Living LIVE 08.10.09: The 33rd Edition

Posted by Trace Aber on 08.10.2009

A full review of Turtles in Time: Re-Shelled, GLITNIR, Ultimate Sacrifice, and Veks and Silence. Plus we got information on Call of Duty: World at War, Fallout 3, and Fight Night Round 4 DLC. And if that wasn't enough, we have the latest on the newest movies and more!



Opening Comments
Last week I got to take part in the preview of the next Xbox Dashboard update. While what I've seen isn't revolutionary (or even as important as the last big upgrade), this new one still has some good stuff to it. I don't really know who's going to actually use the Netflix party feature, but being able to add videos to your playlist from the console itself is very nice.

Other features, such as the gold member veterans, I haven't really noticed a difference. I've had gold off and on for a while and while I do have a little number by me, I have not received any of the special "perks" that were promised. Perhaps they're still working on this? The avatar props are...a diversion at best to be honest. I can't really see anyone purchasing any of the items for sale unless they have a lot of cash to spend, but I guess it does add something. The user ratings are a nice touch and have been pretty fair for the most part, so this might actually come in handy assuming everyone uses it.

My biggest disappointment, however, was the Games on Demand section. I was excited about the idea of downloading games like Bioshock, Mass Effect and Assassin's Creed, but after seeing their prices my mind has changed about all of that. I understand that there's the whole "convenience" factor, but I think that's negated when you have to download the entire game and don't get all of the added benefits like having a box, a hard copy, and a manual (even though you can get those online, still not the same). I was expecting retail prices, and while it's only a few extra bucks per game, it's a very self-defeating price.

You can download the full update once it's released on August 11 and can check out things for yourselves. Let me know what you think of the newest Xbox Live Update in the comments section below!

For those of you who haven't heard, PayPal is now available for Xbox users in the United States. If you want to do this, here's how:
-Sign up for a PayPal Account
-Sign into Xbox.com and go to the Account Summary Page
-Choose "Manage Payment Options" and click "Add a new PayPal Account"
-Follow the instructions given

There are a few restrictions to this, however;
PayPal is currently supported for Xbox LIVE users in the U.S. only.
PayPal can only be used to purchase Microsoft Points on Xbox.com.
PayPal accounts are not available for purchasing Microsoft Points on the Xbox 360 console.
You can associate multiple Pay Pal accounts with your Xbox LIVE account.

And, without further ado...

I'm Trace Aber and this is Living LIVE.

Game Marketplace - A look at the arcade games, demos, and add-ons released this week.

Turtles in Time Re-Shelled (800MP)
Seeing as how some people find it offensive when I don't review certain arcade games, and in addition to the fact that there seems to be a lot of mixed opinions out there, I thought I would take the time to do a quick review of this game. Some people absolutely love the game while others think it's a cheap remake and not worth the 800MP asked. Personally, I think it's worth the current price, but not at all worth the original 1200MP. The biggest complaint that people have is that it is a remake of the arcade version of Turtles in Time and not the SNES version.

When you load up the game you get a more stylized version of the original opening and that's when you realize that this game is definitely true to the layout and design of the original. You'll find that true with just about everything in this game, except of course now it's in a fully 3D-plane which provides for a few more additions to the gameplay. Some moves, such as the double jump attack, have been taken out or replaced, but considering I haven't played the original game in years I didn't realize this until I read up on the game. The action can get pretty crazy with four people playing (considering you get four times the enemies as well), but thankfully pressing the left trigger will bring up an icon showing you where your turtle is.



The turtles have different stats that you have to take into account, but overall the biggest differences between them would be range and speed, which are still two pretty important stats. Graphically, the game takes on the style of the more recent turtles, which is good or bad thing depending on who you ask. Some levels look kind of bland at certain points but since there's always a lot going on all the time, it doesn't really bother me all of that much. I only noticed it when I was watching other people play.

The biggest disappointment of the game is that they replaced the original soundtrack. For those of you who don't remember, the original Turtles in Time had one of the best soundtracks to a beat 'em up I have ever heard. While most of the songs in the game are simple remixes, nothing can replace the greatness of the original songs. But, at the same time, with this being "re-shelled," it makes sense for the remixes and I don't know if the original songs would fit as well as they once did due to the completely feel of the game. As you could imagine, the game doesn't take too long to beat. I would say a good thirty to forty-five minutes, depending on the amount of people and the skill involved, would be needed to complete the game. Once you beat the game you get a survival mode and a level select mode, but neither one offer anything truly unique.



Overall, Turtles in Time truly is a "re-shelled" version of the arcade classic - different look, feel, and environment. Some people will be turned off by this while others won't mind it. While I would have liked some other features to be add (such as being able to switch to original graphics, which has been popular nowadays), overall this isn't a terrible way to spend ten bucks. It may not be the most complete experience and die hard Turtle fans will probably be more content with the original XBLA game, newer fans will definitely have a good time with this and it serves as a good diversion, which really is what beat 'em ups are all about to me. Just make sure you try out the demo before you buy, because I've seen people who hate this and love this for the exact same reasons.
Rating: 7.5

Indie Games

Veks and Silence (400MP)
Featuring thirteen levels, Veks and Silence puts you in the shoes of Silence, a former video game hero who is released from jail to save the world from the hordes of zombies that have taken over. The game is pretty simple - run around town and shoot everything in your path. Silence wears a wifebeater and a bag over his head, so clearly he has no problems killing zombies like it's his damn job. The action is fast paced as you run about town shooting zombie after zombie, including giant zombies. You can pick up a variety of weapons, including a pistol, shotgun, sniper, and a chaingun, each having different weights and etc.. After you get ten kills in a row you are given a rage icon, which allows you to have invincibility and increased weapon damage for a short period of time. There is a slight humor to the game, including using alcohol as a shield.



The way the levels are presented remind of of Left 4 Dead in the sense that they have certain themes and have movie posters to represent them. It's mostly the movie posters, to be honest. The game features 3D graphics and tons of gore, with all of it looking good. The biggest downside to all of this is the fact it's on a 2D plane, which really limits what this game could have been. The music is standard fare and nothing to write home about, but nothing to complain about either.

Overall, Veks and Silence is a fun little shooter that is a pretty good deal for 400MP. While I only got to play one level, I can imagine the other twelve to be just as varied and interesting as the first one. And, honestly, who doesn't want another zombie game added to their collection?
Rating: 7.0

Ultimate Sacrifice (80MP)
Upon loading this game, I got nothing but a screen telling me to go to a website, which I could not read. In fact, you can't even exit out of the game without pressing the guide button, so it's more of a trap than anything. So, that being said, this would be a huge waste of 80MP and should not be purchased under any circumstance.
Rating: 0.0

GLITNIR (80MP)
Glitnir is a 3D tower defense game, and not 3D in the sense that it looks crisp and clear. 3D in the sense that you have to control the camera 360 degree on a multi-layered cube that is rather dense. So, as you can tell from the start - this game will not be easy. Your goal is to protect GLITNIR, a space station constructed by humans in the first step of "space advancement," whatever that may entail. The problem? "The space alien doesn't like us." My problem? I don't like GLITNIR either.


Not Picture: Logic

First off, the game simply has way too much dynamic text on the screen at once. Every time I move around half of the text changes, making it next to impossible to make a logical decision. Adding to these troubles is the fact that I hate the camera and controls of the game. I understand they wanted to do something different with the game to make it stand out, but this is not the way to go. Instead of providing a fun and unique challenge, you're left guessing what the hell is going on. At no point did I know the range, attack, or path of my enemies...or my defenses for that matter.

Some people may be into this and be willing to figure out how to work the camera and logic behind the game, but I personally cannot. I appreciate trying to be different and the very low selling price, but even at 80MP I can't suggest this game to anyone because it's just not practical.
Rating: 3.0

Game Demos

Batman: Arkham Asylum
Download the demo and experience a twisted and gritty adventure that takes you to the depths of ARKHAM ASYLUM. Become the fear that strikes from the darkness, fight hordes of enemies using dynamic combat, and think like BATMAN, the WORLD'S GREATEST DETECTIVE. You will need to confront Gotham City's most notorious villains and unravel a demented plot orchestrated by the CLOWN PRINCE OF CRIME himself, The Joker.

Game Add-Ons

Call of Duty: World at War Map Pack 3 (800MP)
Call of Duty: World at War Map Pack 3 further expands the COD multiplayer experience with four new maps. Fight for ocean territory in "Battery," defend Russia's resources in "Revolution," and battle in the dense streets of "Breach." Zombies return in "Der Riese" (Zombie Factory), a Nazi research facility featuring a weapon upgrading Pack A Punch Machine, teleporters, and 10 Achievements.
Note: Expect a review of this later on this week. For those who don't want to wait - this is a must have for COD:WAW fans, and Der Riese brings more to the table than any other zombie map

Rock Band
"Tonight I'm Gonna Rock You Tonight" by Spinal Tap (160MP)
"Stonehenge" by Spinal Tap (160MP)
"Rock 'n' Roll Creation" by Spinal Tap (160MP)
"Hell Hole" by Spinal Tap (160MP)
"Heavy Duty" by Spinal Tap (160MP)
"Gimme Some Money" by Spinal Tap (160MP)
"Cups and Cakes" by Spinal Tap (160MP)
"Big Bottom" by Spinal Tap (160MP)
"America" by Spinal Tap (160MP)
"(Listen to the) Flower People (Reggae Stylee)" by Spinal Tap (160MP)
"(Funky) Sex Farm" by Spinal Tap (160MP)

Fallout 3: Mothership Zeta (800MP)
A strange Alien signal is being broadcast throughout the Capital Wasteland, originating from a crashed UFO. Is it a distress call, or something far more sinister? That question is answered when you find yourself beamed aboard an enormous Alien spacecraft, with only one alternative – to fight your way to the bridge of the ship and secure your escape. Mothership Zeta takes Fallout 3 in an entirely new direction – outer space. Meet new characters and join with them in a desperate bid to escape the Aliens' clutches. To do so, you'll wield powerful new weapons, like the Alien Atomizer, Alien Disintegrator and Drone Cannon, and deck yourself out in brand new outfits, like the Gemini-Era Spacesuit and even Samurai Armor.

Fight Night Round 4 Download Content 1
EA SPORTS Fight Night Round 4 is truly the Return of the Champ. Building off EA SPORTS Fight Night Round 3, one of the best-selling and most critically acclaimed games to come out at the onset of the Xbox 360 hardware launch, EA SPORTS Fight Night Round 4 promises to be equally as ground-breaking and revolutionary. With an all new gameplay engine, truly unique and differentiated boxer styles, and the most impressive boxer roster ever including the debut of the legendary Iron Mike Tyson, EA SPORTS Fight Night Round 4 takes video game boxing and fighting to an entirely new level. Download Fight Night Round 4 Downloadable Content 1 featuring Sponsored Tournaments, Additional Training Gym, New Gameplay Sliders, and additional apparel.

TigerWoodsPGATOUR® 10 - Course - Cog Hill Golf & CC (400MP)
Experience one of the four courses Cog Hill has situated in Lemont, Illinois. Play like a pro on the course where the PGA's Western Open is hosted every year. Its world-famous Dubsdread #4 course offers rolling fairways and greens. The signature hole is number six, a long par 3 with a two-tiered green that slopes toward the front and is surrounded by six deep sand bunkers. Cog Hill has something to offer players at every level.

Call of Juarez: Bound in Blood
Relive even more legendary Wild West shootouts with four additional multiplayer maps.

LIVE Activity for week of July 27th

Xbox 360 Top LIVE Titles
1 Halo 3
2 Call of Duty 4
3 Call of Duty: WaW
4 Gears of War 2
5 GTA IV
6 Battlefield 1943
7 Marvel vs. Capcom 2
8 1 vs 100
9 FIFA 09
10 Left 4 Dead

Top Arcade Titles
1 Marvel vs. Capcom 2
2 Battlefield 1943
3 Splosion Man
4 Castle Crashers
5 The Secret of Monkey Island™: Special Edition
6 Worms 2: Armageddon
7 Magic: The Gathering - Duels of the Planeswalkers
8 UNO
9 Teeage Mutant Ninja Turtles 1989 Classic Arcade
10 Hasbro Family Game Night

Original Xbox Top Live Titles
1 Halo 2
2 Star Wars: Battlfrnt 2
3 Counter-Strike
4 Fable
5 Splinter Cell Chaos
6 Conker: Live Reloaded
7 Doom 3
8 Star Wars: Battlefront
9 SW: Republic Commando
10 SW: KOTOR

Top Community Games
1 RC-AirSim
2 Fireworks HD
3 myFishtank
4 Kodu Game Lab
5 Gamerbots:Third-Robot Shooting
6 A Perfect Massage
7 Physics Sandbox
8 3D Magic Images
9 Cyborg Mice Arena
10 A Morons Challenge

Video Marketplace

Octane (480MP, 320MP)
In the world of racing, there are no rules and adrenaline is the only name of the game. When bad boy Brent Black discovers the fun but dangerous ways of illegal street racing, he faces a deadly challenge from a long time rival. Does he have what it takes to win? The stakes are high and everything worth living for is on the line. But when you live life in the fast lane, anything can happen. High speed, high risk... high OCTANE.


Death Trance (480MP, 320MP)
In an unknown place and unknown time, a lone Samurai known only as Grave thirsts for the ultimate battle. Grave has stolen a mysterious coffin from the holy Tougan Temple — a coffin said to contain a great power. Trapped inside the sealed coffin is the Goddess of Destruction, confined and held at bay from laying waste to this world. Grave fearlessly travels the land dragging the coffin behind him, aware that what lies within is what he seeks — if only he can open it. Unknown to Grave, a young temple monk has embarked on a quest to return this relic to its proper home before anyone can unleash an unstoppable cataclysm. So begins the race to claim the coffin...but who will get there first?

The Answer Man (840MP, 560MP
Arlen Faber (Jeff Daniels) is the reclusive and misanthropic author of "Me and God," a book that has redefined spirituality for an entire generation and has been translated into over 100 languages. On the eve of the 20th anniversary of his still wildly popular book, Arlen is still sought after as the man who has all the answers. Arlen find his world turned upside down when his life collides with Elizabeth (Lauren Graham), a single mother who might just be able to provide the salvation he needs.

The Libertine (480MP, 320MP)
In every generation, there comes along a person so scandalous, so rebellious, so willing to break taboos that they topple the world's ideas of what being a free spirit truly means. In the 17th century that person was unequivocally John Wilmot, AKA the 2nd Earl of Rochester – the wily and talented rogue who in the course of his short, wild life, become known all at once as a troublemaker, a genius and one of history's most irrepressible believers in liberty.

Events

Monday: Music Monday - Guitar Hero: World Tour

Tuesday: Family Game Night - Spolsion Man

Wednesday: GamerchiX Ladies Night - Call of Duty: World at War

Thursday: Indie Games Night - Quarx

Friday: Frag Doll Friday - Call of Duty: World at War Map Pack 3

Saturday: Arcade Afternoon - Band of Bugs, Madball, A Kingdom for Keflings and UNO

Saturday: XBox All-Nighter: Madden NFL 10

Sunday: Community Playdate: GamerHusbands (Call of Duty: Modern Warfare)

Closing

Join us next Monday for more of the latest news, reviews, and downloads on Xbox Live! Any questions or comments can be posted below! Also, don't forget to bookmark 411 as your homepage, because, I mean, you come here everyday anyways. Just save yourself the trouble.

Screenshots
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