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August 20, 2008
Virtual Pet? I'm All Over it!
Sony knows a thing or two when it comes to virtual pets (cough: AIbo) but since that pooch was neutered, there's been a void in my heart. Thank Jebus for EyePet, an upcoming virtual pet baby monkey(?) for the PS3. You do need an Eye Toycamera to get into action but for a Tamagotchi addict like myself, extra peripherals are no issue. If it's as responsive as the video, I'm sold! 2009 is way too far away. Do want!
Posted by tranism at 11:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
July 24, 2008
It's about frackin' time
The Wii is finally getting a really good charger. Sure there are options from Nyko but it takes forever, the technology isn't very smart, and you have to remove the controller from its protective silicon jacket which is a chore - trust me.
Nintendo teamed up with Sanyo to use their eneloop battery technology (best batteries IMHO) to create a solution that not only allows charging with silicon on, but smart enough to be daisy chained for sequential charging. Eneloop batteries are also far more environmentally safe than other lithium ions. Unfortunately you won't find it outside Japan for awhile.
Any readers in Japan willing to ship me the unit if I pay for everything?
via Akihabaranews
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May 9, 2008
Little Big Planet Trailer Happy
This game is still on my top 5 must haves this year.
Posted by tranism at 6:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
May 4, 2008
Echochrome Mind Boggling And Puzzling
Just what is Echochrome. The PS3 downloadable game is a little difficult to understand without actually playing it. Yeah, it's one of those types. The simplistic graphics inspired by MC Escher's work is really a ploy to make you think it's a lot easier than it looks. Truth be told, the 54 puzzling levels will have you questioning spacial relationships between you and your environment since what you see tends to be the limit of your reality until you decide to look at it from another angle - literally.
In Echochrome you control the camera and perspective, not the character. Guiding this mannequin figure by carefully tilting and turning the level to create a continual pathway allowing your mannequin to get from point A to B safely.
That's about as simple as I can put it. You really have to play it to understand the experience. Hit the jump for more pics.
Posted by tranism at 9:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
March 1, 2008
K.K. Slider Found
You may have seen him gleefully strumming away in Nintendo's Animal Crossing but he's not just a low polygon video character. He's real!
Posted by tranism at 3:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
February 27, 2008
Will Wright Explains The Care Bears
The Care Bears are cool, got that? They're creatures of unconditional love, live way above the Earth in a place called Care-a-lot. They have cousins called the Care Bear cousins although they're not Bears at all. In fact they live below the Care Bears in the Forest of Feelings. The Care Bears shoot rainbow particle weapons from their stomachs and can combine to form some death star-like weapon. If that's not enough, the Care Cousins join in and add a sonic boom. Together they enslave the stars.
God the 80's were great!
P.S. If you're wondering who Will Wright is. Why, he's only the person behind small titles like SimCity, SimEarth, SimAnts, The Sims, and a very small upcoming title called SPORE.
Posted by tranism at 10:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
February 15, 2008
Deadly Creatures
This upcoming Wii game called Deadly Creatures has me spraying everything with Lysol and Fabreeze. From what I can tell, you play the role of a creepy crawly fighting to survive in a world of rivals - everything from scorpions, spiders, lizards, snakes, and OMG PEOPLE. Eek! My skin is crawling. Must wash.
via Kotaku
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February 8, 2008
Sack Boy is Real
If you've been following the upcoming PS3 game Little Big Planet, then you know the main character Sack Boy. One of the game developer's mothers liked her son's creation so much that she made a real live one, complete with dragon costume!
ACES! I want one! Mo' after the jump.
Posted by tranism at 3:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
February 5, 2008
Endless Ocean
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February 1, 2008
Nintendo DS Treasure Hunt
Everyday from 10AM-4PM until February 19th, Nintendo DS owners will gather on a tiny island off the coast of Tokyo to participate in the ultimate treasure hunt! Gamers only need register, show up, download the free Treasure Quest game and use it to locate items hidden throughout the island.
It's an awesome mix of real vs virtual worlds. Treasure Quest consists of puzzles you have to complete in order to receive clues. The game makes use of the DS's wireless capabilities to make check-ins and to obtain on-screen scenery matching real world environments. Considering every kid, mom, dad, granny, and dog has a DS in Japan, this treasure hunt could be massive.
via Pink Tentacle
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Patent Reveals Oddball Nintendo Patents
Of the three big game companies Nintendo stands out from the bunch as the weird kid, creative and following his own path. Sometimes you appreciate him, other times you just think he's totally off his rocker. The latest round of patents from Nintendo reveals a slew of Wii-mote accessories. Everything from a bike to a helmet, and my favorite... a teddy bear!
Hey if sticking a Wii-mote in a stuffed bear will make it interactive, sign me up!
See the detailed drawings at Kotaku.
Posted by tranism at 12:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
January 28, 2008
Guitar Hero Super Hacks
The phenomenon known as Guitar Hero allows everyday folk to feel like rock stars in their own living rooms. A homebrew band known as the Guitar Zeros have taken that concept one step further, by rocking out on stage playing original music, all with instruments from the Guitar Hero video game. By writing software that allows them to create thousands of sounds with the Guitar Hero instruments, the Guitar Zeros have proven that they're anything but.
via Current
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December 15, 2007
Final Fantasy XIII Extended
Still the only reason why I'm considering a PS3 purchase - this and perhaps Little Big Planet.
Posted by tranism at 10:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
December 8, 2007
Sony Aibo Is Back And Looking Fierce!
Normally I wouldn't write about rumors but you guys know my love for all things Aibo so when Stuff Magazine leaked a possible resurrection of the robotic pooch redubbed Aibo PS, my jaw dropped. The PS stands for Playstation which Stuff Magazine says Sony will rebrand Aibo as. The new pooch will be decked out in the latest robot tech (take that Pleo) and wirelessly connect to both the PS3 and PSP. Content can be download and shared this way without the need of a computer. It will also allow you to control Aibo via WiFi and see what Aibo sees. Finally real security.
Excitement ensues!
Posted by tranism at 11:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
November 26, 2007
Don't Ask Don't Tell Master Chief
In general the Xbox Live environment is rampant with homophobia and racism. Made of up of mostly males, it seems when protected behind the veil of a screen name, feel free to say whatever they want at the expense of another player's feeling. Be it a type of fraternal joking or is there some truth underlying their comments?
In the case of one gay gamer who decided to come out to his Xbox Live mates by using the gamer tag "xxxGayBoyxxx", it's clear why the Xbox 360 is seen as a hardcore adolescent male dominated virtual space that's neither tolerable or accountable.
Posted by tranism at 2:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)
November 19, 2007
Mario And Nintendo Land On The Moon
Oh snap! They did it! With all those billions, Nintendo managed to put Mario on the moon. No I kid I kid. It's actually a photochop I did of the Super Mario Galaxy launch event in Amsterdam.
via The Tanooki
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November 15, 2007
Super Mario Galaxy Review, Shooting Stars
Hey, you do know Super Mario Galaxy is out right? I've been playing it for a few days now and you know what? I love it! It's awesome, kick-ass, and the best Super Mario game ever! Don't believe me? Read my review over at Binary Joy and find out why I gave Super Mario Galaxy 5 out of 5 stars an no this ain't Star Search.
Posted by tranism at 9:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
November 12, 2007
Physics Never Looked So Fun!
I hate physics. I hate it because I don't understand it which makes me fear it. Especially when I see people creating amazing things like this one called Crayon Physics Deluxe by Kloonigames.
It's played on a tablet PC. The goal is to get a ball to touch the star. You have complete freedom to draw whatever shapes you think will help. You can even link shapes together opening the door to many possibilities and solutions.
Crayon Physics Deluxe is a contender for the Independent Games Festival 2008 but I don't know if it edges out my favorite yet. FEZ FTW!
via Binary Joy
Posted by tranism at 10:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
November 6, 2007
Altair is David Fumero
Did you know Altair from Assassin's Creed is modeled after a real person, who hit it big when he became the face of Jean-Paul Gaultier's 'Le Male' ad, who is non other than soap hunk, model, actor David Fumero!
I knew I loved Assassin's Creed for other reasons beyond gaming. :)
Posted by tranism at 5:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)
Mario And Buzz Aldrin?
If you've been living under a rock, or just not into video games, you may have missed the next Mario game has a celestial theme. In promotion of that, Nintendo sent Mario up into the lower atmosphere to experience weightlessness. Of course being a total noob, Mario needed some guidance so who better than Buzz Aldrin? Remember peeps, Super Mario Galaxy hits store shelves across North America next Monday! I got my pre-order. Do you?
Another picture after the jump.
via The Tanooki
Posted by tranism at 10:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
October 17, 2007
Makes Me Wanna Be An Assassin
The latest demo of Assassin's Creed has me praying to the game gods this game will not be delayed from its November release. The protagonist, Altar just killed a high ranking official and uses every arsenal within his disposal to escape. The game engine's crowd simulation, seamless blending of cinematic and live action, and sound design looks flawless. It was like watching a damn movie! I did notice some frame rate hiccups so I hope Ubisoft smooths that out. This game is a definite first day buy.
Posted by tranism at 5:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
October 12, 2007
Fez
This morning I got an email from one of the team members working on an indie game called Fez. After watching the trailer, I'm intrigued. The main character is Gomez, a 2-dimensional being who one day realizes his world has an extra dimension, and sets out to explore it. The game itself uses a cool rendering engine the people behind Fez, an organization called Kokomori developed themselves. The heart of this technology is called trixels.
This gives the world of Fez a very 2D isometric look and feel when in reality everything is rendered in 3D. The world can turn and pivot, similar to Paper Mario on the Wii. That could present some interesting puzzles and platforming challenges.
The game was built using Microsoft's XNA for PC tho that means it's technically feasible to get it running on the XBOX 360. Hopefully we'll see more of the game at the upcoming Independent Games Festival.
Posted by tranism at 6:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
October 11, 2007
Link vs. Sonic
Who will win? Watching this demo of Super Smash Brothers Brawl only angers me that I have to wail til' February of next year to play it. The game runs at 480p widescreen at a smooth 60fps. That frame rate really helps with the particle effects and animations. Just look at that stage, which is really a ship, fly thru wormholes right into a battle! Sonic looks beastly when he transforms into Super Sonic and Link, well Link is gettin' a hedgehog beat down. The game will also have online capabilities so we here at Electro^Plankton will definitely bring the pain as we plan online tournaments with you readers!
Let me know if the video won't play.
Posted by tranism at 3:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Super Mario Galaxy Reveals Power-ups!
Are you excited or what? Super Mario Galaxy is only a month away from release and my dusty Wii is just aching for something new to play. The latest gameplay video shows off some never before seen worlds, like the sides scrolling stage, paying homage to Mario of yesteryear. But the real treat is the reveal of Mario's power-ups. We knew about the honey bee, the boo ghost suit, the classic fire flower, invincibility star, but some new additions are a bouncy spring, and ice which essentially turns Mario into iceman. Dammit, I want this game like yesterday.
via Jeux-France
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October 8, 2007
Haka Rabbids
In promotion for the upcoming Rayman Raving Rabbid 2 game for the Nintendo Wii, Ubisoft has been steadily releasing silly videos to their viral video campaign. The latest one has the Rabbids poking fun at the New Zealand rugby players which ends in a little towel snapping scene at the end.
Posted by tranism at 4:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
October 2, 2007
Super Mario Galaxy Officially Ends My Halo Fever
I've been heavily immersed in Halo this past week but this morning Nintendo released the opening prologue trailer from the upcoming, MUST HAVE game, Super Mario Galaxy. Oh man, the happy colorful feelings, the return of the pirate airships from Super Mario Bros. 3, and hearing the music with full orchestral arrangement brought back all kinds of nostalgic feelings. November 12 can't come any sooner. I need this game NOW.
Posted by tranism at 9:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
September 26, 2007
Strange Halo 3 Convo
As the world (America) goes nutsy koo-koo over Halo 3, I got my go at it yesterday and coming from a non-FPS fan, I like it. The graphics are much more polished compared to the jank demo I played months ago and online campaigns are fun - despite the sea of 14 year olds hurling curses at me. It's a solid game that doesn't stray from the Halo formula; more maps, more weapons, more explosions. Of course I am sick and tired of not knowing what Master Chief looks like. I've come to the conclusion he's got a rockin' bod but definitely hurtin' in the face department. But in the back of my mind, I'm hoping he is the hot spartan soldier I dream of - the kind that does a lot without saying much.
Posted by tranism at 1:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
September 22, 2007
Project O Trailer
If you can imagine a game that combines elements from Animal Crossing, Harvest Moon, Pikmin, and World of Warcraft - you'd might get something like Project O for the Nintendo Wii. Tho still in development, the first trailer was shown at the Tokyo Game Show and let me say it has me wanting more. Knights riding cows, boy Kings, strategy, and an irresistible art style - need I say more?
via Kotaku
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August 28, 2007
Zack & Wiki: Quest for Barbaros' Treasure
There are three Wii games I'm picking up this year. Metroid 3, Super Mario Galaxy, and this beautifully cell shaded point and click adventure game, Zack & Wiki formally known as Treasure Island-Z. I had the awesome opportunity to play thru a demo and I will say right now, this is the game that really showcases the motion sensing abilities of the Wii-mote.
You play as a pirate boy name Zack accompanied by his trusty monkey sidekick Wiki who happens to turn into a giant ringing bell used for attack. Intrigued? Read on.
The game starts out with a fun cut scene of Zack and Wiki on their pirate ship when some hijackers blow up the ship. They end up on an island and discover a golden skull of the pirate Barbaros. The pirate tells them his body is spread throughout the island in treasure chests, thus begins the adventure.
Each level or world takes the form of a series of complex puzzles you have to solve. This harkens back to the old days of point and click adventure games. All of the puzzles require you to manipulate the Wii-mote to simulate different tools or actions, like a grappling arm or moving blocks. Don't be fooled by the cutesy graphics. The animation is beautifully rendered. The music and sound fx totally immerse you into this wacky world. I can tell you now, if you pass up this game, you're really missing out.
I haven't had this much fun in a long time. Zack & Wiki: Quest for Barbaros' Treasure hits store shelves this October.
Posted by tranism at 11:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
August 23, 2007
Sony's Playstation Booth Is Shitty
Seriously, how does this affect the image of gamers in the public eye?
Posted by tranism at 2:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
August 20, 2007
10x Better Than A Crane Game
Japan has all the cool stuff. Just look at this photo. Number one, this is a crane game but instead of a crane, you have a robot. When you insert your hard earned money, instead of 2 or 3 tries to grab something, you control the robot in a race against the clock. How freakin' awesome is that?
On another note, everything in Japan is "cutesified" to the extreme. Just check out that Shrek doll down front. Way cuter than what we have here in the States.
Posted by tranism at 11:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
August 8, 2007
Classic Nintendo Games On iPhone
Yes somebody has written an NES emulator for the iPhone. The interface is pretty slick with a portion of the screen simulating the NES controller. It also comes with some of the best NES ROMS pre-installed like Super Mario Bros. and The Legend of Zelda. Unfortunately it requires several software hacks to work and even if you get that far, there's no sound and it runs pretty slower.
Patience people, all in due time. Baby steps. Hit the jump to see it in action.
via New Launches
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July 27, 2007
Resident Evil 5's Chris Redfield
He's back and he's buffed up quite a bit since Code Veronica. Sure the movies have sucked but the video games have always kicked ass. I'm glad to see hottie (can I call a game character that?) Chris returning as the protagonist and hero in Resident Evil 5. Zombies or the Umbrella Corp, he's ready and able. I just wish he were real. Hit the jump for the extended trailer.
Posted by tranism at 2:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (9)
Stick Your Head In It, It's First Person Pinball
The Furminator is a pinball machine that puts the player in a first person perspective similar to games like Half Life and Halo. Like being inside a huge VR-helmet, the player's head is stuck into the capsule. His nose is situated right behind the flipper fingers, only centimeters away from the ball. Sealed off from reality and with his head arrested inside a force-feedback-helmet, the sound- and light effects, the mechanical noises of the pinball and the absorbing perspective create a highly immersive mechatronic environment, if not a bit dizzying. Seriously, this is what our parents were afraid of during the height of arcades in the 80's - a bunch of zombie like video game freaks.
Check out the video.
Posted by tranism at 2:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
July 13, 2007
2007 E3 Roundup, Ooh I Like it, Part 1
Yea, this is only a small bite size portion of what all was shown at E3 and it even ain't over yet. I'm glad to see games announced earlier this year are shaping up nicely. There are even a few that rekindled my interests after months of time had dulled it. This E3 also made me realize I'm no longer a fanboy of any one company. There are offerings from each of the 3 big players that I love. Unfortunately, buying all 3 systems means big sad faces all over my banking accounts. Oh wells, you live once.
Hit the jump for some of my picks.
Ratchet & Clank for PS3
I loved the original and sequels on PS2 and had no doubt Insomniac Games would deliver for the next gen iteration. The environments are VAST, we're talkin' HUGE here. Everything is interactive. Things are happening and moving everywhere, a testament to the PS3's horsepower. Classic Ratchet & Clank platforming at its best. Visually the whole thing looks like a fantastic cartoon. LOVE.
Assassin's Creed for PS3 & Xbox 360
I had mixed feelings about Assassin's Creed when I first saw it last year. I figured it was just a Prince of Persia clone with some Tom Clancy sneaky type stuff mixed in. Ubisoft proved me wrong. The crowd simulation is awesome. The animations are awesome. The battle and fighting mechanics look sexy. The graphics are freakin' awesome. I can't believe the modeled the game's worlds based on historical references, street by street, building by building and all of them are interactive too!
Super Mario Galaxy for Wii
What can I say? I'm a sucker for Mario even tho Nintendo pimps him out left and right. Super Mario Galaxy looks to be the true successor to Mario 64 on the Nintendo 64. Damn, that was almost 10 years ago! I've been waiting for this game since like forever. The concept of planetoid-like worlds, collecting stars that can be used as new weapons, and the new Bee suit have me frothing.
Endless Ocean for Wii
A massive non-game game. Endless Ocean lets you and friends explore vast epic oceans. Visit depths and creatures you didn't even know existed. Endless Ocean has no real objective other than exploring and I'm totally fine by that. The animations looks beautiful. I'm so intrigued.
Too Human for Xbox 360
I played a horrible demo of Too Human last year so I'm glad to see Silicon Knights have rectified much of what was ary. This new trailer shows improved frame rate and reveals just how bad ass a cybernetically enhanced human with a big sword can be. FYI, this game has been in the making for almost 10 years.
Halo Wars for Xbox 360 & PC.
I've never been a fan of Halo. With the exception of a few, first person shooters were never my cup of tea. However I do enjoy the Halo back story and universe so when Halo Wars was announced, I got a little excited. The new gameplay trailer shows just how awesome the Halo universe can be in a real time strategy game. Oooooh I can't wait to control all those Spartans.
Mass Effect for Xbox 360
An epic RPG without all the frilly Japanese stuff. Yes this one was designed in America and I'm loving the Sci-Fi theme. The closest I'll get to playing Battlestar Galactica.
Posted by tranism at 2:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
July 4, 2007
Nintendo Encourages Making Faces
Yes it's true, despite what your mother may have told you about making faces, Nintendo encourages it. This August, Otona No DS Kao Training (Face Training) will hit Japanese store shelves in what could be the next big "casual" game. Face Training utilizes a camera attachment that plugs into the oft ignored Gameboy slot and thru a series of games, exercises your face.
Not sure how powerful the camera is but I can dream. I also see the Homebrew community jumping all over this. If the camera is at least 1.3 megapixels, a lot of fun can be had. No word yet on an international release but I can't imagine why they wouldn't. It fits in with the whole Brain Age, Nintendogs, and Touch Generations series of games.
via Destructoid
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June 7, 2007
Legend Of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass
This is one of my most wanted Nintendo DS games. Just a few more months before it's released here in America. Meanwhile I can enjoy these two new Japanese TV spots.
Hit the jump for the second spot.
Posted by tranism at 2:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
May 31, 2007
What Does Nintendo Mean?
A friend recently asked me if I'm a hardcore gamer. I answered yes since I spend a considerable amount of my time and money playing and buying video games. I stay abreast on the latest gaming news and although I like casual games, I sometimes prefer more in depth and epic experiences.
Then I was asked what Nintendo meant. DAMN! I know how old Nintendo is (118 years old) and that the company was founded making playing cards. In regard to this question, all my hardcoreness didn't amount to a hill-of-beans so I had to do some research. This is what I discovered.
The word Nintendo is an amalgamation of 3 symbols: nin, meaning "leave to"; ten, for "heaven"; and do, "company". That translates to "the company that leaves to heaven" or more poetically, "take care of every detail, and heaven will take care of the rest."
What a beautiful word!
Posted by tranism at 2:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)
May 30, 2007
Pollen Sonata
A small indie game studio in Denmark really wants their game on the Wii. They released a teaser video of their game entitled "Pollen Sonata". I think you play as pollen and your aim to bring two people together by virtue of chance and incident. Maybe by making one of them sneeze, they'll turn around and notice the other person sitting behind them.
It's a brilliant idea and the in-game footage looks to be very unique. See, the Wii-mote can either bring out rehashes or inspire new, unique ideas like this. I'm tired of fighters and shooters. This is refreshing. I really hope they find a publisher.
Posted by tranism at 5:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
May 25, 2007
Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles Crystal Bearers
That is one long ass title and the Japanese name seems even longer. I guess Square really wants to cement the word "Crystal Chronicles" as a franchise but thats neither here nor there. Lets get to the official FFCCCB trailer for Nintendo Wii. The art style is a departure from the cute kawaii-like characters on Gamecube. This time, big airships, guns and what looks to be massive worlds are in. Although the short trailer doesn't reveal much, it does show the cg cinematics and about 3 seconds of gameplay. Sure it's not Gears of Wars graphics but I'm hoping what it lacks in next gen graphics will be made up with next gen game mechanics.
Enjoy the trailer after the jump.
Posted by tranism at 4:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
May 19, 2007
Happy Potter Might Actually Be A Good Video Game
Usually video games based on movies never do well, but the extended trailer of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix video game may have just changed my mind. The game follows the story of the 5th book which is probably one of the best books in the series. EA plans on releasing the game on 8, YES COUNT THEM 8 platforms - everything from the PS3 all the way down to the Nintendo DS. However the version I'm interested in is the Nintendo Wii version. Unlike the other versions, the Wii affords real magic casting simulation by way of its motion sensing remote control. The video above is from the Wii version and like Hermione says, it's all in the wrist, just swish and flick.
Posted by tranism at 11:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
May 17, 2007
Brothers Grimm Video Game
Looks like game designer American McGee has finally found a publisher for his upcoming PC game, untitled but based on the Brothers Grimm fairytales. I absolutely loved his interpretation of Alice in Wonderland in 2000. Turning the story into a third person survivor horror game was genius and the art style - so much art style!
It seems the Grimm game is still in early development but judging from the concept artwork, McGee hasn't lost his touch. The image above is from the fairytale "The boy who learned fear". There are a few other pictures after the jump. See if you can figure out which fairytale they're from.
via Gamesutra
Posted by tranism at 6:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Little Big Planet Concept Art
Aside from Final Fantasy XIII, Little Big Planet is the other Sony exclusive game that has me frothing for more. I blogged about it earlier this year and then we knew you could customize your characters. New screenshots have been released along with concept art depicting the kind of freedom gamers will have in customizing their characters. Off top I can pick out Mario, the Prince from Katamari, Nudeboy, Ninja Gaiden and I think the mustache sportin' fella is the Pringles man.
Destructoid has a great article up on actual gameplay, but here's a video on customization in Little Big Planet.
Posted by tranism at 12:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
May 9, 2007
Drawn To Life
Drawn to Life is one of the interesting new titles coming to the DS this fall. The game was announced by developer 5th Cell last year but details were scarce. All we knew then was the game involved drawing. That was enough to raise some eyebrows and peek interests.
5th Cell has generously decided to let the cat or in this case, sketch out of the bag. In Drawn to Life, players help save a distant village from evil darkness. Pretty standard RPG stuff until it was revealed you draw your hero. In fact, you draw damn near everything in the game.
Using your stylus and an assortment of brushes and colors, you have the ability to design your hero any way you want. You even draw the weapons, items and tools your hero will use, but WAIT! That's not all. You also draw the animals that inhabit this world!
The game will also allow players to exchange their "drawings" via Wi-Fi which will insure the game's success. User created content in a video game could be one of the next big things in gaming. I'm just waiting to see what all the freaks out there create; rabbits with hooves or maybe something even worse. One can only imagine, then again - that's the point of the game isn't it? We'll all find out September 28 when Drawn to Life is released.
via Destructoid
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May 4, 2007
Game Widows Fight Back With Their Own Controllers
A game widow is a woman who has been abandoned by her b/f or husband to video games. It's sad but true - happens all the time. Well one of those women is Jennifer Chowdhury. She got fed up with her gamer widowhood and decided to fight back with the one weapon no man resists - sex.
Her idea is called the Intimate Game Controller. Sensor pads are embedded in the woman's bra and the man's boxers at ahem. . . strategic areas. Re-imagined games like Pong or Snake require both partners to work together and push the right buttons.
"I wanted to create a type of video game play that would center around a couple's intimacy where two people would touch each other in order to play the game."
What if this were Nintendo's revolutionary controller? Can you imagine?!? I think it's a fun idea but what I wanna know is, how many couple actually finish a game because touching often leads to other things.
via WMMNA
Posted by tranism at 5:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
April 30, 2007
If PUMA Made A Video Game Console
I had fun exploring the portfolio of Industrial Designer Berdan Cercioglu (his last name is awesome) this weekend and I must say, he's got spunk and A LOT of talent.
Take for example his PUMA Gaming Console called the Drive360, sound familiar? There's a reason for the name which I'll get to later. The project is more practice than practicality. He wants to know what a PUMA designed video game console would look like and for that he studied all things PUMA.
It was pretty cool going thru his slides. He understands PUMA'S culture and design sensibility. His numerous sketches led him to a design that would feel right at home amongst a shelf of expensive PUMA shoes. He envisages a console with generous curves like a cat with linear cable management mimicking the lines of a PUMA running shoe. He sees color and customizable skins representative of the youth and energy in PUMA design. The bottom of the console even has a tread-like foot to prevent slipping. Lastly he envisions a forward kinetic design almost leaping in its stance like the iconic PUMA logo.
He's not a technical engineer but he proposes an interesting slot loading CD/DVD mechanism. The drive can rotate 360ยบ in a full circle able to accept discs from any direction, thus the name Drive360. The purpose of this feature allows the gamer to set the console down in any direction. It may be minor but it's interesting since the console was designed to be as beautiful as it is technical.
More pictures after the jump.
Posted by tranism at 4:29 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
April 27, 2007
Happy Birthday Wii Name
It was this time one year ago when Nintendo foisted the name "Wii" upon us. They claimed in time, it would become a part of our everyday vocabulary. They claimed people all over the world would have no problem pronouncing it. Most important, they claimed our hate for the name would change to love and adoration.
So one year later, the question is was Nintendo right? And since I haven't done this in awhile. . . Wiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
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April 25, 2007
Boom Boom Boom Boom
That's the sound of my taiko drumming. Taiko Drum Master is coming out for the Nintendo DS this summer! Japan only but it's a music game so who needs to read anything? Just do what comes naturally and drum to the beat. Some new songs are the Super Mario Bros. theme and Flight of the Bumblebee. No idea how it'll use DS controls since the game has traditionally been in arcades and on Playstation systems but it will include 4 player battles and custom costumes for your character. I want I want I want!
via Wired
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The Nearest Thing To A Happy Tree Friends Video Game
It's called Muzuiro Chang. The image is cutesy gory if that makes any sense. I mean just look at it. It's telling me I can find some cuddly cat-like ball character that rolls around on 4 casters and apparently spills blue blood.
Designed for the Nintendo DS (my favorite platform) but in Japanese only. Fortunately the DS isn't region locked so importing this will be easy. Hell, the design and ubercute website are enough to convince me. Horrific graphic mutilation to cute characters you say? Not usually my cup of tea but I'm entranced now. Looks like fun mini-games ala WarioWare Touched. Any fluent Japanese readers out there care to translate?
via Kotaku
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April 22, 2007
Wii Channels Is Inaccurate Nomenclature
That's the Nintendo Wii's interface, designed around a tiled system that scrolls horizontally. Each of those tiles are called channels. The Wii remote was designed to be held like a TV remote. You use it like a pointer to select channels. When Nintendo revealed all of this last year, I got extremely excited. Praises from third party developers like Square Enix only reenforced my belief that something BIG was on the horizon. Fast forward a year later and I love the Wii but I'm disappointed with the interface, lack of features and Nintendo's inaccurate nomenclature for what "Wii Channels" really are.
To date, Wii Channels are just place holders for system features and downloaded games. I envisaged something bigger. Wii Channels and a TV remote-like controller led me to believe Nintendo would take the most successful aspects of TV and gaming to create an interface widely understandable by anyone. That experience we call channel guides, channel switching and channel surfing.
I thought maybe Nintendo would dedicate a channel to each developer. The developers would then have complete control over the programming in their channel. They would launch demos and schedule special events to take place in different time slots, just like real TV. I envisioned an Independent Channel where the most unique games would live, enabling smaller studios to publish their games online on a major console. New Channels could be added as more developers jumped onto the Wii bandwagon. I saw Chat Room Channels where people would take their discussions right into a game. Nintendo and its third party developers would have space to advertise instead of relying just on the traditional methods. I even imagined people creating their own channels and sharing it with their friends and families anywhere in the world - an amalgamation of MySpace and YouTube where people could "tune" in. I took it a step further and imagined TiVO like capabilities where people could record their in-game play sequences and post them in their channel. For privacy and security purposes, Nintendo could easily implement a parental control system to deactivate inappropriate content just like in real TV. My ultimate envisage was IPTV, something the Xbox 360 showed off earlier this year at CES.
We already knew the console would never turn off, essentially staying online 24 hours. All the pieces seem to fit and I felt this would be how Nintendo could come back from 3rd place. They wouldn't need horsepower. They would win with content. Although the Wii is doing insanely well in terms of sales, I can't help but feel there was missed opportunity here. I'm not saying the Wii isn't fun. I'm just critical of how much potential was unseeded. Nintendo is always apathetic about doing more than gaming, but that doesn't mean they can't take the best characteristics from other industries and apply them to their medium. The console is still young so who knows, maybe sometime in the future we'll see some of these features - sooner than later I hope.
Posted by tranism at 5:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
April 21, 2007
As Sweet As A Honeysuckle In The Morning Dew
I know the Nintendo Wii has been short on original IPs but that will all change later this year. I already wrote about one of my anticipated games last week. Here's another hotly anticipated game called Dewy's Adventure.
As you watch the gameplay trailer, don't be fooled by the primary colors. Take a closer look and you'll see there's amazing art direction in the title. Besides, how many hyper-realistic video games with drab brown and grey environments can you play? We all need a little color!
Befitting of my weekend Earth Day celebration, the story has tinges of environmental ideology. The world is being taken over by dark water (kinda like pollution) so the Great Tree gives birth to a tiny dew drop appropriately named Dewy. Using his transfigurative powers, he's charged with the task of saving his fellow brethren and cleaning the world of dark water.
Because it's an original IP on the Nintendo Wii, there are some cool innovative gameplay mechanics that make use of the Wii's motion sensing controller. The controller is held horizontally and tilts the world to move Dewy around. He can also control temperature, changing into different states of matter; liquid, gas, and solid. In liquid form he can fit thru the tiniest of cracks. In gas form he turns into a cloud able to to rain lightning bolts. In solid form he is an immovable obstacle. Now close your eyes and imagine the kind of platforming gameplay possibilities!
It's great to see big developers taking a risk and making something different. I remember video games used to be as diverse as people. I hope Dewy's Adventure is just the beginning of a video game renaissance. I can't wait!
Posted by tranism at 3:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
April 18, 2007
Super Radtacular!
Those Insomniac peeps, I tell ya are ACES with me. Here's the story. Tune in April 22 for Extreme Home Makeover. Unless you're heartless, the episode will move you to tears. It involves a boy name James Westbrook who was paralyzed in a car accident in 2006. He has had a really hard time adjusting but still dreams about becoming a video game designer one day. To make the story even more heart wrenching is his father Gene Westbrook who was also paralyzed while serving in Iraq!
As you can imagine, the medical bills are mounting and their current home isn't equipped for wheelchairs which is where Extreme Home Makeover steps in. As an extra bonus, all 160 employees at Insomniac Games were hard at work creating a digital playable James for their next entry in the Ratchet and Clank series on the PS3. He comes equipped with space suit and flying saucer!
"We were immediately moved to do something special for the Westbrook family when we learned about the tragic situation and James' passion for video game design," said Ted Price - founder and CEO of Insomniac Games.
"For all of us at Insomniac, this opportunity to help such an amazing family with our game-making experience was a real honor. We've never inserted a member of the public into our video games and we think it's incredibly appropriate that James will be the first to enjoy that unique experience."
I love those Insomniac Guys. There were named one of the best companies to work for in America and they're located right in my city - Burbank. It's amazing they rallied the entire company to make this happen.
Posted by tranism at 5:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
April 13, 2007
Treasure Island-Z Looking Fantastic
I live for games like this. The cell shading is reminiscent of Zelda The Wind Waker which by and far I still feel one of the most visually impressive games last generation. By the looks of this video, Treasure Island-Z stands to be the same. It's like playing a cartoon come to life. On top of that, the lucky few who have played thru a demo are gushing over how it brings point & click action adventure games back from the dead. A true showpiece on imagination and creativity. I mean look at him! He's a pirate with a giant bell as a weapon and some strange flying monkey as a sidekick!
Bring it on Capcom!
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Sony Says Yay To Virtual Reality 3D
It seems Sony is not content with losing the "we are the innovators" tag line so in an effort to do something that can truly revolutionize gaming, they've been working on a new type of VR 3D controller.
As illustrated in this patent, it's a handheld computer interactive device that incorporates motion sensors (hello Wii), multi-touch dexterity (hello Apple) and tactile feedback. The device allows the user to grab and manipulate on screen objects in 3D space, assigning different functions to each finger.
They make no mention of when such a device will see the light of day but I am sooooo ready for it. Just look at the hands! Don't they look like they're having fun? Image the kind of gameplay possible with this controller. It's like Minority Report sooner than later.
via Unwired View
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March 31, 2007
This Is Why Mickey's Hawt!
First, I deserve a lashing for spelling it "hawt". Second, here is my favorite shot from the secret ending in Kingdom Hearts 2 Final Mix. It could be a clue as to what the next installment may be about .
For the uninitiated, Kingdom Hearts is video game(s) developed by Square Enix masterfully blending the Final Fantasy and Disney universes. Currently there are 2 games for the PS2 and one game for the Gameboy Advance. All the stories follow a chronological order so sufficed to say it's epic - probably enough to be a huge Hollywood movie production but that's neither here nor there.
Back to this secret ending. It looks as if the world has fallen and three heros battle it out against our very powerful antagonist. Unfortunately none of them are any match. Just as our villain opens "Kingdom Hearts" (a repository of knowledge and power), we see a very upset Mickey brandishing his very powerful keyblade (sword).
EEK! What's Mickey going to do? What's happened to the world? Who are these 3 heroes and would I look like a total dork if I went as this Mickey for Halloween?
Video after the jump.
Posted by tranism at 12:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)
March 19, 2007
Gaming Music Is Big Biz.
EA games launched their new sister site EA Trax, home to all their video game soundtracks. Reading about this I found it interesting that music involved in video games have recently surpassed that of the movie industry in exposure.
Now I know the game industry is a big market but will we really discover new talent through video games or is it just another way for EA to make another buck? If you think about it, you've already paid for the music if you own the video game. Anyway, most of the songs are linked to iTunes so maybe this is all some partnership between EA and Apple. Will we see some of this cooperation spill over into other Apple product lines? EA games on Apple iPhone perhaps?
Posted by diverseawareness at 2:51 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
March 15, 2007
Possible Leaked Footage of Sadness
For the uninitiated, Sadness is a game for the Nintendo Wii by Nibris. Aside from a pretty weak video trailer released last year, no real gameplay footage has been released. In fact Nibris has been quiet ever since, leaving game enthusiasts asking, "vaporware"?
I don't know much about the game aside from it being totally black and white, involves a woman escorting/saving a kid, all in a pre-war setting. Some people are claiming this is leaked gameplay footage of Sadness. If fake, they certainly have the black and white portion down. What do you guys think?
via Inkblot Earth
UPDATE 1: There's a second leaked video now, labeled as a beta debug run.
UPDATE 2: After some sleuthing, I've concluded it's a hoax. It's very similar to a PC FPS called Infernal.
UPDATE 3: The owner of the video turned off video embedding so you'll have to go directly to the source.
Posted by tranism at 2:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Got Milk Board Game
Board games are so not dead. They're still fun with the right group of people. Just like any other game, it's all about content and this one is a doozy.
Get the Glass is an online board game where you play to help the milk-deprived Adachi family. The 5 worlds you navigate thru are breathtakingly beautiful in a miniature scale model type way. It won't be easy tho. You've got people hot on your tail. Do a good job and you'll "get the glass". But why would a family be so milk-deprived? Well, simply because it's all part of the Got Milk campaign. First cookies, then cows, now board games. LOVE IT!
via The Presurfer
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March 13, 2007
OPOONA, Another Original Wii Game
Although Nintendo is still under gag order about any news for at least another 2 weeks, that hasn't stopped 3rd party developers from talking about their developments.
One in particular is Koei, who just announced an original IP for the Wii called Opoona. Aside from a few screenshots, very little is known. The game revolves around the protagonist, name Opoona, searching for answers about his family's mysterious injuries.
Although the subject matter seems serious, the art style isn't. It's bright, colorful and Opoona looks like an astronaut baby. Nevertheless we should be confident. The game is headed by some big wigs from the Dragon Quest and Final Fantasy series so production values are sure to be high.
Koei did mention one interesting tidbit. The game will use the nunchuck exclusively, which I find odd since the nunchuck has to connect into the wii-mote in order to work so why not use the wii-mote anyways? Apparently the game's combat scenarios can all be controlled via quick thrusts and snaps, changing trajectory simply by tilting the controller.
No release date yet but it's good to know the Wii will get some original content from 3rd parties; Dewy's Adventure, Sadness, MySims and now Opoona.
UPDATE 1: The teaser site just launched and might I say, the music makes me happy.
UPDATE 2: Okay before I only had my left eye on this game. Now both my eyes are clearly focused, tongue panting, ass wagging. In other words, based on the new trailer, I want this game, badly. The art style is fantastic, the music is trippy (think Pee-Wee's Playhouse gone electronic).
Posted by tranism at 8:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
It's Like Mario Paint On Steroids For DS
With the interactive portion over at this year's SXSW festival, there were quite a few interesting things on hand at the show. My favorite one is a painting and animation program created for the DS.
Software designer Sabiston is most well known for his rotoshop software used to create a stylized type of rotoscoping animation. He saw untapped potential in the DS's dual screens and touch interface and so he created a paint program with keyframe/flip-book animation possibilities. You have full control over many types of simulated paint mediums. Once completed, those images can be animated into a flip-book style animation. It doesn't stop there. You can add audio using the DS's mic and then upload the finished production to a computer via wi-fi.
His presentation at SXSW shows the DS's dual ARM processors are quite powerful and even mentioned Nintendo was at least watching his progress. He hopes his software will see release but even if it doesn't, he has plans to release it as a homebrew app.
Check out the video.
More pictures after the jump.
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March 12, 2007
Nokia N95 GPS Does Work In North America
I had some reservations about the Nokia N95 namely because I knew some of its features would probably not work here in America. One of those features was GPS. I searched long and hard to find info on whether or not it would work outside of Europe and I'm happy to say, yes it will. Not only will it work in the U.S. but it comes with preloaded maps from over 100 countries making it a true global device.
Plankton was able to score one and we both can't wait to finally touch it in person. I've been fed up with my Windows Mobile and have been looking for a phone that could act as an interim until the release of the iPhone. I think the Nokia N95 may be it. Although it looks big, it's no wider or taller than the Sony Ericsson K800. In fact, with its excellent 5 megapixel CCD, it's better to think of it as a really compact digital camera that does GPS and smartphoning.
Full specs here
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March 7, 2007
Sony's Little Big Planet
Let's see, Microsoft has Viva Pinata, Nintendo has. . . actually almost everything Nintendo has is sorta "age friendly", now Sony has Little Big Planet but what is this terrifyingly adorable game about?
In a phrase, gamer centric co-op. It's a physics based platformer for the PS3 and tho words fail me now, I will try my best to articulate the game.
The game seems to be divided up into 3 parts. First you have customization. Everything from your character right down to the environment. Create new game levels and challenge yourself and friends. The second part of the game is the actual platforming. Play alone or with 3 others online. The word of the day here is "co-op" if that's even a valid word. The platformer consists of many challenging obstacles that require you and your mates to work together. The environment is completely interactive. Grab ahold of things, swing, smash into walls, smack your team mates around; you know, whatever floats your boat, just as long as you successfully complete each level. The third part of the game is posting your custom made levels online, like a gamer's version of YouTube. People post comments and rate your game as it rises thru the ranks
The music is totally infectious. The graphics are stunning and incredibly sharp because the game runs in true HD. The physics are also stunning but you'd expect as much from the people who developed last years indie hit, Ragdoll Kung-Fu Masters.
A demo version will arrive on the Playstation Network this fall with the full release sometime early 2008.
Posted by tranism at 9:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Heavenly Sword Really Is Quite Heavenly
Oh PS3, how I know you'll live up to your expectations someday. And that "someday" seems to be creeping up faster and faster. Just take a gander at how they're utilizing motion capture to really set a new standard in video games.
Heavenly Sword is this action adventure/hack and slash game tied around a very cinematic story. I first played it E3 2006 and it was one of the few PS3 titles that impressed me. Now I know why.
The developers are using motion capture to get all the fluid movements of the body and facial expressions down right. Not only that, but they're using the world's most advanced motion capture studio, WETA, special effects house of films like I-Robot and the Lord of The Rings trilogy. In fact Andy Serkis whom "mocapped" Gollum in Lord of The Rings talks about how all this production effort in Heavenly Sword is really going to usher in an era of video games that can almost pass as interactive movies.
The game doesn't come out until later this year. Good thing too because between a new digital camera and the upcoming iPhone, I'll need a bit of a grace period before I can splurge again.
via Gay Gamer
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March 4, 2007
Simple Is As Simple Does: Toblo
A group of video game design students from Digipen got together and created a fast-paced capture the flag game called Toblo. Their main goal was to demonstrate the basics of game design (when done right) is all that's needed to make a really fun game.
On the surface, Toblo seems like an ordinary capture the flag game but it's simplicity is what makes it fun. You have no weapons and the environments are completely destructible. You know what that means right? Tear down the environments and use them as weapons! Okay, already sounds pretty fun. Next is graphic design. No need for hyper-realistic graphics here. Stylized and a sense of humor is the way to go. The bright colors and simple geometry go well with the humor anyone from any culture could understand. Teams are divided up into two groups; devils (avatars with horns) and angels (avatars with halos). Animating real walk cycles is hard so instead, they ride around on little clouds.
Toblo is up for the Audience Awards at the 2007 Independent Games Festival. That means YOU need to vote but before you do, download the game and try it out!
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February 25, 2007
Fire Emblem Goddess of Dawn
The SRPG (strategy role playing game) Fire Emblem series have always enthralled me. The gameplay and story lines are always been executed extremely well. Still, this is a Nintendo developed title and despite Fire Emblem's occasional tip-toe into adult oriented themes, they've have always remained age friendly or at least until now.
Fire Emblem Goddess of Dawn for the Wii looks to change all that with the opening intro suggesting rape and depicting throat violence. I hope this is a sign that Nintendo is exploring ways to visually "age-up" some of their franchises. Aside from that, Fire Emblem uses a beautiful 3D cell shaded look. The screenshot above is an example of how they've blended anime cell shading within the word of 3D. I can't wait to see more. For now, I'll have to live with the game's trailer and opening intro until its release stateside.
more in-game screenshots after the jump
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February 10, 2007
My Top Nintendo DS Games
Of all the game platforms, the Nintendo DS is still my most played one. The games for it are vast and varied and it's the first time in a long time I remember playing games that define whole new genres. This top 16 list are DS games I currently own and are out in North America.
from left to right:
Super Mario Bros - Mario and friends are back in the Mushroom Kingdom reinvented in a side scrolling 3D platformer. Definitely as good if not better than the original.
Meteos - A manic puzzler that's great for passing time when standing in line for anything (ahem, a PS3). Sort of a cross between connect four and tetris.
Drill Spirits - Another great puzzler. You play a character the needs to drill down thru blocks and blocks of. . . well blocks. Throw in some strategy and you'll find it's not as easy as it looks. Great classic.
Metroid Pinball - I didn't like Metroid Hunters much but Pinball is totally up my alley. Samus is the pinball and the boards get harder and harder. The graphics in this one are purdy. Such a great casual game.
Hotel Dusk Room 215 - This is one of those "new genre" type games I mentioned. It sort of combines the old school click thru gameplay with an engrossing narrative. The art style is gorgeous and the story is sure to suck you in.
Animal Crossing Wild World - Live in a virtual world (it's online) where you have to pay for a house and suck up to neighbors by doing meaningless chores. I'll admit I was addicted and everytime a major Holiday rolls by, I sign on to see if Nintendo has left any collectable goodies.
Over The Hedge - Am I the only one that enjoyed the movie? You play as a bunch of animals planning an epic kitchen raid on those pesky humans. I had fun and it made me want to eat twinkies again.
Kirby Cursed Canvas - This was the first game where I saw innovation with touchscreen. Kirby's path is dictated by your stylus and where you stroke, he follows. An amazing platformer for sure.
Children of Mana - I'm still not done with the awesome RPG but I'm thoroughly addicted. Gameplay is straightforward and linear but the storyline, action and game sequences kept me coming back.
Mario & Luigi Partners in Time - It's sorta platformer meets RPG and the story is a little crazy. The brothers travel back in time to save Peach and run into younger versions of themselves.
Kirby Squeak Squad - He may be a pink puff but he pwns' in this game. Kirby kicks ass HARD and the platforming elements remind me of classic Kirby and why I love him so much.
Electroplankton - This non-game game is more like a musical interaction exhibition. Here imagination is all that matters and is what inspired this blog's name.
Trace Memory - Another one of those "new genre" games. The story is well written and plays out like a novella. It gets hard at some points but just like a difficult passage in a book, you go over it enough times and you'll get thru satisfied.
Final Fantasy III - This is a 3D remake of the classic Famicom game that never made it to the U.S. Re-imagined for the DS with typical Sqeenix quality, it's the RPG I'm currently playing and damn it's good.
Sonic Rush - Those of us who remember Sonic from his 2D side scrolling days know he once ruled as top dog right alongside Mario. His transition into 3D sucked but Sonic Rush takes him back to his 2D roots and all those good Sonic memories came flying back.
Mario Kart DS - A game that pretty much perfected the kart racing genre. It never bores me and whenever I don't feel like going to sleep, I hop online and challenge some cocky 10 year old before admittedly getting my ass kicked by him.
Posted by tranism at 6:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
December 28, 2006
SimCity DS Coming to a Japan Near You
There have been several SimCity attempts outside the desktop computing realm, all of them sorta . . . sucked. The DS however seemed to be the best platform to exploit with it's dual and touch screen.
Japan gets a DS version of SimCity based off SimCity 3000 for the PC. New features include multiplayer function and a bobble-head like Will Wright (creator of the original) as your advisor.
No word yet whether or not the game will see release outside Japan. In my opinion, this game is a must have and if I'm forced to import one then so be it, but please please make an English version and set that baby loose.
via kotaku
more pictures after the jump
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Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles Rings of Fate
I loved Crystal Chronicles on the Gamecube so when Sqeenix announced a sequel for the Nintendo DS, I was giddier than a girl scout hawking her cookies (pun totally intended).
The new trailer definitely delivers. I'm so excited for the multiplayer action to totally take over my life on weekends (yes super geek here). The new trailer shows more in-game shots and it looks incredible. It's amazing how much Sqeenix has been able to squeeze out of DS hardware. Enjoy the trailer!
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December 19, 2006
The Wiijects
YOU, yes you! Your stomach turned when the wiimote was unveiled. You ran thru the house screaming when you heard the "Revolution" was actually a Wii. You may even be the person that himed and hawed when the DS was announced. In general, every time Nintendo opened its mouth, you - like a dumbfounded catholic school girl lost in an all boys dormitory, asked yourself, "what the frack?"
My friend, this may send you over the edge. Nikkei Business Magazine (sorta like the Times of Japan) recently published some nostalgic and some bizarre Wii controller prototypes. Yes these Wiijects show the various directions Nintendo experimented with before settling with the ubiquitous wiimote design. The rotating controller on the upper right is kind of interesting. The amorphic gamcube-like blob looks a little big and uncomfortable, but lets get to the real question. WHAT THE FRACK is that giant orange controller in the middle?!?! Is someone at Nintendo R&D snorting fairy dust or something? Although we may never know exactly how the controller works, I like to pretend smashing down on that big ass star button activates an "I WIN" mode at which point a seizure inducing, rainbow casting, strobe light dancing aurora surrounds my body allowing me to execute everything in x10's speed.
You know what tho, it's nice to see a 30 billion company still willing to think so outside the box; not afraid to at least "try". I think that's the Nintendo magic, the spirit that speaks to those who believe anything is possible.
Posted by tranism at 11:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
December 10, 2006
Nintendo's Interactive Game Calendar
click the image to enlarge
Snowdriftland is an online flash game set-up to release each of its 24 stages on a specific day of the month. The game is really just a spot for Nintendo to bombard you with banner ads but the game is absolutely addicting, you won't even notice them.
You play as a snowman traveling thru a cloned Super Mario World collecting snowflakes (gold coins) while battling penguins, orcas, spiders and flying squirrels just to name a few. The mechanics are spot on and it proves once again, Nintendo is King of retro gaming. Aside from the excellent gameplay, the music is drugfully addicting. I found myself humming it while walking the dog.
What are you waiting for, go play it now!
Posted by tranism at 11:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
November 27, 2006
Link's Master Sword Forged
The Master Sword, the sword that allows Link to wield unimaginable power - power to slay tyranny time and time again. Yes that sword has been forged. A Zelda fan name Paul Hantschel sent artwork and a request to renowned blacksmith Rob Miller of Scotland for help. Nearly 8 months later and $3,300, the sword was forged.
The replica is incredibly beautiful and although not the first - it certainly the most accurate. Many of the other replicas I've seen are too thin. The Master Sword is hefty, not dainty. Only a hero with great strength like Link can wield the weight.
more pictures after the jump
Lookie here for the original post. Mr. Hantschel, I envy you.
The original sketch Paul Hantschel sent to the blacksmith