PLAYSTATION 3 SEGA SUPERSTARS TENNIS DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Sega's Sega Superstars Tennis for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 501MB.

• Sega Superstars Tennis – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 CONDEMNED 2: BLOODSHOT DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Sega's Condemned 2: Bloodshot for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 714MB.

• Condemned 2: Bloodshot – Official website

SEGA ADVISES IT HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH DREAMCAST.COM

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.

• Phishing: Sega Didn't Ask About Your Dreamcast, Some Dirty Rotten Scoundrel Did – Kotaku

SEGA UP TO SOMETHING FOR 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF DREAMCAST?

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.

• Do You Still Own a Dreamcast? – Dreamcast.com 

PLAYSTATION 3 THE CLUB DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Sega & Bizarre Creations' The Club for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 1.70GB.

• The Club – Official website

XBOX 360 THE CLUB DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Sega & Bizarre Creations' The Club for the Xbox 360 is now available for download in North America via the Xbox Live Marketplace. Download size is approximately 1.36GB.

Please note: As of late November 2007, 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.

• The Club – Official website

XBOX 360 VIRTUA FIGHTER 5 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Sega’s Virtua Fighter 5 for the Xbox 360 is now available for download in all regions via the Xbox Live Marketplace. Download size is approximately 674.39MB.

• Virtua Fighter 5 – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 SEGA RALLY REVO DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Sega’s SEGA Rally Revo for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 713MB.

• SEGA Rally Revo – Official website

XBOX 360 SEGA RALLY REVO DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Sega’s SEGA Rally Revo for the Xbox 360 is now available for download in all regions except Japan via the Xbox Live Marketplace. Download size is approximately 691.82MB.

• SEGA Rally Revo – Official website

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 2

Looks like we’re getting quite a few Sega Genesis titles these days, doesn’t it? While it still remains to be seen if this will be a rare one-title week, Microsoft has confirmed that Sega’s Genesis classic Sonic the Hedgehog 2 will be making it’s Xbox Live Arcade debut today.

Sonic 2 introduced the world to Sonic’s sidekick Tails, a fox who, oddly enough, had two tails and could use them to hover like a helicopter. The game also saw the introduction of Sonic’s now famous Spin Dash attack – a move that allowed Sonic to spin quickly in place and then release all that energy in a massive burst of speed. By default, the player will play the game as Sonic with a AI driven Tails tagging along, however players did also have the option to either play as Sonic or Tails by themselves.

This one is probably my favorite of the Sonic series for reasons of nostalgia, and while Sega has certainly not been treating the Sonic franchise well in recent years, this one harkens back to the days when Sonic truly was an “A list” character. So long as the game doesn’t somehow get ruined in the translation to the Xbox 360, 2D platformer fans will certainly be pleased with this one.

Title: Sonic the Hedgehog 2
Developer: Backbone Entertainment
Publisher: Sega of America
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 9/12/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“With his new Super Spin Dash and “Tails” the Fox, Sonic is back and better than ever in Sonic The Hedgehog 2! Defy gravity in hair-raising loop-de-loops, bounce like a pinball and race like lightning. Play against friends at home or against others over Xbox LIVE® in this classic game.

• Classic Sonic action: One of the world’s most famous video game characters comes to Xbox LIVE in one of his fans’ favorite titles. Experience the thrill of the fastest hedgehog in the universe.
• Enhanced graphics and sound: The game stays true to the original, but takes full advantage of high-definition graphics, with enhanced sound effects.
• Achievements and leaderboards: Take on the challenge of new achievements to conquer, and use the leaderboards to compare scores among friends and the rest of the Xbox LIVE world.
• Multiplayer: Play with a friend at home, or go online and play Sonic and Tails with the world at large.” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s two Live Arcade releases, it really was a disappointing set of titles. As I mentioned, I was never a Fatal Fury fan, so I wasn’t expecting much from Fatal Fury Special at all, but I did have high expectations for Cyberball 2072 – and those expectations were crushed by the lack of a 2 player versus mode. Why Midway chose to go the cheap and easy route and only emulate half of the experience is mind-boggling – though I’m willing to bet it has something to do with the rather unique setup of the arcade machine. (Those of you who never saw Cyberball 2072 in the arcades should note that 2 player versus mode was accomplished by having what was essentially two arcade machines back to back built into one. Each player had their own screen and didn’t have to worry about their opponent being able to look at their play selection.)

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – STREETS OF RAGE 2

I guess the folks at Microsoft decided to sneak a second Xbox Live Arcade game in at the last moment… The classic Sega Genesis brawler Streets of Rage 2 has made it’s Xbox 360 debut – with online co-op play.

While I may not have been that excited about Super Puzzle Fighter II, this is one game that I’ll most assuredly be grabbing – so long as it was emulated properly. The game plays in much the same fashion as Capcom’s Final Fight as you take the role of one of four characters who must fight their way through a city gone bad in search of a kidnapped friend. This one is definitely a classic, so I’d at least suggest you download the demo and give it a whirl.

One word of caution: word around the old internet water-cooler is that there are some issues with co-op play over Live right now. If that feature is a deciding factor in your purchase decision, you may want to hold off and make sure the game gets patched before you buy it.

Title: Streets of Rage 2
Developer: Backbone Entertainment
Publisher: Sega of America
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/29/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone) – Animated Violence
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"The classic arcade fighting game Streets of Rage 2™ comes to Xbox LIVE® Arcade. Play as Blaze, Skate, Max, or Axel as you attempt to save Adam from the evil clutches of Dr. X. Special fighting moves for characters and unique weapons add to the excitement as you fight your way to the Syndicate’s stronghold.

• Classic arcade fighting action: Each character has special abilities. Learn to use their moves to defeat the enemies and the bosses.
• Unique weapons: Katanas, shuriken, knives, and more are available for the player. Weapons can even be thrown for ranged damage.
• Stellar soundtrack: The music for the arcade version of Streets of Rage 2 by Yuzo Koshiro is widely considered as some of the finest music ever made for an arcade game.
• Achievements: All new achievements to master and improve your Gamerscore. Control the Streets of Rage!" – Xbox.com

Now if only someone would tell Microsoft’s marketing group that Streets of Rage 2 was never released in the arcades.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – HEXIC 2 & ECCO THE DOLPHIN

The Xbox Live Arcade returns to it’s two-a-week release format with today’s launch of Hexic 2 and Ecco the Dolphin. I can’t say that I’m particularly enthused about either release, as the original Hexic HD (as included on the Xbox 360 HD) bored me to tears – and while I was a huge Sega Genesis fan back in the day, Ecco was a title that would not even rank in my top 25 titles for that system.

That said, I will admit to being completely unaware that Alexey Pajitnov was behind Hexic until I read it in the Xbox.com product description for the game. I guess if you’re going to be a puzzle game and have a pedigree, Pajitnov’s name is the one to have. It’s not going to make me buy the game – or probably even try the demo – but it at least made me think twice. (Mind you, I’m not saying Hexic 2 is going to be a bad game, I’m just saying it’s not my kind of game – if you enjoyed the original Hexic, you’ll probably want to download the trial for Hexic 2 at the very least.)

Title: Hexic 2
Developer: Carbonated Games
Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/15/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Building on the success of Hexic HD, Hexic™ 2 brings all-new pieces to the board and a new multiplayer mode, so you can compete with friends in your living room or over Xbox LIVE®.

The basic gameplay is straightforward, familiar, and addictive—just spin a trio of hexes to create a group of three or more matching colors, or build a formation of hexes to create more advanced pieces. Whether you want a relaxing puzzle break or a frantic race against the clock, Hexic 2 has you covered!

• Acclaimed developer: Hexic 2 is another challenging puzzle hit from Alexey Pajitnov, the original creator of Tetris®.
• New challenges: All-new special pieces, different formations, and modes keep Hexic 2 challenging even for the veteran Hexic player.
• Multiplayer competition: Amp up the gaming excitement playing multiplayer on the same console or over Xbox LIVE (up to two players) in Battle Mode.
• Easy to learn: The gameplay is straightforward, approachable, and highly addictive.
• Stunning visuals: The game is rendered in full 3-D with stunning special effects such as reflections, glow, and spectacular highlights.” – Xbox.com

I have even less to say about Ecco as I’ve only played the original source material a few times and those brief encounters were enough to tell me it also wasn’t a game for me. As with Hexic 2, your mileage may vary.

Title: Ecco the Dolphin
Developer: Backbone Entertainment
Publisher: Sega of America
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/15/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone) – Animated Blood
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“A terrible storm has swept the family of Ecco the Dolphin from their watery home. Now, Ecco must search for them through a vast underwater world. Danger and adventure awaits you in Ecco the Dolphin™. Use Ecco’s sonar to discover hidden caverns and unlock the secrets of the crystal glyphs. Take on schools of ravenous sharks. Discover the mysteries of the deep, save your dolphin family, and protect the world from the Vortex. The fate of the whole world rests on your fins.

• Huge world to explore: Over 25 giant underwater levels of fighting action and puzzle-solving.
• Intriguing storyline: Solve the mystery of the Vortex and the fate of your dolphin family.
• Real-world movement: Knife through the waters and flip above the waves with animated motions created from real dolphins.
• Classic gameplay: All the classic gameplay from the original console game now brought to the next-gen world of Xbox 360™” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade release of Track & Field, I’ve got to say that I found that the game was actually easier to play using the 360’s controller as opposed to the original arcade controls – at least as far as the demo events went. Ultimately, while it was a nice blast of nostalgia for a little while, the demo never convinced me that it was worth shelling out even $5 for. It was one of those games that had I purchased, I knew would have just wound up sitting on my hard drive collecting dust.

The only thing at this point that could change that decision for me would be if several friends grabbed the game and a genuine competition started over the event scores. Yeah, I’m a bit of a nut about that – it still pisses me off whenever I see that I’ve lost the top score or dropped further down on my friend’s list leaderboard.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – HEXIC 2 & ECCO THE DOLPHIN

The Xbox Live Arcade returns to it’s two-a-week release format with today’s launch of Hexic 2 and Ecco the Dolphin. I can’t say that I’m particularly enthused about either release, as the original Hexic HD (as included on the Xbox 360 HD) bored me to tears – and while I was a huge Sega Genesis fan back in the day, Ecco was a title that would not even rank in my top 25 titles for that system.

That said, I will admit to being completely unaware that Alexey Pajitnov was behind Hexic until I read it in the Xbox.com product description for the game. I guess if you’re going to be a puzzle game and have a pedigree, Pajitnov’s name is the one to have. It’s not going to make me buy the game – or probably even try the demo – but it at least made me think twice. (Mind you, I’m not saying Hexic 2 is going to be a bad game, I’m just saying it’s not my kind of game – if you enjoyed the original Hexic, you’ll probably want to download the trial for Hexic 2 at the very least.)

Title: Hexic 2
Developer: Carbonated Games
Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/15/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Building on the success of Hexic HD, Hexic™ 2 brings all-new pieces to the board and a new multiplayer mode, so you can compete with friends in your living room or over Xbox LIVE®.

The basic gameplay is straightforward, familiar, and addictive—just spin a trio of hexes to create a group of three or more matching colors, or build a formation of hexes to create more advanced pieces. Whether you want a relaxing puzzle break or a frantic race against the clock, Hexic 2 has you covered!

• Acclaimed developer: Hexic 2 is another challenging puzzle hit from Alexey Pajitnov, the original creator of Tetris®.
• New challenges: All-new special pieces, different formations, and modes keep Hexic 2 challenging even for the veteran Hexic player.
• Multiplayer competition: Amp up the gaming excitement playing multiplayer on the same console or over Xbox LIVE (up to two players) in Battle Mode.
• Easy to learn: The gameplay is straightforward, approachable, and highly addictive.
• Stunning visuals: The game is rendered in full 3-D with stunning special effects such as reflections, glow, and spectacular highlights.” – Xbox.com

I have even less to say about Ecco as I’ve only played the original source material a few times and those brief encounters were enough to tell me it also wasn’t a game for me. As with Hexic 2, your mileage may vary.

Title: Ecco the Dolphin
Developer: Backbone Entertainment
Publisher: Sega of America
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/15/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone) – Animated Blood
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“A terrible storm has swept the family of Ecco the Dolphin from their watery home. Now, Ecco must search for them through a vast underwater world. Danger and adventure awaits you in Ecco the Dolphin™. Use Ecco’s sonar to discover hidden caverns and unlock the secrets of the crystal glyphs. Take on schools of ravenous sharks. Discover the mysteries of the deep, save your dolphin family, and protect the world from the Vortex. The fate of the whole world rests on your fins.

• Huge world to explore: Over 25 giant underwater levels of fighting action and puzzle-solving.
• Intriguing storyline: Solve the mystery of the Vortex and the fate of your dolphin family.
• Real-world movement: Knife through the waters and flip above the waves with animated motions created from real dolphins.
• Classic gameplay: All the classic gameplay from the original console game now brought to the next-gen world of Xbox 360™” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade release of Track & Field, I’ve got to say that I found that the game was actually easier to play using the 360’s controller as opposed to the original arcade controls – at least as far as the demo events went. Ultimately, while it was a nice blast of nostalgia for a little while, the demo never convinced me that it was worth shelling out even $5 for. It was one of those games that had I purchased, I knew would have just wound up sitting on my hard drive collecting dust.

The only thing at this point that could change that decision for me would be if several friends grabbed the game and a genuine competition started over the event scores. Yeah, I’m a bit of a nut about that – it still pisses me off whenever I see that I’ve lost the top score or dropped further down on my friend’s list leaderboard.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – HEXIC 2 & ECCO THE DOLPHIN

The Xbox Live Arcade returns to it’s two-a-week release format with today’s launch of Hexic 2 and Ecco the Dolphin. I can’t say that I’m particularly enthused about either release, as the original Hexic HD (as included on the Xbox 360 HD) bored me to tears – and while I was a huge Sega Genesis fan back in the day, Ecco was a title that would not even rank in my top 25 titles for that system.

That said, I will admit to being completely unaware that Alexey Pajitnov was behind Hexic until I read it in the Xbox.com product description for the game. I guess if you’re going to be a puzzle game and have a pedigree, Pajitnov’s name is the one to have. It’s not going to make me buy the game – or probably even try the demo – but it at least made me think twice. (Mind you, I’m not saying Hexic 2 is going to be a bad game, I’m just saying it’s not my kind of game – if you enjoyed the original Hexic, you’ll probably want to download the trial for Hexic 2 at the very least.)

Title: Hexic 2
Developer: Carbonated Games
Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/15/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Building on the success of Hexic HD, Hexic™ 2 brings all-new pieces to the board and a new multiplayer mode, so you can compete with friends in your living room or over Xbox LIVE®.

The basic gameplay is straightforward, familiar, and addictive—just spin a trio of hexes to create a group of three or more matching colors, or build a formation of hexes to create more advanced pieces. Whether you want a relaxing puzzle break or a frantic race against the clock, Hexic 2 has you covered!

• Acclaimed developer: Hexic 2 is another challenging puzzle hit from Alexey Pajitnov, the original creator of Tetris®.
• New challenges: All-new special pieces, different formations, and modes keep Hexic 2 challenging even for the veteran Hexic player.
• Multiplayer competition: Amp up the gaming excitement playing multiplayer on the same console or over Xbox LIVE (up to two players) in Battle Mode.
• Easy to learn: The gameplay is straightforward, approachable, and highly addictive.
• Stunning visuals: The game is rendered in full 3-D with stunning special effects such as reflections, glow, and spectacular highlights.” – Xbox.com

I have even less to say about Ecco as I’ve only played the original source material a few times and those brief encounters were enough to tell me it also wasn’t a game for me. As with Hexic 2, your mileage may vary.

Title: Ecco the Dolphin
Developer: Backbone Entertainment
Publisher: Sega of America
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/15/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone) – Animated Blood
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“A terrible storm has swept the family of Ecco the Dolphin from their watery home. Now, Ecco must search for them through a vast underwater world. Danger and adventure awaits you in Ecco the Dolphin™. Use Ecco’s sonar to discover hidden caverns and unlock the secrets of the crystal glyphs. Take on schools of ravenous sharks. Discover the mysteries of the deep, save your dolphin family, and protect the world from the Vortex. The fate of the whole world rests on your fins.

• Huge world to explore: Over 25 giant underwater levels of fighting action and puzzle-solving.
• Intriguing storyline: Solve the mystery of the Vortex and the fate of your dolphin family.
• Real-world movement: Knife through the waters and flip above the waves with animated motions created from real dolphins.
• Classic gameplay: All the classic gameplay from the original console game now brought to the next-gen world of Xbox 360™” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade release of Track & Field, I’ve got to say that I found that the game was actually easier to play using the 360’s controller as opposed to the original arcade controls – at least as far as the demo events went. Ultimately, while it was a nice blast of nostalgia for a little while, the demo never convinced me that it was worth shelling out even $5 for. It was one of those games that had I purchased, I knew would have just wound up sitting on my hard drive collecting dust.

The only thing at this point that could change that decision for me would be if several friends grabbed the game and a genuine competition started over the event scores. Yeah, I’m a bit of a nut about that – it still pisses me off whenever I see that I’ve lost the top score or dropped further down on my friend’s list leaderboard.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – HEXIC 2 & ECCO THE DOLPHIN

The Xbox Live Arcade returns to it’s two-a-week release format with today’s launch of Hexic 2 and Ecco the Dolphin. I can’t say that I’m particularly enthused about either release, as the original Hexic HD (as included on the Xbox 360 HD) bored me to tears – and while I was a huge Sega Genesis fan back in the day, Ecco was a title that would not even rank in my top 25 titles for that system.

That said, I will admit to being completely unaware that Alexey Pajitnov was behind Hexic until I read it in the Xbox.com product description for the game. I guess if you’re going to be a puzzle game and have a pedigree, Pajitnov’s name is the one to have. It’s not going to make me buy the game – or probably even try the demo – but it at least made me think twice. (Mind you, I’m not saying Hexic 2 is going to be a bad game, I’m just saying it’s not my kind of game – if you enjoyed the original Hexic, you’ll probably want to download the trial for Hexic 2 at the very least.)

Title: Hexic 2
Developer: Carbonated Games
Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/15/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Building on the success of Hexic HD, Hexic™ 2 brings all-new pieces to the board and a new multiplayer mode, so you can compete with friends in your living room or over Xbox LIVE®.

The basic gameplay is straightforward, familiar, and addictive—just spin a trio of hexes to create a group of three or more matching colors, or build a formation of hexes to create more advanced pieces. Whether you want a relaxing puzzle break or a frantic race against the clock, Hexic 2 has you covered!

• Acclaimed developer: Hexic 2 is another challenging puzzle hit from Alexey Pajitnov, the original creator of Tetris®.
• New challenges: All-new special pieces, different formations, and modes keep Hexic 2 challenging even for the veteran Hexic player.
• Multiplayer competition: Amp up the gaming excitement playing multiplayer on the same console or over Xbox LIVE (up to two players) in Battle Mode.
• Easy to learn: The gameplay is straightforward, approachable, and highly addictive.
• Stunning visuals: The game is rendered in full 3-D with stunning special effects such as reflections, glow, and spectacular highlights.” – Xbox.com

I have even less to say about Ecco as I’ve only played the original source material a few times and those brief encounters were enough to tell me it also wasn’t a game for me. As with Hexic 2, your mileage may vary.

Title: Ecco the Dolphin
Developer: Backbone Entertainment
Publisher: Sega of America
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/15/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone) – Animated Blood
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“A terrible storm has swept the family of Ecco the Dolphin from their watery home. Now, Ecco must search for them through a vast underwater world. Danger and adventure awaits you in Ecco the Dolphin™. Use Ecco’s sonar to discover hidden caverns and unlock the secrets of the crystal glyphs. Take on schools of ravenous sharks. Discover the mysteries of the deep, save your dolphin family, and protect the world from the Vortex. The fate of the whole world rests on your fins.

• Huge world to explore: Over 25 giant underwater levels of fighting action and puzzle-solving.
• Intriguing storyline: Solve the mystery of the Vortex and the fate of your dolphin family.
• Real-world movement: Knife through the waters and flip above the waves with animated motions created from real dolphins.
• Classic gameplay: All the classic gameplay from the original console game now brought to the next-gen world of Xbox 360™” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade release of Track & Field, I’ve got to say that I found that the game was actually easier to play using the 360’s controller as opposed to the original arcade controls – at least as far as the demo events went. Ultimately, while it was a nice blast of nostalgia for a little while, the demo never convinced me that it was worth shelling out even $5 for. It was one of those games that had I purchased, I knew would have just wound up sitting on my hard drive collecting dust.

The only thing at this point that could change that decision for me would be if several friends grabbed the game and a genuine competition started over the event scores. Yeah, I’m a bit of a nut about that – it still pisses me off whenever I see that I’ve lost the top score or dropped further down on my friend’s list leaderboard.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – HEXIC 2 & ECCO THE DOLPHIN

The Xbox Live Arcade returns to it’s two-a-week release format with today’s launch of Hexic 2 and Ecco the Dolphin. I can’t say that I’m particularly enthused about either release, as the original Hexic HD (as included on the Xbox 360 HD) bored me to tears – and while I was a huge Sega Genesis fan back in the day, Ecco was a title that would not even rank in my top 25 titles for that system.

That said, I will admit to being completely unaware that Alexey Pajitnov was behind Hexic until I read it in the Xbox.com product description for the game. I guess if you’re going to be a puzzle game and have a pedigree, Pajitnov’s name is the one to have. It’s not going to make me buy the game – or probably even try the demo – but it at least made me think twice. (Mind you, I’m not saying Hexic 2 is going to be a bad game, I’m just saying it’s not my kind of game – if you enjoyed the original Hexic, you’ll probably want to download the trial for Hexic 2 at the very least.)

Title: Hexic 2
Developer: Carbonated Games
Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/15/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Building on the success of Hexic HD, Hexic™ 2 brings all-new pieces to the board and a new multiplayer mode, so you can compete with friends in your living room or over Xbox LIVE®.

The basic gameplay is straightforward, familiar, and addictive—just spin a trio of hexes to create a group of three or more matching colors, or build a formation of hexes to create more advanced pieces. Whether you want a relaxing puzzle break or a frantic race against the clock, Hexic 2 has you covered!

• Acclaimed developer: Hexic 2 is another challenging puzzle hit from Alexey Pajitnov, the original creator of Tetris®.
• New challenges: All-new special pieces, different formations, and modes keep Hexic 2 challenging even for the veteran Hexic player.
• Multiplayer competition: Amp up the gaming excitement playing multiplayer on the same console or over Xbox LIVE (up to two players) in Battle Mode.
• Easy to learn: The gameplay is straightforward, approachable, and highly addictive.
• Stunning visuals: The game is rendered in full 3-D with stunning special effects such as reflections, glow, and spectacular highlights.” – Xbox.com

I have even less to say about Ecco as I’ve only played the original source material a few times and those brief encounters were enough to tell me it also wasn’t a game for me. As with Hexic 2, your mileage may vary.

Title: Ecco the Dolphin
Developer: Backbone Entertainment
Publisher: Sega of America
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/15/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone) – Animated Blood
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“A terrible storm has swept the family of Ecco the Dolphin from their watery home. Now, Ecco must search for them through a vast underwater world. Danger and adventure awaits you in Ecco the Dolphin™. Use Ecco’s sonar to discover hidden caverns and unlock the secrets of the crystal glyphs. Take on schools of ravenous sharks. Discover the mysteries of the deep, save your dolphin family, and protect the world from the Vortex. The fate of the whole world rests on your fins.

• Huge world to explore: Over 25 giant underwater levels of fighting action and puzzle-solving.
• Intriguing storyline: Solve the mystery of the Vortex and the fate of your dolphin family.
• Real-world movement: Knife through the waters and flip above the waves with animated motions created from real dolphins.
• Classic gameplay: All the classic gameplay from the original console game now brought to the next-gen world of Xbox 360™” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade release of Track & Field, I’ve got to say that I found that the game was actually easier to play using the 360’s controller as opposed to the original arcade controls – at least as far as the demo events went. Ultimately, while it was a nice blast of nostalgia for a little while, the demo never convinced me that it was worth shelling out even $5 for. It was one of those games that had I purchased, I knew would have just wound up sitting on my hard drive collecting dust.

The only thing at this point that could change that decision for me would be if several friends grabbed the game and a genuine competition started over the event scores. Yeah, I’m a bit of a nut about that – it still pisses me off whenever I see that I’ve lost the top score or dropped further down on my friend’s list leaderboard.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – HEXIC 2 & ECCO THE DOLPHIN

The Xbox Live Arcade returns to it’s two-a-week release format with today’s launch of Hexic 2 and Ecco the Dolphin. I can’t say that I’m particularly enthused about either release, as the original Hexic HD (as included on the Xbox 360 HD) bored me to tears – and while I was a huge Sega Genesis fan back in the day, Ecco was a title that would not even rank in my top 25 titles for that system.

That said, I will admit to being completely unaware that Alexey Pajitnov was behind Hexic until I read it in the Xbox.com product description for the game. I guess if you’re going to be a puzzle game and have a pedigree, Pajitnov’s name is the one to have. It’s not going to make me buy the game – or probably even try the demo – but it at least made me think twice. (Mind you, I’m not saying Hexic 2 is going to be a bad game, I’m just saying it’s not my kind of game – if you enjoyed the original Hexic, you’ll probably want to download the trial for Hexic 2 at the very least.)

Title: Hexic 2
Developer: Carbonated Games
Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/15/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Building on the success of Hexic HD, Hexic™ 2 brings all-new pieces to the board and a new multiplayer mode, so you can compete with friends in your living room or over Xbox LIVE®.

The basic gameplay is straightforward, familiar, and addictive—just spin a trio of hexes to create a group of three or more matching colors, or build a formation of hexes to create more advanced pieces. Whether you want a relaxing puzzle break or a frantic race against the clock, Hexic 2 has you covered!

• Acclaimed developer: Hexic 2 is another challenging puzzle hit from Alexey Pajitnov, the original creator of Tetris®.
• New challenges: All-new special pieces, different formations, and modes keep Hexic 2 challenging even for the veteran Hexic player.
• Multiplayer competition: Amp up the gaming excitement playing multiplayer on the same console or over Xbox LIVE (up to two players) in Battle Mode.
• Easy to learn: The gameplay is straightforward, approachable, and highly addictive.
• Stunning visuals: The game is rendered in full 3-D with stunning special effects such as reflections, glow, and spectacular highlights.” – Xbox.com

I have even less to say about Ecco as I’ve only played the original source material a few times and those brief encounters were enough to tell me it also wasn’t a game for me. As with Hexic 2, your mileage may vary.

Title: Ecco the Dolphin
Developer: Backbone Entertainment
Publisher: Sega of America
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/15/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone) – Animated Blood
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“A terrible storm has swept the family of Ecco the Dolphin from their watery home. Now, Ecco must search for them through a vast underwater world. Danger and adventure awaits you in Ecco the Dolphin™. Use Ecco’s sonar to discover hidden caverns and unlock the secrets of the crystal glyphs. Take on schools of ravenous sharks. Discover the mysteries of the deep, save your dolphin family, and protect the world from the Vortex. The fate of the whole world rests on your fins.

• Huge world to explore: Over 25 giant underwater levels of fighting action and puzzle-solving.
• Intriguing storyline: Solve the mystery of the Vortex and the fate of your dolphin family.
• Real-world movement: Knife through the waters and flip above the waves with animated motions created from real dolphins.
• Classic gameplay: All the classic gameplay from the original console game now brought to the next-gen world of Xbox 360™” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade release of Track & Field, I’ve got to say that I found that the game was actually easier to play using the 360’s controller as opposed to the original arcade controls – at least as far as the demo events went. Ultimately, while it was a nice blast of nostalgia for a little while, the demo never convinced me that it was worth shelling out even $5 for. It was one of those games that had I purchased, I knew would have just wound up sitting on my hard drive collecting dust.

The only thing at this point that could change that decision for me would be if several friends grabbed the game and a genuine competition started over the event scores. Yeah, I’m a bit of a nut about that – it still pisses me off whenever I see that I’ve lost the top score or dropped further down on my friend’s list leaderboard.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – HEXIC 2 & ECCO THE DOLPHIN

The Xbox Live Arcade returns to it’s two-a-week release format with today’s launch of Hexic 2 and Ecco the Dolphin. I can’t say that I’m particularly enthused about either release, as the original Hexic HD (as included on the Xbox 360 HD) bored me to tears – and while I was a huge Sega Genesis fan back in the day, Ecco was a title that would not even rank in my top 25 titles for that system.

That said, I will admit to being completely unaware that Alexey Pajitnov was behind Hexic until I read it in the Xbox.com product description for the game. I guess if you’re going to be a puzzle game and have a pedigree, Pajitnov’s name is the one to have. It’s not going to make me buy the game – or probably even try the demo – but it at least made me think twice. (Mind you, I’m not saying Hexic 2 is going to be a bad game, I’m just saying it’s not my kind of game – if you enjoyed the original Hexic, you’ll probably want to download the trial for Hexic 2 at the very least.)

Title: Hexic 2
Developer: Carbonated Games
Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/15/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Building on the success of Hexic HD, Hexic™ 2 brings all-new pieces to the board and a new multiplayer mode, so you can compete with friends in your living room or over Xbox LIVE®.

The basic gameplay is straightforward, familiar, and addictive—just spin a trio of hexes to create a group of three or more matching colors, or build a formation of hexes to create more advanced pieces. Whether you want a relaxing puzzle break or a frantic race against the clock, Hexic 2 has you covered!

• Acclaimed developer: Hexic 2 is another challenging puzzle hit from Alexey Pajitnov, the original creator of Tetris®.
• New challenges: All-new special pieces, different formations, and modes keep Hexic 2 challenging even for the veteran Hexic player.
• Multiplayer competition: Amp up the gaming excitement playing multiplayer on the same console or over Xbox LIVE (up to two players) in Battle Mode.
• Easy to learn: The gameplay is straightforward, approachable, and highly addictive.
• Stunning visuals: The game is rendered in full 3-D with stunning special effects such as reflections, glow, and spectacular highlights.” – Xbox.com

I have even less to say about Ecco as I’ve only played the original source material a few times and those brief encounters were enough to tell me it also wasn’t a game for me. As with Hexic 2, your mileage may vary.

Title: Ecco the Dolphin
Developer: Backbone Entertainment
Publisher: Sega of America
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/15/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone) – Animated Blood
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“A terrible storm has swept the family of Ecco the Dolphin from their watery home. Now, Ecco must search for them through a vast underwater world. Danger and adventure awaits you in Ecco the Dolphin™. Use Ecco’s sonar to discover hidden caverns and unlock the secrets of the crystal glyphs. Take on schools of ravenous sharks. Discover the mysteries of the deep, save your dolphin family, and protect the world from the Vortex. The fate of the whole world rests on your fins.

• Huge world to explore: Over 25 giant underwater levels of fighting action and puzzle-solving.
• Intriguing storyline: Solve the mystery of the Vortex and the fate of your dolphin family.
• Real-world movement: Knife through the waters and flip above the waves with animated motions created from real dolphins.
• Classic gameplay: All the classic gameplay from the original console game now brought to the next-gen world of Xbox 360™” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade release of Track & Field, I’ve got to say that I found that the game was actually easier to play using the 360’s controller as opposed to the original arcade controls – at least as far as the demo events went. Ultimately, while it was a nice blast of nostalgia for a little while, the demo never convinced me that it was worth shelling out even $5 for. It was one of those games that had I purchased, I knew would have just wound up sitting on my hard drive collecting dust.

The only thing at this point that could change that decision for me would be if several friends grabbed the game and a genuine competition started over the event scores. Yeah, I’m a bit of a nut about that – it still pisses me off whenever I see that I’ve lost the top score or dropped further down on my friend’s list leaderboard.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – HEXIC 2 & ECCO THE DOLPHIN

The Xbox Live Arcade returns to it’s two-a-week release format with today’s launch of Hexic 2 and Ecco the Dolphin. I can’t say that I’m particularly enthused about either release, as the original Hexic HD (as included on the Xbox 360 HD) bored me to tears – and while I was a huge Sega Genesis fan back in the day, Ecco was a title that would not even rank in my top 25 titles for that system.

That said, I will admit to being completely unaware that Alexey Pajitnov was behind Hexic until I read it in the Xbox.com product description for the game. I guess if you’re going to be a puzzle game and have a pedigree, Pajitnov’s name is the one to have. It’s not going to make me buy the game – or probably even try the demo – but it at least made me think twice. (Mind you, I’m not saying Hexic 2 is going to be a bad game, I’m just saying it’s not my kind of game – if you enjoyed the original Hexic, you’ll probably want to download the trial for Hexic 2 at the very least.)

Title: Hexic 2
Developer: Carbonated Games
Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/15/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Building on the success of Hexic HD, Hexic™ 2 brings all-new pieces to the board and a new multiplayer mode, so you can compete with friends in your living room or over Xbox LIVE®.

The basic gameplay is straightforward, familiar, and addictive—just spin a trio of hexes to create a group of three or more matching colors, or build a formation of hexes to create more advanced pieces. Whether you want a relaxing puzzle break or a frantic race against the clock, Hexic 2 has you covered!

• Acclaimed developer: Hexic 2 is another challenging puzzle hit from Alexey Pajitnov, the original creator of Tetris®.
• New challenges: All-new special pieces, different formations, and modes keep Hexic 2 challenging even for the veteran Hexic player.
• Multiplayer competition: Amp up the gaming excitement playing multiplayer on the same console or over Xbox LIVE (up to two players) in Battle Mode.
• Easy to learn: The gameplay is straightforward, approachable, and highly addictive.
• Stunning visuals: The game is rendered in full 3-D with stunning special effects such as reflections, glow, and spectacular highlights.” – Xbox.com

I have even less to say about Ecco as I’ve only played the original source material a few times and those brief encounters were enough to tell me it also wasn’t a game for me. As with Hexic 2, your mileage may vary.

Title: Ecco the Dolphin
Developer: Backbone Entertainment
Publisher: Sega of America
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/15/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone) – Animated Blood
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“A terrible storm has swept the family of Ecco the Dolphin from their watery home. Now, Ecco must search for them through a vast underwater world. Danger and adventure awaits you in Ecco the Dolphin™. Use Ecco’s sonar to discover hidden caverns and unlock the secrets of the crystal glyphs. Take on schools of ravenous sharks. Discover the mysteries of the deep, save your dolphin family, and protect the world from the Vortex. The fate of the whole world rests on your fins.

• Huge world to explore: Over 25 giant underwater levels of fighting action and puzzle-solving.
• Intriguing storyline: Solve the mystery of the Vortex and the fate of your dolphin family.
• Real-world movement: Knife through the waters and flip above the waves with animated motions created from real dolphins.
• Classic gameplay: All the classic gameplay from the original console game now brought to the next-gen world of Xbox 360™” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade release of Track & Field, I’ve got to say that I found that the game was actually easier to play using the 360’s controller as opposed to the original arcade controls – at least as far as the demo events went. Ultimately, while it was a nice blast of nostalgia for a little while, the demo never convinced me that it was worth shelling out even $5 for. It was one of those games that had I purchased, I knew would have just wound up sitting on my hard drive collecting dust.

The only thing at this point that could change that decision for me would be if several friends grabbed the game and a genuine competition started over the event scores. Yeah, I’m a bit of a nut about that – it still pisses me off whenever I see that I’ve lost the top score or dropped further down on my friend’s list leaderboard.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – HEXIC 2 & ECCO THE DOLPHIN

The Xbox Live Arcade returns to it’s two-a-week release format with today’s launch of Hexic 2 and Ecco the Dolphin. I can’t say that I’m particularly enthused about either release, as the original Hexic HD (as included on the Xbox 360 HD) bored me to tears – and while I was a huge Sega Genesis fan back in the day, Ecco was a title that would not even rank in my top 25 titles for that system.

That said, I will admit to being completely unaware that Alexey Pajitnov was behind Hexic until I read it in the Xbox.com product description for the game. I guess if you’re going to be a puzzle game and have a pedigree, Pajitnov’s name is the one to have. It’s not going to make me buy the game – or probably even try the demo – but it at least made me think twice. (Mind you, I’m not saying Hexic 2 is going to be a bad game, I’m just saying it’s not my kind of game – if you enjoyed the original Hexic, you’ll probably want to download the trial for Hexic 2 at the very least.)

Title: Hexic 2
Developer: Carbonated Games
Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/15/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Building on the success of Hexic HD, Hexic™ 2 brings all-new pieces to the board and a new multiplayer mode, so you can compete with friends in your living room or over Xbox LIVE®.

The basic gameplay is straightforward, familiar, and addictive—just spin a trio of hexes to create a group of three or more matching colors, or build a formation of hexes to create more advanced pieces. Whether you want a relaxing puzzle break or a frantic race against the clock, Hexic 2 has you covered!

• Acclaimed developer: Hexic 2 is another challenging puzzle hit from Alexey Pajitnov, the original creator of Tetris®.
• New challenges: All-new special pieces, different formations, and modes keep Hexic 2 challenging even for the veteran Hexic player.
• Multiplayer competition: Amp up the gaming excitement playing multiplayer on the same console or over Xbox LIVE (up to two players) in Battle Mode.
• Easy to learn: The gameplay is straightforward, approachable, and highly addictive.
• Stunning visuals: The game is rendered in full 3-D with stunning special effects such as reflections, glow, and spectacular highlights.” – Xbox.com

I have even less to say about Ecco as I’ve only played the original source material a few times and those brief encounters were enough to tell me it also wasn’t a game for me. As with Hexic 2, your mileage may vary.

Title: Ecco the Dolphin
Developer: Backbone Entertainment
Publisher: Sega of America
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/15/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone) – Animated Blood
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“A terrible storm has swept the family of Ecco the Dolphin from their watery home. Now, Ecco must search for them through a vast underwater world. Danger and adventure awaits you in Ecco the Dolphin™. Use Ecco’s sonar to discover hidden caverns and unlock the secrets of the crystal glyphs. Take on schools of ravenous sharks. Discover the mysteries of the deep, save your dolphin family, and protect the world from the Vortex. The fate of the whole world rests on your fins.

• Huge world to explore: Over 25 giant underwater levels of fighting action and puzzle-solving.
• Intriguing storyline: Solve the mystery of the Vortex and the fate of your dolphin family.
• Real-world movement: Knife through the waters and flip above the waves with animated motions created from real dolphins.
• Classic gameplay: All the classic gameplay from the original console game now brought to the next-gen world of Xbox 360™” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade release of Track & Field, I’ve got to say that I found that the game was actually easier to play using the 360’s controller as opposed to the original arcade controls – at least as far as the demo events went. Ultimately, while it was a nice blast of nostalgia for a little while, the demo never convinced me that it was worth shelling out even $5 for. It was one of those games that had I purchased, I knew would have just wound up sitting on my hard drive collecting dust.

The only thing at this point that could change that decision for me would be if several friends grabbed the game and a genuine competition started over the event scores. Yeah, I’m a bit of a nut about that – it still pisses me off whenever I see that I’ve lost the top score or dropped further down on my friend’s list leaderboard.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – HEXIC 2 & ECCO THE DOLPHIN

The Xbox Live Arcade returns to it’s two-a-week release format with today’s launch of Hexic 2 and Ecco the Dolphin. I can’t say that I’m particularly enthused about either release, as the original Hexic HD (as included on the Xbox 360 HD) bored me to tears – and while I was a huge Sega Genesis fan back in the day, Ecco was a title that would not even rank in my top 25 titles for that system.

That said, I will admit to being completely unaware that Alexey Pajitnov was behind Hexic until I read it in the Xbox.com product description for the game. I guess if you’re going to be a puzzle game and have a pedigree, Pajitnov’s name is the one to have. It’s not going to make me buy the game – or probably even try the demo – but it at least made me think twice. (Mind you, I’m not saying Hexic 2 is going to be a bad game, I’m just saying it’s not my kind of game – if you enjoyed the original Hexic, you’ll probably want to download the trial for Hexic 2 at the very least.)

Title: Hexic 2
Developer: Carbonated Games
Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/15/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Building on the success of Hexic HD, Hexic™ 2 brings all-new pieces to the board and a new multiplayer mode, so you can compete with friends in your living room or over Xbox LIVE®.

The basic gameplay is straightforward, familiar, and addictive—just spin a trio of hexes to create a group of three or more matching colors, or build a formation of hexes to create more advanced pieces. Whether you want a relaxing puzzle break or a frantic race against the clock, Hexic 2 has you covered!

• Acclaimed developer: Hexic 2 is another challenging puzzle hit from Alexey Pajitnov, the original creator of Tetris®.
• New challenges: All-new special pieces, different formations, and modes keep Hexic 2 challenging even for the veteran Hexic player.
• Multiplayer competition: Amp up the gaming excitement playing multiplayer on the same console or over Xbox LIVE (up to two players) in Battle Mode.
• Easy to learn: The gameplay is straightforward, approachable, and highly addictive.
• Stunning visuals: The game is rendered in full 3-D with stunning special effects such as reflections, glow, and spectacular highlights.” – Xbox.com

I have even less to say about Ecco as I’ve only played the original source material a few times and those brief encounters were enough to tell me it also wasn’t a game for me. As with Hexic 2, your mileage may vary.

Title: Ecco the Dolphin
Developer: Backbone Entertainment
Publisher: Sega of America
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/15/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone) – Animated Blood
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“A terrible storm has swept the family of Ecco the Dolphin from their watery home. Now, Ecco must search for them through a vast underwater world. Danger and adventure awaits you in Ecco the Dolphin™. Use Ecco’s sonar to discover hidden caverns and unlock the secrets of the crystal glyphs. Take on schools of ravenous sharks. Discover the mysteries of the deep, save your dolphin family, and protect the world from the Vortex. The fate of the whole world rests on your fins.

• Huge world to explore: Over 25 giant underwater levels of fighting action and puzzle-solving.
• Intriguing storyline: Solve the mystery of the Vortex and the fate of your dolphin family.
• Real-world movement: Knife through the waters and flip above the waves with animated motions created from real dolphins.
• Classic gameplay: All the classic gameplay from the original console game now brought to the next-gen world of Xbox 360™” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade release of Track & Field, I’ve got to say that I found that the game was actually easier to play using the 360’s controller as opposed to the original arcade controls – at least as far as the demo events went. Ultimately, while it was a nice blast of nostalgia for a little while, the demo never convinced me that it was worth shelling out even $5 for. It was one of those games that had I purchased, I knew would have just wound up sitting on my hard drive collecting dust.

The only thing at this point that could change that decision for me would be if several friends grabbed the game and a genuine competition started over the event scores. Yeah, I’m a bit of a nut about that – it still pisses me off whenever I see that I’ve lost the top score or dropped further down on my friend’s list leaderboard.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – HEXIC 2 & ECCO THE DOLPHIN

The Xbox Live Arcade returns to it’s two-a-week release format with today’s launch of Hexic 2 and Ecco the Dolphin. I can’t say that I’m particularly enthused about either release, as the original Hexic HD (as included on the Xbox 360 HD) bored me to tears – and while I was a huge Sega Genesis fan back in the day, Ecco was a title that would not even rank in my top 25 titles for that system.

That said, I will admit to being completely unaware that Alexey Pajitnov was behind Hexic until I read it in the Xbox.com product description for the game. I guess if you’re going to be a puzzle game and have a pedigree, Pajitnov’s name is the one to have. It’s not going to make me buy the game – or probably even try the demo – but it at least made me think twice. (Mind you, I’m not saying Hexic 2 is going to be a bad game, I’m just saying it’s not my kind of game – if you enjoyed the original Hexic, you’ll probably want to download the trial for Hexic 2 at the very least.)

Title: Hexic 2
Developer: Carbonated Games
Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/15/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Building on the success of Hexic HD, Hexic™ 2 brings all-new pieces to the board and a new multiplayer mode, so you can compete with friends in your living room or over Xbox LIVE®.

The basic gameplay is straightforward, familiar, and addictive—just spin a trio of hexes to create a group of three or more matching colors, or build a formation of hexes to create more advanced pieces. Whether you want a relaxing puzzle break or a frantic race against the clock, Hexic 2 has you covered!

• Acclaimed developer: Hexic 2 is another challenging puzzle hit from Alexey Pajitnov, the original creator of Tetris®.
• New challenges: All-new special pieces, different formations, and modes keep Hexic 2 challenging even for the veteran Hexic player.
• Multiplayer competition: Amp up the gaming excitement playing multiplayer on the same console or over Xbox LIVE (up to two players) in Battle Mode.
• Easy to learn: The gameplay is straightforward, approachable, and highly addictive.
• Stunning visuals: The game is rendered in full 3-D with stunning special effects such as reflections, glow, and spectacular highlights.” – Xbox.com

I have even less to say about Ecco as I’ve only played the original source material a few times and those brief encounters were enough to tell me it also wasn’t a game for me. As with Hexic 2, your mileage may vary.

Title: Ecco the Dolphin
Developer: Backbone Entertainment
Publisher: Sega of America
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/15/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone) – Animated Blood
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“A terrible storm has swept the family of Ecco the Dolphin from their watery home. Now, Ecco must search for them through a vast underwater world. Danger and adventure awaits you in Ecco the Dolphin™. Use Ecco’s sonar to discover hidden caverns and unlock the secrets of the crystal glyphs. Take on schools of ravenous sharks. Discover the mysteries of the deep, save your dolphin family, and protect the world from the Vortex. The fate of the whole world rests on your fins.

• Huge world to explore: Over 25 giant underwater levels of fighting action and puzzle-solving.
• Intriguing storyline: Solve the mystery of the Vortex and the fate of your dolphin family.
• Real-world movement: Knife through the waters and flip above the waves with animated motions created from real dolphins.
• Classic gameplay: All the classic gameplay from the original console game now brought to the next-gen world of Xbox 360™” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade release of Track & Field, I’ve got to say that I found that the game was actually easier to play using the 360’s controller as opposed to the original arcade controls – at least as far as the demo events went. Ultimately, while it was a nice blast of nostalgia for a little while, the demo never convinced me that it was worth shelling out even $5 for. It was one of those games that had I purchased, I knew would have just wound up sitting on my hard drive collecting dust.

The only thing at this point that could change that decision for me would be if several friends grabbed the game and a genuine competition started over the event scores. Yeah, I’m a bit of a nut about that – it still pisses me off whenever I see that I’ve lost the top score or dropped further down on my friend’s list leaderboard.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE – PART 2

There’s a lot of ground to cover today, so I’m going to dispense with the history lessons this week and just give you the release information for these two titles. Let’s get to it.

Title: Sonic the Hedgehog
Developer:
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E10 (Everyone 10+)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Sonic, the fastest blue hedgehog on earth, will rocket through hair-raising loop-de-loops and take dizzying dives past bubbling lava, waterfalls and more in Sonic the Hedgehog Arcade. Gather up the rings and stop Dr.Eggman’s (aka Dr. Robotnik) schemes for world domination!

• Enhanced version: Newly enhanced graphics bring this 1991 console classic to life as never before. Once again, you can thrill to Sonic’s adventures, but this time in an updated environment.
• Leaderboards: Top Score leaderboards are there to keep track of your progress.
• All new achievements: Twelve new achievements, range from simple such as clearing the Green Hill Zone or collecting one hundred rings, to more challenging, such as trying to complete the game without losing a life.” – Xbox.com

Title: Golden Axe
Developer: Secret Level
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: Not Available
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Three mighty heroes have a score to settle with the evil Death Adder in this classic action game, now adapted for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. As a powerful fighter, a female Amazon, or a mighty dwarf, fight through Adder’s henchmen with weapon and magic attacks, or ride the fearsome, fire-breathing dragon in Golden Axe.

• Enhanced graphics and sound: Relive all those classic arcade moments with an adaptation of one of the most important arcade games released. Golden Axe is one of SEGA’s most treasured brands, and they’ve treated this classic well, with updated graphics and sound effects.
• Leaderboards: Two high score leaderboards are used, one for Normal, and one for Hardcore play.
• Multiplayer capability: Now you and a friend can join in on the action.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements are included to master, ranging from the easy such as playing every character, to the difficult, such as winning the game without having to use a continue.” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s release, Missile Command, I’ve got to say that I was a little disappointed by it. While the original version of the game was spot on and the controls are workable, the enhanced mode just left a lot to be desired. I think for me it was the almost haphazard way the bolts of lightning you shoot (instead of missiles) streak out, which makes it very hard to time your shots. It’s not a horrible game, but it’s one you definitely want to try before you buy.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE – PART 2

There’s a lot of ground to cover today, so I’m going to dispense with the history lessons this week and just give you the release information for these two titles. Let’s get to it.

Title: Sonic the Hedgehog
Developer:
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E10 (Everyone 10+)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Sonic, the fastest blue hedgehog on earth, will rocket through hair-raising loop-de-loops and take dizzying dives past bubbling lava, waterfalls and more in Sonic the Hedgehog Arcade. Gather up the rings and stop Dr.Eggman’s (aka Dr. Robotnik) schemes for world domination!

• Enhanced version: Newly enhanced graphics bring this 1991 console classic to life as never before. Once again, you can thrill to Sonic’s adventures, but this time in an updated environment.
• Leaderboards: Top Score leaderboards are there to keep track of your progress.
• All new achievements: Twelve new achievements, range from simple such as clearing the Green Hill Zone or collecting one hundred rings, to more challenging, such as trying to complete the game without losing a life.” – Xbox.com

Title: Golden Axe
Developer: Secret Level
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: Not Available
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Three mighty heroes have a score to settle with the evil Death Adder in this classic action game, now adapted for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. As a powerful fighter, a female Amazon, or a mighty dwarf, fight through Adder’s henchmen with weapon and magic attacks, or ride the fearsome, fire-breathing dragon in Golden Axe.

• Enhanced graphics and sound: Relive all those classic arcade moments with an adaptation of one of the most important arcade games released. Golden Axe is one of SEGA’s most treasured brands, and they’ve treated this classic well, with updated graphics and sound effects.
• Leaderboards: Two high score leaderboards are used, one for Normal, and one for Hardcore play.
• Multiplayer capability: Now you and a friend can join in on the action.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements are included to master, ranging from the easy such as playing every character, to the difficult, such as winning the game without having to use a continue.” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s release, Missile Command, I’ve got to say that I was a little disappointed by it. While the original version of the game was spot on and the controls are workable, the enhanced mode just left a lot to be desired. I think for me it was the almost haphazard way the bolts of lightning you shoot (instead of missiles) streak out, which makes it very hard to time your shots. It’s not a horrible game, but it’s one you definitely want to try before you buy.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE – PART 2

There’s a lot of ground to cover today, so I’m going to dispense with the history lessons this week and just give you the release information for these two titles. Let’s get to it.

Title: Sonic the Hedgehog
Developer:
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E10 (Everyone 10+)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Sonic, the fastest blue hedgehog on earth, will rocket through hair-raising loop-de-loops and take dizzying dives past bubbling lava, waterfalls and more in Sonic the Hedgehog Arcade. Gather up the rings and stop Dr.Eggman’s (aka Dr. Robotnik) schemes for world domination!

• Enhanced version: Newly enhanced graphics bring this 1991 console classic to life as never before. Once again, you can thrill to Sonic’s adventures, but this time in an updated environment.
• Leaderboards: Top Score leaderboards are there to keep track of your progress.
• All new achievements: Twelve new achievements, range from simple such as clearing the Green Hill Zone or collecting one hundred rings, to more challenging, such as trying to complete the game without losing a life.” – Xbox.com

Title: Golden Axe
Developer: Secret Level
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: Not Available
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Three mighty heroes have a score to settle with the evil Death Adder in this classic action game, now adapted for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. As a powerful fighter, a female Amazon, or a mighty dwarf, fight through Adder’s henchmen with weapon and magic attacks, or ride the fearsome, fire-breathing dragon in Golden Axe.

• Enhanced graphics and sound: Relive all those classic arcade moments with an adaptation of one of the most important arcade games released. Golden Axe is one of SEGA’s most treasured brands, and they’ve treated this classic well, with updated graphics and sound effects.
• Leaderboards: Two high score leaderboards are used, one for Normal, and one for Hardcore play.
• Multiplayer capability: Now you and a friend can join in on the action.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements are included to master, ranging from the easy such as playing every character, to the difficult, such as winning the game without having to use a continue.” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s release, Missile Command, I’ve got to say that I was a little disappointed by it. While the original version of the game was spot on and the controls are workable, the enhanced mode just left a lot to be desired. I think for me it was the almost haphazard way the bolts of lightning you shoot (instead of missiles) streak out, which makes it very hard to time your shots. It’s not a horrible game, but it’s one you definitely want to try before you buy.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE – PART 2

There’s a lot of ground to cover today, so I’m going to dispense with the history lessons this week and just give you the release information for these two titles. Let’s get to it.

Title: Sonic the Hedgehog
Developer:
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E10 (Everyone 10+)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Sonic, the fastest blue hedgehog on earth, will rocket through hair-raising loop-de-loops and take dizzying dives past bubbling lava, waterfalls and more in Sonic the Hedgehog Arcade. Gather up the rings and stop Dr.Eggman’s (aka Dr. Robotnik) schemes for world domination!

• Enhanced version: Newly enhanced graphics bring this 1991 console classic to life as never before. Once again, you can thrill to Sonic’s adventures, but this time in an updated environment.
• Leaderboards: Top Score leaderboards are there to keep track of your progress.
• All new achievements: Twelve new achievements, range from simple such as clearing the Green Hill Zone or collecting one hundred rings, to more challenging, such as trying to complete the game without losing a life.” – Xbox.com

Title: Golden Axe
Developer: Secret Level
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: Not Available
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Three mighty heroes have a score to settle with the evil Death Adder in this classic action game, now adapted for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. As a powerful fighter, a female Amazon, or a mighty dwarf, fight through Adder’s henchmen with weapon and magic attacks, or ride the fearsome, fire-breathing dragon in Golden Axe.

• Enhanced graphics and sound: Relive all those classic arcade moments with an adaptation of one of the most important arcade games released. Golden Axe is one of SEGA’s most treasured brands, and they’ve treated this classic well, with updated graphics and sound effects.
• Leaderboards: Two high score leaderboards are used, one for Normal, and one for Hardcore play.
• Multiplayer capability: Now you and a friend can join in on the action.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements are included to master, ranging from the easy such as playing every character, to the difficult, such as winning the game without having to use a continue.” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s release, Missile Command, I’ve got to say that I was a little disappointed by it. While the original version of the game was spot on and the controls are workable, the enhanced mode just left a lot to be desired. I think for me it was the almost haphazard way the bolts of lightning you shoot (instead of missiles) streak out, which makes it very hard to time your shots. It’s not a horrible game, but it’s one you definitely want to try before you buy.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE – PART 2

There’s a lot of ground to cover today, so I’m going to dispense with the history lessons this week and just give you the release information for these two titles. Let’s get to it.

Title: Sonic the Hedgehog
Developer:
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E10 (Everyone 10+)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Sonic, the fastest blue hedgehog on earth, will rocket through hair-raising loop-de-loops and take dizzying dives past bubbling lava, waterfalls and more in Sonic the Hedgehog Arcade. Gather up the rings and stop Dr.Eggman’s (aka Dr. Robotnik) schemes for world domination!

• Enhanced version: Newly enhanced graphics bring this 1991 console classic to life as never before. Once again, you can thrill to Sonic’s adventures, but this time in an updated environment.
• Leaderboards: Top Score leaderboards are there to keep track of your progress.
• All new achievements: Twelve new achievements, range from simple such as clearing the Green Hill Zone or collecting one hundred rings, to more challenging, such as trying to complete the game without losing a life.” – Xbox.com

Title: Golden Axe
Developer: Secret Level
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: Not Available
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Three mighty heroes have a score to settle with the evil Death Adder in this classic action game, now adapted for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. As a powerful fighter, a female Amazon, or a mighty dwarf, fight through Adder’s henchmen with weapon and magic attacks, or ride the fearsome, fire-breathing dragon in Golden Axe.

• Enhanced graphics and sound: Relive all those classic arcade moments with an adaptation of one of the most important arcade games released. Golden Axe is one of SEGA’s most treasured brands, and they’ve treated this classic well, with updated graphics and sound effects.
• Leaderboards: Two high score leaderboards are used, one for Normal, and one for Hardcore play.
• Multiplayer capability: Now you and a friend can join in on the action.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements are included to master, ranging from the easy such as playing every character, to the difficult, such as winning the game without having to use a continue.” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s release, Missile Command, I’ve got to say that I was a little disappointed by it. While the original version of the game was spot on and the controls are workable, the enhanced mode just left a lot to be desired. I think for me it was the almost haphazard way the bolts of lightning you shoot (instead of missiles) streak out, which makes it very hard to time your shots. It’s not a horrible game, but it’s one you definitely want to try before you buy.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE – PART 2

There’s a lot of ground to cover today, so I’m going to dispense with the history lessons this week and just give you the release information for these two titles. Let’s get to it.

Title: Sonic the Hedgehog
Developer:
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E10 (Everyone 10+)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Sonic, the fastest blue hedgehog on earth, will rocket through hair-raising loop-de-loops and take dizzying dives past bubbling lava, waterfalls and more in Sonic the Hedgehog Arcade. Gather up the rings and stop Dr.Eggman’s (aka Dr. Robotnik) schemes for world domination!

• Enhanced version: Newly enhanced graphics bring this 1991 console classic to life as never before. Once again, you can thrill to Sonic’s adventures, but this time in an updated environment.
• Leaderboards: Top Score leaderboards are there to keep track of your progress.
• All new achievements: Twelve new achievements, range from simple such as clearing the Green Hill Zone or collecting one hundred rings, to more challenging, such as trying to complete the game without losing a life.” – Xbox.com

Title: Golden Axe
Developer: Secret Level
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: Not Available
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Three mighty heroes have a score to settle with the evil Death Adder in this classic action game, now adapted for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. As a powerful fighter, a female Amazon, or a mighty dwarf, fight through Adder’s henchmen with weapon and magic attacks, or ride the fearsome, fire-breathing dragon in Golden Axe.

• Enhanced graphics and sound: Relive all those classic arcade moments with an adaptation of one of the most important arcade games released. Golden Axe is one of SEGA’s most treasured brands, and they’ve treated this classic well, with updated graphics and sound effects.
• Leaderboards: Two high score leaderboards are used, one for Normal, and one for Hardcore play.
• Multiplayer capability: Now you and a friend can join in on the action.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements are included to master, ranging from the easy such as playing every character, to the difficult, such as winning the game without having to use a continue.” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s release, Missile Command, I’ve got to say that I was a little disappointed by it. While the original version of the game was spot on and the controls are workable, the enhanced mode just left a lot to be desired. I think for me it was the almost haphazard way the bolts of lightning you shoot (instead of missiles) streak out, which makes it very hard to time your shots. It’s not a horrible game, but it’s one you definitely want to try before you buy.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE – PART 2

There’s a lot of ground to cover today, so I’m going to dispense with the history lessons this week and just give you the release information for these two titles. Let’s get to it.

Title: Sonic the Hedgehog
Developer:
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E10 (Everyone 10+)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Sonic, the fastest blue hedgehog on earth, will rocket through hair-raising loop-de-loops and take dizzying dives past bubbling lava, waterfalls and more in Sonic the Hedgehog Arcade. Gather up the rings and stop Dr.Eggman’s (aka Dr. Robotnik) schemes for world domination!

• Enhanced version: Newly enhanced graphics bring this 1991 console classic to life as never before. Once again, you can thrill to Sonic’s adventures, but this time in an updated environment.
• Leaderboards: Top Score leaderboards are there to keep track of your progress.
• All new achievements: Twelve new achievements, range from simple such as clearing the Green Hill Zone or collecting one hundred rings, to more challenging, such as trying to complete the game without losing a life.” – Xbox.com

Title: Golden Axe
Developer: Secret Level
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: Not Available
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Three mighty heroes have a score to settle with the evil Death Adder in this classic action game, now adapted for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. As a powerful fighter, a female Amazon, or a mighty dwarf, fight through Adder’s henchmen with weapon and magic attacks, or ride the fearsome, fire-breathing dragon in Golden Axe.

• Enhanced graphics and sound: Relive all those classic arcade moments with an adaptation of one of the most important arcade games released. Golden Axe is one of SEGA’s most treasured brands, and they’ve treated this classic well, with updated graphics and sound effects.
• Leaderboards: Two high score leaderboards are used, one for Normal, and one for Hardcore play.
• Multiplayer capability: Now you and a friend can join in on the action.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements are included to master, ranging from the easy such as playing every character, to the difficult, such as winning the game without having to use a continue.” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s release, Missile Command, I’ve got to say that I was a little disappointed by it. While the original version of the game was spot on and the controls are workable, the enhanced mode just left a lot to be desired. I think for me it was the almost haphazard way the bolts of lightning you shoot (instead of missiles) streak out, which makes it very hard to time your shots. It’s not a horrible game, but it’s one you definitely want to try before you buy.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE – PART 2

There’s a lot of ground to cover today, so I’m going to dispense with the history lessons this week and just give you the release information for these two titles. Let’s get to it.

Title: Sonic the Hedgehog
Developer:
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E10 (Everyone 10+)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Sonic, the fastest blue hedgehog on earth, will rocket through hair-raising loop-de-loops and take dizzying dives past bubbling lava, waterfalls and more in Sonic the Hedgehog Arcade. Gather up the rings and stop Dr.Eggman’s (aka Dr. Robotnik) schemes for world domination!

• Enhanced version: Newly enhanced graphics bring this 1991 console classic to life as never before. Once again, you can thrill to Sonic’s adventures, but this time in an updated environment.
• Leaderboards: Top Score leaderboards are there to keep track of your progress.
• All new achievements: Twelve new achievements, range from simple such as clearing the Green Hill Zone or collecting one hundred rings, to more challenging, such as trying to complete the game without losing a life.” – Xbox.com

Title: Golden Axe
Developer: Secret Level
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: Not Available
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Three mighty heroes have a score to settle with the evil Death Adder in this classic action game, now adapted for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. As a powerful fighter, a female Amazon, or a mighty dwarf, fight through Adder’s henchmen with weapon and magic attacks, or ride the fearsome, fire-breathing dragon in Golden Axe.

• Enhanced graphics and sound: Relive all those classic arcade moments with an adaptation of one of the most important arcade games released. Golden Axe is one of SEGA’s most treasured brands, and they’ve treated this classic well, with updated graphics and sound effects.
• Leaderboards: Two high score leaderboards are used, one for Normal, and one for Hardcore play.
• Multiplayer capability: Now you and a friend can join in on the action.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements are included to master, ranging from the easy such as playing every character, to the difficult, such as winning the game without having to use a continue.” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s release, Missile Command, I’ve got to say that I was a little disappointed by it. While the original version of the game was spot on and the controls are workable, the enhanced mode just left a lot to be desired. I think for me it was the almost haphazard way the bolts of lightning you shoot (instead of missiles) streak out, which makes it very hard to time your shots. It’s not a horrible game, but it’s one you definitely want to try before you buy.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE – PART 2

There’s a lot of ground to cover today, so I’m going to dispense with the history lessons this week and just give you the release information for these two titles. Let’s get to it.

Title: Sonic the Hedgehog
Developer:
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E10 (Everyone 10+)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Sonic, the fastest blue hedgehog on earth, will rocket through hair-raising loop-de-loops and take dizzying dives past bubbling lava, waterfalls and more in Sonic the Hedgehog Arcade. Gather up the rings and stop Dr.Eggman’s (aka Dr. Robotnik) schemes for world domination!

• Enhanced version: Newly enhanced graphics bring this 1991 console classic to life as never before. Once again, you can thrill to Sonic’s adventures, but this time in an updated environment.
• Leaderboards: Top Score leaderboards are there to keep track of your progress.
• All new achievements: Twelve new achievements, range from simple such as clearing the Green Hill Zone or collecting one hundred rings, to more challenging, such as trying to complete the game without losing a life.” – Xbox.com

Title: Golden Axe
Developer: Secret Level
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: Not Available
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Three mighty heroes have a score to settle with the evil Death Adder in this classic action game, now adapted for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. As a powerful fighter, a female Amazon, or a mighty dwarf, fight through Adder’s henchmen with weapon and magic attacks, or ride the fearsome, fire-breathing dragon in Golden Axe.

• Enhanced graphics and sound: Relive all those classic arcade moments with an adaptation of one of the most important arcade games released. Golden Axe is one of SEGA’s most treasured brands, and they’ve treated this classic well, with updated graphics and sound effects.
• Leaderboards: Two high score leaderboards are used, one for Normal, and one for Hardcore play.
• Multiplayer capability: Now you and a friend can join in on the action.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements are included to master, ranging from the easy such as playing every character, to the difficult, such as winning the game without having to use a continue.” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s release, Missile Command, I’ve got to say that I was a little disappointed by it. While the original version of the game was spot on and the controls are workable, the enhanced mode just left a lot to be desired. I think for me it was the almost haphazard way the bolts of lightning you shoot (instead of missiles) streak out, which makes it very hard to time your shots. It’s not a horrible game, but it’s one you definitely want to try before you buy.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE – PART 2

There’s a lot of ground to cover today, so I’m going to dispense with the history lessons this week and just give you the release information for these two titles. Let’s get to it.

Title: Sonic the Hedgehog
Developer:
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E10 (Everyone 10+)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Sonic, the fastest blue hedgehog on earth, will rocket through hair-raising loop-de-loops and take dizzying dives past bubbling lava, waterfalls and more in Sonic the Hedgehog Arcade. Gather up the rings and stop Dr.Eggman’s (aka Dr. Robotnik) schemes for world domination!

• Enhanced version: Newly enhanced graphics bring this 1991 console classic to life as never before. Once again, you can thrill to Sonic’s adventures, but this time in an updated environment.
• Leaderboards: Top Score leaderboards are there to keep track of your progress.
• All new achievements: Twelve new achievements, range from simple such as clearing the Green Hill Zone or collecting one hundred rings, to more challenging, such as trying to complete the game without losing a life.” – Xbox.com

Title: Golden Axe
Developer: Secret Level
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: Not Available
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Three mighty heroes have a score to settle with the evil Death Adder in this classic action game, now adapted for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. As a powerful fighter, a female Amazon, or a mighty dwarf, fight through Adder’s henchmen with weapon and magic attacks, or ride the fearsome, fire-breathing dragon in Golden Axe.

• Enhanced graphics and sound: Relive all those classic arcade moments with an adaptation of one of the most important arcade games released. Golden Axe is one of SEGA’s most treasured brands, and they’ve treated this classic well, with updated graphics and sound effects.
• Leaderboards: Two high score leaderboards are used, one for Normal, and one for Hardcore play.
• Multiplayer capability: Now you and a friend can join in on the action.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements are included to master, ranging from the easy such as playing every character, to the difficult, such as winning the game without having to use a continue.” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s release, Missile Command, I’ve got to say that I was a little disappointed by it. While the original version of the game was spot on and the controls are workable, the enhanced mode just left a lot to be desired. I think for me it was the almost haphazard way the bolts of lightning you shoot (instead of missiles) streak out, which makes it very hard to time your shots. It’s not a horrible game, but it’s one you definitely want to try before you buy.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE – PART 2

There’s a lot of ground to cover today, so I’m going to dispense with the history lessons this week and just give you the release information for these two titles. Let’s get to it.

Title: Sonic the Hedgehog
Developer:
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E10 (Everyone 10+)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Sonic, the fastest blue hedgehog on earth, will rocket through hair-raising loop-de-loops and take dizzying dives past bubbling lava, waterfalls and more in Sonic the Hedgehog Arcade. Gather up the rings and stop Dr.Eggman’s (aka Dr. Robotnik) schemes for world domination!

• Enhanced version: Newly enhanced graphics bring this 1991 console classic to life as never before. Once again, you can thrill to Sonic’s adventures, but this time in an updated environment.
• Leaderboards: Top Score leaderboards are there to keep track of your progress.
• All new achievements: Twelve new achievements, range from simple such as clearing the Green Hill Zone or collecting one hundred rings, to more challenging, such as trying to complete the game without losing a life.” – Xbox.com

Title: Golden Axe
Developer: Secret Level
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: Not Available
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Three mighty heroes have a score to settle with the evil Death Adder in this classic action game, now adapted for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. As a powerful fighter, a female Amazon, or a mighty dwarf, fight through Adder’s henchmen with weapon and magic attacks, or ride the fearsome, fire-breathing dragon in Golden Axe.

• Enhanced graphics and sound: Relive all those classic arcade moments with an adaptation of one of the most important arcade games released. Golden Axe is one of SEGA’s most treasured brands, and they’ve treated this classic well, with updated graphics and sound effects.
• Leaderboards: Two high score leaderboards are used, one for Normal, and one for Hardcore play.
• Multiplayer capability: Now you and a friend can join in on the action.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements are included to master, ranging from the easy such as playing every character, to the difficult, such as winning the game without having to use a continue.” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s release, Missile Command, I’ve got to say that I was a little disappointed by it. While the original version of the game was spot on and the controls are workable, the enhanced mode just left a lot to be desired. I think for me it was the almost haphazard way the bolts of lightning you shoot (instead of missiles) streak out, which makes it very hard to time your shots. It’s not a horrible game, but it’s one you definitely want to try before you buy.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE – PART 2

There’s a lot of ground to cover today, so I’m going to dispense with the history lessons this week and just give you the release information for these two titles. Let’s get to it.

Title: Sonic the Hedgehog
Developer:
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E10 (Everyone 10+)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Sonic, the fastest blue hedgehog on earth, will rocket through hair-raising loop-de-loops and take dizzying dives past bubbling lava, waterfalls and more in Sonic the Hedgehog Arcade. Gather up the rings and stop Dr.Eggman’s (aka Dr. Robotnik) schemes for world domination!

• Enhanced version: Newly enhanced graphics bring this 1991 console classic to life as never before. Once again, you can thrill to Sonic’s adventures, but this time in an updated environment.
• Leaderboards: Top Score leaderboards are there to keep track of your progress.
• All new achievements: Twelve new achievements, range from simple such as clearing the Green Hill Zone or collecting one hundred rings, to more challenging, such as trying to complete the game without losing a life.” – Xbox.com

Title: Golden Axe
Developer: Secret Level
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: Not Available
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Three mighty heroes have a score to settle with the evil Death Adder in this classic action game, now adapted for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. As a powerful fighter, a female Amazon, or a mighty dwarf, fight through Adder’s henchmen with weapon and magic attacks, or ride the fearsome, fire-breathing dragon in Golden Axe.

• Enhanced graphics and sound: Relive all those classic arcade moments with an adaptation of one of the most important arcade games released. Golden Axe is one of SEGA’s most treasured brands, and they’ve treated this classic well, with updated graphics and sound effects.
• Leaderboards: Two high score leaderboards are used, one for Normal, and one for Hardcore play.
• Multiplayer capability: Now you and a friend can join in on the action.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements are included to master, ranging from the easy such as playing every character, to the difficult, such as winning the game without having to use a continue.” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s release, Missile Command, I’ve got to say that I was a little disappointed by it. While the original version of the game was spot on and the controls are workable, the enhanced mode just left a lot to be desired. I think for me it was the almost haphazard way the bolts of lightning you shoot (instead of missiles) streak out, which makes it very hard to time your shots. It’s not a horrible game, but it’s one you definitely want to try before you buy.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE – PART 2

There’s a lot of ground to cover today, so I’m going to dispense with the history lessons this week and just give you the release information for these two titles. Let’s get to it.

Title: Sonic the Hedgehog
Developer:
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E10 (Everyone 10+)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Sonic, the fastest blue hedgehog on earth, will rocket through hair-raising loop-de-loops and take dizzying dives past bubbling lava, waterfalls and more in Sonic the Hedgehog Arcade. Gather up the rings and stop Dr.Eggman’s (aka Dr. Robotnik) schemes for world domination!

• Enhanced version: Newly enhanced graphics bring this 1991 console classic to life as never before. Once again, you can thrill to Sonic’s adventures, but this time in an updated environment.
• Leaderboards: Top Score leaderboards are there to keep track of your progress.
• All new achievements: Twelve new achievements, range from simple such as clearing the Green Hill Zone or collecting one hundred rings, to more challenging, such as trying to complete the game without losing a life.” – Xbox.com

Title: Golden Axe
Developer: Secret Level
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: Not Available
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Three mighty heroes have a score to settle with the evil Death Adder in this classic action game, now adapted for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. As a powerful fighter, a female Amazon, or a mighty dwarf, fight through Adder’s henchmen with weapon and magic attacks, or ride the fearsome, fire-breathing dragon in Golden Axe.

• Enhanced graphics and sound: Relive all those classic arcade moments with an adaptation of one of the most important arcade games released. Golden Axe is one of SEGA’s most treasured brands, and they’ve treated this classic well, with updated graphics and sound effects.
• Leaderboards: Two high score leaderboards are used, one for Normal, and one for Hardcore play.
• Multiplayer capability: Now you and a friend can join in on the action.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements are included to master, ranging from the easy such as playing every character, to the difficult, such as winning the game without having to use a continue.” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s release, Missile Command, I’ve got to say that I was a little disappointed by it. While the original version of the game was spot on and the controls are workable, the enhanced mode just left a lot to be desired. I think for me it was the almost haphazard way the bolts of lightning you shoot (instead of missiles) streak out, which makes it very hard to time your shots. It’s not a horrible game, but it’s one you definitely want to try before you buy.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE – PART 2

There’s a lot of ground to cover today, so I’m going to dispense with the history lessons this week and just give you the release information for these two titles. Let’s get to it.

Title: Sonic the Hedgehog
Developer:
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E10 (Everyone 10+)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Sonic, the fastest blue hedgehog on earth, will rocket through hair-raising loop-de-loops and take dizzying dives past bubbling lava, waterfalls and more in Sonic the Hedgehog Arcade. Gather up the rings and stop Dr.Eggman’s (aka Dr. Robotnik) schemes for world domination!

• Enhanced version: Newly enhanced graphics bring this 1991 console classic to life as never before. Once again, you can thrill to Sonic’s adventures, but this time in an updated environment.
• Leaderboards: Top Score leaderboards are there to keep track of your progress.
• All new achievements: Twelve new achievements, range from simple such as clearing the Green Hill Zone or collecting one hundred rings, to more challenging, such as trying to complete the game without losing a life.” – Xbox.com

Title: Golden Axe
Developer: Secret Level
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: Not Available
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Three mighty heroes have a score to settle with the evil Death Adder in this classic action game, now adapted for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. As a powerful fighter, a female Amazon, or a mighty dwarf, fight through Adder’s henchmen with weapon and magic attacks, or ride the fearsome, fire-breathing dragon in Golden Axe.

• Enhanced graphics and sound: Relive all those classic arcade moments with an adaptation of one of the most important arcade games released. Golden Axe is one of SEGA’s most treasured brands, and they’ve treated this classic well, with updated graphics and sound effects.
• Leaderboards: Two high score leaderboards are used, one for Normal, and one for Hardcore play.
• Multiplayer capability: Now you and a friend can join in on the action.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements are included to master, ranging from the easy such as playing every character, to the difficult, such as winning the game without having to use a continue.” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s release, Missile Command, I’ve got to say that I was a little disappointed by it. While the original version of the game was spot on and the controls are workable, the enhanced mode just left a lot to be desired. I think for me it was the almost haphazard way the bolts of lightning you shoot (instead of missiles) streak out, which makes it very hard to time your shots. It’s not a horrible game, but it’s one you definitely want to try before you buy.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE – PART 2

There’s a lot of ground to cover today, so I’m going to dispense with the history lessons this week and just give you the release information for these two titles. Let’s get to it.

Title: Sonic the Hedgehog
Developer:
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E10 (Everyone 10+)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Sonic, the fastest blue hedgehog on earth, will rocket through hair-raising loop-de-loops and take dizzying dives past bubbling lava, waterfalls and more in Sonic the Hedgehog Arcade. Gather up the rings and stop Dr.Eggman’s (aka Dr. Robotnik) schemes for world domination!

• Enhanced version: Newly enhanced graphics bring this 1991 console classic to life as never before. Once again, you can thrill to Sonic’s adventures, but this time in an updated environment.
• Leaderboards: Top Score leaderboards are there to keep track of your progress.
• All new achievements: Twelve new achievements, range from simple such as clearing the Green Hill Zone or collecting one hundred rings, to more challenging, such as trying to complete the game without losing a life.” – Xbox.com

Title: Golden Axe
Developer: Secret Level
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: Not Available
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Three mighty heroes have a score to settle with the evil Death Adder in this classic action game, now adapted for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. As a powerful fighter, a female Amazon, or a mighty dwarf, fight through Adder’s henchmen with weapon and magic attacks, or ride the fearsome, fire-breathing dragon in Golden Axe.

• Enhanced graphics and sound: Relive all those classic arcade moments with an adaptation of one of the most important arcade games released. Golden Axe is one of SEGA’s most treasured brands, and they’ve treated this classic well, with updated graphics and sound effects.
• Leaderboards: Two high score leaderboards are used, one for Normal, and one for Hardcore play.
• Multiplayer capability: Now you and a friend can join in on the action.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements are included to master, ranging from the easy such as playing every character, to the difficult, such as winning the game without having to use a continue.” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s release, Missile Command, I’ve got to say that I was a little disappointed by it. While the original version of the game was spot on and the controls are workable, the enhanced mode just left a lot to be desired. I think for me it was the almost haphazard way the bolts of lightning you shoot (instead of missiles) streak out, which makes it very hard to time your shots. It’s not a horrible game, but it’s one you definitely want to try before you buy.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE – PART 2

There’s a lot of ground to cover today, so I’m going to dispense with the history lessons this week and just give you the release information for these two titles. Let’s get to it.

Title: Sonic the Hedgehog
Developer:
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E10 (Everyone 10+)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Sonic, the fastest blue hedgehog on earth, will rocket through hair-raising loop-de-loops and take dizzying dives past bubbling lava, waterfalls and more in Sonic the Hedgehog Arcade. Gather up the rings and stop Dr.Eggman’s (aka Dr. Robotnik) schemes for world domination!

• Enhanced version: Newly enhanced graphics bring this 1991 console classic to life as never before. Once again, you can thrill to Sonic’s adventures, but this time in an updated environment.
• Leaderboards: Top Score leaderboards are there to keep track of your progress.
• All new achievements: Twelve new achievements, range from simple such as clearing the Green Hill Zone or collecting one hundred rings, to more challenging, such as trying to complete the game without losing a life.” – Xbox.com

Title: Golden Axe
Developer: Secret Level
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/11/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: Not Available
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“Three mighty heroes have a score to settle with the evil Death Adder in this classic action game, now adapted for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. As a powerful fighter, a female Amazon, or a mighty dwarf, fight through Adder’s henchmen with weapon and magic attacks, or ride the fearsome, fire-breathing dragon in Golden Axe.

• Enhanced graphics and sound: Relive all those classic arcade moments with an adaptation of one of the most important arcade games released. Golden Axe is one of SEGA’s most treasured brands, and they’ve treated this classic well, with updated graphics and sound effects.
• Leaderboards: Two high score leaderboards are used, one for Normal, and one for Hardcore play.
• Multiplayer capability: Now you and a friend can join in on the action.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements are included to master, ranging from the easy such as playing every character, to the difficult, such as winning the game without having to use a continue.” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s release, Missile Command, I’ve got to say that I was a little disappointed by it. While the original version of the game was spot on and the controls are workable, the enhanced mode just left a lot to be desired. I think for me it was the almost haphazard way the bolts of lightning you shoot (instead of missiles) streak out, which makes it very hard to time your shots. It’s not a horrible game, but it’s one you definitely want to try before you buy.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE

As announced at the Microsoft E3 press briefing, both Sonic the Hedgehog and Golden Axe are now available for purchase via the Xbox Live Marketplace at a cost of 400 points ($5) each. It’s been a long evening and there’s currently no product information on either game at Xbox.com, so I’m going to cut this post short and talk more about both titles tomorrow.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE

As announced at the Microsoft E3 press briefing, both Sonic the Hedgehog and Golden Axe are now available for purchase via the Xbox Live Marketplace at a cost of 400 points ($5) each. It’s been a long evening and there’s currently no product information on either game at Xbox.com, so I’m going to cut this post short and talk more about both titles tomorrow.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE

As announced at the Microsoft E3 press briefing, both Sonic the Hedgehog and Golden Axe are now available for purchase via the Xbox Live Marketplace at a cost of 400 points ($5) each. It’s been a long evening and there’s currently no product information on either game at Xbox.com, so I’m going to cut this post short and talk more about both titles tomorrow.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE

As announced at the Microsoft E3 press briefing, both Sonic the Hedgehog and Golden Axe are now available for purchase via the Xbox Live Marketplace at a cost of 400 points ($5) each. It’s been a long evening and there’s currently no product information on either game at Xbox.com, so I’m going to cut this post short and talk more about both titles tomorrow.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE

As announced at the Microsoft E3 press briefing, both Sonic the Hedgehog and Golden Axe are now available for purchase via the Xbox Live Marketplace at a cost of 400 points ($5) each. It’s been a long evening and there’s currently no product information on either game at Xbox.com, so I’m going to cut this post short and talk more about both titles tomorrow.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE

As announced at the Microsoft E3 press briefing, both Sonic the Hedgehog and Golden Axe are now available for purchase via the Xbox Live Marketplace at a cost of 400 points ($5) each. It’s been a long evening and there’s currently no product information on either game at Xbox.com, so I’m going to cut this post short and talk more about both titles tomorrow.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE

As announced at the Microsoft E3 press briefing, both Sonic the Hedgehog and Golden Axe are now available for purchase via the Xbox Live Marketplace at a cost of 400 points ($5) each. It’s been a long evening and there’s currently no product information on either game at Xbox.com, so I’m going to cut this post short and talk more about both titles tomorrow.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE

As announced at the Microsoft E3 press briefing, both Sonic the Hedgehog and Golden Axe are now available for purchase via the Xbox Live Marketplace at a cost of 400 points ($5) each. It’s been a long evening and there’s currently no product information on either game at Xbox.com, so I’m going to cut this post short and talk more about both titles tomorrow.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE

As announced at the Microsoft E3 press briefing, both Sonic the Hedgehog and Golden Axe are now available for purchase via the Xbox Live Marketplace at a cost of 400 points ($5) each. It’s been a long evening and there’s currently no product information on either game at Xbox.com, so I’m going to cut this post short and talk more about both titles tomorrow.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE

As announced at the Microsoft E3 press briefing, both Sonic the Hedgehog and Golden Axe are now available for purchase via the Xbox Live Marketplace at a cost of 400 points ($5) each. It’s been a long evening and there’s currently no product information on either game at Xbox.com, so I’m going to cut this post short and talk more about both titles tomorrow.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE

As announced at the Microsoft E3 press briefing, both Sonic the Hedgehog and Golden Axe are now available for purchase via the Xbox Live Marketplace at a cost of 400 points ($5) each. It’s been a long evening and there’s currently no product information on either game at Xbox.com, so I’m going to cut this post short and talk more about both titles tomorrow.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE

As announced at the Microsoft E3 press briefing, both Sonic the Hedgehog and Golden Axe are now available for purchase via the Xbox Live Marketplace at a cost of 400 points ($5) each. It’s been a long evening and there’s currently no product information on either game at Xbox.com, so I’m going to cut this post short and talk more about both titles tomorrow.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE

As announced at the Microsoft E3 press briefing, both Sonic the Hedgehog and Golden Axe are now available for purchase via the Xbox Live Marketplace at a cost of 400 points ($5) each. It’s been a long evening and there’s currently no product information on either game at Xbox.com, so I’m going to cut this post short and talk more about both titles tomorrow.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE

As announced at the Microsoft E3 press briefing, both Sonic the Hedgehog and Golden Axe are now available for purchase via the Xbox Live Marketplace at a cost of 400 points ($5) each. It’s been a long evening and there’s currently no product information on either game at Xbox.com, so I’m going to cut this post short and talk more about both titles tomorrow.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE

As announced at the Microsoft E3 press briefing, both Sonic the Hedgehog and Golden Axe are now available for purchase via the Xbox Live Marketplace at a cost of 400 points ($5) each. It’s been a long evening and there’s currently no product information on either game at Xbox.com, so I’m going to cut this post short and talk more about both titles tomorrow.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – SONIC THE HEDGEHOG & GOLDEN AXE

As announced at the Microsoft E3 press briefing, both Sonic the Hedgehog and Golden Axe are now available for purchase via the Xbox Live Marketplace at a cost of 400 points ($5) each. It’s been a long evening and there’s currently no product information on either game at Xbox.com, so I’m going to cut this post short and talk more about both titles tomorrow.

PLAYSTATION 3 ARMORED CORE 4 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

Sony really needs to set up some website or blog where you can go to see what’s going on in the PlayStation Store, as I really have no idea how long this demo has been available beyond saying that it wasn’t there last week. While I’m griping about the PlayStation Store, I also feel the need to say they really need to organize things better – nothing is more frustrating than not finding what you want right away because you had to surf through pages of stuff you couldn’t possibly care about.

I’ll cut my griping short now and get on with the news – a demo of Armored Core 4 for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. The demo weighs in at 991mb and includes 3 single player missions. (If you’ve already downloaded the Xbox 360 version of the demo via the Marketplace, you may want to skip this one as it’s the same demo)

SEGA ANNOUNCES NIGHTS: JOURNEY OF DREAMS

The rumors were true – Sega has announced that a sequel to the Saturn classic NiGHTS: Into Dreams is now in development for the Nintendo Wii. Not much is known about NiGHTS: Journey of Dreams at this point beyond the fact that it’ll be on the Wii, it will support one or two players and most importantly, it’s slated for release this holiday season.

"The critically-acclaimed franchise that gave gamers the freedom to fly in a world of dreams is coming to the Wii™! As a fantasy jester called NiGHTS, you will experience a heightened sense of gliding, spiraling, and looping through seven extraordinary worlds of Nightopia where the ocean resides in the sky and glass-formed cliffs overlook a castle of mirrors. When the “Nightmarens” from the neighboring dark world of Nightmare infiltrate the idyllic Nightopia, NiGHTS must defend the dream world to keep it safe for all dreamers. This holiday, NiGHTS: Journey of Dreams will take you in a voyage filled with courage, hope and inspiration." – Sega

I now have a reason to buy a Wii – so long as Sega doesn’t take this one down the same road they’ve been taking the Sonic franchise.

• NiGHTS: Journey of Dreams – Sega.com
• NiGHTS: Into Dreams – Wikipedia Entry

SEGA ANNOUNCES NIGHTS: JOURNEY OF DREAMS

The rumors were true – Sega has announced that a sequel to the Saturn classic NiGHTS: Into Dreams is now in development for the Nintendo Wii. Not much is known about NiGHTS: Journey of Dreams at this point beyond the fact that it’ll be on the Wii, it will support one or two players and most importantly, it’s slated for release this holiday season.

"The critically-acclaimed franchise that gave gamers the freedom to fly in a world of dreams is coming to the Wii™! As a fantasy jester called NiGHTS, you will experience a heightened sense of gliding, spiraling, and looping through seven extraordinary worlds of Nightopia where the ocean resides in the sky and glass-formed cliffs overlook a castle of mirrors. When the “Nightmarens” from the neighboring dark world of Nightmare infiltrate the idyllic Nightopia, NiGHTS must defend the dream world to keep it safe for all dreamers. This holiday, NiGHTS: Journey of Dreams will take you in a voyage filled with courage, hope and inspiration." – Sega

I now have a reason to buy a Wii – so long as Sega doesn’t take this one down the same road they’ve been taking the Sonic franchise.

• NiGHTS: Journey of Dreams – Sega.com
• NiGHTS: Into Dreams – Wikipedia Entry

XBOX 360 ARMORED CORE 4 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

Major Nelson is advising that a demo for Armored Core 4 for the Xbox 360 is now available for download via the Xbox Live Marketplace. The demo weighs in at 791.20mb and is only available in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

XBOX 360 VIRTUA TENNIS 3 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

As you may have gathered from that last post, an Xbox 360 demo of Sega’s Virtua Tennis 3 is now available for download in the Xbox Live Marketplace. The demo is available in all regions except Asia, has no listed Gold/Silver restrictions and weighs in at approximately 849.1mb. Enjoy!

SEGA-16 INTERVIEWS TOM KALINSKE

Sega-16 got a chance to sit down with ex-Sega of America president Tom Kalinske and for the first time get his reflections on the time he spent with the company.

The article really gives a good look at what was happening behind the scenes at Sega during the eras of the Genesis, Sega CD, 32X and Saturn consoles, including some insight into some of the issues between the U.S. and Japanese arms of the company as well as what was behind them.

"I think somewhere in the mid ‘90s – ’94 or ’95 – they built up a great deal of resentment, and I didn’t realize it at the time, until probably the latter part of 1995, when one of my colleagues in Japan, who I knew well and had a good relationship with, said to me something to the effect of “you don’t understand how browbeat and annoyed the Japanese executives here are because of your success. Every meeting we go into, Nakayama asks us why can’t you do things the way the Americans and Europeans did? Why aren’t you guys as successful as they are? We’ve been around longer.” I think the local executives didn’t appreciate that he’d take that tone with them. Apparently, he also beat them up over Sonic, which was never as successful in Japan as it was in the U.S. and Europe (to this day, that’s the case), and I think he was always throwing that in their faces too. So clearly, by late ’95 there was great resentment built up: jealously, resentment, and kind of a desire to get back at those Americans that Nakayama kept throwing in their faces." -Tom Kalinske

It’s definitely a good read for anyone who’s into video game history or was a die-hard Sega fan back in the day. You can check out the full interview here and when you finish, ask yourself if the Dreamcast might have fared better had Kalinske remained with Sega.

FREE DOWNLOADABLE CONTENT FOR CHROMEHOUNDS

Sega has released a new free downloadable content pack for Chromehounds on the Xbox 360. The content pack includes 2 light arms, 2 heavy arms, 1 assist part and 1 new color scheme. The pack can be downloaded via the Xbox Live Marketplace.

IGN DREAMCAST RELAUNCHES

Before you get your hopes up, no the beloved Sega Dreamcast is not coming back from the dead. IGN is however, relaunching their Dreamcast site to commemorate the little console that could. While they freely admit there won’t be much in the way of fresh news on the site, they do plan on going back and re-rating all 250+ Dreamcast games to see how well they’ve stood the test of time. When discussing why they’re doing it, they gave the following 10 reasons;

10. Our soul still burns
9. Samba de Amigo is proof the Wii is not revolutionary
8. Some wrongs (Oooga Booga – 9.4) must be righted
7. They wouldn’t let us relaunch IGN Xbox 360
6. People (three of them) have been begging for this!
5. Ulala came to us in a dream and told us this was our destiny
4. Needed to justify bringing “mascot hedgehog” into the office
3. The Dreamcast didn’t fail, we failed the Dreamcast
2. It’s what Jesus would do (if he were a gamer and didn’t have to die for our sins)
1. We’re total idiots

#3 – so true, so true. Dreamcast, we hardly knew you. Click here to head over to IGN Dreamcast.

VIRTUA FIGHTER 5 TO BE PS3 EXCLUSIVE

Gamespot is reporting that the next chapter in Sega’s Virtua Fighter franchise, Virtua Fighter 5, will be appearing exclusively on the Playstation 3.

SEGA RUMORED TO BE BRINGING NIGHTS TO THE REVOLUTION

Apparently at this point it’s nothing more than a unconfirmed rumor in Famitsu magazine being reported at Racketboy.com, but it appears that there may be a sequel to the Saturn classic NiGHTS: Into Dreams coming to the Nintendo Revolution.

I remember NiGHTS from back in the day, and think it would be amazing to see the game in full, free roaming 3D. Click here for more information.