Showing posts with label metal gear solid. Show all posts
Showing posts with label metal gear solid. Show all posts

Wednesday, 12 March 2014

NEWS: Peace Walker HD Free With MGSV: Ground Zeroes

Pre-ordering Ground Zeroes via the PlayStation Store will come with a free digital copy of Peace Walker HD.

Community Manager of Konami, Su-Yina Farmer, has revealed via the EU PlayStation blog, that an added bonus will be included for those pre-ordering Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes through the PlayStation Store.

This includes a chance to download Peace Walker HD, which was originally released on PSP in 2010. The offer is available from now until March 20 - in an attempt to persuade more people to place their pre-orders, Farmer said:

"Whether you are new to Metal Gear or a veteran of the saga, you cannot miss the opportunity of (re)discovering what makes MGS such a unique and well-loved game franchise."

Ground Zeroes will hit shelves both virtually and physically on March 18 in North America, and March 20 throughout Japan and Europe.

Wednesday, 5 March 2014

REVIEW: Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance

Whilst taking a departure from the core values of most Metal Gear games, Revengeance is an interesting take on the Raiden character.


Developer: Platinum Games | Publisher: Konami| Genre: Action

PlayStation 3 | Xbox 360 | Windows PC

Offering a generally fun overall experience, Rising stands on its own as an action game with some extremely corny one-liners.

Taking place after the events of Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots (MGS4), a lot has changed - 'The Patriots' are no more due to numerous Private Military Companies (PMC's) destroying the specialist organisation. Now, the world is riddled with PMC groups who have created cyborg technology capable of manufacturing soldiers equipped with superhuman abilities, including Raiden himself.

Raiden is now working for a PMC group known as Maverick Securities consisting of various specialists in certain fields such as military and computer technology. Whilst some PMC's are trying to bring good to the world, many are doing the exact opposite - this is where Desperado Enterprises comes in, who's mission it is to encourage war so they can take advantage of its various rewards including money and further evolution of technology.

Raiden is hired to protect the African Prime Minister N'mani - who wishes to see the world at peace, specifically Africa, this doesn't go down very well with Desperado Enterprises, who eventually ambush Raiden and N'mani. This is essentially where the game starts - you're put in control of Raiden once again who is hell-bent on hunting down the attacker, however this as you will find out, is not the biggest problem Raiden faces by any means.

Right from the start, you're put straight into the action, which is quickly followed by a tutorial if you wish to go over any of the gameplay mechanics - this is advised as whilst this game might seem like a straight up action game, more tactics are involved than initially meets the eye. One of the first abilities you'll come across is the option to utilize Raiden's 'Ninja Run', which is an effective way of dodging enemy bullets and overcoming physical obstacles - ultimately this is a lazy way of maneuvering the landscapes as you won't be required to do anything except hold down a single button.

Expanding on his ways with a sword in Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty (MGS2), Raiden is now equipped with a high-frequency blade that has the ability to slice through practically anyone and anything that gets in its way. Raiden can enter a trance-like state, in which you are able to slash through enemies at an extremely rapid pace, making for massive damage and long combos - this is a great way of disposing the more difficult enemies and looks visually awesome as splatters of blood shower the environment around you.

Occasionally you'll have the chance to explore the game's very minor stealth elements, which consist of sneaking up behind enemies and taking them down in a quick series of attacks - this is something you should explore as it saves a lot time, making for a better rank at the end of battles and/or chapters. You will be given a rank based on various aspects including damage taken, time spent, the amount of combos and so forth - this often encourages replaying a certain chapter, especially if you're into getting the best possible outcomes, it's also a good opportunity to claim bragging rights if you manage to get an S rank throughout the entire game.

Enemies range from some pretty simple cyborgs who don't put up much of a challenge at all, more of practice in preparation for the enemies further on in the game, including Metal Gear's themselves - boss fights have a strange learning curve as some of the earlier fights are often more difficult than the later ones. Either way, most boss encounters are both enjoyable to play out and visually striking as most villains are throughout the entire Metal Gear franchise. review1

Whilst Rising is a massive departure from the stealth espionage elements seen throughout the Metal Gear franchise, it shouldn't put gamers off too much - as an action game, it does its job very well offering some over the top sequences, including jumping on moving missiles and taking down a helicopter. If you're a veteran of the series, Rising could come as a shock due to the sheer amount of difference, but once you've seen past that, you'll have a generally good time plowing through enemies, accompanied with a healthy amount of challenging gameplay.

7/10

Tuesday, 25 February 2014

NEWS: Exclusive DLC Available For MGS V: The Phantom Pain

Konami has detailed various advantages of purchasing Ground 
Zeroes earlier rather than later.


A press release from Konami has given players reasons to purchase the upcoming Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes during its initial release.

An exclusive DLC which promises "players with additional resources for a Mother Base area", meaning upon eventually starting Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, will award you extra staff to give you the upper hand when heading into The Phantom Pain.

Those who want to take part in these specific benefits must purchase Ground Zeroes during its first batch of release and also for a "limited period of time for the digital version."

Ground Zeroes is to hit shelves March 18 and acts as a short prequel to The Phantom Pain - both will be available on PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, and Xbox One.

Tuesday, 18 February 2014

NEWS: MGS V Ground Zeroes Fox Edition PS4 Revealed

A special edition of the PS4 has been displayed, showing off the all too familiar Fox logo.



Spotted on the official Japanese Sony store is the 'Fox Edition' of the PS4 (see above), which is to release just next month. There are currently no confirmation of plans to release the special bundle outside of Japan.

Seen on the PS4 is the Fox emblem, which can be seen throughout the franchise and stands as one of the most notable symbols in gaming. Costing a total of ¥46, 980 (£275 / $459), those who purchase the bundle will receive a copy of the game along with the PS4 console.

Ground Zeroes is the prologue to The Phantom Pain, which will launch March 18 in North America and March 20 in Japan and Europe.

Tuesday, 10 December 2013

NEWS: Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes - Box Art Revealed

Both the PS3 and Xbox 360 box arts have been revealed today for the highly anticipated MGS V prequel.


With Konami's recent announcement that the game will release March 18, they have also revealed the official box arts, showing off a up close image of Big Boss himself. It's safe to assume the PS4 and Xbox One versions of the game will share the same covers. Check them out below.



MGS V: Ground Zeroes will give players an insight into the events prior to The Phantom Pain, and will offer new styles of gameplay, whilst maintaining a healthy balance of stealth, action, and espionage.

Monday, 9 December 2013

NEWS: Metal Gear Will Continue After Kojima Retires

With or without him, Hideo Kojima would like to see the Metal Gear games to continue for at least another 25 years.
In a lengthy interview on Xbox Wire, creator of the Metal Gear franchise has shared his thoughts on the next MGS games and the future of the long-running series.

When asked about wrapping up the narratives of Big Boss and Snake, Kojima said:

"I honestly have no idea. The only thing I can say for certain is that I personally will not be able to carry "MGS" forward for another 25 years."

This could be a subtle hint at Kojima's retirement, although he announced he'd be leaving the franchise numerous times in the past, but keeps on coming back for more. 

He went on to say "with new talent at the helm guiding the series through each new stage, I can easily imagine a world 25 years from now where a new "MGS" franchise continues onward into the future."

However, at the Games Developers Conference (GDC) back in 2009, Kojima stated he would continue to make games till the day he died.

Sunday, 17 November 2013

PREVIEW: Metal Gear Solid V Ground Zeroes - New Gameplay Footage

A lengthy video has been released, showing off what players can expect in the prologue game; MGS V Ground Zeroes.



Footage taken directly from the PS4 version of the game has been shown off recently, demonstrating various features in the game. As well as the main narrative, players can choose from various side missions via the 'Side Ops' option on the menu screen - one of those missions can be seen in the video.

It's pointed out that side missions can take place at the same locations used during the main game, allowing for different styles of gameplay and different objectives. The particular mission shown is set at the Naval Prison Facility in Cuba,  the same base we saw in the TGS 2013 demonstration.

Big Boss must meet with an undercover agent who holds a cassette tape containing classified information, first he needs to actually locate this agent - the player decides to stay in the truck whilst periodically looking over the top to mark enemies he may see, decreasing possible future encounters.

By marking these particular enemies on the map, this lets players tactically decide which route would be best - whether it be to avoid detection or other reasons they may have. The gun's reticle can sometimes turn white, meaning the player is out of that weapon's target range, which means you'll have to align your reticle in accordance to the bullet's travel distance i.e. aiming just above an enemy's head so the bullet 'drops' during the shot, making for a clean take-out.

Eventually, the player makes his way to the informant mentioned earlier, but doesn't get all of the information needed as the tape is stashed somewhere in the camp - after getting the location of this stash, a waypoint is placed on the map, enabling players to easily get to desired destinations.

You'll probably notice the weather is actually good - very sunny and calming, however this will prove a nuisance as it will highly increase the visibility of yourself, allowing enemies for easier detection. The game will use certain weather conditions to alter how players navigate certain missions.

And like Peace Walker, players can utilize 'Consecutive Close Quarter Combat', enabling you to take down more than one enemy at time using CQC tactics. Casual players do have the option to turn on 'Reflex Mode', which slows down the time after being spotted by the enemy, allowing for easier gameplay, although it's advised seasoned players turn this option off.

For the sake of the demonstration, the player purposely sets the escape helicopter landing point in a danger zone, showcasing the various challenges you might come across. The nearby Sniper rifle is used to take out a bunch of enemies, but considering how many there are - the player decides to make a run for it using his trusty MRS-4 assault rifle and the numerous obstacles around him to use as cover.

The chopper get's blown down, so escaping the camp that way just went out of the window - however, there are many ways to finish a mission. In this case, the player decides to outrun one of the enemy vehicles and lead it to a cliff-edge, planting C4 on the ground, which ultimately causes the oncoming vehicle to explode and end up in the ocean below.

A vacant vehicle is then taken and used to escape the base to complete the mission, all whilst mowing down groups of enemies. Also note, there will be a health regeneation system in this game, allowing for much more casual gameplay than before.

MGS V Ground Zeroes will be released spring 2014 on the PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, and Xbox One - it was recently announced the PS3/PS4 versions of the game will have access to exclusive content including an extra mission titled 'Déjà Vu', which will take players down memory lane and let you play as 'Classic Snake' from Metal Gear Solid on the PSOne. Check out the gameplay video below.

Friday, 15 November 2013

NEWS: MGS V Ground Zeroes - Classic Snake Available As Playstation Exclusive

The PlayStation versions of MGS V Ground Zeroes will contain exclusive content, allowing players to play as Solid Snake from MGS1.


At the PS4 launch event on Spike TV, Konami revealed exclusive content only available on the PS3/4 versions of the game; Metal Gear Solid V Ground Zeroes. This included a 'Déjà Vu' mission, which according to Hideo Kojima, should leave players questioning if anything has really changed in the last 16 years. 

The video shows a wounded Big Boss taking out various enemies at the enemy base, sneaking around - the usual MGS stuff. It's then we see glimpses of the 'classic' Snake originating from the 1998 phenomenon; Metal Gear Solid.
The Solid Snake character model from MGS1 - feel old yet?

We see classic Snake eventually make his way to a cage which contains a man who highly resembles the Darpa Chief - an iconic character in the series. The blurb on the video talks about how the series "set new standards in videogame storytelling", as well as the limitations of the graphics back when Metal Gear Solid was making its release - "In an age when graphics were limited to blocky pixelated polygons."

Releasing in spring 2014, MGS V Ground Zeroes will officially be the prologue to MGS V The Phantom Pain, also released around the same time.

Tuesday, 5 November 2013

NEWS: Metal Gear Rising Revengeance - Free DLC

Two pieces of DLC are now free to download, as well as a lowering of the game's price.



Konami have announced that the DLC's; Jetstream and Bladewolf are now available to download completely free of charge - a decision was made to also reduce the price of the game in US to $29.99, with no mention of a reduction in other territories.

A statement was made by Konami in regards to the announcement:

"The lower price point gives new fans the opportunity to experience the game at a reduced price, with the added bonus free DLC packs that lengthen the overall experience."

MGS Revengeance was recently added to the PlayStation Plus service as a free download throughout Europe.

Tuesday, 11 June 2013

FEATURE: E3 2013 Highlights - The Games

Tons of games were shown at E3, so read on as Gaming Till Dawn recaps on the highlights.


A lot has been happening at this year's Electronic Arts Expo at the  Los Angeles Convention Center - new titles announced, new features, and so on - I'm going to be giving you a breakdown of the games that have been shown and what we can expect in the future for gaming.

Gameplay Reveal - Destiny
Destiny will be the first game Bungie are making after their departure from Microsoft, and it promises to be something special and unique in every sense of the meaning.

Developer: Bungie
Publisher: Activision
Platforms: PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Xbox One
Genre: Role-Playing, Action Role-Playing, First Person Shooter
Release Date: Late 2013 or Early 2014

Watch the gameplay here:

Things To Remember:
  • Stunning Visuals
  • Vast Landscapes
  • Leveling Up System
  • Co-Operative Play 
  • Revive System
  • Player Skills & Abilities
  • "Fallen" Enemies Introduced
  • Boss Battle Shown
  • Character Customization
  • Loot Drops
  • Weapon Modifications
  • Airborne and Ground Vehicles
  • Online Play - "Public Event"
  • Enemies Health Is Displayed
Gameplay Reveal - Wolfenstein: The New Order
Ah, Wolfenstein - what started off as a small project within the walls of ID has now evolved into an FPS franchise that keeps on giving and giving. And I'm fine with that.

Developer: Machine Games
Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
Platforms: Windows, PS4, PS3, Xbox One, Xbox 360
Genre: First Person Shooter
Release Date: December 2013

Watch the gameplay here:

Things To Remember:
  • Mechanical Enemies - Most Likely Robots
  • New York Bombed - Possibly A Playable Location
  • Nazi Warfare
  • New Weapons
  • Melee Attack
Gameplay: Watch Dogs
Watch Dogs looks to be one of the most interesting games of E3, in the past we've seen snippets of the game and its narrative, but after watching the gameplay, I'm positive you'll be wanting more.

Developer: Ubisoft Montreal
Publisher: Ubisoft
Platforms: Windows, PS3, PS4, WiiU, 
Genre: Action-Adventure, Sandbox/Open World, Stealth, 3rd Person Shooter
Release Date: November 2013 / Late 2013 for PS4/Xbox One

Watch the gameplay here:

Things To Remember: 
  • Mini-Map with Waypoints
  • Beautiful Weather Visuals
  • Incredible Audio 
  • Numerous Hacking Devices and Other Gadgets
  • Practically All Electrical Items Can Be Hacked 
  • Aiden Works With Someone - Neither Friend or Foe
  • Able To See People's Information (Age, Occupation, Income, Blood Type, etc.)
  • Able To Determine How Violent Someone Is
  • Can Control Trains, Traffic Lights, and Bridges
  • Melee Weapons and Guns
  • Wears Mask, Hat, and Trench Coat For Stealth
  • Manipulate The World Around You
  • Slow-Motion Shooting
  • Can Rescue Civilians
  • Joseph Demarco - One of Many Villains
  • Police Chases
New Game Reveal: Ray's The Dead
One of the new games announced at E3 this year was Ray's The Dead, which looks to be very interesting - instead of fighting against the zombies, you are the zombie....

Developer: Rag Tag Studio
Publisher: N/A
Platforms: PS4
Genre: Action, Puzzle, Strategy
Release Date: TBA
Watch the trailer here:

Things To Remember:
  • "Ray" Wears A Device On His Head - Converts Humans Into Zombies
  • Can Convert Animals Into Zombies
  • Able To Command Zombies 
  • Zombies Able To Destroy Obstructions (Cars, Blockades, etc)
  • PlayStation 4 Exclusive
New Game Reveal: The Order: 1886
One of the most promising games this year was The Order: 1886, expect to play with history in this alternate  timeline of the industrial revolution - this time around you're fighting against inhumane enemies with what the revolution has to offer.

Publisher: Ready At Dawn
Developer: Sony Computer Entertainment 
Platforms: PS4
Genre: Third-Person, Action-Adventure, 3rd-Person Shooter
Release Date: TBA
Watch the trailer:

Things To Remember:
  • Quote At The Beginning Is From Real Literature
  • Set in London
  • Alternative History
  • Advanced Weaponry
  • Two Men in the Carriage - Twins?
  • Man and Woman in Carriage Look More "Modern" Than The Two Men
  • Enemies Move Fast and Able To Climb
Gameplay Reveal: The Evil Within

A lot of people are saying The Evil Within is the next step in survival horror, with it's gritty visuals and eerie gameplay, watch the video and decide for yourself.

Publisher: Tango Gameworks
Developer: Bethesda Softworks
Platforms: Windows, PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Xbox One
Genre: 3rd-Person, Survival Horror, Action-Adventure
Release Date: 2014 (No specific date)

Watch the gameplay here:

Things To Remember:
  • Minimal or No HUD 
  • Main Character - Sebastian/Police Detective
  • Gameplay Takes Place In An Asylum
  • Mix of Survival And Action
  • Must Be Resourceful - Weapons/Ammo Not Too Common
  • Emphasizes On The Survival Horror Aspect
  • Headshots Don't Kill Enemies Instantly
  • Enemies "Play Dead"
  • "Chainsaw Guy" - Instant Kill (Much like the Chainsaw Ganados From RE4)
  • "Safe Man" - Most Likely A Boss or Mini-Boss
  • Player Can Be Victim To Various Traps
  • Barbed Wire Is A Common Theme
  • Numerous Types of Enemies
  • Possibly Real-Life Cutscenes
Gameplay Reveal: Batman: Arkham Origins
There's been a lot of comic franchise video-games, and when I first heard another Batman game was being made, I was skeptic to the idea of it actually being good, considering past Batman games were pretty bad. But when the Arkham series showed up, all those negatives were ruled out, as it turned out to be one of the best video-games ever made, at least in my opinion. And at this year's E3, we were treated with gameplay from the latest in the series; Arkham Origins.

Developer: Warner Bros. Games Montreal
Publisher: Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment
Platforms: Windows, PS3, Xbox 360, Wii U
Genre: Action-Adventure, 3rd-Person, Comic Book
Release Date: October 25, 2013

Watch the gameplay here:

Things To Remember:
  • Prequel To Asylum/City
  • Bruce Wayne Has Only Been Batman For 2 Years
  • The Notion of Batman Is Still A Myth
  • The Joker Is Back
  • Batman Is Considered An Outlaw and/or Vigilante
  • Game Is Set on Christmas Eve
  • "The Black Mask" - Major Villain 
  • Total of 8 Assassins Hired To Kill Batman
  • Playable World Is Bigger Than Arkham City
  • Batman Drops From An Airborne Vehicle - New Method of Transport?
  • New Movement Styles
  • Experience Gained Is Broken Down Into Categories - "5 Enemy Kills", "Throwable Object", etc.
  • You Get Graded On How Well You Do
  • "Most Wanted" Campaigns - One of Many Side-Missions
  • "Martial Artist" - New Type of Enemy
  • Able To Double-Counter Attack
  • Each Encounter Has a "Threat Level" - Higher It Is, Harder The Battle Will Be
  • Able To Reconstruct A Crime-Scene - New Addition To Detective Mode
  • New Gadget - The Remote Claw
Gameplay Reveal: Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain
Another MGS? Apparently so, I genuinely thought the series would have finished with Guns of the Patriots, but I'm not complaining - the game is both a sequel and a prequel in the sense it takes place after the events of Peace Walker (1975 to be precise), but also acts as a prequel considering other MGS titles. Big Boss is back, and what we've seen at E3 promises to be something very special.

Developer: Kojima Productions
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: PS3, PS4, Xbox, Xbox One
Genre: Action-Adventure, Stealth, 3rd-Person
Release Date: TBA
Watch the gameplay here:

Things To Remember:
  • Big Boss Is The Main Character - Now Known As "Punished Snake"
  • Big Boss Has A Mechanical Left Hand/Wrist
  • Kiefer Sutherland Will Voice Big Boss, Not David Hayter
  • Kazuhira Miller, Ocelot, And Huey Emmerich Make Apperances
  • Huey Emmerich Is The Father of Hal Emmerich
  • Introduces New Character "Quiet" - A Silent Sniper
  • Introduces New Character "Eli" - Young Kid
  • Introduces New Character "Skull Face" - Carries A Ghostly Presence
  • Introduces New Character "Code Talker" - An Extremely Old Wise Man
  • Sequel to Peace Walker
  • Incredible Graphics
  • Amazing Lighting-Effects
  • Distinct MGS-Sounding Music
  • Kids Are Being Taught How To Shoot Weapons
  • Major Terrorism Themes
  • Horses Are A Form of Transport
  • Able To Drive Vehicles
  • Afghanistan Is A Playable Location
  • The First Time MGS Has Gone Open-World
  • New Methods of Stealth
  • The Weather Is Real-Time
  • Real-Time Day Progression - Morning To Night
  • Close Quarters Combat Is Back - More Diverse
  • Weapons Being Made To Surpass Metal Gear
Gameplay Reveal: Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster
I say this is a "gameplay reveal" but I'm almost certain most gamers played Final Fantasy X/X-2 when they were first released, at E3 we got to look how the remastering of Final Fantasy X has turned out, and it's really quite impressive. I first played Final Fantasy X when it first came out and was hooked instantly, so being able to re-play it again will trophy support will be a very satisfying experience. Re-watching the learning to laugh scene in Luca in glorious HD will certainly be something.

Developer: Square-Enix
Publisher: Square-Enix
Platforms: PS3, PSVita
Genre: Role-Playing, J-RPG
Release Date: 2013 (No specific date)

Watch the gameplay here (2 parts):

Things To Remember:
  • Fully Remastered Audio
  • Fully Remastered Graphics and Visuals
  • Redefined Character Models
  • Bundle Comes With Both FFX and FFX-2
  • International Version of FFX (Was Never Released In The Us, But Was In EUR/UK)
  • International Version of FFX-2 (Only Available In Japan Before)
  • FFX-2 Comes With "Last Mission" (Only Available In Japan Before)

Gameplay Reveal: Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn
The original launch of Final Fantasy XIV wasn't anything to brag about, it's clear the game had a lot of bugs, glitches, whatever you want to call it - Square Enix showed the latest gameplay of "version 2" of Final Fantasy XIV if you will. I actually never played the original so I can't give a comparison that gives the game justice. However, after seeing the new gameplay, I am definitely buying this at launch.

The PS3 beta is currently open for applications right HERE

Developer: Square Enix Product / Development Division 3
Publisher: Square Enix
Platforms: Windows, PS3, PS4
Genre: MMORPG, RPG
Release Date: August 27th (PS3 and Windows) / 2014 (PS4)

Watch the gameplay here:

Things To Remember:
  • Game Practically Completely Re-Done
  • Stunning Visuals From A New Graphics Engine
  • Air Transport
  • Final Fantasy VI's Magitek Technology Implemented
  • Final Fantasy VII's Limit Break System Implemented 
  • Final Fantasy VII's Materia System Implemented
  • Feels Like A Final Fantasy Game, Not Just Another MMORPG
  • PS3 Gamers Can Carry On Through Their PS4
  • Player Can Summon "Primals" i.e. Ifrit
  • Unique Weapons And Familiar Weapons From The Series
  • The Story Continues From The Original FFXIV
  • Companion System - Chocobos Can Fight By Your Side
  • Bahamut Plays Very Important Role Within The Main Storyline
  • New Classes: Scholar and Summoner
Gameplay Reveal: Final Fantasy XV
Initially, when this was called Final Fantasy Versus XIII, I thought it was another spin-off from Final Fantasy XIII, but I sit here corrected - it's actually a completely new Final Fantasy in the works. I have to admit, I didn't like Final Fantasy XIII all too much, it was fun and I like the experimentation of the battle system, but to me it didn't feel like a true Final Fantasy, so I am hoping Final Fantasy XV will bring me back into the series and leave me as excited to play it as I was with the older Final Fantasy games back in the day. Decide for yourself what to think of it below with the newest trailer and gameplay from E3.

Developer: Square Enix 1st Production Department
Publisher: Square Enix
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One
Genre: RPG, Action-RPG
Release Date: TBA
Watch the gameplay here (2 parts):

Things To Remember:
  • Two Known Kingdoms - Lucis and Niflheim
  • Lucis Translates To "Light" In Latin
  • Lucis Is The Only Kingdom That Has "The Crystal"
  • All Other Kingdoms Used To Have Crystals In The Past
  • Incredible Visuals and Audio - Making The Most of the Technology
  • Characters:
  • Noctis Lucis Caelum - The Main Character/Protagonist
  • Stella Nox Fleuret - Often Battles Against Noctis
  • King Regis Lucis Caelum - Father of Noctis/King Status
  • Gladiolus Amicitia - Best Friend of Noctis/Acts Like His Brother
  • Prompto Argentum - Friend of Noctis and Bad Influence
  • Ignis Stupeo Scientia - Childhood Friend of Noctis and Personal Advisor
  • Mechanical Vehicles Can Be Used In Battle
  • Chocobos and Airships Return As Forms of Transport
  • Highly Interactive Field-System
  • Real-Time Battle System - No Loading Between Battles
  • Max Battle Party of 3
  • Battle Actions Include: "Warp", "Attack", "Linkform", "Item", and "Magic"
  • Sometimes Able To Use Enemies Own Weapons Against Them
  • No MP
  • Noctis Can Dodge Attacks And Teleport From Side To Side
  • Noctis Can Have 8 Weapons Equipped And Can Switch Seamlessly
  • Gladiolis Specialises In Heavy Weapons and Bare Hand Combat
  • Prompto Specialise In Guns and Able To Aim In 3rd-Person
  • All Playable Characters Can Use Magic
  • "Warp" Command Allows Noctis To Lock Onto Objects Or Enemies And Teleport There
  • "Linkform" Command Allows Noctis To Use All 8 Weapons At Once
  • Event Sequences - Scripted Battle Sequences
New Game Reveal: Halo 5
No official logo yet.
With the Xbox One announced, it's only fitting a new Halo is made - I am a big fan of the Halo franchise, and have been since Halo: CE and it's been pretty interesting to see the series evolve, I've enjoyed each and every Halo, and although it probably won't be as good as the first three games in the series, I still look forward to each new release. Check out the latest and only trailer-teaser for Halo 5 below.

Developer: 343 Industries
Publisher: Microsoft Studios
Platforms: Xbox One 
Genre: First-Person Shooter
Release Date: TBA 2014
Watch the trailer here:

Things To Remember:
  • Chief Is Wandering A Vast Desert - Almost Looks Post-Apocalyptic
  • No Cortana - Master Chief Is Alone
  • Chief Is Wearing A Coat/Poncho Even Though He Has Full Body Armour
  • Gigantic Forerunner Structure or Enemy Rises From The Ground

Gameplay Reveal: Castlevania Lords of Shadow 2
After finishing the first Lords of Shadow, all I've been wanting is more in terms of both gameplay and storyline, the ending to the first game was annoying - annoying in the sense I knew I'd have to wait for the next part of the story in this incredible series. Now the wait is almost over, at E3 we got to see some nice new gameplay and I can safely say I'm very excited for its release.

Developer: Mercury Steam
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: Windows, PS3, Xbox 360
Genre: Action-Adventure, 3rd-Person
Release Date: Winter 2013
Watch the gameplay here:

Things To Remember:
  • Quote At The Beginning Is From A Real Philosopher 
  • The Quote Represents Gabriel - "He Who Fights Monsters Should Be Aware, Lest He Become A Monster Himself."
  • The Belmont Clan Returns
  • Gabriel Is Now A Fully-Fledged Dracula
  • Gabriel Is Relatively Older
  • The Past Haunts Gabriel Constantly
  • Vengeance Drives Gabriel
  • Alucard and Simon Belmont Are Possibly Playable Characters
  • Symbolism of Satan Can Be Seen
  • Gigantic Fortress-Like Enemies Return
  • Will Be The Last In The Shadow Series
Debut Trailer: Kingdom Hearts III
It's been a very long time since the last proper Kingdom Hearts game, yes there's been spin-offs and what have you but finally we got to see an actual glimpse into Kingdom Hearts III - this game will have a lot to answer for in terms of the narrative of the series as a whole, and I personally can't wait to get stuck in. It was announced that the franchise will be making it's way onto the Xbox One as well as the PlayStation 4. 

Developer: Square Enix First Production Department
Publisher: Square Enix
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One
Genre: RPG, Action-RPG
Release Date: TBA
Watch the trailer here:

Things To Remember:
  • Sora Returns As Main Character/Protagonist
  • Highly Possible Other Characters Return
  • Story Continues From Dream Drop Distance
  • Final Game In The Main Series
  • NPCs Can Join In To Help You In Battle
  • Improved Enemy AI
  • Still Very Early In Development (Don't expect a release date any time soon...)
New Game Reveal: Super Mario 3D World

I'll be honest, I still haven't got a 3DS or a Wii U but I have played Super Mario 3D Land and New Super Mario Bros. U and they've been extremely fun. The latest in the Mario series doesn't seem to disappoint, and I find myself wondering if now is the time to buy a Wii U.

Developer: Nintendo EAD Tokyo
Publisher: Nintendo
Platforms: Wii U
Genre: Platformer, 3D
Release Date: December 2013
Watch the gameplay here:

Things To Remember:
  • 4 Player Co-Op 
  • Playable Characters: Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Toad
  • Each Character Has Unique Traits:
  • Mario - Average Speed/High-Jump
  • Luigi - High-Jump/Falls Slow
  • Peach - Jump and Float
  • Toad - Fastest Speed
  • Sequel To Super Mario 3D Land (3DS)
  • Free-Roaming Gameplay
  • Cat Suit Introduced - Allows Player To Climb Walls, Run Faster, And Perform Unique Attacks
  • Wii U GamePad Allows Player To Reveal Hidden Objects
  • Off-TV Play Also Available
Gameplay Reveal: Sonic: Lost World
The Sonic franchise has had its fair share of ups and downs, with the fantastic earlier games on the MegaDrive and Master System to the not so great games (Shadow The Hedgehog, Sonic The Hedgehog 2006) - then we were given the likes of Sonic 4: Episode 1 and 2 and Sonic Generations. which in my opinion brought the series back to its roots and allowed fans of the original games fall in love with Sonic all over again. It looks like the series is only getting better and better now, with the announcement of Sonic: Lost World, the future for the franchise is looking very bright. I'll be looking at the Wii U gameplay, not the 3DS.

Developer: Sonic Team (Wii U) / Dimps (3DS)
Publisher: Sega / Nintendo (Europe)
Platforms: Wii U, 3DS
Genre: Platformer
Release Date: Late 2013
Watch the gameplay here:

Things To Remember:
  • Sonic and Eggman Work Together As A Team
  • The Main Enemy Are The "Deadly Six"
  • Wisp Ability Returns From Sonic Colours
  • Side-Scrolling Levels
  • Linear Levels
  • Able To Control Sonic With The Wii Remote and Nunchuck
  • Fully 3D Gameplay
  • Supports Off-TV Play
  • Local and Online Multiplayer
  • 3DS Version Isn't A Port - Original Game
  • Collecting Red Coins Unlocks Additional/Bonus Content
  • Finding Gold Cannons Unlock Alternative Paths
  • Sonic's Speed Depends On How Much The Directional Button Is Pressed
  • Able To Run Up Walls / Run On Side of Walls

Well, that's it from me - it's been an incredible E3 this year, with some really incredible games finally being shown off, new games announced, and so fourth. There were many other games at E3, but like I mentioned at the start of this post, the games you see above are the games I'm most excited about, and I think a lot of gamers will be too. Feel free to comment below and share your thoughts and opinions. Feature1`

Sunday, 6 November 2011

FEATURE: HD Game Collections - Genuine Fan Gifts or Easy Money?

With HD gaming making its mark on the map in recent years, game companies are producing bundles of older games like there's no tomorrow.

Could Sony be working on God of War 4 instead
of spending their time remastering old games?
Now, I know the demand for past-favourites remastered in high definition is incredibly large, especially with the HD-obsessed world we currently live in - everything must be HD or 3D...or both. What is wrong with simply playing the original versions of these games like they were originally intended?
Have the "new generation" of gamers grew up with too much exposure to current-gen games; that they don't want to accept that some games were in regular resolution at one point? Either way, I do believe there are pros and cons in HD collections but I can also see why companies like Sony are so eager to put out as many possible.


The addition of Peace Walker is a nice extra in this collection,
 but how well will a PSP game convert to HD?
Don't get me wrong, the idea of playing classics such as God of War (PS2) and Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty (PS2) is a very exciting thought and I'm sure it will be as pleasurable a gaming experience as it was the first time I played these particular games, it will also be interesting and enjoyable to collect the trophies in these games because obviously the PS2 didn't have virtual e-penis boosting trophies - seriously though, I consider trophies in these HD collections to be a major pro, it is genuinely fun to collect trophies and even more so in games we all loved and played years ago. Now I've babbled on about trophy collecting, here's my two cents on why I think a lot of games are being remastered in HD - all a company needs to do is edit the resolution of the original content and convert that into a higher resolution (there is probably much more work but still at a cheap cost), which really can't be that expensive, and then they can simply put these collections on shelves at almost-full price, resulting in the company gaining max profits for little effort at all. It's a genius idea from a business perspective but it does make me question if companies are simply doing these HD collections for profit or because they genuienly want the fans to experience classic games again in fantastic HD resolution.


Will gamers shell out the cash for essentially a game(s) they've already played and beaten years ago or pass on the HD hype and save money for an actual original title? Are these HD collections a good thing for the people who never played the originals and aren't willing to buy the original consoles? Evidently, it's all down to your own opinion, so comment below on your take on this. Feature1