Obvious Opinion: Nintendo had the worst E3

Ok, before you read this their are two things that I should be honest about. I don't own a Wii or Nintendo 3DS (own a Nintendo DS and a Gamecube though), so there may be some Sony + Microsft fanboy bias. Now that you know the truth, I just want to give you my own perspective on this years E3. I am a core gamer at heart. Nintendo's E3 last year was the best one, but this year I believe that Nintendo's wasn't as good compared to the others.

Microsoft: Look, some of the Kinect stuff was bad but it's somewhat starting to grow on me with its intiutive controls, and while I was hoping that Crytek wouldn't make an exclusive Xbox game for Kinect, they did and Kinect seems more appealing now. One thing I liked about Microsoft's E3 was that they are trying to turn the Xbox into an overal entertainment system where you can access live TV, youtube, and netflix. My main complaint was that there weren't enough exclusives that really caught my eye. The only ones I were really interested in was Gears 3 and Forza 4. Both Halo reveals were kinda cool, and before you say "oh Microsoft had no ideas so they are recycling Halo" then I will immediately point you to Nintendo.

Sony: This was the best press conference in my opionion. I'll identify the main problem, all that 3D crap is still there. Sony still doesn't understand that even with a 600 dollar TV, 3D is STILL NOT ACCESSIBLE. Another thing I have come to realize was that from my perspective, playstation move sucks if your a core gamer. Ok now that we have that out of the way, what I loved about the Sony press conference was all of the exclusive games! Infamous 2 recently came out (and I love it), but also Resitance 3, Uncharted 3, Sly Cooper. Surpisingly they didn't mention Twisted Metal, but Sony is going to have another great year exclusive wise. The playstation Vita looks awesome, was well priced at $250 dollars without AT&T's 3G support . Plus there are a good amount of games being developed for the Vita. Good stuff on both fronts, now onto my least favorite.

Nintendo: The Zelda stuff went on for waaaay to long, I am not a hardcore Zelda fan so maybe I just don't "get it". Moving on the the 3DS, I thought that even though most of the games were reboots or in some actual cases, sequels, however after seeing playstation's new portable Vita being $250 dollars like the 3DS, and the Vita just looks better in general. I have futzed around with 3DS's in the past, and while I may have not found that 3D "sweet spot" on the adjuster, I really don't see what the big deal of 3D is. Maybe time will tell

Lastly and most importantly is my outlook of the Wii U: I am extremely paranoid about it. Yes its backward compatible with previous Wii controllers and games, and that is great (especially if I owned a Wii). But based on what I have heard so far, the Wii U's processing power scales of the the 360 and the PS3. Some people may initially think that that's great, but lets propose a hypothetical situation. Microsoft and Sony announce their new console in 2013, and they will be available in stores by 2014. What happens to the Wii U, there are two (or three) possibilities. Either it ends up being a success like the Wii and it appeals to casual gamers or it ends up like the Dreamcast and it will be disregarded when the next real "generation" of consoles arrives. I think it will be a combination of the 2 becuase this is Nintendo after all and they will make money of this, but money aside, I just don't see what the big deal is with the Wii U or the controller. Like Move and Kinect, Wii's contrroller could also be considered "gimicky". Play on the screen if someone else is using the TV? I mean I could just do something else like watch TV with them or go on the internet posting stupid rants...it's applications in some of the games are cool, but I am just not feeling it yet. Maybe I am stupid, but it actually took me a while to figure out that the Wii U was a new console and not an addon. Regardless I don't think the Wii U has a bright future, and as for the 3DS, I think it deserves to get a price drop but that likely won't happen in a while. I think that I may buy Sony's handheld over Nintendo's depending on how each one turns out within a year or so.

....myah!

Pre-E3 Trailer Updates

Within four days, the biggest event of the video game industry, the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3), is kicking off on June 6th. Many websites such as IGN, Gametrailers, Gamespot, Machinima, and others are going to be streaming footage of press conferences right to your computer screens, so make sure to check those out to watch the Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo press conferences as well as new video game trailers. Some video games have already revealed their E3 trailers, but also on June 7th Infamous 2 will be hitting store shelves while Duke Nukem Forever arrives on June 14. Check back for more E3 coverage.

Duke Nukem Forever Launch Trailer - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sIwQyaFsDPs

Saint's Row: The Third E3 Trailer - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlmSzZKeExY&feature=relmfu

Infamous 2 "The Beast is Coming" Trailer - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9i6YNxqjwWU

Batman: Arkham City Catwoman Trailer - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVYTlPgKsAI

Witcher 2 for Xbox 360?

The Witcher 2 just came out last week on Tuesday at the same day as L.A. Noire. While readers may have been paying more attention to LA Noire, the Witcher 2 is also an amazing game that should not go unnoticed. The new RPG has been praised by multiple critics and is currently scoring a 89 on metacritic, and word on the internet is that the Witcher 2 may not be a PC exclusive, but will eventually arrive on the Xbox 360. Check out this article.

http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/117/1170652p1.html

Update: Gametrailers has an exclusive Xbox 360 announcement trailer!
Link: http://www.gametrailers.com/video/e3-2011-the-witcher/714516

Duke Nukem Forever: Finished

Don't give in to the hype, I repeat, do NOT give in to the hype. Even though this game has been in development hell for nearly 15 years, the reality is that this game will not be that great. If you have seen any gameplay of it then you will likely know what I mean. That being said, I know that Duke Nukem forever is going to be a solid game that it will likely be an extremely funny and cleverly written. But I am just going to repeat to all of you that you should NOT give in to the hype that has been riding behind this game based on that cult following. Based on what I have seen, I would be very surprised if this game got above a 8.5 on Metacritic. Alright, you have read about my negativity, now check out this videos and be enlightened about the "Chuck Norris" of the video game world.

Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzmF45lfxwM
Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ciAj7V6jbY4

Modern Warfare 3: First Gameplay Trailer

Coming out on the 8th of November this year, Modern Warfare 3 is likely going to achieve massive sales, but will they reach the level of Call of Duty: Black Ops? That may seem like a stupid question, but hear me out. Call of Duty Black Ops was one of the biggest entertainment launches in history following Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, but it's possible that EA's Battlefield 3 could potentially decrease Modern Warfare 3's sales given to it also being a shooter that takes place in a modern setting.

That being said, I am sure Bobby Kotick and the people at Activision will be more than excited to hear about all of the money flowing in, and I will most likely be one of those people that will donate to the cause. Flame wars aside, this trailer shows that Modern Warfare 3 will have gameplay taking place in America, England, France, and Germany. Check it out and be excited!

http://www.gamespot.com/xbox360/action/callofdutymodernwarfare3/video/6315276?tag=topslot;img;1

Dead Island Gameplay

Dead Island is an open world action adventure game that is being developed by Techland and published by Deep Silver. It's currently slated to come out on September 30, 2011 on Xbox 360, PS3, and PC. The game puts an emphasis on RPG elements and melee combat.

I am personally excited for this game because it carves out a form of gameplay that wasn't seen in game's like Left 4 Dead. While the Left 4 Dead series was a very fun series of games, it is very different from the gameplay. Left 4 Dead played more like an action movie where you are provided with plenty of ammunition and ammo, and you followed a specific path to get to the "safe zone" or the extraction point. Typically, the ending of an "act", which was a series of about five levels, involved you holding out before the chopper arrives. In Dead Island, you will barely find that many guns or ammo, you can typically only take on a few zombies whereas in Left 4 Dead you could easily mow them down with an assault or hacking and slashing with a machete. For the lack of a better word, this game has a more "serious" approach on the zombie apocalypse, and I think that's what will distinguish it from a game like Left 4 Dead.

In this gameplay preview, Deep Silver's Brand Manager, Vincent Kummer, narrates a section of gameplay footage.

http://www.gametrailers.com/video/to-kill-dead-island/714103

Gametrailers Bonus Round: E3 2011 Preview

As some of you may know, E3 is very close and it officially kicks off at June 7th in the Los Angeles Convention Center. As of what we currently know, Nintendo is about to announce a new console (currently known as Project Cafe), Sony is going to talk more about their portable console, the NGP, and we don't know what exactly Microsoft is up to. Hopefully for Microsoft, they announce new software for their peripheral Kinect as well as more first party video game titles. In this episode of the Bonus Round, Geoff Keighley, Michael Pachter, Jeff Gerstmann, Shane Satterfield discuss Sony, Nintendo, and Microsoft and their e3 agenda's, as well as what they need to do to stand out from their competition.

http://www.gametrailers.com/episode/bonusround/504?ch=1

It has been a long time

I apologize, it has been a long time that I have updated this blog since I have been busy because I had a lot of tests and papers and I kind of left this blog collecting dust after my Infamous 2 coverage. But enough apologies, time to get this blog back up and running!

Besides Finals and not working on my blog, I have got 3 games from April to right now. M0rtal Kombat, Portal 2, and L.A. Noire, and these are some of my favorite games that have come out this year. Portal 2 lives up to it's predecessor, Mortal Kombat is an amazing reboot that is full of content and violence, and L.A. Noire, the noir inspired detective thriller, is a very fresh breathe of fresh air because of how differently it plays from other games.

It's slightly less than two months until Infamous 2 comes out, but at least finally we will have a slew of new games to look forward in the summer. Infamous 2 is the game I am most excited and it's personally my favorite PS3 exclusive. The first link gives gameplay of the cool new enemies you will be fighting in Infamous 2. Last time, Infamous 2 has announced that it would let players build their own missions and share them with other players, and the last player shows the player cool examples of custom missions they could make and play.

http://www.gametrailers.com/video/in-game-missions-infamous-2/712762
http://www.gametrailers.com/video/user-generated-levels-infamous-2/712764

Gears of War 3: Dedicated Execution Developer Diary

Gears of War multiplayer was something I disliked mostly because of a lack of dedicated servers, host advantage, and overall game lag. This is something I hope they solve in Gears of War 3. After numerous delays, Epic has decided to host a private beta that is available to those who have bought Epic Edition of Bulletstorm or those who preorder Gears of War 3. The beta testers should help Epic trim the game's multiplayer and make it ready to ship. I am optimistic about Gears 3 because of all of the extra time they are having, and I believe you should to if you disliked the multiplayer in the previous Gears of Wars games. And if you loved the multiplayer, then I bet the hype is just killing you right now and you likely already saw this amazing trailer.

http://www.gametrailers.com/video/dedicated-execution-gears-of-war/712714

Street Fighter X Tekken: Trailer and Current Roster

One important thing to keep in mind: Street Fighter X Tekken is being created solely by Capcom, with no input from Namco. The counterpart game, Tekken X Capcom, is being made by Namco, with no input from Capcom.

Here is the roster of currently known characters in the series, and this link also contains the latest trailer showing a showdown between each fighting series's icons.

http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/116/1161109p1.html

Infamous 2: Quest for Power Trailer

In other news, Infamous 2 is also shaping up to be quite an amazing game where the protagonist, Cole, starts off with the powers he gained in the first game. As the game progresses, he proceeds to enhance his already existing electrical powers, but he gains control of some new types of powers as well. Infamous 2 is scheduled to launch on PS3 June 7th.

http://www.gametrailers.com/video/quest-for-infamous-2/712635

Duke Nukem: The Beginning

As I have stated before, I never played Duke Nukem before, but there is still something to be excited over when you hear about the games of where you play a badass hero that spouts ridiculous and epic one liners. Because Duke Nukem was delayed to June 6, you can almost smirk because the game was delayed yet again after being announced 13 years ago. One can assume that these delays will help the game accumulate more hype, and this video isn't helping matters. Learn about the origins of the man who is the Chuck Norris of video games.

http://www.gametrailers.com/video/plucked-from-duke-nukem/712628

Are you buying Duke Nukem Forever? I for one, plan on picking this game up not because I know the game will be particularly good, but because I want to own a monument in gaming history. 13 years of development and ridiculous hype is something worth owning for $60, perhaps I will get the ridiculous special edition with the bust of Duke.

LA Noire Trailer "Slip of the Tongue"

Another showcase of how L.A. Noire is shaping up to be a fine game indeed.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eyKSxlpCtQQ&feature=feedu

Gametrailers Bonus Round: Straight from the Top

Gametrailers description: "Ubisoft's Jade Raymond, Epic Games' Mike Capps and Sony Santa Monica's John Hight join us to lay down the details from the top, exploring the past, present and future of their triple-a franchises. Will the core games of the future have motion control support? What about a game's DLC – is it predetermined before the game even ships? Plus, what is the future of the boxed product - are subscriptions and episodic content the future?"

http://www.gametrailers.com/episode/bonusround/502?

Battlefield 3 Faultline Part 3

The final piece of Battlefield 3's series of gameplay clips.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DsHIHxYXeLs

Mass Effect 2 "Arrival" DLC out now.

The final piece of Mass Effect 2 DLC has finally launched, setting out to bridge the stories of Mass Effect 2 and 3. Based on what I have read on the forums, the DLC has been recieved fairly well. Though a lot of people say "Arrival" isn't as good as "The Lair of the Shadowbroker". Regardless, Mass Effect fans should be pleased nonetheless to start downloading.

Launch Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPPXpikoWAo

Duke Nukem Forever: Delayed to June 14

The current reason for it being delayed is because of multiplayer bugs, and Gearbox Studios believed that they could have squashed these bugs before the next release date. They pushed it back an extra month to be 100% sure they've fixed most of the bugs.

Even though people are very impaitent nowadays, it's much better for a game to delayed later and and high quality rather than come out to early as a buggy mess. Magika would be a good example of that. Anyway, here is a fun video from Gearbox's Randy Pitchford talking about the game's delay. Enjoy :D

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ONLb0MOkuA8&feature=feedu

Magic 2012 Announced

Duels of the Planeswalkers was one of my favorite Xbox Live Arcade games that was based off the very popular card game by Wizards of the Coast, Magic the Gathering. My love for Duels of the Planeswalkers over other arcade titles would appear odd considering that there are far better Xbox Live Arcade titles like Shadow Complex and Limbo. However, I have actually never played Magic the Gathering before, and it served as an introduction into a very addicting card game. What's funny is that I swore I would never actually play the actual card game because of how much money I would have to devote, but in less than two years after the game's release,I ended up purchasing Magic cards, so I could play free for all matches until 2 o' clock in the morning. Good times.

Sad I know, but Duels of the Planeswalkers was a great game in its own right. Playing MTG in real life may not be the most balanced because either you or your opponent will have a deck that's meant to exploit some of the game's mechanics (unlimited Myr tokens anyone?), but that's not so in Duels of the Planeswalkers. All of the decks are fairly balanced against each other, and the chance to unlock cards to add to your deck made it all the more addicting. Check out the launch trailer and the details on the new archenemy mode.

Launch: http://www.ign.com/videos/2011/03/10/magic-duels-of-the-planeswalkers-2012-announcement-trailer

Archenemy: http://www.ign.com/videos/2011/03/18/magic-the-gathering-duels-2012-dev-walkthrough

Duex Ex Human Revolution - Gameplay Walkthrough

http://www.gamespot.com/pc/action/deusex3/video/6304183?tag=topslot%3Bimg%3B4

Don't get me wrong, this game has potential, but after watching the video, I wasn't really that impressed. This video showcases the multiple ways in which you could approach a game level, but is that really a big deal? Other first person games like Bioshock, Elder Oblivion, Stalker, Operation Flashpoint, and Splinter Cell Conviction provide you the option to approach a level guns blazing or with a more subtle approach. Dues Ex isn't really doing anything special based on this video, but I hope the game does well nonetheless. That and the animations weren't the most fluid I have ever seen and the game seems to be showing its age after being delayed numerous times. Come on Eidos Montreal, prove to me that this game is a day one purchase!

Mass Effect 2's "Arrival" DLC dated

As a bridge between the events of Mass Effect 2 and Mass Effect 3 (which is currently slated to arrive this holiday 2011), a new piece of downloadable content is arriving on Xbox 360, PC, and Playstation Network for $7 or 560 microsoft points if you are an Xbox 360 owner.

In "Arrival", Commander Shepard is sent to the edge of the galaxy to rescue an undercover operative who may have vital information about the impending invasion of an advanced race of machines known as the Reapers. The DLC will feature the returning character, Admiral Hackett, who is voiced by legendary science-fiction actor Lance Henriksen (Alien, Terminator).

“All year, we have been extremely honored and humbled by the reception we have received for Mass Effect 2 from players around the world, including our post release DLC”, said Casey Hudson, Executive Producer, Mass Effect series. “Mass Effect: Arrival is an exciting extension to Mass Effect 2 and will show players just how close the Reapers are to returning and completing their deadly harvest.”

LA Noire Gameplay Video

Rockstar has a knack for publishing fantastic games, and L.A. Noire looks like it isn't going to disappoint. Unlike Rockstar's renowned Grand Theft Auto franchise, you are operating on the side of the law as you use critical thinking and detective skills to uncover the crimes and cases of 1947 Los Angeles. To learn more, check out this link! This game has two new cool innovations, one is that the game utilizes motion reading technology to simulate facial expressions which are expressed by characters in the game, and the second innovation is that the game isn't just about shooting or solving a typical puzzle, but actually investigating a case, uncovering clues, and interrogating subjects. This is not your typical action adventure game, and people should keep this game under their radar.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jeYym1U226M

Batman: Arkham City Gameplay Trailer

Batman: Arkham City is the successor to Rocksteady's Batman: Arkham Asylum, a game which came out in August, 2009. The game was somewhat of an open world sandbox because the player was free to roam through parts of the Asylum when they were unlocked, but as I can tell so far, Arkham City will be far likely to steer gamers down a linear path. Some of the improvements made to the game are additional combat features, open world gameplay, and more. Check out this amazing trailer!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-V1ZF5cNYCs

Battlefield 2 Gameplayer Trailer: Avoiding the Sniper

I have been a fan of the Battlefield franchise ever since Battlefield 2 came out in 2004. After playing through Battlefield 2142, 1943, Bad Company and Bad Company 2, I still felt myself wanting more. This is especially true for PC gamers, as Battlefield has cut it's player count from 64 players (in BF2) to 32 players. True, simulating higher-end graphics results in compromise, but PC gamers will be happy to know that they will be able to participate in those epic 64 battles again. As for console gamers, they still have something worth looking forward to. Now watch this latest gameplay trailer.

http://www.youtube.com/user/machinima?blend=2&ob=4#p/c/6656FE6D5A4D6973/4/Z02p7ej1Dew









http://www.youtube.com/user/machinima?blend=2&ob=4#p/c/6656FE6D5A4D6973/4/Z02p7ej1Dew

Ninja Gaiden 3 Teaser Trailer

The third Ninja Gaiden has just been revealed. Besides Demon's Souls, there haven't been any "hard" games I have played recently.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d28RTBfJV5o&feature=feedu

For those who have never played Ninja Gaiden before, watch this video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jluv2HxFEqs

Battlefield 3 Announced and Details

While Battlefield 3 is being developed for all three "hardcore" platforms (PC, Xbox 360, and PS3). PC owners will be pleased to know that their game will feature 64 player multiplayer.

http://pc.ign.com/articles/115/1150965p1.html

Rage Untethered Trailer

Like Fallout and Borderlands, this first person shooter takes place in a post apocolyptic setting but this trailer will help set this game apart. Id software the creators of the Doom and Quake franchises putting their talents to the test. A great trailer with great music. Everyone should keep this game under their radar.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3G5b26w46I4

Shogun 2 Demo Coming Next Week

That's right, if you were not sure about purchasing this game of strategic war and epic battles, then get your answer by downloading the demo of Shogun 2: Total War on Steam. Things are looking up for PC gaming this spring when Shogun 2 launches March 15.

Crysis 2 Story Trailer

Crysis 2 is a little over a month away, but for all of your story exposition on the sequel to the graphic intensive PC only shooter, Crysis, look no further than this trailer. The game will arrive on March 22nd in the United States.

http://www.shackvideo.com/crysis-2-story-trailer-24122

Dragon Age II: Familiar Faces

IGN's article on Dragon Age 2 tells you about most of the characters from the first game that are making their returns to the universe of Dragon Age 2.

Learn more at

http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/114/1148514p1.html

Crysis 2 Multiplayer Progression Video

Like Call of Duty and other multiplayer shooters with a level up mechanic, Crysis 2 is offering a very similar approach to upgrading your character class. Learn more by watching the video on the link below.

http://www.gamespot.com/xbox360/action/crysis2/video/6298292?tag=topslot;watchlink;3

Gamespot: Shogun 2 Hands On

Shogun 2 is the next installment of the Total War series of games. Total War games phases between turn based strategy on an in-game map and real time strategy in the actual battles that occur. The game takes place during the 16th century when Japan was interlocked in war, where you pick your own Japanese faction attempt to establish control over Japan. Learn more at...

http://www.gamespot.com/pc/strategy/shogun2totalwar/news.html?sid=6297133&mode=previews&tag=topslot;img;2

Resistance 3 Haven Assault Trailer

Resistance 3 is another PS3 exclusive that is the follow up to Resistance: Fall of Man, and Resistance 2. Check out this awesome new trailer!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFRmuvbLKqI&feature=feedu'

Plot Summary: August, 1957. America is lost. Four years after the end of the critically-acclaimed Resistance 2, dishonorably discharged Sentinel Joseph Capelli has given up fighting the Chimeran menace. Now he's in hiding with other survivors, including his wife and young son. But when Dr. Fyodor Malikov arrives with the opportunity to deliver a blow to the occupying Chimeran force, Capelli must leave his family and journey the harrowing road from Oklahoma to New York City. Along the way, he'll encounter the remnants of humanity left in the aftermath of the brutal Chimeran invasion.

Dark Soul's Debut Trailer

Dark Souls is the spiritual successor of Demon's Souls, an action adventure role playing game developed by From Software that was released in 2009. Like Demon's Souls, this game will also likely have an unique online multiplayer system integrated into the single-player where players can leave useful messages, help other players directly, or invade their worlds. Like Demon's Souls, Dark Souls will likely continue the dark fantasy theme along with a challenging and tough gameplay experience.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7U-a9pJtHQ&feature=channel

PSP's Next Generation Portable

With Sony being renowned for constantly having it's information leaked, they have finally announced details about their new portable gaming system which is currently codenamed NGP (Next Generation Portable). The hardware specs for this portable device are very impressive and the graphics rival this generation of consoles.

Announcement and details:
http://www.gamespot.com/pages/news/story.php?sid=6287052&tag=topslot;img;1

Uncharted gameplay on NGP
http://www.gamespot.com/ngp/action/uncharted/news.html?sid=6287036&mode=previews&tag=topslot;img;2

Operation Flashpoint: Red River Tajikistan Trailer

Operation Flashpoint is a series of games that attempt to depict war at it's most realistic elements. This game's plot will concern a fictional conflict in Tajikistan in 2013 during a civil war. The US Marine Corps moves in to mediate the conflict. However, the People's Liberation Army of China starts to become suspicious of American intervention, When China order the Marines to leave, they refuse, and the world's next flashpoint erupts. The game will come out on Xbox 360, PC, and PS3 at an unannounced date.

http://www.gametrailers.com/video/exclusive-entry-operation-flashpoint/709790

FF13 Versus Japanese Gameplay Reveal

Finally, we get to see how Final Fantasy 13 Versus is shaping up. I personally feel like it's a shame that Square Enix is devoting more staff to Final Fantasy 13-2 as opposed to this game, but I look forward to seeing this darker Final Fantasy game to renew the franchise of it's stellar reputation.

The game looks amazing for a work in progress, and it's not coming out this year (both good and bad), so the game has even more development time.

http://www.gametrailers.com/video/japanese-gameplay-final-fantasy/709809

L.A. Niore Dated

L.A. Noire is a video game developed by Team Bondi, and is going to be published by Rockstar Games. L.A. Noire is set in Los Angelas during 1947, with players being given an open-ended challenge to solve a series of murder mysteries.

The game is heavily inspired from both plot and aesthetic elements of film noir - stylistic films from the 1940s and 1950s that shared similar visual styles and themes including crime, sex and moral ambiguity and were often shot in black and white with harsh, low-key lighting. The post-war setting is the backdrop for plot elements that reference the detective films of the '40s, such as corruption and drugs, with some smooth classical jazz to boot.

L.A. Noire is also notable for using Lightsprint's real-time global technology, as well as a newly developed piece of technology called MotionScan, where actors are recorded by 32 surrounding cameras to capture facial expressions from every angle and intergrate into the video game cutscenes. The game is set to launch May 17th.

A Killer's Motive Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RWltTKgPzzU&feature=feedu

Crysis 2 Multiplayer Demo

Starting tommorow, the Crysis 2 multiplayer demo will be open to all of those who have Xbox Live Gold subscriptions. While Crysis 2 multiplayer offers the typical array of game modes (team deathmatch and the like), one distinguishing factor are the super powered nanosuits that players have equiped during gameplay. These "nanosuits"give players super natural abilities such as invisibility, speed, increased armor, or super strength. To learn more about the game and preview some interesting gameplay footage, copy and paste the following links.

Interview:
http://www.gametrailers.com/video/multiplayer-modes-crysis-2/709694

Gameplay:
http://www.gametrailers.com/video/multiplayer-rooftops-crysis-2/709696
http://www.gametrailers.com/video/multiplayer-streets-crysis-2/709698

Killzone 3 and SOCOM 4 Beta

If you were already planning on picking up Sony’s next big first-person shooter Killzone 3, then you will be delighted to know that your purchase will also give you a voucher to participate in the SOCOM 4 beta. The voucher comes in both the regular and standard editions of Killzone 3, so nobody will be left out in the cold. Unfortunately, no one knows when the SOCOM 4 Beta will begin.

In other good news, PS3 owners who didn't have access to the closed Killzone 3 beta now have a chance to get their feet wet starting on Feb. 2 and running through Feb. 14, 2011. Players can download the Killzone 3 beta and try all three of the game's online multiplayer modes in the Frozen Dam level. This trial period will support 3D displays and PlayStation Move controls. Look for the beta on the PlayStation Network.

Homefront Multiplayer

Homefront is a first person shooter made by Kaos Studios, who previously developed Frontlines: Fuel of War. Homefront is scheduled to ship pretty soon, this March in fact, on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC. Recently video game journalists had access to play the game's online modes. Online shooters like Call of Duty Black Ops and Battlefield Bad Company 2 have set high standards for first person shooters. With the release of other games such as Bulletstorm, Killzone 3, Crysis 2, and Brink, it's interesting to see how this one scales up.

Multiplayer interview:
http://www.gametrailers.com/video/multiplayer-interview-homefront/709509

Multiplayer walkthrough:
part 1: http://www.gametrailers.com/video/multiplayer-walkthrough-homefront/709511
part 2: http://www.gametrailers.com/video/multiplayer-walkthrough-homefront/709513

Duke Nukem Forever Reveal Trailer

Finally, Duke Nukem Forever has something few gamers ever thought it would receive--a hard release date. Developer Gearbox Software and publisher 2K Games announced this morning that the long-in-the-works shooter will ship simultaneously for the PC, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360 on May 3 in North America and May 6 worldwide. While this game will most likely not live up to the ridiculous amount of hype, gamers who long awaited the return of the Duke will have something to look forward to.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5pDaWaPttU&feature=channel

Brink: Choir of Guns trailer

Brink is an immersive shooter that wants to blend single-player, co-op, and multiplayer gameplay into one seamless experience by allowing you to develop your character across all modes of play. You decide the role you want to assume in the world of Brink as you fight to save yourself and mankinds last refuge for humanity. Brink offers a compelling mix of dynamic battlefields, extensive customization options, and an innovative control system that will keep you coming back for more.

To me, this game feels like a blend of Team Fortress 2 because of its cartoony style and class based gameplay as well as Mirror's Edge for its parkour elements.

Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tI4y2P0r7K0
Developer Diary: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oy4LL2CV1ZQ

Assassin's Creed Brotherhood Free DLC

New downloadable content for Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood is now available for a free across all platforms. This DLC features a new game type called Treasure Hunt in which hunters are supposed to steal treasure from the protectors without being spotted and eliminated.

Check out this trailer. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BlNfSmCTKgs&feature=sub

Final Fantasy 13 XIII-2 Announced

Square Enix has just announced the sequel to Final Fantasy XIIII in the 1st Production Department Premier event in Tokyo today. Final Fantasy 13 (which I played) was one out of many video games I actually didn't finish. While the game had beautiful cinamatics, graphics, and high production values, my personal gripe with the game was its combat system, linearity, and Japanese to English dubbing. Frankly I would prefer if I could play Final Fantasy 13 in Japanese with English subtitles.

Hopefully they address my personal gripes with the first Final Fantasy 13 game. Best of luck to you Square Enix.

Teaser Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KrRJo5oWLQg&feature=feedu

Black Ops: First Strike DLC

This video contains details on the new downloadable content coming to Call of Duty Black Ops on the 1st of February for $15. In addition to four new maps, a new map for the Nazi Zombies gametype will also be added called Ascension. For those that have played Modern Warfare 2, their last 2 map packs were also $15 dollars, but they only featured two redone maps from Modern Warfare 1 and three unique maps, so the First Strike DLC seems to provide gamers more bang for their buck. So if you have extra money or you sadly didn't buy the Battlefield Vietnam expansion for Bad Company 2, you may pour some money into this piece of downloadable content starting on February 1st.

http://www.gametrailers.com/video/first-strike-call-of/709349

Bulletstorm Weapons, Echoes, and Anarchy

EPIC's next big shooter that looks heavily inspired off the unreal tournament series is coming out February 22nd. Like Unreal Tournament, this game features ridiculous weapons, lots of swearing, and ridiculous combat. For those who preorder the game on Xbox 360 can get access to the Gears of War 3 beta, however given that there are so many shooters coming around February to the beggining of the Summer, I would actually wait for the reviews to come out for this game before you buy and you find yourself short on money. Killzone 3, Crysis 2, Brink, F3AR, Dues Ex Human Revolution will also eventually come out, plus there is a slew of non FPS games like Dragon Age 2 and Little Big Planet 2.

Regardless enjoy the trailer :D http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwOaZyvGHZo&feature=sub

Little Big Planet 2: Launch Center

Little Big Planet 2, the sequel to the platforming game where players can create, play, and share their own customized levels to the rest of the game's community. While the first Little Big Planet was primarily a platformer, LBP2 seeks to expand beyond platformers and take elements from other types of genre's such as strategy, sports, shooter, and racing and incorporate it into the tools gamers use to customize their own levels. To learn more and be enthralled, check out Gamespot's launch center for Little Big Planet 2 along with these trailers.

Launch Center:
http://www.gamespot.com/showcases/lbp2-lc?tag=topslot;img;5

Trailers:

Debut: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oy_a3oCDzRA
Sports: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HC76eo8ve_s
Adventure: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ky-JUL0SDDs
Grappling Hook: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zRk4-nOg1-0
Sackbots: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CMdFYQA5UjE&feature=channel
Grabinator: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kc9wOT_x2ng&feature=channel
Creationator: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2pflXMBOAA&feature=related

Vizeo News

Vizeo was the reason I was able to buy a cheap TV with 1080p picture quality, so I can't resist talking about them here. Vizeo is a company that primarily produces cheap and decent television sets, but there doing a little more for us gamers. One of these things is that they are working on developing 3D televisions that are less than $300 dollars, and also OnLive has joined hands with to integrate support for its cloud gaming service.

In other news, Vizeo is also ranching out and working on it's own entertainment "tablet" as well as a smartphone. More info at: http://uk.gear.ign.com/articles/114/1143004p1.html

Dragon Age 2: Combat Walkthrough

Here is a walkthrough video on what the Bioware team is doing in regards to Dragon Age 2's combat system. The combat was fairly slow paced and meant to be played strategically by pausing the game and picking out moves you wanted you and your companions to use. PC gamers got the good end of the stick when it came to the game's combat in the first Dragon Age, but console owners got unlucky due to a clunky inferface and mediocre controls. Bioware has mentioned that one of their main goals for Dragon Age 2 was to make the combat more manageable and enjoyable for a console.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gyR1fGMCLXo

Personally, this seems like this year is going to be one of the best years for RPG's because two Bioware games are being released this year along with Elder Scrolls 5. Let's just cross our fingers that Elder Scrolls 5 and Mass Effect 3 don't get delayed into 2012.

Here is a list of some amazing trailers for games that are coming out next year. Most of these trailers were featured in the Spike Video Games Awards Show.

Killzone 3: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3QdydrzwdM0

Mass Effect 3: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BnEej1RfqTs

Uncharted 3: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHHcM6aHPnE

Elder Scrolls 5: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B0fQWkk9Z6s

Batman – Arkham City: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zRW-_wRAyvg

Prototype 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZ5xW-Yo720