Topics

1

Nintendo Gaming / Super Mario 64 DS Confirmed for launch and official boxart...

« on: October 04, 2004, 04:38:20 PM »

I just read that Gamestop's online page has updated it's Super Mario 64 DS boxart for the game, it looks just like the Spiderman boxart as far as how the box is.  The art itself is much better though.  Since Spiderman is a launch title, and it's boxart has been shown, you could then assume that Super Mario 64 DS is confirmed as a launch title as well.    Super Mario 64 Boxart!

The fact that DS games look like they will use the same boxes manufactured for gba games has a significant pro and con in my opinion.  First the average shmoe may not even notice that these boxes are actually for a new console, especially if they're placed right next to gba in the stores.  If he does notice they're for a new console, he may not know what the DS actually is and put it off as just another gameboy.  However, since Nintendo will be using the same boxes, they will be saving money and they will not have to worry about shortages.

EDIT: they also have the boxart for Mario Power Tennis for GC. Mario Power Tennis

2

Nintendo Gaming / Mr. Driller DS and Pac Pix Official Sites Open

« on: October 01, 2004, 09:04:30 AM »

Mr. Driller DS and Pac Pix Official Sites Open.  Both are the Japanese sites, but this shows the games will probably be launch titles in Japan and quite possibly NA as well.  Pac Pix  Mr. Driller DS

3

General Gaming / FF XI to jump platforms?, 200 gb Blue Ray discs?

« on: September 25, 2004, 08:40:24 PM »

In the new Rumor control at Gamespot they address the issue of the PS2-2 (my own achronim for the new model) not having a HD bay.  Sony didn't think it was much of a problem because consumers who want the HD are hardcore gamers (can't argue that) and since 27 million PS2 are in hands of consumers in NA they feel people who want the HD already have the console for it.  (I agree there too)  

I mean how many consumers out there who want the HD don't already own a PS2?  The people buying a PS2 now are either casual or wouldn't have the money to afford the HD and/or FFXI fees.  The FF XI producer wasn't as upbeat, suggesting looking into changing platforms for FFXI, but his wording is a little vague, so I'm going to post half the quote here and if it's deemed a violation you can remove the quote, but please leave the rest intact.  Here's what he said regarding changing platforms for FFXI, "because once the PlayStation 2 is phased out, [the FFXI] population will have to move somewhere."  Now what I take from that is that he means the people who don't already own FFXI, who plan to for PS2, who don't already own a PS2 and won't be buying one until the first model is phased out.  I think he's a little too hopeful for FFXI sales, however if they keep making significant expansion packs like they say they may, then his opinion holds a little more weight.  I think it can be solved though by simply Sony continuing limited production of the old model PS2 for the small amount of gamers who plan to buy the console still, the HD, and the fees for FFXI (still think that's unlikely).

--BLUE RAY 200 GB--
The next thing worth reading in their rumor section was about the fact that Sony has developed an 8 layered, 200 gb Blue Ray disc for PS3.  And Sony plans on having 100 gb BR discs available to consumers in 2007.  The details if it's real will be given Oct 11-15 at some international meeting.

I don't see how they would need that much storage for games next generation.  I do know that they're pushing the medium limits now with many dual layered PS2 games and some PS2 games on two dvds.  And back in the PS1 days games were on as much as 4 cd's.  And I read something regarding how the Gran Turismo series started on 1 cd, then 2 cds, then a dvd, and now a dual layered dvd.  I really see the lowest storage amount for Blue Ray (23 gb) to be enough for a next generation game, but I could be wrong.  I have a feeling the whole 100-200 gb deal is to demonstrate that Blue Ray should be the next entertainment medium chosen instead of the competitors HD-DVD's.

4

General Gaming / New PS2 Official Nov 1

« on: September 21, 2004, 10:01:14 AM »

The rumors have finally been confirmed true.  A new PS2 model is being released this holiday season, on Nov. 1.  Pushed back a week from Oct 26, although I find that very odd.  I wouldn't be surprised to see it out on Oct 26 and possibly a PS2/GTA:SA pack in (rumored) to be available as well.

The new PS2 is 75% smaller than the current model, and alot smaller than everyone thought it would be.  It features everything the current model has and more, it includes the network adapter seemlessly built into the system.  The name will remain PS2 and will not be PStwo.  Goto Article/Pictures for more.  The price remains $150 but that includes built in network adapter ($39.99).

5

Nintendo Gaming / Good news for GC from a 3rd party? Actually, yes.

« on: September 20, 2004, 12:55:53 PM »

For the first time ever, a Splinter Cell game will be releasing simultaneously on all consoles.  That's right, Splinter Cell Chaos Theory will be released on GC the same day as XB, PC, and PS2.  The holiday lineup is most to thank for this occurence, SCCT has been pushed back to 2005, thanks to the big hitters this holiday season.  This is great for GC seeing that the previous titles came out many months after the other console vers.  Ironic that this happened because of games for the other consoles like Halo 2, GTASA, MGS3, GT4.  Check News Section

6

Nintendo Gaming / Grand Theft Auto Advance

« on: September 17, 2004, 04:39:45 PM »

I've seen 2 previews of it just recently now, and it's looking good.  It's 3 times the size of GTA 3 on PS2, and is based off that game in terms of story, etc.  The graphics don't look that great, but the engine does some good stuff you can't see in still pics.  I'm gonna wait for the reviews on this to consider buying it though.  Anyone interested in this game?  Grand Theft Auto Advance

7

General Gaming / Typing of the Dead and Sega Rally sequels

« on: September 17, 2004, 04:26:41 PM »

Whoa, this wasn't expected.  Sega is making sequels to TotD and Sega Rally.  TotD very unexpected, widely regarded as a sleeper hit that didn't have sales that did the game justice.  And Sega Rally 2005, woot!  The first Sega Rally game to be made exclusively for a console and not based on an arcade game.  Typing of the Dead
Sega Rally 2005

Both games due out next year.

8

Nintendo Gaming / Potential Killer Ap for the DS!!!

« on: September 16, 2004, 05:39:26 PM »

Another great thing in the new issue of GI (sorry if I sound like I work for them [other posts]).  Anyhooo.  Gamers in Japan who bought FF 1+2 for gba were given a special questionnaire!  SquareEnix asked them... what game they would most like to see on the DS.  FF 4, 5, 6, Chrono Trigger, Secret of Mana, Front Mission, Saga series, and others were listed as choices.  hehehe.  This is great.  I wonder what Japan gamers will choose...  (they're choosing for the world... lol).  Lucky Japanimes.

9

General Gaming / Sony buys MGM

« on: September 14, 2004, 09:23:31 PM »

Will end up gaining rights to make games on all their movies, and eventually will acquire rights to James Bond games, and Rocky.  You can thank Comcast.  Sony buys MGM?

10

Nintendo Gaming / Advance Guardian Heroes Ships

« on: September 14, 2004, 07:00:44 PM »

Ships today!

- dev. Treasure
- pub. Ubisoft
- genre: Action
- 20 playable characters
- 160 moves
- cooperative + versus modes
- sequel to 1996 Saturn title
- $29.99

Who here plans on getting this soon?  I'm gonna have to wait on this one, still playing too many games I already got, and someones birthday in a few days, and saving my money for some console games too.  Anyways, if anyone gets this soon, could you write some impressions about it here, or a Review in the Readers Review section.  If anyone digs up some more info post it!

11

General Gaming / Cell almost complete

« on: September 14, 2004, 06:44:10 PM »

In development since 2001 by Toshiba, Sony, & IBM.  Toshiba president says, "It will change the world."  Commercial production to begin next year.  Sony comments that graphics workstations using the Cell could be available by winter.  LINK  

They're gonna have to get moving, considering new reports I read today in GI claim Xbox 2 is looking like it will be out by 2005 (I'll have more on that later), and many developers have dev kits already for Xbox 2.  Anyways, as always news about the next generation proves to be as exciting as any generation before (more on that later).  Gotta go play Suikoden 3...

12

General Gaming / GI World Exclusive Look at 1st Next Generation Game

« on: September 14, 2004, 06:02:38 PM »

The October issue of GI, not yet out to stores, arrived today in the mail.  The first game it appears to be shown for Next Generation systems, is on the cover.  The game is.... (anticipation....)..... The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion by Bethesda Softworks.  It is currently to be made for Xbox 2, PS3, and PC.  Whether it will come to NR I don't know yet (have not had time to read the big article yet).  Anyways, it could have to do with the fact that XB2 Dev Kits are already in the hands of developers, and the current userbase of PS2.  The game is a 1 player rpg.  The graphics for the game look better than anything I've seen yet for real time, ofcourse the closest current game would have to be Doom 3, but this game is far different than a corridor shooter, and given what it appears you can do in the game (rpg like exploring through forests all the way upto huge Mountains in the distance) it is alot more impressive.  Based on pictures alone I'd give this game a 9 and Doom 3 an 8.  I'm not familar with Bethesda Softworks all that much so I can't say anything about the graphics in their current games, and what kind of increase is seen in this game, or even if they've been known for graphically impressive titles before.  Did they the Xbox version of Morrowind?  If so, they've made a huge jump here, understandably given the hardware differences.

Anyways, I'll read the article soon and be back with alot more information.  Here's some short snippets of quotes, "the pictures are from Xbox 2 development," it is not known how the game will look on PS3 because dev kits are not available yet.  Several of the desks of programmers had pc-sized objects covered up in black cloth and GI was not allowed near them.  Reading another short snippet, the executive producer also has interest in Nintendo's Revolution.  He also predicts the average length of nex gen games will shrink for two primary reasons: budgets and schedules for games won't change much but the enhanced graphics will require more development time.  Second, it's a statistic fact that gamers prefer shorter games (this is from a guy who makes long rpgs, so...).  Anyways, I'll be back with more eventually, including different threads about exciting new stuff from this issue of GI.

[-Sorry I couldn't resist editing the title. Magazines almost never have new quotes, and this is no exception. -Bloodworth]

13

Nintendo Gaming / New DS news 9/13/04

« on: September 14, 2004, 05:38:09 PM »

Hot off the presses today!  Or more aptly put, the new issue of GI that came in the mail today, I subscribe to (not yet out to stores).  

Good News:
"some rumors say that it will even appear before Thanksgiving."

Not much to comment here, that's excellent if it turns true, getting the system out before Turkey Day could make a big impact on the DS' holiday/launch sales.

Bad News:
Reggie Fils-Aime quote, "The DS will also be equipped to allow long distance connections via wireless internet browser... but as we know, we're still some time away from actually having wireless head-to-head play in any contemporary game sense."

I don't know if that 2nd comment was already posted online somewhere, but anyways I included it incase it has not been.  Anyways, although it is bad news that there will be no wireless online play for some time, if at all.  I didn't expect it for launch titles or even titles to release through Q1/2/3 of next year (not financial quarters, seasons).  However, I hope it is included eventually, I would say they should atleast make some dip into it by Nov 2005, it could be a great testing ground to determine an online strategy for the Revolution, and alot easier given the DS' built in technology.  If they don't release any title that can go online in some form (something small as downloadables); (before the Revolution comes out) then I think they kinda didn't take an opportunity to test the market directly (rather than watching other statistics/companies).  Basically I think it would be easy testing ground and if it wasn't very successful it wouldn't hurt them much (E-Reader comes to mind).

-Sorry I couldn't resist editing the title.  Magazines almost never have new quotes, and this is no exception. -Bloodworth

14

General Gaming / The only good use of the Eyetoy

« on: September 14, 2004, 05:17:15 PM »

I believe the Eyetoy can be capable of some innovative concepts, but they have not materialized yet.  Perhaps it will take time as the gba gc connectivity feature did.  But they have less time than the latter, now that the current generation of consoles is entering it's last couple years.  Anyways, from what I've seen MLB 2005 looks like it does a commendable job with the eyetoy.  Basically it takes a photo of you and lets you map your face onto players in the game.  I imagine you could do this and make a complete team of personal people you know, or even be more creative.  Anyways, I don't think it's the first sports game to do it, but to me this is the only thing thus far I've seen that would make me think about purchasing an Eyetoy, ofcourse even then I'd wait until it was cheap <25 bucks.  Does anyone know of other sports games that let you do this, or even non sports games?  It would be pretty cool if you could do it for say... the people on the sidelines of tracks in Gran Turismo 4... you could do yourself and then driveby and think (what the hell lol that was me!).  Or you could do something like a models face providing you had a good poster of her, and have a bunch of hot chicks cheering you on, or whatever lol.  Even better would be if you could do it for the drivers too, or say villans in games, or heroes like Solid Snake.  Although most people would think that could ruin the game, but I say after you beat it, it would be a nice feature.  Anyways my rant is over.

15

NWR Feedback / PGC DKC 2 GBA Review

« on: September 14, 2004, 05:05:26 PM »

In your review of DKC 2 for the gba, you state that Rare developed the gba addition of the game, but I thought Nintendo was responsible for the upcoming release, both on the publishing side and developer side.

16

General Gaming / another exclusive gone? sorta but not really.

« on: September 11, 2004, 07:21:05 PM »

Harvest Moon Oh! Wonderful Life is the tentative name for the next Harvest Moon console game, this time on PS2.  Supposedly not coming until 2006, although I think 2005 could be very likely, the game is based off the GC release but has some substantial additions, including: you may now have either a boy or a girl for a child when you get married, there are now upto 4 wives to court for marriage, and perhaps the best one is that you may continue to build up your farm even after the story campaign.  

Now at first I said to myself, hmm another 'port' of an exlusive GC title to the PS2.  But really, Harvest Moon games that have been released between consoles during the same generation have been largely based off the prior release.  For instance, HMOL on GC was basically an enhanced port of the earlier PS2 release.  So in this situation, it's just the opposite.  I don't know how well HMOL sold, but maybe that was one of the reasons too, or perhaps that the time that would've been spent on a brand new PS2 release isn't possible because they're making Harvest Moon for the DS and PSP.

17

Nintendo Gaming / Namco announcing new Tales game for gba

« on: September 09, 2004, 07:53:04 PM »

Namco announcing new Tales game for gba.  Apparently, the game will be the third in the Narikiri Dungeon RPG series on the gba.  The first two never came to the US.  But who knows, it could possibly make it to the US, if ToS does well.  Linky

18

General Gaming / Radiata Stories Website Launches Today! Linky

« on: September 09, 2004, 07:39:19 PM »

SquareEnix brand new rpg Radiata Stories, developed by Tri-Ace, will have it's website launching today 9-10-04.  The game sounds very exciting.  Radiata Stories

19

General Gaming / Want to gamble in casinos by playing videogames?

« on: September 09, 2004, 07:23:47 PM »

That is just what might happen in the future.  There are casino slot machines coming out, where yes, part of the gamble is your performance in playing old classic videogames.  So if you're good, you're gonna make more money!  I always wanted something like this, I just hope it goes over well.  Maybe one day, there will be legalized online gaming gambling lol.  Ah, that would be a nice... job.  2nd article on page

20

General Gaming / new Atari system, sort of

« on: September 07, 2004, 08:26:29 PM »

It's good to have a chance to own such games, including the arcade ports as well.  I love how the new system is basically exactly like my 7800, even the controllers, and yay there's 2 of them...  could they possibly work on my 7800, I doubt it but hehe oh well hehe.  Anyways this is a good direction for those plug n play game releases, it's a step forward from the ones out now that feature 5 games, require batteries, and only have 1 controller.  Hopefully, more advancements will happen in the coming years.  Linky

21

General Gaming / FF Advent Children the look of SE on next gen?

« on: September 05, 2004, 08:04:58 PM »

Gamespot just had a new preview of FF Advent Children, and it had me thinking.  Is this a good representation of the graphics and/or cutscenes that will happen in their next gen games, primarily FF.  Or is it movie quality and nothing more pertaining to their next gen games from a technical standpoint?  Post your thoughts.  I guess I think the cutscenes of their next gen games should definitely rival FFAC, and perhaps the real time graphics could be almost as good too, atleast better than half as good.  Only time will tell I guess.

22

General Gaming / Sonic Mega Collection PS2/XB Bound with extras

« on: September 02, 2004, 08:44:35 PM »

Due out on Nov 2, Sonic Mega Collection Plus will contain additional things from the prior release, details coming soon.  Here's the final list of games:

Game Gear games
Sonic the Hedgehog
Sonic Chaos
Sonic Drift
Sonic Labyrinth
Dr. Robotnik’s Mean Bean Machine
Sonic Blast

Genesis games
Sonic the Hedgehog
Sonic the Hedgehog 2
Sonic the Hedgehog 3
Sonic & Knuckles
Sonic 3D Blast
Sonic the Hedgehog Spinball
Dr. Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine

Unlockable Genesis games
The Ooze
Comix Zone
Flicky
Ristar

The game will retail for $20.

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General Gaming / A first for an arcade game?

« on: September 02, 2004, 08:17:12 PM »

Tekken 5 will be coming to US arcades next month.  And in what I think could be a first for an arcade game, you will be able to use a PS2 controller instead if you want, by simply connecting it to the game.  Good to see some faint life left in the arcade business.  Personally, I think arcades should feature online play with other arcades and/or home consoles.  Or that less games should be featured, and the games that are featured should be more like a lan party in a sense that 10 people or so could all compete against each other in the same arcade game, and have team based game types as well (2v2,3v3,4v4,5v5, or uneven matches).  Including weekly stat tracking and overall leaderboards.

Another more radical idea, would be to offer a console game in a special version, that cost perhaps 10 dollars more but allowed you free play of the game at the arcade which features the same game.  It could be regulated by 10 minute optimum play time intervals or more/less (depending on the type of game) and ofcourse still offer play to people who didn't buy the console version at a regular arcade cost for the game.

Or another option for those who bought the special console version could be that the game cost you only 25 cents each play, with unlimited play, instead of 75 cents or a dollar.  Or 5 cents for 25 cent games and 10 cents for 50 cent games.  Whatever the case, something needs to be done to make arcades viable again, less we never see them again =(.

24

General Gaming / share thoughts on these N64 games

« on: August 28, 2004, 04:51:43 PM »

Wow I couldn't believe it when I saw it, I went to Gamestop and whoa and behold there were a good 200 N64 games on the floor racks all up for sale! (most of the games were multiple copies). So being a videogame freak I decided to purchase all the great games I could find.  Heres the list and prices of the games I picked up tonight.

Wave Race 64 $4.99
The original WR, a must buy.

Star Wars: Shadows of the Empire $4.99
amazing game, enough said.

Doom 64 $7.99
best single player version of Doom to date.

Goldeneye 007 $7.99
no comment...

Perfect Dark $4.99
hehe, woot it's even in complete mint condition!

Star Fox 64 $4.99
awesome game, never got to play the single player parts, yet.

1080 Snowboarding $4.99
bought this the day it came out, glad to have it again.

N64 Rumble Pack (Nintendo) $1.99
wootness.

N64 Memory Card (Nintendo) $4.99
the first store had none of these, he said the 2nd possibly could have some type of memory card for N64, but it was highly unlikely... well... THEY DID!

N64 Console $19.99
it's been too long without you... also had to get this at the second store another 30 minutes away.

Pilotwings 64 $5.99
ah when I saw this, I smiled even more.

Excitebike 64 $12.99
never owned this, but had two friends who did, and I still think it's the best dirtbike racer to this day.

All together after the 10% discount of the used games + accessories, the total came to about $84 dollars.  Now I just need to buy the expansion pack which is quite expensive $20, and then I'm gonna pick up Mario Golf and Ogre Battle 64.  Share thoughts on these games, and any cool or humorous stories you had with them back in the day.  

25

General Gaming / Soundtrack for Burnout 3

« on: August 23, 2004, 10:03:08 PM »

More songs than any other EA title since 2002.  Yet, not one song I know of...  And barely any bands I've heard.  Guess I just don't like most new music?  Or is this soundtrack the pits? Burnout 3 ST