The Wii U Experience

With my last few posts, some of you probably think that I hate the Wii U.  It's actually quite the opposite.  I like the Wii U.  I'm just a little upset with the way that Nintendo presented it.  At E3 2011, a lot of non-gamers mistook the Wii U as an add on accessory for the original Wii console.  Why was that?  Well, despite Nintendo's "hardcore" presentation, they failed to show the actual console itself in the presentation.  At E3 2012, Nintendo was like "Oops, hey guys, we ARE making a new console!"  As you can see in my last post, E3 2012 wasn't exactly good for Nintendo either.  Fast forward to now, Nintendo has everything set in stone for the Wii U, and the next console generation will finally begin.

I already covered what the Wii U was capable of.  So let me just go over what was changed about it since I last talked about it in January. 

•  The Wii U is releasing in two versions: A Basic Set that is $300 which includes the console, the Wii U gamepad, sensor bar, and hookups (even a HDMI cable).  And a deluxe set that is $350 and includes everything I said above except it's Black, comes with the game Nintendoland, a Wii U stand, and some eShop bonuses.
• The Wii U will have a wireless pro controller that will last up to 80 hours.  This controller is said to last a whopping 80 hours.  The controller layout is very similar to the Xbox 360 controller.
•  IT HAS NO FRIEND CODES.  Yes, I was required to put this in caps.  The console will have Nintendo ids.  Praise da lord.
• The Wii U Console has four USB ports, and will be able to expand on the existing 32 GB memory with a SD card or an external hard drive (up to 2 TB).
• The Wii U is slightly longer than the original Wii console.  I didn't notice how long it was until it was until I saw it at GameStop.

The Wii U and original Wii Console (from Ign.com)

Back in July, I managed to get an invite to a Wii U Experience event in Washington, DC.  The event had a lot of E3 2012 builds of several Wii U launch titles.  I only tried out three games: Zombi U, Nintendoland, and Pikmin 3.  Before I go on about the games, let me talk about the controller.

The Wii U Experience event in Washington DC back in late July

The Wii U Controller

The Wii U controller is interesting.  If you have not seen it, it’s basically an iPad Mini with buttons and a smaller screen.  The screen however is still only a touch screen with single touch, meaning you can't do all of the fancy multi touch features that most smartphones are well known for using today.  It's not a big deal, but a bit of a bummer in my opinion (to note the 3DS that was released last year did not have a multi touch screen either).  The Wii U also has the same motion control technology that the Wii remote has, but it does not require a sensor bar (but one is included with the Wii U console in the United States).  This means you do not have to be facing the TV at all times, like you did with the Wii.  The technology that is the selling point (or gimmick as some like to say) is how you can play Wii U games without a TV.  Sadly, this feature was not available at the Wii U experience event.  When I asked about the feature to the woman in charge of coaching people in Pikmin 3, she had no idea that the Wii U even had this feature.  After describing it to her, she said to me: "I don't think that works, do you want me to ask my boss?" I kindly declined, but it worried me since the console was only three months away from launch at that time. 

The Games

The Wii U Experience had a lot of games.  But it also had a lot of lines, and a lot of game hogs.  That aside, I chose not to play games such as Super Mario Bros. U and Wii Fit U because they weren't offering anything new.  I also ignored ports of current games on display such as Batman: Arkham City Armored Edition and Ninja Gaiden 3: Razor's Edge.  The first game I tried out was Zombi U. 

Zombi U

Zombi U is a shooter with some survival horror mechanics thrown in it.  Think of how Resident Evil used to be without all of the stupid quick time events (QTEs). The level I played in the demo was somewhat linear, but was still pretty fun.  Thanks to the guy in charge of the game, he coached me on what to do/not do.  The game has a Metroid Prime like scanner system that scans any object around you for items and whatnot.  The coolest thing about it was how you can go 360 degrees with the controller to scan items.  The movement in the game is thankfully done with the joystick on the controller.  The game required me to find a key which made me backtrack a little (remember when games did that? lol), and the man in charge of the game kept constantly warning me of the stupid  nurse zombie that I would be encountering soon.  Needless to say, my body was ready.  The zombies that I encountered were relatively easy to kill.  The guy coaching me as surprised on how many headshots I pulled off and mentioned to me that no one else that night was even trying to shoot them in the head.  That's scary in itself.  Overall, from what I played, I liked Zombi U.

Nintendoland

Nintendoland at the Wii U Experience

Remember how Wii Play on the original Wii felt more like a glorified tech demo than a game?  Well, can you guess what Nintendoland is?  The exact same thing... sort of.  Nintendoland is basically a collection of mini games that are basically demonstrating on what the Wii U controller can do.  While this is cool, the only thing I have a problem with is how Nintendo is not offering this game for free with every Wii U console.  The only version of the console in the United States that offers it for free is the deluxe version of the console.  Everyone else that buys the slightly cheaper Basic set has to fork out an outrageous $60 for the game.  Nintendoland for the most part has some decent multiplayer games on it.  The ones I played were the Luigi's Mansion, Animal Crossing, and the Ninja star mini games. 

I very briefly played the same Ninja star game.  I was actually very disappointed in it because the control felt like it wasn't right and while flinging ninja stars with the Wii U controller's touch screen was cool, I was having a ton of trouble actually hitting anything.  After I noticed that it was nearly impossible to hit anything with the very limited amount of time I had (between each target), I ended up just shooting a million ninja stars at every enemy which made it impossible for me to miss.  Did I mention it had no limit on how many I could throw?  I guess that was cool.  I suppose my character was a very over prepared ninja since it felt like I threw about a thousand ninja stars by the end of the game.  Long story short, I didn't like it. 

The second game I tried out was the Luigi's Mansion mini game.  This game has four players.  Three Mii Players (with Luigi hats on) and a ghost player.  Three players play via the TV on Wii remotes while one player plays as the ghost on the Wii U controller.  The game takes place in a dark room where the three players playing via the TV have flashlights while the rest of the room is completely dark.  The player with the Wii U controller can see the entire room.  The goal of the game as the luigi players is to point your flashlight at the ghost.  The light hurts the ghost and it will eventually die if you point the light(s) at it for too long.  The ghost on the other hand has to sneak up on every Luigi and knock them down.  Once a player is down, they have to be revived by a fellow player.  To add more challenge to the game, each Luigi can also run out of battery life on their flashlights which also make them vulnerable to enemy attacks, but thankfully, many batteries are scattered throughout the room.  I had the chance to play as both roles in the game (and winning both)!  Honestly, I had a ton of fun with this game.  I felt it was fun playing each role, and that the players playing as the Luigis had to rely on team work to survive and to kill the ghost, while the player playing as the ghost had to strategize on when to attack a player that was away from other players, or had a dead flashlight.  Overall, this is by far my favorite game that I played from the demo version of Nintendoland.

The last game I tried out in Nintendoland was the Animal Crossing mini game.  While I'm a huge fan of the Animal Crossing series, I was actually saddened on how badly this mini game turned out.  Basically, think of how the Luigi's Mansion game I mentioned was like in terms on how people played the game.  Three people play with Wii remotes on the TV and one person plays the bad guy on the Wii U controller screen.  For the people playing as the Mii animals on the wii remotes, they basically have to pick up as much candy as they can.  But the person playing on the Wii U controller has to control the police dogs from the Animal Crossing games.  While this may sound easy, the hardest part is controlling one dog per analog stick.  I had a lot of trouble playing the role of the police dogs on the Wii U controller because even if you control both dogs at once going in one direction, it is still really hard to control both dogs at once.  Needless to say, it wasn't as bad as the ninja star game, but I didn't like it.

Pikmin 3

Pikmin 3 at the Wii U Experience

I really don't have too much to say about Pikmin 3 because it was more of the same.    If you played the Wii versions of Pikmin 1 & 2, Pikmin 3 controls exactly the same as the last games. While I never was a huge fan of the Pikmin series, I really enjoyed my time with Pikmin 3.  The graphics were a huge step up from the previous games, and I had a blast with the boss battle that I had at the end of the demo.  For fans of the series, I think you'll love it.  As for myself, I'll wait for it to drop in price.

To conclude...

I was on the fence about buying a Wii U at first. Amazingly enough, the thing that pulled me over was seeing a trailer for Tekken Tag Tournament 2 with Mario characters.  And while thinking about that, I thought how amazing Mario, Zelda, and Smash Bros. will be and how amazing all of those games will look in HD and with next gen (or I guess I should say this gen?  Whatever, lol) graphics. 

I reserved the Wii U Deluxe Set the day the release date was announced, and I'm glad I did because the console seems to be almost impossible to reserve now.  I'll be back with my impressions of the final hardware and the final versions of the games I'll be playing. 

I will have Nintendoland, New Super Mario Bros. U, Zombi U, and Tekken Tag Tournament 2.  I also have the Wii U pro controller on the way as well.

As one final bonus, I saw a Wii U setup in Wal Mart a few nights ago.  I took some HD video of the controller in action.  Sadly no games were playable on it (only videos).  Enjoy!

I'll be getting my Wii U on Sunday morning!  Stay tuned, and thanks for reading!

Top 5 issues that kill PCs

NOTE AND OPINION: Before anything, this article is something I've wanted to do for years.  Besides working, nerding out, and going to UBalt, I typically keep up to date in all things tech.  I love technology.  I love computers.  I like shiny things.  I've been dealing with the lovely Windows operating system for well over a decade now, and as you already know, it isn't perfect.  Recently, a lot of people have gone Mac.  While that's great, going Mac is typically something a person does when they are sick of PCs.  Why are they sick of PCs?  Well, some have valid reasons such using a Mac for media purposes, such as for music or video editing.  Hey, that's great, I'm proud of these guys.  If I spent well over 1k on a computer, I damn well better be using it for something cool.  But as for the majority of the people that became prey to viruses and other PC related issues, I have little sympathy for you.  If you still are using a PC, then this list is for you! If not then go back your Mac (or Linux if you're cool) and enjoy your day.
---

For several years, I've been clearing out issues on computers for my friends and family.  Being computer illiterate in 2012 is a very dangerous thing and is like driving a car without a license.  You would be amazed on how many of the simplest issues that I've seen most people do throughout the years that made them vulnerable to viruses and several other computer related issues.  So after doing this, I thought to myself: Why not make a top 5 list of the things that kill PCs the most?  So I did, and here we are! ;)

Keep in mind; this is not aimed towards any person.  Don't be ashamed if you done any of the things I've listed below.  I give suggestions on what to do and what to use on if you have been guilty on any of these issues.  Think of this as more of a guide for preventing and fixing this issues, rather than a top 5 list that is making fun of computer illiterate people (because it isn't).

5. Don't be stupid.

Before handing over your computer to a tech savy person, the easiest way to solve a problem is tell them what you were doing to get the virus.  For most males the cause of most issues is either porn or pirated media.  For women, it's usually an online advertisement or installing software such as screen savers or secret squirrel software that lets them know who is viewing their Facebook profile (it doesn't exist).

I recommend/suggest:

1. Stream it, don't download it.  This goes for any music or video you stream from "shady" sites.  If you absolutely have to keep on using these sites, streaming media is less likely to harm your computer.  Also if these sites ever ask you to download a codec or anything at all, don't do it.

2. Get a job or a Netflix/Gamefly subscription.  If you like to pirate music, you might as well suck it up and either start using something like Spotify or if you like to keep your music, use iTunes.  If you still are using P2P software, please uninstall it now.

You can download all of the software I mentioned below:
Netflix: http://www.netflix.com
Gamefly: http://www.gamefly.com
Spotifty: http://www.spotify.com/
iTunes: http://www.apple.com/itunes/download/

(Yes, people will pirate and be virus free, but this guide is not promoting piracy)

3. If it's too good to be true, use common sense and ignore it (this includes phlishing scams claiming that an alien has abducted your account(s)).

4. Don't let software get outdated

Every day, hackers are finding loopholes within Windows, Internet Explorer, Flash, Java, etc.  Not updating your computer with Windows updates or disabling updates is the equivalent of saying "come at me bro" to a horde of zombies.  You just don't do it.

I recommend:
1. Turning on automatic updates within Windows Update.  If you turned this off for whatever reason, turn it back on ASAP.  It nags you for a reason.  Not sure how to do this?  Follow this guide: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/306525

2. Install Filehippo.com's Update Checker (http://filehippo.com/updatechecker/) - You won't regret it and it checks for updates on software when you start up Windows.

3. If Filehippo isn't your thing, most problems typically have a "Check for updates" option.  Make sure this is ALWAYS checked off in the preferences of the software and most programs will usually inform you after you start it up that an update is available.  Don't ignore them!  Install them ASAP!!

3. Do not buy/use Antivirus software if you don't plan on renewing the subscription (but still use one).

Did you ever wonder why most people typically get viruses after about 6 months (or a year) after they get a PC?  It's because they ignore Norton or whatever crap program a computer manufacturer installed on their PC and as soon as the trial runs out.  While some of these programs are great, most of them usually require a pricey renewal fee which will likely be ignored by the user.  This usually results in the software turning off or disabling updates.  You're saying come at me bro to the crazed infected people from Resident Evil 4 (if you never played it, use your imagination), along with the insane chainsaw guy from that game.  Again, YOU JUST DON'T DO IT.

I recommend:
Microsoft Security Essentials (http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows/security-essentials-all-versions) - It's free and it works.  No nagging either, so it's great.
AVG Anti Virus (http://free.avg.com/us-en/homepage) - AVG likes to nag you a bit, but still works well to this day.
Avast! Anti Virus Software (http://www.avast.com/free-antivirus-download) - It oddly requires a yearly free subscription for no reason, and it will scare the crap out of you with its creepy robotic voice when it updates or if something is up.  I recommend turning the sound off, but other than that, it works.

My friend, Dave has recommended Comodo Security.  I haven't tried it, but I'm sure it works great.  It's also free.  You can get it here: http://www.comodo.com/home/internet-security/free-internet-security.php

2. Clean your computer hardware.

If you manage to do everything that I've listed above, you may be one of the many who like to let their computer collect dust.  Computers are typically put up against walls and usually collect dust at an alarming rate.  Learn how to open up your PC (it's like opening a car hood, it's too easy) and clean out your computer with a can of compressed air every 3-6 months.  This ensures your computer's fans will not get clogged up with dust and will not overheat or "die".  Some of you are probably afraid to do this, but man up, and do it already.  Your computer will thank you.

I suggest:
1 can of compressed air (easily obtainable at Wal Mart and other retail stores)

1. Scan for viruses weekly and defrag your computer.

This is far by the thing that almost nobody does until a problem hits.  Just as a protip, some tricky viruses have a habit of blocking antivirus programs from removing it.  You know why?  It's probably because you didn't follow #4.  You didn't update it.  And with that said, the version you are using will become completely useless once an actual virus rolls in.  The advantage of scanning a PC weekly for viruses is that you will likely catch smaller things such as trojans before they have the opportunity to start more trouble.  As for defragging, almost nobody does this due to taking a very long time to complete.  But let me ask you this: Do you have a job?  Do you sleep?  Do you go to school/college?  If you answered yes to any of these, then you can defrag your computer when you are doing any of these.  You have no excuse besides laziness.

I recommend:
If you already have Microsoft Security Essentials, you can use that for scanning for viruses.  I also suggest:

Malwarebytes Anti Malware (http://www.malwarebytes.org/) - Is updated daily and it gets rid of some of the nastiest viruses I've ever seen (rouge anti-viruses are the worst).  It's free and it works!

My friend, Dave has also recommended another Comodo product, Comodo Anti Virus which is also free and has worked great for him.  You can get it here: http://www.comodo.com/home/internet-security/antivirus.php

Defraggler (http://www.piriform.com/defraggler) - This is a small step up from Microsoft's defragging software.  Sure, it takes a while to work, but it gets the job done.  If you don't like it, the Microsoft version works too; you can find it on computer by using the search bar (Windows Vista/7/8).  If you do not have the search bar on Windows XP, follow this guide: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/314848

CCleaner (http://www.piriform.com/ccleaner) - While this really doesn't go under anti virus or defragging, it's a great tool to use to clean out unneeded temporary files that slowly accumulate as the years go by.  I'd suggest using this every other week.


PROTIPS:
1.  Have a software issue, or does something seem "off"?  Use System Restore!
Windows XP: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/306084
Windows Vista/7: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/products/features/system-restore

2. Use the same password for everything?  Don't!  Make your passwords at least 12 characters long and hard to guess.  Using one capital letter or a symbol within it also helps.  Using the same password for everything is one of the most dangerous things you can do on the internet.

3. Not using your computer?  Shut it down!  Unless you are leaving the computer on to do something (like downloading stuff), then turn it off.  Also, only use the hibernate or sleep options only if you coming back to the computer in that same day.  Do not use it constantly.

4. Not sure what you're doing?  Google it!  Seriously, it solves nearly everything you can think of!
http://www.google.com

E3 2012 and more

Hey, guys.  I know it's been a while since my last blog.  I seem to always forget I have one even though I have so much on my mind about the industry.  Since January, I finished up my Associate's degree (was technically done in December but needed a math class and 2 extra credits to graduate, so I did an internship) and now I'm starting on my Bachelor’s in the fall at the University of Baltimore.  With that said, I'm also still gaming.  I've been out of school since early May and I been catching up on my massive backlog of games, movies, and anime.  In February, I did get a Playstation Vita and I also have obtained many other 3DS/Vita games since then as well.

First off:

1. The Playstation Vita had a terrible launch and will likely end the year in misery. 

This honestly isn't much of a shocker.  The Vita is a powerful portable, but it had the same two problems that plagued the 3DS at launch as well: A lack of good games and a high price point.  At this time, I have five Vita games, and I just picked up Gravity Rush (great game) and Mortal Kombat (great port for the most part). 

Yeah, about that...

None of my friends I know own one yet and I personally think if the upcoming Call of Duty game for the system doesn't sell a ton, the Vita is sadly done for.  I can't think of any killer app for the Vita as of this point, and while Uncharted was great, it really doesn't keep you coming back after you've beaten it.

2. People are finally buying the 3DS because it now has good games and a lower price.

Just as I said above, the 3DS's second year has so far been great.

Looks like we're getting a bonus this year, woo hoo!

A lot of big games are hitting in the fall, and I feel 3DS sales will without a doubt blow the Vita out of the water this holiday season.  I also wish I wanted a year to buy one, but hey, I like new shiny things when they come out, but oh well.

And now for the main part of the article:

E3 2012 was terrible because the "Big 3" is holding out on their new consoles new year

Everyone should have known this before the show, but E3 was a total crapfest this year.  A lot of good games got some nice trailers (The Last of Us, Resident Evil 6, Halo 4, the God of War prequel sequel whatever game, etc.) but every conference was pretty boring.  Sony really had nothing new to offer, and Microsoft is basically ripping off the Wii U controller with its new Smartglass, go figure.

Nintendo even failed at trying to sell the Wii U to gamers.  It sure did better than last year (most people thought the Wii U was a new controller for the Wii since they never showed the system), so Nintendo finally acknowledged that "yes, we got a new console on the way!" but the games were for the most part were either on other consoles, or they weren't that great.  Everyone would agree that Nintendo is FINALLY getting on the ball for making this console for the "hardcore" gamer, but the problem is, we already have hardcore game consoles, therefore, I and many other gamers don't care about it.  

Come back tomorrow... we'll show you "more", we swear!

They had several conferences at E3 (compared to just one) and most of it was just fluff and apologizing to us that they had "no time".  Their main presentation was all Wii U and constantly told us to come back tomorrow for more stuff, and the 3DS was put on the backburner despite the system only being one year old.  Ouch.  The 3DS conference the next night was even worse and barely showed us anything that we didn't already know about.  It was just a massive waste of everyone's time for something that could have been done in 15 minutes at the main conference.  The kicker was that they held back announcements even after everything was over, and the Wii U still has no price or release date.  For that Nintendo, you made your E3 suck. 

Next year, I know E3 will be obviously be better.  But Nintendo is going to be in trouble selling the Wii U in general.  Since it's a year ahead of the upcoming Playstation and Xbox consoles, it best sell itself now before people are wowed but the "real" next generation of game consoles.  

Magfest X

Hey, guys.  Over the weekend, I attended my first Magfest in National Harbor, MD.  This is actually the 10th Magfest so it felt pretty cool to be there at probably the best Magfest yet.  

If you aren't aware what Magfest is, it's basically a music and video game festival.  It started up a few years back, and I remember first hearing about it on a Screwattack podcast way back in 2007.  I was psyched that the convention was close to me, but due to a lack of funds and it being at bad times (new years, conflicting with work/school, etc), I never had the opportunity to attend one. This years Magfest was actually at a new location and was almost guaranteed that it wouldn't sell out this time.

With that said, I did some planning, and managed to make it for 1 of the 4 days (Saturday), since Saturday almost always has all of the big events planned on it.  One of the first things I did was attend a panel for a site I heard of a few years back known as Retroware.tv.  These guys are somewhat similar to the current trend of websites that are a sort of portal to gaming related shows.  The guys were really laid back, but they also knew their stuff.  They showed off some videos (with a rather amusing Pro Wrestling inspired announcement to their new free app), and even a preview of their upcoming big show, The Video Game Years.  It looked really interesting and I'll check it out in the future.  

That said, I think the most interesting show that stuck out to me (between all of their shows) was the one called The Game Chasers.  Basically a group of two friends go around Texas searching for rare video games. I found this pretty interesting since I've done like this myself (see my Pawn shop review posts in 2009) and I was really wow'ed at all of the things they did to obtain retro games and systems.  The guys aren't just all about business though, the show also has some really amusing moments such as Jay (one of the Game Chasers) running around a town with a Tigger costume on.  Sure it's random, but the duo joking around with each other actually gives the show some very good comic relief, not to mention the small arguments they get into when they debate on who will buy a certain game.  

Later on, one of my favorite game related bands, The Minibosses did a live show at the convention.  I only got to listen to two of their songs due to The Angry Video Nerd's (James Rolfe's) Q&A being only a few minutes after their concert ended, so I left the concert early so I could wait in line.  While I was in the huge line, I saw Final Fantasy composer, Nobuo Uematsu, and his new band, the Earthbound Papas.  I managed to snap a quick picture of them before they went back into the back room.

James Rolfe's Q&A was pretty cool, he answered as many questions as he possibly could.  I thought of a random question for the heck of it.  I asked him how he made the replica cartridge for the Nintendo World Championships review (he tricked the audience in a review that he broke the game).  If you don't know, the gold cartridges of the game are referred to being one of the most rarest games of all time due to them being at the only Nintendo World Championship that was held over two decades ago.  He later had an autograph signing at the dealer's room.  I got him to sign my NES copies of Mega Man 2 and Friday the 13th.  

The last thing I did was seeing the main event: The Earthbound Papas concert.  This concert was insanely awesome, especially if you are a gamer.  Nobuo Uematsu and his band rocked their hearts out and played many memorable songs from the Final Fantasy games and various other games/shows that Uematsu and his band have worked on.  One minute, gamers were furiously headbanging and throwing each other around, and the next, they were holding up lighters and cell phones.  I was actually near the end of crowd so I couldn't see much of anything, but was still really awesome to have the chance to see them in concert.

All in all, Magfest X was a real awesome experience for me.  I'm glad that I got to go this year, and I'm looking forward to see what Magfest XI will deliver to gamers next year.  

Welcome to 2012 Part 3 - Upcoming Games

Welcome to my final part of my “Welcome to 2012” series… this final part is all about the upcoming games of 2012.  Please remember, I’m probably not going to cover every game that you maybe hyped for, but these are a few games that either caught my eye or I am really looking forward to this year.  I’ll range the games from the ones I know the least about to the ones I’m most excited for.  The following games will start with the name, platform(s), release date, the publisher, and then will follow with a paragraph that will contain my thoughts of the game.

Rhythm Thief and the Emperor's Treasure (3DS, February, Sega)

Rhythm Thief probably won’t be a game I’ll get when it comes out, but from the trailer, it’s looking a lot like the DS games Ouendan and Elite Beat Agents.  Even though these types of games are often pretty addictive, the killer is that you can usually beat these types of games in a day or two.  If it does get good reviews, I’ll probably pick it up next month if I’m not broke (darn you, Vita)!

Luigi’s Mansion 2 (3DS, TBA 2012, Nintendo)

Luigi’s Mansion was a launch title 10 years ago on the Gamecube.  Since then, gamers have been begging Nintendo to make a sequel, and they have finally delivered.  If you’re not sure what Luigi’s Mansion was, I really can’t blame you as it was a pretty obscure game.  Just think of it as Ghostbusters, just solo.  At E3 it was revealed that the game will more or less be like the previous one, which was Luigi hunting down ghosts in a haunted mansion, but this time around, he’ll be going to more mansions instead of just one.  A release date has not been announced at this time, but the original was pretty fun, so I’m looking forward to seeing more of this game soon.

Syndicate (Multiplatform, February, EA)

Syndicate was originally a series of PC games made by an old EA studio known as Bullfrog.  I remember these guys mostly for Theme Park and Theme Hospital.  Both games which let you build your own park or hospital and were really fun.  I never played any of the original Syndicate games but apparently it was some sort of isometric shooter.   That aside, Bullfrog is gone and dead, but the series has been revived by EA.  According to the trailers, the game seems to be like the recent Deus Ex: Human Revolution but with co-op on the side.  I might rent this one first as it seems a bit steep to buy a $60 game without knowing too much about it, but at this time, I have some pretty high hopes for it.

Twisted Metal (PS3, February, Sony)

Twisted Metal is also a reboot for the original series of games on the Playstation. I was a big fan of the first two games on the original Playstation, but the last two weren’t that great.  I never played Twisted Metal Black on PS2, but I guess it’s good that Sony decided to make it free to whoever buys this game, so now I can play it.  The trailer of the game is pretty darn cool.  It’s obvious that Sweet Tooth is back, but the trailer just mainly showed him blowing crap up.  Some gamers seem pretty concerned that even though a lot of the vehicles are returning, a lot of the old characters from previous games are strangely absent.  Regardless, I’m looking forward to see what this game has to offer.

Hot Shots Golf: World Invitational (Vita, February, Sony)

If you know me, I’m not exactly a fan of sports games, In fact, I kind of loathe them.  Mainly because most sports games are developed in a year and are usually roaster updates from the game before it.  I was never a sports guy, but I tend to get into sports games that aren’t related to any of the yearly franchises such as NBA Jam & NFL Blitz.  I also enjoyed original sports games (not based on real sports teams) such as Mario Golf and Hot Shots Golf: Open Tee. The reason why these games are good is that they usually don’t require you to all about the sport before playing it.  The game may actually deviate from the rules of the game, but it’s usually for the sake of making the game more enjoyable.  I enjoyed the PSP game from this series, so I’m pretty sure the Vita version will be just as good.  The trailer showed off some gimmicky features which I think isn’t necessary, but I’m sure the game will offer traditional controls as well.

Tekken 3D: Prime Edition (3DS, February, Namco Bandai)

I’m actually a pretty big fan of the whole Tekken series.  The problem with this franchise lately is that every game after Tekken 5 has been more or less the same game, and that every game after 5 has had less and less new features, not to mention, everything has to be tournament styled and have everything unlocked from the get-go (which I think seriously murders the replay value of any fighting game).  Tekken 3D has had one trailer and it basically just says “This is Tekken.  Nothing new to see here guys, just buy it, m’kay?” Complaints aside, Dead or Alive Dimensions was basically the same as its previous games, but was still a good game.  For whatever reason they are also including the hard to watch CG movie: Tekken: Blood Vengeance 3D.

Uncharted: Golden Abyss (Vita, February, Sony)

Uncharted is basically Indiana Jones meets Tomb Raider, but combines all of the cool aspects from each one into one game.  The series is already a trilogy on the PS3, and I played through a good bit of the first game, and the second game is still unopened on my shelf.  The Vita game is supposedly a prequel of sorts to the first game.   I really dig the exploration in these games, but not so much the gunfights as I feel they are somewhat clunky and feel more of like a distraction from the main game.  The Vita game promises to be more exploration… but I guess we’ll see.  Regardless, I have this pre ordered with my Vita.

Soul Calibur V (Multiplatform, TBA 2012, Namco Bandai)

Soul Calibur and I go way back to the original game on the Dreamcast.  The trailers aren’t showing off too much, but I’ll give it a go anyway.  Oh, and I’m thrilled to see that Namco finally got the hint that adding console exclusive characters was always a stupid idea.  The release date will probably be announced soon, likely at E3.

Kid Icarus: Uprising (3DS, March, Nintendo)

After seeing his appearance in Super Smash Bros. Brawl, everyone assumed that the Kid Icarus series would eventually get revived, and wouldn’t you know, it did.  The new game doesn’t seem to be anything like the older games, but I feel that might be a good thing.  The game seems be both an on rails shooter and a 3^rd person shooter (mixing it between levels).  The game has already had multiple gameplay and story trailers to it and is building a whole bunch of hype.  As of now, it’s looking like a day 1 purchase for me, and thankfully, this is actually not a February release (so I can don’t have to wait to buy it).  

Animal Crossing (the subtitle for it has not been revealed yet) – (3DS, TBA 2012, Nintendo)

The Animal Crossing series for me has always been probably one of the most sickeningly addictive games I have ever played.  If those of you that are unfamiliar with this series, you are forcefully thrown into mortgage debt, and in order to get out of it, you are forced to do repetitive errands, grow/find fruit, catch stuff, etc.  Now you’re probably thinking: “Chris, that all sounds stupid”, well you may be right.  But after doing this for an hour, it’s insanely addictive, and it’s why I must have this game the moment it comes out.  Because I must play it in order to fulfill my addiction to collecting garbage.

Addiction aside, according to an interview with the developers, they sort of got the hint the Animal Crossing: City Folk was exactly like its previous game with the exception of the small market they randomly added in (but of course it was called a city for whatever reason).  The 3DS version will add in more customization, as well as make you the mayor of your own town.  This means you can either become a freeloading junkie or you can help out the town and build useful things for the townspeople… or townsanimals.  

Resident Evil: Operation Raccoon City (Multiplatform, March, Capcom)

Resident Evil is a very well respected franchise for gamers.  This game is actually a non-canon game (meaning not related to the main game’s storyline) but is sort an alternate “what if” story that occurs during Resident Evil 2.  Basically Umbrella has a squad of guys who are out to kill any survivals in Raccoon City that may know about Umbrella’s involvement of the disaster that occurred there.  And what do ya know, we only have two survivals: RE2’s protagonists Leon Kennedy and Clare Redfield.  The game’s main objective is to kill Kennedy through any means necessary, but to get to him; they have to wipe out hordes of their own zombies.  According to the trailers, the game is co-op, like the Left 4 Dead series except its 3^rd person and that each character in the game has their own unique abilities.  The game is also offering a multiplayer mode where you can play as other popular Resident Evil characters such as Hunk and Jill Valentine. 

Resident Evil: Revelations (3DS, February, Capcom)

Now you maybe are wondering why this game made my #1.  Well, I honestly think it’s going be an awesome game.  This is probably the game that nearly every 3DS owner has been waiting for since it the teaser trailer was shown off back at E3.  The series is returning back to its roots, and is offering a new story (that’s supposedly canon, unlike Operation Raccoon City) that seems interesting.  The protagonists from the first Resident Evil are to be reunited, however, Chris Redfield is missing, and his last known location was on a ship full of zombies and various other monsters.  The recent trailer reveals more about the story, and we'll also exploring various other places such as a sunken city, all for the sake of finding a cure to a virus (sounds familiar, right?).  After seeing the graphics pulled off on the 3DS with The Mercenaries 3D, I’m looking forward to playing the crap out of Revelations went it hits next month.  To conclude, here’s the best trailer of the game, enjoy.

Welcome to 2012 Part 2 - Playstation Vita

After typing out the Wii U article, I should of technically made the Playstation Vita article first due to it coming out next month.. oh well.  Anyway, as I stated earlier, we have a second console coming out this year from Sony.  No, it's not the PS4, it's actually the successor to the Playstation Portable, otherwise known as the PSP.  It's hard to remember the PSP a lot in the states due to it being dominated by the Nintendo DS.  In Japan, the PSP's sales are usually very close to the Wii and DS's which may sound shocking, but this was probably the main reason why Sony decided to make a successor for the console. However, in America, a lot of people sort of forgot about the PSP.

 The final model of the PSP (PSP 3000)

The PSP had a lot of problems with it.  The UMD format was overall a complete and total failure.  Loading times were usually too long, the filesize on a UMD was smaller than a PS2 game, and it only had one analog stick.  Developers did however manage to make fantastic games on the console, but sadly, most of them were forgotten and still didn't sell so well.  Due to Nintendo's innovative push with the DS, Nintendo eventually pushed out the PSP , and after 2008, a lot of developers slowly dropped the console altogether (in the West mainly).

 

The launch model of the Playstation Vita

The Playstation Vita on the other hand shows that Sony got the hint that PSP sort of sucked.  As Sony infamously does, it always has to borrow a feature from it's competitors, and this time, it's with the touch screen.  However, Sony did use some of it's own innovation this time around to create a back touch pad on the console as well.  The Vita also has two analog sticks, which resolves the issue that I mentioned earlier from the original PSP console.

 A Playstation Vita Game Card and Memory Card

Speaking of fixing old issues, the Vita also uses a proprietary card format for not only it's games but also it's (mandatory) memory cards as well.  The good news is the games will now load way faster than games did on the PSP.  However, the memory cards are no longer the memory stick format that we used on the PSP, so this means we have to buy a memory card at launch.  Since the UMD format is gone and done with (and we don't want it back), this obviously means that it won't play PSP games via a UMD, but you will be able to play PSP games via your memory card through either your current Playstation Network collection of games, or by going through a UMD conversation program that requires a fee for you to get the digital version of your UMD PSP games.

 Actual screenshot from Uncharted: Golden Abyss

What made the Wii U article shorter is that 1. It's unreleased and 2. It has little to no known games at this time.  However, with the Vita, it's been out in Japan for roughly two weeks now, therefore, we know what to expect for next month's launch in the States.  One thing I forgot to mention about the Vita is what's inside.  The graphics are a huge leap up from the PSP's, some would even say that it's on par with the PS3's graphics as it's getting ports of some current console games as well.  I also forgot to mention the Vita will have two models in every region: A WiFi model and a 3G/WiFi model.  In the states, the 3G model is using AT&T's service.

All in all, the WiFi model of the Playstation Vita is competitively priced with 3DS's original launch price of $250, with the 3G/WiFi model being priced at $299.  The current launch lineup is looking pretty good, I myself, am looking forward to Uncharted: Golden Abyss, Hot Shots Golf: World Invitational, and Super Stardust Delta.

Welcome to 2012 Part 1 - Wii U

With the exception of the apocalypse (lol) happening this year, we are expecting a lot of good games to come out!  This year however starts with our first "next gen" console from Nintendo known as the Wii U. 

The current Wii U Prototype.

Odd name aside, the Wii U is obviously Nintendo's home console successor to the Wii.  Even though the Wii sold the most consoles last gen, it's arguably the console that few gamers kept coming back to.  Last year alone, the only "big" game was Skyward Sword from Nintendo.  After Nintendo's showing of the console at E3, reactions were mixed, and most people including myself, were honestly worried of the console's future.

What we know so far:

• Will feature current gen graphics (on par or somewhat better than 360/PS3 graphics)
• Is an actual "HD" console with 1080p
• Nintendo claims it's more geared to "hardcore" gamers
• Will be backwards compatible with all Wii games, but will not upscale them (The PS3 upscaled PS2 games until they removed backwards compatibility in future models)
• Wii also use the same Wii Remote, as well as most accessories (Wii Fit scale, nunchuk, etc)
• Promised to have better third party support

At E3, a lot of guys not only groaned at weird name, but they also weren't big fans of Nintendo's new controller.

The Wii U Controller

Now, remember what I said earlier?  That you could use the Wii remote if you wanted to?  Well, you better not sell them off when you buy the Wii U, because only one Wii U controller can be used on each Wii U console.  The controller is meant to be a sort of enhancement to games.  One example was that the controller can give you a certain edge against other players in the game (since the others are using the Wii Remote).  The think the best way to think of is like the second screen on the Nintendo DS.  The top screen was usually the screen where all of the gameplay happened, but the bottom screen would usually be used for secondary tasks such as item inventories, maps, etc.  I feel the Wii U controller's screen will probably be used for the same things.

The coolest feature of the Wii U however actually lies within the controller.  Few of you may remember the remote play option that the PS3 had with the PSP.  A few games let you play PS3 games remotely on the PSP.  While I never actually tried this feature myself, the Wii U is going all out on this sort of thing.  Apparently, all games will playable on the Wii U's controller without the need for a TV.  While this may sound very strange for a home console, it's what Nintendo is doing anyway.  So if you are in a situation where you have to give up the TV to the kids or something, you can resume your game on the controller.  It's a crazy feature, but I can't wait to see it in action.

With the exception of a few games that were previously announced for other consoles, Nintendo has yet to reveal anymore details about the console (such as a release date, price, first party launch titles, etc), but it is scheduled to be out by at least the end of this year.  Let's just hope that I don't get over hyped for this console like I did with the 3DS and it's terrible launch.