Messages

1

NWR Forums Discord / Re: This thread is about politics, please remain on topic.

« on: February 20, 2008, 10:21:42 AM »

If anyone else derails this thread, they will recieve a 1 week ban directly from me. Understood?

2

NWR Forums Discord / Re: What is Washington thinking?

« on: February 20, 2008, 09:47:48 AM »

I need to remind everyone that it was the democrats that put our country in the state it is now. They cut defense spending massively, allowed the shipping of our jobs across international borders and overseas with freetrade agreements, and they let inflation get way out of control with sparse raises in minimum wages. Having a republican in the whitehouse is important because we need to become the military superpower we once were during the Cold War. Such overwhelming force is the one and only deterrant that will keep us as a nation safe for generations to come. We also need to bring the jobs overseas back to the states. Having all of the manufacturing and processing jobs in places like China, India, and Mexico is nothing but huge trouble for us because unlike here, those countries have incredibly lax quality controls and safety checks, if they even exist.

3

NWR Feedback / Discussion of Forum Rules

« on: February 15, 2008, 06:08:40 PM »

*snip*

4

Nintendo Gaming / Re: The most awesome Wii lightgun attachment ever!!

« on: February 14, 2008, 07:39:24 AM »

This is made of fail.  Just remember complete utter fail.

I see some one forgot to take their happy pill today.

5

Nintendo Gaming / Re: Future Home of the Red Steel 2 Mega-Thread

« on: February 14, 2008, 07:38:06 AM »

I hope the old posts don't come back.

Heh heh....are you ever in for a rude awakening...heh heh....

6

Nintendo Gaming / Re: Okami: Capcom says "Buy another enhanced port please!"

« on: February 14, 2008, 07:37:20 AM »

I'll get it.  I knew from the very start, we'd see a Nintendo version of this game, so I held off.

Of course you'll get it. You'll also never open it.

[Nerf and The Littlest Pet Shop will hit Nintendo's console in the future.]

7

TalkBack / EA Announces Two Hasbro Titles For Wii

« on: February 11, 2008, 04:12:22 PM »

Nerf and The Littlest Pet Shop will hit Nintendo's console in the future.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=15260

 EA ANNOUNCES FIRST HASBRO TITLES IN DEVELOPMENT – PLAYERS CAN COLLECT, BLAST, DEAL OR SPELL THEIR WAY TO VIDEO GAME FUN    

LITTLEST PET SHOP, NERF, MONOPOLY and YAHTZEE among first franchises to hit a variety of game systems, online and mobile under EA and Hasbro agreement    

Chertsey, UK – February 11, 2008 – EA today announces its first step in transforming the interactive family entertainment landscape with its initial slate of Hasbro games, in development on a variety of game consoles, mobile devices and for online play. These games provide new ways for families to build relationships through digital entertainment with some of world’s greatest brands. The first Nintendo Wii and DS titles that will be available this autumn are LITTLEST PET SHOP, and NERF “N-Strike,” both in production at EA’s Salt Lake Studio. EA also is developing new MONOPOLY and SCRABBLE (in North America) titles for multiple platforms, as well as other titles to be announced later this year.    

Mobile gamers can already experience the fun of SCRABBLE (North America only) and YAHTZEE DELUXE on their phones. Starting this spring, EA Mobile will introduce the next generation of classic Hasbro titles. The first games in this exciting new expansion include MONOPOLY HERE & NOW, TRIVIAL PURSUIT, RISK, and YAHTZEE ADVENTURES, a re-invention of the classic dice game.    

For online web play, EA’s Pogo.com is developing engaging, authentic online experiences for MONOPOLY and YAHTZEE as fun, multiplayer experiences. Trivia fans can look forward to the much anticipated launch of TRIVIAL PURSUIT this fall. Additionally, Pogo.com is launching two connected downloadable titles, OPERATION and PICTUREKA, which can be played offline or players can connect online on Pogo for bonus features and the social experience of playing the game with others. With more than 13million visitors a month, the pogo.com community delivers a unique online experience for family and friends to connect and play these hugely popular Hasbro games together in the virtual world.    

“EA and Hasbro want to give families new ways to enjoy games; we want give them a new way to come together, connect, spend time and have fun around the TV or online,” said Chip Lange, vice president and general manager of EA’s Hasbro Studio. “Bringing the spirit of these games to life as video games has allowed us to create really unique and creative experiences for families and friends of all ages to enjoy together at home or online.”    

”We are thrilled that together we are bringing our great toys and games to life in the digital world and providing consumers with new and dynamic ways to enjoy our amazing brands,” said Mark Blecher, Hasbro’s senior vice president of Digital Media and Gaming.    

At Hasbro’s Toy Fair showcase in New York from February 17-19, EA will unveil LITTLEST PET SHOP on the Wii and DS, NERF “N-Strike”, and EA Mobile’s SCRABBLE, YAHTZEE ADVENTURES and MONOPOLY HERE & NOW.    

   

EA HASBRO TITLES IN DEVELOPMENT INCLUDE:    

LITTLEST PET SHOP for Wii, DS and PC, scheduled for release during autumn 2008  LITTLEST PET SHOP brings the magic of owning your own pet shop to your home. EA brings the quirkiness and cuteness of the popular Hasbro girl’s brand to life in a new digital world. Players can explore three unique environments as they unlock new pets, playsets, accessories and more.  Players will discover magical moments of delight as they build relationships with their pets. This game is the next must-have addition to fans growing Littlest Pet Show collection. Add to the ultimate Littlest Pet Show collection with three different versions of the Nintendo DS game; each with unique pets.    

NERF “N-Strike” for Wii and DS, scheduled to ship autumn 2008  Become the master of mayhem in the first NERF blaster action game. In a world created to be the perfect landscape for NERF pandemonium, players can wreak havoc and perfect their blasting skills or challenge friends to clashes with both single and multi-player game modes. With the brand new custom NERF blaster, players can then take the action outside as their controller transforms to fire actual NERF darts.

[Koei's latest entry in the Samurai Warriors franchise is now on its way to manufacturing for its January 15th release date.]

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TalkBack / Samurai Warriors: Katana Goes Gold

« on: December 19, 2007, 10:03:35 AM »

Koei's latest entry in the Samurai Warriors franchise is now on its way to manufacturing for its January 15th release date.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=15011

 SAMURAI WARRIORS: KATANA FOR NINTENDO WIITM REACHES GOLD STATUS    

KOEI's First-Person Action-Adventure Will Ship to North American Retailers on January 15, 2008    

Burlingame, CA -December 19, 2007 - KOEI, recognized worldwide as the premier brand of strategy and action games, today announced that Samurai Warriors: KATANA for Nintendo Wii has reached gold status and is set to ship to North American retailers starting on January 15, 2008. Players can pre-order the game now at GameStop.com, EBGames.com and Amazon.com.    

KOEI has also launched the official minisite for Samurai Warriors: KATANA at: www.koei.com/katana. On the site players can learn more about the game, watch exclusive movies and more.    

About Samurai Warriors: KATANA  Using an exhilarating first-person perspective, Samurai Warriors: KATANA is based on the hugely popular Samurai Warriors series and delivers total arcade-style action right into your own home. By mastering different weapons using the motion-sensitive Wii Remote, veteran and first-time players alike will discover a whole new dimension of excitement to the Samurai Warriors series of games.    

On each mission, legendary samurai and allies will serve as your guide. Prevent pirates from invading your ships, rescue maidens from a burning castle, and explore mysterious caverns stalked by ninjas. These and many more challenging missions require quick reflexes, fast thinking, and precision marksmanship.    

On the battlefield ninja assassins will be poised to strike at your every turn, but with close-range and long-range weapons, you’ll be well equipped for your counterattack. Combat gets up close and personal with the classic samurai sword, spear, and mighty war hammer, but you can still target enemy soldiers in the distance using a bow and arrow, a gun, and even a cannon.    

Samurai Warriors: KATANA offers three different modes of play. Action-packed with nearly 30 hours of game play, Musou Mode takes you on an incredible adventure through Feudal Japan. Samurai-in-training can prepare for battle with a multitude of challenges in Trial Mode. Here you’ll earn gold which can be used to purchase weapons and precious items. And in Vs. Mode, you can go head-to-head with a friend in eight exciting mini games.    

Developed by KOEI’s award-winning internal team, Omega Force, Samurai Warriors: KATANA is rated “T" (Teen – Mild Language, Violence) by the ESRB. Samurai Warriors: KATANA has three difficulty levels for players of all skill levels, and is for up to 2 players (in Vs. mode). This game features Dolby Pro Logic II audio. For more information about Samurai Warriors: KATANA, visit www.koei.com/katana.

[MTV Games announces an exclusive contract with Jerry Bruckheimer to develop video games.]

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TalkBack / MTV Games and Jerry Bruckheimer Set Up Shop Together

« on: December 19, 2007, 09:36:23 AM »

MTV Games announces an exclusive contract with Jerry Bruckheimer to develop video games.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=15009

 MTV GAMES AND JERRY BRUCKHEIMER ANNOUNCE BLOCKBUSTER PARTNERSHIP TO DEVELOP VIDEO GAMES    

Landmark Agreement Marks the Launch of Jerry Bruckheimer Game Studio with MTV Games    

NEW YORK, December 19, 2007 – MTV Games, a division of Viacom Inc.’s (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B) MTV Networks, today announced an exclusive deal with internationally renowned motion picture and television producer Jerry Bruckheimer to develop and create new and original video games, marking his first official foray into the gaming world. As part of this landmark agreement, Bruckheimer will build a game incubation studio with MTV Games, where a team of experienced video game experts, artists and storytellers will seek out and deliver new game concepts and intellectual property.    

By joining MTV Games with Bruckheimer’s blockbuster track record for creating successful entertainment properties in film and television, both new and experienced gamers can expect what promises to be some of the most entertaining, challenging, and unique games.    

“Video games represent a new and innovative medium for what we’ve always tried to do, which is to tell great stories. But this medium is unique in that it gives the player control over how those stories unfold," said Jerry Bruckheimer. “I look forward to working with MTV Games to create new original game stories, always looking for ways to innovate the medium."    

“Jerry Bruckheimer and his innate talent for developing wildly successful entertainment properties that range from action, reality, drama, sports, and comedy are the perfect complement to our vision for MTV Games and the experience our audiences truly crave," said Van Toffler, President, MTV Networks Music & Logo Group. "There’s a huge intersection between the fans of Bruckheimer films, our audience and gamers, making the potential for this partnership to be as explosive as one of his blockbuster films."    

Executives from both MTV Games and Bruckheimer’s gaming studio will work together on all phases of development - from concept to platform - as well as on the production, distribution deals and marketing elements, with the potential that some of the game concepts could migrate to other entertainment media including film and TV. Jeff Yapp, Executive Vice President, Programming Enterprises and Bob Picunko, Vice President Electronic Games & Interactive Products will oversee the relationship for MTV Games.    

MTV Networks will support this venture across all its broadcast and digital platforms including CMT, MTV, Spike and VH1. Gaming is a focal point of MTV Networks’ overall vertical entertainment strategy of super-serving its core audiences with engaging experiences across multiple platforms. In August of 2007, the company announced that it will invest more than $500 million over the next two years in the development and distribution of its Interactive Entertainment and Video Game business. MTV Games’ recently released Rock Band from developers, Harmonix, which MTV Networks acquired in 2006, an all-new platform that allows music fans and gamers to interact with their favorite music like never before and garnered universal critical acclaim including: "Best of Show" at this year’s Game Critics Awards: Best of E3 2007, "Game of the Year for Teens" by USA Today, and called "this holiday season's most awesome video game ever" by SPIN Magazine.    

Jerry Bruckheimer holds an undisputed position as one of the most successful producers in both motion pictures and television. First in partnership with Don Simpson, and then as the chief of Jerry Bruckheimer Films, he has produced an unprecedented string of worldwide smashes, hugely impacting not only the industry, but mass culture as well. Bruckheimer’s films have included “American Gigolo," “Flashdance," “Bad Boys," “Dangerous Minds," “Crimson Tide," “The Rock," “Con Air," “Armageddon," “Enemy of the State," “Gone in 60 Seconds," “Coyote Ugly," “Remember the Titans," “Pearl Harbor," “Black Hawk Down," “Bad Boys II," “Veronica Guerin," “King Arthur," “National Treasure," “National Treasure: Book of Secrets," and the landmark trilogy, “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl," “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest," and “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End."    

On television, Bruckheimer had an unprecedented 10 television series airing in the 2005-6 season, a record in the medium for an individual producer. JBTV’s series have included “C.S.I.: Crime Scene Investigation" and its spinoffs “C.S.I.: Miami" and “C.S.I.: NY," and “Without A Trace," “Cold Case" and “The Amazing Race."    

Jerry Bruckheimer Films and Television have been honored with 39 Academy Award nominations, six Oscars, 69 Emmy nominations, 16 Emmys, eight Grammy Award nominations, five Grammys, 23 Golden Globe nominations, four Golden Globes, 16 People’s Choice nominations, 11 People’s Choice Awards, numerous MTV Awards, including one for Best Picture of the Decade for “Beverly Hills Cop," and 20 Teen Choice Awards.  The deal was negotiated by Creative Artists Agency on behalf of Jerry Bruckheimer. For MTV Games, the agreement was overseen by George Cheeks, EVP & General Counsel, Business and Legal Affairs, MTV Networks.

[2K Marin joins the existing family of studios under the umbrella of the 2K brand.]

10

TalkBack / Take-Two Opens New Studio in California

« on: December 17, 2007, 12:54:57 PM »

2K Marin joins the existing family of studios under the umbrella of the 2K brand.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=15002

 Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. Announces Formation of 2K Marin    

New Northern California based development studio to focus on creating original, industry-leading intellectual property    

New York, NY - December 17, 2007 - Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO) today announced the formation of 2K Marin, a new development studio under its 2K publishing label. Located in Novato, California, 2K Marin will develop original intellectual property, as well as co-develop products with other 2K studios around the world. "We're focused on continuing to bring new brands and cutting-edge gameplay to market with the creation of the 2K Marin studio," said Christoph Hartmann, President of 2K. "2K Marin will build upon our success in creating and leveraging AAA franchises."    

2K Marin is the newest studio to join 2K's outstanding group of development studios located in Asia, Europe, Australia and North America.    

For more information, visit the 2K Games website at www.2kgames.com.

[Call of Duty 4 and Guitar Hero III contribute to the publisher's incredible success.]

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TalkBack / Activision Becomes #1 Console and Handheld Publisher In The U.S.

« on: December 17, 2007, 12:45:48 PM »

Call of Duty 4 and Guitar Hero III contribute to the publisher's incredible success.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=15001

 Activision Ranks #1 U.S. Console and Handheld Publisher January - November 2007, According to NPD    

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Dec 17, 2007: Activision, Inc. (Nasdaq:ATVI) was the #1 U.S. console and handheld publisher for the first eleven months of calendar 2007, according to The NPD Group. The company increased its market share for the eleven month period to a record 16.8%, a 7.9% increase over the same period last year.    

For the month of November, Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock and Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare were the #1 and #2 best-selling titles respectively in dollars across all platforms, according to The NPD Group. Activision also had five of the top-10 best-selling games in dollars, including Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system and the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system, and Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system and the Wii home video game system. Additionally, Guitar Hero has remained the #1 best-selling franchise in the U.S. since January, according to The NPD Group.    

"We continue to see strong consumer response to our wholly owned and internally developed titles - Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock and Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare," said Robert Kotick, Chairman and CEO, Activision, Inc. "We are well positioned to continue our leadership position through the remainder of the year and are on track to delivering another record year of revenue growth and the most profitable year in our history."    

Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, Activision, Inc. is a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and leisure products. Founded in 1979, Activision posted net revenues of $1.5 billion for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2007.    

Activision maintains operations in the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, Spain, the Netherlands, Australia, Japan and South Korea. More information about Activision and its products can be found on the company's World Wide Web site, which is located at www.activision.com.

[One in Florida, the other in Japan.]

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TalkBack / Ignition Opens Two New Studios

« on: December 17, 2007, 12:40:01 PM »

One in Florida, the other in Japan.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=15000

 Ignition Entertainment Opens Additional Development Studios    

Newly Opened Studios in Tokyo and Florida Show Commitment to Next Gen Development    

December 17, 2007 – Marina Del Rey - Ignition Entertainment Ltd., a UTV Software Communications Ltd enterprise, a worldwide publisher and developer of videogames, announced today that it will be expanding its videogame development capabilities by opening studios in both Japan and the USA.    

Ignition Tokyo and Ignition Florida will further develop the company’s capabilities to create original and innovative intellectual properties for the electronic entertainment industry.    

These additional studios, along with Digi-Guys, will be responsible for the creation of new IP specifically for the next generation formats. As previously announced, Ignition Entertainment’s goals are to include development of original IP and licenses across a number of formats.    

“This is an important time for us. With the addition of these new studios we will increase our capacity for producing original product," said Vijay Chadha, Ignition Entertainment CEO and co-founder. “The opening of both Ignition Florida and Tokyo is a stepping stone to building a stronger and more focused development group. These studios are an important addition to the company and will be a solid foundation on which future plans will be built."    

Ignition Tokyo and Florida will join Digi-Guys (WarDevil) in the common goal of pushing far beyond the confines of conventional ‘next-gen’ thinking and produce unique, innovative and platform leading videogames & digital content across all media, utilising a broad spectrum of games & movie CG experience. Details of the projects being worked on will be released in the coming months.    

For more information on Ignition Entertainment titles please visit www.ignitionent.com

13

Nintendo Gaming / Newegg has Wiis

« on: December 17, 2007, 09:30:16 AM »

Newegg has Wiis in stock. Come 'n get 'em while they last, cause they wont last long.  

14

General Chat / RE: Gamespot Editor fired for 'unfavorable' review?

« on: December 07, 2007, 05:57:33 PM »

The issue at hand is NOT Gerstmann's firing, the dumbass deserved what he got. What is the issue here is the lack of trust this has generated for print and online videogame media. If CNET cannot come forward and make a definitive statement either way that automatically means theyre guilty, whether they are or not. Not many of you really understand why the press is freaking out about this incident, so I will tell you why. What CNET did, whether its a bad coincidence or not, has seriously wounded the credibility of all gaming press and we, the press, demand they come clean on the issue and stop being secretive about it so we can go about rebuilding the trust that you, the online gaming community and readership, once had in us. Without a definitive statement from CNET directly addressing this scandal, the best we can do is damage control, which will have no longterm effects.

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TalkBack / RE: REVIEWS: Front Mission

« on: December 05, 2007, 07:46:43 PM »

I dont find turn based strategy titles to be particularly entertaining, but this game is perfect for those who love strategy.

[Square Enix's strategy classic comes to the DS in its original form. How does it hold up?]

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TalkBack / REVIEWS: Front Mission

« on: December 04, 2007, 11:46:10 AM »

Square Enix's strategy classic comes to the DS in its original form. How does it hold up?
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/reviewArt.cfm?artid=14926

 Front Mission is a turn based strategy game that was originally released on the Super Famicom in 1995 by Squaresoft. Front Mission for the DS is more or less a direct port, with some added content from the 2003 PlayStation version for veterans of the series to enjoy. In Front mission, you command mechs called wanzers and lead them into battle against your enemies. These wanzers are also completely upgradeable and customizable, making each wanzer you customize unique.    

Front Mission gives you the choice of fighting from either the Oceania Community Union (OCU), or the United States of the New Continent (USN). On the OCU campaign you assume the identity of Royd Clive, a former O.C.U. Ground Defense Force (OCUGDF) captain who joins the OCU-backed mercenary group called the Canyon Crows. In the USN campaign, you play as Kevin Greenfield, a Second Lieutenant and the leader of the B-team platoon, the Silver Lynx, for the Black Hounds in the USN army. Fans of Front Mission will be happy to know that the original script is accurately translated, bringing a well written, engaging storyline and interesting characters to English-speaking players without the embarrassing mistakes that often come along with ports like these.    

The Super Famicom-era visuals translate nicely over to the DS's twin screens, featuring a decent amount of detail, just about what you would expect from a game released so late in the fourth console generation. Unfortunately the game's graphics are marred by what one would call "sliding pixels", meaning that on any scene that has a sizable amount of movement, there's minimal animation. Also, some newer gamers might find themselves turned off by the decidedly retro look and feel of this game, which will, on the other hand, appeal to older gamers, particularly those who lived during the days of Sega vs. Nintendo.    

With controls, Square Enix has given the gamer a choice on how they play the game. You can either use the touch screen to deal with everything, or you can play the game the old fashioned way, with the directional pad and buttons. For a game with menus as small as this, I continually found myself frustrated while using the touch screen, constantly pressing on the wrong options by accident, but with the traditional controls, Front Mission plays perfectly.    

Sound is also a direct translation from the Super Famicom game, having seen absolutely no changes or enhancements at all. The music changes with the progression of the battle, changing over to heavier music as the situation becomes more desperate or the deadline for an objective approaches. For a game like this, the music does its job well enough but is neither outstanding nor disappointing.    

There is a ton of content to go through, which includes the extra USN campaign from the PlayStation port, the total customizability of the mechs, the ability to face off against combatants in the arena, and even a feature to battle your friends in multiplayer. The main game alone will keep you occupied for quite some time, with battles lasting 45 minutes at the beginning and lasting four or five hours by the end of either campaign. Luckily, Square Enix foresaw this problem and has included a quick save function, so you can save in the middle of a battle and start where you left off when you have more time.    

For fans of the strategy genre, this is your definitive game on the DS; go and pick this game up without a second thought. For those not so enamored with strategy games, this game is worth at least one rental, but beware of the game's length and complexity. Front Mission may not seem like much, but looks are deceiving, because this game has a lot to offer for those who enjoy strategy games. Mature, involved games like Front Mission don't appear every day on Nintendo's handheld.

Pros:
       

Pure strategy

 

Well written script

 

Tons of content

 

Quick save feature

 

Sound remains untouched
       Cons:
       

Sliding pixel art

 

Lengthy battles

 

Not enough guidance for casual gamers

               Graphics:  7.0
       Super Famicom-era visuals look decent on the small DS screen, the color palette setting up a rather nice atmosphere for an older title, but the sliding pixel art is an eyesore, almost ruining the visual experience entirely.

               Sound:  7.5
       Neither good nor bad, the music and sound effects are very fitting for this game. The sound quality is a bit rough, but that's more of an issue with the quality of the speakers on the DS. Despite that, the music does a good job of setting the necessary mood, and it even changes with the progression of the battle.

               Control:  8.0
       Touch screen controls are a royal pain to deal with, but the traditional controls more than make up for the deficiency, dishing up the final piece of nostalgia in this classic strategy game.

                      Gameplay:  9.0
       This is strategy at its finest and most complex. Gamers with simpler tastes will be taken aback by how demanding Front Mission is, and hardcore strategists will delight in it. This title does not hold any hands; it throws you out there and makes you find your own way, so be prepared.

 

       Lastability:  9.0
       Front Mission is a veritable cornucopia of content, stemming mainly from how customizable the wanzers are. The main draw, though, is the game's two lengthy campaigns, which will easily last the player 30+ hours. Add one-on-one multiplayer and the absurdly huge list of parts, skills, and strategies, and you have a game that will likely last you almost 70 hours.

 

       Final:  8.5
       Casual gamers need not apply, as Front Mission is for the hardest of the hardcore gamers. This is strategy at its finest and hardest. The game never babysits the player and never tells him/her how to play any given mission. If you decide this game is for you, be ready; it's very demanding, but also very rewarding.      

[Enner]

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TalkBack / RE:Vivendi, Activision Merge to Form Activision Blizzard

« on: December 03, 2007, 01:27:07 PM »

Quote
Originally posted by: Enner
Alright. Duely noted.
I guess I'm in the wrong for not caring about this issue as much as management does and thinking that this is just a bit touchy on this? My thinking is that it was an interview which was far enough away from any clutchs that stifle opinions and free thought. Anyway, roger that on the GameSpot bannage. Guess I'm just not taking things seriously enough.


ANYWAY!
MEGER! HUGE! WOW!
It'll be interesting to see how this changes the industry landscape. Hopefully this will mean more money for the developers to play around with.

No problem, you just dont realize the repercussions it has for every hard working, honest member of the gaming press, which is no fault of yours.

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TalkBack / RE: Viviendi, Activision Merge to Form Activision Blizzard

« on: December 02, 2007, 07:18:13 AM »

Holy crap!

edit: Holy crapping crap!

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General Chat / RE: Gamespot Editor fired for 'unfavorable' review?

« on: December 01, 2007, 09:00:15 PM »

http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=212952 1up joins the fray

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General Chat / RE: What's Bloodworth Up To? Kairon thinks his video reviews are superficial.

« on: December 01, 2007, 04:09:16 PM »

:;smacks:: Bad Kairon! Bad! No dinner for you! Go to your room and think about what you did right now!

[Third party acessory manufacturer Nyko announces The Perfect Shot and Net Connect.]

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TalkBack / Nyko Reveals New Wii Peripherals

« on: November 28, 2007, 02:11:57 PM »

Third party acessory manufacturer Nyko announces The Perfect Shot and Net Connect.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14885

 Nyko Takes Aim With Perfect Shot And Net Connect Accessories For Wii    

Ergonomic Gun Grip and USB Network Adapter To Enhance Wii Gaming Experience    

  Los Angeles, CA - November 28, 2007 - Nyko Technologies®, a premier peripherals manufacturer, today announced the Perfect Shot and Net Connect-two new products for the Nintendo Wii.    

Nyko's Perfect Shot is the ideal complement to blaster/shooting games on the Wii, allowing players to experience more tactile control and accuracy during intense gaming sessions. The Perfect Shot holds the Wii remote with a secure locking system and allows players to hit the remote's B button using a tactile trigger mechanism. The lightweight and ergonomic design allows for extended use with less strain in the arm and hand. The Perfect Shot can also be used in conjunction with other peripherals by utilizing a pass-through port. This allows players to attach a Nunchuck or Classic Controller to the unit, providing more compatibility with other titles.    

For gamers looking for an easy-to-use method to connect the Wii to a non-wireless Internet connection, the Nyko Net Connect is the solution. The Net Connect provides a high-speed Internet connection for the Wii, requiring only a Cat5 Ethernet cable and an existing Internet connection. With no complex setup codes or installation software, players can get their Wii online by plugging the device in to one of the Wii's USB ports and attaching it to their home network. Once online, the players can take full advantage of the Wii's unique online offerings, including the Opera Browser, WiiConnect24, Mii Parade, and all other online gameplay features for Wii video games.    

"The Perfect Shot and Net Connect demonstrate Nyko's commitment to providing gamers with the most useful gaming accessories on the market," said Chris Arbogast, Marketing Manager for Nyko. "Whether you're looking for pinpoint accuracy in your favorite shooting games or a hassle-free solution for getting your Wii online, we're confident that both of our new products will fit your gaming needs."    

The Perfect Shot and Net Connect will be available early in December at retailers nationwide and Nyko's online store for $14.99 and $24.99, respectively.

22

TalkBack / RE: Happy Birthday Wii!

« on: November 18, 2007, 08:55:51 PM »

This is an exciting day in an exciting time.

[The little console that could is now one year old.]

23

TalkBack / Happy Birthday Wii!

« on: November 18, 2007, 06:01:58 PM »

The little console that could is now one year old.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14827

 That's right, Nintendo released the Wii exactly one year ago as of today. As you can imagine, a lot has happened between then and now, and today the lucky thirteen million Wii owners around the world celebrate not only the first anniversary of their console's release, but also the nearly constant string of historic events during this timeframe. There is a wonderful thread crafted by veteran poster pap64 on the events that have happened so far in the Wii's first year on the market. Feel free to join the forums and join us in celebrating this historic year in gaming.

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TalkBack / RE: REVIEWS: Spider-Man: Friend or Foe

« on: November 17, 2007, 02:13:23 PM »

This game just frustrated me time and time again, an absolute atrocity to gaming as a whole

[Or: How to ruin a franchise.]

25

TalkBack / REVIEWS: Spider-Man: Friend or Foe

« on: November 17, 2007, 05:19:12 AM »

Or: How to ruin a franchise.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/reviewArt.cfm?artid=14826

 Over the course of the video game industry's history, Spider-Man has seen his fair share of good games and bad games. Spider-Man: Friend or Foe joins the Wall of Shame, unfortunately, as this game seems to throw out everything good about the previous Spider-Man games in favor of a quick and easy cash-in on the franchise's success.    

Spider-Man: Friend or Foe is a classic beat 'em up game in the same vein as those horrible Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles games that have been released in recent years. The story is that Spidey is drafted by Colonel Nick Fury of S.H.I.E.L.D. and teleported onto a "helicarrier" for a quick briefing on the situation at hand. Someone, it turns out, has been using symbiote-soaked meteorite shards to control the minds of super villains and create mysterious enemies called Phantoms, who are, in turn, wreaking all manner of havoc around the world. It'll be Spider-Man's job to defeat his archenemies, recruit them, and fight alongside them to find the mastermind.    

The core concept of Friend or Foe, turning your enemies into allies, is an interesting premise in itself, but the numerous design decisions, which are questionable at best, mar the experience. Graphics are simple and bland, looking worse than the Spider-Man games from years past in many cases, including the more recent Spider-Man 3. Character models lack any real detail, and while they are animated well enough, the blaring lack of detail kills any hint of immersion. Environments are also a kill-joy, sporting minimal amounts of geometry and often muddy textures. Worse yet, there are hints of slowdown from time to time.    

Sound in this game is best described as "generic". The in-game music is horribly repetitive and boring, a far cry from the past console Spider-Man games, which had notably better music and overall sound. The only saving grace this part of the game has to be the decent to good voice acting. The best part of the entire game has to be the computer on the helicarrier, which often spits out humorous or sarcastic remarks.    

Gameplay is deep, yet repetitive. Being a beat 'em up game, repetition is just the nature of the genre, and the game attempts to remedy it by adding a character upgrade system for Spidey and his comrades. The upgrades at times add something to the gameplay, but for the most part, they seem awkward and forced. Another attempt at variety is seen in the combo system, which adds depth to the game. It's admittedly fun juggling an enemy in a constant combo loop for as long as you can, but the novelty of that soon wears off. There are unlockables in the game, but those are found easily just by going through the levels as you should, offering up no challenge or exploration aspects to the already simple game. Difficulty is also another issue, as the game never even attempts to challenge the player in the least bit.    

The Wii version of Friend or Foe incorporates motion sensitive controls into the gameplay mechanics, allowing the player to switch between different combos on the fly. While this sounds good on paper, the execution is just plain poor. The motion controls aren't always responsive, which leaves you with one or two different combos you can do out of the three or four possible combos that are available.    

This game could have been good, but almost every aspect of Spider-Man: Friend or Foe falls flat on its face. As a fan of the sandbox style Spider-Man games, I must say I am deeply disappointed that Activision chose to go the easy route instead of giving fans another high quality game. Avoid this game at all costs; it's not even worth a rental.

Pros:
       

Deep combo system

 

Well written script

 

Excellent voice acting

 

Character upgrades

       Cons:
       

Motion controls haphazardly implemented

 

Repetitive gameplay

 

Generic music and sound effects

 

Subpar visuals

               Graphics:  3.0
       Extremely ugly, almost first generation Dreamcast graphics are an eyesore. Well animated character models look bland and lack detail found in previous Spider-Man games. Repetitive and linear environments dominate the game, leaving much to be desired. Slowdown is also an issue in some instances.

               Sound:  6.5
       Generic music and sound effects abound in Friend or Foe, a stark contrast to the wonderfully written and acted script, which stands far and above the voice acting of some of the better games on the market.

               Control:  3.0
       Motion controls are included, but they don't always function correctly, often leaving you stuck with two or three combos out of many combo options available to the player. The game otherwise controls exactly the same as its counterparts on other consoles, despite the addition of motion controls, which is disappointing.

                      Gameplay:  6.0
       Halfhearted character upgrades and surprisingly deep combo attacks cannot stave off the repetitiveness and monotony that plagues many games of the beat 'em up genre. Friend or Foe doesn't even offer much in the way of difficulty, which makes for ever so slightly above average gameplay.

 

       Lastability:  3.0
       There are unlockables and multiplayer modes, but with a game so unremarkable, bland, and mediocre as this, why even bother? Kids may have fun for one or two times through, but this game will quickly collect dust very soon. For older gamers, this game may hold your attention for an hour or two, and then you'll move on to something better.

 

       Final:  4.0
       This game is a disgrace to the Spider-Man franchise as a whole. Terrible graphics, generic sound, problematic controls, and boring gameplay round out this disgusting game. If you have the urge to play a Spider-Man game, I highly suggest you either check out Spider-Man 3 or the last generation offerings. They can be found on the used game rack at your local game store, which is exactly where this game will be heading for the unfortunate few who bought Friend or Foe without reading reviews first.