Those of you who have been having issues with the Xbox 360 version of Rockstar's Bully: Scholarship Edition rejoice – a patch that should fix the sound, video and lockup issues many have been experiencing is now available as an automatic update via Xbox Live.
To get the patch, simply connect your console to Xbox Live and pop the Bully disc into your drive – you'll be prompted to download the patch before you can begin playing. Enjoy!
March 22, 2008
Posted by nylatenite |
Patch, Rockstar, Xbox 360, Xbox Live |
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Following in the footsteps of the latest MAME update, MameUI v.123.6, the Windows GUI port of MAME v.123u6, is now available. The same advice I gave about the latest build of MAME applies to this version of MameUI as well.
As you may or may not already know, MameUI was previously known as MAME32. The emulator's name has been changed as it is now available in both 32 and 64 bit versions (as MameUI32 and MameUI64 respectively). Please be sure to download the correct version for your CPU.
March 20, 2008
Posted by nylatenite |
Arcade, Emulation, MAME |
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The week just wouldn't feel right without a MAME update! The MAME development team has made version .123u6 of the Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator available for download. As with the previous release, this update mainly focuses on background fixes and polishing from previous releases.
As usual, unless you've been having difficulties with your current installation, I’d recommend holding off on upgrading until the next full release. Those of you interested in testing this build for the dev team should download the update and then head on over to MAME Testers to find out how to get started.
The updated emulator files can be found at the official MAME development page at Mamedev.org. You can Click here to see the full list of what’s new in this update.
- MAMEDev – Official site of the MAME development team
March 20, 2008
Posted by nylatenite |
Arcade, Emulation, MAME |
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Just a quick note here for all of you stalking the Xbox Live Arcade in search of a new game this morning – It appears that there will be no "new" XBLA release this week, so unless you plan on picking up one of the two games reaching "Arcade Hits" status this week (as we filled you in on yesterday, Assault Heroes and Doom will be dropped to 400 points ($5) each), there's nothing to get excited about.
Move along, nothing to see here.
March 19, 2008
Posted by nylatenite |
Microsoft, Xbox 360, Xbox Live Arcade |
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Microsoft has announced that two more titles will be joining the ranks of it's price reduced Xbox Live Arcade Hits series this Wednesday. Both Assault Heroes and Doom will see their prices slashed from 800 points ($10) to 400 points ($5) – not a bad deal if you've been thinking of grabbing either of the two titles
"Whether you’re avoiding spring cleaning or revving up for spring break, be sure to check out the latest Arcade Hits coming to Xbox LIVE Arcade on Wednesday, including “Assault Heroes” and “DOOM.” The Arcade Hits program offers some of the best-selling Xbox LIVE Arcade games at permanently reduced prices. They can be found within the Xbox LIVE Arcade section of the new Game Store, making it easier than ever to build a library of great downloadable games.
- “Assault Heroes” (Sierra Online). Become the only surviving member of an elite special forces unit searching for a secret underground lab. Play the mission alone or fight side-by-side with a friend in the two-player cooperative mode. The winner of IGN’s Xbox LIVE Arcade game of the year for 2006, “Assault Heroes” will be available for 400 Microsoft Points.
- “DOOM” (id Software). Originally released in 1993, “DOOM” introduced millions to the white-knuckle excitement of the first-person shooter (FPS). Relive the classic demon-blasting action with up to four players over Xbox LIVE*, complete with 5.1 surround sound and smoother graphics. “Doom” will be available for 400 Microsoft Points." – Microsoft press release
While Doom may not have held up to the test of time that well, Assault Heroes is definitely worth the soon to be reduced price. – even when you consider the fact that Assault Heroes 2 is coming soon. It's a great twin-stick top down shooter that captures that classic arcade feel – check it out, I'm pretty sure you won't be disappointed.
March 18, 2008
Posted by nylatenite |
Announcements, Microsoft, Price Drop, Xbox 360, Xbox Live Arcade |
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Things are looking a little bit better this week, as a few titles worth talking about should be finding their way to retail. Of those titles, one stands out from the rest as being worthy of the coveted "pick of the week" status, and that title is Rainbow Six: Vegas 2.
Now I don't know why Ubisoft chose to revisit Vegas instead of finding a new exotic locale, but if you have to visit a city twice, you could certainly do a lot worse than Las Vegas. If the original Rainbow Six: Vegas is any indication, this one should once again give fans of team-based tactical first person shooters something to look forward to.
Let's take a closer look at some of this week's more notable releases, shall we?
Below is the week's full release list – try not to get too excited..
- Condemned 2: Bloodshot (PS3) – 3/19/2008
- Diary Girl (DS) – 3/19/2008
- Fantasy Aquarium (DS) – 3/18/2008
- George of the Jungle (WII) – 3/19/2008
- Go Pets: Vacation Island (DS) – 3/19/2008
- Hot Shots Golf: Out of Bounds (PS3) – 3/19/2008
- Karaoke Revolution: American Idol Encore (Bundle) (PS3) – 3/19/2008
- Lost Empire: Immortals (PC) – 3/19/2008
- Lost in Blue 3 (DS) – 3/19/2008
- Merv Griffin's Crosswords (PC) – 3/18/2008
- Metal Gear Solid: The Essential Collection (PS2) – 3/19/2008
- Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 (WII) – 3/19/2008
- Rainbow Six : Vegas 2 (360) – 3/19/2008
- Rainbow Six : Vegas 2 (PS3) – 3/19/2008
- Rainbow Six: Vegas 2 (Limited Edition) (360) – 3/19/2008
- Rainbow Six: Vegas 2 (Limited Edition) (PS3) – 3/19/2008
- Samurai Warriors 2 (PS2) – 3/19/2008
- Sega Superstars Tennis (360) – 3/19/2008
- Sega Superstars Tennis (DS) – 3/19/2008
- Sega Superstars Tennis (PS2) – 3/19/2008
- Sega Superstars Tennis (PS3) – 3/19/2008
- Sega Superstars Tennis (WII) – 3/19/2008
- Singstar 90's (Bundle) (PS2) – 3/19/2008
- Singstar 90's (Game Only) (PS2) – 3/19/2008
- World Championship Cards (PSP) – 3/18/2008
- Worms: A Space Oddity (WII) – 3/18/2008
- WWII Aces (WII) – 3/21/2008
Please keep in mind these are only estimated release dates and could change at any time.
March 17, 2008
Posted by nylatenite |
This Week's Releases |
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Turbine, Inc. has officially anounced that the first expansion for Lord of the Rings Online, it's mmog based on Tolkein's legendary trilogy, will be available at retail this fall.
"Turbine, Inc. and Codemasters Online today unveiled Volume II of The Lord of the Rings Online™, the first retail expansion for the award-winning massively multiplayer online roleplaying game (MMORPG). Announced in Birmingham, the childhood home of J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings Online™: Mines of Moria™ will expand the online world of Middle-earth to let players explore the ancient underground cities of the dwarves, battle epic characters in the depths, face off with the Watcher, be a part of the fateful release of Durin’s Bane and more! The Lord of the Rings Online expects to open Volume II of its epic story in the fall of 2008 with an increased level cap, two new classes and the introduction of a unique item advancement system.
“The Mines of Moria is one of the most epic settings in all of fantasy fiction,” said Jim Crowley, president and CEO of Turbine, Inc. “No one delivers more quality content than Turbine and with our journey into Moria, we will raise the bar even higher. We are adding vast amounts of content, debuting massive new environments and unveiling numerous unique feature sets, like item advancement, which will create entirely new dimensions of compelling game play and social interaction which are unique to The Lord of the Rings Online experience.” " – Turbine Entertainment press release
Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria will open the second volume of the trilogy and includes not only the six "chapters" included with the expansion at it's release, but access several more as of yet unreleased chapters. In addition, the expansion will also see the addition of two new character classes (Rune-Keeper and Warden), an increased level cap of 70 and the ability to forge "legendary" items.
For more information on both Lord of the Rings Online and the Mines of Moria expansion, including the full text of the press release, check out the links below.
March 16, 2008
Posted by nylatenite |
Announcements, Expansion, Lord of the Rings, MMOG'S, PC Games, Turbine |
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Following in the footsteps of the latest MAME update, MameUI v.123.5, the Windows GUI port of MAME v.123u5, is now available. The same advice I gave about the latest build of MAME applies to this version of MameUI as well.
As you may or may not already know, MameUI was previously known as MAME32. The emulator's name has been changed as it is now available in both 32 and 64 bit versions (as MameUI32 and MameUI64 respectively). Please be sure to download the correct version for your CPU.
March 15, 2008
Posted by nylatenite |
Arcade, Emulation, MAME |
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Just when you thought it was safe to go back on the internet…. another MAME update! The MAME development team has made version .123u5 of the Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator available for download. As with the previous release, this update mainly focuses on background fixes and polishing from previous releases.
As usual, unless you've been having difficulties with your current installation, I’d recommend holding off on upgrading until the next full release. Those of you interested in testing this build for the dev team should download the update and then head on over to MAME Testers to find out how to get started.
The updated emulator files can be found at the official MAME development page at Mamedev.org. You can Click here to see the full list of what’s new in this update.
- MAMEDev – Official site of the MAME development team
March 15, 2008
Posted by nylatenite |
Arcade, Emulation, MAME |
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Sony has made the latest update to the PlayStation 3’s system software (v2.17) available for download via the PlayStation Network and PlayStation.com. Unlike the version 2.10 update, which leaned heavily towards enhancing the system’s video playback features, this update seems to be focusing more on fixing some technical issues with select PS3 titles. Let’s take a look;
The PLAYSTATION®3 system software version 2.17 (with 2.10) update includes the following:
“Voice Changer
The Voice Changer feature has been added to voice / video chat. > See details.
Other new or revised features in version 2.17 (with 2.10):
Music
- You can now select [Type 3] as an option under [Settings] > [Music Settings] > [Bitmapping]. > See details.
- A new pattern has been added for the visual player. > See details.
Video
- DivX and VC-1 (WMV) have been added to the types of files that can be played. *1
- Blu-ray Disc Profile 1.1 is now supported. *2
- [BD Data Utility] has been added. *3
*1 – To play VC-1 (WMV) format files, you must go to (Settings) > (System Settings) and set [Enable WMA Playback]. – Copyright-protected files or files that were encoded by using DivX 3.11 cannot be played.
– Files that are 2GB or more cannot be played.
*2 – You can now use the “Picture in Picture” feature that enables playback of two videos at the same time with some Profile 1.1-compatible Blu-ray Discs. Features available vary depending on the disc.
*3 – Management data that is used by the Blu-ray Disc is saved here.
Game
- New for 2.17: System stability during use of some PLAYSTATION®3 format software has been improved.” – PlayStation.com
For further information or to obtain the update via the internet, check out the link below.
March 14, 2008
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PlayStation 3, PlayStation 3 system update, Sony |
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In honor of Saint Patrick's Day, a free song pack from Dropkick Murphy for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions of Guitar Hero III is now available for download via the Xbox Live Marketplace and PlayStation Store.
March 14, 2008
Posted by nylatenite |
Activision Blizzard, Downloadable Content, Free Stuff, Guitar Hero, PlayStation 3, PlayStation Store, RedOctane, Xbox 360, Xbox Live Marketplace |
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I’ve made no secret in the past that Assault Heroes was one of my favorite "original content" titles to hit the Xbox Live Arcade. The game managed to capture that old school top-down arcade shooter feeling almost perfectly, and very much reminded me of a game I once thought of creating as a teenager. It’s that same fondness that brought a smile to my face in the early hours of this morning when I discovered that a sequel to the game will be hitting the Live Arcade sometime this spring.
Assault Heroes 2 looks to take all the fun of the original and mix in new elements such as upgraded weapons with the ability to commandeer enemy vehicles. Don’t take my word for it though, check out the trailer below courtesy of GameTrailers.com.
For more information on Assault Heroes 2, check out IGN’s exclusive first look at the title as linked below. Assault Heroes 2 is slated for release on the Xbox 360 via the Xbox Live Arcade in Spring 2008. No other platforms have been announced at present.
March 13, 2008
Posted by nylatenite |
Lazy Day Trailers, Shooter, Video, Xbox 360, Xbox Live Arcade |
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Microsoft returns to the two-game formula for Xbox Live Arcade Wednesdays with the release of Bliss Island and Brain Challenge. I'm not exactly feeling up to snuff at the moment, so I'll keep the game descriptions brief and let the demos for each game do the talking.
Looking at the somewhat brief description and photos provided for Bliss Island, I can only assume that it's some type of collection of mini-games, and in truth, the fact that Microsoft's marketing department couldn't come up with more to say about it strikes me as a bit of a bad omen. My advice to you is to definitely try the demo before paying 400 points ($5) on this one.
Title: Bliss Island
Developer: PomPom
Publisher:Codemasters Online
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 3/12/08
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes
From the Xbox.com product description;
"Bliss Island is a fun and engaging pick-up-and-play game, and once you pick it up, you can't put it down! Delve into the world of Bliss Island and help Hoshi win a day off as you take on over 25 unique challenges, spread across nine crazy levels. Mastered single player mode? Challenge your friends online and see who really is the Bliss Island champion.
- Pick up and play: Experience more than 25 unique challenges across nine crazy levels.
- Play with friends: Jump into online multiplayer and challenge your friends online." – Xbox.com
Next up, we've got Brain Challenge, and as you've probably guessed, it's a knockoff of the whole Brain Age concept. Don't act so surprised, you had to know that one of these would be coming along eventually. If you've got a Nintendo DS, I'd say spend the money on a used copy of the original Brain Age (Don't settle for imitations!) instead of the 800 points ($10) being asked for this one – this way you too can get in on the "Blue…BLUE… BROOOOOO!" jokes.
Title: Brain Challenge
Developer: Gameloft
Publisher: Gameloft
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 3/12/08
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-4 / 2-4 online
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes
From the Xbox.com product description;
"Get your brain in shape with fun daily exercises—these challenging and entertaining puzzles act like a vitamin boost for your brain. Brain Challenge™ is more than just a game, it's your personal coach for mental fitness!
Twenty different games in five categories (Memory, Visual, Logic, Math, and Focus) will train all areas of your brain. Keep track of your progress every day, and easily evaluate your level of brain activity. Brain Challenge is the easy and enjoyable way to keep your brain alert.
- Multiplayer fun: Challenge friends with four-player offline and online multiplayer modes.
- Game variety: Thirty games are broken down into different categories—Memory, Visual, Logic, Math, and Focus.
- Training room: Play all the mini-games within each category freely.
- Creative mode: Relax by exploring your brain's creative abilities through five games.
- Stress mode: Test your abilities under stressful conditions.
- Personal coach: Choose your favorite coach to accompany you through all your brain development steps and develop a unique relationship with him or her.
- Brain charts: View your overall performance and progression with detailed stats and graphs" – Xbox.com
As for last week's Live Arcade release, I never got a chance to try Rocketmen: Axis of Evil, so you're on your own! I'm going to go find a bed and collapse in it now. Enjoy!
March 12, 2008
Posted by nylatenite |
Casual Gaming, Codemasters, Xbox 360, Xbox Live Arcade |
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A few days ago we reported that Sega was apparently up to something for the Dreamcast's 10th anniversary via http://www.Dreamcast.com. Before running that story, we had followed several articles around the 'net and checked the site's domain registration information to make sure that it was registered to Sega, and all seemed on the up and up.
While I can't read Japanese, according to Kotaku, Sega is reporting that they have nothing to do with what's going on over at Dreamcast.com. Thankfully, the site's link has been down since we reported on it, so I'm not feeling uber-guilty about it (ah, the benefits of updating a day late and a dollar short), but as the Kotaku article mentions, if you did manage to sign up before the site went under, you may want to both change the password on the e-mail account you used and prepare for the potential deluge of spam/phishing e-mails.
Once again, SEGA SAYS THEY HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH THE DREAMCAST.COM SITE – DON'T BOTHER SIGNING UP OR RESPONDING TO ANY E-MAIL FROM DREAMCAST.COM – all you'll probably get for your troubles is spam and phishing e-mails.
I understand some people were also given an "e-mail address" from the site after signing up. If you even remotely used a password similar to any other ones you use when setting it up, be sure to change those passwords as well. As usual,we'll keep you posted should more information become available.
March 11, 2008
Posted by nylatenite |
Dreamcast, Oops, Rumor Smashed, Scam, Sega |
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I am completely underwhelmed. To say this week's release list doesn't exactly inspire me to jump up and run down to my local game shop would be an understatement. I won't go as far as to not name a pick of the week, but I will say that I make this pick somewhat reluctantly and would advise you to just stick with a rental this week and use the cash to either pick up some game you've missed or hold put for a future release.
That said, Condemned 2: Bloodshot gets the nod as pick of the week, based solely on early reviews and the fact that I know many people who really enjoyed the first title. Early word is the game once again scores on the spooky atmosphere, so thriller fans will definitely want to give this one a look.
Now let's take a closer look at some of this week's more notable releases;
Below is the week's full release list – also completely unplayable – unless you're playing some gaming version of Scrabble.
- Buzz Jr. Robo Jam (Bundle) (PS2) – 3/12/2008
- Buzz Jr. Robo Jam (Game Only) (PS2) – 3/12/2008
- Buzz! The Hollywood Quiz (Bundle) (PS2) – 3/12/2008
- Buzz! The Hollywood Quiz (Game Only) (PS2) – 3/12/2008
- Condemned 2: Bloodshot (360) – 3/12/2008
- Condemned 2: Bloodshot (PS3) – 3/12/2008
- Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Ring of Fates (DS) – 3/12/2008
- House of the Dead 2 and 3 Returns (WII) – 3/12/2008
- Imperium Romanum (PC) – 3/12/2008
- Insecticide (DS) – 3/12/2008
- Nanostray 2 (DS) – 3/12/2008
- Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 (360) – 3/12/2008
- Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 (PS2) – 3/12/2008
- Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 (PS3) – 3/12/2008
- Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 (PSP) – 3/12/2008
- Ratchet and Clank: Size Matters (PS2) – 3/12/2008
- Seven Kingdoms Conquest (PC) – 3/12/2008
- Wild Arms XF (PSP) – 3/12/2008
- World Championship Cards (PSP) – 3/12/2008
- WWE Smackdown vs Raw SuperStar (3 Game Bundle) (PS2) – 3/12/2008
Please keep in mind these are only estimated release dates and could change at any time.
March 10, 2008
Posted by nylatenite |
This Week's Releases |
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Well, I can't say what is going on over at Sega, but they apparently have something up their sleeves to coincide with the 10th anniversary of the Dreamcast's launch.
Reports from around the internet have been coming in for the last few days stating that visitors to Dreamcast.com were being greeted with a message asking them whether or not they still own a Dreamcast. Clicking past that screen apparently led to some form of registration page where the user was asked to enter their console's serial number. Unfortunately, it also appears that the volume of responses was so heavy that Sega has, at least temporarily, shut down access to the registration page.
"Due the high volume of account requests, the service will be temporally suspended." – Dreamcast.com
While I'm not going to believe any rumors of a new Sega console, I would love to know what game Sega is playing at. While it's time on the scene was short, I would never say I didn't get my money's worth out of it and then some – unlike some other Sega products I could mention. (*cough* Sega CD *cough*)
Before I start rambling on about the likes of Soul Calibur, NFL2K, Resident Evil Code: Veronica, Crazy Taxi and the rest, I'll cut this one short and get with the linkage.
I'll be sure to report back on this one as soon as more information on what Sega is up to becomes available.
March 9, 2008
Posted by nylatenite |
Dreamcast, Rumors, Sega |
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Following in the footsteps of the latest MAME update, MameUI v.123.4, the Windows GUI port of MAME v.123u4, is now available. The same advice I gave about the latest build of MAME applies to this version of MameUI as well.
As you may or may not already know, MameUI was previously known as MAME32. The emulator's name has been changed as it is now available in both 32 and 64 bit versions (as MameUI32 and MameUI64 respectively). Please be sure to download the correct version for your CPU.
March 8, 2008
Posted by nylatenite |
Arcade, Emulation, MAME |
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Yes, it's that time again… "What time is it?" you ask? Well, it's time for another MAME update! The MAME development team has made version .123u4 of the Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator available for download. Once again, this update mainly focuses on background fixes and polishing from previous releases.
As usual, unless you've been having difficulties with your current installation, I’d recommend holding off on upgrading until the next full release. Those of you interested in testing this build for the dev team should download the update and then head on over to MAME Testers to find out how to get started.
The updated emulator files can be found at the official MAME development page at Mamedev.org. You can Click here to see the full list of what’s new in this update.
- MAMEDev – Official site of the MAME development team
March 7, 2008
Posted by nylatenite |
Arcade, Emulation, MAME |
1 Comment
A demo of 2K Sports Major League Baseball 2K8 for the Xbox 360 is now available for download via the Xbox Live Marketplace in The United States, Asia and Canada. Approximate file size is 968.95MB.
Please note: As of late November, it appears that Microsoft has re-instituted the one week wait before free content becomes available to Xbox Live Silver members. As such, if you're not an Xbox Live Gold member, this demo most likely won't be available for download until sometime next week.
March 6, 2008
Posted by nylatenite |
2K Sports, Baseball, Demo, MLB, Xbox 360, Xbox Live Marketplace |
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We've got yet another original game coming to the Xbox Live Arcade as Rocketmen: Axis of Evil takes it's place in the Live Marketplace. As with a few of the other recent original titles, I really hadn't heard much about this one prior to it's announcement, but from what I can tell, it's an overhead view futuristic action RPG – I'm guessing it's something like Gauntlet with an RPG flair.
In Rocketmen, up to four players battle the forces of the Legion of Terra (this one is already losing points in my book just for the bad pun) using characters created from a mix of three races and three classes. Now, I don't know about you, but this one sounds like it could go either way. Personally, I get the feeling it's going to stink, but that's just from looking at the screenies and reading the product description – I have not actually tried this game as of yet.
What I'm saying here is that before you shell out the 800 points ($10) being asked for this one, do yourself a favor and download the demo first. Better safe than sorry I always say. That said, let's get on to the particulars.
Title: Rocketmen: Axis of Evil
Developer: A.C.R.O.N.Y.M. Games Inc.
Publisher:Capcom
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 3/05/08
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-4
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E10 (Everyone 10+) Fantasy Violence, Mild Suggestive Themes
Demo?: Yes
From the Xbox.com product description;
"Join Nick Sion, Alec Mink and the Alliance of Free Planets in their white-knuckled, frenzied struggle to free the Solar System from the tyrannical grip of the Legion of Terra! Rocketmen®: Axis of Evil provides non-stop multiplayer action with role-playing game elements, including customizable characters and an engaging story, all wrapped in the game's distinctive cel-shaded art style. Play with up to four players in co-op mode and blast anything that moves.
- Customize your character: Create, customize, and level up your own individual Rocketmen characters with new items, abilities, and looks.
- Multiplayer action: Join with friends to save the galaxy in four-player cooperative play locally or online.
- Your choice: Choose from three races: Human, Mercurian, or Venusian, and from three classes: Warrior, Engineer, or Outcast.
- Explosive action: Simple, addictive, and highly explosive gameplay blasts onto your TV in high-definition with plenty of levels, hordes of enemies, and lots of fun.." – Xbox.com
As for last week's Live Arcade release, if you're a fan of difficult shmups, then Triggerheart Exelica is for you – those who prefer a more casual shooter experience will probably not find the game nearly as entertaining. Like I always say, be sure to try the demo before you buy a title you may not be sure about – and I'd probably recommend it even when you think you will absolutely love a game.
March 5, 2008
Posted by nylatenite |
Capcom, Xbox 360, Xbox Live Arcade |
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Yes folks, God of War III is coming to the PlayStation 3. Naturally, right about now you're saying something snarky and wondering how this is news – after all, I don't think anyone has ever doubted that Sony would be bringing God of War III to the system.
Well, what you may not know is that apparently the game is "coming soon" – at least that's the word according to the instruction manual for God of War: Chains of Olympus on the PSP. You see, IGN is reporting that much like the back cover of the God of War II manual which announced that Chains would be coming, the back of Chains' manual shows the familiar God of War "Omega" logo with the PS3 logo and "coming soon" written under it.
While there's certainly been no official word from Sony as to when God of War 3 will be hitting retail, one does have to wonder how long it's been in production and if this could be Sony's counterweight to Microsoft's Gears of War 2 come November. Regardless of what the situation is, we'll be sure to keep you updated on any developments as we hear about them.
March 4, 2008
Posted by nylatenite |
God of War, PlayStation 3, Rumors, Sony |
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Wow, it's been awhile since I've felt this conflicted over what game should get the "coveted" Game of the Week honors. We've got no drought of contenders at retail this week, with no less than six titles competing for the honor.
When all is said and done, there really was only one choice – Super Smash Bros. Brawl for the Wii. Some might say I made that pick based solely on the fact that R.O.B. is going to be a playable character, but I assure you, it's more than that. The game has received glowing reviews in Japan and it's been awhile since I've seen the Nintendo faithful this worked up over a title. (Okay, I'll admit it – maybe the fact that R.O.B. will be in the game helped a bit too)
That doesn't take away from this week's other games in any way. If I owned a PSP, I'd most certainly be picking up God of War: Chains of Olympus this week, and if you ask one of my buddies, he'd tell you that there is no other choice but MLB 08: The Show for the PlayStation 3. It's just one of those weeks where there's a little bit of something for everyone. Let's take a closer look at some of this week's retail titles;
Be sure to check out the below list for all the titles you can expect to find at retail this week.
- Anno 1701: Dawn of Discovery (DS) – 3/5/2008
- Arctic Stud Poker Run (PC) – 3/4/2008
- Army of Two (360) – 3/5/2008
- Army of Two (PS3) – 3/5/2008
- Blokus Portable: Steambot Championship (PSP) – 3/4/2008
- Bubble Bobble: Double Shot (DS) – 3/4/2008
- Build-a-lot (PC) – 3/5/2008
- Bully: Scholarship Edition (360) – 3/4/2008
- Bully: Scholarship Edition (WII) – 3/4/2008
- Chicken Hunter (DS) – 3/5/2008
- Company of Heroes: Gold (PC) – 3/5/2008
- Eco Creatures: Save the Forest (DS) – 3/5/2008
- God of War: Chains of Olympus (PSP) – 3/5/2008
- Homie Rollerz (DS) – 3/6/2008
- Imagine: Figure Skater (DS) – 3/5/2008
- Imperium Romanum (PC) – 3/5/2008
- Let's Ride: Friends Forever (DS) – 3/4/2008
- Major League Baseball 2K8 (360) – 3/4/2008
- Major League Baseball 2K8 (PS2) – 3/4/2008
- Major League Baseball 2K8 (PS3) – 3/4/2008
- Major League Baseball 2K8 (PSP) – 3/4/2008
- Major League Baseball 2K8 (WII) – 3/4/2008
- MLB 08: The Show (PS2) – 3/5/2008
- MLB 08: The Show (PS3) – 3/5/2008
- MLB 08: The Show (PSP) – 3/5/2008
- Mystery Dungeon: Shiren the Wanderer (DS) – 3/5/2008
- Ninja Reflex (WII) – 3/4/2008
- Ninja Reflex (DS) – 3/5/2008
- Petz Bunnyz (DS) – 3/5/2008
- Silent Hill: Origins (PS2) – 3/5/2008
- Spitfire Heroes: Tales of the Royal Air Force (DS) – 3/6/2008
- Super Smash Bros. Brawl (WII) – 3/9/2008
- Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War – Soulstorm (PC) – 3/5/2008
- World Championship Cards (PSP) – 3/5/2008
Please keep in mind these are only estimated release dates and could change at any time.
March 3, 2008
Posted by nylatenite |
This Week's Releases |
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Just a quick follow up to last Thursday's story. Gamefly has confirmed to us that "for the time being" they will once again be including protective cardboard mailer inserts with all rentals.
"For the time being, we have decided to implement the cardboard covers in our mailers once again. Should things change in the future, we will notify our customers." – Gamefly support
While they gave no reason for the change, I'd have to assume that it's due to an unacceptable increase in the number of discs being damaged in transit since they stopped using the mailers back in June of 2007. That's just a guess though – absolutely nothing official behind that.
March 2, 2008
Posted by nylatenite |
Gamefly, Original Content, Rumor Confirmed |
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The wait is over… at least for Xbox 360 Call of Duty 4 owners. Infinity Ward has finally released the long awaited patch for some of the problems plaguing the console version of CoD4. Players will be automatically prompted to receive the download if connected to Xbox Live the next time they play the game. (PC Owners please note; I believe all of these fixes have been available for the PC for quite some time now, so if you haven't patched CoD4 yet, you may want to look into it)
Number one on my wish list was a fix for the accuracy problems that have so far made using a sniper's rifle or ACOG scope more of a detriment than a benefit. According to the patch message, those problems should now be gone. I haven't tested the ACOG scopes yet, but from my experiences, the standard sniper rifles have definitely seen an increase in accuracy, making them once again an enjoyable option.
If that had been the only fix, I would have been a happy man – but Infinity Ward decided that happy wasn't good enough. According to Infinity Ward Community Director Robert "FourZeroTwo" Bowling, the company fixed quite a few issues in yesterday's patch. Let's take a look;
"New Kill Cams – Everything that can kill you has a Kill Cam now. Grenades, Airstrikes, Claymores, C4, M203 Rounds, RPGs, anything. So jump online, get owned alittle and check them out. They’re awesome, especially Grenades and M203 shots that go across the map and through a window.
Host Migration – Host migration was added, so now when the host leaves you won’t get dropped back to your own lobby by yourself. Everyone will stay together. Host Leaves, everyone returns to lobby, selects next best host, and the game starts up again. No more re-inviting, re-partying up because a host ended the game.
Improved Sniper Accuracy – The Sniper rifle accuracy has been improved. No more, WTF? shots now. Your cross hair will be a better representation of where your shot will ultimately land. Try out a sniper class today, let us know how the new accuracy feels.
Improved ACOG Scope Accuracy – ACOG scopes accuracy on any weapon has been improved. Test it out, throw it on one of your classes and give it a go.
Upgraded Spectator Cam – Now when you’re a spectator you have the option to follow in 3rd person or 1st person. As well as rotate 360 degrees around the player you’re watching. Next time you’re dead in Search and Destroy and just watching your team mates do stuff you know you can do better, now do it in 1st person or rotate around them.
Quick Mute Option – Now you can easily and quickly mute players in-game or in-lobby without ever going through the Xbox Live blades. Just go to their gamertag on screen and hit ‘A’ to quick mute in lobby, or via the in-game scoreboard if playing. Quick. Easy. Salvation!
In addition to these feature additions there will also be:
Improved Network Performance For Larger Games – 18 player games now require more bandwidth to host, resulting in smoother performance for players.
Optimized Server Selection for First Match – Server selection is now optimized to select best bandwidth servers associated by LSP.
Fixed “Playlist Older Than Host” Error – Player will no longer get this error when entering games.
Additional Start Spawn Locations in All Maps – Added a minimum of 9 extra start spawns on each side of all maps." – Robert "FourZeroTwo" Bowling
Overall, this is a great patch for the game, taking into account many of player's complaints and suggestions. Sadly, while the patch notes list some network performance fixes, I still found the same old lag in several of the games I played. Looks like there's still some improvement needed on that end.
Finally, lest PlayStation 3 owners feel slighted, FourZeroTwo confirmed that there is a PlayStation 3 version of this patch going through certification at Sony, and will be available as soon as that testing is done.
March 1, 2008
Posted by nylatenite |
Activision Blizzard, Announcements, Call of Duty, FPS, Infinity Ward, Patch, Xbox 360, Xbox Live |
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