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2008-11-01T18:33:00.000-05:00

How come this blog, which we haven't updated in over a year, is now getting the views we wanted when we were actively posting? Please comment and tell us how you found this site and whether or not you like it. If we get a response, we will be more inclined to reactivate this blog, which we are currently considering. Thanks.

Review: Bioshock (360*)

2007-09-11T09:08:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 10/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 10/10
Overall- 10/10

Bioshock carries some heavy weight on its shoulders as it follows in the foot steps of System Shock 2, but since many gamers (mainly console gamers) missed out on System Shock 2, they didn't know what to expect. I must admit, I was one of those gamers. But, I must say, after playing Bioshock, I can assure you that it is a game that refreshes the shooter genre. Bioshock boasts wonderfully detailed visuals and superbly fun game play, as well, it is obvious that Bioshock has a very powerful, high quality design to it. With such strengths, Bioshock is a strong contender for game of the year.

As I plopped Bioshock in for the first time, I was rather excited. Quite thankfully, I can say my excitement was for good reason as my high expectations were surpassed. The graphics were certainly one of the most polished parts of the game. Everything is in superb detail with a wonderful and realistic use of color and light. As well, the over all visuals are surprisingly clear and crisp, making it very easy to be immersed into the game's dark world. The design of the game itself is very original and very pleasing. The splicers, your main enemies, truly look like raving, murderous monsters that once used to be a part of human civilization. The Big Daddies and the Rosies (a different kind of Big Daddy) are one of my favorite character designs in Bioshock. Their armor-like, old-school underwater suits portray a very powerful and prominent creature in Bioshock. Quite basically, the designs are so successful that you know a fight between you, a Big Daddy, and a group of raving Splicers defines disaster.

The sound is another refined part of Bioshock's environment. The developers really hit the bulls eye of realistic sound with deafening gun shots, horrifying shrieks, and mushy-mashy bludgeoning sound effects. As well, the music and truly superb voicing of Bioshock over comes many of the best movies to date. The soundtrack is a wonderful composition of songs that define and push the game's stressful and insane mood, all the while fitting the era in which the game takes place. The voice acting, as well, is of just plain superb quality. Colorful wording that fits the vocabulary of people of the 50's/60's combined with lines that successfully echo each character's personality make for very entertaining and attention holding conversations.

When I started Bioshock, I didn't know what to expect. I knew it was in first person, but many people talked of a shooter/adventure/role playing game combo. It is quite true that Bioshock is a FPS game unlike any other. The firefights are of amazing realistic quality. It isn't an all out shoot out in Bioshock, oh no, it's much wilder than that. Splicers will jump left and right, dodging your shots, while you scurry for cover of your own. The kick back of your guns will throw your aim wildly around as you fire off each shot at the menacing splicers, who themselves desperately hurry to get their shots into you. The fights are wild and frenzied, with fear over coming both sides. But the wonderful action is just a small piece of the fun. All the fire arms you gather or loot are completely customizable; various add-ons include more damage, better aim, even completely custom bullets, and beyond. As well, one of the most important features is changing your genes to gain powers, called plasmids, is an amazingly fun part of the game. Powers range from freezing your enemies or shocking them to marking your enemies so security guns will shoot only them and making Big Daddies fight for you. But the developers took this already great feature even farther; in one part of the game you'll be going through a part of Rapture (where Bioshock is set) where ice has covered most of the area, by using your fire plasmid, you can melt away the ice and find hidden items and passage ways. Another fun trick is to shoot a puddle in which several enemies are standing to shock them all at once; or, another favorite of mine, you can catch a bomb or grenade thrown at you with telepathy and through it right back. You really have to think out of the box and get creative to fully utilize the potential of plasmids, which seems nearly endless. But, in the end, the truly most important part of Bioshock is deciding what to do with the Little Sisters. The Little Sisters are little girls who have been changed into mutants who gather Adam, a key component in the creation of plasmids. The catch: deciding what to do with them; you can either harvest them getting all the possible Adam out of them but kill them, or you can save them, releasing them from their mutant, hypnotized state but getting less Adam. Making the choice to harvest or save will affect the game immensely, so choose carefully.

All in all, Bioshock is an immense game that encourages exploration and creativity in a wild, dark, and very original setting. The ability to customize weaponry, freely explore, and making the decision to save or harvest the Little Sisters multiplies the replay value. With such high quality design, exciting game play, and so much play and replay value, Bioshock is one of the few perfect games out there.

Pros: Great visuals and sound, wonderful game play, tons to do and many reasons to play through multiple times.
Cons: None, that's right, nothing.

Review: Vedran

* Review for 360 version only, available on PC as well.

Review: Madden '08 (Wii*)

2007-08-22T17:12:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 7/10
Sound- 9/10
Gameplay- 7.5/10
Replay Value- 9/10
Overall- 7.5/10

I was in need of my yearly Madden fix, but this year all that happened was I became anxious for the Madden to loose its license agreement. In a hit or miss series of games, this year features lots of misses.

When I got home to start playing Madden '08 the first thing that I noticed was the much improved loading times. This year is a vast improvement over last years average load times, and much better than the PSP version that I had last year was. However my enthusiasm was short lived, because once I actually started to play the game, I realized I was in fact playing the Gamecube version. I can barely notice the difference between the current Gamecube version and the current Wii version, graphical speaking. I have only noticed minor things, like extra shiny helmets, and new player animations. To counter the negativity, there was something that I was very pleased at, and that was the controls. I have found them to be very responsive and easy. The first thing that I would recommend that you do, is go to "learn Madden," it teaches you what you need to do, and you can start playing rather quickly.

As far as actually playing the game goes - it isn't bad. Once you get used to using the Wiimote to throw a pass, it is all good. Especially once you learn to set a" primary receiver." Doing that is a fairly simple task, and can really help you out. Before you snap the ball - when you are surveying the field by holding down "B" - you hit the button of the receiver that you would like to throw the ball to. Now that you have done that, all you have to do is flick the Wiimote to throw the ball - you don't have to hold down a button. As far as running the ball, it is very fun - you use the Wiimote to stiff arm and the Nunchuck to juke. On top of that the power moves have improved, because you just have to shove the Wiimote forward, instead of last year where you had to shove both the Nunchuck and Wiimote forward. As for this years new feature (player weapons) it is all fine and dandy, but I honestly don't use it all that much. What the feature is supposed to do is help you identify superstars allowing super star players to be noticed. For example Randy Moss is a "spectacular catch" receiver, allowing him to make amazing one-handed grabs and Reggie Bush is an "elusive back," making him more agile then most players. The other way to play is superstar mode, and there is only one big change this year is the creation process. Gone are the days of randomly shifting through your parents "DNA," and it is instead replaced with a point system. You are assigned a certain amount of points which you can add to your players attributes.

The other big new feature on the Wii this year, is online capabilities, which flat out suck. It takes you way to long to find someone with a strong enough signal to play ( it has to be full, other wise you will not be able to get past three minutes without ramming your head through the wall.) Then once you find someone with a strong enough signal the game still has way to much lag. Not only that there are a lot of glitches with the scoring system. For example I was playing someone and I was winning, so they decided to be a little baby a quit, but hey what do I care I get the win and there DNF % goes up. Ha, I was wrong - we both got a win plus a DNF. Other times it has worked to perfection, making the system extremely hit and miss.

There are a few other problems that I have noticed, but the big one is freezing. It always seems to freeze whenever I go to team schedule in my franchise instead of weekly schedule. It is easy to avoid, I understand, but it is still something that I shouldn't have to deal with. The only other problem is that the Gamecube version is better. Yeah, thats right. The Gamecube version has a ton more options and ways to play. The Gamecube version contains certain options such as create-a-team, that are lacking in the Wii version. So, what am I trying to say? Buy the Gamecube version, seriously. Unless you need sucky online play, there is no reason for the Wii version. The only other feature, that the Wii version has is Party Mode, which is how your Miis are involved in this particular Wii game. Should I expect better from Madden, you ask? Well, probably not, but I do and this game has failed me in that regard.

Pros: Good controls, Load times, Got my yearly Madden fix.
Cons: Everything else.

Review: Dan

Available for many systems. Review for Wii version only.

Review: F.E.A.R. (360*)

2007-08-06T18:20:00.001-05:00

Graphics- 9/10
Sound- 9.5/10
Gameplay- 9.5/10
Replay Value- 9/10
Overall- 9.5/10

FEAR was the game to get on the PC awhile back, but now it's on the 360, and that age old question comes up again; did it survive the port?

I had high hopes for FEAR on the 360 for 2 reasons; 1. this generation of consoles has the power to port PC games successfully, and 2. when FEAR came out for the PC, I couldn't run it. Thankfully, the port was a success. The 360 makes fine work of running the game. The graphics, as a shining point of the PC version, was what I scrutinized first. The difference between the graphics on the 360 and those of the PC were non-existent, if anything. The textures were flatter than those in Gears of War, but this is no surprise, as FEAR on the PC is an older game. The resolution, colors, and lighting was top notch, though. The textures did little to hold back the visuals as a whole, as the overall picture was sharp and very easy on the eyes. The most important part of the picture was the lighting, though. As a horror game, FEAR uses the lighting heavily to influence the mood, and it does this quite successfully.

Working together with the lighting, the sound is surprisingly realistic. Every shot fired, every step taken, literally everything has a freakishly crisp, realistic sound. The ambient noises and the music blend seamlessly into the gameplay, effecting the mood and, ultimately, how you play. Gameplay, though, is the best part. It reminded me a lot of Half-Life, where adventure and story line were stuffed right into the action, meaning almost the entire game is from a first-person perspective. The game is filled with weapons and different types of grenades, as with most shooters, but unlike most shooters, there are health and reflex boosters scattered through the levels. Health boosters raise your health permanently, and reflex boosters do the same for your slow motion powers. This feature adds a new angle of gameplay, it's kind of like an RPG in this way, giving you the option to beef up your character through tons of fun, truly frightening exploration. As well, finding all the scattered boosters adds wonderfully to the replay value. The levels, themselves, are quite stunning. FEAR is in no way linear, as the levels have tons of diverging, twisting paths; and it's up to you to choose the ones you want to follow. But don't worry about getting lost; these paths, in the end, will lead you to your objective. Besides adventuring through all those horrifying levels, you'll also be treated to a lot of adrenaline filled firefights. The action is loud, fast, and very satisfying. The slow motion powers add to the fights with lots of action movie moments. Besides raising the fun level, the slow motion is surprisingly useful; it's not just another gimmick. Many times, these powers are the reason you survive the battles.

In the end, FEAR is a superb game. The large, free-form level design along with the multiplayer adds a nice touch of replay value. The game is just plain fun; the level design and health and reflex boosters, along with the wonderfully action packed shootouts make FEAR a refreshingly fun and exciting shooter with a great adventure game feel to it; and the complex story from a first person view really adds to the depth, tension and fear.

Pros: Great shoot outs; adventure feel adds to the depth of game play; large levels; superb lighting, sounds, and music; very good story; surprisingly scary.
Cons: A bit flat on the textures.

Review: Vedran

*Available on the 360, PS3, and PC. Review for 360 only.

Editorial: Sports Video Games

2007-08-02T21:49:00.000-05:00

You can not ignore the importance of sport games in the video game world. They are a huge deal, and are constantly getting better, which is one of the reasons that they have had such a huge impact on the world of video games. I am a huge fan of sports video games, especially when they are done right, which leads me to the question: Which sports have made the best transition into a video game?

To me the best type of sports game available is baseball. While it is true that baseball is my favorite sport, that is not why I say it's the best. It's the best because they have managed to capture all of the different aspects of the game. From hitting a home run, to getting caught in a run down, it's all there. Every year the game seems to get closer to true simulation, with the player models getting better, as well as the animations. I am not saying that any baseball video game that has been made has been perfect, but they seem to be the closest to perfect available. Now I understand that some people might argue that football is the best sports video game that is currently available. While it is the most popular, it does not simulate the actual sport as well as baseball. There are too many glitches, animations can be lacking, challenges are all luck, and it can be too easy. Now, this isn't to say I don't like football video games. I find them to be very fun. In fact, I am looking forward to the release of Madden '08.

Now on the the fun part - the worst. After thinking about this for awhile, and considering many different types, I remembered wrestling. To me this is rock bottom when it comes to sports video games. These game were never incredibly popular, nor good. The most popular ones were probably the WWE games on the N64, and they were never "sold out" popular. The best games graphically are obviously the most recent games, which I don't know the names of, and I won't bother to look them up. However to me the biggest problem with wrestling video games is the terrible simulation, because of the lack of moves. Think about, there are only so many button combos that you can do on any given controller before it gets tedious. On top of that, there are way more moves in real life then available in the games. I just don't see why anybody outside of hard-core wrestling fans would buy anything from this particular genre.

There are a few other loose ends to tie up. For example - soccer video games. I can't really tell much about them because I rarely ever play them, but from what I understand they manage to do a pretty good job of simulating a real game. Another one is golf - this is probably the most realistic sim out there, but unfortunately it is very unpopular. Last but not least is basketball. Basketball games are certainly getting better and more realistic as time goes on, but they have yet to achieve anything great. Speaking of on the rise - that is something that is true about most sports video games. Ever since the creation of true 3D video games, sports games are always improving, and are becoming more popular due to their realism. Sports video games are something you can't ignore, and something you have probably taken part in over your life. The future of sports video games is looking up, and I can't wait to see what can be done on the new systems - especially the Wii.

Editorial: Dan

Review: Diddy Kong Racing DS (DS)

2007-07-31T22:36:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 8/10
Sound- 9.5/10
Gameplay- 9/10
Replay Value- 8/10
Overall- 8.5/10

I was in need of a new DS game, so I went hunting. I remembered Diddy Kong Racing DS, so I purchased it. This is another game you can chalk up as a great N64 remake.

I guess I should start out by saying that I am very much in the minority when it comes to this games. It seems like everyone who touches this game hates it. It could be that I was way too excited to the Rare logo on a Nintendo game for the first time in way too long or it could be that I want to like this game, because I liked the original for the N64. Anyways, whatever the reason is, I like the game. People have complained about the graphics and more specifically, the textures. I have noticed this - but I only see this when I am looking for a problem, and that is not how I should review a game. In other words, when you aren't looking for any problems, odds are you won't see any. Enough about the graphics, lets get right down to the gameplay - and boy is there a lot of it. The racing aspect of this game has remained great, and nothing really has to be said, because almost nothing has changed (read what I said here.) The only change is to the start of the race, more specifically the way you boost at the beginning. If you are in a car, you spin a wheel on the touch screen, if you are in a plane you spin a propeller, and if you are in a hovercraft you blow into the microphone. To say the least, this is a very compelling idea, unfortunately, spinning the wheel is so hard, spinning the propeller is to easy, and blowing is way way to easy (oops...). However, this is a very minor detail. As long as we are talking about the cars, I might as well tell you one of the new features that I like about this game. That is the newly added unlockable features, which includes car upgrades. Are you as excited as I was? Well... probably not, but anyways, my excitement didn't last long because, it turns out upgrading is too easy, and makes the game too easy. If you keep losing a race, just upgrade your top speed, and you will win. "But, wait," you say, "I don't have enough coins to upgrade!" (you collect coins during races.) Well then, you just go back to the first races, the way too easy races, and you collect lots of coins. The other things that you can unlock include a design-a-course race, which I was disappointed in, mainly due to its lack of depth.

Anyways something that I loved in the original was the music, it was awesome, and thank god it wasn't changed for this game. Hot Top Volcano still has the same somewhat stereotypical music. Another thing I loved in the original was the elephant's extremely stereotypical Indian voice, but unfortunately, this did not return (it's not hard to figure out why.) Something else that I have yet to mention is the Wi-Fi, and for the most part it works fine, it's nothing special. It does add more to the game though. In the end, I still spend a lot of time with this game, and I don't care what everyone else says. If you read my original review, you can understand why I like the remake. Is my review possibly biased? Well get used to this, it's a good game.

Pros: Upgrades, Music the same, Much like the original.
Cons: Loss of stereotypical Indian voice, Design a course, Upgrades.

Review: Dan

Editorial: Idiocy in the World of Today's Courtroom

2007-07-31T22:29:00.000-05:00

Recently, a new lawsuit was filed against Sony for the use of a Cell that can do synchronized parallel processing with shared memory. Of course, this is referring to the technology used within the Playstation 3. But why is this lawsuit different? One word: idiocy.

Here are the facts: The company suing is International Parallel Processing, who got the rights for the patent way back in 1991; which begs the question; why did they wait so long to tell Sony the Cell was patented. The technology and the use of it in the Playstation 3 was made public very loudly during the development of the system. Secondly, International Parallel Processing hasn't actually said how this hurts them as it seems they haven't done anything with said technology in the last 16 years. Lastly, not only has International Parallel Processing asked for Sony to pay the damages which haven't at all been specified, they've also asked that all Sony products using the technology be destroyed; that means all Playstation 3 systems.

Although I wouldn't believe that the destruction of millions of Playstation 3 systems will be forced on Sony, we have to realise that this claim is ridiculous. The game industry is huge, rich, and advanced; yet it is still weak to attention loving politicians and greedy companies. International Parallel Processing has the right to defend it's patent, but asking for such a large scale destruction of a major console is an obvious move of hostility towards the easily targeted game industry.

Editorial: Vedran

Review: Super Stardust HD (PS3)

2007-07-31T20:52:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9/10
Sound- 8/10
Gameplay- 9/10
Replay Value- 7/10
Overall- 8/10

Super Stardust HD is not the first game in the dual-joystick genre, but it's probably the best on the PS3. It features crisp visuals, a nice soundtrack, and a fun co-op feature. For only $8, this game is one of the best available from the Playstation Store.

In Super Stardust HD, you take control of a spaceship that orbits a planet on a grid. Your goal is to protect the world from the asteroids that are hurdling towards it. Once they reach the planet, they circle it on the grid, leaving you to destroy them before they destroy you. Because the planet is, of course, a sphere, the playing field is a sphere. The concept is pretty simple, and the game is easy to get into and start playing. However, there are three different types of weapons that you have, each for a specific type of asteroid. For example, the rock crusher does more damage to rocks than the gold melter does, but not as much damage to gold. This gameplay element makes the game more fun, but also more challenging. Also, at the center of the asteroids are power-ups that give you an extra life, make your weapons stronger, or give you a shield. You will often find yourself frantically switching weapons, trying to avoid getting hit, and trying to collect power-ups at the same time. There are several planets to defend, each with five stages of varying difficulty, that end with a boss fight. There is also an online leaderboard, so you can see how you compare with others.

The multiplayer comes in the form of co-op, but its offline only. Both players play on the same screen and have independent controls. However, if one player moves too far away from the other, the other player gets dragged along with. But it is to the players' advantage to stick close together, as it boosts the weapons power. The planets aren't very detailed, but the asteroids and the explosions are very nicely rendered. The asteroids blow up into oddly-shaped pieces, and the weapons create some flashy explosions. The soundtrack and sound effects of the game are nothing special, but the sci-fi theme fits the game incredibly well. If you have played plenty of games like this one before, then Super Stardust HD might be a pass, even though it's a solid game. If you are new to the genre, then this game is an excellent place to start.

Pros: Nice presentation, good value for price, co-op.
Cons: Limited replay value, not the first in genre.

Review: Eric

Review: Final Fantasy III (DS)

2007-07-12T14:00:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 8.5/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 9/10
Replay Value- 8.5/10
Overall- 9/10

I've long been a fan of the Final Fantasy series, but since I missed out on some of the oldies, I've been picking up the newer remakes. And I must tell you, Final Fantasy III on the DS is the best of the remakes and already one of my favorite Final Fantasy games.

Recently, with the rise in new Final Fantasy releases, the market has seen a rise, as well, in remakes of the older, classic Final Fantasies. Final Fantasy III on the DS is one of the newer remakes and easily the most updated, as the graphics have been changed from 2D to 3D. Although it is obvious that the graphics are certainly not the best on a portable system, they give the game a certain charm that makes the visuals very appealing. One of the main things that adds to this is the wonderful use of color in the designs and environments. The picture is very crisp, appealing, and fun to watch due to the use of color and detail. With all these properties working together, the visuals prove to be very attractive. Working with the visuals, the sound, namely the music, really raises the game to another level of entertainment. The soundtrack, specifically the theme song, is breath taking at numerous moments. The music is perfectly composed, with the ability to affect your emotions drastically.

The game play is truly what gives the game it's classic feeling. Just like Final Fantasy games of old, the game takes place on a large over world, covered by green fields, dense forests, and rugged mountains; as well, the other part of the adventure is when you enter the numerous, detailed dungeons, towns, and castles for quests that range from treasure hunting to saving the world. There is plenty of room in the game which supports the free form questing style of the game. As you travel through the more detailed places of the world, such as caves and dungeons, the feeling is truly adventurous with the threat of monsters and the reward of treasure being real. As well, there is a nice feature to the game; as it's name, zoom, implies, you zoom in the camera to find needed items and buttons for secret passage ways. The game really uses the feature in the game play and it is often needed for advancement. This zoom feature adds a feeling of light puzzle solving to the adventure. The battles themselves are true to the classic, turn based style of older Final Fantasy games. Fighting is simple, quick, and often fun and satisfying, with some key battles being more epic in scale, giving the game a nice range of action.

These are all the elements that make the game what it is; fun, adventurous, and pretty free, but the main feature is the job system. The job system allows you to choose what type of adventurers your characters are at almost any moment. The choices range from warrior to red mage and thief to monk. Even more options become available as you advance through the game, such as dragoon and ninja. The game play really changes depending on the classes chosen, making it easy to make the game fun for any ones' taste. In the end, the choice of classes throughout the game, along with it's semi-free form nature really gives the game a nice amount of replay value. Over all, Final Fantasy III is a wonderful addition to the DS, and a great remake. The visuals are appealing, the game play is very fun and adventurous, and the music is truly stunning. As well, even with out replaying the game, you can have tons of time of fun and adventure with this one.

Pros: Very appealing design, great adventure, wonderful music. Job system is fun
Cons: Graphics aren't quite as good as they could be.

Review: Vedran

Review: Splinter Cell: Double Agent (360*)

2007-07-07T23:12:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9/10
Sound- 8.5/10
Gameplay- 8.5/10
Replay Value- 8.5/10
Overall- 8.5/10

The Splinter Cell series is still going strong. Since the original, many improvements have been made; such as lighting, graphics, and a lot more interactivity with the world in the game. But can Double Agent match up, or more importantly, improve on Chaos Theory, the 3rd part in the series which seemed to perfect Splinter Cell?

Many fans of this franchise have probably heard the talk of the new features of Double Agent; an all new out look on objectives in which the protagonist, Sam Fisher, faces decisions that could change the game dramatically. As the story begins, Sam is being placed into a different position than in previous game. As a double agent, Sam needs to gain the trust of the terrorist group he has infiltrated to ultimately stop them from within. Yet there are quite a few twists. Every level has several objectives for both the NSA(good guys) and the terrorist group, the completion of the objectives gains the trust of the side that gave you the order and everything is just peachy, right? Not really, many times you will find yourself choosing between two conflicting objectives, meaning that one side will trust you a little more, and the other will trust you a little less at the end of the level. As the game goes on, the decisions you make will build on top of one another to reach the ending; on which your choices will have a heavy effect. Although this has been used in some games before, this is pretty new to the Splinter Cell series. But the thing that matters is that this new aspect of game play really does make the game more interesting, or, in other words, more suspenseful, and suspense is the biggest part of having fun in a stealth game.

Now, on to the core game play. Veterans of previous Splinter Cell games will be at home in this part, as many of the previous moves are here, and that's great news as those game play features are fun to use, the problem is that not too many new things to do are found here. Besides the new double agent set up, this Splinter Cell feels much like it's predecessors. Expect to be on the edge of your seat most of the time, planning your moves carefully, and using gadgets and the environment to complete your objectives. That being said, the game play is very fun and that is great for new comers and Splinter Cell lovers, just don't expect anything dramatically different.

One very noticeable difference in Splinter Cell: Double Agent are the graphics. Everything from the hairs on Sam's rugged beard to the environmental details looks great. The visuals are very detailed, crisp, clean, and quite realistic. Although these aren't the juiciest graphics, it's still a visual feast, even on next gen standards. Sadly, though, there are minor graphical issues here and there, such as cloth and body interaction, but nothing serious. To go along with the visuals, the game's sound really does a great job. The music is very fitting and really sets the mood. And the sound effects are pretty realistic, although, the gunfire did seem a tad soft.

In the end, Splinter Cell: Double Agent does a good job of moving the series forward with the same, suspenseful game play, an intuitive double agent system that really makes a difference to the choices you make, crisp visuals, and clean sound. As well, being able to make choices that can change the game really ups the replay value. Splinter Cell: Double Agent is great for fans of the series and newcomers as well.

Pros:Suspenseful, fun game play. Double Agent feature adds to this. Very good graphics. decisions affect the game.
Cons: Game play not very different than previous Splinter Cell games.

Review: Vedran

* Also on Playstation 2, Gamecube, Playstation 3, Wii, Xbox, and PC. Review for 360 version only.

Review: Mario Kart DS (DS)

2007-07-01T19:34:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9.5/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 10/10
Overall- 9.5/10

Best Mario Kart game ever. Period. This game has it all; great courses, great gameplay, online gameplay, great characters and karts, and the list just keeps going.

This is what it is all about, I don't know if I will ever get so much entertainment from a DS game. Not only was the single player nicely done, the multiplayer was too. To start the single player, is set up just like all the other Mario Kart game. You have to choose between 50cc, 100cc, and 150cc - with 50cc being the easiest and 150cc being the most difficult. As you beat different cups you unlock different rewards such as new karts, courses and characters. That leads me into another great feature of this game, and that is the cup selection. In this game it is set up so there are eight total cups to chose from. There is the normal four and then the "retro four" which is basically the previous games greatest hits, course wise. They did manage to get it pretty close to perfect with the course selection (damn Baby Park). Not only are the four retro cups nicely done, but the new ones are nicely done also. If you remember this is the problem that I had with Double Dash, and this little problem was fixed very nicely. I still like to go back to the courses and play the computers every once and awhile, which is something that is very hard to achieve in a racing game, but if I get bored of the computers I can always play some noobs online. This is where my only compliant for the game is - the online system is a little bare. Overall however it isn't bad for Nintendo's first online system. It also can be a little annoying when you play a hacker online, but that is not the games fault.

Another good feature about this game is the character and Kart selection choices. Once is all said and done you get to choose from up to twelve characters: Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Yoshi, Toad, Donkey Kong, Wario, Bowser, Princess Daisy, Waluigi, Dry Bones, and R.O.B. As far as karts go you ultimately get to chose from 36. Now, I don't know if you're aware but that is a lot of karts that you can choose from. On top of that there are many other good things about the game. There is mission mode, which can be anything from drive through some tires, to fighting Boo for coins. Mission mode can be fun and all, but there is no reward for it, other than the satisfaction of perfect completion. You can also design your own emblems to be used in multiplayer races and battles. Which reminds me, the battles in this game tend to be a forgotten aspect, and they should not be. I guess what I am trying to say is that well this is the best "kart" racing game ever made, console or portable system because it combines the best aspects from all the previous games. This game is one of those must-own games that you hear so much about.

Pros: Tracks, Characters, Karts, Multiplayer, Single player, Online.
Cons: Online bare, Snakers online.

Review: Dan

Review: MLB 07: The Show (PS3)

2007-06-17T22:32:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 7/10
Sound- 8/10
Gameplay- 9.5/10
Replay Value- 9.5/10
Overall- 8.5/10

The Show is back! MLB 07: The Show for the PS3 is pretty much the PS2 version of the same game. This really isn't a bad thing, except in the graphics department. The Show is fun on all systems, but the PS3 version is probably the best. If you are a baseball fan, I highly recommend this game.

The next edition of the Show is here with MLB 07: The Show, finally out for the PS3. It was released two and a half months after the PS2 and PSP versions, which were released before the start of the season. The '07 version includes several new features, most notably the Road to the Show career and ability to create online leagues with up to 30 players. Like I said before, the game is almost a direct port of the PS2 version with better graphics and some additional features. However, the graphics certainly are hurt by this. The graphics aren't bad, but the game does not have that next-gen shine and polish that other games have, and doesn't look nearly as good as MLB 2K7. Also, there are several animation glitches that occur during gameplay. Most of these have to do with collision detection, such as going right through a player during a hard slide (this only happens some of the time). The announcing on the game is done well, with the help of Rex Hudler, Matt Vasgersian, and Dave Campbell. However, a consistent problem is that the sayings tend to overlap and do not necessarily correspond to the current play. Also, the soundtrack is not all that great. It fits in well, but only three or four of the 18 songs are any good (personal opinion).

However, baseball games aren't about the graphics or the soundtrack, well, maybe a little bit, but it is mostly about gameplay. And that is the area at which MLB 07: The Show excels. The controls work well and are easy to learn, besides the SIXAXIS controls, which feel tacked on. The new pitching system works incredibly well, and adds a fair amount of depth to the game. Also, the developers added in a system that is supposed to imitate the tendencies of an umpire, creating changing strike zones. This feature adds realism, and can be helpful, but can get annoying if it isn't working in your favor. The career mode from the first edition is back and is still amazing. But in addition to that, the new Road to the Show mode allows you to skip every play you are not involved in, speeding up the process. The only complaint I have with this mode is that the buttons that represent the bases control different bases when you play different positions, but, if you understand what I'm saying, this is a minor complaint. The franchise mode is also back, and is very deep and fun. All of these modes add up to plenty of hours that can be spent playing this game. And that is just the offline play. The online system is well done, allowing you to match up with people who have the same skill level as you. Also, as I mentioned before, you can create online leagues with your friends for up to 30 people. All in all, this game is an excellent baseball simulator, and if you are looking for a baseball game on the PS3, this is it.

Pros: New features work well, Road to the Show, deep Franchise mode, online adds plenty to do.
Cons: Graphics look dated, soundtrack, animations.

Review: Eric

*Also available for PS2 and PSP. Review for PS3 only.

Review: Mario Kart: Double Dash!! (Gamecube)

2007-06-17T10:14:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9/10
Sound- 8.5/10
Gameplay- 8.5/10
Replay Value- 8/10
Overall- 8.5/10

The only Mario Kart game on the Gamecube is the worst in the series for a non-porable system, mainly due to bad couse design. But don't misinterpret that to mean it's a bad game, because it's still a good game.

I was very excited about this game when it came out, because it was a Mario Kart game and you should always be excited about any Mario Kart game. I was also excited about the newly added multiplayer mode, which as you should know involves two players on the same kart. This seemed like it would be really fun, and at points it is fun. However, some of the times it is the last thing that you want to do, especially if the person that you are stuck with sucks. The things that make it fun, are really fun. There is the item strategy, meaning that the person who isn't driving gets the items, and seeing as one of the newly added features of this game is each player has there own "special item," it can really effect the outcome of the race. The other feature that makes the new multiplayer really fun is the side swipes. In other words the person who isn't driving can hit L or R and they will reach over and punch in that direction - possibly stealing an item from a kart next to them.

On to the main problem that I hinted at earlier, which is the course design. It is by far the worst in any Mario Kart game to date. Sure there are great courses like DK Mountain, Wario Colosseum, and Waluigi Stadium. However, these good courses get outweighed by terrible courses like Dino Dino Jungle, Dry Dry Desert, Bowser's Castle, and Daisy Crusier - to name a few. Not only that the courses that are in the middle, a.k.a the average ones, usually fall one lower end of the scale. For example, Baby Park is a small circle courses that involves almost no skill and is solely based on your luck with items. Not only is the course design lacking, single player is to. This is because the game was obviously designed with only the multiplayer aspect in mind. The problem is that in single player you have to still choose two players, and when you are racing this can become very distracting - trying to have the right player in position when need that crucial item. That is not as bad though as multiplayer battle however. The course design in this part of the game is the worst I have ever seen anywhere, and isn't even worth mentioning.

I realize that my views do differ with a majority of the owners of this game, and I'll be honest, the other games in this series have spoiled me a great deal. I was just hoping for a lot more in this game. I guess it was somewhat predictable - the changes they made that is - the graphics are enhanced, new players and courses etc. Bottom line, this game is a great multiplayer game if you aren't battling your friends, and this is a great game to add to your collection if you are one of the owners of the Cube.

Pros: Multiplayer racing is fun, Enhanced graphics, Some good courses.
Cons: Lots of bad courses, Multiplayer battle, Single player, Expect more.

Review: Dan

Review: Demon Stone (Xbox*)

2007-06-12T22:19:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 8.5/10
Sound- 9/10
Gameplay- 8.5/10
Replay Value- 9/10
Overall- 8.5/10

Based on the Dungeons and Dragons setting Forgotten Realms, Demon Stone is a heavy hack n' slash RPG. With 3 main characters, the game's story has a nice bit of depth as well. Also, the game's music is one the biggest highlights.

As you begin Demon Stone, you quickly realize how much this game focuses on the hack n' slash gameplay. Although their are bits and pieces of times in the game where the elements of play are changed, you'll find yourself mowing through legions of enemies most of the time. As you fight, you'll come against a lot of classic fantasy monsters such as orcs, trolls, and a red dragon (which is a pretty sweet part of the game in my opinion). As well, their will be some not so well known creatures to fight. But the biggest feature of the game is being able to switch between 3 different characters at any time. The 3 members of your party are a human fighter, a human wizard, and a drow (dark elf) rogue. All three are together after the first level. Each of the characters have their own unique skills. The fighter can take tons of hits and deal them also, the wizard excels at long range magic fighting, and the rogue can sneak behind enemies for one hit kills. For the bulk of the game, you'll probably be using the character that most appeals to you. Although, there are plenty of moments when a certain character's skills are specifically needed. So the game offers plenty of variety in the long run, but there is still a heavy focus on just fighting. On the RPG side, you'll get what you expect- experience points to get stronger and gold for better equipment. The way this portion of the game is set up is kind of simplistic. Along the way you collect gold, and at the end of each level the gold, along with experience points, is totaled up. At this point, you can spend your experience points on better moves and improved attributes and your gold can go towards new equipment. The whole process is simplified by letting choose to get all the best upgrades possible with the amount of gold and experience points you have for all the characters at once. Over all, these game mechanics make the game a fun, although a bit simple, action RPG. The action is actually really good and keeps you on the edge of your seat. But a warning, the game can get a bit annoyingly hard. The big problem, though, is the camera, of which you have no control over. Every once in awhile the angles used for the camera become a problem, although, the game still stays fun.

Besides the camera, the rest of the visuals are pretty good. The graphics themselves are good and offer nice detail. The colors, as well, are done nicely. There is a tone used in the colors that really gives the game a different, original, and very fitting feeling (think stylish dark, not spooky dark). But, in the end, the designs are my personal favorite. The character's faces have feeling and are very fitting to each of the characters' roles. As well, the designs of the equipment are some of my favorite in any RPG and I hope to see more of such designs in other Dungeons and Dragons based games. The animation, too, is very well done. The character's moves are very appealing and make you think "wow, I wish could do that" plenty of times. But the games visuals are bested by the sound. More specifically, the music. The fantasy setting soundtrack is filled with movie quality music that really gets you into the action and keeps you on the edge of your seat.

All in all, Demon Stone offers plenty of fun, simple, and action packed fantasy gameplay. The visuals and animations are well done and the music really shines. As well, the replay value is very good as you can play through the game using any of the 3 main characters.

Pros: Action packed, cool designs, lots of fantasy creatures/ settings, and great music.
Cons: Kind of simple, fighting can get repetitive, bad camera.

* Also on Playstation 2, review only for Xbox version.

Review: Vedran

Editorial: Upcoming Games to Look Forward To

2007-06-03T19:04:00.000-05:00

-Wii-

Metroid Prime 3: Corruption - When this game gets released this year it will most likely have the best graphics on the Wii. The Metroid Prime Series had some of the best graphics on the Gamecube and when this game was shown at E3 2006, it looked similar to Metroid Prime 2: Echoes in terms of graphics but has sense been overhauled. People from GamePro where allowed to play an early version of the game and said "The graphics have had a huge overhaul since E3 -- vastly better than games like Halo 2." Not only will the graphics be good, the game play should fully use the Wiimote. While talking about Wiimote use in the game the President of Nintendo of America said "When we release it, it will be perfect." This is something that has yet to be done in a Wii game, so this makes me very excited.

Super Smash Bros. Brawl- This is the most wanted game by Wii owners, and I can see why. To original game was very well done and a huge success. This game appears to expand a lot, one way is with characters. The list of confirmed characters includes Fox, Kirby, Link, Mario, Meta Knight, Pikachu, Pit, Samus, Snake, and Wario. Obviously the inclusion of third party characters is really cool especially if the do end up putting Sonic in the game. My only concern would be that they try and make it too kiddish because it has already been confirmed that Wario will have a fart move. Gameplay appears to be the same as the other two games in the series, even down to the controller because you have to use the classic controller or a Gamecube controller. While I was hoping to be able to use the Wiimote, I understand this. This is a game you will be hearing about a lot so get ready.

Wii The Sims - When I first heard about this game I was very excited because I loved the original Sims on the PC. Then I saw some screen shots for the game and all my hopes came crashing down. The game appears to be designed with a 3-year old in mind. However there does appear to be all the elements from classic Sim games in this game but the game will focus on you fixing up a house in your grandparents town. I would have purchased this game originally, but now this game seems underwhelming, especially in terms of the graphics. Not only that but it seems like your choices for making people and house will be very low. To me this game looks like a major disappointment.

Super Mario Galaxy - Oh boy, this is the game of the year, if not for all systems at least for the Wii. As you can see my expectations are a little high, but any game that Shigeru Miyamoto is involved in this much should be good. Super Mario 64 was such a big a hit because it was groundbreaking, as this game should be. Most of the game takes place in outer space along a vast chain of miniature planets, with every planet having it's own unique features. The Wiimote should add a bunch of great moves that will make this a game to remember.

Wii Music - This is the game that everybody is forgetting about, but shouldn't. If this game is anything like Wii Sports it should be pretty fun. When this game was shown at E3 it was meet with rave reviews despite there only being two songs to choose from. There have been two types of gameplay that are confirmed: Drums and Orchestra. Drums uses the Nunchuck and the Wiimote as drumsticks and Orchestra uses the Wiimote to conduct an orchestra. After you finish a number score is shown and you are given a rating of Passionate, Graceful, and Methodical. So far only Drums had multiplayer, and if other modes turn out to multiplayer this could be a great muliplayer game. Also like Wii Sports and Wii Play the Miis will be involved in gameplay. This is a title that is flying under the radar and deserves to have more attention focused on it.

Pokémon Battle Revolution - This game is going to a big hit, I'm not kidding. It is the first game for the Wii to allow online multiplayer as well as the first game to feature the Wii DS connectivity, allowing you to transfer your Pokemon from Diamond or Pearl onto the Wii. This is is most likely going to be the reason it will sell well because of the success of Diamond and Pearl. The gameplay appears to very similar to that of Pokemon Stadium, but with enhanced graphics, this time it actually shows the Pokemon being attacked rather than just showing the attack and cutting scenes. This game could actually be pretty good, especially with simultaneous battle, which is 2 vs. 2.

Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games - Ah, the long awaited get-together of two of the most famous characters in video game history, but is this going to be a game to remember? I do not think so. I am really only writing about this game because Mario and Sonic are finally in the same game together. The game does have a little potential, but I expect it to be just average, in fact it is probably the only game that I am writing about that I will not purchase. Unfortunately, there is little to say about the game because not much is know about gameplay other than it will use the Wiimote to it's full potential...which is really not anything to go by because every game that has come out on the has apparently used the Wiimote to it's full potential. Anyways, here's to a long relationship between Mario and Sonic that will hopefully make its way onto Brawl.

-Handheld-

The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass - This game will have the best graphics on the DS. However with graphics in the same style as Wind Waker, this game might be as controversial as it. However if gameplay is good it won't matter. This game will also have the sailing aspect that was present in Wind Waker, but this time you will use a steam boat, so you won't have to mess around with the wind. The other thing that should be really cool is that you will be able to make notes on the map, which will be on the top screen (you will flip the screens to write.) Not only that but there will be a WiFi battle mode, which could be really cool, because that is what Zelda games have lacked up to this point. This game is set for and October release and if you want a copy right away, you had better reserve it because this game will be very popular.

-PS3-

Lair - Lair has been followed by a lot of hype since it was first seen last year. In Lair, you are a dragon rider who controls his dragon with the SIXAXIS control of the PS3 controller. People have been saying that the controls are working very well, and add a nice element to the game. This game is supposed to be incredible, and the first title that makes the PS3 worth buying for some. Lair will be coming out in late July. It has had high expectations since day 1, and lets hope it delivers.

Ratchet and Clank Future: Tools of Destruction - If you have read any of my reviews of the previous games in the Ratchet and Clank series, you should be able to tell I am a huge fan of the series. So I am very excited about the next chapter in the series. Ratchet and Clank Future is going back to the format of the first three games, as opposed to Ratchet: Deadlocked, which focused on arena-style combat. This game looks stunning from what has been shown so far, and it looks to be a fantastic game come launch.

Warhawk - Warhawk is a reincarnation of a game with the same title, that was originally on the PS1. The game was supposed to have a single player function in addition to the multiplayer, which was the main part of the game. However, the developers thought the single player's quality was lacking, so they canceled it to focus solely on multiplayer. If the quality was low, then I am glad they made this move, and I think other companies should have the guts to do this also. The multiplayer looks to be tons of fun, with the standard deathmatch and capture the flag. But the new feature is called zone. In it, teams try to expand their areas by capturing bases. This allows the team to gain new weapons and have access to turrets and such, alowing the team to gain in power. Warhawk should be a fantastic game when it comes out this summer.

Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots - MGS4 has been hyped every since it was first shown. The PS3 exclusive has had people excited ever since MGS3 was released. However, the hype is so big that it may not reach that level. From what has been shown so far, though, it most likely will meet those expectations, and even has a chance to exceed them. Expect this stealth-shooter to be released late this year/early next year.

Heavenly Sword - Heavenly Sword was first shown at E3 2006. Not much has been seen since, until Sony's recent game conference. However, the game looked amazing. It has been nicknamed "Goddess of War" by many people due to its likeness to "God of War," which isn't a bad thing, because of the high pedigree of the God of War series. Critics has been astounded at the game so far, and it is looking to become an incredible game.

-Xbox 360-

Halo 3 - The last Halo game is coming. The end to the storyline. The best and some new weapons are here. Stunning visuals. Crazy multiplayer. Click on screenshot... 'Nuff said.

Too Human- Stunning and over the top action is what this game is all about. The visuals are very pleasing, as well. Along with intuitive, easy to use controls make this game some thing to look forward to.

Bio Shock- In a twisted, dark setting, you fight to survive and explore a seemingly dead underwater city. Surrounded by freaky creatures and with lots of adventure and action as the filling, this game should be one wild ride.

Mass Effect- Bioware continues to please with its soon to be released Mass Effect. The setting is in a far off future where humans are trying to fit into the alien filled universe with a mysterious threat coming. As you take control of the main character, (whom you make) you command a group of agents, trying to solve the threat and exploring the huge setting available to you. With plenty of worlds to explore, beautiful graphics, and a huge RPG element blended with action/shooter gameplay, this game seems to be a big hit.

-PC-

Starcraft 2- After so many years of waiting, it's here. The game that was such a huge hit is back. With a new storyline, new units, and wonderful, detailed graphics, this one is sure to please.

-Multi-Platform-

John Woo Presents Stranglehold - Stranglehold is a third person shooter from Midway, bringing back Chow Yun Fat, reprising his role of Inspector Tequila. This game is supposed to be a sequel to the movie "Hard Boiled," which came out in 1992. In fact, the PS3 collector's version will contain a version of "Hard Boiled" on Blu-Ray. Stranglehold has looked good from the start, and still does, and should be a fun shooter when it is released in summer.

Guitar Hero 3 - The sale of RedOctane to Activision was great for Wii owners, because now Guitar Hero 3 is on every platform. Specifically it's on: PS2, PS3, 360, Wii, and DS (Wha..?). Some great songs have already been confirmed such as School's Out by Alice Cooper, Paint It Black by the Stones and Rock and Roll All Nite by Kiss. Along with those songs many others have been confirmed or rumored and it appears there will once again be a great selection of music. All versions will also have online and muliplayer, along with changable face plates for your guitar controller, so everything seems to be falling into place to make this another great game in the guitar hero series. Lets just hope that there are no issues with any of the controllers.

Rock Band - Think Guitar Hero, but with a guitar, drums, and a microphone. That is the basic premise of Rock Band from Harmonix. Since it is made by Harmonix and not RedOctane, the guitars might not be compatible, but that looks to be the only downside so far. Hopefully the game will have as good a soundtrack as Guitar Hero when it is launched for the PS3 and Xbox 360 late this year.

Devil May Cry 4 - For those who don’t know, the Devil May Cry games are third person shooters from Capcom that are known for being rather difficult. According to the game’s producer, however, DMC4 will have not as steep a learning curve as DMC3. Another change is that the game will feature Nero as the main playable character, as opposed to Dante. However, it is reported that Dante will be a playable character, but will have a more minor role. Once a PS3-exclusive, DMC4 will be released on the PS3, Xbox 360, and PC in September.

The Darkness - The Darkness may not be as highly anticipated as Assassin’s Creed or Metal Gear Solid 4, but it still looks like a very good game. In it, you play as Jackie Estacado, a mafia hitman, who gains the powers of the darkness on his 21st birthday. The darkness is a supernatural ability Jackie to take down enemies or move objects he normally would not be able to. Also, the darkness’ power is stronger when the player is in darkness. This unique shooter will be available in late June.

Assassin's Creed - Assassin's Creed looked like it would be the PS3's killer app. Then it was announced that it would not be an exclusive. Despite this, Assassin's Creed looks to be one of the best games of the year. The character models look amazing, and so do the environments. The gameplay also looks to be innovative and the AI is supposed to be excellent. I will most likely get this game at launch, unless some news comes out that there is a major flaw in the game. This won't happen though, so pick this game up when it is released in fall.

Mercenaries 2: World in Flames - Mercenaries 2 is going to be like the first game in the series, only the destruction element will be more emphasized. In case you didn't know, this is a good thing. The videos shown have looked spectacular. Also, it looks like the excellent physics engine is back and better than ever. This time around, the game will be set in Venezuela and the environment will be bigger than the two areas from the previous game combined. Also, the game will feature co-op that will allow a friend to join into your single player game online, allowing for a ton of possibilities. Mercenaries 2 looks to improve on the first, creating a game that is all the first game could have been, and maybe even better.

Editorial: Dan, Eric, Vedran

Review: Starfox Adventures (Gamecube)

2007-05-31T20:59:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 10/10
Sound- 9/10
Gameplay- 9.5/10
Replay Value- 6/10
Overall- 9/10

Rare's last game on a Nintendo console shows why the sale of Rare to Microsoft was one of the worst things that could happen to Nintendo. I had forgoten about this game until recently when rediscovered this hidden gem on the old Cube.

This game was popular and well received when it came out, but unfortunately this game seems to have lost its popularity as of late. The game starts out with you playing as Krystal, who is trying to reach Dinosaur Planet when she receives a distress signal, which was sent because General Scales was attacking the planet. Eventually one thing leads to another and the famous Fox McCloud gets evolved. Once you start to play as Fox the game really picks up and gets good. As soon as you start you are given you main weapon that you use throughout the game - you staff...well Krystal's Ex-Staff, which you can upgrade and really pimp out. When you have your first fight you will quickly discover how totally awesome the staff truly is. The combat system in the game is simple enough - you really just have to hit A - but because the moves that are pulled off when you do this look so cool, you don't care how easy it is. The other thing that you should notice during your first fight is the in-game graphics. They are still some of the best graphics on the Cube, even though this game was released in 2002 which is a year after the Gamecube's release. Despite the fact that the graphics looked well, it didn't slow down gameplay when there was multiple enemies. I mean I can not think of on instance of lag. Soon after your first fight you will encounter your new sidekick, Prince Tricky - the dinosaur. He is quite useful, annoying, funny, and adds a unique element to the game.

While you are playing the game more and more tasks you have to accomplish keep piling on, making this game a great time-consumer and even though there is a lot of stuff to do it really doesn't get that confusing. If for some reason it does though, you can always ask Slippy for help and he is sure to tell exactly what to do. You just hit start and Slippy will greet you with a hello and a nice message explaining what you should do. That brings me to another part of the game the voice-acting - it is top notch. A majority of the dialog is spoken, and most of it is very nicely done. There are a few spots were it is a bit over the top and the Dinosaur language used at the beginning of the game can be a bit annoying, but overall it is a fantastic job all around.

While this game is mostly on foot, which is straying away from the original Starfox formula, there are some instances were you need to fly from planet to planet to accomplish you goals and of course the flying is done the original Starfox way. The controls are simple and easy enough, but so is the flying, I mean it's too easy to go from planet to planet, but this is a minor part of the game so it doesn't really matter. Back to what I said earlier - this game is mostly on foot, if you haven't figured that out. Now at first I was a bit hesitant when I heard that, but it works perfectly fine. Will fans of the original Starfox game be disappointed? I wasn't, but if you really liked the flying aspect of the originals, you may be disappointed. However in the end, this is a game that deserves to be revisited by everybody, because it is really a good title, with superior graphics and Voice-acting. This is all not mentioning that Fox has quite the attitude problem, and can be quite comical at times.

Pros: Graphcis, Voice acting, Staff fights, No Lag, Tricky
Cons: Over the top voice acting, Fighting is easy, Tricky.

Review: Dan

Review: Pokémon Diamond* (DS)

2007-05-22T18:31:00.000-05:00

Graphics - 9/10
Sound- 9.5/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 9.5/10
Overall- 9/10

This game has really taken off and I'm not surprised. This game plays the same as the original Pokémons and has many great updates. You should definitely consider revisiting the Pokémon games if you have given up on them.

At first I was unsure if I was going to buy the game because I have not been following Pokémon like I used to and do not know many of the new Pokémon. I soon decided to get the game, and boy was it a smart move. I quickly found myself engulfed in the game and I couldn't stop. I played for 10 hours the first two days I had it. I don't know if it was the lack of a good Pokémon game in my life for several years, or the fact that there is just so much to do but I was hooked and still am. The first thing that caught my attention while I was playing was the graphics, there has been a massive update to them that is visible right away. The game looks a lot better than any of the previous games, and the the fact that the DS has a backlight helps (I know the SP did too.) The only problem with the graphics is when you are moving really fast. You can actually see the parts of the buildings jump around a little as the game tries to load them. While this is most likely because of the DS's insanely low refresh rate it will bother at first, but you do get used to it. The other thing that is noticeable is the sound, but not for the same reason as the graphics. The sound effects have stayed almost the same, which I actually like because it reminds me of the original sounds you heard on the Gameboy. The music on the other hand has been updated a little and sounds a bit more sharper and changes more frequently meaning there is more music, and all of it is classic Pokémon sounding music.

Enough of the technical stuff, lets get down to gameplay. It's it what makes the game so good. As I have said it is in the style of the classic Pokémon games, which I guess I should explain for the three people in the world that don't know how it is done. You are on an adventure to fill up your Pokédex and along the way you have to beat the Elite Four, which are the four most powerful trainers in the game. Along the way you have to capture Pokémon and train them by fighting and defeating other wild Pokémon and fellow trainers. The fighting method is turn-based, with the Pokémon that has the highest speed stat striking first. You choose a move that will do damage to the opposing Pokémon based on you level, opponents level, type of Pokémon, And you attack stat along with there defense stat. However it doesn't stop there, you can have certain attacks that will raise your stats or lower your opponents stats in certain ares. This can make certain battles a fight to the end or you may be seeing how quickly you can knock out the foe. The more your Pokémon fight, the more experienced they become, the more they level up, learn new moves and eventually evolve. This system is a fantastic one and it does make the game, its simple yet complicated enough that all types of players will enjoy it. On top of all this the game has great replay value because you Gotta Catch 'em All, so there's another couple of hours added on to your total playing time.

So, what am I trying to say? Pokémon is back? Not quite, but this game is a great game for all of us who fondly remember spending our childhood playing Red or Blue, or even Yellow. The only major complaint that I have with the game is that there is only one game file. I was hoping for three, but it has been one file since the start of the series, so I can't be to disappointed. If you own a Ds, this game is a great pick-up that will keep you entertained for hours.

Pros: Improved graphics, An original Pokémon game, Sound.
Cons: Graphics show off DS's low refresh rate, One save file.

*Review based on Diamond version - Pearl is similar only with different Pokémon

Preview: Starcraft 2

2007-05-21T21:04:00.000-05:00

Nearly an entire decade has passed since the release of the original Starcraft, and after much pleading from fans; the official sequel is on its way. With stunning graphics, new and redesigned units, an overhauled online multiplayer, and a big, fat story line; this one looks like it’s packing quite a punch.

If you, hadn’t noticed, Starcraft is huge. With constant tournaments in Korea and fans begging for a sequel, Blizzard had to do it. And it looks even better than imagined. The overhauled graphics are truly stunning. The in game graphics themselves are quite possibly the best in any strategy game. As well, many new units are being developed. Although full info is yet to come, it is known that some new units include an ultra-powerful ship for the Protoss. The redesigned units include some units with shielding and others with transportation abilities. Although the info is light and there is no official release date, the game looks very promising. Here are some screen shots to wet your appetite.

Preview: Vedran

Review: Halo 2 (Xbox*)

2007-05-10T20:45:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 10/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay 10/10
Replay Value- 10/10
Overall- 10/10

The original Halo put the Xbox on the map. The insults against the Microsoft system couldn't stand against this shocking shooter. And now, Halo's back, and it is SWEET!

Halo 2 basically picks up where the original left off and the Covenant want payback. The game definitely shows of its power in the visuals. First off, expect to see some superb designs. But the game really shines in its graphics, and they are SHINY. The details are wonderfully deep and make the game very realistic. As well, the overall picture and colors are crisp and clean. Besides the actual great graphics, the designs are definitely original and well done. The designs of the human soldiers, weapons, and vehicles are very realistic and are what you would expect them to be in the future. This is very good as it adds to the game's realism. As well, the Covanent designs are alien, imperialistic, and fit the idea of a marauding civilization of space. The environments, too, are quite stunning. Weapons, vehicles, and ammo are placed well throughout the maps. Also, the setup of the levels adds to the strategy of the game with abilities such as flanking your enemies and taking up sniping positions. These designs add to the already superb gameplay.

As you venture through the game, you'll usually find yourself on the move, heart pumping, with your guns constantly dishing out hot lead and searing plasma. You'll be armed with plenty of weapons from the human Battle Rifle to the Covenant Carbine and even from the famous (or infamous for some people) rocket launcher to the new Energy Sword, fresh from the Covenant weapon lineup. As mentioned, you'll be in a near constant state of movement and firefights. This means this game is overflowing with adrenaline. But this game isn't all about the rush, you'll have to make use of smart strategy and quick thinking to survive. The end result is a stunning combination of action and on-the-go planning and choices which makes for great realism. Adding to this is your arsenal. As I said it's quite large and varied. But also, the weapons are made just right, with each one having its own crisp sound and feel. But the burst from a SMG isn't the only good sound here. The music is quite superb, in fact, it's a pretty big highlight. From the start screen to the end credits, orchestral music mixed with a bit of rock and a pinch of techno will drive you through the action. Songs are well placed in the levels to bestow emotions of fear, excitement, and many others. If you don't know already, Halo's music is quite famous, and the same goes for Halo 2's. The tunes will definitely be welcomed by many ears. And don't worry about finishing this game, as the multiplayer is very well built with plentiful and will keep you coming back.

In the end, Halo 2 is a game with stunning graphics and even better gameplay with plenty of options. As well, the soundtrack is powerful, deep, and raises the game to another level. It's no wonder this game is so big.

Pros:Lots of action with many choices on how to fight. Great graphics and designs. Superb music and sound. Great multiplayer.
Cons: None.

Review: Vedran

*Also available for the PC, review for Xbox only.

Review: Super Paper Mario (Wii)

2007-05-07T11:14:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9/10
Sound- 8.5/10
Gameplay- 9.5/10
Replay Value- 8/10
Overall- 8.5/10

A classic Mario game with RPG elements...How could you go wrong? The biggest feature of this game is the ability to flip from 2-D to 3-D, and that works very well.

Super Paper Mario is my current "holdover" game. A "holdover" game is a game that I might not buy at full price except for it's the only good game out at the time. This is by far one of the better Holdover games that I have gotten...Although I have gotten games like 007: Agent Under Fire and Sonic Adventure 2 Battle in the past. Anyway, onto the game, it was basically advertised as a major update to the Paper Mario Series while retaining some of the RPG elements that we have come to expect from Paper Mario games. It did achieve what it said by adding an entire to aspect with the 2-D to 3-D ability. However, the RPG elements that it retained are very mild. Basically you can raise your HP after awhile and you can use items to attack enemies, which I never have really used. This does help the game, but fans of the turn-based combat of previous Paper Mario games will be disappointed because I have yet to encounter any turn-based combat. I think it would have been really cool to have all the boss fights as Turn-Based. That might have taken away from these boss fights, because they are some of the best I have seen in quite some time. Most games try and make the bosses big, scary, and a graphical wonder. Super Paper Mario makes the fight unique, interesting, and really fun. Speaking of graphical achievements...this game is not one. It's hard to have a Mario game as a graphics-driven game, but this game has decent graphics. You can see this the most when you flip to 3-D. I guess the best way to describe the graphics is "sharp." That is the game doesn't have any truly rough graphical features in it.

The other things that work well is multiple characters. You can play as Mario, (duh) Luigi, Peach, and Bowser. Yes Bowser, you see you are not actually after Bowser in this game, you are after Count Bleck. How does this happen? you ask, Well, pay attention to how the story unfolds and you will learn. I am telling you to pay attention because you might find it hard to follow the story because there is way to much talking, and not only that, it also makes a really bad sound whenever someone is talking. As long as I'm talking about things that make this game an 8.5, a lack of dash button comes to my mind. When I was reading other reviews for this game I thought that the lack of the dash button that we have come used to classic Mario games was a lame excuse to knock off points for the score. Well I was wrong. When I'm playing the game I always reach over to use the dash button, which results in me using my Pixl, (little creature that help you with various tasks along the way) I have just grown to used to the dash button. But as I was saying before, the multiple character work well, and they add reply value because you can go back to other courses and use each character's unique abilities to achieve more points and unlock new items.

Right now this is the best game that the Wii has out, and may be for awhile. You should cough up the $50 because it's a classic Mario with RPG elements...damn you Nintendo, that is how I think of the game now. Seriously, it is a good game and is worth the purchase.

Pros: Classic Mario, Multiple characters, Graphics are fine, Mild RPG elements work well, good replay value, 2-D to 3-D.
Cons: No dash button, Way to much talking.

Review: Dan

Review: Monster Hunter (PS2)

2007-05-05T19:05:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 7/10
Sound- 8.5/10
Gameplay- 8.5/10
Replay Value- 9/10
Overall- 8.5/10

Monster Hunter by Capcom is an RPG in which hunt monsters, like the title implies. However, the main premise of the game is to carve dead monsters for parts which the player uses for weapons and items. This system, whether it sounds like it or not, works very well, and creates a fun and unique experience.

As soon as I heard about this game, I was excited. The whole monster-carving thing seemed like a cool idea. Thankfully, it worked very well, because now that I think about it, it could have been horrible. This game has both single-player and online multiplayer. At the time I got the game, I didn't have online, so I played offline. The offline part is okay. You talk to the town elder to get quests. They start off incredibly easy, and gradually get harder. The difficulty is rated by stars, with 5-star quests being the hardest. The thing is, in the first 2 stars, you barely hunt any monsters that can cause you significant harm. But in 3-star quests you get to fight more deadly prey. Unfortunately for me, I was really bad at first and had horrible weapons and armor. If I were to have reviewed it then, I probably would have given it a 5 or a 6.

But then my friend encouraged me to get the online because he said he was getting it, so I decided to finally get online for my PS2. This move was well worth it. The online portion of the game is very well done. First of all, there are more monsters you can fight. These are mainly ones that would be too hard to fight offline by yourself. This brings me to my second point: more materials to carve. These are used for the third point: more armor and weapons. The variety is truly incredible. The weapons get more powerful and the armor protects more. Also, there were a ton of people online to play with. Another advantage of online play: playing with someone better than you to get better stuff for yourself. Most of the quests from offline are here, but the game gets right to the action with some hunting quests in 1-star. There are up to 6-star quests online, with the 6-star ones being near impossible to beat alone, and still hard to do with 4 HR 20's (HR = "Hunter Rank" = level of character; 20 is the highest level). There are some quests that are very easy for 6-star (kill 20 ioprey), but also some that are very hard (powderstone, four horns).

The graphics in this game are decent; they sure could have been a lot worse. But there is so much clipping in this game that it's a little distracting. The soundtrack however, while a little repetitive, is very well done. It is orchestral, and fits the mood of the game very well. The sound effects also work well, although they are repeated for several different weapons.

If this game doesn't sound like a game for you, it might not be. It does take a while to get a very good character, especially if you play offline. The game also gets repetitive, even with all of the different weapons, armor, and enemies. Also, the game has been out for a few years. While there are still people online, there are only about a third of the amount at the game's peak. That doesn't mean you won't have fun, though, because the game is fun. It just means there is probably a different game you will like more. Also, a sequel has been out in Japan for a while, but it doesn't seem like the sequel is coming here to the States. Strangely enough, though, Monster Hunter Freedom has been released for the PSP, and a sequel is scheduled to be released later this year.

Pros: Lots of monsters, tons of upgradeable weapons, orchestral soundtrack, online.
Cons: Gets repetitive after a while, graphics could be better.

Review: Eric

Review: Super Mario 64 DS (DS)

2007-05-05T10:12:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9.5/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 9/10
Replay Value- 10/10
Overall- 9/10

Messing with one of the greatest games of all time? What are they crazy they? What...it's actually good? Oh, then it's ok.

As you can tell, when this game first came out I was very nervous, they could really screw up one of the greatest games of all time. After it came out it started to get positive reviews and it put my mind a bit more at ease, but I still wanted to see for myself. Now that I own the game, my mind is 100% at ease. Much like New Super Mario Bros. they managed to stick close to the original formula while still adding plenty of new stuff, so you aren't buying Super Mario 64 (which still would have sold really well.) The biggest update to this game is the graphics. They have been updated greatly and some levels even have new graphics all together. When I say the graphics have been updated, I guess I really should say they have been sharpened, because that is what really happened. As for new graphics, go to levels like Tick-Tock Clock to understand what I'm saying, but certain aspects of the game have new stuff on them....it's hard to explain. Another update is to some of the levels, they have newly added parts. While some levels are kept the same, other have newly added areas, usually pertaining to a new star. Usually these new areas are fine, however I strongly disagree with what they did to Tick-Tock Clock. They added more floor. Anyone who has played the original will know that falling from type of significant height almost always assures you death. Now its near impossible to die. To test this I randomly jumped of the edges 10 time and I only died twice.

As I hinted at before some of the stars have been changed. However, the main thing with the stars is the addition of them. In the original game there were 120 stars, now there are 150. one of the big ways that this is achieved is with the "5 silver stars" star. This is basically like the classic eight red coin missions, only with five silver stars. Along with that there many other minor changes made to the stars that only hard-core players of Super Mario 64 will notice. Believe it or not the star-changing is not the big problem that I have. The biggest problem that I have is the controls. More specifically the D-Pad. This game is meant to be played with an analog stick, end of story. Nintendo tried to fix this problem by adding the option to use the touch screen as an analog stick, and well that just doesn't work. It is way to hard to get used to and can end up costing you a lot more lifes than the D-Pad costs you (I can't tell you how many lifes it has cost me.) Other than that I really have no big problems with the game. Could the graphics be better? Maybe, but they will do just fine and there are only a few instances where you notice them being poor. In fact, I was impressed at the leap between this game and the original cartridge for the N64. The other big thing with this game was the multiple characters. This works a lot better than I thought. All the character have there own abilities that make you think before you attempt to get a star. Yoshi can to his classic quick feet movement that gives you an extra little bit on your jump and can save you in tight situations. Mario can do his wall jump. Wario is extra strong and is the only one that can break the black boxes. Finally Luigi can jump really high and do a helicopter move after a backflip so he can gently float to the ground.

This is one of the main reasons I purchased the DS as was the original with the N64. Fans of that game will love this game for it's added content and enhanced graphics as well as the multiplayer aspect, which isn't half bad. The multiplayer is basically seeing who can collect the most stars in a certain amount of time, but you can hit the stars out of other player leading to utter chaos. It's unfortunate that you can't play the mini-games as multiplayer. The mini-games are unlocked by catching rabbits throughout the game and most of them are really good and incorporate the stylus well. Enough rambling, the bottom line is this game is well worth the 30-35 dollars you will pay. Buy it.

Pros: Enhanced graphics, Multiple characters, Multiplayer, More stars, More stuff in general.
Cons: Controls, Some level/Star changes are for the worse.

Review: Dan

Review: Gripshift (PS3)

2007-04-24T18:05:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 7/10
Sound- 8.5/10
Gameplay- 6/10
Replay Value- 6/10
Overall- 6.5/10

Gripshift for the PS3 looked like a nice racing game to get since there aren't too many games out right now, and for only $10 and loads of content, I decided I couldn't pass it up. However, it gets repetitive quick and after you realize this, nothing will keep you coming back for more.

If you read my preview of Gripshift, you know that I thought Gripshift would get repetitive. And it most certainly is. There are a nice variety of tracks, and although I'm not sure about the exact number, there are a LOT of tracks. Unless you have OCD and you must complete every game you own 100%, you will get bored. And even then, you will still probably get bored. This game is incredibly repetitive. To worsen the situation, the game features a steep learning curve. There are five difficulty levels: beginner, easy, intermediate, hard, and insane. Beginner is too easy. Easy is mostly easy, with some occasional hard objectives that require excellent timing to complete. Intermediate is somewhat easy, but starts to get a lot harder. Hard is pretty damn hard. Insane, well, to be honest, I gave up on this game before I got to insane, but I imagine it would be pretty freakin' insane. The game gets hard fairly quickly, and people with short attention spans (me) will get bored really quickly.

To mix up the gameplay, there are a few different environments the tracks are in. They all look nice, but there was nothing that wowed me. The cars also are well done, with cartoony graphics that actually add to the gameplay in the same way Katamari Damacy's did; it draws you into the experience. Also, the game features a techno soundtrack that fits well into the game. The soundtrack has good songs, and plenty of them, I think somewhere upwards of 30. I don't listen to techno, but I found several songs that I like.

That about sums up the single player section. Except for the racing. Yea, the racing... it's not very good. In the preview, I thought it was too easy. Well, the race that was featured was the first race in the entire game. The racing is easy in beginner and easy, a little harder in intermediate, challenging but still doable, and insane is near impossible. The racing features a "weapon system;" I guess you can call it that. There are three items: shield, TNT, and rockets. The shield is self-explanatory, the TNT is like a bomb or a mine, and the rocket is a homing missile. Simple enough, only the homing missile, the most useful of the weapons, has a tendency to suck. Turn sharply, and it will zoom right past you. And don't even try to use it on loops; it will only hit the enemy if they are two feet in front of you. The only multiplayer is online, which wouldn't necessarily be a bad thing, except for there aren't many people online. On the plus side, there is a good sense of speed, and the game does feature simple and easy-to-use controls. So if you have $10 to spend and you need to play a decent racing game on the PS3, or you really like techno, buy this game. Otherwise, this game is a pass.

Pros: Only $10, soundtrack, simple controls, lots of tracks.
Cons: Repetitive, steep learning curve, repetitive, nobody online, repetitive.

Review: Eric

Review: Dynasty Warriors 4 (PS2*)

2007-04-22T17:51:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 4/10
Sound- 6/10
Gameplay- 4/10
Replay Value- 6/10
Overall- 5/10

The 4th part of the Dynasty Warriors series- not much has changed... and that's a problem, a BIG problem.

Dynasty Warriors 4 is simple enough. You're in ancient China fighting thousands of cloned foot soldiers, squashing them like ants. As you rampage through the bland battlefield, a rock'n'roll soundtrack with a hint of the orient rages. This is the basic premise of Dynasty Warriors 4, just like 2 and 3.

The gameplay involves using the same two buttons to attack over and over again, making the game horridly repetitive and boring. Although you might find a few power ups and mounts such as horses and elephants along the way, it doesn't change. I've said it and I'll say it again- this game is PAINFULLY repetitive... As well, the graphics are so bland it's like you never change battlefields. Although the game allows you you to use different characters and unlock more along the way, it still plays the same in the same bland battlefields. The only bright spot is the music, for some. The mix of hard, metal rock and Chinese instruments might be welcomed by some, but it'll be annoying to others. The graphics, as I said, are bland. Although the player characters are actually well designed, the enemies in the game are all the same, and most of the time, that's all you'll see- the cloned soldiers and you. And as for the environments, I've already mentioned them- not good.

Dynasty Warriors 4 is a game that uses the same gameplay, same enemies, same environments, and same music throughout... no thank you.

Pros: Some might like the music, and the player's character looks cool.
Cons: Repetitive, repetitive, and repetitive. Bland environments and bland enemies.

Review: Vedran

* Also for Xbox, review only for PS2.

Editorial: Xbox 360 Elite- Is It Worth It ???

2007-04-22T13:02:00.000-05:00

Many would wonder what the deal is with the 360 Elite. Is it even worth the money? Well, it's really up to the consumer. The main features of the Elite are an HDMI output and 120 gig hard drive. As well, the Elite has a matte black finish. What's missing though is a built in HD drive, meaning you still have to buy it separately. As well, the 120 GB hard drive can be bought separately. Also, the HDMI output can only be used on HDTVs with the HDMI input, and TVs such as this can be quite pricey. There is no real reason to trade in a regular 360 even if you have a TV with a HDMI input, the picture may not be that different from a component connection which also gives you a HD picture. And as I said, the 120 GB hard drive can be bought separately. The only real reason to get the Elite is if you don't have a 360 AND if you have the extra cash. Basically, the Elite plays the same games, MAY look a bit better through the HDMI output, and is matte black. This is just another 360 in my opinion...

Review: Guild Wars (PC)

2007-04-15T22:29:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9.5/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 10/10
Overall- 9.5/10

Many people would have you believe that the only good thing about Guild Wars is that it's an MMO without a monthly fee. This is far from the truth. The fact that you get a huge online world without a monthly fee is just icing on the cake. Guild Wars offers tons of adventure, pvp, and story packed into a huge, wonderful, and beautiful world. This one is a must.

Many people would tear me apart if I said this game was better than WOW, about 8.5 million people would tear me apart, actually. But I really don't care, I'm here to give facts, not opinions. The first thing to note about Guild Wars is that it's online RPG without a monthly fee. But this is far from the only good thing about Guild Wars, in fact, this is just icing on the cake. The moment you get to the log on screen, an amazing score takes you away into a world of wondrous fantasy and adventure. Along with the beautiful music, the sound effects of this game are very clear and sharp. The sound really makes the game much more immersing. Along with the superb sound are some fine graphics. I will tell you now that the graphics are certainly NOT the best out there. Even so, the graphics are better than many other MMOs. But the reason the visuals are so wonderful is due to the game's stunning design. The environment, which is one of the most important parts of a RPGs, keeps you in the game's world with lands of rolling hills, snowy mountain peaks, amazing cities, dense forests, and the list just keeps going. The artists really took their time to design a world of true fantasy. Your surroundings are always filled with color and lots of detail. You can easily be taken by the environments.

But now it's time to focus on the most important part of a game- how it actually plays. Guild Wars easily delivers in terms of visuals and sound, but does its gameplay actually hold up to today's RPGs? Short answer- yes, it does, easily. Many would scorn this game as it has a level cap of level 20. But that's not the game's main RPG point. As with many RPGs, you have skills to use according to your character class. In fact, you have well over 100 of the most detailed skills in any RPG. These is where the game really shines. You can learn as many skills as you want, but you can only equip 8 skills for use. Also, every skill has very detailed effects. For example- you get +10 attack with a melee weapon, but if target blocks, you deal 10 damage only, but target is knocked down. In fact, this is actually one of the simpler skills available. These features make the gameplay heavy on quick strategy and smart skill combinations. As you level up, the effects of your skills get better and more skills become available, but you have to make smart choices when choosing which skills to use and how to do so. As I said, the skills available depend on your class, which can be- Warrior, Ranger, Mesmer, Elementalist, Necromancer, and Monk. From these professions, you can choose a primary and a secondary class. Along with all the skills you use throughout the game, you also come across various weaponry and armor that can be customized for various effects.

A very interesting part of Guild Wars is that it eliminates most of the grind that plagues so many MMORPGs by making gameplay very quest heavy. The easiest way to get armor, weapons, skills and experience is by completing the hundreds of quests available. Another interesting feature is the choice of making a RPG character or a PVP character. By choosing a PVP character, you get a level 20 character right away and can fight in arena style PVP matches. The problem is, you can't adventure into the actual world of Guild Wars and you can only use a small selection of armor and weapons. Although, if you choose the RPG character, you start from level one, and grow to level 20 with all the explorable areas open to you and access to all the weapons and armor available. Once an RPG character reaches level 20, they too can fight in arena PVP just like PVP characters. As well, lower level RPG characters have access to some PVP arenas, but the choices aren't as big as those in the level 20/ PVP only arenas.

Guild Wars is a game with a lot to offer- online play, PVP, a huge world filled with stunning creatures and environments, and tons of quests. Along with this, you get an amazing musical score with some of the best fantasy designs in a game. As well, you can travel endlessly through the world, so that, along with the PVP, keeps you playing for months on end. Guild Wars is easily one of the best games out there.

Pros: Lots of quests in a huge and stunning world. Wonderful designs. Great gameplay with lots of action and strategy. Great soundtrack.
Cons: Not the best graphics out there.

Review: Vedran

Review: Brain Age: Train Your Brain in Minutes a Day!

2007-04-15T18:23:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 8/10
Sound- 9.5/10
Gameplay- 9/10
Replay Value- 8.5/10
Overall- 8.5/10

Brain Age is a great pick up for the price, but be warned this is not for every one. It strays away from typical video games and actually forces to think. Seriously.

Brains age is Nintendo trying to capture a different audience when it comes to Video Game. They where aiming for an adult audience, if you remember the commercials that ran when this game first came out. It was aimed at the "forgetful" adult, who wants to improve their brain power. This game apparently achieved that because it is one of the best selling games for the DS. To me it is pretty obvious why. It is actually a good game, I did not expect to like it as much as I did. From your first brain age check you will become hooked on lowering it to twenty. The problem is that when you get it low you might not play for a few days because you are afraid of re-lowering it, or you risk having to take a test that you are bad at. Speaking of tests let's talk about those seeing as that is the main point of the game.

The first two tests I'll talk about are the most obvious ones, the calculation tests. There is Calculation x20 and Calculation x100. The two tests are basically said numbers of different types of Math problems. Calculation x20 is obviously the easier of the two, but not just because there is a lower amount of problems, they also seem to be easier. Calculation x100 is much more grueling and annoying (in that good "I'm so close" way.) The only big problem is you will most likely have problems with some numbers at first, mainly four and eight. The problem with four is that sometimes it can be misread as a nine, which is understandable. The bigger of the two problems it eight - you have to draw it perfectly straight and that is pretty hard when you are trying to go really fast. After awhile though you won't have that much of a problem. The next test is Syllable Count. This test is simple enough, yet addictive. You are given a phrase and you have to write the correct amount of syllables. The first time you attempt this test you might be surprised, because it is actually harder than it seems. The first couple of times I was surprised at my overall score, but by the third time I was much improved (yes, the game does actually work.) I still remember the first time I didn't get any wrong, it was surprisingly exciting. The next test is by far the worst one - Reading Aloud. You are given a passage and you have to read out loud as fast as you can..don't slur though. There are two problems A.) You feel like a complete idiot, and B.) It is way two easy to cheat, you can just hit next even if you haven't read the passage. Thank god you have the option of saying weather or not you can speak aloud. Nest is Head Count. One of the hardest ones by far. You have to count a certain number of people and then a house falls down in front of them. People then start to enter or leave the house. You have to keep track of the number of people in the house because at the end you have to write the correct number of people in the house. Lastly we have is Low to High. Sets of numbers are shown on the left and you have to quickly memorize them because once they disappear you have to touch the correct boxes from low to high on the right side. There are a few other tests I didn't mention, mainly because they are nothing special and they work well.

The other aspect of the game is the Sudoku. This works out very well mainly because any number problems you experienced seem to melt away during play. This is also helped by the fact that you are given time to make sure the number is read correctly before you accept. There are over 100 puzzles on three varying levels of difficulty, so it's sure to keep any Sudoku avid busy for at least a little bit. The other great thing about this game is Dr. Kawashima - he's hilarious! Just watch his face and you'll see what I'm talking about and some of the tips he gives you are actually pretty useful. The only really bad thing is that you have to unlock certain games and they can take a real long time, at least some of them can. If you are thinking about buying this game be warned this is not a party game, but it is fun in general. Basically Nintendo nailed what they were trying to do by appealing to older gamers so proceed with caution if you aren't and older gamer or if this is something that isn't that appealing to you...if it isn't why are you reading this?

Pros: Sudoku, Dr. Kawashima, Some games work well.
Cons: Some games don't work well, Not a party game.

Review: Dan

Review: Internet Channel (Wii)

2007-04-13T19:39:00.000-05:00

Overall - 8.5/10

The trial version of the Internet Channel was very well done but it did lack a lot of features. The final version of it seems to have cleared up most of those problems rather nicely.

Ever since I got the trial version of the Internet channel I was very excited to see what could be done with the final version and if you can't already figure it out, I am very impressed. They managed to clear up one of my biggest problems with the trial version. The loading time. Starting up the channel took forever, a good two minutes sometimes. Now, it seems like it won't take longer than thirty seconds. Speaking of loading times, the pages also seem to load quicker, always a welcomed improvement to any web browser. The improved loading times appear to have helped Nintendo achieve their original goal of making the Internet Channel something that can be used "quickly during commercials to look up that actors name." In addition they also added parental controls making it more family friendly, stressing the whole family aspect that Nintendo is trying to achieve with the Wii.

Those aren't the only think that Nintendo/Opera has improved on. They have improved zooming and scrolling. The zooming still has set levels to zoom but rather than there only being to set levels there are multiple levels, allowing you to get nice and detailed. Unfortunately, there does not appear to be clear zoom feature. As for the scrolling, I never had a big problem, but lots of people apparently complained. Now I can see why people were complaining because the new style is much easier to use. Another thing is you can now store up to 48 favorites, and while I never hit the limit before, more is always welcome. Moving right along, next we have the built in search feature. It's nice but not 100% necessary, but I guess it does make searching faster. Next, we have new cursor animations and operation sounds. They both weren't needed but they do look/sound cool, so it's positive. In addition they have added the option to delete cookies (pervert) and also have added a built-in support manual (definitely helpful for some). Lastly, you can now enter an address from the toolbar. Before you had to go back to the home page to do this. Along with those improved features there are many other ones that I didn't mention.

My only true problem with the browser is it's lack of support for certain types of pages. There are plenty that it does support but there are some missing. The biggest one being the new Yahoo Mail (Beta). One of Nintendo's goals was to allow people to check there email from the living room. Sorry Nintendo, not working out so well for me. There are other pages that aren't supported, I just don't know the type. The only thing you need to know from reading this is that you should download this. Even after June when it costs 500 Wii Points ($5.) It is well worth it and hopeful will be even more worth it in the feature (Opera should be able to improve it via download-able updates .)

Pros: All improvements/changes seem to work well.
Cons: No clear zoom function, Certain types of sites lack support.

Review: Dan

Review: Ratchet and Clank 3: Up Your Arsenal (PS2)

2007-04-10T16:29:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9.5/10
Sound- 9.5/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 10/10
Overall- 10/10

Ratchet and Clank 3: Up Your Arsenal is the best game in the series from Insomniac. They took what worked well from the previous game, and added multiplayer, both split-screen and online, to create a very fun adventure that shouldn't be missed.

If you've read my reviews for the first two games, you'll notice that I am a huge fan of the Ratchet and Clank series. And after the second one, I was very excited to see what would be in store in the next edition. And, even with such high expectations, those expectations were met. No, exceeded. This game throws you right in the action and never lets you out. There is never a dull moment in this game. And because of this, this game is a little harder than Going Commando. I think this is because the developers were assuming if you are playing this one, you have played the one or both of the previous two, so you know what you are doing. Also, as a side note, this game is making me incredibly excited for Ratchet and Clank Future: Tools of Destruction (the next game in the series, coming out on PS3 later this year, if you didn't know).

Up Your Arsenal looks about the same as Going Commando, as in there are no huge graphical upgrades, but this definitely isn't a bad thing. The universe that Insomniac has created is vast and brings the game to life. And so does the sound. The weapon sound effects are fantastic and unique, and the background music is creative and fits well in this universe. The graphics aren't perfect, though, as there are some minor clipping issues, especially with big head mode. On the plus side, however, they have fixed the camera problems from the previous game. Also, even when the screen is loaded with enemies, there is no lag to speak of, which is quite an accomplishment for a later-gen PS2 game. Plus, the developers added in a new control scheme, called Lock-Strafe mode. Although it took a little getting used to, it paid off because it is very useful.

This game is shorter than the previous one, and about as long as the first, maybe a little longer. Because of this, you can finish the story in a weekend (which I have actually done). But I said story for a reason. There is so much to do in this game that it would be impossible to finish 100% in one weekend. The weapon upgrading is back in this version, but now you can upgrade your weapons to eight different versions (five in first run-through, three in challenge mode), as opposed to only three in Going Commando. Also, titanium bolts (gold bolts in Ratchet and Clank 1, platinum bolts in Ratchet and Clank 2) are back, and instead of using them for weapon upgrades as in the first two, they are used to by skins for Ratchet during the game. Gameplay with Clank is just about gone, as you will only use him three or four times throughout the whole game. I was rather disappointed with this move, as the Clank sections are often the most creative gameplay-wise in the whole game.

The thing that sets Up Your Arsenal apart from the previous two games was the addition of multiplayer. There are three different game modes: deathmatch, capture the flag, and siege, where there are two teams trying to destroy each other's base. The game is fun to play with your friends in split-screen, but really shines online. The online system worked very well. The only bad part was that stats could be somewhat manipulated and the ranking system was a little finicky at times. Other than that, though, the system was very solid for Insomniac's first attempt at online. By the way, I have checked, and even though this game was released in 2004, and a sequel (Ratchet: Deadlocked) has come out, people are still playing this game online. This game is amazing and you should buy this game if you are looking for a fun, and funny, adventure.

Pros: Somehow better than Ratchet and Clank 2, online multiplayer, funny, controls.
Cons: Some clipping issues, (almost) no playing as Clank.

Review: Eric

Review: The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion (PS3*)

2007-04-06T12:19:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9.5/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 10/10
Overall- 10/10

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion for the PS3 is the best game out for the PS3 thus far. It is just about the same game as the 360 version, but with added content and improved loading times. And as with the 360 version, this game is a must-buy.

Wow. The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion is simply stunning. If you have a PS3, or a Xbox 360 for that matter, you must buy this game. It is just that good. There is just so much stuff to do. If you have been living under a rock, let me explain what kind of game Oblivion is. It is an RPG set in a huge world with plenty to explore. And like I said before, there is plenty to do. If you like being the warrior, killing everything in sight, you will have fun. If you would prefer to be a mage, casting spells and doing other mage things, you will have fun. And if you just like to goof off and mess around, oh man, will you have fun. The main quest is pretty good, but other than that, there are so many other quests, each as interesting as the next. There are plenty of factions to join, along with a new one for the PS3 version. The combat system works well, and there is plenty of stuff to kill. And once you kill those things, you will discover the immense multitude of items and weapons in the game.

The orchestral soundtrack is a perfect fit for this game. The graphics are also amazing, and everything in the game is super-detailed. But because of the violence, some people might be turned off by this game. The only problem with the graphics is the weird animations for your character. I you don't know what I mean, switch to third-person view, walk in a diagonal line and jump. Other than that, though, this game is nearly perfect. If you need more convincing, read the 360 review.

That being said, this game is, more or less, the same game that came out for the Xbox 360, and all of the extra content can be purchased for the Xbox 360 version. Not that that's a bad thing. It's just that if you have played the 360 version, you know what you are getting. I guess this is the better version, but there isn't much of an improvement. On the other hand, if you can afford an Xbox 360 and a Playstation 3, then you should have enough money to afford both copies. So, like I said before, buy this game. I think my friend described it best when he said, "So, it's like an MMORPG, without the online multiplayer aspect," which is exactly what this game is. A massive RPG. Get this game. You will not be disappointed.

Pros: Plenty to do, graphics are amazing, sound is amazing, very fun, problems with 360 version fixed.
Cons: May not be for everybody, some animations look weird.

Review: Eric

*Also available for the 360. Review for PS3 only.

Editorial: Why "Home" Could Push the PS3 to The Top

2007-04-05T14:51:00.000-05:00

Dan: Damn you Sony. I now want a PS3 more than ever. I will admit to being a pretty big Nintendo fanboy but it looks like Sony is pulling to the top, at least with strong ideas. Let it be known that I was always going to get a PS3, I was just going to wait for a time that I could purchase one without getting shot in the face by a BB... which doesn't hurt as much as you would think. I knew nothing about home until I saw the trailer above and I was floored. The potential that is there is phenomenal. I really hope they don't screw this up.

Eric: To be honest, Home came as a surprise to me. I was hoping Sony would make something that could compete with Xbox Live, but I didn't think they could do it without totally ripping Live off. Instead they decided to rip off Second Life, which is fine with me. Unlike some people, I am very excited about what Sony could do with Home. I am also a little worried. Home could work very well, or it can turn into a scam to get people's money. Hopefully, though, Sony will get this right.

Let's start with what they could get right. They could allow people to see where their friends are and let them join their friends. They could not charge for Home. They could, in addition to having brand-name products, Nike, Adidas, etc., allow users to create their own products to wear. By the way, that was stuff that they should do. Some suggestions that I have would be to have a leaderboard for games in the lobby or somewhere else. Also, if they included some sort of system where you get better stuff the more achievements or the more games you have beaten, that would be pretty sweet. However, I think it would be rather difficult to do this without some people taking advantage and misusing the system.

Now let's talk about what they might do wrong. First off, if they charge for Home, they made a mistake. I expect them to charge for some things in Home, like games, etc., but not for the ability to use Home. They say they won't, but does Sony always keep their promises? Second, if some of the products in Home are relatively expensive (more than $5), they made a big mistake. People had to shell out $600 for the console, they shouldn't have to keep making us pay. Lastly, if they do not include some sort of achievement system, they made a huge mistake. This is one of the best parts in Xbox Live, and adds a sense of competitiveness to every game (nevertheless, games should be worth playing without achievements; achievements should just be an add-on). Sony needs this so you can see if you are better than your friends, assuming you have friends (no offense to lonely people).

Dan: Eric is right, the money aspect worries me. Charging for things would really make the idea sour in my mind. They could really screw up by charging for everything. It appears that they will be charging for upgrades. Such as a bigger house... etc. This is ok with me long as they give you a reasonable sized house to start out with. The other thing that they could mess up is charging for items. I expect there to be items by big companies like NIKE that you can pay for but I hope that Sony will have plenty of free or really cheap items. They could even go as far an in game currency system to buy certain items. To me what they charge for and how much could determine if it sinks or swims. So, they had better not charge for Home. While I would probably shell out the money eventually, it would feel the same to me. I would feel more obligated to play it so I didn't waste my money on something I don't play. If they didn't charge I would pick it up any play at my leisure and enjoy it much more. Lastly, Eric is right - an achievement system of some sort is all but required. It is a huge mistake to not include something along those lines. Look at how successful it is on the 360. The do need a wall of fame for all time high scores on games. Imagine if you were on that wall. To be honest it can make a bad game good. Many games that you wouldn't want to play normally you will want to go back to because you think you can get a really good score that everyone can see.

Eric: Well, that's our opinions about PS3 Home. It'll be good if it's free/cheap and if Sony can do an achievement system well. It'll be bad if it's expensive and doesn't enhance the gaming experience whatsoever. You can expect our preview in April or May (when the beta is supposed to be released) and the final review in fall.

Editorial: Dan, Eric

Review: Super Mario Sunshine (Gamecube)

2007-04-02T18:50:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9.5/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 9.5/10
Replay Value- 9/10
Overall- 9.5/10

Super Mario Sunshine is the sequel to the massively successful Super Mario 64 for the N64. This puts it against some pretty stiff competition. That being said the game is still very well done and manages to incorporate many of the elements of Super Mario 64.

This is one of the better reviewed games on the Gamecube and for good reason. This game manages to recapture a lot of the magic that Super Mario 64 presented, but unfortunately this game isn't as groundbreaking as 64 was. Don't misinterpret that as me saying that it is a bad game, it's still great. The game starts out with Mario, Peach and Toad on a vacation to Delfino Isle. Once they arrive they discover the island has been covered with graffiti. As a result, the islands power source, "Shine Sprites" have disappeared and to make matters worse the person polluting the island is disguised as Mario, leading to him being accused of all the pollution. He is tried and found guilty and must clean up the island as punishment. This is achieved with the help of a hand-dandy little tool called "FLUDD," which of course stands for "Flash Liquidizer Ultra Dousing Device." I give Shigeru Miyamoto props here, as he strayed away from the typical formula of Princess captured, Mario rescue. Well at least for awhile anyway...after a certain number of stars Peach is in fact captured and the focus of the game is shifted to her recuse rather than cleaning. Speaking of cleaning I forgot to mention that it is actually pretty fun even if it doesn't sound like it. In fact, that is the reason I didn't purchase the game when it first came out. I liked Mario games and wanted his next 3D adventure but the thought of you cleaning an island as the main focus just did not appeal to me. I was wrong, the FLUDD does add a whole new, great element to gameplay. Speaking of gameplay another new feature was added that I'm undecided about. It's the blue coins, every ten you collect you can purchase a Shine Sprite. I'm just not sure if you should be able to buy stars in a Mario game, they're about collecting stars and challenging yourself to get them all.

One of the things that was highly touted before this game was released was the graphics. They where touted for a good reason, they where they best on the Cube at that point and still are up towards the top. The best part of the graphics is defiantly the water graphics, which seems appropriate given the goal in the game. Unfortunately you might not get to admire the water graphics all that well because you will not be swimming underwater a lot. This isn't because there isn't opportunities to, because there are, it's because the underwater swimming system is very annoying and hard to control. Unlike Super Mario 64 underwater swimming is something you will want to avoid. Speaking of Super Mario 64, this game is definitely a sequel to it. It has many of the same elements that made is a massive success. You may ask why the score is slightly lower than its successor. That is mainly because this game lacks the newness that Mario 64 presented and is know for. However along with that comes the other thing that Super Mario 64 is well known for - the bad camera and unfortunately the camera is pretty much the same in Sunshine. There is one big improvement in this area , and that is the see-through system. When the camera gets caught and you are behind a building or wall that would normally obscure your view and easily make you lose some of your life everything will became see though. This allows you to be on the look-out for enemies and items and the like.

To me the best feature is the music/soundtrack. The music sets the "tone" nicely for a Mario game. The main music for Delfino Plaza gets annoying because you are in that area so much, but it still catchy, especially when you are riding Yoshi (he's back!) However the best music is far and away when you do "throwback" levels (old Mario side-scroller with a 3D twist.) It's the best because it's the original Mario theme...only it's a capella. C'mon. That is up with the likes of "It's Dangerous!" It just doesn't get any better than that. While that is the best feature the worst feature is something I can't believe was messed with... and that is the stars. They have been fine in previous games, but they just look queer. To be fair they are "Shine Sprites," not stars, but still. Seriously though, the main problem with this game is it's lack of freshness that we expect from a Mario game... hell, a Miyamoto game for that matter. That leads to me not wanting to play the game for as long as I did with Super Mario 64. Then again it might be unfair to compare this game to one of the best games ever (second to me behind Ocarina of Time.) Yet, to argue my point again that is what I was expecting from this game. Wow, I think I've even confused myself now. The point is this is still a great game and should be purchased before stores stop selling Gamecube games.

Pros: Many of the same elements of Super Mario 64, Music (a capella!), Graphics.
Cons: Camera is the same, Queer "stars," No new freshness.

Review: Dan

Review: Baldur's Gate 2: Shadows of Amn (PC)

2007-04-01T19:22:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 10/10
Overall- 10/10

Baldur's Gate 2 is quite a RPG. It has all the ingredients needed for a great role playing game- lots of depth, lots of action, lots of exploration, and A LOT of character choices.

I remember picking up Baldur's Gate 2, I was very interested in it as it is one of THE best RPGs out there. First off, don't worry if you haven't played the first Baldur's Gate as most of it is explained to you in the first part of the game. This is one of the most notable features of Baldur's Gate 2- the conversations. Sometimes characters will walk up to you and talk to you, and the rest of the time it's up to you to talk to people. Once the conversation starts, you'll choose what you want to say to the character. These choices will branch out the conversation into many different directions, some good, some very bad. This in turn effects the entire game, which is a very nice feature that really sucks you right into the game. As well, the choices can have a personal effect on you depending on your class. Here's an example: you choose to be a paladin (think very good knight who deals out justice "efficiently"). Along the way you're looking for answers from someone, but they're not giving them to you. You lose your cool and you choose to hurl insults and threats at the character. This isn't very paladin like, you can't forget that you're a warrior of honor, so there are penalties for this. This system works very well to keep the player in character and in the game's fantastic world. Of course, events like these depend on your class, of which there are many.

When you first start the game, you go through a rather deep character creation process. First off, you choose your gender and portrait (a picture that represents your character in the menus). These choices don't really effect the game, so choose what looks good. After that, you choose your race. The races are quite interesting: humans, dwarfs, elves, half- elves, half orcs, gnomes and halflings. The variation is nice and effects your character's appearance in the game. More importantly though, each race has certain classes it can be and various talents that can either aid you or hold you back in certain areas. All the races have pros and cons, so choose carefully. Next up are the classes, each one will heavily effect the way you play the game. There are plenty on options including paladins, warriors, bards, wizards, rangers and more. Even then, there are a couple specially customized versions of every class, or you can customize the class you choose yourself. This includes attributes such as strength and dexterity. For attributes you receive a certain number of points which you choose how to disperse. Afterwards, you choose which weaponry you're skilled in, for which you get points as well to spend as you see fit. After that, you choose the physical appearance of you character such as hair and skin color. But this is as deep as the customization for your appearance goes. Even still, you've just gone through a lot of choices, these is all before you actually get into the game! And all these choices will really effect how you play the game.

Once you actually start the playing, you'll meet some old friends and, if you choose, you can work together to escape a sort of prison you're stuck in. You should definitely keep the friends you make, you'll need them. Once you unite with others, you have full control over them along with your character. The game is in an isometric view with prerendered graphics and 2D character models. Although the game looks aged for it's time, the colors and details of the world and characters are wonderful, pulling you into this huge fantasy adventure. Your control over the main characters is some what like in a strategy game. You have a cursor with which you select what you want to do: you can click on a character to select them or you can click and drag to select multiple characters, you click on enemies to attack them, you click where you want your characters to go, you click on various items to use or activate them, and you click on the various icons on the side bars to do various actions. The icons available to you do various actions: on the bottom right the formations, which you use to control in which order your characters stand in; on the right are the portraits of all the characters in your party which can be used for quicker character selection; on the bottom left and bottom center are the many actions your characters can do, such as spells and skills, and boxes used for quick item access (such as health potions); and on the right side are icons used for things such as journals and inventory. All these icons are used throughout the game in various ways to help you along your huge journey. When you encounter enemies you click on them to have your selected characters attack. As well, you will make use of the items, skills, and spells your characters have in battle. Because there are so many actions your characters can do in the midst of battle, fighting can get very complicated- from selecting which characters you want to use at a certain point in the fighting to select the enemies you want to attack and which actions you want to do. For this reason you have the choice of making use of the pause and play system. This system basically a turn based feature. You can either choose when the game pauses (such as when an enemy is sighted) so you can select what each character does. As well, you can use the space button to pause the game at any time, allowing a more free formed style of turn based action. And, of course, you can play the game in real time. These options can be selected at any time, seamlessly. But believe me- the game can get very deep and complex during fights. Although, these is the beauty of the game- having plenty of choices even in fights, and lots, and LOTS of depth. This makes for a very classic RPG feeling.

As you journey and fight your character will gain experience points which you use to level up and get stronger. Leveling up gives you plenty of options in which areas you want to get stronger, increasing the amount of character depth and choices available. As well, you'll find and buy many weapons, armor, and items which strengthen your character and, in terms of weapons and armor, change the appearance of your character. This game is very deep. There are plenty of options from your conversations to your battles with epic fantasy creatures. The game big, there's plenty to do and tons of things to see. As you journey on, a wonderful soundtrack surrounds you with an epic fantasy world. As well, the movies have some of the best voice acting ever. All of this is packaged in a deep, complicated, involving, and VERY enjoyable and memorable game. This is a classic RPG to the core- all I can say is that this game is HUGE and unbelievably involving.

Pros: A lot of choices in all that you do, and there is a lot to do. The world is big and full of classic fantasy and memorable creatures and environments. The conversations and battles are very deep. The game is overall a classic and wonderful RPG with great designs throughout.
Cons: The graphics could be better.

Review: Vedran

Review: World of Warcraft (PC)

2007-03-26T21:39:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9/10
Sound- 9/10
Gameplay-10/10
Replay-Infinity/10
Overall- 9.5/10

Wow, this game is huge.The environments and colors that surround you are stunning. As well, there's an endless amount of things to do, and at the same time, the gameplay isn't complicated. It's so simple to play this game that it gets AMAZINGLY addictive.

World of Warcraft can be ranked as one of the most noticed games of our time. A game with a nearly endless, persistent world filled with some of the most fantastic creatures ever is a game that is easy to get hooked to. A bit too easy to get hooked to. First off, the gameplay itself gigantic. From raids to quests and professions to leveling. All of this is packed in a very simple, user-friendly game system. Right click to attack, left click to target, move camera with mouse, move with W A S D (remember that future computer-gaming kiddies: it's was); these are the basic controls you need to know. Along with that, the interface shows you everything you need to know. As well, every class has tons of skills and/or spells that can be placed in boxes on the bottom of the screen for quick use (as with most RPGs). As well, the entire interface is customizable. So you can have everything in reach, where you want it, as you play. But what do you do when you play World of Warcraft? You role play. You hunt, loot, adventure, search, duel, make friends, fight in warlike raids, fly, ride gryphons, ride wyverns, ride horses, ride nightsabers, ride ships, get pets, find treasures. You will get stronger, richer, and armed to the teeth in plate mail and a sword that's the size of a dinner table. You start as a weakling with a torn shirt and a pointy metal stick called a "sword". A few hundred, if not, thousands of hours later, you're covered in shinning armor armed with weapons that literally glow with power atop a powerful and swift mount that carries you through your many adventures (if you want to pay a hefty [in game] price for said mount, that is).

When you start, you choose; who do you want to be: a human or a night elf, a gnome or a dwarf, an undead or a tauren, a troll or an orc? Okay, now what do you want to be: a warrior, a paladin, a hunter, a mage, a rogue, a druid, a shaman, a warlock, or a priest? What do you want to look like, what's your name? Now THAT'S a lot of questions. A lot of good questions. From the beginning you choose how you play this game- do you strike from the shadows, do you rain lethal arrows upon your enemies, or do you walk up to those enemies and smash 'em in the face with a two ton hammer. It's all up to you. There is, from what I know, way more than 2,000 quests in the game. This doesn't count all the leveling, treasure hunting, and PVPing (at least in battle grounds) you do along the way. And, of course, there's a huge world to explore. A world that's filled with dark, haunted forests; great deserts; jungles filled with terrific creatures; snowy mountain ranges and valleys; the list keeps going and going. As well, in this world are battle grounds. These are places where you, along with other players, duke it out with players on the opposite side (the horde if you're on the alliance side, and the alliance if you're on the horde side). These areas can only be entered if you're in the level range and if you choose to enter. Depending on which server you choose, this may be the only real PVP experience. While you PVP by your choice in normal and roleplay servers (realms), the PVP action is quite open on the PVP servers. There's obviously a lot to do in World of Warcraft, and, even better, you choose how to do all these things. And the environment that surrounds you as you do these things is stunning. Although the graphics aren't completely realistic, the design and colors used really fit the graphics. You can easily get sucked in to the world because of this. The environments are very "mythic-like" with a real fantasy feeling. The actual settings range from forests and jungles to valleys, deserts, and mountains and beyond. The character designs of all the races are very memorable, fantastic, and, as the kids say, "cool". As well, the designs of the weapons and armor are stunning and actually look powerful. Along with the many types of weapons and pieces of armor, you put to use many spells and skills that are unbelievably useful.

As you go on your journeys, a powerful music score keeps everything moving and deepens the feeling of a stunning fantasy setting of epic proportion. Everything in this game looks, although somewhat unrealistic, fantastic. The gameplay overflows with adventures, choices, and things to do. Backing all this is an involving, yet simple and overly addictive gameplay system. And although there is a 15 dollar a month fee, you get what you pay for- a huge, fantastic, persistent world with a nearly endless amount of fantasy adventures.

Pros: A lot to do, great music and visuals. Stunning designs and beautiful environments. Very fun and easy to use game system.
Cons: A monthly fee, can take up a lot of time.

Review: Vedran

Review: Wii Play (Wii)

2007-03-18T18:50:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 6.5/10
Sound- 6/10
Gameplay- 6/10
Replay Value- 7/10
Overall- 6/10

This game should have been included with the console at launch, not Wii Sports. The game is training with the Wiimote and a little more. The additional Wiimote is a great reason to buy this game. Like Wii Sports it's a great multiplayer.

Many people will buy this game for the extra Wiimote and that is a great reason to buy this game because dropping fifty dollars for this is not worth it. The Wiimote addition makes each of the nine games cost about $1.11 (a Wiimote costs forty.) The multiplayer in this game is much better than the single player, much like Wii Sports. Again like Wii Sports the single player isn't bad, there is once again a system in place that will keep you coming back again and again. All of the nine games you can get Medals for, ranging from bronze to platinum and with every medal you receive a note on your message board that gives you a tip about that particular game (some of which are actually useful.) I would strongly recommend you buy this because of the Wiimote, but not necessarily alone.

Table Tennis - This game is good, not great. The main problem with this game is that it's way too forgiving. In other words, there are times in this game where you obviously miss the ball but it still counts as a hit. However a positive is the game is easy for all, you just have to move the paddle, this can make putting spin on the ball difficult though. You are not required to swing it like in Wii Tennis, it is all done automatically for you provided that you move to the paddle to the ball in time... or don't. One noticeable thing about this game is the Mii's, in both negative and positive ways. The positive is that the Miis that you make will watch you and more will come as you hit the ball more. The negative is the lack of Miis actually playing the game. Instead of your Mii moving and hitting the ball, it's just your hand. Multiplayer is pretty fun and can provide decent entertainment. Single player is fine but gold medals are way to hard to get.

Laser Hockey - Another example of an ok game, it presents nothing special. This game could be much more fun if it wasn't so annoying. The main reason it annoys me is my arm ends up getting sore because the only position that allows this game to work causes the soreness (you do get used to it.) The only other reason that game annoys me is in game stupidity, weather it's me or the computer. You see, when the game starts there is a certain angle, that if you hit the puck at, is a guaranteed point because the computer can not catch you to it. As for my stupidity, I have encountered many times where I scored a goal on myself , and if I just let it go I would have been fine. This game can be pretty fun if you play it against one of your friend, provided they aren't sore losers because once you get good at the game it will take your friends awhile to catch up to you. The other cool aspect of this game is the neon effect, it does make it "Laser" hockey and it just looks cool.

Fishing - Terrible graphics. That is what I first noticed. It appears to be drawn with crayons... no seriously. Otherwise the game is actually pretty fun once you get the hang of it because that may take awhile. I felt thrown into the game and I had no idea how to work anything at first, but I got used to it and know I like to play the game. One major positive of this game is the way points are distributed. It's no a certain number of points for any given fish. Each fish has a certain number of points attached to it and they can vary depending on size and weather or not it's the bonus fish (x2 points). Whatever you do though do not catch the "Small Fry," it's -50 points and takes away time. On the negative side this game isn't as fun on multiplayer like a majority of the other games, it's just fun to call your friend an idiot for catching a Small Fry when you know very well that you used to do it yourself all the time.

Find Mii - Find Mii can be really fun or terrible, it all depends on weather or not you are good. In this game you are given the simple task of finding a specified Mii. This task however can evolve into many different searching contest all ranging in style and difficulty. In the first contest you have to find to Mii's out of four that look alike. Simple enough right? It gets harder from there. One of your tasks is to find three Mii's that look alike on three sets of rotating escalators and to make matters worse the three Mii's are never on the screen at the same time. Finding Miis is only made harder when it's a Mii that you didn't make. As far as the Multiplayer goes on this game, it can be fun but it is not a game you want to play with a bunch of people over because one of two things will happen. One: they will get incredible bored and not care of Two: they will get over evolved and try and help you out, which will not help you and just annoy you. For single player the gold medal is way to hard to get.

Pose Mii - The worst game out of the nine by far. The games concept is bad from the start: you are to chose from three different poses and match your Mii's pose to the pose created on falling bubbles. The first few levels are easy with the only problem being that the bubbles begin to fall faster (you can't let them fall all the way down.) The real difficulty rolls around at level four when you are forced to switch your Mii's pose to compensate for the bubbles. From there the bubbles only begin to fall faster. This doesn't help you when you're aiming for a gold medal because it is unbelievably hard to get. The other thing that might stop you from getting a medal is you may end up getting distracted by the weird backgrounds that are featured throughout the levels. They are on the WarioWare level of weirdness. They change from flowers to birds to bad acid trip. As far as the multiplayer goes it can provide a challenge because you and your partner each have a set of your own bubbles to pop. The thing is you can pop your partners bubbles for double the points or you can risk letting it pass you and take the chance that he will end up letting it fall all the way.

Shooting - This game is Duck Hunt only with targets and aliens... well I guess it's slightly different than Duck Hunt. The game is simple and easy, yet it can be very fun but repetitive. The designers attempted to avoid this by changing up the targets and making some worth more points and some cost you points (when you shot your face.) You will not sit down and play this game for hours on end while never getting bored. You may play this game a few times and get the gold medal (which is very easy to do, I got it on my first try) but nothing more. The multiplayer aspect doesn't change much from the original, there are just two people shooting at the same targets. The only big change is that if you shot your opponents face you get points. However, one of the best features of this game is the last level where six (three in multiplayer) of your Mii's are being abducted by aliens and you have to stop them. Everyone that you save is worth ten extra points. This can be especially fun when playing multiplayer because you can let your friends Mii's be abducted while you save your own and get the extra thirty points that might push you over for the win.

Billiards - The main problem is that the controls take getting used to. The controls involve heavy use of the the "B" button and it can kind of get confusing. The other problem for some people is the way you hit. You pull back with the Wiimote and let go of "B" as you push forward for a good and hard hit. Unfortunately some of my friends seem to have problems with this so I don't know how easier it is for beginners. Once you master the controls the game can actually be somewhat fun. However in single player the gold take a lot of practice and time because of the game you are forced to play. You are playing billiards, not pool. In other words you have to hit the target ball first and this can be really annoying if the ball is behind another one. This forces you to bank the ball and that is very hard to do with the camera set-up. The default camera is zoomed in on the cue and you can change it by hitting "A," which will show an overhead view. The problem with this is that the default view is still shown in the background of the new view and you can not accurately judge banking angles of the cue ball.

Charge! - This game is the best in my mind. It's amazingly fun... partly because you are riding a cow! Now come on what can get better than that? I could only say "It's Dangerous!" or Ocarina of Time (just kidding, but seriously riding cows is awesome.) There is only one big problem with this game and that is the controls. To go forward you have to tilt the Wiimote forward, and that can take a little bit of getting used to. Using a button to go forward would have been easier but not as fun, because after you're used to tilting forward you hardly even realize that your doing it. Other than that the controls are fairly simple; tilt to the side to turn and jerk upwards to jump. Now other than riding a cow you have to knock down scarecrows, which is the point of the game. You are given a time limit and you haver to knock down as many scarecrows as possible. Scarecrows are worth a point each and they come in sets of five. There are also scarecrows that move from side to side and are worth fifteen points (they are way to easy to hit.) The only negative for this game is that the gold medal is way to easy to get. Other than that every aspect is very well done, even the multiplayer.

Tanks! - The most complex game out of the pack, but you have seen this game many times before. You control a tank and you have to shot down the other tanks that appear on the screen (this is from a birds-eye view.) This game is fun for awhile, but it's nothing special because odds are you have played something very similar to this many times before. This is also the only game that doesn't use the motion sensing capability's of the Wii/Wiimote. It's also the only game that you need the Nunchuck...well you can use the D-Pad but that is much harder than the Nunchuck to use. In single player the medal is way to hard to get...or maybe I just suck but I like the multiplayer better because it's co-op. It's hard for me to say anything more because this is the game that I play the least and I expect to keep it that way.

The only reason that you should consider buying this game is for the Wiimote. Sure some of the games are fun but it's not worth it, not even for the multiplayer. You might want to buy this game if you are a complete noob at the Wii because it does a nice job of teaching you how to use it. If this game is ever released without the Wiimote and it's cheaper, than you should buy it for the multiplayer. I also forgot to mention that at the main screen where you choose the games, all the Miis that you made appear in the background, and they do stupid things that make them look ridiculous, such as swimming in mid-air.

Pros: Charge!, Shooting, Laser Hockey, Table Tennis, Billiards after awhile, Miis in the background.
Cons: Pose Mii, Tanks is nothing new, Billiards at first, Some medals are hard to get.

Review: Dan

Review: Rush 2: Extreme Racing USA (N64)

2007-03-15T21:41:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9/10
Sound- 4/10
Gameplay- 8/10
Replay Value- 7/10
Overall- 7.5/10

Rush 2: Extreme Racing USA is what the title says...Rush 2. The game is good but doesn't do much to improve on the original formula. The main difference is that it isn't "San Fransisco" it's "USA." The game is slightly better than the first thanks to a few improvements.

Ah yes, Rush 2. Rush re-released, only this time it was exclusively for the N64. You can just read my review for the original game and understand this game. The game is generally the same with some minor improvements. I got this game because, as I mentioned before, Rush was amazing to me at the age I got it. If you can follow that logic to me Rush 2 would have been phenomenal. Well it's not. There are many great features in this game such as the graphics. Once again the level of detail that went into this game is out of this world for an N64 game; and this is really shown off when you drive through a city. Once again the cars themselves look really good and life-like. The cars look good until you crash into something that is, because once again the collision damage is terrible. No matter where you get hit the damage will be in the same place. If you are hit in the front the damage will show up in the back, as well as the front. If the collision damage really bothers you, you could ram straight into a wall instead of crashing into and bouncing off. However you might actually do this a few times because the explosions look really cool, unrealistic (like the air time), but cool nonetheless. There is an improvement as far as cars go and that is the ability to customize cars. This feature is heavily pushed in the game and can really make or break you in a race.

While the graphics stayed the same, one major change was the music. In the original Rush the music was abysmal. While the music still sucks out loud it is a great improvement from what it was before. The music is still weird Techno-Reggae mix with bizarre screaming at points. I would still recommend muting your television set, but if for some reason you can't you can wait longer before smashing your skull in than you could before. While the music obviously isn't the greatest part, it's pretty obvious what is...the shortcuts/stunts. These two elements make the game what it is and the shortcuts are what the game is know for. There is once again a heavy emphasis on shortcuts, although it may be slightly less than before, it's hard to judge. Unlike the shortcuts the stunts are dramatically different in this game. While you still get unrealistic air time there is a course designed specifically for stunts and this is the best part of the game by far. The countless hours that I spent driving around that large and rather nicely laid out course is unreal. On top of that playing the stunt course on multilayer is even better because you are given points based on your stunts (the system is pretty straight forward.) I remember one time my friend I were playing and trying to get the highest air time. I got an 18, which was the highest any of us had gotten at the time, so I was pretty cocky... only to see my friend land a 24 air time with two seconds left. I did manage to get a 28 later, and that record still stands today. As you can see this can be pretty damn entertaining. To contrast that the worst part is Midway decided to get rid of "It's Dangerous!" What the Hell?!?! However, the game is relatively the same as before. If you don't like the sound of the stunts aspect, then don't buy this game... unless you want different courses for San Francisco Rush: Extreme Racing.

Pros: Stunt course, Graphics, Shortcuts, Exaggerated gravity.
Cons: No "It's Dangerous," Collision damage graphics, Same as before.

Review: Dan

Review: MotorStorm (PS3)

2007-03-14T21:09:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9.5/10
Sound- 9.5/10
Gameplay- 9/10
Replay Value- 8/10
Overall- 9/10

If you have a PS3, you probably downloaded the demo for MotorStorm, played it, and have been waiting for the game to come out. It's finally here, but was it worth the wait? The short answer: yes. The long answer: read the review.

First of all: the graphics. Holy crap, the graphics. They are simply phenomenal. Why do I mention them first? They are probably the first thing you've noticed about the game. The environments are beautifully rendered, and bring the game to life. The cars also look fantastic, each with their own unique style. Plus, the explosions look pretty good as well. This game just simply looks good. Also, this game sports an excellent soundtrack. If you enjoy rock music, you will find something here you like. And if you don't like a song? Just uncheck it from the playlist, a feature sadly missing in some games (Supercar Street Challenge, just to name one).

Which leads us to the gameplay. Honestly, the gameplay is a little disappointing. It's still very good, but it could be better. The storyline, I guess you can call it that, is pretty pointless. All you do in the game is race races over and over again. Yes, that is what you do in every other racing game, but some racing games (Gran Turismo 3, just to name one) have more variety in what you are allowed to do, with buying cars and so forth. It is just too linear. Speaking of the cars, yes there are unlockable cars, but the only difference between them and other cars of the same class is looks. They have the same speed and handling. As for the types of cars you can drive, there are seven. The small ones: the motorbike, small and agile, and the ATV, bigger than the bike, but less agile, more meant for driving in the dirt. The medium ones: the buggy, a smaller, speedy car meant for off-roading; the rally cars, the fastest car in the game, but limited to smoother roads; and the racing truck, good for rough terrain, but suffers in speed. And the big ones: the mudpluggers, a mix between monster trucks and pickup trucks, best for driving in, well, mud, and the big rig, slow, bad at handling, but this doesn't matter since you can plow through your enemies. With the different types of cars, there are also different things you can do with them. For example, if you are on a bike or an ATV, you can deliver an oh-so-satisfying punch to other drivers to knock them off their bikes or ATVs. Or if you are in a big rig, simply run over your bike/ATV-riding enemies.

To go along with the theme of cars, boosting is a major part of this game. Without it, there is no way you could win most of the races. When you boost too long, a fireball not-very-realistically comes out of the back of your car as a warning, because if you boost too long, you explode. However, this can create some entertaining moments, as you can have a fireball coming out of the back of a big rig (must be intimidating for the other racers). There are some more problems with the game. Sometimes you will get randomly stuck in a corner or on a rock if you take a turn too fast, the worst part being that it is hard to get unstuck. Most of the time, I have to boost so much that I explode just to get free. This can understandably make you go from first place to last in a matter of seconds. Also, there is no splitscreen multiplayer, meaning if I want to play with my Wii-owning friend, for example, he would have to buy a PS3. And by the time this happens, a better racing game will probably be out. The reason for this is probably because it would be pointless to have the graphics as freakishly good as they are if you cannot enjoy them, but still, the feature would have been very welcome. This game does have online multiplayer, however, and the system is very good, and worth playing. Also, in the preview, I thought there would be more courses, but I was mistaken. There are only eight, and while they are all long, this is still not enough. They get old rather quickly. The best part about the courses, though: there are so many paths to take, which leads to a different strategy for the different vehicle types. Overall, this game is worth buying if you like racing games and have a PS3, and is making me very excited for the expected MotorStorm 2.

Pros: Graphics, soundtrack, running over a biker with your truck, punching an opposing racer off their bike/ATV, fun, online multiplayer.
Cons: No splitscreen multiplayer, having to explode yourself to get unstuck.

Review: Eric

Review: Gears of War (360)

2007-03-13T19:14:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 10/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 10/10
Overall- 10/10

Gears of War... more like Game of the Year. Intense, challenging, stunning- these are only a few of the words that can describe Gears of War. Get ready for one wild ride.

A game as highly anticipated as Gears of War will naturally come with plenty of skeptics. The gameplay quickly came into question when it was revealed that the game would use a "stop and pop" formula. This simply means that you go through the levels dodging bullets, jumping for cover, and then blowing away your enemies from said cover. This works out perfectly. The rush for cover as bullets, grenades, and rockets fly literally over your head is INTENSE. A single well-placed shot will kill you, and a burst of a rifle to your gut will tear you apart. Oh yeah, this game is gory. Limbs literally fly through some of the battles. Even your own. But that's where your arsenal comes in. You're a COG soldier. A monster made of muscle and armor. You're armed with rifles with chainsaw bayonets, shotguns, spiked grenades, snipers that tear through enemies, and the torque bow. The torque bow is basically a bow that revs up, sticks a guy with a metal bolt, and blows him away. The rifle is pretty good, but it's main feature is the chainsaw attachment, which, when revved up, can tear a guy in half. Although there are a few more weapons such as pistols, the arsenal is kind of small. But that doesn't make it useless, it packs quite a punch in fact. When you do shoot (which there is A LOT of), you either shoot "from the hip" which is pretty inaccurate, or you can aim more accurately over the shoulder by holding the left trigger, but this slows you down. These options make you make choices that can have heavy consequences in split seconds. The challenge in the game is near excellent, although it can feel like a bit too much in some parts. In this game, you're constantly on the edge of your seat. The gameplay is simply perfect.

The most noted thing about Gears of War are its graphics. And yes, they are some of the best available on any console. The details are superb. There is no way to really explain it except to say that the graphics are crisp, clean, and perfect. Although, sometimes the graphics are a bit blurry when you load the game, but this fixes itself within seconds and the overall quality makes up for it. The lighting is done wonderfully. The lighting does a great job of creating a deep, dark, war ravaged mood. And the design is very original. It really fits the game and makes the game very enjoyable to watch. The sound, too, is done very well. The music in the game is placed perfectly at the right moments and the sounds of screeching bullets and ear popping explosions make for a very memorable and exciting experience.

The replay value is quite good in this game as once you finish the game on hardcore difficulty, the insane difficulty opens up. Also, through the game are many spots where your team has to split up, letting you choose which path you want to go. This nice feature adds the chance to have a bit of a different experience when playing through the game more than once. Also, the multiplayer is a nice change from the regular multiplayer shooter experience with the "stop and pop" formula. The chainsaw on the Lancer rifle also opens a new way of pwnage in multiplayer games. Overall, this game is excellent. It easily takes the place as one of the best games ever and can easily take on Halo. High quality graphics and sound with some of the best and most exciting gameplay ever make one great game.

Pros: Exciting gameplay, crisp visuals, and great sound.
Cons: Nothing really.

Review: Vedran

Review: Supercar Street Challenge (PS2*)

2007-03-11T22:44:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 3/10
Sound- 1.5/10
Gameplay- 3/10
Replay Value- 2/10
Overall- 2/10

Supercar Street Challenge simply put, is a bad game. A really bad game. I mean, this game is just shameful. The graphics suck. The gameplay sucks. Everything else sucks. The one good thing about this game only applies to certain people: the game features a techno soundtrack that only major techno fans will enjoy. Just don't buy it.

Supercar Street Challenge for the PS2 has a simple premise: design a car, and then race it. Actually, that is more or less the game's slogan. Here is the game's real slogan: "Design it. Build it. Race It." Yea, that's it. It was that simple premise that made me buy the game. Oh, and the $20 price tag, without being a "Greatest Hits" title. Me in my misguided youth... I really should have known better. The thing is, the designing of the car, the game's main concept, doesn't work well, whatsoever. On the back of the box, a picture of a designed car, which, might I add, looks pretty retarded, cannot even be made at the start of the game. And even if it could, the editing system is so bad that you would lose your patience well before you finished the car. However, the single player mode isn't all that bad. Oh, wait, yes it is. The cars have amazing handling at less than 70 mph, but over that, they become incredibly hard to handle. Not that it really matters though, because if you hit a wall, unless it is a head-on collision, you only lose 40 mph, at the most. And when you are going 150 mph, that doesn't really matter. Also, the first series of races is too easy, the second series is fairly difficult, but the last series is so frickin' hard, you will wonder why you are even playing this game. Which will probably happen quite often, actually. If, no, when you get bored of the single player, you can play some two player multiplayer with your friends. It's only you two, no extra computer players. And since you both should stay above 120 mph the whole race unless you get into a really bad crash, whoever gets the better start usually wins.

As if to add insult to injury, the game looks like crap. Gran Turismo 2, for the PS1, looks better. The nine cars available are nice cars, but the game simply doesn't do them justice. Also, hopefully you have some music of your own to play, because the background music sucks, with as much emphasis on "sucks" as possible. My friend was over, and we were playing this game. Less than 30 seconds into the first race, he said, "Sounds like a night club." And it does. Except for it sounds like a really bad night club. Apparently the music is by some good techno bands. But since I've never heard such crap before, I had no idea that this was actually licensed music, not just some cheap tunes made for the game. I bought this game for $20. If you really are stupid enough to want this game, you can probably find it now in a bargain bin at your local game store. Or, you could just buy Gran Turismo 3, or just about any other racing game, for a much better gaming experience. Just say no, kids.

Pros: Bargain price, soundtrack if you are hardcore techno fan.
Cons: Everything else.

Review: Eric

*Also available for PC. Review for PS2 only

Preview: Gripshift (PS3)

2007-03-10T18:01:00.000-05:00

Gripshift, for the PS3, is an enhanced version of the game by the same title for the PSP. It is a racing/ puzzle game, with some strategy elements thrown in, too.

Not a lot of content is shown in the downloadable demo, but I'll tell you what I do know. It features a nice techno/rock soundtrack, with plenty of songs available. They fit in very well with the style of game that Gripshift is. The game also has some pretty interesting courses. Most of them are straight forward, but some of them have several different ways you can complete the objectives of that particular track. Every course has the same three objectives: get a fast time, collect all the stars, and find the Gripshift token. There is an online leader board for whoever complete the mission the fastest. If you have a competitive spirit, you will try your best to get the fastest time possible for yourself, and if you get pretty close to the top time, you may find yourself trying over and over again to get the top, or simply just a faster, time. This adds a certain level of challenge, until you realize you have stopped caring, and either give up, or keep trying anyway. None of the levels are really all that difficult, though, so after you complete it, you may have a "That was too easy" feeling.

That being said, the game gets repetitive. I am not sure how many courses there are (there were only ten in the demo), but I can't see them being very creative any more after the 50th one. Although the courses look nice (cartoony nice, not MotorStorm nice), the scenery in the ten tracks provided looks relatively the same, so if there are more than 100 levels, it will definitely get boringly repetitive. Also, like all driving games, there is some racing involved. However, I do not think this will be a big part of the game, as only one of the levels in the demo was racing. And it was really easy. So hopefully this is improved in the final version. Also, I know there will be some sort of multiplayer racing, most likely over the internet. Hopefully this will be good and actually worth playing. Overall, Gripshift is a fun game with a creative concept, but since it's very repetitive, it will be interesting to see how well the final version is done.

What's Good: Soundtrack, courses.
What Could Be Better: Racing, repetitive, difficulty.

Expected Overall- 7/10

Preview: Eric

Review: Kirby's Adventure (VC*)

2007-03-07T21:33:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 8/10
Sound- 7/10
Gameplay- 9/10
Replay Value- 8/10
Overall- 8.5/10

To this day this is still a good game a great download from the VC. The gameplay was unique at the time it came out and still is pulled off rather nicely in todays' gaming world (some unfortunately being nothing more than button-mashers).

I was very excited when I learned that this game was coming to the VC, because I knew that I had liked the game before but I just didn't remember much about it and why I liked it. When I began to play the game I soon remembered why I liked it so. The gameplay is very unique and compelling for a side-scrolling video game. You might think that Kirby is nothing special, but I disagree with you. The ability to copy certain enemies moves is so creative and adds such an addictive element to this game, it is unreal. Once you get a move you might not think about it but this requires you to think about what you are doing and going to do. What I mean is you might get an ability that you really like, but then you see an enemy with an ability that you think would be better or more useful. Do you give up your current ability? Do you keep it? Can you even take his ability? The other unique feature is Kirby's ability to "fly" (float.) This is something that is in all Kirby games and is a great concept that really wouldn't work on other games. Imagine a classic Mario game. Fun side-scrolling adventure to ensue...right? Now if he had the ability to fly...well not quite the same anymore is it? The cool thing about Kirby's flying ability is that it leads to unique level designs that require you to do more than just run forward and time your jumps. As far as designing goes, the world set-up is done very well. You have the ability to revisit old worlds which can contain that enemy that has the key to your success against that challenging boss. However "challenging" is not a word that be given the honor of being associated with Kirby's Adventure. You see... you just can't lose. Game over? Just hit continue and you are right back where you left off...except outside the level...not the world. Not only can you not die, the bosses and mini-bosses are ridiculously easy especially when you have a power-up you "borrowed" from and enemy. A good gamer...hell, a below average gamer can knock this game out in no time.

The graphics in this game appear to be very well done - there are multiple colors and patterns in each world and level within. However it is a bit hard for me to judge the graphics because I do not know what other games at the time looked like. The sound isn't the greatest, but then again none of the games at the time where phenomenal. There seems to be nothing but positives (almost) right? Well...let's get back to my first time playing. I entered a room and glanced up and saw a lot of enemies (five or six.) My first thought was...hey this might give me a slight challenge (it didn't.) I then started to inhale to suck up an enemy with a move I deeply desired, but as soon as I started to inhale...no, it can't be was that...LAG?!?! Are you kidding me?!?!? A NES game lagging on a Wii?!?!? I know that Nintendo isn't going to mess with games and release them in there original state...but I think that they could have made an exception for this (and a controller pack for Mario Kart 64.) The slowdown fiasco only gets worse as the game goes on because it increases in "difficulty," which means more foes. However this is the game I have played the most on my VC...well maybe Mario Kart 64 (yes I do own the cartridge and the VC version.) This is still a good game and worth 500 Wii points ($5.)

Pros: Unique, Copy enemies moves, "Flying," Game design.
Cons: LAG!, Way too easy.
Should it be downloaded? - Yes

Review: Dan

*Original version on NES - Review based on VC version only.

Review: Samurai Warriors (PS2*)

2007-03-03T16:49:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 5/10
Sound- 5/10
Gameplay- 6/10
Replay Value- 6/10
Overall- 5.5/10

Samurai Warriors from Koei is pretty much the same game as Dynasty Warriors, just set in Japan, not China. So if you've played any of the 5,000 Dynasty Warriors before, you know what you're getting. If you liked those games, or if you like other pointless button-mashers, you'll probably like this one too. If you didn't, then stop reading this review, because nothing will convince you to buy this game.

Samurai Warriors is set in ancient Japan. And while I'm pretty sure this game might have some historical accuracy, I can't really tell. But it doesn't really matter, because the stories suck. Each playable character has a separate story, although since almost all of the stories overlap, a lot of similar elements are used throughout. There are a good deal of playable characters, but it's rather pointless to play them all, since you just unlock new characters with the same story you have already heard. Also, you can create your own character if you like, and while the character creation mode is pretty good, I don't really see the point for the same reason mentioned above. But if you get bored, which you will, you might want to give it a shot.

And to make it worse, this game is a pure button-masher. You can upgrade your character to give them new moves, but it doesn't really matter, since you just press the same button or two over and over again. There are two attack buttons, Square and Triangle. Square is your basic attack (the only button you'll ever need) and Triangle is a stronger attack. However, all you need to do is press the Square button 100 times, anytime you are near a group of enemies, and you will get the job done. Speaking of the enemies, they all look the same. There are maybe five different types of enemies, but most of the time you will only see a group of 20 of the same type of enemies. And if there happens to be more than 30 enemies and/or allies (which also look the same) on the screen at once, the game will start to lag. Because of this, you can usually only see enemies that are 20 ft. in front of you or closer. But it doesn't matter, because the AI sucks too much to attack you anyway. You can run straight passed a group of enemies, and they will just stare at you. To prove my point, I took the character with the worst defense at level 1, and just stood in a group of enemies. Even with two officers, it took me 2 min. to die. That is way too ridiculously long, even for a game of this low caliber.

Because of your near-inability to die, most of the time you lose a mission, it's not because you died, but because of the next point. The game will give you objectives based either on a timer, or on your progress. You will sometimes think you are going the right way, and then will get an objective telling you to go to the opposite side to the map, and since the characters move incredibly slow without, and most of the time even with, the use of a horse, you will not reach where you are supposed to go in time.

Every once in a while, there will be an "officer" (very slightly stronger enemy with more health) who comes along. After you defeat them, you see a cut scene to break up the monotony. However, the voice acting is so bad, and because you most likely won't care about what the officer has to say, you will skip it. Speaking of the cut scenes, you know how, in most games, the cut scenes look better than normal gameplay? But do they in Samurai Warriors? No. They look just as bad as the rest of the game does, and most of the time, the very repetitive animations during gameplay are actually better than those in the cut scenes. The only reason I bought this game was because I played a little of Dynasty Warriors at a friend's house, and the game seemed fun. It was for a little while, but soon enough I began to see this game for what it really is: the same garbage featured in every other Dynasty Warrior game, and a poor excuse to make money.

Pros: A lot of playable characters, character creation mode, ability to skip cut scenes, same as Dynasty Warriors.
Cons: Button-masher, stories in story mode suck, voice acting, animations, graphics, lagging, AI, same as Dynasty Warriors.

Review: Eric

*Also available for Xbox. Review for PS2 only

Editorial: The Xbox 360 is More Than Halo 3's Bitch

2007-03-02T18:34:00.000-05:00

People keep saying that all the Xbox 360 has is Halo. Why? They can't think of a better way to call a wonderful console bad. They say the 360 has worse graphics than the Playstation 3 because it doesn't have the HDMI output. Look at Gears of War, the best graphics ever besides Killzone 2 which were PRERENDERED. If a game's visuals in-game can match the prerendered graphics of Killzone 2, then it's obvious who owns in terms of graphics. By the way, Gears of War is also an amazing game. Halo 3 and Gears of War, two of the biggest games ever- found only on the 360. People freely bash Xbox Live. Why? Because of a $50 A YEAR subscription price... 50 bucks a year is not a lot when you look at the services and quality offered by Live. Now lets look to future games- Metal Gear Solid 4, Devil May Cry 4, Final Fantasy XIII- these are all pretty big threats to the future of the 360, but people have to actually look at what the 360 is packin' before they say the battle is lost. Besides some very high-quality games already out, the 360 has a line up of Halo 3, Fable 2, Mass Effect, BioShock, Blue Dragon. These are all exclusive games coming out within a year to year and a half and all of them have some pretty big names behind them known for their high quality of games.

But you know what? I'm tired of comparing the 360 to the Playstation 3. The 360 won 2006. Better graphics, better games, better online. The fact is, the 360 is a great console. Whether you compare it or not. Has the console had some bumps in the road? Yes, but it still managed to get the first year done not just right, but great. Look at its power and price, it's a perfect balance between the two. It already has a developed online system, has great games out, and has plenty of great and promising games coming. Sure, not all Xbox games are backwards compatible on the 360(for now), but those that are work just fine.

But we can't focus on its backwards compatibility. The quality of the console is what matters, besides games that is. And the quality is superb. A fully developed online set up that is unlike anything consoles have seen before. The power to deliver graphics such as those in Gears of War(which are considered the best to date) without killing your budget. As well, the system can be personalized in numerous ways for that extra touch, and truly becomes a gamers console. The console itself is the best looking out there in my opinion. Of course, equally important are the games available on the console. Call of Duty 2, Call of Duty 3, Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter, The Elder Scrolls 4, Lost Planet, FarCry, Hitman: Blood Money, Enchanted Arms, FEAR, Rainbow Six Vegas, Splinter Cell: Double Agent, Gears of War- these are just a few of the good games already out on the 360. They may not all be exclusive nor the best of the best(while there are some that truly are) but these are all great games out now and there is something for everyone. And by playing those multi-platform games on the 360, not only do you get access to some amazing exclusives, you don't have to spend more than half a grand on the console nor do you get sub par graphics. Also, besides the exclusive games already mentioned that are still in development, multi-platform games including Resident Evil 5 and Grand Theft Auto IV are coming to the 360. This is a pretty killer line up.

Sure the 360 has had a bit of rough start, but it still proved itself against the bashings of Wii fans and PS3 owners. Was it a complete failure, did it have only terrible games all year round, did it not deliver on what it promised? No. Is there more than Halo 3 on the 360? Yes. Just like there is more than just Metal Gear Solid 4 on the Playstation 3 and Legend of Zelda on the Wii. The Xbox 360 has an amazing arsenal of games and plenty of ammo left, along with some very high quality services and features and some of the juiciest graphics out there.

Editorial: The PS3 is More Than a $600 Grill

2007-03-01T19:56:00.000-05:00

I'm sure you all have heard people comparing the PS3 to a grill, due to its likeness in shape to the George Foreman grill, similar to the photo on the right. And while this picture is obviously fake, some people did actually convert their PS3 into a grill. While I cannot think of a bigger waste of money... maybe the Zune... I must admit there are many similarities between the grill and the PS3's shape. That being said, that is where the similarities end. Well, maybe not...

The PS3 is a gaming powerhouse. The George Foreman grill is a grilling powerhouse. Ken Kutaragi is risking his good name on the system. George Foreman is risking his good name on the grill. And with the amount of heat the PS3 generates, it probably could cook a steak in about 10 minutes (unlike the Xbox 360, however, it doesn't overheat). But that's not the point. The point is that the PS3 is not a joke. Just about everybody who isn't planning on buying one thinks this, and even some of the people who have bought it think this. Sony knows what they are doing. Look at the original Playstation and the Playstation 2, and look at their other electronics. Sony brand stuff is the usually some of the highest quality stuff on the market. (And actually, Betamax was the better quality format, but lost anyway.)

I will agree with some people though, Sony may have been a little overconfident in their ability to sell the PS3 based on the fact that its got the Playstation name. Also, Sony may be in some trouble in the game department, as they have lost a lot of once-exclusive titles. However, if Motorstorm, Warhawk, Lair, and Metal Gear Solid 4 are as good as their supposed to be (a big "if", and if Killzone looks just about as good as it did at E3 2005 (monstrously immense "if"), then I think the PS3 has a major shot at winning the console war. And I will go on record saying this: if MGS4 isn't an exclusive, Sony lost. And although they have lost some exclusives, they still have Heavenly Sword, Devil May Cry 4, Final Fantasy XIII, Gran Turismo 5, and I can't forget Ratchet and Clank 5. But if that's not good enough for you, don't forget about all the exclusive games that were on the PS2, seeing as the PS3 is almost fully backwards compatible, something that cannot and will never be said by the Xbox 360.

One thing I must say, Xbox fanboys: stop comparing Gears of War to Resistance: Fall of Man. Yes, Gears of War is the better game. However, you simply cannot, or rather, should not, since people obviously unfairly can and have, compare a game that came out one year after the console launch with a launch title. That's like comparing Metal Gear Solid 4 to Perfect Dark Zero (actually, Resistance itself is better than Perfect Dark Zero), or comparing MotorStorm, or maybe Gran Turismo 5, to Project Gotham Racing 3. Not very fair now, is it? However, because Resistance was compared to Gears of War, it made Resistance look bad.

Also, you may or may not have heard stories about some stores having a plentiful supply of PS3's for while. Most commonfolk would interpret this as the PS3 selling poorly. However, this is not the case. The real reason is that since Sony didn't want there to be a shortage of systems available, they were flying them over, rather than shipping them by boat, to shorten the time of delivery. And since most stores are getting shipments every week, and sometimes more often than that, people are seeing lots of PS3's on store shelves. And the PS3's launch wasn't bad, it's just that the Wii's launch was better, and less violent. It's actually quite the contrary, since the PS3's launch was the best launch of a system Sony has ever had.

A point I have seen made about the PS3 is its online and how bad it is. First of all, I don't really know where this comes from. Yes it could be better, but it's definitely not bad, and is a hell of a lot better than the PS2's online service, which was pretty much none (sure it had online games, but other than that...). Second, I will agree that it should be better. I mean, look at how far Nintendo has come in its online offerings, only two or three games had online and I doubt any of those were really worth playing. My point is though, the PS3's online service isn't bad. Yes, Xbox Live is better. Yes, there is room for improvement. The best part of it is, though, that its free. I paid $600 for the system (actually about $650 with tax), so I would expect some added benefits. And since its free, I can understand how it's not as good as Xbox Live, which, if you didn't already know, costs $50 a year.

Another thing I have against the public's view of the PS3: its price. Stop complaining about its price if you weren't going to buy it in the first place. It's like if I was buying a Toyota because I needed a car, never considered buying a Ferrari, but complained about its price anyway. I don't and shouldn't really care about the price of a Ferrari because I know I'm not going to buy it. Same thing if you are buying a Wii because of the games, so you never considered buying the PS3; don't complain about its price because it doesn't affect you. On the other hand, if you were thinking about buying a PS3, but the price turned you away, then you can complain about it. Dan's right, the PS3 is for hardcore gamers, and hardcore gamers will be willing to pay the $600 for the console, and might end up buying all three next-gen systems. (Unless, of course, they're cheap bastards, then they'll just buy the Wii.) And if you are getting a console, no matter which one, as a gift or by some other means without actually paying for it, you have no right to complain, you lucky bastard. And a major (or minor, depending on the person) selling point was the fact that the PS3 is a cheap Blu-Ray player, but since this doesn't have to do with games, I don't feel like arguing about right now.

So as you can see, the PS3 is more than a $600 grill. It's a $600 grill that can play games and movies. What more could you want?

Editorial by: Eric

Editorial: The Wii is More Than a Hula Hoop

2007-03-01T19:55:00.000-05:00

I have read a few articles recently that have stated that the Wii is nothing more than this generation's Hula Hoop. While I guess I know what they are saying, I obviously disagree with them.

One of the main reasons I disagree with them is the Nintendo DS. Back when this portable system was launched, it was scoffed at and only bought by extremely hardcore Nintendo fan boys and by parents who didn't understand or were just to cheap to by the PSP, which at the time was the front runner. Message boards all over criticized Nintendo for it's approach to their next portable system and claimed that the touch screen was nothing more than a gimmick. Sound eerily familiar? When the DS was launched there was a huge sales surge and while it was popular for a while it soon died down and it seemed that Sony was poised to take over the portable market just like they took over the console market. Fast-forward to now and look at the sales of the DS verses the sales of the PSP. The PSP has 24.70 million units shipped worldwide as of December 31, 2006. The DS has 35.61 million worldwide as of December 31, 2006. That's over 10 million more. The DS has seen this recent surge largely due to the surge of good games; games that actual used the touch screen well after initial complaints that some games used it horribly. I must say the DS looks like a good purchase to me right now. What does the PSP have?... GTA's? PS2 ports? There isn't much right now. In short PSP = PS3, and DS = Wii.

Before the Wii was launched, it didn't garner much respect from the gaming community, and I will admit to originally being on the PS3's bandwagon. Then more details where revealed about the Wii and it's games, soon followed by the details of the PS3's availability which lead me to the glorious conclusion of getting the Wii. I got up early on launch day and went to the local Best Buy and managed to get a Wii pretty easily, which I had expected. I got Wii 67 out of 102 possible Wii's; the last ticket given to a buyer was given to a guy who walked up at 8:45... the store opened at 9:00. As the days went by after launch day, I began to see reviews of the system online and the games and the articles raving about it and the articles bashing the PS3. I soon realized how lucky I was to have gone out and gotten one right away. However the thing was it was not that hard to get one. Most of my friends who went out to get one on launch day did in fact get one. Compare that to the PS3's launch where you had to camp out for ridiculous amounts of time to get one for sure. Now the tide has turned, I have had five different opportunities to purchase a PS3. I have passed all of them up and surprisingly money was actually not a factor, I could have scraped the money together (600 dollars is still way to much.) I was expecting to be able to walk into store now and see the shelves lined with Wiis, which is simply not the case.

Many people will also claim that the Wii is like the Gamecube (the most portable console ever) because of the lack of third party support. While many third party companies were with the PS3/360 at the beginning, the strong launch of the Wii seems to have convinced them otherwise. Furthermore "Third party developers didn't receive proper Wii development kits too long before the consoles release. With the average game taking well over a year to make these days, we should see an influx of third-party releases -- developed specifically on Wii kits (not GameCube placeholders) -- rushing to Wii later this year and in 2008.*" The main reason that companies didn't believe in the Wii was because of the failure of the Gamecube. The Cube had no third party support and it's first party was very weak. Wind Waker was a miss for many fans as was Super Mario Sunshine - they where both good games but they definitely did not reach the high standards that where set by previous installments. Now look at all the reviews for Twilight Princess and the initial reception of Super Mario Galaxy.

Another thing that is forgotten when people consider what console to purchase is the Wii's Virtual console. If the future Wii games are lacking people will always be able to download old classics that where not lacking from the NES, SNES, N64, Genesis, and TurboGrafx- 16. On top of that the Neo Geo and MSX have games available for download in Japan and they have been first to get everything meaning America should soon follow. Not only will you be able to download old games but some companies have hinted that they will release brand new games exclusively on the VC.

The Wii is more than a 250 dollar hula hoop. The Wii is definitely here to stay and I predict it to win this generation's console war. We have seen Nintendo take this approach before and succeed; they do know what they are doing. The Xbox 360 will stay on top for a while because of the massive head start they got, but the Wii appeals to all gamers and will have games for gamers of all ages. The PS3 is for hardcore gamers and the 360 is for cheap hardcore gamers while the Wii is cheap and for everyone.

*http://blogs.guardian.co.uk/technology/archives/2007/02/19/
is_the_wii_another_hula_hoop.html

Editorial By: Dan

Review: Resident Evil 4 (Gamecube*)

2007-02-26T16:50:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9.5/10
Sound-9.5/10
Gameplay-10/10
Replay Value- 9/10
Overall- 9.5/10

There are many who have left the Resident Evil series due to recent sub-par games. Not much faith was put in this game before it's release, yet people make mistakes. This game has not just surpassed people's expectations, but completely blown them away.

I remember not having much interest in this game. It seemed like nothing compared to what was out at the time, yet I reluctantly picked up the game. Before I start the actual review, I will tell you that this is one of the best games ever to come out.

The actual look of the game is great. Lots of deep color and great details surround you, emphasizing an edgy and exciting mood. The graphics, although not perfect, do a wonderful job of pleasing the gamers eyes. The sound, also adding to the edgy mood, is quite nice. Good, although not very memorable, music plays throughout the game. Also, creaky floors and ghostly sounds remind you that you're not alone. Now the gameplay comes in turn. And this is what the game truly perfects. A combination of adventure and over-the-shoulder shooting makes the gameplay addictive, fun, and very refreshing. Through the levels of villages, old castles, dungeons, and laboratories, you move around with your gun in hand, searching for items and clues and solving some interesting puzzles. Your character moves very smoothly and the camera moves with you and is very easy to use. The actual fighting, which there is plenty of, is amazingly intense. When you shoot, you hold the R trigger to aim, at this point the camera moves in close, over your shoulder, and you aim using the analog stick and shoot by pressing the A button. While aiming you can't move. This worried me at first, but it actually makes the game much more interesting, making you choose when to fight and when to retreat. Along with your knife, you'll get the chance to acquire a lot of interesting and very fun weapons. These include hand guns and revolvers to rifles and rocket launchers. You can purchase these weapons, ammo, items, and weapon attachments from dealers. The attachments are very fun to use and make the weapons much more fun and useful. You find things such as bigger ammo mags and scopes. After certain achievements and finishing the game you'll unlock certain items and weapons. These add ons and the game itself will keep you coming back for more. All in all, this is an amazing game. Buy it, play it, have fun.

Pros: Great gameplay, deep weapon customization. Very fun and a good length with a nice challenge.
Cons: Music could have been better.

Review: Vedran

*Also released for Playstation 2 - Review for Gamecube only.

Review: Mario Kart Super Circuit (GBA)

2007-02-25T19:07:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 8/10
Sound- 7.5/10
Gameplay- 7/10
Replay Value- 8/10
Overall- 8/10

One of the first games released for the GBA and still one of the best available. This game is a great addition to the Mario Kart series, and while it has some great parts too, the difficulty level in this game is way too hard, especially as you increase CC's.

This is the first of three games I got for the GBA, (three because I was never really all that impressed with the GBA) and this really spoiled me, it set a standard for GBA game that was only achieved on a very low amount of games. When I started to play this game I was really impressed. The game seemed to capture what the Mario Kart series had been all about up to that point. The game appeared to provide a nice challenge with some really close races that had you jumping out of your seat. I played this game so much when I first got it, but then I finally started to move up in race difficulty and it felt like I hit a brick wall. The game got so ridiculously hard from that point on. I just could not move on to the next races, I would use my three retrys almost right away and it really made me angry... angry to the point that I gave up. I distinctively remember going back to the game a few years later figuring it would be easy because I had grown older and better. I was wrong - I still had trouble with lots of the levels. I might not of cared as much but the thing with this game was that it introduced the retry limit. In other words after you don't place you can only retry a maximum of three times. This would have been much better in Mario Kart 64, but in this game you need an unlimited amount like Mario Kart 64, whereas in Mario Kart 64 a limit should have been enforced.

The game includes - as usual - three modes, Time Trial, Single Race, and Grand Prix. Time Trial and Single Race are fine and dandy but the main point of the game is the Grand Prix. You start off with four different sets of tracks with four courses in each, giving you a total of 16 tracks to choose from and special cup which is unlocked. Some of tracks you may recognize from the previous two games in the Mario Kart series, while some are brand new and they are as well laid out as you would expect. As far as similarities with the other two games in the series, this game brings back the usage of coins that was present in the original SNES version but was unfortunately missing in the N64 version. Picking up coins will increase your top speed in the game; a nice touch but if you have trouble picking them up good luck on the more difficult races. The other similarity is that all of the items that appear in the original (minus the feather) are used in this game, and like before the items add a great touch and really do make the game/series what it is. One of the best features of the game is the graphics. While the characters aren't the greatest and the tracks can be rough at points, they are done really nicely for a portable system; the best graphics however are by far the background graphics, they are fantastic for a GBA game. Another good feature is the sound, more specically the sound effects. The characters "voices" are timed well and sound good as does the engine sound - but unfortunately the music isn't the greatest, the quality is really poor at points and can be distracting.

As far as characters go - they are the classic Nintendo characters you have grown to know and love over the years. Speaking of classic, the cups and tracks from the original are available as extra cups, through getting them is a chore. To unlock these cups, first the Special Cup must be unlocked, and then a gold trophy must be won in that cup. Then you must race in each cup again, winning a gold trophy and collecting 100 coins or more. The appropriate SNES courses are finally then unlocked and while this will keep you coming back, it is really hard. In the end this is a great game for a GBA but it is a little lacking. The game still manages to maintain most of the feel of the series and should be purchased.

Pros: Some graphics, Sound effects, Items, Coins, Characters.
Cons: Difficulty level increases, Retry system, Music.

Review: Dan

Review: Ratchet and Clank 2: Going Commando (PS2)

2007-02-23T17:30:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9.5/10
Sound- 9.5/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 9/10
Overall- 9.5/10

Ratchet and Clank are back. The folks over at Insomniac improved the gameplay mechanics, upgraded the graphics, and fixed the glitches from the previous game. With more to do, more weapons and gadgets, and simply more fun, this game should be owned by every PS2 owner.

The best word to describe why this game is better than the first: more. There are more weapons, more bolts, more levels, more destructible environments, more continue points (check points), more health... well, you get the picture. There is improved versions of things from the first game, like hoverbike races and the ability to control Clank. In the first game, there were hoverboard races, but there were only two of them, and there weren't any cash rewards for winning. Also, you could control Clank in the first game, but he wasn't as big of a part of the game the first time around. Also, the wrench combat has improved, and you get better wrenches throughout the game. Like I mentioned before, there are more bolts in the game. The hoverbike races provide a good way to earn cash, and the enemies drop more bolts. In the first game, levels usually warranted about 5000 bolts each. However, in Going Commando, levels can easily dish out 20,000 bolts, and, because I died a couple of times, I once got about 40,000 bolts, even after I had paid for all of the ammo I wasted. The biggest improvement, however, in my opinion, is the upgradeable weapons. The player is able to upgrade the weapons once during their first run-through, but not by purchasing better versions, like in the first game. They are upgraded by the usage, but the second time you play through, you can buy a better version (it costs a LOT of bolts, but you can get them fairly easily if you're good).

Gameplay wasn't the only thing that is better in this game, however. The graphics are improved, but the graphics in the first game were good already, so the difference may be hard to notice. Also, Going Commando features one of the best soundtracks in the series. The music completes the game, and sets the mood for the situation. However, the game isn't all good. First of all, the cleverly named RYNO II makes the game too easy. Even though the RYNO II is hard to get (unless you are in challenge mode), it takes out just about every non-boss character in the game in one hit. That isn't my biggest complaint about the RYNO II, though. The final boss is a challenge without the RYNO II. With the RYNO II, however, it takes literally only 20 hits to take it out. So with its high rate of fire, that takes about three seconds. No matter what the game is, the final boss battle should not take three seconds. Also, there are some times when the scenery gets in the way of the camera, making it act a little weird. And even though the single player is really good, I think some multiplayer would have been good, and would have helped the game. Despite those complaints, many people call this the best game in the series (I like #3 more because of online), and it is clear why. This game just has more of everything, and with the addition of multiplayer would have been just about perfect.

Pros: Better than the original in every way.
Cons: No multiplayer, RYNO II makes game too easy, camera can be a little screwy.

Review: Eric

Review: San Francisco Rush: Extreme Racing (N64*)

2007-02-20T19:46:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9/10
Sound- 2/10
Gameplay- 7.5/10
Replay Value- 7/10
Overall- 7/10

A good racing game with nicely done graphics. This will not be your first choice if you want to race your friends, but it should be considered. You should mute your television though.

When I got this game I was at an age where this game was amazing to me. I felt so cool driving a car so life-like, and, while they are pretty well done, the game is nothing special. It is a straight forward racing game with its big selling point being the graphics. The effort that went into recreating the streets of San Francisco is amazing and, as a result, the finished product looks really good. You can tell this because you are driving all over San Fransisco on any given track - in other words, there are a lot of shortcuts. When I say a lot I mean a lot, sometimes I have trouble remembering the way that you are supposed to go on the track. The high amount of shortcuts will lead you to play the course again because you think that if you take "shortcut B" verses "shortcut A" you can shave off a significant amount of time. Enough about the shortcuts, back to the graphics - the worst part of them is the collision damage. The crash damage is the same for every hit you get, and while I understand that it might have been hard to do incredibly realistic crash damage on a N64 it could have been way better and realistic. Along the lines of realism there is one thing in this game that isn't - the gravity... and that's fine by me. The air you can get in this game is unreal at points.

The problem with this game is how predictable it is. San Francisco Rush: Extreme Racing does nothing new and does not appear to try to do anything new. You will probably find this game fun for a while but after you get good at it - well, the game will just go downhill from there. You may be thinking "What about multiplayer?" Sure, multiplayer is fun but if you are playing someone who hasn't played that many times, the race is no fun. You will end up absolutely owning your inexperienced friends because you have the shortcut knowledge that they so desperately need. The other negative feature of this game is the key collecting. It was kind of fun for a little while but the novelty soon wore off and I gave up on it. Do not get me wrong, you may love this feature, but I found it to be nothing more than an attempt to bulk up the game - and if you don't have a controller pack that's too bad because key collecting is truly pointless. However, the far and away worst feature is the sound, more specifically the music. It is absolutely shameful - mute your television except to hear the announcer say "It's Dangerous!!!" when you scroll over the harder to drive cars. In the end this would be a great bargain bin purchase. It will provide you with a few days of entertainment and not much more... except for the few times you friends will play multiplayer with you and unless they like to lose, they won't be playing it with you a lot.

Pros: "It's Dangerous!!", Graphics, Shortcuts, Exaggerated gravity.
Cons: Music, Collision damage graphics, Predictable.

Review: Dan

*Also released for Playstation - Review for N64 only.

Review: Everybody Votes Channel (Wii)

2007-02-19T17:31:00.000-05:00

Overall- 6.5/10

A surprise addition to the Wii and while the Everybody Votes Channel boasts nothing special, it is a nice glance into future possibilities for Wii Channels.

A few days ago I was surprised by my glowing blue light on the Wii. If you don't already know this, that light alerts you to new received messages. My first thought was that it was just Nintendo sending me more crap about the whole wrist strap fiasco (which by the way, those are hilarious.) While I did get a letter about that I also got one from Nintendo saying that the "Everybody Votes Channel" was now available for download and it's free. After updating I downloaded it and started out. However, before I started I was under the impression that you the polls were based on Nintendo games or Wii games or just the Wii in general. I was very disappointed to find out that there no questions of that nature at all. Unfortunately all that was there were ditsy questions such as: "Do you prefer Cats or Dogs?" God, I don't think I could care any less. The other problem is your answer options: there are only two. While that may be fine for simple Cat or Dog style questions there will be lots of questions were the answer that represents you is simply not present (recent indications point to this changing). To add to that, many people criticize the number of polls that there are to vote in. While that is true, it will change over time and there will be plenty of polls to get involved in.

With those negatives being said, it is still a good time-waster much like the Forecast Channel and there are many positive features about it. You use your Mii to represent yourself when you vote and they are also you to represent ratios of the polls final outcome, which is something that you can become very interested in because you are given the option of predicting the outcome the polls and some are pretty challenging. You are given a percentage total based on your predictions and this will tell you how "in tune" you are. There is also a way to see how much your opinions differ from the norm which will give you the chance to make fun of all of your weirdo friends. Overall the Everybody Votes Channel is a fine time-waster, but doesn't really add a lasting effect to the Wii. I just cannot imagine anyone reading this and thinking, "Well, I must get a Wii now!" This does make me optimistic that Nintendo has plenty of tricks up their sleeves, channel-wise, and the more the better. You might as well download this, because its free.

Pros: Poll predictions, Mii, Shows future possibilities.
Cons: Poll questions are childish, Two answer options as of now.

Review: Dan

Review: Ratchet and Clank (PS2)

2007-02-12T21:00:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9/10
Sound- 9/10
Gameplay- 9/10
Replay Value- 8/10
Overall- 9/10

Just like Crash Bandicoot became the mascot for the PS1, Ratchet and Clank, along with Jak and Daxter and Sly Cooper, became the mascots for the PS2. With a funny story line, unique weapons, and excellent gameplay, Ratchet and Clank was a very solid title for the PS2. Too bad it didn't have any multiplayer...

Ratchet and Clank is a very fun game, and an excellent start to the series. The story line is pretty creative, with plenty of twists and turns along the way to keep you interested. Plus, it features something not too common: good voice acting. This really helps keep you involved in the story. Also, there is plenty of sarcastic humor spread throughout, keeping you entertained if you don't care about the story, since the cut scenes cannot be skipped. The game also gave Insomniac its reputation for unique weapons, like the Morph-o-ray, which transforms your enemies into chickens. These themes are brought back in the game's sequels.

However, something the sequels have that this game doesn't: multiplayer. This brings down the replay value, but since there is a lot to do in single player after beating the game for the first time, the category still gets a high score. Some of those things includes getting gold bolts, for buying gold weapons (upgraded versions), and getting skill points by completing unusual tasks. Another complaint is that it is rather difficult to earn bolts (the game's currency). You get the bolts by killing enemies and breaking open boxes. This isn't that much of a nuisance until you try to get the R.Y.N.O., the best weapon in the game. It costs 150,000 bolts, while the next expensive is 40,000, and isn't nearly as powerful. The R.Y.N.O. isn't a must-have weapon to beat the game, but it sure makes it a hell of a lot easier. And since you get an average of about 5,000 bolts each level, if traverse the entire level, it takes a long while to get that R.Y.N.O. While this does add another degree of challenge, it seems unnecessary to make it that hard.

The graphics in this game are very good. The cartoonish style fits the atmosphere perfectly. The environments are nice and big, and, although rather linear, leave a lot to be explored, as usually the gold bolts are hidden somewhere, sometimes obvious, sometimes not. There are some minor issues, such as clipping, and one time I shot an enemy halfway into a wall and it just strangely disappeared. The sound is also done well, from the previously-mentioned voice acting to the well-composed background music. I would say that this game is a must own, but frankly, the sequels are better, so, unless you care about the story leading up into those games, just buy them.

Pros: Humor, background music, creative weapons, good story line, good voice acting, challenging.
Cons: Minor graphical glitches, no multiplayer, takes too long to get money.

Review: Eric

Review: Beetle Adventure Racing! (N64)

2007-02-09T12:31:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 10/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay 9/10
Replay Value- 4/10
Overall-8.5/10

This game features the best graphics that were achieved on the N64 (in my opinion). Pair that with the incredibly realistic style of racing along with some nicely laid out courses and you get a good game. It could have been a great game if multiplayer battle wasn't so bad.

It's a shame this game was released towards the end of the N64's run because it went largely unnoticed. To me this game should have created a pretty big buzz because of how good the graphics were, I mean some games on the Gamecube look worse than Beetle Adventure Racing!, especially at the start of the Cube. As soon as the first race starts I'm sure you'll understand what I'm talking about. The cars look fantastic and the courses are nicely done as well (come on, a T. Rex snapping his jaws at while you fly past him?!?!). Speaking of the courses, they are fantasticly designed ones, although there are only six of them. The lack of courses is a negative for sure, but the six that are available are so expertly layed out and visually stunning that I doubt you will care - not for a long while, at least. Along with the courses being layed out so well come the shortcuts, and let me tell you there are plenty in the game. In fact there are so much it won't be a matter of taking them, it turns into a matter of which ones to take, which can take up a lot of your time right there (not in a bad way.) Most of the shortcuts themselves are really cool, from smashing through a casino and a hotel to navagating your way through crystal caves, all of shortcuts add a great element to each course and the game overall.

The biggest problem in this game isn't the lack of courses, it's the multiplayer battle. The courses are way too big. You spend more time looking at the radar than at the actual battle. The courses are so poorly designed you'll soon be asking for the good compact courses of Mario Kart 64. The other problem with multiplayer is when you actual want to race someone you don't have the option of racing against computers. On that line the replay value is very very low - after you have beaten the main courses... well, that's it. Those are the only major problems, but to me, this game was a great step forward and nothing more. There were some great concepts in this game. There was the bonus point; throughout the level and it's shortcuts there are boxes that if you smash through will give you bonus points, enough of these and you get a continue. The other unique feature was the engine sound, every car had it's own unique engine sound which is a great idea because after awhile you get bored of hearing the same engine for what seems like ever. Going with the sound, the music is also really good, as is the stereotypical seventies announcer. In the end it's a great single player game for a long time but multiplayer will bore you rather quickly.

Pros: Graphics, Unique engine sounds, Shortcuts, Bonus points system.
Cons: Multiplayer, Lack of replay value.

Review: Dan

Review: Banjo-Kazooie (N64)

2007-02-08T20:58:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 10/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay 9/10
Replay Value- 7/10
Overall-9/10

A great game for the N64, that while seems to appeal to little kids, should not be overlooked by older gamers. Some have compared this game to Super Mario 64, and while similar it adds its own unique features, and it is really well done.

Many people say that this is Super Mario 64 only with minor changes. While the two are very similar they are not the same game. Super Mario 64 redefined gaming as we know it and Banjo-Kazooie simply did not. However don't misinterpret that to mean it's a bad game, it's still a great game. This game adds many of its own features and of course bumps up the graphics, which by the way are stunning. The graphical style is similar to Super Mario 64 in the cartoonish sense, but you can just see the improvements. Not only are graphics bumped up but the environment it decidedly bigger, almost rivaling Ocarina of Time, it's huge and well laid out. The general idea of this game also appears to be borrowed from Mario 64, you have go through levels and collect jigsaw pieces... stars anybody? There are, however, new things that you have to collect in order to proceed in the game. There are musical notes which open up new sections of the game which is where you use jigsaw pieces to open up new worlds (it makes sense when you play it.) With new a collecting style, unfortunately comes a problem - there is too much to collect. There are Mumbo's Tokens, Jinjos, Eggs, Red Feathers, Gold Feathers, Extra Lives, and Honeycomb Energy. All that in addition to the required notes and puzzle pieces, this can lead to pre-stage planning, which can sometimes restrict you from exploring.

The only other problem with this game is its difficulty. The first two or three levels are a snap, but from there the difficulty races skyward at an ungodly pace. While some elements remain easy, some of the things required for jigges (jigsaw pieces) are really hard, especially collecting all the notes in each world. However you might not mind because of the discovery aspect. At first some of the stages may appear simply mapped and straight forward, you will soon discover many unfound gems that will keep you coming back. That being said, the last level is an amazing concept, well laid out, and brilliantly done. Part of the reason that it's done so well is your transformation in that stage. You see, the reason you collect Mumbo's Tokens is because good old Mumbo himself will transform you into various animals in certain stages; these include termite, crocodile, walrus, a pumpkin, (the exception to the animal thing) and a bee. That isn't the best feature of the game however. Some might argue that it's the graphics, but I say the sound by a mile. While there is no voice acting, none is needed - the music speaks for itself. This music sets the tone so well, it could be compared to Ocarina of Time. I could try and describe but I would deem it indescribable and not only is the music good, the sound effects are on the same remarkable level. Bottom line: buy this game... it's a shame it won't be on the VC.

Pros: Sound, Graphics, Gameplay, Mapping, Transformations.

Cons: Difficulty level rises too quickly, lots of collecting.

Review: Dan

Review: WarioWare: Smooth Moves (Wii)

2007-02-07T20:30:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 8/10
Sound- 6/10
Gameplay 9/10
Replay Value- 6/10
Overall-7/10

A good use of the Wiimote, but unfortunately it might be to hard for some. The game also moves really quickly, maybe too quickly. The lack of multiplayer is killer.

I was very excited about this game when I bought it, however I noticed almost right away there was no multiplayer, which I strongly expected there to be. I was discouraged, but still decided to purchase it anyways. One of the first things that I noticed was that this game incorporates your Mii's into it, which as you know I really like. The other thing I noticed was that you have the choice of right-handed or left-handed, which I do expect to see a lot in future Wii games. As I got to the actual gameplay I realized the graphics were... unique, I guess that they could be described as trippy. While the graphics won't win any awards, they are what you expect from this game. When you are starting a challenge there is a command thrown up on the screen and you are expected to know what to do. While it was fine most of the time, sometimes I had no idea what to do, because I looked away or didn't understand. If I didn't understand some of the commands, I imagine a lot of other people will too. However, the thing that bothered me the most was the stupid story line. Half the time I have no idea what the hell is going on and the other half makes absolutely no sense.

With all that being said this is still a good game. Many of the challenges make good use of the Wiimote and are really fun and you will want to play again. There is also a option to play some mini-games, not the game's mini-games, a new set of mini-games (confused?). On top of that if you get bored you can always listen to the hilarious description on how to hold the "Form Baton" (the Wiimote.) You also have the ability to go back and replay challenges, or practice them if you have to. All this and I forgot to mention the added benefits of really getting into the game. While some people will end up looking like... well, you know, but it can make the game really fun and actually help you with certain challenges. Even while I type this I can't help but to think what this game would have been like with multiplayer. It would have been sooooo much fun. I still recommend this game, that is if you can handle this intense gaming action (kidding).

Pros: Many Good mini-games, How to hold the Wiimote description, Good uses of the Wiimote.
Cons: No multiplayer, Some mini-games suck, Not for all ages.

Review: Dan

Preview: MotorStorm (PS3)

2007-02-07T17:11:00.000-05:00

From what is shown in the demo, MotorStorm looks to be a very good racing game. The player takes place in a tournament set in Monument Valley. The graphics are looking very good at the moment, and could be improved by the day it's released. The environment looks very realistic and expansive. The soundtrack, although I have only heard two or three songs, sounds good. Hopefully they will have added more songs though, by the time the game is released.

But now what the game is all about: gameplay. The controls are tight and the steering is responsive. The game also allows you to use the motion-sensing capabilities of the controller, but most of the time it is too sensitive and takes some getting used to. The game also features excellent AI. The opponents are supposed to have a "memory," so if you bump into the opponent, they will bump back into you. And if you keep running into an opponent, they will supposedly seek out revenge at any cost, even if it means losing the race. Also, there are some nifty features that are added in the game. If you are on a motorbike, you can punch other racers of of their bikes. Also, if you are in a truck, and you honk your horn, other racers on smaller cars will get out of your way to not be run over. There are plenty of types of vehicles to race with, which should lead to many hours of gameplay. There is also supposed to be a good variety of tracks, but only one was playable in the demo.

What's Good: Graphics, AI, variety of vehicles.
What Could Be Better: Soundtrack.

Expected Overall- 9/10

Preview: Eric

Review: Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King (PS2)

2007-02-07T14:35:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 10/10
Sound- 9/10
Gameplay- 8.5/10
Replay Value- 8.5/10
Overall- 9/10

Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King is a solid RPG from Square Enix. The game features excellent graphics, a good story line, and a huge world to explore, but the game moves too slow in some parts to be enjoyed by every one. I highly recommend this game for fans of the RPG genre, but for fans of more fast-paced games, this might be a pass.

Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King has excellent cel-shaded graphics. Most of the time, however, the graphics don't look like cel-shaded graphics. The designers did a very good job with this, and make the game look absolutely stunning. Plus, the characters in the game were designed by the creator of Dragon Ball, so they are very well done. In addition to the graphics, the game also has a great soundtrack. It sounds really good and fits in well with the situations in the game.

The gameplay in Dragon Quest VIII is what one would expect from a Dragon Quest game. There is plenty to explore and the combat is turn-based. However, a new addition to Dragon Quest VIII is the way to level up your character's stats. For every level you gain, you attribute points to spend on your character. This allows you focus on one type of combat style you like best. However, some people might think they are smart by creating a well-balanced character with a few points in each category. I highly advise against this, because this makes you just okay in all categories, instead of amazing in one or two.

Also, this game's story has a tendency to move too slowly. Often times you will find that you must up your level by two or three just to complete the next part in the story. This isn't very bothersome in the beginning of the game, when it is easy to level up, but after a while, when you need to do forty battles to level up once, this gets rather annoying. This leads to the game getting too repetitive for me, and distracts from the story, which is rather good. RPG fans may be able to endure this, but fans of more fast-paced games, this may become too boring. Plus, there are some points in this game (particularly after you get the boat) where you may have no idea where to go. Right when you get the boat, you can travel to some of the hardest places in the game, and the place you are supposed to go is on the opposite side of the map. All in all, though, if you are an RPG fan, this game is a must have. For everyone else, consider my complaints and try to figure out if this game is right for you. (The Final Fantasy XII demo was also once a good selling point, but since it came out already...)

Pros: Excellent cel-shaded graphics, nice orchestral soundtrack, plenty to do.
Cons: Gets repetitive, story moves too slow.

Review: Eric

Review: Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories (PSP*)

2007-02-06T12:33:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9.5/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 8/10
Overall- 9/10

The graphics on this game are great, as well as the gameplay. This is essentially just a port of GTA III, seeing as it has the same map and missions. The game stays true to past GTA's and is done really well on the PSP.

A portable GTA? Are you kidding me? This is a great reason to buy a PSP, because there are those times that you are sitting on a bus and you think "Man I'd really like to kill some people and then run from the cops." Well, Liberty City Stories will solve that problem rather well. The game is really fun to pick up and play which is great for a PSP game. The best feature on this game is by far the graphical aspect of the game this game appears to take full advantage of all 1.8 Gigabytes available (I doubt it really does though.) The gameplay stays true to GTA games of the past although the shooting controls should be reversed. The other aspect of this game that is on another level is the sound. The game has incredible voice acting as well as great sound affects that are timed just fine and won't strangely overlap. Missions in this game can be quite challenging at points, however... you can always cheat... but you wouldn't do that, would you? As far as missions go, there are a huge amount that will keep you entertained for hours. If you are really stuck on a mission, or just don't care about mission completion you can always download a save state.

The only little negative thing about this game is the lack of obvious replay value. By obvious replay value I mean that there are side missions that you can do, but if you aren't aware of them you might not be able to find them. After that there is nothing to do mission-wise, however there is always that GTA staple of going on a total rampage. Although getting far in those can be hard at first until you unlock more area (parts of the map are locked until you complete certain missions). There some small graphical errors and glitches in the original version, but they are patched up nicely in the greatest hits version (no hacking though...) Bottom Line: this is the top selling game on the PSP for a reason, it's a remarkable achievement for a portable system, graphical and overall. If you are old enough or your parents are cool and will let you buy it (it's rated "M" for a reason people), do so immediately.

Pros: Graphics, Audio, Mission selection.

Cons: Minor graphic errors in original, Some missions are really challenging.

Review: Dan

*Also available for PS2 - Review for PSP only.

Review: Mario Kart 64 (N64*)

2007-02-02T12:31:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 8/10
Sound- 9.5/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 8/10
Overall- 9/10

Mario Kart 64 is the best Mario Kart game in the series - out of the five that have been released (not including arcade releases.) The single player in this mode is challenging on 150cc but nice and easy on 50cc, just as it should be. The multiplayer battle is entertaining and will keep you and your friends playing for a while.

Mario Kart 64 is the non-serious racing game to own. The cars in this game aren't meant to a huge graphical achievement, nor are the characters. This is simply a good racing game to casually pick up and play, but be careful because before long, you will be hooked. You get hooked so easy because of how close the races end up being. Especially as the races get closer, they sometimes end up being decided right at the finish line. I can remember races that I won because I fired a red shell and Bowser was stopped inches short of the finish line. That reminds me of two other great aspects of this game: the weapons and characters. Much like Diddy Kong Racing, there is as great weapon set that is incorporated. There is the green shell, red shell, blue shell, mushrooms, fake item boxes, bananas, lighting, Boo, and the star. While some do the typical and expected, such as the shells acting as missiles, but some of the items are very unique, such as the lighting, which will shrink all the karts other than the person who used it. This allows the person who used it to go faster than them and run them over. The characters in the game are all characters that you should recognize from past Nintendo titles.

The problem with this game is the graphics, and while there are some vast improvements for the SNES version, there are some things that appear to be the same. The big one being the characters; since the characters are pre-rendered they might look okay at first, but when you turn you can tell how bad they are. The other big graphical problem is the edges of some courses. There are solid walls of repeated images; I much prefer the invisible wall to that. There are some minor clipping problems but nothing that should affect or distract you to much. All of that aside, this is definitely a great purchase or download from the Virtual Console (although apparently you can not save ghosts, which is where Nintendo REALLY f***ed up), but still worth it.

Pros: Close races, Weapon set, Characters

Cons: Character rendering, Solid walls vs. Invisible walls, No memory pack on VC

Review: Dan

*Also available for download on the VC - Review based on original.

Review: Diddy Kong Racing (N64)

2007-02-01T19:20:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 8.5/10
Sound- 9.5/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 9/10
Overall- 9/10

Diddy Kong Racing is an excellent racing game for kids and adults alike. This game has a very distinctive feel to it and has a great adventure format that will keep you coming back for more. There is, of course, the superb multiplayer aspect of the game that is a great time with your friends.

One of the unique features of this game is the adventure mode. Instead of the standard race selection screen we have grown accustomed to, you are dropped in the middle of a field and you have to drive to different locations were different areas are. The other nice feature is that you are allowed to go to different races at different times. In other words, if you have enough balloons (points) you are allowed to go to any race you want, verses the straight forward progression that has become common in racing games. After you beat each "world" you can take on the boss for that world, which is essential a big animal that races really well. Another great feature of this game is the vehicle selection. In this game you aren't restricted to just a car, you can also choose from a plane or hovercraft, and the controls vary for each, just as they should. There is also a great cast of characters whom you may not be familiar with but they will grow close to you over time, and just as I like, each character has there own strengths and weaknesses (top speed, acceleration, etc.) .

There is also a great weapon set that is incorporated. When you run through different color balloons you get different types of weapons. A red balloon is a missile, a blue is a boost, a green is an obstacle dropper, a yellow is a shield, and a rainbow balloon: special (a magnet attack that pulls you towards an opponent. Mentioning these attacks leads me to the massively fun multiplayer. There is of course the standard race mode but there is also the battle mode. In the standard battle mode you are set in nicely designed courses with balloons and you have to survive. The addition to this is the two courses in which you have to collect a certain amount of bananas (or eggs) before the other people. However this mode does get boring after a while. The only other problem is that your reward for beating adventure mode is "Adventure 2" which is "Adventure" but backwards (Erutnevda?...) While it's fine for a while you will get bored of it unless you are a fan of perfect completion. Don't let that discourage you from buying this game, however, because it is a great single and multiplayer game.

Pros: Adventure mode, Character selection, Multiplayer, Weapon set, Boss races.
Cons: Adventure 2 is nothing special, Collecting eggs/bananas gets boring.

Review: Dan

Review: Resistance: Fall of Man (PS3)

2007-01-26T22:29:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9/10
Sound- 9.5/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 9.5/10
Overall- 9.5/10

Resistance: Fall of Man is the must-own game for the Playstation 3. The game features excellent single player and multiplayer, which will keep you entertained for hours. Resistance is currently the best game for the PS3.

Resistance: Fall of Man was one of the launch titles for the PS3, but something sets it apart from the rest: it is actually good. The first thing I did when I played this game was play the single player. The story for the single player is very well done. Also, I noticed how good the graphics are. Since I don't have an HDTV, however, I wasn't able to fully comprehend how good they actually are. But the one thing I did notice is that it is definitely better than the graphics that can be produced on the PS2. In addition to the graphics, the sound is really done well, too. In some levels the background music really sets the tone for that particular level. For example, some moments seem pretty creepy, or others really tense, just because of the background music (or the lack there of). And while it is done in a rather simplistic nature, it creates the atmosphere for the game.

After I completed the single player, I played some cooperative. The lack of online coop is definitely a minus, but it is still more fun to yell at the person you are playing with when you can actually see them rather than over a mic. After a brief time playing coop, I went online. The online is done well, and the stat system is pretty interesting (except for that week when it didn't work...). The modes are all very fun, and the 40-player games are still fun, but are incredibly hectic since every where you turn, there seems to three opponents ready to gun you down. Speaking of guns, the weapons in this game are simply fantastic. The game is made by Insomniac, the developers of the Ratchet and Clank series, known for its interesting weapons. The variety available is incredible, and the weapons are evenly matched for both humans and Chimera (the enemy in the game). Take the human Carbine and the Chimera Bullseye, both the machine gun types for the separate races. The Carbine is more accurate, but the Bullseye has a higher rate of fire. In conclusion, if you have a PS3, get Resistance: Fall of Man. If you are going to get a PS3, get Resistance: Fall of Man. And if you have a PS3, want Resistance: Fall of Man, but cannot get it for whatever reason, sucks for you.

Pros: Great weapon design, good story, online multiplayer.
Cons: PS3 can do better graphics, no online coop.

Review: Eric

Review: Super Mario 64 (N64*)

2007-01-25T18:57:00.002-05:00

Graphics- 9.5/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 9.5/10
Overall- 10/10

This game was one of only two launch titles for the N64, and it's a good thing it was because this game helped start the system off because of the buzz it created. All that buzz you hear is true, it is what made future platformers great.

This is the next installment in the Mario series and is the first to make the leap to true 3D. Instead of the side-scrolling Mario games we were used to, this game incorporates many new moves such as wall kicks, long jumps and backwards somersaults. The other thing that was added was cap power-ups. The Wing Cap allows Mario to fly, the Metal Cap makes him immune to most damage and allows him to withstand wind and walk underwater, and the Vanish Cap renders him partially invisible and allows him to walk through some obstacles such as wire mesh. The great thing about this game is the wide selection of levels. There are fifteen main stages in total (25 if the games 10 extra mini-levels are included), and each stage is unique. As for the gameplay, it's rather straight forward. You are in Peach's Castle to defeat Bowser and rescue Peach, but the problem is that the doors that lead to beat Bowser require a certain number of stars to open. In order to get enough stars to open the doors you have to jump through picture frames in the castle that lead to all of the worlds where you can get the stars for various tasks that you complete.

The big problem in this game lies in the camera; it's terrible. It starts off being automatically handled by Lakitu, but you can move it on your own using the C buttons. Even that won't save the camera, though. It still manages to get stuck behind walls and other such objects, which over time can end up really frustrating you. There also is some clipping (getting close to a wall = you can see through it) problems but that didn't bother me a great deal. To this day this game is still a great play, because of it's high replay value. Since you are only required to have seventy stars to beat Bowser, most people beat him then. This means that there are still fifty stars left to get in the game, because once you get all 120 you get to blast to the roof of the Castle and see Yoshi himself. This is the game that you wanted to have when the N64 came out because of it's revolutionary effect on gaming and it will go down in video game history as one of the greatest games ever made.

Pros: Gameplay, high replay value, new moves.
Cons: Camera, minor clipping.

Review: Dan

*Also available for download on VC - Review based on original

Review: The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask (N64)

2007-01-25T18:57:00.001-05:00

Graphics- 10/10
Sound- 9.5/10
Gameplay- 9/10
Replay Value- 10/10
Overall- 9.5/10

Majora's Mask is a great sequel to Ocarina of Time. The graphics are mind-blowing and many of the elements that made Ocarina of Time a smashing success return, along with some improvements. However, the three day format that was used really bothered me and put a restriction on my open ended exploration, which is what makes Zelda games so good.

This game takes on the darkest tone of any Zelda game to date, mainly because the game is played in a continuous three day cycle that leads up to the moon crashing into the land of Termina, which is where the story is set, instead of Hyrule. The Moon is about to crash into the Earth because Skull Kid, while being his mischievous self, stole Majora's Mask and it took control over him, causing him to do many bad things including attempting to make the moon crash. Days pass as fast in this game as they did in Ocarina of Time, which on the surface makes three days appear to short to stop the moon, but once again some nice incorporation of music saves the day. The music is unfortunately not as easy flowing as expected, but still nicely done. The main songs in this game are about time control, whether it be traveling back to the start of the cycle, speeding up time, or slowing it down. The other big part of this game is masks (duh) there are so many masks - from the ones that make you run faster to the one that transform you into a Zora the masks definitely make the game and are nicely incorporated.

The problem with this game is that the three day format ends up putting a major restriction on what you do, and as a result you have to plan what you are going to do in each three day cycle beforehand. If you don't you might be forced to give up something mid-task and return to it later, which as you guessed can really piss you off. The other problem is that you might have to waste a whole cycle on a single sidequest you feel you must complete. As for sidequests, that is the game's strength, due in part simply to the sheer mass of sidequests, however some people might find this distracting. If it weren't for that, this game could top Ocarina of Time. Majora's Mask definitely tops it graphics wise because of what the expansion pack made the N64 capable of. There is so much going on in the game and on the screen at once it's almost unbelievable. The land is also as vast as it was in Ocarina of Time, although not as cleverly mapped out in my mind. Anyways the bottom line is that this game makes a nice sequel and is an excellent purchase for any N64 owner.

Pros: Graphics, good plot, easy controls.
Cons: Three day format, music not as good as expected (almost is).

Review: Dan

Review: The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess (Wii*)

2007-01-22T20:04:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 10/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 9/10
Overall- 10/10

I feel like a dumbass for saying this but - buy this game... God, if you don't own this game well...you're a lost cause. There is a stat out there that says 3 out of 4 people who own a Wii own this game. That means 1 out of 4 Wii owners are, in fact, dumbasses.

Some people will ask if this game is better than Ocarina of Time. While some people will say that it is (and I can understand what they are saying), I think that Ocarina of Time is a better game. All the years of hype and build up, along with countless delays (of course) were well worth it.

When this game started up I was amazed by what the graphics look like, because unlike some people who have reviewed the game, I understand that this game was originally intended for Gamecube only and it was decided at the last second to port it onto the Wii. Which leads me to my other point that on some reviews they will criticize the fact that the uses of the Wiimote feel tacked on...well that's because they are. The controls on this game are very well layed out and done in the same style as Ocarina of Time and Majora's Mask, which I like a lot. The biggest change on the controls is the items. In Twilight Princess you set three items to the left, right, and down buttons. When you hit the button it switches to the A button for easy use. The overall gameplay starts out kind of slow, but picks up very quickly and it becomes very exciting. The other aspect of this game that I was curios to see and try out was being a wolf, which I heard is a major part of the plot and story. Well, it is a major part and while it seems like it would be hard to incorporate, it's done flawlessly.

The only minor flaw in this game is its replay value. The replay value is pretty high but it's not as good as Ocarina of Time, because after I beat that game I played it again right away (after I stared at the words "The End" for about an hour...I was in awe.) In this game I have played again but I ended up waiting a couple of days before I did. I am far from perfect completion and it will be a while before I get it. The bottom line is this game's replay value is slightly below what I expected, which might have something to do with the fact that this game isn't as earth-shattering as Ocarina of Time was.

Pros: Everything.
Cons: Slightly less replay value than expected.

Review: Dan

*Also available for Gamecube - Review for Wii only.

Review: Excite Truck (Wii)

2007-01-22T20:01:00.002-05:00

Graphics- 9/10
Sound- 8.5/10
Gameplay- 9/10
Replay Value- 8/10
Overall- 8/10

Excite Truck is an absolutely insane racing game that you wouldn't think works but it's pulled off rather nicely. The game is all about boosting and points (stars). In other words, you can still win if you got the required number of stars even though you finished in last.

This game is better than I expected, because originally I saw it as a 5/6 overall. That changed after my first race. The game is so fast pace; it really gets your heart pumping and makes you want to keep trying. The first thing that I noticed was the disgraceful sound track that is so terrible...it's unreal. This is countered rather nicely by this game being the first Wii game to allow you play your own music on your SD card.

I was curious to see what the graphics would be like because what I had seen in early demos looked pretty decent for a system that is all but bypassing a graphics upgrade. I was right, the graphics on the trucks are really good, and while the background is average you barely have time to notice because you seem to always be going at a speed that blurs everything. As you can tell I love the fast pace of this game, but that isn't the only thing that I like. I also really like the points system, which can allow a second place finisher to end up in first, and while that can piss you off, it can also be an amazing way to comeback. There are several ways for points to be added, such as: Truck Smashes, Air, Air Spins (super tricky), Tree Runs (driving right next to trees), Drift, Truck Throws, Rings, and Crashes (one star only.) The most important aspect of this game is definitely the boosting. The boosting system is fairly common and simple- boost too much and you will overheat, but you can drive through water, snow, or fly through the air to cool yourself down quicker. Although not realistic, is adds a nice element. Overall, it’s a good racing game that should definitely be purchased.

Pros: Game style, own music choice, points system.
Cons: Original music, points system can piss you off.

Review: Dan

Review: Wii Sports (Wii)

2007-01-22T20:01:00.001-05:00

Graphics- 7/10
Sound- 9/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 8.5/10
Overall- 8.5/10

Normally this is the spot I tell if you should buy the game. Well you get the game with the Wii so it doesn't matter. Don't forget about it just because it's an in package game. It's really good and shows what the Wiimote can do nicely.

This was the first game I played on my Wii because I wanted to see what the Wiimote could do, and lets face that is the point of this game. Many people think that this is just a party game but there is a skill level system that is involved in this game. It's so simple but makes you want to improve and play solo. I really don't feel like I have to say the obvious but this is the game to play with all of your friends. I guarantee a good time.

Tennis- One of the better games out of the five. This game is very responsive and not too challenging, which is what I believe Nintendo was trying to achieve. This is a game that is great when played solo but even better when played with someone. The game actually responds to how hard you serve and hit which is a big plus because you can really trick out an opponent.

Baseball- The most responsive game by far. You can test out how responsive the game is before the pitch by doing your best Sheffield impression. However, the downside to this game is the inability to change the number of innings. It's at three by default, which is nice, but there are some times where I want to play the full nine innings.

Bowling- The hardest to master, but is still fun. I was worried how Nintendo would handle this one because admittedly people bowl differently, but it worked out well. There are a few basic motions: pull back and push forward and, of course, timing. Timing is important because you have to time your release of the ball with your Mii, which is done rather easily after a while.

Boxing- The least responsive game easily, sometimes the nunchuck is sometimes registered as the Wiimote and vice versa. However, the game is still incredibly fun and you finally get the chance to beat up your really annoying friends, assuming you have at least one. This is the game that wears you out the most, so fatties beware.

Golf- The game that you are least likely to play, but very fun. In this case however, fun comes with a challenge. There is a set amount if force you can use and going over can cost you - odds are you will end up out of bounds, which, as any golfer knows, that costs you two strokes. The game is overall good but the problem lies in putting. When you get close to the hole the Wiimote seems to go haywire, and only choose to respond at certain times, which can be very frustrating.

The other thing I forgot to mention is the use of your Mii's which adds a new element to the game and increases it's longevity. Overall this game should not be forgotten for Twilight Princess, because it is definitely well worth some time and even more worth when you have some friends over to play it with you...you do have friends right?

Pros: Baseball, Bowling, Tennis, great party game.
Cons: Putting, Boxing is unresponsive.

Review: Dan

Review: Jet Moto (PS1*)

2007-01-22T17:31:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 7/10
Sound- 9/10
Gameplay- 7/10
Replay Value- 6/10
Overall- 7/10

Jet Moto is a basic racing game with jet skis instead of cars. The graphics are decent and the soundtrack is excellent, but the game is very difficult and will take a long while to master.

Simply put, Jet Moto is an average racing game. The thing that sets it apart is that the vehicles are all-terrain, rocket-powered jet skis. However, other than the skins, they all look the same. The developers had a chance to something really innovative, but they passed up the opportunity. Also, they made this game very hard. On easy difficulty, the game is, well, easy. Other than that, the learning curve is very steep, and it is almost impossible to unlock all of the tracks. Also, this game has VERY blatant in-game advertising. The most innovative part of the game is the grapple, which allows you to make sharp turns very easily. If used wisely, this can save you from losing a race.

On the other hand, the graphics in this game are decent. Most of the levels look pretty good, and the character models are detailed. The soundtrack for this game is great. Each track has a different tune and all of them, with the exception of maybe one or two, are really good. Also, the sound effects are decent.

Pros: Graphics, soundtrack, grapple.
Cons: VERY difficult, Cheap AI.

Review: Eric

*Also available for PC. Review for PS1 only.

Review: Call of Duty 3 (Wii*)

2007-01-21T18:47:00.001-05:00

Graphics- 8.5/10
Sound- 9/10
Gameplay- 7.5/10
Replay Value- 5/10
Overall- 7/10

Call of Duty 3 is an ok shooter for the Wii, with decent graphics and low replay value. There are points in this game that are such an obvious attempt to incorporate the Wiimote it makes you want to scream. The real killer is lack of multiplayer.

If you are going to buy a shooter game for the Wii this is the one to buy because it's simply the only respectable shooting title on the market for the Wii right now. The use of the Wiimote translates really well into this game; however, unless you have the right position your arms will get very tired. This game uses the Wiimote as your cross hairs, which I expect to be the common approach on future shooters. The thing that bothers me is when you are asked to use the Wiimote in ways that were obviously added just to use the Wiimote, and on top of that the don't respond well, one of the worst being the driving. The driving in this game is horrendous, but way worse than that is the fact that there is no multiplayer (only on the Wii). This game would be so much more fun if I was playing it against someone else. Activision really screwed up there.

The game itself apparently hasn't changed much since the second Call of Duty, however I never owned that so I can't say if it is. I still think this game has some very strong points to it, such as the intensity of it. There are points in this game where you are in the middle of so many enemies it's unreal. While the graphics in this game should be better, they are respectable. One of the best things in this game, surprisingly, is the sound. It is very realistic and intense, like the voice acting which is done really well. The only reason that I know how good the voice acting is, is because you can not skip the cut scenes and, unlike Ocarina Of Time, I really don't care about the cut scenes, I just want to blow the Nazi's faces off. Bottom line: if you own the Wii this is the shooting game to get.

Pros: Intense, controls.
Cons: No multiplayer, can't skip cut scenes, annoying uses of Wiimote.

Review: Dan

*Available for many systems. Review for Wii only.

Review: The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (N64*)

2007-01-20T21:24:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 10/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 10/10
Overall- 10/10

I feel like a dumbass for saying this but - buy this game... God, if you don't own this game well...you're a lost cause.

This game needs no review, it's the best game ever. Period, end of discussion. Don't even bother to say any other game, not Majora's Mask, or Twilight Princess. When this game came out it blew people's minds and for a good reason. Look at those graphics. Jeez, at that time they were far and away the best graphics ever. What those graphics did for games on the N64 and games in general... it's insane. The gameplay in this game is a mile beyond every other game, from the absolutely MASSIVE playing field to the dungeons there is always something being done that makes you want to come back for more. The dungeons in this game are so amazing and in depth. They may be considered complicated, but they are at the right level - not to complicated. The hardest Temple is the Water Temple and that is the only temple that I took a significant amount of time to beat.

The sound in this game is also on another level. The sound is nicely timed and used when it is needed. The most important part of this game involves sound and let me just say that the songs are just phenomenal and incorporated flawlessly. Whenever I learn a song again I get chills up and down my spine. I say again because I have played this game some many times it is unreal, it is probably around a hundred - and I am not kidding - one hundred, probably over. The people who say that this game has no replay value probably didn't play this game. From the countless sidequests, to perfect completion attempts, along with beating the game without dying (it is possible...I have done it), and not to mention that fact that you just want to play it again.

Some people might say that since the fact that the ability to skip cut scenes doesn't exist the game should receive a slightly lower score. Well to that I say "WHAT THE F***?!?!" I want to watch the cut scenes, I want to get those chills up and down my spine, I want to remember why I must destroy Ganon. The only other argument that I hear is that the lack of ability to rematch defeated bosses and play through completed dungeons deems a lower score. Why don't you replay the game? This game is well deserving of all of the hype that it receives and is the greatest game of all time.

Pros: Everything.
Cons: Nothing.

Review: Dan

*Available for download on the VC - Review based on original.

Review: Hitman: Blood Money (360*)

2007-01-19T17:21:00.000-05:00

Graphics-8.5/10
Sound-7/10
Gameplay- 9/10
Replay Value-8.5/10
Overall- 8.5/10

Hitman returns on the 360. It delivers for Hitman fans, but it might not be for everyone.

Hitman is a game of patience, and this doesn't change with Blood Money. The game can be slow, but very fun if you're patient. You have to plan your actions, carefully. Although you can run and gun, you'll probably lose. Besides that, you are given many options on how and what to do, making the experience very involving. The graphics are pretty good. But there are some minor glitches with the sound. Some sound is lost in certain parts, but this is rare. There lots of options and customizable weapons, giving you some replay value. This game can be fun, for the patient.

Pros: Fun, intuitive game play. Good replay Value. Options. Weapons.
Cons: Sound problems in certain parts.

Review: Vedran

* Available for many systems. Review for 360 only.

Review: Monopoly Party (Gamecube*)

2007-01-19T17:18:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 3/10
Sound- 1/10
Gameplay- 8/10
Replay Value- 5/10
Overall- 5/10

Monopoly Party is a pretty bad game. The graphics and sound in this game are terrible and can distract you from the game. This is the lazy man's Monopoly, and if you don't like to play Monopoly...then why are you reading this? Don't buy this game (unless you like to play Monopoly.)

Let me start off by saying I only paid $20 for this game and I still might have over paid. My initial though was, "Hey, this could be fun to play with my friends sometimes." I guess it was at first, but the novelty of the game quickly wears off because the graphics and increasingly annoying soundtrack and voice acting distract you. The graphics in this game are terrible, but I guess if you're considering buying this it's probably not for the graphics. You will get fed up with the voice acting in this game, no matter why you're buying it. Not only is the acting bad, but it's repetitive and stupid sounding. The new addition to this game is the way to play called "Party" (verses classic) and that game is absolutely terrible, I can't even begin to explain it and all of its crazy rules.

The only positive thing about this game is it stays true to Monopoly and doesn't change the basic format unless you personally change the settings. You can set things such as the free parking jackpot and $400 when you land on "Go." 10 dollars is about the right price for this game.

Pros: Good if you like Monopoly. Good if you're lazy.
Cons: Graphics. Sound. Bad if you don't like Monopoly.

Review: Dan

*Game also available for Xbox and PS2. Review for Gamecube only.

Review: Sonic Adventure 2 Battle (Gamecube*)

2007-01-19T17:16:00.000-05:00

Graphics - 7.5/10
Sound- 3/10
Gameplay- 8.5/10
Replay Value- 9/10
Overall- 7/10

Sonic Adventure 2 Battle has some good updates from the Dreamcast version but when place with bad voice acting and average graphics- it makes an average game. Don't spend $50 dollars on it, more like $25-$30.

Sonic Adventure 2 Battle has a great starting ground and basic idea but it falls short when it comes to voice acting and camera. The voice acting in this game is horrendous- I mean this is some of the worst I've ever heard. The only thing that might be considered worse is the camera- but I don't think so. The camera in this game is worse than Super Mario 64. However you can fix it with "L" and "R" but that's hard to get to work properly. Also, the graphics in this game would have been a little better off with an update.

Even though there are so many negative the gameplay isn't too bad- at least the multiplayer. The story mode has its peaks and drops. There are some levels that are really good, but some levels absolutely suck out loud. The multiplayer is really fun and entertaining. The best part of this game is it's really high replay value. There are five different ways to complete each level, and they are pretty challenging and will keep you coming back for weeks.

Pros: Gameplay. High replay value.
Cons: Voice acting. Average graphics. Camera.

Review: Dan

*Game also released for Dreamcast - Review for Gamecube version only.

Review: Mercenaries: Playground of Destruction (PS2*)

2007-01-19T17:12:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 8/10
Sound- 8/10
Gameplay- 9/10
Replay Value- 8/10
Overall- 8.5/10

Mercenaries: Playground of Destruction is a pretty fun game by LucasArts. The expansive environment and many purchasable items make the game entertaining and last for hours. This is a very solid game and should be checked out by fans of the third person shooter genre.

Mercenaries: Playground of Destruction is set in North Korea, around the capital of Pyongyang. The environment is well-detailed and well put together. The character models also look nice and the animations flow smoothly. The game has many vehicles, and they all look good. The sound effects are also well done. There is no strange echo or unnecessary overlapping.

The best part of this game, however, is the gameplay. The story is ok and could use some improving. Besides that, there is just so much that you can do in this game. It is a lot of fun to just drift from the story line and wander around, doing random stuff, like putting C4 on the street and exploding it when a car goes by. The ability to do so much really adds to the replay value, because you always can figure out new areas to explore and new things to do.

Pros: Graphics, sound, expansive environment.
Cons: Story a little weak.

Review: Eric

*Also available for Xbox. Review for PS2 only.

Review: Super Monkey Ball 2 (Gamecube)

2007-01-19T17:05:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 6/10
Sound- 7/10
Gameplay- 9/10
Replay Value- 5/10
Overall- 6.5/10

Super Monkey Ball 2 has gone through a major update since the first when came out and the new additions and improvements make the game worth purchase consideration (for a party that is).

Super Monkey Ball 2 is a great party game and not much more. Whenever you have a bunch of friends over it's a great way to pass the time. This is only made better if your willing to unlock all of the party games- and you should be because it's not that hard. The game itself is a great game. It's pretty challenging at parts but you'll be back quickly if you do decide to give up.

However, they tried to incorporate an actual plot into this game- and they really shouldn't have. I barely understand the plot as it is; it has something to do with a giant monkey shrinking the main characters down to a smaller size and... I don't know. The graphics in this game aren't the greatest and it isn't helped by the fact that you can fly right through the stage backgrounds. As for the sound in the game it's, well... unique. The soundtrack is OK at first but after a while it gets incredible annoying and I usually mute the TV. The worst part of this game is the lack of replay value. The only reason you would want to replay is to finish unlocking all of the party games and after you beat the game on advance for the first time you should be pretty close to having enough points for them. Overall it’s a good $30 dollar buy.

Pros: Party games. Good the first time.
Cons: Sound. Minimal replay value. Graphics meager.

Review: Dan

Review: Crash Bandicoot (PS1)

2007-01-19T17:00:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 6/10
Sound- 7/10
Gameplay- 7/10
Replay Value- 4/10
Overall- 6/10

Crash Bandicoot became the mascot for the PS1, and this game showcases why. It is a fun platformer, but be prepared for a challenge because this game is very hard.

Crash Bandicoot has some decent graphics for the PS1. They will not win any awards, but they are good enough not to distract you from the game and make you say, "Wow, these are bad graphics. The most detailed part is the levels. The backgrounds all look nice and the animations flow very smoothly. However, the characters could have used some more touching up. The sound effects in this game are also pretty good. They are not glitchy and will not strangely overlap (See: Madden '07). The background music is also well done, and each tune fits well in each of the levels.

The gameplay for Crash Bandicoot is typical platformer. The team at Naughty Dog "borrowed" a lot of themes from Mario, but they added their own twist to fit in the game (collect 100 apples, not coins, for an extra life). However, be prepared to jump in this game. A LOT. Most levels have you jump from platform to platform to get to the end of the level. And because of this, you will die. A LOT. This is why the game is so frustrating and hard. It is often times hard to judge distances, making you jump too short or too long, resulting in a near-guaranteed death. This also brings the replay value down because you do not feel you need to replay levels if you will just die during them. Despite the jumping and dying, however, the game is pretty fun. If you enjoy a challenge, pick up this game. But if you don't, approach with caution.

Pros: Fun, smooth animations, nice level variety.
Cons: Little replay value, repetitive animations, very linear gameplay, very difficult.

Review: Eric

Review: Luigi's Mansion (Gamecube)

2007-01-19T16:53:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 7/10
Sound- 8.5/10
Gameplay- 8/10
Replay Value- 3/10
Overall- 7/10

This is the first official Mario game to feature Luigi exclusively and was a great way to help launch the Gamecube. This game definitely showed Nintendo that Luigi has the power to sell a game. This is a good buy for almost any gamer.

Luigi's Mansion features Luigi searching for Mario instead of Mario searching for Peach. As it turns out Luigi won a mansion in a contest that he didn't enter. He and Mario planned to celebrate at the mansion that night. Seeing as Mario arrived there first he was captured. While this plot is weak, it's what you would expect from a game that features a Mario Bro. As it turns out Luigi has to fight ghosts by sucking them into a vacuum (the Poltergust 3000) to fight his way through the mansion. The controls in this game are a bit confusing at first (the Poltergust 3000 doesn't help) but don't worry, because after a while you'll be sucking things like a pro (pun?... What pun?)

While the graphics won't blow your mind they are were a nice start for the Gamecube and in a sense, the graphics that we are used to in a Mario Bros. 3D platformer. The sound in this game pretty good- Luigi will actually shout out "MARRRRRIIIIIOOOOO!?!?" while he's wandering the mansion and there are other little minor sound effects such as wall tapping that sound really good. There are just parts where, in my mind, the sound seems to fall short- possibly due to a lack of it a certain points. The only down side to this game is the total lack of replay value. Once you're done with this game-you're pretty much done with it. The only reason you might want to play again is to get a higher score, but I don't think you will.

Pros: Sound. Good controls once mastered. Typical Mario (I mean Luigi) game.
Cons: No replay value. OK graphics.

Review: Dan

Review: Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec (PS2)

2007-01-19T16:48:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 10/10
Sound- 9/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 9/10
Overall- 9.5/10

The Gran Turismo series is known for excellent racing games, and Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec is no exception. With excellent graphics, a nice soundtrack, and plenty of cars and racetracks, Gran Turismo 3 will keep you entertained for hours on end. Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec is probably the best racing game on the PS2.

Gran Turismo 3 was a huge step forward for the series from Gran Turismo 2. First of all, it was the first game in the series on the PS2. Second, the graphics made a huge improvement. Yes, I know PS1 graphics are much worse than PS2. However, people were complementing GT2 on its graphics and it was on the PS1. The graphics of GT3 are amazing. They are so realistic (besides the fact that there is no collision damage). Everything in GT3 looks nice. The cars, the courses, the scenery, everything. In addition, GT3 comes with an exceptional soundtrack to add to the experience.

As for the gameplay, Gran Turismo 3 is more than the average racing game. The guys at Polyphony made sure that the physics in this game were lifelike, and they are. Also, there are a ton of cars in this game. Most of them are offered from the get-go, and their price range from around 10,000 Credits to 2 million Credits. However, the best cars are only available by unlocking them. You do this by coming in first in all of the races in a tournament. There are cars from several automakers around the world, and there are many types of cars, too, from sedans to racecars to rally cars to F-1 cars, they're all here. Also, the game has plenty of beautiful looking tracks to race around on. With all the unlockables and races, GT3 will keep you busy for a long time.

Pros: Superb graphics, lots of cars and tracks, good soundtrack.
Cons: No collision damage.

Review: Eric

Review: Halo (Xbox*)

2007-01-19T16:43:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 9/10
Overall- 9.5/10

Halo is the Xbox game to get. Its exciting gameplay truly changes shooters. Along with that, Halo delivers on style, music, and story.

Halo came out as a launch title for the Xbox, it was the killer app the new console needed. Halo's gameplay is perfect. In shooters, the little details really matter, from the details on the gun to the muzzle flash to the sound of the gun, and halo does it right. Every move you make feels just right. Every thing is balanced in way so you get sucked right into the game. Then, the action takes place. Everything's amped up- the aliens you're fighting are smart, they work together, they use snipers, and they attack with blazing speed. You're on the edge of your seat most of the time in Halo. As well you're given an awesome arsenal to fight with- rifles, snipers, grenades, rocket launchers, plasma weapons. Each weapon is useful in its own way, and they’re all fun. Plasma grenades stick to enemies, needlers follow the target you're shooting. Bottom line- this game is FUN.

Along with that the game is charged with powerful music and nice graphics that compliment the game play. The game progresses amazingly, you do not get bored half way through, nor do you feel rushed. Like I said, the music is powerful, and it really fits the whole setting and feeling of the game. The music also changes depending on the mood and what's happening. As well, Halo has an excellent multiplayer part to it that is great fun. There are plenty of options in multiplayer and it's very exciting. The multiplayer really adds great replay value. Halo is a superb game; it really delivers in all aspects and is plenty of fun.

Pros: Game play, design, levels, weapons, music, multiplayer.
Cons: Not for everyone.

Review: Vedran

* Also on PC

Review: Ninja Gaiden Black (Xbox)

2007-01-19T16:37:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9.5/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 9.5/10
Replay Value- 7/10
Overall- 9.5/10

Ninja Gaiden is an amazing game that keeps you on your toes and focused on the action with its high difficulty and great game play.

Ninja Gaiden Black is an updated version of the older Xbox Ninja Gaiden, it only costs 5 dollars more and it's worth it. But lets talk about how the game actually plays. The first thing you'll notice is the graphics, they're very detailed (though not as detailed as some other Xbox games) and they're very shiny. The screen is clear and very easy on the eyes. But the games high point is, as it should be, the game play. Now, a warning first, this game is very, VERY, hard. It is possibly the hardest game on the Xbox. But the game play is just perfect, it works very well and it makes you plan out your attacks and the techniques you learn are actually useful (life-saving, actually). As well, all of your attacks (and your enemy's attacks) feel very real. You can actually feel the clash of flesh and steel, and this game received the M rating for a reason. Many times you slice limbs and heads of enemies, which are followed quickly by sprays of blood. Everything just fits together perfectly, the game play, although hard, is very fun, exciting, addictive, and just perfect.

But of course, this doesn't just include cutting up the many, many enemies, it includes exploring various environments, from a village, to an airship, and a huge, ancient city to ruins filled with hazards. Also, you'll be solving many puzzles to advance forward. These puzzles are a bit challenging, but still fun. These 3 parts of the game play (that is, fighting, exploration, and puzzles) are perfectly put together and balanced. As for the story, it's really well written. There are some plot twists, but the the story never gets confusing, and it's very fun to see the characters develop. It's a very good story that has a lot to it, making it very enjoyable. Although, the replay value is a little low. That's Ninja Gaiden Black, a perfect, well put together game that offers a good challenge with classic, pure, challenging, and just plain fun game play that keeps up as the game advances and it's supported by superb graphics and a great cast of characters and a very enjoyable plot.

Pros: Very fun, quick game play. Great graphics.
Cons: Might be too hard.

Review: Vedran

Review: The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion (360*)

2007-01-19T16:35:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9.5/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 10/10
Overall- 9.5/10

Oblivion is, simply put an excellent game. Do not miss this one.

Ever since I started playing this game, I cannot stop. It is amazing, the main quest is very fun and the story is great, but there is so much more to do. There are many groups and guilds you can join, giving you even more quests to do. The game is HUGE, so you can also go on your own adventures as well. There are hundreds of ruins, forts, castles, and settlements to explore, where you can find thousands of items, weapons, and armor. Along the way, you'll fight many creatures, from goblins to ghosts, and bandits to vampires. The combat system really shines, as it is pretty involving and very exciting, making these encounters very enjoyable. It's so fun to fight in this game that I've often found myself actually looking for creatures to fight, and this doesn't happen often with RPGs. Also, as you travel through this game, advancing through the main plot and the many other smaller plots, your adventures will be pushed forward with the game's amazing and powerful soundtrack. And, of course, the graphics are amazing. There's a TON of detail in the characters, creatures, and environments, giving the game a sense of realism, but with a special epic fantasy feeling. Many times on your travels, you'll find yourself standing on hills, surrounded by unbelievable environments that truly take your breath away.

There are only two problems with this game- long loading times, and, since the graphics are so detailed, you won't be able to see in perfect detail very far away, but it still looks good. This game is pretty much perfect, as it keeps you playing, giving you a near endless supply of fun, exciting, and just plain amazing quests and adventures. This is a must own game for the Xbox 360.

Pros: A lot to do great music and graphics, very fun. TONS of replay value.
Cons: Long loading times.

Review: Vedran

*Also available for PS3. Review for Xbox 360 only

Review: Guitar Hero (PS2)

2007-01-19T16:31:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 8/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 9/10
Overall- 9.5/10

Guitar Hero, for the PS2, delivers fun gameplay and an amazing soundtrack, and makes great use of the guitar controller. A must-have game for any PS2 owner.

Guitar Hero is a very fun game. The guitar controller adds a lot, and really immerses you in the game. It also brings a new level of difficulty to typical rhythm-based games. But the most important part of the game: music. The variety of music in this game is incredible. From classic rock to heavy metal to punk to alternative to grunge, it's all here. There are four difficulty levels: easy, medium, hard, and expert, and for each difficulty level the number of notes in a song and the amount of frets used increases. The learning curve is a little steep, but if you play guitar or are good at rhythm-based games you should be fine.

And for the graphics, well... the fretboards look cool, I guess, and the characters look... interesting. Yeah, it is a little hard to judge the graphics because all there is the background and the characters. They all look good, though. The replay value for this game is really high because there are plenty of unlockables and it will take you forever to be perfect at this game. Also, the amount of songs that you can play really helps so that it doesn't feel like you are playing the same old stuff over and over again.

Pros: Soundtrack, controller, plenty of unlockables.
Cons: Learning curve, no Pink Floyd or Beatles.

Review: Eric

Review: 007: Agent Under Fire (Gamecube*)

2007-01-19T16:29:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 7/10
Sound- 9/10
Gameplay- 7.5/10
Replay Value- 5/10
Overall- 7/10

007: Agent Under Fire is a great multiplayer game with an ok single player. The story mode in this game is what you would expect from a 007 game. The graphics are an improvement from N64 although not a great one. The game has very little replay value other than getting better scores.

007: Agent Under Fire was the first Bond game on the Gamecube and you can tell because the graphics are about the same as the N64. The single player itself is mediocre at best because of its low difficulty level. There are a few levels that you have to drive a car, which doesn't translate well onto the Gamecube. The single player in this game is really short with very few creative levels with some of the levels appearing out of place due to difficulty (the eighth level is one of the hardest levels in the game and the last level is one of the easiest). The best part of this game is the multiplayer definitely. The Q-Claw and Jet Pack add a nice touch but can become cheap and annoying after some time (they can be turned off.) The level choices aren't the greatest- mainly because of their size- but some (Town and Harbor) are pretty good. The multiplayer can get boring after some time because it's too basic. Overall it's just an ok start to James Bond in the next generation.

Pros: Multiplayer. Controls. Easy.
Cons: Single player. Driving levels. Too easy.

Review: Dan

*Game also available for PS2 and Xbox - Review for Gamecube only

Review: Spider-Man 2 (Gamecube*)

2007-01-19T16:25:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 10/10
Sound- 5/10
Gameplay- 7.5/10
Replay Value- 6/10
Overall-7.5/10

Spider-Man 2 is a fantastic visual presentation along with seemingly unlimited roaming ability in New York City. The problems lie within the missions - they become very repetitive, you get bored of the about 4 different mission styles. If not for that, this game would be amazing as a sandbox game.

Have you ever wanted to dive off of the Empire State Building? Well now you can - and no doubt will in Spider-Man 2. The rendering of New York City is stunning which leads to willingness to explore. The main story that you follow isn't anything special but it's enough to keep your attention as well as providing a decent challenge. The only thing that might match the rendering of New York in awesomeness is the fighting - the style in which you fight is breath-taking. You can run up to someone and punch them into the air at fight up in the sky. The controls in this game are also pretty easy to learn- but can get complicated after buying a couple of new moves.

However this game can get very repetitive after the main story is finished. There are about 4 different mission styles that you repeat, repeat, repeat, and repeat. This always led to me turning off out of boredom - which I don't do a lot. The other problem is the sound - it constantly overlaps itself, but the narrator in the game is great and sarcastic. If you beat the game 100% there is very, very, very little to do afterwards. If they come out with Spider-Man 3, still buy it.

Pros: Stunning visuals. Good storyline. Nice fighting style. Controls.
Cons: Repetitive. Sound overlaps. Low replay value. Controls.

Review: Dan

*Game also available for PS2 and Xbox - review for Gamecube only

Review: Super Smash Bros. Melee (Gamecube)

2007-01-19T16:22:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 9/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 8.5/10
Overall-9/10

Super Smash Bros. Melee was a great almost launch title for the Gamecube. I know it was the first game I wanted for it. The game has good graphics, is glitch free, and, as always with the series, a must have for a gamer gathering.

This game is very similar to the N64 version with the exception of new characters and updated graphics. The single player in this game is massively addictive, not only because you can unlock new characters, but you can also unlock trophies. The multiplayer in this game (as in N64) is pretty much the reason the you should buy the game (if you have four controllers... and friends.) Event mode is nice and plays well, as well as adding a nice challenge to the game. The bad thing about this game is that it can get boring after awhile but that phase should pass quickly and you'll playing once again. The sound in this game is really good and is nicely timed with cool visual effects. This was definitely the game to have when Gamecube came out and it still is the game to have when you and your friends get together.

Pros: Multiplayer. Visual effects. Good replay value.
Cons: Some people might get bored of it - not many.

Review: Dan

Review: Katamari Damacy (PS2)

2007-01-19T16:19:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 8/10
Sound- 8/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 6/10
Overall- 8/10

Katamari Damacy is a simplistic but innovative game from Japan. The simple graphics, sound, and gameplay are trippy, different, and fun, but after a while gets a little boring.

Katamari Damacy is one of those trippy games from Japan that is a sleeper hit, like Rez. The gameplay is very simplistic. You, the Prince of All Cosmos, have to roll up all the things that are scattered across the Earth with your Katamari to create stars because your dad, the King of All Cosmos, accidentally destroyed them all one night (how they make this stuff up, I'll never know). While this may sound boring, it actually leads to some surprisingly fun gameplay.

You will quickly become addicted to this game, as the strange but fitting graphics draw you in to a cartoonish representation of the Earth. The reason the graphics work for this game is because of the type of game that Katamari Damacy is. You would not want ultra-realistic graphics for this game. Also, the soundtrack and sound effects of Katamari Damacy fit well into this crazy game. They are not distracting and complement the game nicely.
That being said, this game has very little replay value. The multiplayer may keep you and your friends entertained for a short while, but after you beat the game, you become bored because once you have seen what this game has to offer once, it is not as fun the next time.

Pros: Innovative gameplay, creative storyline, good control scheme, trippy graphics and. soundtrack
Cons: Multiplayer lacking, little replay value.

Review: Eric

Review: Madden 2007 (PSP*)

2007-01-19T12:40:00.000-05:00

Graphics- 7/10
Sound- 8/10
Gameplay- 9/10
Replay Value- 9/10
Overall- 8.5/10

This is the same game only put onto the PSP. Madden '07 brings back the same features that you're used to without anything new.

The graphics in this game are great for the PSP. However if glitches bother you this game will drive you crazy. The one main glitch is what I like to call "button switching." This annoying and somewhat common glitch is only noticed before a play. If you want to change a play or view the play on the field you hit "R" and it zooms out and shows the play with the button assigned to each player. However sometimes when you do this it will mix up the buttons (it always fixes itself before the play.) There are other minor glitches you might notice on instant replays, but your not likely to catch them during gameplay. The only other flaw is the announcing, which will sometime repeat or delay itself. Otherwise the second Madden title on the PSP has a nice overall feel and quality to it. I also really enjoy showing it to people who are unaware of what the PSP is capable of - the usually say something along the lines of "Dude, that looks like PS2 graphics." Another positive thing is the load times have been cut in half this year, which is always positive. The game does have some minor lag but it's not that bad and it's present all Madden versions. I can't wait to see if these glitches will be fixed on '08 or not.

Pros: Great graphics. Better load times than last year. Same Madden we've come to know.

Cons: Glitches, Glitches, and Glitches. Al Micheals calling is sometimes messed up. Same Madden we've come to know.

Review: Dan

* Game for every console (includes PC)- Review for PSP only