Our latest game previews - General
1 month ago - 
Injustice: Gods Among Us
Injustice: Gods Among Us, the upcoming DC fighting game by NetherRealm Studios, is set to be released on April 16th. Even though the release date is just around the corner, they continue to announce additional characters that will be playable upon release, as well as alternate costumes for numerous characters, which look spectacular. Adam Urbano, Senior Producer at NetherRealm Studios, came to Toronto to give us a look at Injustice: Gods Among Us. However, an error with the game’s...
Injustice: Gods Among UsInjustice: Gods Among Us, the upcoming DC fighting game by NetherRealm Studios, is set to be released on April 16th. Even though the release date is just around the corner, they continue to announce additional characters that will be playable upon release, as well as alternate costumes for numerous characters, which look spectacular. Adam Urbano, Senior Producer at NetherRealm Studios, came to Toronto to give us a look at Injustice: Gods Among Us. However, an error with the game’s...
3 months ago - Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance
Shortly after my sweaty paws laid down the PS3 controller at the conclusion of my hands-on gameplay preview of a final build of Metal Gear Rising Revengeance, I knew that in order to write this piece there was one thing I absolutely needed to do. I headed home, scanned the bookshelf for a thesaurus, and leafed through to the E’s hoping I could find a bounty of words I could use interchangeably with “eviscerate”. Hack, stab, and slash just don’t convey the sword...
Metal Gear Rising: RevengeanceShortly after my sweaty paws laid down the PS3 controller at the conclusion of my hands-on gameplay preview of a final build of Metal Gear Rising Revengeance, I knew that in order to write this piece there was one thing I absolutely needed to do. I headed home, scanned the bookshelf for a thesaurus, and leafed through to the E’s hoping I could find a bounty of words I could use interchangeably with “eviscerate”. Hack, stab, and slash just don’t convey the sword...
11 months ago - 
Metro: Last Light
THQ may not have had the big flashy booth this year, but they were still present at the show with a few gems in tow. Metro Last Light was on hand, and after my quick hands-off demo, it was obvious that this entry is getting a lot more love than the last one. The section of the game we were taken through included a dilapidated subway tunnel, as well as some of the above ground locales. This is where I would talk about the post apocalyptic nature of the environment, but developer 4A Games made...
Metro: Last LightTHQ may not have had the big flashy booth this year, but they were still present at the show with a few gems in tow. Metro Last Light was on hand, and after my quick hands-off demo, it was obvious that this entry is getting a lot more love than the last one. The section of the game we were taken through included a dilapidated subway tunnel, as well as some of the above ground locales. This is where I would talk about the post apocalyptic nature of the environment, but developer 4A Games made...
11 months ago - Brave
While wandering through the Disney booth, Brave caught my eye. Not just because of the nifty movie-themed set-up they had (although it was pretty cool looking), but also because as a parent, the game tie-in is an important part of the Brave equation. We will see the film, that’s a gimme, but being able to extend on our two hours of Hollywood entertainment with a more hands-on experience in the form of a video game adaptation completes the package. However, film-to-game crossovers are...
BraveWhile wandering through the Disney booth, Brave caught my eye. Not just because of the nifty movie-themed set-up they had (although it was pretty cool looking), but also because as a parent, the game tie-in is an important part of the Brave equation. We will see the film, that’s a gimme, but being able to extend on our two hours of Hollywood entertainment with a more hands-on experience in the form of a video game adaptation completes the package. However, film-to-game crossovers are...
1 year ago - Far Cry 3
Fans of shooters are rarely indifferent when it comes to the Far Cry series. Shown for the first time at E3 2011, the all-too-short presentation of Far Cry 3 left us with more questions than answers. With an open mind and and a thirst for information about the project, we head up to Ubisoft Montreal hoping to discover a bit more about what we should expect from the third entry in the Far Cry franchise, which still has quite a bit of development ahead of it. After a few warnings, reminding us...
Far Cry 3Fans of shooters are rarely indifferent when it comes to the Far Cry series. Shown for the first time at E3 2011, the all-too-short presentation of Far Cry 3 left us with more questions than answers. With an open mind and and a thirst for information about the project, we head up to Ubisoft Montreal hoping to discover a bit more about what we should expect from the third entry in the Far Cry franchise, which still has quite a bit of development ahead of it. After a few warnings, reminding us...
1 year ago - Ghost Recon: Future Soldier
When Ghost Recon: Future Soldier was announced by Ubisoft back at the beginning of 2009, Tom Clancy fans began to gasp. They were already gearing up for the then soon-to-be-released Splinter Cell: Conviction, so having another entry on the Ghost Recon franchise was part two of Ubi’s stealthy/shooting-trifecta (with Rainbow 6 being the third piece of the puzzle). It had been two years since Advanced Warfighter 2, so gamers everywhere were more than ready to jump back into the boots of...
Ghost Recon: Future SoldierWhen Ghost Recon: Future Soldier was announced by Ubisoft back at the beginning of 2009, Tom Clancy fans began to gasp. They were already gearing up for the then soon-to-be-released Splinter Cell: Conviction, so having another entry on the Ghost Recon franchise was part two of Ubi’s stealthy/shooting-trifecta (with Rainbow 6 being the third piece of the puzzle). It had been two years since Advanced Warfighter 2, so gamers everywhere were more than ready to jump back into the boots of...
1 year ago - Darksiders II
Death. The Pale Rider. The Reaper of Souls. Arguably the most famous, and most omnipotent, of the Four Horseman. No matter what belief system you look at, Death is always present. He is the end. The final destination. Everything that lives must eventually die, and the one who dons Death’s mask will be there waiting to reap the soul of the recently deceased. And after seeing Vigil Games’ interpertation of the mythical figure at a recent Darksiders II press event in San Francisco,...
Darksiders IIDeath. The Pale Rider. The Reaper of Souls. Arguably the most famous, and most omnipotent, of the Four Horseman. No matter what belief system you look at, Death is always present. He is the end. The final destination. Everything that lives must eventually die, and the one who dons Death’s mask will be there waiting to reap the soul of the recently deceased. And after seeing Vigil Games’ interpertation of the mythical figure at a recent Darksiders II press event in San Francisco,...
1 year ago - UFC Undisputed 3
Last week I got to take a look at one of my most anticipated games of 2012, UFC Undisputed 3. Though the game is merely a month away from release, this was the first time I was able to try my hand at THQ’s latest entry in the MMA fold. While I didn’t get to spend as long as I wanted to with UFC Undisputed 3, I did manage to spend quite a bit of time with the revamped career mode. Despite only getting a mere taste of what the full game has to offer, what I saw showed lots of...
UFC Undisputed 3Last week I got to take a look at one of my most anticipated games of 2012, UFC Undisputed 3. Though the game is merely a month away from release, this was the first time I was able to try my hand at THQ’s latest entry in the MMA fold. While I didn’t get to spend as long as I wanted to with UFC Undisputed 3, I did manage to spend quite a bit of time with the revamped career mode. Despite only getting a mere taste of what the full game has to offer, what I saw showed lots of...
1 year ago - BioShock Infinite
One of my favorite franchises of this console cycle is BioShock. The world it exposed me to was nothing short of wondrous. It wasn’t about Andrew Ryan. It wasn’t about the various Splicers. It wasn’t even about the different versions of Big Daddy. It was the city of Rapture itself. Rapture was just as much of a character to me as any person who made the city their home. The stepping back in time, traveling to what was almost an alternate future/past, and the design itself...
BioShock InfiniteOne of my favorite franchises of this console cycle is BioShock. The world it exposed me to was nothing short of wondrous. It wasn’t about Andrew Ryan. It wasn’t about the various Splicers. It wasn’t even about the different versions of Big Daddy. It was the city of Rapture itself. Rapture was just as much of a character to me as any person who made the city their home. The stepping back in time, traveling to what was almost an alternate future/past, and the design itself...
1 year ago - Rage
With RAGE being so close to launch (at the time, it was still slated for September, although now the release date has since slid into October), we walked into the Bethesda booth at E3 both curious and excited. Without having an opportunity to actually play the game up until this point (last year at E3 it was only available as a hands-off demo), we wanted more than ever to pick up the controller and feel the vibe id’s latest creation was going bring once it hit store shelves. So the...
RageWith RAGE being so close to launch (at the time, it was still slated for September, although now the release date has since slid into October), we walked into the Bethesda booth at E3 both curious and excited. Without having an opportunity to actually play the game up until this point (last year at E3 it was only available as a hands-off demo), we wanted more than ever to pick up the controller and feel the vibe id’s latest creation was going bring once it hit store shelves. So the...
1 year ago - 
Risen 2 : Dark Waters
Most RPGs nowadays are set with the same old themes, whether it’s ancient times with a sword and shield or shot into space with futuristic guns and weapons. In comes Risen 2: Dark Waters, which hopes to shake up the genre with a unique pirate RPG set in lush jungles with a colorful atmosphere. During E3 we had the chance to sit down with members of the development team to see how the game is progressing. At the end of Risen, the Inquisitor was defeated, the Titans’ power was...
Risen 2 : Dark WatersMost RPGs nowadays are set with the same old themes, whether it’s ancient times with a sword and shield or shot into space with futuristic guns and weapons. In comes Risen 2: Dark Waters, which hopes to shake up the genre with a unique pirate RPG set in lush jungles with a colorful atmosphere. During E3 we had the chance to sit down with members of the development team to see how the game is progressing. At the end of Risen, the Inquisitor was defeated, the Titans’ power was...
1 year ago - Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3
Regardless of all the various “leaks” that have surfaced since its May 13th reveal, I still roamed the gaming landscaping knowing next to nothing about what Infinity Ward has lined up for us in their upcoming Modern Warfare 3. I was actually one of the few who not only disregarded the “leaked” info, but I (along with our EIC Jay Acevedo) refused to report on said leaks nor did I read any of the articles that did cover it. Simply put, I wanted official information or...
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3Regardless of all the various “leaks” that have surfaced since its May 13th reveal, I still roamed the gaming landscaping knowing next to nothing about what Infinity Ward has lined up for us in their upcoming Modern Warfare 3. I was actually one of the few who not only disregarded the “leaked” info, but I (along with our EIC Jay Acevedo) refused to report on said leaks nor did I read any of the articles that did cover it. Simply put, I wanted official information or...
1 year ago - Sonic Generations
Oh Sonic, how I’ve missed you! You defined part of my childhood right next to Mario. Yet somewhere along the way you changed, went through a dark phase, and became a stranger to me. With Sonic Generations, Sega hopes to pull in jaded gamers like myself who miss the old school 2D Sonic from the Genesis era, in addition to fans of the hedgehog’s recent adventures. During E3, Sega had 3D-enabled demo kiosks setup for Sonic Generations and despite some technical hiccups, I got a...
Sonic GenerationsOh Sonic, how I’ve missed you! You defined part of my childhood right next to Mario. Yet somewhere along the way you changed, went through a dark phase, and became a stranger to me. With Sonic Generations, Sega hopes to pull in jaded gamers like myself who miss the old school 2D Sonic from the Genesis era, in addition to fans of the hedgehog’s recent adventures. During E3, Sega had 3D-enabled demo kiosks setup for Sonic Generations and despite some technical hiccups, I got a...
1 year ago - (XBLA) Bastion
For the past few years, Microsoft’s Summer of Arcade promotion has introduced gamers to action packed titles like Trials HD and Shadow Complex, which are some of the best to be found Xbox Live Arcade. However, my favorite part of these promotions are discovering unique gems like Braid and Limbo that surprise with their artistic styles and unique gameplay. Based on my time with Bastion during E3 last week, it looks to become one of the most distinct titles on XBLA. Bastion features...
(XBLA) BastionFor the past few years, Microsoft’s Summer of Arcade promotion has introduced gamers to action packed titles like Trials HD and Shadow Complex, which are some of the best to be found Xbox Live Arcade. However, my favorite part of these promotions are discovering unique gems like Braid and Limbo that surprise with their artistic styles and unique gameplay. Based on my time with Bastion during E3 last week, it looks to become one of the most distinct titles on XBLA. Bastion features...
1 year ago - 
FIFA 12
Konami made a smart move by releasing its popular Pro Evolution Soccer game as part of the Nintendo 3DS’ launch schedule. It was the first soccer game on the market for the new portable console and one of the few stand-out titles available. With this early lead, the pressure is now on EA Sports to deliver their long-running series on the 3DS. I had the chance to sample FIFA 12 3DS briefly at E3. Although clearly still early in development, for soccer fans who enjoy playing the game on...
FIFA 12Konami made a smart move by releasing its popular Pro Evolution Soccer game as part of the Nintendo 3DS’ launch schedule. It was the first soccer game on the market for the new portable console and one of the few stand-out titles available. With this early lead, the pressure is now on EA Sports to deliver their long-running series on the 3DS. I had the chance to sample FIFA 12 3DS briefly at E3. Although clearly still early in development, for soccer fans who enjoy playing the game on...
1 year ago - Metro: Last Light
I think I am one of the few people to have completed Metro 2033. Yes, it had it’s fair share of problems, but it also took chances and would have fared significantly better had publisher THQ marketed the game better. To my surprise, a follow-up, Metro: Last Light, is scheduled to hit all major consoles in 2012 and I had the opportunity to see the game in a brief presentation at E3. Although we were only given a minor snippet of what to expect, the early look is quite positive. Metro:...
Metro: Last LightI think I am one of the few people to have completed Metro 2033. Yes, it had it’s fair share of problems, but it also took chances and would have fared significantly better had publisher THQ marketed the game better. To my surprise, a follow-up, Metro: Last Light, is scheduled to hit all major consoles in 2012 and I had the opportunity to see the game in a brief presentation at E3. Although we were only given a minor snippet of what to expect, the early look is quite positive. Metro:...
1 year ago - NHL 12
EA Sports is continuing to evolve their sports franchises in a number of different ways. The most prevalent is the addition of a more realistic approach towards each sport offering. This is very clear from the moment you start playing NHL 12, which both improves its realism from a broadcast perspective and the product on the ice. I had the chance to play a bit of the game at E3 and it’s shaping up to be yet another strong release from their Vancouver-based studio. The demo gave us the...
NHL 12EA Sports is continuing to evolve their sports franchises in a number of different ways. The most prevalent is the addition of a more realistic approach towards each sport offering. This is very clear from the moment you start playing NHL 12, which both improves its realism from a broadcast perspective and the product on the ice. I had the chance to play a bit of the game at E3 and it’s shaping up to be yet another strong release from their Vancouver-based studio. The demo gave us the...
1 year ago - StarFox 64 3DS
I remember back in my youth, heading over to my friend’s house and playing the original Star Fox on his SNES. Since then, I haven’t touched the series, but when I got my hands on the upcoming 3DS game Star Fox 64 3D, a number of different emotions came flowing through. Even though the E3 sampling was only a small morsel of what is promised, fans of the series should be quite thrilled when it finally hit stores. At E3, they had booths that offered both single-player and...
StarFox 64 3DSI remember back in my youth, heading over to my friend’s house and playing the original Star Fox on his SNES. Since then, I haven’t touched the series, but when I got my hands on the upcoming 3DS game Star Fox 64 3D, a number of different emotions came flowing through. Even though the E3 sampling was only a small morsel of what is promised, fans of the series should be quite thrilled when it finally hit stores. At E3, they had booths that offered both single-player and...
1 year ago - (XBLA) Orcs Must Die!
After being converted into a big fan of tower defense games over the past few years with Plants vs Zombies, Toy Soldiers, Defense Grid: The Awakening, and many more, the announcement of Orcs Must Die! months ago had my gaming senses tingling. Robot Entertainment’s Orcs Must Die! was playable on the E3 show floor and the developer kindly walked us through the demo of this new take on the genre. Orcs Must Die! is a mixture of tower defense and action genres with a touch of role playing...
(XBLA) Orcs Must Die!After being converted into a big fan of tower defense games over the past few years with Plants vs Zombies, Toy Soldiers, Defense Grid: The Awakening, and many more, the announcement of Orcs Must Die! months ago had my gaming senses tingling. Robot Entertainment’s Orcs Must Die! was playable on the E3 show floor and the developer kindly walked us through the demo of this new take on the genre. Orcs Must Die! is a mixture of tower defense and action genres with a touch of role playing...
1 year ago - (XBLA) Toy Soldiers: Cold War
Toy Soldiers: Cold War jumps forward in time, ditching World War I in favor of the Cold War. What it maintains is the adorable, seemingly self-made battlefields, albeit with more advanced technology for the United States and USSR armies. Players buy units to protect the toy box from encroaching enemies. For each kill, money is earned, which can be used to purchase more forces or upgrade existing ones. What sets the franchise apart is that gamers can get their hands dirty by stepping into...
(XBLA) Toy Soldiers: Cold WarToy Soldiers: Cold War jumps forward in time, ditching World War I in favor of the Cold War. What it maintains is the adorable, seemingly self-made battlefields, albeit with more advanced technology for the United States and USSR armies. Players buy units to protect the toy box from encroaching enemies. For each kill, money is earned, which can be used to purchase more forces or upgrade existing ones. What sets the franchise apart is that gamers can get their hands dirty by stepping into...
1 year ago - Mass Effect 3
Million of units sold worldwide, a memorable hero, a rich cast of supporting characters, numerous awards and universal gamer acclaim. To Mass Effect fans, this sci-fi space opera is just as great as Star Wars or Star Trek. At least, it is for me. Travelling to distant worlds and building key alliances, among other things, while saving the galaxy and fighting for freedom...all are ingredients for success, provided it’s done right. And BioWare’s dedication to deliver the best gaming...
Mass Effect 3Million of units sold worldwide, a memorable hero, a rich cast of supporting characters, numerous awards and universal gamer acclaim. To Mass Effect fans, this sci-fi space opera is just as great as Star Wars or Star Trek. At least, it is for me. Travelling to distant worlds and building key alliances, among other things, while saving the galaxy and fighting for freedom...all are ingredients for success, provided it’s done right. And BioWare’s dedication to deliver the best gaming...
1 year ago - Batman: Arkham City
In 2009, Batman: Arkham Asylum surprised many people and managed to swoop in and take numerous Game of the Year Awards from different publications, including our own. With the follow-up, Batman: Arkham City, scheduled to release later this year, we had the chance to watch a demonstration of the game that showcased a bit of the combat Batman will encounter, the look of Gotham City and of course, the inclusion of Ms Feisty Pants herself, Catwoman. For starters, Arkham City promises to be a...
Batman: Arkham CityIn 2009, Batman: Arkham Asylum surprised many people and managed to swoop in and take numerous Game of the Year Awards from different publications, including our own. With the follow-up, Batman: Arkham City, scheduled to release later this year, we had the chance to watch a demonstration of the game that showcased a bit of the combat Batman will encounter, the look of Gotham City and of course, the inclusion of Ms Feisty Pants herself, Catwoman. For starters, Arkham City promises to be a...
1 year ago - Far Cry 3
With so many first-person shooters going the scripted-action route, it’s nice when there are those that go in a different direction; or at the least offer a varying experience. UbiSoft Montreal revealed Far Cry 3 at E3 this year and after checking it out behind closed doors, it’s nice to see that the developers are offering up an open-world mentality with its upcoming shooter. Far Cry 3 has you taking control of Jason Brody, who is stranded in a unnamed South American country....
Far Cry 3With so many first-person shooters going the scripted-action route, it’s nice when there are those that go in a different direction; or at the least offer a varying experience. UbiSoft Montreal revealed Far Cry 3 at E3 this year and after checking it out behind closed doors, it’s nice to see that the developers are offering up an open-world mentality with its upcoming shooter. Far Cry 3 has you taking control of Jason Brody, who is stranded in a unnamed South American country....
1 year ago - Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary
When Halo CE debuted it proved that first-person shooters could work well on consoles. With that in mind, 343 Industries has maintained the classic gameplay by running two engines (the 2001 original and last year’s Halo: Reach) simultaneously. Remember how powerful the magnum was? It’s back along with the same physics and AI. What the dual-engines also means is that you can swap between the new HD graphics and “Classic Mode” by pressing a button on the fly, just like...
Halo: Combat Evolved AnniversaryWhen Halo CE debuted it proved that first-person shooters could work well on consoles. With that in mind, 343 Industries has maintained the classic gameplay by running two engines (the 2001 original and last year’s Halo: Reach) simultaneously. Remember how powerful the magnum was? It’s back along with the same physics and AI. What the dual-engines also means is that you can swap between the new HD graphics and “Classic Mode” by pressing a button on the fly, just like...
1 year ago - Saints Row: The Third
Since we last saw them, the Saints have catapulted into international celebrities with their own brand name (energy drinks, merchandise, etc.) and flocks of adoring fans. This time, they’ve jumped ship, leaving Stilwater for the lovely Steelport. There are still multiple gangs the Saints will take on, but the major opposing force is The Syndicate (whom is still in full control of Stilwater as well) that wants to further their dominance across the world. It’s like Biggie said...
Saints Row: The ThirdSince we last saw them, the Saints have catapulted into international celebrities with their own brand name (energy drinks, merchandise, etc.) and flocks of adoring fans. This time, they’ve jumped ship, leaving Stilwater for the lovely Steelport. There are still multiple gangs the Saints will take on, but the major opposing force is The Syndicate (whom is still in full control of Stilwater as well) that wants to further their dominance across the world. It’s like Biggie said...
1 year ago - Battlefield 3 (download Via EA Origin)
EA has a full portfolio set for later this year but Battlefield 3 leads the way with an intense and gorgeous single and multiplayer package. In their crowded E3 booth, EA was holding private multiplayer sessions of DICE’s latest game and we were there to take a look! DICE is hoping to build the best and most physical FPS this year when Batllefield 3 launches on October 25. The backbone of that goal is the new Frostbite 2 engine, described as next-generation technology for...
Battlefield 3 (download Via EA Origin)EA has a full portfolio set for later this year but Battlefield 3 leads the way with an intense and gorgeous single and multiplayer package. In their crowded E3 booth, EA was holding private multiplayer sessions of DICE’s latest game and we were there to take a look! DICE is hoping to build the best and most physical FPS this year when Batllefield 3 launches on October 25. The backbone of that goal is the new Frostbite 2 engine, described as next-generation technology for...
1 year ago - (Kinect) Rise of Nightmares
For all those complaining that there are no mature titles available for Microsoft’s Kinect, SEGA’s in-house studios might have what you need with their upcoming horror-film inspired Rise of Nightmares. After getting to spend a bit of time with the game, it certainly accomplishes the goal of being a mature Kinect game... The E3 demo of the game doesn’t divulge too much regarding the premise other than a small little clip before you begin playing. You find yourself held...
(Kinect) Rise of NightmaresFor all those complaining that there are no mature titles available for Microsoft’s Kinect, SEGA’s in-house studios might have what you need with their upcoming horror-film inspired Rise of Nightmares. After getting to spend a bit of time with the game, it certainly accomplishes the goal of being a mature Kinect game... The E3 demo of the game doesn’t divulge too much regarding the premise other than a small little clip before you begin playing. You find yourself held...
1 year ago - FIFA 12
I don’t hide the fact that I am a soccer fan. I am a season ticket holder of my local MLS side, I play the sport in real life and I always try to get my hands on any soccer video game release. Last year, EA Sports did a fantastic job with FIFA 11 and the pressure is on to keep up with the competition that’s hot on their heels with FIFA 12. Thanks to the introduction of their new player impact engine, precision dribbling and tactical defending, the virtual version of the...
FIFA 12I don’t hide the fact that I am a soccer fan. I am a season ticket holder of my local MLS side, I play the sport in real life and I always try to get my hands on any soccer video game release. Last year, EA Sports did a fantastic job with FIFA 11 and the pressure is on to keep up with the competition that’s hot on their heels with FIFA 12. Thanks to the introduction of their new player impact engine, precision dribbling and tactical defending, the virtual version of the...
1 year ago - The Darkness II
A couple of months ago at PAX East, David had a chance to preview The Darkness II; which had just been announced a few weeks prior. During E3, we received an updated look at the work in progress that is set two years after the events in The Darkness. Jackie Estacado returns in The Darkness II as the head of the Franchetti crime family. As our previous preview revealed (you can read it here) Jackie has some opposition from The Brotherhood and their leader Victor Valenti. They are trying to...
The Darkness IIA couple of months ago at PAX East, David had a chance to preview The Darkness II; which had just been announced a few weeks prior. During E3, we received an updated look at the work in progress that is set two years after the events in The Darkness. Jackie Estacado returns in The Darkness II as the head of the Franchetti crime family. As our previous preview revealed (you can read it here) Jackie has some opposition from The Brotherhood and their leader Victor Valenti. They are trying to...
1 year ago - XCOM
A lot of scrutiny was initially made when 2K Games decided to re-imagine the famed XCOM series, taking it from its roots as a strategy game to a first-person shooter. To some, this shift was only to appeal to a larger audience, rather than appeasing its loyal fan-base. After experiencing just a fraction of what developer 2K Marin has to offer, fans should put their worries aside and enjoy the ride. During this week’s E3 presentation, we were immediately shown some of the strategic...
XCOMA lot of scrutiny was initially made when 2K Games decided to re-imagine the famed XCOM series, taking it from its roots as a strategy game to a first-person shooter. To some, this shift was only to appeal to a larger audience, rather than appeasing its loyal fan-base. After experiencing just a fraction of what developer 2K Marin has to offer, fans should put their worries aside and enjoy the ride. During this week’s E3 presentation, we were immediately shown some of the strategic...
2 years ago - Red Faction Armageddon
Red Faction, as a franchise, is somewhat of a rarity these days. A series that made its debut during the last generation of consoles, spawned a lackluster sequel, then promptly disappeared only to make a dashing return almost two years ago to praise from critics and fans alike. While it was far from perfect, Red Faction Guerrilla basically reinvented the franchise, taking place on the surface of Mars (instead of the dark underground of its predecessors) and going with an almost open sandbox,...
Red Faction ArmageddonRed Faction, as a franchise, is somewhat of a rarity these days. A series that made its debut during the last generation of consoles, spawned a lackluster sequel, then promptly disappeared only to make a dashing return almost two years ago to praise from critics and fans alike. While it was far from perfect, Red Faction Guerrilla basically reinvented the franchise, taking place on the surface of Mars (instead of the dark underground of its predecessors) and going with an almost open sandbox,...
2 years ago - MX Vs ATV Alive
It can be quite a challenge to set subsequent releases of an annual franchise apart from each other. This is especially true with titles rooted in the sports genre. The core of the game rarely has much wiggle room for change and there’s only so many things that a developer can do to improve upon the experience. Take THQ’s MX vs ATV franchise as an example. Motocross is still motocross with each new rendition. With the latest version about to hit retail in less than a month, THQ...
MX Vs ATV AliveIt can be quite a challenge to set subsequent releases of an annual franchise apart from each other. This is especially true with titles rooted in the sports genre. The core of the game rarely has much wiggle room for change and there’s only so many things that a developer can do to improve upon the experience. Take THQ’s MX vs ATV franchise as an example. Motocross is still motocross with each new rendition. With the latest version about to hit retail in less than a month, THQ...
2 years ago - Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine
If there’s one title amongst THQ’s 2011 line-up that had my curiosity piqued the most, it’s Warhammer 40K: Space Marine. I mean, first you have the fact that it’s the 40K universe delving away from the RTS genre, something we haven’t really seen before. Second, out of Relic’s previous ten or twelve games, this will be only the second one to get a console release (The Outfit being the first). Compound that by the fact that I’ve only seen this one in...
Warhammer 40,000: Space MarineIf there’s one title amongst THQ’s 2011 line-up that had my curiosity piqued the most, it’s Warhammer 40K: Space Marine. I mean, first you have the fact that it’s the 40K universe delving away from the RTS genre, something we haven’t really seen before. Second, out of Relic’s previous ten or twelve games, this will be only the second one to get a console release (The Outfit being the first). Compound that by the fact that I’ve only seen this one in...
2 years ago - Section 8: Prejudice
When TimeGate Studio's released Section 8 back in 2009, it was applauded for its deep customization, nice graphics and audio along with a cool multiplayer experience. Yet, it was also bashed for its weak single-player campaign, levels that seemed too big and controls that weren't FPS friendly. With the follow-up, Section 8: Prejudice - expected to launch later this Spring - it seems that a number of issues have been addressed and if released at the right time, could be quite a hit. Prejudice...
Section 8: PrejudiceWhen TimeGate Studio's released Section 8 back in 2009, it was applauded for its deep customization, nice graphics and audio along with a cool multiplayer experience. Yet, it was also bashed for its weak single-player campaign, levels that seemed too big and controls that weren't FPS friendly. With the follow-up, Section 8: Prejudice - expected to launch later this Spring - it seems that a number of issues have been addressed and if released at the right time, could be quite a hit. Prejudice...
2 years ago - The Darkness II
Even though most of the folks pretty much knew that a sequel to 2007’s The Darkness comic book adaption was coming at some point or another, it still created quite a bit of buzz when 2K Games made it official last month. The first entry garnered some considerable love from mainstream critics and fans alike, so seeing the anti-hero Jackie Estacado don the tentacles for a second round holds a lot of promise. What was even better was that just a scant few weeks later, 2K let it be known...
The Darkness IIEven though most of the folks pretty much knew that a sequel to 2007’s The Darkness comic book adaption was coming at some point or another, it still created quite a bit of buzz when 2K Games made it official last month. The first entry garnered some considerable love from mainstream critics and fans alike, so seeing the anti-hero Jackie Estacado don the tentacles for a second round holds a lot of promise. What was even better was that just a scant few weeks later, 2K let it be known...
2 years ago - WWE All Stars
A few weeks back we had the privilege to be apart of THQ’s Gamers Event in New York City where, among several titles showcased, we gained a better look at their upcoming WWE arcade brawler, All Stars. During that visit to the Big Apple, we had quite an extensive play session with the title, absorbing all the slams, flying elbows and over-the-top signature moves the stylistic gameplay had to offer. However, we only had a portrion of the roster at our disposal and strictly the multiplayer...
WWE All StarsA few weeks back we had the privilege to be apart of THQ’s Gamers Event in New York City where, among several titles showcased, we gained a better look at their upcoming WWE arcade brawler, All Stars. During that visit to the Big Apple, we had quite an extensive play session with the title, absorbing all the slams, flying elbows and over-the-top signature moves the stylistic gameplay had to offer. However, we only had a portrion of the roster at our disposal and strictly the multiplayer...
2 years ago - L.A. Noire
Cole Phelps slowly pulls up to the alley that’s been cordoned off by the patrolmen. He exits the car, but his new partner Rusty Galloway isn’t done giving him an earful just yet. Phelps is sure this is yet another murder by the Black Dahlia killer, though Galloway isn’t convinced and as the veteran officer on the case, he’s making sure his opinion is heard. It’s nearly midday, and whatever shadows are being cast completely miss the disfigured body hidden off the...
L.A. NoireCole Phelps slowly pulls up to the alley that’s been cordoned off by the patrolmen. He exits the car, but his new partner Rusty Galloway isn’t done giving him an earful just yet. Phelps is sure this is yet another murder by the Black Dahlia killer, though Galloway isn’t convinced and as the veteran officer on the case, he’s making sure his opinion is heard. It’s nearly midday, and whatever shadows are being cast completely miss the disfigured body hidden off the...
2 years ago - 
Skylanders: Spyro's Adventure
Toy Fair International is the place where the year really begins for the toy industry. Typically, you don’t see very many video games on the show floor, but this year Activision was on hand with a new title they’re hoping will start a new trend in gaming and toys. Utilizing collectible figures that interact with the game, Activision is betting that Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure is a package that will be irresistible to children, and start a new trend that could potentially...
Skylanders: Spyro's AdventureToy Fair International is the place where the year really begins for the toy industry. Typically, you don’t see very many video games on the show floor, but this year Activision was on hand with a new title they’re hoping will start a new trend in gaming and toys. Utilizing collectible figures that interact with the game, Activision is betting that Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure is a package that will be irresistible to children, and start a new trend that could potentially...
2 years ago - World of Tanks
As the name implies, it’s all about tanks and artillery in Wargaming.net’s World of Tanks. WoT features large, 15 vs. 15 player battles on a variety of maps which range from the desert to urban warfare on the western front. I spent a fair amount of time between closed beta and now in open beta trying out the various armour of the Russian, German, and American forces. Each have their strengths and weaknesses, mobility, guns, and defensive capabilities which takes some thought as...
World of TanksAs the name implies, it’s all about tanks and artillery in Wargaming.net’s World of Tanks. WoT features large, 15 vs. 15 player battles on a variety of maps which range from the desert to urban warfare on the western front. I spent a fair amount of time between closed beta and now in open beta trying out the various armour of the Russian, German, and American forces. Each have their strengths and weaknesses, mobility, guns, and defensive capabilities which takes some thought as...
2 years ago - MotorStorm: Apocalypse
Regardless of your affinity for the racing genre, the biggest challenge for any game's success is innovation and longevity. For the Motorstorm series, the reason it has been so popular has been its stunning visuals and frantic racing options. After spending some time with the upcoming Motorstorm Apocalypse, it still has the same feel of the previous games which should continue to satisfy long time fans. At the same time, small touches here and there could be what the series needs to entice...
MotorStorm: ApocalypseRegardless of your affinity for the racing genre, the biggest challenge for any game's success is innovation and longevity. For the Motorstorm series, the reason it has been so popular has been its stunning visuals and frantic racing options. After spending some time with the upcoming Motorstorm Apocalypse, it still has the same feel of the previous games which should continue to satisfy long time fans. At the same time, small touches here and there could be what the series needs to entice...
2 years ago - Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II - Retribution
One of my personal surprises of 2010 was THQ and Relic’s stand-alone expansion to Dawn of War II, entitled Chaos Rising. Relic Entertainment did a great job of satisfying fans of the series and allowing newcomers the same ability to jump-in and play without having to know too much of the previous edition’s back story. A year later, we are rapidly approaching the release of the 2nd expansion and another stand-alone offering, Retribution. With it expected to hit your PC on March...
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II - RetributionOne of my personal surprises of 2010 was THQ and Relic’s stand-alone expansion to Dawn of War II, entitled Chaos Rising. Relic Entertainment did a great job of satisfying fans of the series and allowing newcomers the same ability to jump-in and play without having to know too much of the previous edition’s back story. A year later, we are rapidly approaching the release of the 2nd expansion and another stand-alone offering, Retribution. With it expected to hit your PC on March...
2 years ago - Homefront
One of the scariest thoughts for any patriotic person is to have their home turf invaded. While the closest modern Americans have had is via film (read: Red Dawn), other nations are dealing with it on a daily basis. Considering the US hasn’t had to witness it first hand since the Revolutionary War, it comes as little surprise to fine Kaos Studios - the guys behind Frontlines, one of my favorite shooters in recent years - is exploring such a concept with their next title, Homefront. At...
HomefrontOne of the scariest thoughts for any patriotic person is to have their home turf invaded. While the closest modern Americans have had is via film (read: Red Dawn), other nations are dealing with it on a daily basis. Considering the US hasn’t had to witness it first hand since the Revolutionary War, it comes as little surprise to fine Kaos Studios - the guys behind Frontlines, one of my favorite shooters in recent years - is exploring such a concept with their next title, Homefront. At...
2 years ago - WWE All Stars
Regardless of which era, ask any WWE (or WWF depending on how far back you go) fan about their most cherished memories of the venerable Sports Entertainment brand and you’ll find they come in the form of high flying acts, crushing blows, and utterly crazy stunts. The day-to-day storylines end up being cannon fodder, as hindsight skims them over, relegating them as nothing more than bridges between one outrageous spectacle and the next. Undertaker tossing Mankind off the Hell in a Cell,...
WWE All StarsRegardless of which era, ask any WWE (or WWF depending on how far back you go) fan about their most cherished memories of the venerable Sports Entertainment brand and you’ll find they come in the form of high flying acts, crushing blows, and utterly crazy stunts. The day-to-day storylines end up being cannon fodder, as hindsight skims them over, relegating them as nothing more than bridges between one outrageous spectacle and the next. Undertaker tossing Mankind off the Hell in a Cell,...
2 years ago - (XBLA) Stacking
To see Double Fine pull away from the retail world and venture into the downloadable realm was a bit concerning for me. Don’t get me wrong, I had no doubts about the talent on the roster. I just felt like it was a bit of a step back and didn’t want the less-than-optimal performance of Brutal Legend causing any lasting stigmas. However, after announcing their two-game deal with publisher THQ and then finally getting some hands-on time with Costume Quest, my position began to change...
(XBLA) StackingTo see Double Fine pull away from the retail world and venture into the downloadable realm was a bit concerning for me. Don’t get me wrong, I had no doubts about the talent on the roster. I just felt like it was a bit of a step back and didn’t want the less-than-optimal performance of Brutal Legend causing any lasting stigmas. However, after announcing their two-game deal with publisher THQ and then finally getting some hands-on time with Costume Quest, my position began to change...
2 years ago - Two Worlds II
I had high hopes for Reality Pump’s Two Worlds when it launched back in the Fall of 2007. It had been a bit over a year since Oblivion hit the market and I had hoped that Two Worlds would fill the high fantasy RPG void left in its wake. Unfortunately, a clunky battle system, the generally poor controls overall, terrible voice acting and numerous bugs prevented it from ever reaching its potential. Not that I expected it to best Bethesda’s Elder Scrolls behemoth mind you. I just saw...
Two Worlds II I had high hopes for Reality Pump’s Two Worlds when it launched back in the Fall of 2007. It had been a bit over a year since Oblivion hit the market and I had hoped that Two Worlds would fill the high fantasy RPG void left in its wake. Unfortunately, a clunky battle system, the generally poor controls overall, terrible voice acting and numerous bugs prevented it from ever reaching its potential. Not that I expected it to best Bethesda’s Elder Scrolls behemoth mind you. I just saw...
2 years ago - nail'd
The smell of the exhaust as the engines rev up. The wet slap of the mud as it flings off the nobby tires. Knuckles turning white from gripping the handlebars way too tight. The heightened anxiety as you fly over a hill crest, not knowing what’s on the other side. All of those are things that help describe the feeling of racing off road on an ATV or motorbike. The rush of flying through canyons at breakneck speeds as the wind is whipping by is second to none. Except maybe the bragging...
nail'dThe smell of the exhaust as the engines rev up. The wet slap of the mud as it flings off the nobby tires. Knuckles turning white from gripping the handlebars way too tight. The heightened anxiety as you fly over a hill crest, not knowing what’s on the other side. All of those are things that help describe the feeling of racing off road on an ATV or motorbike. The rush of flying through canyons at breakneck speeds as the wind is whipping by is second to none. Except maybe the bragging...
2 years ago - Bulletstorm
With Portal 2, Crysis 2 and Kirby at E3 this year, I’ve had a bunch of folks question my choice of Bulletstorm as "Best of Show". To be completely honest, when I made that pick, I really had to consider my choice simply to be able to defend it. Fortunately, People Can Fly (the group behind Painkiller) and Epic Games (um...you should already know who these guys are) made that very easy for me. No complex controls learn, no in-depth narrative to process and no banks of...
BulletstormWith Portal 2, Crysis 2 and Kirby at E3 this year, I’ve had a bunch of folks question my choice of Bulletstorm as "Best of Show". To be completely honest, when I made that pick, I really had to consider my choice simply to be able to defend it. Fortunately, People Can Fly (the group behind Painkiller) and Epic Games (um...you should already know who these guys are) made that very easy for me. No complex controls learn, no in-depth narrative to process and no banks of...
2 years ago - Call of Duty: Black Ops
Like many of my fellow Call of Duty fanatics out there, I have known for quite awhile that I’m going to purchase Black Ops when it releases, no question about it. I was hooked early on by the brief but intense trailers, and I was later convinced by details of the new customization and replay options. So last week when Activision announced Call of Duty was going to feature 3D capabilities, I thought it was little more than an added bonus. But after getting a sneak peek at the stunning...
Call of Duty: Black OpsLike many of my fellow Call of Duty fanatics out there, I have known for quite awhile that I’m going to purchase Black Ops when it releases, no question about it. I was hooked early on by the brief but intense trailers, and I was later convinced by details of the new customization and replay options. So last week when Activision announced Call of Duty was going to feature 3D capabilities, I thought it was little more than an added bonus. But after getting a sneak peek at the stunning...
2 years ago - WWE Smackdown vs RAW 2011
As a WWE fan for going on 25 years now, I’ve watched the brand evolve many times. What began as a minor weekly show on Saturday nights, filled with jobbers putting the names over week in and week out has become a vast production, with global programming spanning several primary shows and monthly PPV events. If there’s one thing I’ve always wanted to do, it was live the production. No, I don’t mean sitting in the van directing the camera angles. I’m...
WWE Smackdown vs RAW 2011As a WWE fan for going on 25 years now, I’ve watched the brand evolve many times. What began as a minor weekly show on Saturday nights, filled with jobbers putting the names over week in and week out has become a vast production, with global programming spanning several primary shows and monthly PPV events. If there’s one thing I’ve always wanted to do, it was live the production. No, I don’t mean sitting in the van directing the camera angles. I’m...
2 years ago - (XBLA) Nexuiz
There is a lot of hype surrounding the upcoming CryEngine3 and when you’re intending to be the first downloadable game using the heavy-duty engine to hit the the market, you’re sure to garner a ton of attention. The upcoming Arena-FPS game Nexuiz by Illfonic has a lot of pressure on it to not only deliver on all this talk, but could also give us a taste of what to expect when Crysis 2 arrives in March 2011. I had the opportunity to spend some time with Nexuiz and early...
(XBLA) NexuizThere is a lot of hype surrounding the upcoming CryEngine3 and when you’re intending to be the first downloadable game using the heavy-duty engine to hit the the market, you’re sure to garner a ton of attention. The upcoming Arena-FPS game Nexuiz by Illfonic has a lot of pressure on it to not only deliver on all this talk, but could also give us a taste of what to expect when Crysis 2 arrives in March 2011. I had the opportunity to spend some time with Nexuiz and early...
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