Journey Review

Journey

Journey is a game I've been meaning to review for some time now, and I think the name speaks for itself. Journey is a 3-d platformer with an emphasis on exploration and investigation as you traverse the sands and ancient civilization. There was some problems with development, heads butted, extensions on deadlines had to be made, as well as working with a limited budget and overall manpower. I've read Journey originally started out with just seven dedicated and driven developers working on it. I'll cut to the chase, this game is excellent, and if you own a PS3, you'll want to buy this game. But now, for the review. Let's get to it.

Journey Trailer Youtube vid by: Machinima Trailer

Read more »

Journey Review

BioShock Infinite Review

BioShock Infinite

After a 10-15 hour campaign, a mesmerizing introduction, some scorching gameplay from start to finish, and an ending that may tickle your brain for a couple days to come - perhaps even giving some a headache as they go out of their way to truly make heads or tails of it - BioShock Infinite proved to be a breathtaking game to say the very least. But that's not to say it's the "perfect game" or the best of its generation. Granted, BioShock Infinite is indeed spectacular both in size, scope, story, and gameplay. But if you're looking for a review with that magic 10 out of 10, be forewarned  I am among the few who believe this game falls a little short of the considerable hype. For those already interested, as always, here is a link to Amazon so you can check out the prices. And if what I said bothers you (I'm expecting some backlash for this), hear me out. BioShock Infinite is a brilliant game. Is it perfect? A TEN out of TEN? Sadly, no. And believe me, I had a feeling it would be. So before you come at me with your pitchforks and torches, hear me out.

BioShock Infinite Trailer: Youtube by Machinima

 

Read more »

BioShock Infinite Review

SimCity Bugging Me Out!

SimCity

Yes, we've all been waiting for SimCity, haven't we? And of course, most of us bought into the hype and believed the newest SimCity would be the best to date. And after such a disastrous launch, many were left scratching their heads at a loss for words. Well, if that was you, I suppose you can find some solace in the fact you were one of many, thousands, in fact. Is SimCity really worth it, is it really? Here's my take. I wanted to wait a while and try to review the game AS IT IS at this very moment. As always, if you're thinking about it, here's a link to Amazon. But for the rest of you, my fellow mayors, let's talk some SimCity.

SimCity Trailer: Youtube vid by GameNewsOfficial

Read more »

SimCity Bugging Me Out!

Tomb Raider Review

Tomb Raider

Wow, has 3-d platforming come  a long way. Just looking back at the first few Tomb Raider games is enough to almost make you laugh. Get ready for an intense game, my friends. Many have waited at the edge of their seats for this game, and despite the controversies ie Laura being "handled" by the bad guy, etc, this is a game most will enjoy. Tomb Raider is a game I've been looking forward to. If you're thinking of buying the game, here's a link to Amazon. Most fans of Ms. Croft will want to. For the rest of you, perhaps this review will convince you to try the game for yourselves and make your own decision.

Tomb Raider Trailer Youtube by: IGN

Tomb Raider Platforming

The newest Tomb Raider nails heart-stopping, nail-biting leaps and Hail Mary's and crashes, and climbs, and snatching, and, yeah, I can go on for a while. Though not quite the badass double pistol shooting Laura most of us know and love, this younger albeit more inexperienced Ms. Croft gets the job done; and she looks exceptional while doing it. Her movements are so natural and fluent, even making small adjustments as she catches ledges and climbs, you as the player feel the experience all the more. You almost feel her exertions and fatigue. I'll put it to you another way, not only is her every movement believable, but I'm sure I'm not the only one sitting on my couch thinking I'm outta shape compared to this unassuming archaeologist.

Read more »

Tomb Raider Review

Pokemon Black 2 White 2 a Genuine Sequel?

Pokemon Black 2 and White 2

Pokemon Black 2 and White 2. Yup, I had my doubts. After so many Pokemon games, I really started to feel like most were simple copy and paste games with a few added tweaks here and there to make it seem like a stand alone game. And while not every Pokemon game was like this, I still felt that far too many were. When I first read about Pokemon Black 2 and White 2 I thought, "So, yet another Pokemon game that's more or less the same thing. Figures." But my curiosity peaked when I heard from fellow gamers that they were surprised with what the games have to offer and the sheer amount of new content. For those who know you would like the game already, here are some links to Amazon and Grainger Games. In this review, I'll cover a few reasons why even a worn out Pokemon fan like me has reason to see the franchise in a different way; rejuvenated,  if you will. And there's almost nothing better than welcoming back a dear friend you've known almost your whole life. In this case, perhaps we needed the time apart, because the changes are, for the most part, a much needed, refreshing experience.

Pokemon Black 2 White 2 Trailer Youtube vid by AttemptedHeadshotDS

Read more »

Pokemon Black 2 White 2 a Genuine Sequel?

The Absolutely Great Square Pack

The absolutely great square pack has the number one spot on Amazon's best selling video games list. Here's the deal they're offering: 7 games plus a DLC for $9.99, the original list price being $164.68 - about a 94% savings as you save around $154 bucks. Now, normally I don't post about a deal as my reviews are about the games themselves, but this one seems like a steal. And the reason I write these reviews is to help you determine which games you may want and save you some money. Well, I'd be doing you a disservice by not mentioning any deals I come across that are actually worth it. There's a lot of people reading this blog and I thought I should give you all a heads up just in case you aren't aware. This is one of those weekly deals Amazon promotes. So it should end around October 20th.

Read more »

The Absolutely Great Square Pack

Dishonored a Refreshing Take on Assassination

Dishonored
JBLivin

Dishonored

Gamers, in Dishonored you assume the role of Corvo Attano, a protector of the Empress in the Victorian style meets industrial revolution city of Dunwall, a rotting, grimy city with a decimated population due to a plague reminiscent of the Black Plague that swept Europe during the medieval ages. In this world, Whale oil is the life force of the city that powers the city streets and lines the pockets of the nobility with cash. With a city plagued with disease it doesn't help the guys running everything are some of the most corrupt individuals to ever appear in a video game. This is a world of scheming, backstabbing, political maneuvering, and power struggles between those with the right heritage and all the poor sobs caught in the middle as they die in the streets. Rats gotta eat too, ya know. As the protector of the Empress, you fail to prevent her assassination and are wrongly accused of the crime. Hence, Dishonored. Corvo doesn't take kindly to being the pawn in a political game. And neither should you. So help a guy out, take the reins, avenge the Empress, save the heir, and reclaim your honor. Should be no problem. For those who already know you want the game, check it out on Amazon For the rest of you who aren't sure yet, read the review and decide for yourselves.

Read more »

Dishonored a Refreshing Take on Assassination

Resident Evil 6 Disappointment

The wait is over and fans of the Resident Evil games are flocking to the stores and shopping online to get their hands on Resident Evil 6. The towering behemoth franchise has raised some eyebrows over recent years with the new directions and twists integrated and emphasized with the more recent games. Many have claimed the new approach of the series is sapping away the vim of what made the older games household names of gamers around the world. Many wondered if Resident Evil 6 would continue the string of summer blockbuster movies, I mean, games and brush aside elements of fear and suspense that were groundbreaking achievements of games past. In my mind, it's actually the die-hards of the games that may want to steer clear, and those who are new or who have never played that may consider picking this one up. Why do I say that? For many who placed their hopes into the new release, I'm sorry to say, you're in for some disappointment, this is a very different Resident Evil. On the other side of that coin, those of you who get your kicks from intense action and instant thrills of the exploding nature, you're in for a treat. Because Resident Evil 6 may be closer to an action movie with cool special effects and infected monstrosities, than it is to a survival horror-story video game.

Resident Evil 6 Trailer Youtube vid by CapcomUnityVideos

Read more »

Resident Evil 6 Disappointment

Dead or Alive 5 Rock Paper Scissors

Dead or Alive 

The Dead or Alive series is known for its exceptional gameplay and all kinds of eye candy for the guys to look at. The characters, whether they be the brutal ninja of leather, Ryu Hayabusa, or the unrealistically large bust of Hitomi, the aspiring karate master, are more than happy to destroy each other with a plethora of strikes, throws, and holds all in destructible and exploding environments that are as fun to watch as they are to fight in. For the fans of the previous games, you'll want to buy this one. For the rest of you who may be on the fence or simply curious as to what the game is like, read on and find out.

Dead or Alive 5 Gameplay Trailer Youtube vid by CommuityGame

Read more »

Dead or Alive 5 Rock Paper Scissors

Left 4 Dead 2: Cold Stream

Community Created Cold Stream DLC

I know it's been out for a while, but it's time for my review of the community-created Left 4 Dead 2 DLC: Cold Stream. Cold Stream features a new, community-driven and created campaign. And while some have written off the campaign as amateurs at work, I'd argue it's a remarkable first attempt and will only get better over time. Because you just know Valve will continue this practice for their die-hard fans. The community loved the project and despite a few snarky nay-sayers, the campaign came together pretty well in my books. So here are some things I agree with and disagree with in response to some of the reviews out there.

Cold Stream Gameplay Youtube vid by deluxe345

Read more »

Left 4 Dead 2: Cold Stream

Mass Effect 3 Leviathan DLC

Mass Effect 3 Leviathan DLC

Mass Effect 3 has stirred unprecedented videogame controversy over its ending, as I'm sure most of you gamers out there know. With the Mass Effect Extended Cut DLC, Bioware provided a bit more closure for their loyal fanbase. And now, with the Mass Effect 3 Leviathan DLC, players have the opportunity to sink their teeth into even more revelations as well as learning a bit more about the background of the Mass Effect universe. But does Leviathan hit the mark and deliver an engaging experience for you to immerse yourself in? Or does the DLC fall short? People seem split. Here's my take. Read on and see what you think.

Read more »

Mass Effect 3 Leviathan DLC

Borderlands 2: Seven Reasons to Buy It

Borderlands 2

7 Reasons to Buy Borderlands 2

1. Loot, Loot, and more Loot. Kill monsters, blow everything up, run things over, and otherwise bring about as much carnage and mayhem as humanly (or robotically) possible. Kill everything in sight that so much as looks at you funny. "You talking to me?" and since there's no one else there, curb stomp em with your gun. Afterwards, scavenge the battlefield and search for better gun, grenades, and other weapons that will make you even more unstoppable.

2. Combat Customization. Borderlands 2 offers far more customization to the abilities of the story's heroes. Skills and abilities branch off, making you choose which paths you'd like to follow to build your character. And while each individual class will be more or less the same at its core, the fun little tweaks and optimization proves to be far more dynamic. You and your bud may both be playing as an assassin, but that doesn't mean you'll be taking down those pesky Pandora critters in the same way. My pal sniped and scored those head shots. I got in close and sliced and diced.

3. Tag in with up to three friends online and take the battle to Jack and his minions. Enemies get tougher with more players. But never fear, you and your rag tag entourage of Vault Hunters can use your unique abilities to command the field, back each other up, and sync attacks for devastating effects. Gunzerker can do what he does best, become Hulk with bazookas, a Commando can throw in a turret and draw enemy fire, your assassin can cloak  close in, and start slashing away, and your Siren can hold punks in place and they fry em up for lunch.

Read more »

Borderlands 2: Seven Reasons to Buy It

Dragon's Dogma SHUT UP YOU STUPID PAWN!

Dragon's Dogma

Dragon's Dogma was a game I was looking forward to and it's a shame I haven't had the opportunity to write up a review until now. I've read some reviews and heard what my friends had to say on the game. Some was good. Most . . . not so great. Bummer. But, I had to find out for myself. As I've said before, I have made the mistake of writing off a game before I even played it, only to discover the game is phenomenal. After getting my hands on it, I can say this. Dragon's Dogma is a game for the hardcore RPG enthusiast. The rest of you may want to steer clear. And here's why.

Read more »

Dragon's Dogma SHUT UP YOU STUPID PAWN!

Kingdom Hearts Dream Drop Distance Review

Kingdom Hearts Dream Drop Distance

When Kingdom Hearts first came out, I was one of many who thought the bizarre mix of the cute and cuddly Disney characters and the more mature Final Fantasy themes would fall flat. It just didn't seem like a likely pairing that would succeed. I even wondered exactly what audience was the game marketing towards. But like so many others who wrote off Kingdom Hearts without even playing it, I found that once I gave the game a chance, it became one of my favorite games. This year the Kingdom Hearts series celebrated it's 10th anniversary by launching the newest game: Kingdom Hearts 3d: Dream Drop Distance. The Kingdom Hearts series has received all kinds of praise over the years and what many are wondering is: Is Dream Drop Distance another hit? My answer is a YES for those who love Kingdom Hearts, and I mean love it as in it's in their top 10 video game list. The rest of you will probably feel the way I do about that game, impressed with what the new features do right, and incredibly disappointed with what it does wrong.

Read more »

Kingdom Hearts Dream Drop Distance Review

What I'd like to see in Total War Rome 2

Total War Rome 2

The Creative Assembly announced not so long ago that the next game in the Total War Series will be Total War Rome 2. I can't tell you how excited I am for this game. Rome Total War happens to be my personal favorite of the Total War games. And a sequel to Rome Total War has been the most asked for game by fans. For a game that's not exactly going to hit the market any time soon, what the Creative Assembly has chosen to divulge about the game is actually a pretty big chunk of information, all things considered. Total War Rome 2 will be filled with a plethora of new features and improvements over all the games preceding it. I for one am optimistic the developers can deliver on their many promises. Here are just a few things I'd like to see, especially with the Roman faction.

Read more »

What I'd like to see in Total War Rome 2

Tekken Tag Tournament 2 Review

Tekken Tag Tournament 2

Tekken Tag Tournament 2 is finally here and if you're like me, the wait was just something you had to deal with. With the release of Tekken Tag Tournament 2 players the world over now have access to more than a few game modes for the price of sixty dollars. For those looking for an enticing story filled with engaging plot elements, development, twists and turns, and a satisfying conclusion, you're out of luck. Fortunately, as most of you may know, Tekken Tag Tournament 2 is first and foremost about the gameplay with very little emphasis on the story as this is a game that is meant to be exactly what people really play it for, pummeling people with your fists online. For the casual gamer, you might want to steer clear. Tekken has an earned reputation of being one of the harder fighting games to master in the genre, and Tekken Tag Tournament 2 is perhaps the most difficult of all. But for those looking for a challenge, or you simply rock the fighting games in all shapes and forms,this is why you should get your hands on Tekken Tag Tournament 2

Read more »

Tekken Tag Tournament 2 Review

Asura's Wrath Kamehameha!

Asura's Wrath

If you've read reviews about Asura's Wrath and found the brief synopsis and description of the game to be somewhat lacking, that's because it's kind of hard to say exactly where this game falls into place with the gaming industry. Borrowing heavily from Western-style button mashing mixed and mashed with Japanese-style narration, story, and themes, with a tremendous amount of quick-time events, some Eastern mythology and a unique fusion of Eastern and Western music, and you may not know whether or not you missed an important turn somewhere along the way to your destination. For those knowing you'd like to get your hands on this game, you can click here and check it out on Amazon. But for the rest of you, I'll give you a rundown of what you can expect but be forewarned, a game like this seems to be one of those games people either love or absolutely hate.

Read more »

Asura's Wrath Kamehameha!

Top 10 NHL 13 Features to be Excited About

NHL 13

NHL 13 is almost here. As one of the most anticipates EA SPORTS games, I thought I'd provide a quick rundown of some new features and a couple that make a return. Now, there seems to be a war on with NFL and NHL fans over these games. Some are the diehards who buy every Madden NFL game that comes out year after year, while others' loyalties lie with NHL and the games that come out each year. Many have spoken out about what they feel are the shortcoming of the new Madden NFL 13. Many are even crying foul over the loss of some fan favorite game features (In no particular order of importance) . Not surprisingly, many are worried that NHL 13 might not live up to the hype just like NFL 13.  It sounds like this game holds promise and potential. But it wouldn't be the first time an EA SPORTS game failed to deliver on its promises. We'll have to wait and see. Fingers crossed folks.

Read more »

Top 10 NHL 13 Features to be Excited About

Halo Reach Pyrrhic Victory

Halo Reach

Let's talk about Halo Reach. We all know Halo 4 is on its way in November. Lately I've been dusting off some old video games. And while Halo Reach isn't exactly one of the older games on the 360, it's certainly been a while since I last played. It was like welcoming an old friend. For those who don't own a copy of Halo Reach but you've been considering it, it's time you did. Halo Reach is worth every penny of its purchase price and while it may not be the perfect shooter, there is so much content and fun to be had I can personally guarantee the vast majority of those who really give the game a chance will enjoy it.

Read more »

Halo Reach Pyrrhic Victory

LA Noire You Better Start Talking

LA Noire JBLivin

LA Noire

Detective gamermonkey: video game investigator. You're probably wondering why I brought you here. I'll level with you, kiddo. Word around town is you haven't gone out and bought a certain game. A certain game you should own, see? You wouldn't happen to know what game I'm talking about, would you? LA Noire? No? Shut your mouth! I know you know that I know you haven't bought this game yet! Your story is full of holes and I'm gonna beat your @ss if you don't start talking! So what's it gonna be? Come clean and I'll put in a good word with the DA about extenuating circumstances.

Read more »

LA Noire You Better Start Talking