun. This years theme is the plainly named "Summer Fun Pack". Last years Summer of Arcade themed "Beat the Heat" featured some great games such as Castlevania: Harmony of Despair, Lara Croft and the Guardian of the Light, Limbo, Monday Night Combat, and Hydro Thunder Hurricane. This year it seems like they are taking it up a notch, with a notable nod towards Kinect, by introducing 5 new titles as well as a FREE 6th title for those who purchase all 5 before August 23rd, 2011. The games have staggered releases, which fall on the next 4 following Wednesdays. For a The titles are:
Bastion - 1200MP
- Available Now
- Supergiant Games
From Dust - 1200MP
- July 27th, 2011
- Ubisoft Montipellier
Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet - 1200MP
- August 3rd, 2011
- Shadow Planet Productions
Fruit Ninja: Kinect 800MP
- August 10th, 2011
- Halfbrick
Toy Soldiers: Cold War - 1200MP
- August 17th, 2011
- Signal Studios
And as a bonus for those who purchase all five games:
Crimson Alliance - Free
- Must buy all games before August 23rd, 2011
Certain Affinity
The total cost will run you a cool 5600 MP, which is roughly $70.00. Considering that most games now cost that much on their own, it seems like this is a fair deal. Granted, a lot of the games are casual, pick up and play games, but you're more likely to spend more hours playing these, than most single $70 games. Unless it's Fallout. Or Oblivion. After the break is a short description, details, a summary of the game, and a picture for each game to give you an idea of what to expect.
Bastion - 1200MP
Publisher - Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment
Platform - Windows, Xbox Live Arcade
Release date - Xbox 360 (XBLA) July 20, 2011
Genre - Role-Playing
Metacritic Score - 88
User Score - 82
The game takes place in the aftermath of the Calamity, a catastrophic event that suddenly fractured the world as people knew it into many pieces and led to an infestation of hostile creatures. Players take control of the Kid, a silent protagonist who awakens on one of the few remaining pieces of the old world and sets off for the titular Bastion, where everyone agreed to go in troubled times. He finds almost nothing left upon arrival, but is told by a wise old man that together, they could build something special. The Kid then embarks on a quest to reconstruct the world the way it used to be, while the old man narrates his adventure and provides details on what exactly has happened.
From Dust - 1200MP
Publisher - Ubisoft
Platform - Microsoft Windows, Xbox 360 (XBLA), PlayStation 3 (PSN) OnLive
Release date - Microsoft Windows, Xbox 360 (XBLA)- July 27, 2011
Genre - Puzzle
In From Dust, players assume a god-like first-person perspective from which they manipulate an archipelago environment in an effort to save, and enlighten, a nomadic tribe. With a spherical cursor, the user controls certain types of matter, namely soil, lava, water, and vegetation, in real time. Lava cools to form solid rock, vegetation propagates in soil, and moving water quickly erodes terrain. Physical changes to the world occur extremely rapidly, allowing players to restructure islands within minutes.
Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet - 1200MP
Developer - Shadow Planet Productions (Fuelcell Games/Gagne International)
Publisher - Microsoft Studios
Platform - Xbox Live Arcade
Release date - August 3rd, 2011
Genre - Action
Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet is an upcoming action video game in development by Shadow Planet Productions (Fuelcell Games/Gagne International) for Xbox Live Arcade. The game has been in development since 2007 and was first demonstrated in March 2011 at Penny Arcade Expo East. The game is set on an alien planet and includes exploration elements similar to Metroid and Castlevania. Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet is planned for release in the summer of 2011. The game features music by Dimmu Borgir during cinematics.
Fruit Ninja - Kinect 800MP
Developer - Halfbrick
Platform - iOS, Android OS, Windows Phone 7, Xbox 360 (XBLA)
Release date - August 10th, 2011
Genre - Arcade
Modes - Single-player, Multiplayer (iPad and Kinect for Xbox 360)
In Fruit Ninja the player slices fruit with a blade controlled via a touch pad. As the fruit is thrown onto the screen, the player swipes their finger across the screen to create a slicing motion, attempting to slice the fruit in half. Extra points are awarded for slicing multiple fruits with one swipe, and players can use additional fingers to make multiple slices simultaneously. Players must slice all fruit; if three pieces of fruit are missed the game ends, but upon reaching scores that are multiples of one hundred (i.e. 100, 200, 300, etc), the player will gain an extra life (unless they have not missed a piece of fruit already). Bombs are occasionally thrown onto the screen, and will also end the game should the player slice them.
Toy Soldiers: Cold War - 1200MP
Developer - Signal Studios
Publisher - Microsoft Studios
Platform - Xbox 360 (XBLA)
Release date - August 17, 2011
Genre - Action/Strategy
Mode - Single-player, Multiplayer
Announced on March 9, 2011, Toy Soldiers: Cold War is Signal Studios' follow-up sequel to the immensely popular game, Toy Soldiers. Toy Soldiers: Cold War takes a look into what might have happened had military aggression escalated in the 1980's between the USA and then USSR. Toy Soldiers: Cold War features a blend of first-person action and strategy, similar to the original Toy Soldiers, but with added features and gameplay.
Crimson Alliance - Free
Publisher - Microsoft Games Studios
Platform - Xbox Live Arcade
Release date - September 7 2011
Genre - Action role-playing game
Modes - Single-player, Multi-player
Genre - Action Adventure
Crimson Alliance is an upcoming co-op action role-playing game developed by Certain Affinity and published by Microsoft Games Studios. The game is scheduled for release on Xbox Live Arcade in September 2011 in conjunction as part of Microsoft's annual Summer of Arcade promotion.
Party with up to three friends and battle the sinister Cult of the Soul Siren in this fast-action RPG title from Certain Affinity and Microsoft Game Studios. Play one of three classes each with a host of special abilities from the Assassin’s time-bending attacks, to the Wizards elemental mastery, to the Mercenary’s sweeping whirlwind strikes. The World of Crimson features labyrinthine crypts, ruined cities, deadly traps and hidden treasures, populated by elite mini-bosses and the hordes they control. You’ll soon discover that the three main characters have their own motivations, revealed in a story-driven cooperative campaign of betrayal, foul magic and ancient secrets.
Turtle Beach announces Modern Warfare 3 Headsets.
Just shortly after Madcatz announced their theme Gears of War 3 theme headsets, Turtle Beach announced some of their own for Call of Duty - Modern Warfare 3. Like the Madcatz headsets, the Turtle Beach Modern Warfare headsets will be emblazoned with the Modern Warfare 3 Logo, and will be staggered in price, from high-end expensive headsets, to low end budget headsets. Having owned several Turtle Beach headsets, I can honestly say I'm only looking forward to the wired ones, just based on my past experience with the Turtle Beach Earforce X31. There was an annoying, loud click every few seconds because of the rampant Wireless N signals cruising through my apartments airways, just jamming up my valuable airwave real estate. Though, my wired Turtle Beach headset has never had a problem. I would wait for reviews to see if their new wireless headsets to see if the issue has been resolved. Also, who is going to spend $70 on a game, and $300 on the headset for it? If you are, buy me one too since you have so much disposable income.
Ear Force DELTA (EFD) – Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3-Optimized Programmable Wireless
Dolby 7.1 Surround Sound Headset with Bluetooth Chat. The top-of-the-line EFD headset
comes packaged in a specially-themed carrying case and is pre-loaded with unique custom
Modern Warfare 3 presets and voice prompts. Ear Force Delta is the ultimate Xbox 360 and PS3
weapon for the most avid Modern Warfare 3 players. MSRP: $299.95.
Ear Force BRAVO (EFB) – Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 Optimized Programmable Wireless
Universal Gaming Headset. Featuring the same custom Modern Warfare 3 presets as the EFD,
the EFB provides players with the same optimized experience in a universal headset that’s the
perfect Call of Duty® companion on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC. MSRP $179.95.
Ear Force CHARLIE (EFC) – Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 Optimized Multi-Speaker Surround
Sound PC Gaming Headset. With eight amplified, acoustically-angled speakers delivering
discrete surround sound, this tournament-grade, Modern Warfare 3 optimized wired headset is
the perfect choice for competitive PC gamers. MSRP $129.95.
Ear Force FOXTROT (EFF) – Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 Optimized Universal Gaming
Headset. For Modern Warfare 3 players seeking effortless cross-platform performance, the EFF
provides gamers with high-fidelity amplified audio along with several key features to set it apart.
MSRP $99.95.
Ear Force DELTA (EFD) – Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3-Optimized Programmable Wireless
Dolby 7.1 Surround Sound Headset with Bluetooth Chat
MSRP - $299.95
Ear Force DELTA (EFD) – Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3-Optimized Programmable Wireless
Dolby 7.1 Surround Sound Headset with Bluetooth Chat. The top-of-the-line EFD headset
comes packaged in a specially-themed carrying case and is pre-loaded with unique custom
Modern Warfare 3 presets and voice prompts. Ear Force Delta is the ultimate Xbox 360 and PS3
weapon for the most avid Modern Warfare 3 players. MSRP: $299.95.
Ear Force BRAVO (EFB) – Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 Optimized Programmable Wireless
Universal Gaming Headset.
MSRP - $179.95
Ear Force BRAVO (EFB) – Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 Optimized Programmable Wireless
Universal Gaming Headset. Featuring the same custom Modern Warfare 3 presets as the EFD,
the EFB provides players with the same optimized experience in a universal headset that’s the
perfect Call of Duty® companion on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC. MSRP $179.95.
Ear Force CHARLIE (EFC) – Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 Optimized Multi-Speaker Surround
Sound PC Gaming Headset
MSRP - $129.95
Ear Force CHARLIE (EFC) – Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 Optimized Multi-Speaker Surround
Sound PC Gaming Headset. With eight amplified, acoustically-angled speakers delivering
discrete surround sound, this tournament-grade, Modern Warfare 3 optimized wired headset is
the perfect choice for competitive PC gamers. MSRP $129.95.
Ear Force FOXTROT (EFF) – Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 Optimized Universal Gaming
Headset.
MSRP $99.95
Ear Force FOXTROT (EFF) – Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 Optimized Universal Gaming
Headset. For Modern Warfare 3 players seeking effortless cross-platform performance, the EFF
provides gamers with high-fidelity amplified audio along with several key features to set it apart.
MSRP $99.95.
New themed headsets for Gears of War
Madcatz has recently announced some themed headsets for the upcoming blockbuster game Gears of War 3. They are offering both high and low end headsets, for all price ranges. They will all have emblazoned Gears of War Logo's on them, and be "officially licensed" for Gears of War. My history with Mad Catz has been spotty. I've had some gems for headsets, but I've had some paper-weights for controllers. In fact, the controllers were so bad, I used them once then put it on my desk as an actual paper-weight. It's been a while since then, and it seems like they've improved the quality of their stock ten-fold. Check out the new headsets below the break.
Join the fray and obliterate the competition with TRITTON’s Gears of War 3 Dolby 7.1 Surround Sound Headset. Powerful Dolby Headphone technology thrusts you into the middle of a 3D warzone where the sounds from every whizzing bullet and booming explosion are heard with pinpoint accuracy. Optimized for transmissions over Xbox LIVE, the detachable, flexible microphone broadcasts crystal-clear voice commands to your squadron.
Official artwork taken directly from the game elevates the headset rank to collector’s item. Pulsating LEDs glow red to make the graphics spring to life. And with the distinct Selective Voice Monitoring (SVM) feature, you have the option of hearing your own voice through the headset. Featuring independent game and voice volume controls to customize your gaming experience and a pair of high-fidelity speakers to enhance in-game acoustics, you get the control and power required for domination over the Locust Horde.
TRITTON’s Gears of War 3 Performance Stereo Headset sets a new standard for gaming headsets. Connecting to the Xbox 360 console via USB and equipped with a host of innovative features, notable attributes include an advanced communication system with independent game and voice volume controls. With the distinct Selective Voice Monitoring (SVM) feature, you have the option of hearing your own voice through the headset. Precision-balanced speakers provide rich, full stereo audio, while the detachable, flexible microphone— optimized for transmissions over Xbox LIVE —delivers crystal-clear voice commands to your squadron.
Transmit clear-clear voice commands to your squadron with the Gears of War 3 Throat Communicator for Xbox 360. Utilizing a military-inspired behind-the-neck design, skirmishes become immersive as you go head-to-head with hostiles on Xbox LIVE. Lightweight, comfortable, and complete with an adjustable neckband boasting foam-rubber inserts for a custom fit, the Throat Communicator provides hands-free messaging for warriors of all sizes.
Gears of War 3 Dolby 7.1 Surround Sound Headset for Xbox 360®
Price - $179.99
Official artwork taken directly from the game elevates the headset rank to collector’s item. Pulsating LEDs glow red to make the graphics spring to life. And with the distinct Selective Voice Monitoring (SVM) feature, you have the option of hearing your own voice through the headset. Featuring independent game and voice volume controls to customize your gaming experience and a pair of high-fidelity speakers to enhance in-game acoustics, you get the control and power required for domination over the Locust Horde.
- Emblazed with official Gears of War 3 artwork
- Performance-tuned for Xbox LIVE® Voice Communication
- Immersive 3D Directional Audio using Dolby® Headphone Surround Sound
- Transmit Crystal-Clear Voice Commands to Your Squadron
- Independent Game and Voice Volume Controls
- Pulsating LED Lighting Effects
- Multi-function in-line control with breakaway design
- Detachable, flexible microphone with mute
- Digital optical input
- Precision-balanced 40mm audio drivers
- BONUS: Choose to Hear Your Own Voice Through the Headset with Selective Voice Monitoring (SVM)
- PACKAGE CONTENTS
- Dolby® 7.1 Surround Sound Headset
- Dolby Digital EX / Dolby Pro Logic IIX / Dolby Headphone Decoder Box
- In-Line Audio Control Module with Cable
- Removable Microphone
- Xbox LIVE® Communication Cable
- Optical Cable
- Digital Audio Adapter
- USB Cable
- Extra Earpad and Headrail Pad Set with Cap Removal Tool
- User Guide
- Quick Start Guide
- Dolby® Digital EX / Pro Logic IIX / Dolby Headphone Decoder
- 2 Full-Range 40mm Drivers
- Xbox LIVE® Communications Port
- THD: -97db
- SNR (Db/V): 106db
- Frequency Response: 20Hz–22kHz
- Sampling Frequency: 8kHz–192kHz
- Magnet Type: Neodymium
- Ear Coupling: Noise Isolating Circumaural
Gears of War 3 Performance Stereo Gaming Headset for Xbox 360®
Price - $99.99
TRITTON’s Gears of War 3 Performance Stereo Headset sets a new standard for gaming headsets. Connecting to the Xbox 360 console via USB and equipped with a host of innovative features, notable attributes include an advanced communication system with independent game and voice volume controls. With the distinct Selective Voice Monitoring (SVM) feature, you have the option of hearing your own voice through the headset. Precision-balanced speakers provide rich, full stereo audio, while the detachable, flexible microphone— optimized for transmissions over Xbox LIVE —delivers crystal-clear voice commands to your squadron.
- Emblazed with official Gears of War 3 artwork
- Noise isolating headset with adjustable headrail and plush padding
- Choose to hear your own voice through the headset with Selective Voice Monitoring (SVM)
- Independent game and voice volume controls
- Multi-function in-line control with breakaway design
- Detachable, flexible microphone with mute
- Precision-balanced 40mm audio drivers
- PACKAGE CONTENTS
- Performance Stereo Gaming Headset
- In-Line Audio Controller
- Removable Microphone
- Xbox LIVE® Communication Cable
- RCA Cable Adapter
- Analog A/V HDMI Adapter
- User Guide
- Xbox LIVE® Communications Port
- 2 Full-Range 40mm Drivers
- Magnet Type: Neodymium
- THD: -97db
- SNR (Db/V): 106db
- Frequency Response: 25Hz–22kHz
- Resistance: 32Ω
- Ear Coupling: Noise Isolating Circumaural
Gears of War 3 Throat Communicator for Xbox 360®
Price - $29.99
Transmit clear-clear voice commands to your squadron with the Gears of War 3 Throat Communicator for Xbox 360. Utilizing a military-inspired behind-the-neck design, skirmishes become immersive as you go head-to-head with hostiles on Xbox LIVE. Lightweight, comfortable, and complete with an adjustable neckband boasting foam-rubber inserts for a custom fit, the Throat Communicator provides hands-free messaging for warriors of all sizes.
- Officially licensed for Gears of War 3
- Military-inspired behind-the-neck design
- Customizable neckband with foam-rubber inserts
- Transparent sound tube blends in with surroundings
- Provides lightweight, comfortable hands-free messaging
- Crystal-clear communication and sound quality
- Integrated volume/mute controls
- Perfect for use with Xbox LIVE®
Tuesday, 19 July 2011
Zenonia 3 Free on Android Marketplace!
Just a quick update. I saw Zenonia 3 on the Android Marketplace today for Free, while the first two remain priced at $0.99. This game is ad supported. I would pick this up as soon as possible, before they decide to change it to a one time purchase like the first two. Click the link on your mobile phone, or use the QR code found below to download the game on to you Android phone.
Developer - Gamevil
Publisher - Gamevil
Platform - iOS, Android
Genre - Action RPG
MetaCritic Score - 70
Chael, the adopted son of the first Zenonia game's protagonist Regret, tries to find his way home after being transported against his will into another dimension, called Midgard, or the middle realm. On his quest, he is accompanied by a girl from the Divine Tribe called Celine, and a sarcastic fairy named Runa.
"Mega Man Legends 3 Cancelled" - Gregaman
Megaman Legends 3, the Action RPG that so many of us had looked forward to for years, has been cancelled. According to "Gregaman" on the Capcom-Unity Forums, the game has been cancelled due to not meeting certain criteria (possibly not enough fan anticipation or projected sales). This serves as a huge loss to the action RPG genre. With all the advancements in the genre since the last iteration, I could have only imagined how this game would have turned out, even though it was only going to be on the 3DS. Lets hope in the future this game will get some next-gen console justice. Read Gregamans statement after the break.
"A Message from Capcom
Monday, July 18, 2011, 8:02 PM [General]
We'd like to thank you for your ongoing loyal support of Mega Man Legends 3. Today, however, we must regrettably announce the discontinuation of this project.
From the outset the MML3 Project was intended to give gamers across the world insight and input into the development process. Part of this process includes an assessment of whether the title will go into full production, and is based on a number of criteria with input from different sectors of the company.
Unfortunately it was not felt that the Mega Man Legends 3 Project met the required criteria, and it is with regret that we must announce that the Mega Man Legends 3 Project has been cancelled, meaning that Capcom will not be releasing the Prototype or the full game. Additionally, updates of the Mega Man Legends Developer Room will cease as of today, though the North American Developer Room and its forums will remain open indefinitely.
We can only express our deepest apologies to all of you who have lent us your unending support, including participation in the Mega Man Legends 3 Developer Room. On behalf of the entire Legends team, please accept our sincere apology for failing to meet the expectations of the fans.
We thank you all so much for your extended support of this title and this community, and we hope that you will continue to support the Mega Man franchise as well as other Capcom games.
If you have any questions, please see the FAQ below.
Q: Are there plans to restart the Mega Man Legends 3 Project in the future?
A: Currently there are none.
Q: I want to maintain contact with the people I met through the Devroom.
A: The Dev Room will remain open in a limited capacity, so you can PM those people now and in the future.
Q: Is there a chance the ideas recruited in the Devroom will be used in future games?
A: No, I am afraid not.
Q: Will it be okay to upload the ideas we contributed to the Devroom elsewhere?
A: Yes, you may reuse your ideas elsewhere, including those ideas that were selected as winners in Devroom events.
Q: Will the people whose ideas were supposed to go in the game receive something else instead?
A:Yes, those whose ideas were to be implemented in the game will receive a commemorative gift, which will be shipped at a later date.
Q.Can you please give me more information on why the MML3 project was cancelled so close to the launch of the Prototype?
A. The project was cancelled for the reasons outlined in the statement.
Q.Will the Prototype Version still be distributed via the Nintendo eShop?
A.No it will not.
Q.Is the cancellation of MML3 related to the departure of Inafune-san?
A. The cancellation of the MML3 project is in no way related to Inafune-san leaving the company.
Q. This is the second Mega Man game cancelled this year, what does this mean for the future of the Mega Man Franchise?
A. Mega Man is still an important franchise within Capcom’s portfolio and we will continue to pursue opportunities to create new titles in the series.
Q. The Dev Room was a place where fans were supposed to be deeply involved in the creation of this product, why were they not involved in the decision to cancel this product?
A. We thank all those who were involved in the Developer Room, but the decision to continue or cancel the MML3 ultimately had to be made by Capcom.
Q. What will happen to the ideas and input participants have given to the Dev Room?
A. Content will remain viewable on the Devroom, but will not be utilized for any future projects.
Q. Will there be any future projects that involve fan participation in this manner? Or was this a one time experiment?
A. We will certainly continue to welcome suggestions and comments from Capcom’s community on current and future titles although right now there are no projects with plans to replicate the same level of interaction.
Sunday, 17 July 2011
L.A Noire on sale at Amazon For only $37 - QUICK!
L.A Noire, the 1940's film-noire style detective thriller has been spotted on Amazon.com (and.ca, for those who are wondering) for only $37. That's an amazing deal. I'd jump on this as soon as possible. The amazon listing can be found here (L.A. Noire)
for all three consoles. For Canadian residents, the game comes to around $47 after shipping and taxes, still a good $15 off of retail price.Developer - Team Bondi - Rockstar Games
Publisher - Rockstar Games
Platform - Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Genre - Open world, third-person shooter, action-adventure
Modes - Single-player
Metacritic Score - 89
User Score - 77
L.A Noire takes place in 1947 Los Angeles, a city of glamour, fame, and wealth, but also where crime, vice, and corruption are rife. The player assumes the role of LAPD Police Officer and later Detective Cole Phelps. The game starts with Phelps as a uniformed patrolman, and follows his career as he advances through the police department bureaus of Traffic, Homicide, Vice, and finally Arson. Each new desk gives the player a new partner who will help Phelps in his investigations.
The game blends investigative elements such as mystery and crime solving, with fast-paced action sequences, including on-foot and car chases, hand-to-hand combat, and gunfights. In addition to the storyline missions, the player can work on optional side-investigations following a call from dispatch, known as Street Crimes. The player can travel on foot, as well as in various cars that are unlocked as Phelps progresses through the police departments. The player also has a total of ten detective suits available; an initial six, plus another four downloadable ones. The suits are equipped with special abilities, such as increased damage protection and increased aim when firing a gun.
If the player is having trouble completing the action sequences, after three failed attempts, they will have the option to skip past and continue through the narrative.
Unlike Rockstar's Grand Theft Auto series, the player cannot freely create chaos and kill civilians with weapons and cars, as the character is a police detective. Weapons are only allowed in appropriate circumstances and only when a player is working on a case where a weapon is warranted.
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