Hey there fellow gamers. I realize it's been a while since my last article. I've been having issues running around in life, but I've finally managed to take time out of my day to research and write a new article. Little Big Planet 2 is very well on its way folks! Be prepared to lead Sackboy on yet another adventure filled with random stickers, outrageous levels, and ridiculous scenarios. The first installment was a HUGE success in the gaming market, and it also became a benchmark for future games. First, a recap of the Little Big Planet, the first one.
Little Big Planet is very intriguing in its gameplay. It revolves around platformed puzzle-solving, and situations created by a third party. Whilst the game is a side-scroller, it is in no way outdated. It should be noted this side scrolling game makes use of 3D aspects. You can move to the forefront, middle, or background of the platform. Sackboy, our wondrously small hero, embarks on an epic quest to collect stickers, find important people, and do battle with a lonely "Collector."Although the atmosphere may feel a little childish, it feels a lot more happy than immature. In fact, playing the game always seemed to brighten my days significantly. One of the main reasons Little Big Planet was able to garnish such positive reviews was because of its utilization of third party aspects. More specifically, other gamers. Media Molecule, the developers of LBP, granted power to gamers by allowing them to create levels. This became a large aspect of the game: to create your own levels, and enjoy the works of others. Little Big Planet managed to set the standards for games on the PS3 platform.
I'm afraid I must begin with some bad news. Most, if not all of you probably already know, LBP 2 has been delayed to January of 2011 *insert sadface here*. Probably one of the biggest things to look forward to is more, yes even more, variety. Players will now have even more control of the levels they create. This, in turn, means more creative, expansive levels created by the very gamers who enjoy the game. An added feature to the level-creating system allows the player to create genres inside of LBP. For example, you can create a racing level, or role-playing levels. Creators can choose to manipulate the camera, add in cutscenes (okay, now THAT is utterly BADASS!!!!), record personal sound effects, put in their favorite music, and connect multiple levels together to create a marathon. More chances to make Sackboy look the way you want him too as well. Heck, make him a ninja! Talk about power to the gamers!
To be honest, there really isn't too much information on LBP 2. It appears that Media Molecule is really trying to push the third-party level creation aspect that was such a hit with the first title. Little Big Planet set the bar very high with customization, and it plans to set it even higher with the second. This game seems to appeal more towards people who 1) enjoys the creativity of others -and/or- 2) enjoys creating exciting new challengers. So LBP gamers: get creating!
Here's a nice little trailer for you guys as well!
Why hello there again. Every gamer from about 5 to 10 years ago knows about the success and popularity that Legend of Zelda achieved through the game Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. Since then, the game has been constantly reformatted, such as for the Gamecube (Master Quest/Collector's Edition) and Wii (Virtual Download). But the fan base of the Legend of Zelda titles didn't begin there. The very first Legend of Zelda (2D sidescrolling ftw!) was a sensation amongst gamers. Almost all games under the name Legend of Zelda have managed to achieve a favorable recognition. Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword will be the newest console game, being released for the Nintendo Wii. But before we talk about the new one, a recap of some of my favorite titles from the series is in order.
The first Legend of Zelda game I was exposed to was Ocarina of Time, on the N64. And from the beginning, I was utterly enticed. The storyline, gameplay, graphics, and many other aspects of the game were leagues ahead of most other games I've played prior to that point. In fact, the storyline is what really did me in. Majora's Mask was quite enjoyable as well. Most people complained about the time limit that the game imposed on the player, but I found it to help. I felt rushed, and more in to trying to get things done in a swift manner. Wind Waker was a sensation for me. Exploring a new aspect of the Legend of Zelda series, sea travel, while still maintaining that musical aspect had me hooked on the game for a long time. The cell-shaded graphics were easy on the eyes, although some may disagree. Essentially, I really enjoyed the console games, but the handheld ones were entertaining as well. Oracle of Ages and Seasons were challenging, albeit their relatively bland storylines (to me, anyways).
As of right now, not much information has been released for Skyward Sword. However, it appears as though Miyamoto is pouring his heart and soul into creating a riveting experience for the gamers. In fact, Miyamoto is so ready to make the game a success, Skyward Sword will feature real, orchestrated music! The game attempts to harness the motion/free-wielding feature to its fullest extent. The player will have almost full access to the movements of the sword. Remember when Twilight Princess was released for the Wii? At some points, you may move your controller side-to-side, but Link, our silent hero, would react with a vertical slash (lolwut?). This time around, the Zelda team gives Link the ability to actually abide by the movements of the player. Meaning, when you move your sword horizontally, Link will ACTUALLY do the same! The nunchuck will also have a crucial role, other than moving link around. When certain items require two hands for Link, the item will also require two hands for the gamer. Like the bow and arrow! The nunchuck will also act as Link's shield. Whatever you do with the controller, Link does with his shield as well. Booyah! It's like that very first step into virtual reality gaming.
Something of importance is that the graphics of the game will be somewhat cell-shaded, much like Wind Waker. However, to forsake the childish atmosphere of Wind Waker, Skyward Sword will feature an Adult Link. It's true, some will really be irked at the team for creating another cell-shaded. But considering the flow and detail of cell-shaded games, I wouldn't particularly mind another. In fact, it would be kind of refreshing considering the forlorn ambiance of Twilight Princess.
Definitely one of the favorites for veterans of the Legend of Zelda titles were the items. Some items were extremely innovative. For example, the ever-so-popular Hookshot/Longshot was so awesome, it made constant comebacks. This contraption brought things to you, brought you to things, and acted as a projectile. What more can you ask for in an item!? The charging function of the Master Sword returns, yet is utterly revamped. Instead of holding B and charging, the player can point the controller (and thus Link's sword) to the sky and charge it. This allows a beam of light to shoot from the sword. By popular demand, a gizmo from Spirit Tracks makes its way into Skyward Sword. The simplistic, yet handy whip is to be one of the most essential items in the game. Additionally, there is no more pausing, selecting item, resuming type of gameplay. A new feature allows the protagonist to change on the go to create a more accelerated type of gaming.
The gameplay takes a serious turn for the better this time around. In every previous title, any type of terrain that wasn't flat turned out to be a serious P.I.T.A. Miyamoto has decided to open an ear to the vast expanse of players, and allowed Link to be more agile and nimble. When Link encounters vines/ledges, he will no longer painstakingly struggle to overcome the obstacle. Instead, champion will finally use his physical capabilities to leap/jump. Additionally, Link will have taken swimming lessons this time around, and will now actually be swift in waters. With all these changes to graphics, gameplay, and controls, this one feels that Skyward Sword was the real Wii title, and Twilight Princess was just to keep the public busy. Don't get me wrong though. Twilight Princess was still relatively satisfying.
The Master Sword comes back to play another mystical role. In this new installment, the Master Sword acts as a "gateway," much like Ocarina of Time. The general synopsis is that Link lives in a city of clouds known as Skyloft. Upon discovering the Skyward Sword, Link ends up in the land of Hyrule, infested with evil. Link's adventure also entails a search for a lost friend. The Skyward Sword, which later becomes the Master Sword, will act as the catalyst to bring Link between the two worlds. In an artwork revealed at E3 2009, Link is seen standing with his back towards what seems to be a blue female figure. She, or rather it as Miyamoto claims it is genderless, is actually the Master Sword itself. To substitute the lack of a Navi-type figure in this game, the Master Sword acts as the guide for Link. In the artwork, it shows Link without a sword, which led many to assume that the figure is the Master Sword.
Finally, let's talk timeline. Synonymous to Legend of Zelda is its very confusing order of games. People argue that Wind Waker is the last game, Ocarina of Time is the first, yada yada. But Miyamoto and the team have revealed that Skyward Sword will be, and is, the FIRST in the timeline. No more shall gamers claim that Ocarina of Time or some other title was the beginning for the series. And to this, we owe Miyamoto for finally solving the issue. What is interesting, though, is that the head developers of the series indeed do have a "master timeline." It is a top-secret document, which even those with some authority do not have access to. The funny thing is, I'm being completely serious. It makes sense though, that they'd keep it a secret. This allows them to release games without being raged at by fans.
As with every game that I blog about, here is a trailer. This one was featured at E3 2010!
Probably the most popular FPS title currently on the market, yet another Call of Duty is being released. Activision is highly praised for the success of the title, and continue to release other games relative to it. With decent success from Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, the second installment of Modern Warfare was able to attract both FPS and non-FPS players alike, and definitely made a significant impact on the future of FPS games. Currently, the next title to be released on Nov. 9 is Call of Duty: Black Ops. Many have already reserved this game, and many more will rush to opening night to make sure they play it asap.
The title of this blog is significant. The reason being is that Black Ops isn't being developed by Infinity Ward, the company that is responsible for creating the popular Modern Warfare titles for the PS3 and Xbox 360. Because of the strife that occurred between Infinity Ward and Activision, the new developer is now Treyarch. Now, don't get me wrong. I honestly don't know too much about Treyarch. They have developed games such as Spiderman 3, Quantum Solace, and a plethora of other Call of Duty games already. But the most popular CoD games were developed by Infinity Ward, so it may end up disappointing a few players. Can't tell yet though.
An interesting aspect which I've noticed is that Black Ops will be released in 3D. That's right ladies and gents. 3D. The awe inspiring, multi-dimensional video effect that some movies refuse to let go is now a part of video gaming. Keep in mind however, that barely any games have been released in a 3D aspect to date. And you ask why might this be an issue. While the graphics may easily surpass those of the other games simply by tacking on this new feature, this presents a significant problem. This is a game. The ability to play this game in 3D may hinder several things. As this is a shooting game, it is essential to have quick reaction, good depth perception, and keen awareness. I believe 3D gaming can easily throw off the depth perception we are so used to from flat-screen gaming. This in effect cripples reaction time. And every player knows that quick reactions are essential in being successful while engaging in a FPS match. Additionally, you may be distracted by the 3D aspect; while you look at the pretty scenery, the enemy comes around the corner and just stabs you. Irritated? Probably.
Also keep in mind you have to wear something on your face while you play. Problem? You wear glasses and cannot put them on your face. No? Then are you sure you want to have that on while you're playing a video game? I sure as hell do not. I'm talking about the ever SO popular 3D glasses. These are definitely the top line of fashion right now.
As said before, Black Ops is being developed by Treyarch. This will be their first Call of Duty title that doesn't revolve around the atmosphere of WWII. As a result, this means the game is somewhat out of their comfort zone. The campaign mode of Modern Warfare 2 was really something else. I'm not much of a person who loves FPS story lines. But this one really got to me. I actually thoroughly enjoyed the short, but entertained hours I put into finishing the campaign mode. No characters from Modern Warfare 2 will be returning to this installment. Co-Op missions will be making another appearance however, so grab that buddy and get rollin'! Co-Op missions will include 4 zombie maps, so expect to expend many hours into this one aspect of the game. Zombie mode (Nazi Zombies) was extremely popular in the World at War title.
And who can leave out the two best parts of playing CoD: Multiplayer systems and weapons! This installment will harness the WiFi multiplayer aspect once again, so you can play with that friend who moved from Florida to Ontario. Or from Jersey to Cali. There are currently eight different maps set for release, which will most likely be followed by a "Stimulus Package" much as Modern Warfare two had. Team Deathmatch, Capture the Flag, etc. will also be available for play. However, this time around, the bonuses you receive for headshots and multi-kills will be added to the team score. Levels also return, capped at 50 in addition to Prestige Mode. Here are a list of new features in Black Ops:
-CoD Points: a currency system added to the title. You can buy weapons, attachments, and contracts using this currency.
-Contracts: This is somewhat of like an investment program. You buy a contract, finish the objective that is given to you, and get rewarded with more CoD points (more than you used to by the contract in the first place).
-Wager Matches: You can gamble away your CoD points in a match. The top 3 winners ONLY will be awarded points from the pool, and the others will have to play another match in an effort to regain that of which was lost.
-Create A Class: This interface has greatly changed. You can see the alterations you make to your character, and the system has become significantly more detailed. It'll probably feel like you're making a character for an RPG.
Many favorite weapons will make a return. Some of these weapons include the FAL, MP5K, Dragonuv, Model 1887, and RPG-7. Some new weapons that caught my eye were the Tomahawk (the throwing knife seems to have made a return as the Ballistic Knife), Nova Gas (seems like a stun grenade with a damaging factor as well), Crossbow, and yet another Rocket Launcher known as the Grim Reaper. Be prepared to have very overpowered weapons floating around in the game.
So these are what the new Call of Duty: Black Ops game will entail. Are you ready? You may want to brush up on your CoD skills before you play Black Ops!!
Next time: The new Legend of Zelda Title - Skyward Sword.
Hello there, and welcome to a world of games of the future. As most, if not all, of us know, gaming has become the biggest source of entertainment. It is available almost anywhere, and can keep you busy for hours upon hours. That painstaking wait for that game which you have been waiting for is drawing closer, and the anticipation is palpable. You know you will rush to the store on opening night to ensure a copy is safely within the security of your hands. And yet, what better way for you to know about the game that you're dying to play than doing the research. And here's the exciting part: I do all of the research for you.And of course, what better way to celebrate the birth of a simpler way of garnering information than to appeal to the most popular game still played: World of Warcraft.
Blizzard, the company responsible for World of Warcraft (by far the most successful MMORPG as of 2010) has crafted yet another spectacle. A lore-rich, ground shattering (literally), and overhauling expansion is being added to the World of Warcraft title. Achieving 12 million subscribers within nearly 6 years, this will be World of Warcraft's third expansion. The first expansion known as the Burning Crusade, TBC for short, explored an entire world different from Azeroth. This place dealt with many characters that were pivotal in the history of the world...of Warcraft. The magical tower of Medivh (Karazhan), the trolls of the Amani tribe, the dubious pawns of Illidan (Lady Vashj, and ever so popular Kael'Thas, as well as Illidan himself), and the Eredar master of the Burning Legion (Kil'Jaeden) were all encounters that were available to the dedicated raiders. However, seldom did casual players ever hope to get through the tower of the magus. As a result, the forums were ablaze with players raging about difficulty.
Fast forward a few years. It should be noted that Blizzard has a tendency to do what most other companies don't: they listen to their customers. In 2008, Blizzard released Wrath of the Lich King, complete with appeal to both casual and committed players. The difficulty level decreased dramatically, and players rushed to be the first 80's in the world, in an effort to become the holder of a new feature: Achievements. Throughout the expansion, Blizzard continued to listen to the players. Too difficult, too easy, too overpowered, too weak? No problem. Blizzard handled that. Numerous popular features were added during the ensuing years: dungeon finder, heirlooms, etc. Even a new class, the Death Knight, was released. And in 2010, one of the well-known villains in gaming became available to overcome. The Lich King, the final boss of Icecrown Citadel, was released.
And then, Cataclysm came to light, officially announced to release in December. Just in time for the holidays! As we draw closer to Cataclysm, the news just keeps piling on top of each other. Here are a few pivotal highlights of the upcoming expansion:
-New races for the Alliance and Horde: Worgen and Goblin, respectively.
-The world is torn apart, and many zones have changed. Quests, terrain, and even previous dungeons have been altered to meet the apocalypse...I mean cataclysm.
-Humans can now be hunters, what the hell? That's right, new class combinations.
-The level cap has been raised by 5 this time around, not by 10. For those of you who can't do math, that caps at 85.
-New zones, new dungeons, new raids. The usual with a new expansion.
-Flight in Azeroth. Prepare to get ganked and take forever to finish questing.
-Talent trees have been entirely revamped. No more BS "Arms Specced Tanks." At least, I hope not.
-Reforging, which allows you to change the useless stats of your gear into something that will actually help you. No more feral druids with 20% extra hit chance, instead of 9% (the "cap" in WotLK)
-Other less important, but still relatively significant changes include: badge conversion to justice points, new profession, guild system, and reclaiming of the Gnome city known as Gnomeregan.
Hmm? What's that? Oh right. I forgot. Get ready for Deathwing! Epic fight against the Dragon Aspect, the catalyst for the crumbling of Azeroth. It should be noted Deathwing's story is one of the most enriched lore currently known. Not even the Lich King can best Neltharion when it comes to lore. And he is gargantuan! The above posted picture is of Deathwing himself, ready to smite the races of Azeroth who are no bigger to him than a tenth of one of his legs. Some of the previously mentioned changes have already been released to the world via patch 4.0.1. Reforging, revamped talent trees, and patch download process changes have become available. With all these changes, I think Cataclysm will manage to keep some of its 12 million subscribers or so busy for a while. Can't forget about the Maelstrom either. Here's a picture of the activities at the Maelstrom, taken in the PTR for Cataclysm.
Oh right. Another thing. This makes the entire expansion worth buying, by the way. Heroic Deadmines. It's about time. I've been requesting that for years! And don't forget about heroic Hogger! Anyone else? No? Aww man....
As a final treat, here's the official cinematic trailer for Cataclysm. As icy cold as the cinematic for WotLK was, this one converges around blazing fires. And isn't he mad? Why you mad?
The next shall deal with another popular title: Call of Duty. FPS lovers, get ready for Black Ops!!
Little Big Planet is very intriguing in its gameplay. It revolves around platformed puzzle-solving, and situations created by a third party. Whilst the game is a side-scroller, it is in no way outdated. It should be noted this side scrolling game makes use of 3D aspects. You can move to the forefront, middle, or background of the platform. Sackboy, our wondrously small hero, embarks on an epic quest to collect stickers, find important people, and do battle with a lonely "Collector."Although the atmosphere may feel a little childish, it feels a lot more happy than immature. In fact, playing the game always seemed to brighten my days significantly. One of the main reasons Little Big Planet was able to garnish such positive reviews was because of its utilization of third party aspects. More specifically, other gamers. Media Molecule, the developers of LBP, granted power to gamers by allowing them to create levels. This became a large aspect of the game: to create your own levels, and enjoy the works of others. Little Big Planet managed to set the standards for games on the PS3 platform.
I'm afraid I must begin with some bad news. Most, if not all of you probably already know, LBP 2 has been delayed to January of 2011 *insert sadface here*. Probably one of the biggest things to look forward to is more, yes even more, variety. Players will now have even more control of the levels they create. This, in turn, means more creative, expansive levels created by the very gamers who enjoy the game. An added feature to the level-creating system allows the player to create genres inside of LBP. For example, you can create a racing level, or role-playing levels. Creators can choose to manipulate the camera, add in cutscenes (okay, now THAT is utterly BADASS!!!!), record personal sound effects, put in their favorite music, and connect multiple levels together to create a marathon. More chances to make Sackboy look the way you want him too as well. Heck, make him a ninja! Talk about power to the gamers!
