411 Games Holiday 2006 Roundtable
Posted by Sean Garmer on 12.22.2006
Who had the better launch? Which system do you want to buy right now? And what are we playing? Find out in the 411 Games roundtable! Also this is complete with a Last Minute Buyers guide for all of those late shoppers out there! Trust us, if the game is on here, you can be assured someone will be happy.
HOLIDAY 2006 Games Roundtable
Hello everyone, welcome to the 411 Video Games roundtable for the month of December, complete with a Holiday Buyers Guide for all those last minute shoppers out there. I think we got almost all of the Games Staffers to contribute this month. So let's not delay this any longer, come meet the awesome 411 Games staff. Also, the order that the staff is introduced, is also the order in which each of them will speak.
So he doesn't have a name for his column yet Working Title but come on you can't deny it is damn good, don't forget he also does game reviews. Give it up for Jordan Williams
He's relatively new but he does some mean game reviews he's David Redkey
His column is Angry Gamer He also does game reviews, but you better remember the most important thing, his name is Damian Sarcuni
Joshua Richey is a busy man here around the Games section. He writes the new news report for Microsoft's XBOX 360 called XBOX A Go-Go He also has a column that comes out every now and then called Pressing Buttons plus he writes game reviews too.
This man does double duty for the games section too. Writing a news report and Gaming Trends Here he is, Vincent Chiucchi
Nintendo would love to have this guy because of his terrific news report Nintendophiles Nintendo call Theo Fraser and give him a Wii already.
This Englishman does game reviews and always puts things into Retrospective It's Sean McCabe
I think of Shawn Struck as the 411 Games wiseman because he knows so much about the video game industry. He writes Codes and Games plus he also writes game reviews and gets 411 some cool interviews.
He always leaves you searching for some Unlockable Content Remember the name Will Scott It might be worth some points later.
The only man that goes Retro and current in the same week, Steve McHugh
A Relatively new guy on the block, Adam Smith always checks in with game reviews.
Another game reviewer Ramon Aranda also finds himself busy writing lots of news for 411 Games.
He organizes Fact or Fiction, he writes game reviews, and a news report. Man Tommy Coloma is a busy man around these parts.
Can't forget about our loving editor, fellow game reviewer, and UFC column writer, Caleb Newby
I'm your loveable host that writes game reviews and also writes a column in the Wrestling section, Sean Garmer
Here are the questions. After this will be the 411 Games last minute Holiday Buyers Guide, so all you parents, or other holiday shoppers pay attention because if we recommend it, we can guarantee someone will enjoy the game.
1. Biggest Winner of the Month:
Jordan "Ogre" Williams:Nintendo. and it's not even some fanboy thing. They had a near perfect launch, got a LOT of systems sold, and pretty much let everyone know they are ready this time. We don't know how good the Wii will do, but we do know that Nintendo has at least learned from SOME of the mistakes of the N64 and the Gamecube.
David Redkey:Nintendo 600,000 Wii's sold in 8 days. That's not a bad number by any stretch of the imagination. Nintendo has positioned themselves as an alternative to the HD-gaming crowd by taking the Nintendo DS route. Now, the question is: can they keep it up? Will 3rd Party companies come back and show Nintendo love? Will this be another Gamecube or N64?
Damian Sarcuni:Nintendo. An absolutely flawless launch as expected, and despite a few wrist strap mishaps, everything is going according to plan. We'll all be sucking down mushrooms and freezing Metroids once again by next year.
Joshua Richey:Nintendo. I expected the Wii to be a hit, but come on, not even I could have expected this. Every Wii that gets placed on the shelf is instantly purchased, and over a million Wii's have already been sold in 2 weeks! That's unheard of in the gaming business.
Vincent Chuicchi:PS3 eBay sellers who made off with lots of cash for selling the very cheap Blu-Ray player at a price greater then the Samsung Blu-Ray player, and people were willing to buy it. Prices ranged in the $2000 area and some went for $15000 (legitimacy of the bids undetermined).
Theo Fraser:Nintendo. This was one of the most successful months the company has had in years. They've once again made headline news, they're what everyone is talking about (for all the right reasons, unlike a certain other competitor, and hell…they've sold 600,000 units in the US, and when I stopped by the UK equivalent of the Nintendo Fusion tour, the buzz surrounding the machine was unheard of. Literally, people of all ages were stopping in their tracks to see Wii Sports and find out what on earth was going on. Nintendo have definitely accomplished what they set out to do; appeal to the mass market, and attract new gamers, 2006 will be looked back on by Nintendo as a big thumbs up.
Sean McCabe:Nintendo Might I direct your attention towards the 400 odd thousand new Wii consoles they shifted in three weeks? Yep, Nintendo are back, they're back in motion sensing! It's only a few days before I finally get my hands on one, and might I say I do not believe I have ever been this excited just to try out a new console. Not even the N64.
Shawn Struck:Nintendo Why? I'm pretty sure I can sum it up in one picture from XKCD.com I haven't heard of anyone getting shot in a Wii line. It seems to be converting people of all demographics into video gamers, the Virtual Console launches have stabilized, there are some pretty compelling games for it right out of the gate, and the low price point has resulted in banner year sales. So while Sony and Microsoft are losing money with each console sold, Nintendo's actually making a profit on each sale.
Will Scott:Nintendo If the Wii had come out over here then Nintendo would win this but it didn't and with the superb month of games released by Microsoft, and with only one worthwhile game released by Nintendo, I just feel that they take it. If I'd done this a week later or if Gears of War hadn't been released though that may be very different.
Steve McHugh:Microsoft If the Wii had come out over here then Nintendo would win this but it didn't and with the superb month of games released by Microsoft, and with only one worthwhile game released by Nintendo, I just feel that they take it. If I'd done this a week later or if Gears of War hadn't been released though that may be very different.
Adam Smith:Nintendo Ignore the Wii for a second. The DS had three AAA titles come out in Final Fantasy 3, Yoshi's Island 2, and Elite Beat Agents. Furthermore, the DS continues to sell huge numbers everywhere and is up for Gadget of the Year by Time (winning it too last time I checked). The DS is currently the system of the year by most accounts in terms of dominance, sales, and games. Coupled with the Wii launch, nothing can compare to what Nintendo did.
Ramon Aranda:Nintendo They have been riding high not only with the Wii but also with the Nintendo DS. Sales have been staggering and even the DS continues to sell out in Japan. The amount of hype and coverage for the Wii has been overwhelming and the response by gamers and non-gamers alike is deafening.
Tommy Coloma:Microsoft Yeah yeah, So, Nintendo sold every Wii at launch and every system that appears on the shelves is immediately snatched up, same thing for the PS3. That doesn't matter any more. At this point in time the only way to get either is by being lucky or by taking it up the ass from some bastard on eBay. So, what are people going to buy if they're desperate to go next-gen this winter? The system that's immediately available of course. It also doesn't hurt that the system that anyone can pick up has a lot of quality games that are already out for it. Microsoft is going to sell a lot of 360s this winter. Expect the Xbox 360's sales for this month to be a lot higher than those of the Wii and the PS3 (if they aren't already). It may be a win by default, but it's still a win.
Caleb Newby:Nintendo The launch of the Wii went as well as could be hoped and other than a slight hiccup (like people breaking wristbands and sending the controller careening into snow globes and other breakable items), has had negligible negative news. The Wii has been a hit with gamers but more importantly, has by all accounts succeeded in its goal of bringing in non-gamers. Add in the extremely healthy life of the DS and a better than usual launch lineup for the Wii and Nintendo should be quite happy this holiday season.
Sean Garmer:Nintendo I think it's a pretty obvious choice here, but Nintendo did almost everything right this month. Sure, there was a mishap with the Wii straps but that's not really Nintendo's fault, that people don't know how to control themselves. At least they are doing the nice thing and replacing them for free. Unlike Microsoft that screws up people's 360's with a downloadable update, and won't fix them, how bogus is that? They deserved to be sued. Anyway, Wii had a great launch, with at least three or four noteworthy games coming along with it. Where PS3 only had one game that was worth buying, not to mention the Wii is selling off the shelves everywhere. You also have to give credit to the DS that continues to sell like wildfire. Also Nintendo and it's third party developers have done a fantastic job in coming out with terrific games for the little system, and the outlook for the DS continues to look bright. The DS has totally and utterly, kicked Sony's ass in the handheld department proving that sometimes games do win over multimedia.
2. Biggest Loser of the Month:
Jordan "Ogre" Williams:Sony, but not for reasons you'd think...only afew of them. That launch was hideous, we know that much, but Sony is supposed to the LEAD in gaming right now, they shouldn't make stupid mistakes like this without a back up plan. They pretty much let Nintendo and Microsoft, a company who should've gotten lost in the shuffle this month, pretty much get a bit innovative and Gears of War filled shit on their lawn.
David Redkey:Sony The problems with 1080i or other compatibility issues can be addressed but the simple fact that Sony didn't put enough systems in people's hands was a big no-no. It still looks like the PS3 can take the number one spot one more time, but they aren't making things any easier at this point.
Damian Sarcuni:Sony We all knew the PS3 was in trouble, but who could have possibly predicted it would turn the country into a post G-virus Raccoon City?
Joshua Richey:Sony I like to think that the downfall of Sony has began. They went into this launch with so much arrogance, that I'm elated to see them just fall flat on to their faces. It is going to get worse for these folks before it gets any better.
Vincent Chiucchi:Wikran Lumyai This month has plenty of idiots to make fun of, especially around buying/selling the PS3. But the idiot I'm going to single out this month is Wikran Lumyai. This idiot was going to sell his two PS3s and lots of games for $5000, but the two people wanting to make the trade said to meet them at a parking lot of a McDonalds at 1am. Lumyai agrees, gets his ass PWNED and the suspects run off with his loot MMORPG style. U R @ M0R0N, LOL!
Theo Fraser:Sony What a dismal launch, eh? Sure, they sold out, but the way the launch was handled was atrocious. I STILL can't get over the stupidity of Sony turning up at one location with a van full of EMPTY boxes. The mind boggles! Despite the sell-out at launch, Sony has only been garnering negative press, which I personally don't think will die out until a true killer app is released. So enjoy the next few months of Sony-bashing while it lasts.
Sean McCabe:Sony Hm, Riots, scalping, an overpriced console that is all shine and no fine, and bad publicity that stretches back to E3 this year. Look like losers to me.
Shawn Struck:Sony Why? Shipping units were significantly under the project 400,000 units on launch. If quantities remain low, it is most likely that potential PS3'ers will pick up a 360 this holiday season (simply because they target the same audience), or the Nintendo Wii (due to its much lower price point). This is even worse news for Sony, as Microsoft's Xbox HD-DVD add on for $200 is definitely a much easier alternative to purchasing a blu-ray player- especially for those who have already picked up an Xbox for the holidays.
Will Scott:Sony Not only was PS3's release a bit of a disaster, but the front has been relatively quiet as far as the quality of the games. Getting overshadowed by the Wii is acceptable - but having Gears of War get more press than the PS3's launch titles is unacceptable.
Steve McHugh:Sony Oh I wish Sony would sort it out. I love the PS1 and the PS2 is a great console with a fantastic games selection but the PS3 launch was less of a bang and more of a limp fizzle. Yes they sold most of the consoles shipped but considering the number is tiny compared to original thoughts that's not too hard. The main problem is that whilst they sold X number of consoles they didn't sell enough games to mean everyone brought one. The launch line up was fairly forgettable and with developers like Namco saying that they'd have to sell 500,000 copies of a game just to break even it looks like some 3rd party developers may be leaving Sony's new console. Not a good month. Hopefully, Sony will sort it out by the European launch next March. Either that or it'll get to January and they'll put it back again till June.
Adam Smith:Microsoft Sure, Gears of War came out, but guess what? It's a good game, but people have already moved on. Sony's PS3 has had Microsoft completely lost in the hype. Between the lack of Gears being the killer multiplayer ap that so many people wanted it to be, and the 360 just being lost in the shuffle of the PS3/Wii hype despite heavy marketing it's been a disappointing month for Microsoft. Oh, they also missed their whole "10 Million 360s in household before you can buy a PS3" promise too.
Ramon Aranda:Sony has been fumbling like Tiki Barber in 2001. Delays and more delays not to mention that they could not ship out enough PS3s as promised. 180K as opposed to 400K is a big missed opportunity. Launch titles aren't doing very well with the exception of Resistance. The attach rate was abysmal with a high percentage of PS3 purchases ending up on ebay and we even saw violence and theft.
Tommy Coloma: People that wanted to get a PS3 or Wii at launch but couldn't Unless these people happen to find themselves in the right place at the right time or unless they like paying $200-$600 more for their gaming fix, they will not be owning either of these systems any time soon.
Caleb Newby:Sony I feel like a broken record here but with the shortages of PS3s on the market and lack of a great launch title (Resistance almost counts, but not quite) the month of November could have been better for the reigning king of gaming. Sure, they received the majority of the press around launch time… but the underlying story was how the people lining up were actually going to sell their systems on Ebay. I almost forgot to mention that as of right now games on the 360 look equal in quality or better than their PS3 counterparts. Fortunately, for Sony one month doesn't make or break a system and as more time passes we should hopefully see the true abilities of the PS3 unfold.
Sean Garmer:Sony I only say Sony because they had an overwhelming amount of problems and it's not about their launch. Sony may have had issues with the PS3, and there is no way they are releasing a million of the systems in two weeks, but their marketing ploy worked. The small amount of systems available at launch created a huge buzz around the system and people are willing to do anything to get it. As negative as it looks to have people stealing and dying over a measly game system, no press is bad press in Sony's eyes. It gets people talking about the system and wanting to know why people would risk their lives for it. Yeah, selling the systems on Ebay doesn't look too great either, but the system got sold didn't it? That's what matters to them, and I'm sure they are snickering at the idiots that are completely overpaying for a system that at this point, is not worth buying. The bigger disappointment is aside from Resistance Fall of Man and Marvel Ultimate Alliance, the rest of the launch games suck, and the games have not been selling that well either. Also, because we don't know if the Blu-Ray will stick around, they run the risk of looking stupid on that front too. One month, doesn't mean that Sony's out of it, and yeah they are losing right now, but that doesn't mean they will be losing a year from now. Sony doesn't really care about how it starts so long as it finishes on top, and that's what people are gonna remember. If at the end of the day, Sony is the leader, it is what counts. Also, Sony can take solace in the fact that even though their PSP has sucked it up, their PS2 is still outselling the rest of the new systems.
3. Biggest News Story of the Month
Jordan "Ogre" Williams:Launch Week. Seriously, just pick a story. Be it people getting shot for PS3's or TRIFORCE in line for a Wii.
David Redkey:Gears of War Something finally topped Halo 2 on XBL, and All I can say is…THANK GOD! It is even more surprising since Gears multiplayer options leave a little to be desired, I Wonder how long this game will keep that up?
Damian Sarcuni:PS3 crimes and riots I said it before, IT'S JUST A GAME PEOPLE! Stop the madness!
Joshua Richey:PS3 and Wii launch Two very different consoles, two different results, the PS3 was only able to launch 400,000 consoles, which didn't even meet pre-sales in a lot of cases. Meanwhile, the Wii launches and is embraced by the gaming community.
Vincent Chiucchi:IDG's Gaming Expo Okay seriously, I think we all know about the console launches and idiot Wii users, so I'm going to say what I believe is the SECOND biggest news of the month: IDG's Gamepro Expo (or whatever the final name winds up being). Ever since E3 was greatly downsized, many people were trying to become the "next E3", and from the looks of things, IDG's event is the best candidate to claim that title.
Sean McCabe:Console Launches The two big console launches of course. We only get these kinds of stories once every 5 years, so this was a pretty big deal. If I have to be specific, I'll pick the drive-by shooting at the PS3 launch. Who would have thought a piece of hardware could send an entire civilization into a crazed frenzy?
Will Scott:Console Launches Nothing overshadows the console launches, nothing.
Steve McHugh:Console Launches No matter how well or badly this went it was easily the biggest story of the last month. The Wii selling out, and people getting shot after stealing a PS3. It all seems a little surreal.
Adam Smith: PS3 and Wii Launches Simply put, this is everything that is wrong with gaming today in a nut shell. I'm absolutely disgusted with the whole situation.
Ramon Aranda:PS3 Robberies Not only did a guy get shot for his PS3s, but one of the muggers ended up being shot and killed by police days later.
Tommy Coloma:Politicians aligning themselves with the ESRB I think that politicians are finally realizing that many gamers now have the ability to vote. It appears that they know that they can't fool gamers the way they were able to fool their parents. Gamers that were around when Mortal Kombat caused a stir in the 90s, know full well that many of the "concerns" politicians voiced at that time were complete bullshit. Hopefully, these people will start to focus on something else when they need to get their names in the news come election time.
Caleb Newby:Sony's PS3 Launch and Nintendo's Wii Launch There's nothing more I can add to this that hasn't been said many, many times. A nice secondary story would be the massive success of Gears of War in game sales as well as spiking the use of Xbox Live.
Sean Garmer:Console Launches Really there is not much to add. Wii had a wonderful launch where everything sold out. Sony may have sold it's systems, but the games didn't. Not to mention, at the moment, Nintendo is actually making a profit on their systems, unlike Sony.
4. Which Next-Gen system would you recommend buying?
Jordan "Ogre" Williams:Nintendo Wii It is cheap, it comes with a game, and from what I am seeing Virtual Console is pretty much whooping ass. Although, chances are slim that you'll find one.
David Redkey:XBOX 360 The Wii and the PS3 have ONLY one quality game. X-box 360 has Gears of War, Ghost Recon, Rainbow Six: Vegas, Oblivion, Call of Duty 2 and 3…just a lot of really good games right now. Sony has Resistance: Fall of Man (which IMO is the best launch title I've played period) and the Wii has Twilight Princess (which is good…but not the best. I wonder what people would think of this game if it wasn't a "Zelda" game…hmmm…) and beyond that…nothing substantial for a few months. On a side note: Microsoft, at this time, has the MOST RPG's coming out next year…Mistwalker, Tri-Ace, and even Idea Factory are going to be releasing some RPG-goodness for Microsoft's system. What a turn of events.
Damian Sarcuni:Nintendo Wii Not because it is better, but rather because its cheaper and you are less likely to get trampled by hooligans while reaching for the box.
Joshua Richey:XBOX 360 The Wii is innovative and fun, but at the end of the day it's all about the games. People want games with amazing graphics, and they want a console whose future is so bright, that you're going to need shades. In that regard, the Xbox 360 is the best way to go. 2007, is going to be a huge year for the console, with titles such as Grand Theft Auto IV, Halo 3, Lost Planet, and Half-Life: Episode 2 being released. Their online network is still untouchable by the competition.
Vincent Chiucchi:Nintendo Wii I can't say PS3 because what are the odds that you're going to get this system without paying thousands on eBay for launch games that aren't REALLY good? The Xbox 360 is a close second because Gears of War came out and it's almost trumping Halo 2 in every way, plus you can find this console REALLY easy since it's a year old, but I'm going with the Wii because it's not that hard to find and the launch line-up is awesome. Besides Zelda, you also have Rayman, Trauma Center, DBZ, and Madden, all good games. It is also cheap, not hard to find, and a great launch line-up. What more could you ask for (besides a better wrist strap)?
Theo Fraser:Nintendo Wii You, simply do not know what you are missing until you try it out for yourself. If you even have a slight, remote interest in the console, please do yourself the favor of playing it somehow, someway, be it at a friend's house or at one of the Nintendo Fusion tour events; you NEED to experience it for yourself.
Sean McCabe:XBOX 360 To be fair, I can only give a recommendation for something I have actually experienced. Sure, I will be buying the Wii, and I'm sure I'll wind up loving it and recommending it to everyone and his dog. Until then, I can only really talk about the 360. Has some issues with a lack of specific game genres, but overall, it's a good console with even better long term prospects.
Shawn Struck:Nintendo Wii Personally, I'm trying to get a Wii for my wife. Even the pack in game looks like a lot of fun, and the much lower price point is very appealing to us both. WE can't buy what we can't afford after all.
Will Scott:XBOX 360 The system seems to really be hitting its stride. While the Wii is a close second, nothing can quite match the promise in the 360's upcoming release.
Steve McHugh:XBOX 360 No offense to Nintendo as they seem to have a great system but there's only one game worth getting for it at the moment. The PS3 launch games are anemic at best whilst the 360 just seems to be getting stronger. With Gears of War, Viva Piñata, FEAR all out within the last month and Lost Planet, Bioshock, and mass effect coming up soon it's an easy pick. Oh and did you see the Halo 3 trailer? Holy crap.
Adam Smith:XBOX 360 Even though I bought a Wii at launch, the 360 has a stronger line-up then everything else at the moment. If you're buying a Wii or a PS3, you're buying for (largely) potential. With a 360, you're buying for what's out right now. Ask me again in six months though once the other two are on the market for a bit and have some compelling games released for them besides Zelda and Resistance.
Ramon Aranda:Nintendo Wii and XBOX 360 together For the price of both an Xbox 360 and a Nintendo Wii, you can forgo a PS3 and enjoy the hell out of your Christmas.
Tommy Coloma:None I don't recommend any of them. The PS2 and the DS are the systems to get this holiday season. However, if you must have one, go with the Xbox 360. The system is cheaper (you most likely won't be getting a Wii or PS3 at retail prices), there are more games, and the online component is miles above what Sony and Nintendo are currently offering. Oh yeah! You can walk into any electronics store and pick one up without any problems.
Caleb Newby:XBOX 360 If you're reading this you are most likely an avid gamer, to which the answer would be the Xbox 360. More titles than the other two but more importantly, more quality and variety. But if you're looking for something different for your family of friends that don't traditionally like to hunker down and kill zombies and aliens, grab a Wii.
Sean Garmer:XBOX 360 or Nintendo Wii I think it depends on what kind of person you are trying to buy for this holiday season. If you are buying a system for your small child, want a party system, or looking for the cheapest thing, then get the Wii. Wii is not a kiddie system by any means but it does have lots of games that appeal to them, and some that appeal to others in your family. If your child is big into shooters and like to assume the normal gaming position of sitting down, not to mention they are big into graphics, get them a XBOX 360. Also, the XBOX 360 may cost 150 dollars more than the Wii, but it has a huge library of games available right now, and it is easier to find. The Wii has a very bright future and about five games that would please just about anyone. It's really up to the gamer you are buying for, but I don't think either one would be a bad gift for someone this season.
5. Classic Game of the Month:
David Redkey:Super Street Fighter 2 Turbo Ahh one of the greatest SF's of all time (Alpha 3 holds top spot for me) and you can easily pick it up in Capcom's new retro collection.
Damian Sarcuni:Super Street Fighter 2 Turbo The tutorials on Capcom Classics Collection vol.2 have me thinking about this game in a whole new way.
Joshua Richey:Elf Bowling (PC) I don't think anything says Christmas quite like it.
Vincent Chiucchi:Sonic the Hedgehog The classic Sonic the Hedgehog. After reading Shawn Struck's report and finding that video which shows why Sonic has been forever ruined, why not play the game of the same name but plays WAY better? By now, you can find this on a collection disk, the GBA remake, or the Virtual Console.
Theo Fraser:Sonic the Hedgehog or Super Mario 64 It's got to be something from the Virtual Console catalogue, hasn't it? Younger peeps who weren't around in Sonic's heyday absolutely MUST check out his original outing, as it is the epitome of classic gaming. Need I really say anything about Super Mario 64? If this doesn't show up on your Wii Channels before the year is out, you need your brain surgically removed for me to use as a football, because you obviously have no use for it.
Sean McCabe:Legend of Zelda Yep, that ought to be everyone's first Virtual Console purchase unless they already own the game in some format. A timeless classic, and useless 411 trivia, the very first game to be featured as an official part of The Retrospective.
Shawn Struck:Bonk's Adventure It's now available on the Virtual Console.
Will Scott:Warcraft II In honor of the upcoming Burning Crusade expansion pack, I submit this.
Steve McHugh:Gears of War It may not be considered a classic yet but watch in awe as the gaming public now gets a bunch of games using cover and the Roddie Cam. Most of which will pale next to the might of GoW.
Adam Smith:Bonk's Adventure and Bomberman It's all about the Turbographix 16 as far as I'm concerned. Like most people, I never owned one of these bad boys back in the day. I have played a ton of Bomberman though so it was interesting to check out where the franchise started on the Virtual Console. Additionally, I've always wanted to try out Bonk, and I'm happy to say it doesn't disappoint.
Ramon Aranda:Sonic the Hedgehog I never quite got to play it as a kid as I was anti-SEGA, but now thanks to the Virtual Console I can relive my childhood days the way it should be.
Tommy Coloma:Blaster Master (NES) One of my favorites. This was a game that forced players to block off a chunk of their day ahead of time if they wanted to beat it. The graphics were great. The music was also some of the best on the system. Make your way to level 3 and tell me you don't like that stage's music. I dare you! The game is made up of two parts. One part is a side scroller which had you driving a tank called SOPHIA the 3rd. You can jump, shoot, and use rockets and lightning. It's hard to explain, but you can actually FEEL the jumps (try it and see for yourself). The other part was a top-down shooter where you get to control Jason (the main character). Each level has a boss that, when defeated, leaves behind an upgrade for Sophia which is needed to get to the next level. Some of the upgrades include stronger cannons, the ability to drive on walls, and the ability to hover! Even with the pause glitch this game was a bitch to beat (sorry, it doesn't count if you use an emulator and save states). Want an older game with good graphics, excellent music, and high difficulty? This is it.
Caleb Newby:Suikoden I A great RPG for the PS1. I'd say Suikoden II but good luck finding that for cheap.
Sean Garmer:Vagrant Story (PS1) An underrated RPG with a great story that resembles FFXII in some ways, and that's because some of the guys that worked on this game, also worked on FFXII. It has one of the weirdest battle systems I've ever seen, but it actually functions rather well. Good luck finding it on Ebay, it's a true classic in the RPG world.
6. Currently Gaming:
Jordan "Ogre" Williams: Final Fantasy III DS, Gears of War, Guitar Hero II, Metal Slug Advance.
David Redkey: Resistance: Fall of Man, Gears of War, Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, Final Fantasy III, Final Fantasy XII, Marvel: Ultimate Alliance, Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops (the surprisingly fun) Star Trek: Tactical Assault
Damian Sarcuni: Need For Speed Carbon. Winter is fast approaching here in the big apple, and that means I have to cover up the old 2nd gen RX7 and do my tuning virtually for awhile.
Joshua Richey: Gears of War. I keep saying it, and I'm going to continue to keep saying it: Gears of War is one of the most addicting games that you'll ever play.
Vincent Chiucchi: Meteos (DS). This game reminds me of Tetris Attack which is why I'm currently playing this game, not to mention that I'm waiting for my Wii and Guitar Hero II to arrive under the tree.
Theo Fraser: I've finally nearly 100% completed Final Fantasy 7. Joy. I completed Resident Evil 1 (the GC remake) the other week, and FEAR a few weeks before that as well. Apart from that, I'm still on Animal Crossing every day, and I've had a bit of an RPG fetish which has been quenched thanks to Skies of Arcadia Legends (GC).
Sean McCabe: Fire Pro Returns, Garou: Mark of the Wolves, Last Blade Collection, Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner
I am in 2D gaming Nirvana. Fire Pro Returns is just fucking awesome, and I need to get on a review of it soon proclaiming it the God of wrestling games (what with it really being the God of wrestling games). Garou is to me the only fighting game finer and more timeless than Streetfighter 2 (and it didn't need 50 variations either) and Last Blade are just truly awesome, highly technical weapon fighting games, kinda like Bushido Blade but not quite so realistic. And in 2D. The last game is the only 3D game I've been playing as of late, and it's a very unique RPG, with great real time combat, a whimsical setting and demons. Yes, Demons > all. Well known fact.
Shawn Struck: Well, playing games for fun is a kinda of alien concept to me, though I have managed to squeeze in a little Mortal Kombat: Armegeddon time, and I beat Rocket Slime while in an ER waiting room.
Will Scott: Marvel Ultimate Alliance, again, I still love this game.
Steve McHugh: Apart from GoW, I'm playing God of War too as I never spent much time with it. Also playing FF3 when I get a chance, and FF7, which is actually quite an odd experience.
Adam Smith: Well I've been playing a ton of stuff recently. Beyond the stuff for review, I've been involved with Zelda, Elite Beat Agents, Smackdown vs Raw 07, Godzilla: Save the Earth, Yoshi's Island DS, Wii Sports, Trauma Center, and DBZ: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 (the sleeper hit of the Wii launch). It's been a very good, expensive month in gaming for me.
Ramon Aranda: The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, Wii Sports, Elite Beat Agents, Gears of War, Dead Rising, Starfox DS and Company of Heroes.
Tommy Coloma: Final Fantasy XII – This game is a lot longer than I expected it to be but that's ok - it's fun to play.
Super Robot Taisen: Original Generation 2 – This is the first strategy game that I've ever gotten into, it's also fun to play and it has an interesting story to boot!
Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin: 2D Castlevania? Hell yeah!
Phantasy Star Universe: I'm getting the most out of my subscription before I cancel it.
Caleb Newby: Gears of War. Beat it on casual and hardcore, working on insane. Oh, and fine tuning my multiplayer skills for when clan [411] comes to a game near you.
Sean Garmer: I've been playing a lot of different stuff this month including: Grandia III, FFXII, FF 3, Vagrant Story, FIFA 07, SmackDown vs. RAW 2007, Wii Sports, and Marvel Ultimate Alliance.
The Last Minute Holiday Buyer's Guide Where you will find something for everyone this holiday season.
Jordan "Ogre" Williams: "It's simple mindless fun for the whole family! Well...not for the whole family because a bit of it IS scary...but it's simple and mindless!"
Joshua Richey: "Don't you just hate Christmas shopping? You go to the Mall, wait in lines, and hear bratty kids that cry because they can't have a toy right now... it sort of makes you want to go off on some sort of killing spree, doesn't it? Well friends Dead Rising is your answer. In this game, you get to run around the mall, looking and finding innovative ways to kill zombies. Brilliant!"
Sean McCabe: "I would question its ability to last, however, for as long as it does last, this game is freaking awesome. Zombie chopping is just so much fun, and the game has a unique structure."
Will Scott: "One of the best games this year. It's surprisingly deep yet it's able to be played in short bursts. It actually, in some weird way, FEELS next gen. The sheer numbers presented on the screen are awesome. Plus...zombies. Yeah"
Steve McHugh: "It's ambitious and fun to play. Shame without a HDTV you won't be able to read the writing but on the upside you get to play bowling with Zombies so it's a give and take situation."
Caleb Newby: "I didn't get into it quite as much as I thought I would, but it's still a very fun game. Just because it didn't get me going means nothing, it sure has excited most others though."
Zelda: Twilight Princess (Wii and Gamecube, Nintendo.)
Theo Fraser: "That's a no-brainer. It's Zelda, and it's a launch title. Treasure the gift that Nintendo have given you this Christmas."
Steve McHugh: "meet the new Zelda it's much like the old one. Actually, that's no bad thing as 3D Zelda's have all been excellent, so I expect this one is too."
Adam Smith: "It is a gigantic game that is right up there with any other game made in the past ten years, it's that good."
Caleb Newby: "I have yet to play Zelda but the reports are in and it sounds to be a superior launch title, definitely the game to grab for the Wii right now."
David Redkey: "I just couldn't get enough of this game. It is totally worth it. I've played at least 120 hours across multiple platforms (that just tells you how much I love the game...or I just really have no life. hmmm...)"
Vincent Chiucchi: "It's like X-Men Legends, except with heroes who are way more popular to use then Jubilee. Unfortunately, you can not play as the Juggernaut...bitch."
Will Scott: "This is my favorite game this year, from a geeky standpoint. A huge cast of characters, a serviceable storyline, and awesome gameplay put this one head and shoulders above the X-Men Legends games."
Caleb Newby: "Like X-men Legends except… better. Some good unlockables, and perfect to play with a few buddies."
Sean Garmer: "I enjoyed this game, even playing it by myself I found the gameplay extremely engaging. 20 different Marvel characters that all play in a unique style with their own powers. The story is deep and adding a few friends can keep you playing for hours. It is terrific fun for everyone."
Damian Sarcuni: "The good/evil system will attract you and the rest will keep you coming back for more."
Theo Fraser: "I was skeptical at first, because Chaos Theory did little to improve the franchise, but it seems Double Agent is a big step in the right direction, tweaking various control aspects and fixing some of the faults/issues found in previous games. If you want to spend your Christmas creeping around dark prison cells, look no further than Splinter Cell: Double Agent, available on all next-gen systems."
Steve McHugh: "The best Splinter Cell game ever. It has a great story and wonderful graphics."
Vincent Chiucchi: "It's exactly like school except you don't need to waste 7 hours a day doing work that doesn't even show up on your damn tests anyway, plus unless you have serious mental issues, it won't do what certain protestors say it will."
Sean Garmer: "What an awesome game. The art and design is totally unique, the gameplay is fun and innovative at the same time. I even loved the story, also getting to play as a wolf is one of the coolest things ever. Did I mention it's a PS2 game yet? This is my game of the year hands down."
Scarface: The World is Yours (PS2, XBOX, PC, PS3, XBOX 360, Vivendi/Radical Games)
Joshua Richey: "Scarface. Are you dreading that inevitable discussion with your children where you are asked to explain things such as drugs, sex, and violence? Well, don't you worry, Uncle Tony Montana is here to offer his assistance. In Scarface, your children will learn how to bribe the po-po, they'll learn how much a gram of cocaine goes for on the streets, and they'll learn new and innovative ways to use the F word. Everybody wins."
Jordan "Ogre" Williams: "Take Grand Theft Auto, make it better in almost every way, don't spill your hot coffee, and BAM. You have Saint's Row. THQ CAN make good games!"
Sean McCabe: "With Sega seemingly unable to make decent Sonic games anymore, it is up to their new IP's to keep them from basically going under creatively. It is easy to think just from the title or some screenshots that Yakuza is basically a Japanese take on GTA. Considering how much I hate GTA, I see that as an insult more than anything else. This game is the result if Shenmue fought Streets of Rage in a dark alley in Tokyo's Red Light district. Now go buy it."
Jordan "Ogre" Williams: "Man, if you are tired of sci fi shooters that have a fairly thin story just to give you an excuse to blow shit up...you might not like this game. But if you are tired of FPS games not letting you use active reloading, active cover, and some of the best CO-OP Split Screen play EVER. You want Gears of War."
David Redkey: "Awesome graphics and Co-op is excellent"
Damian Sarcuni: "You can't go wrong with Gears of War. Look out for clan [411] baby, we're comin' to your town!"
Joshua Richey: "Not only is this the best 'shooter' of the year, it's also the best game of the year, period."
Vincent Chiucchi: "This game is being played more then Halo 2. Something's got to be good about it."
Theo Fraser: "Would somebody like to send me their Xbox 360 so I can play this? No? Worth a try though. Literally everywhere I go, I hear amazing things about this game. And as good as it looks in videos, we all know that, that doesn't even compare to when you're actually in front of the game playing the damn thing."
Will Scott: "I've heard nothing bad about this game, and second-hand reports place it as a worthy competitor to Halo."
Steve McHugh: "Best game this year hands down. If you don't own a 360 this should make you go get one."
Adam Smith: "Flat out fantastic game."
Caleb Newby: "Seriously, this will probably win the high majority of "Game of the Year" awards. While I could rant and rave, instead I'm just going to direct you to what everyone else has said, and get back to playing it myself.
Resistance Fall of Man (PS3, Sony & Insomniac Games)
David Redkey: "Awesome graphics and 40 player online battles (with no lag...take that XBOX LIVE!)"
Joshua Richey: "It may not be as good as Gears of War, but it looks like the only PS3 game that actually looks good."
Theo Fraser: "The best of the bunch from the PS3 launch, and the only one that really appeals to me. The PS3 launch is stacked with arcadey sports games, so if you want something serious, Resistance: FoM is your only real option. Good job it is a pretty fine game!"
Steve McHugh: "The only PS3 launch game that had any interest for me. It looks very good and has some nice weaponry to use."
Caleb Newby: "Closest thing Sony has to a system seller, a good FPS with some innovative and unique weaponry."
Theo Fraser: "Basically, if you like your shoot ‘em ups, buy a 360. You just can't go wrong there. FEAR was great on the PC, if a little repetitive, and it maintains its high standard on Microsoft's home console. It's also somewhat of a more original take on the genre, so this should be high up on all FPS fan's Most Wanted lists."
Sean McCabe: "I think Steve McHugh said it best. BEST. SHOTGUN. EVER. The game also offers great graphics, AI, though it's not at all scary in my book. As an action based shooter, it is incredibly fun and atmospheric."
Steve McHugh: "Best FPS on the 360 and a damn scary game too when you play it by yourself with the lights off."
Will Scott: "Maybe not exactly as good as hyped, but it's definitely something different. It is a good game to pick up, especially to round out your 360's library."
Steve McHugh: "Not perfect by any means but still a good game that does something genuinely new."
Other Games the Staff selected in this Genre
Condemned: Criminal Origins (XBOX 360 & PC, SEGA)
Sean McCabe: "This game has just went on to the 360 Classics range, and is also really cheap for the PC, not so much a shooter as a first person bludgeon-em-up. Totally should only ever be played by adults, but this game is, unlike FEAR, freaking scary. Story is whack, but then that's par for the course these days. Great stuff."
David Redkey: "Square finally did away with turn based all together...After playing FFXII then playing FFIII, I realized how redundant and boring leveling up the old battle systems truly were..."
Sean McCabe: "The only Final Fantasy besides IX and Tactics you'll ever hear me recommend in any way, shape or form. It is an awesome game, which is good. Since I predict that due to the impossibility of there being two good Final Fantasies in a row, XIII will suck. So enjoy a good FF while you can."
Sean Garmer: "My favorite FF is IX and at first I didn't think I was going to like XII because of the MMO type gameplay. However, I was able to weather that aspect to learn to enjoy the game and become engaged by the terrific characters and compelling storyline. If you need something to do at home during your winter break, this game is long enough to meet your needs. Square Enix has done it again by taking something from another one of it's game and perfecting it for this wonderful Final Fantasy series. If you are a FF or RPG fan this is one game you don't want to miss."
Vincent Chiucchi: "Sequel to the Disney/Square-Enix f'd up flipper baby that lots of people loved. Get it before Disney throws it into their imaginary vault."
Theo Fraser: "I always wrote off the Kingdom Hearts series (can it still be a series if there's only 2 games in it? Yes, I did say 2, the GBA game never happened) as a crummy Disney RPG-Lite, but after playing KHII the other day, I really warmed to it. Any fans of Final Fantasy, especially 7, 8 and 9, need to play this, as it features cameos from some of the main FF cast. In the case of FF7, there's a whole storyline branch focusing on Cloud and Sephiroth, which was pretty darn cool. I could see it getting a bit tiring, as the combat system seems to rely too heavily on the hack-and-slash formula, and your thumbs will hate you after you've stabbed the X button for the millionth time, but as recent RPGs go, this gets a hearty recommendation from me. I love a good plot in my games, and it definitely delivers in spades."
Will Scott: "Spiffy as all get out. Ignore the detractors and the Disney label - this is pure RPG gold. This captures the sense of fun I felt when I played games as a kid, and that's pretty impressive to me."
Sean Garmer "I love this game and this series. At first, I didn't know what to think of the Square/Disney mash-up. As a person that loves Disney and Final Fantasy it wasn't hard to be drawn in, however, it was Sora, Kairi, and Riku that immersed me in the game. The 2nd one is a sequel that expands on everything that made the original greatness. If you have a child, a Disney freak, or just an RPG lover they should try this game. Trust me, they will enjoy every minute of this adventure."
Jordan "Ogre" Williams: "Oh man, I am still reeling over the comments that all of the new booty are saying about this game. "IT'S TOO HARD! STORY IS SO THIN". Oh, I pity you who grew up with only Final Fantasy 7 and onward. Do yourself a favor and pick this up to know just how hard Final Fantasy used to be."
Theo Fraser: "Dear Santa, PLEASE CAN I HAVE THIS FOR CHRISTMAS? I'LL BE A GOOD BOY NEXT YEAR! Seriously, if there was a UK launch party for FF3 on the DS, I would strongly consider a drive-by shooting to get my hands on a copy. I really, really want this. And you should too."
Will Scott: "Come on! Like you can pass this baby up, even the hardcore anti-FF folks seem to like this gem. It brings back a bit of gamer credibility to a machine that's becoming more and more known for the "Touch Generation" games."
Caleb Newby: "A good FF remade for the DS. Go get it."
Sean Garmer "As someone who owns every game in the FF canon (except XI because I don't consider it a FF game, I'm sorry MMO's are not regular RPG's.) I couldn't wait to get my hands on this one. If you are a fan of old school RPG's this one is for you. This is a big flashback to the way RPG's used to be, lots of leveling up, difficult fights, and strategy. The job system also adds a little bit of diversity to the gameplay, which helps keep it fresh. I liked it a lot, it may not fit the ‘on the go' mold of the DS, but it is one of the best Role-Players you'll find on the little system."
Steve McHugh: "Another great game with hundreds of hours of game and a fairly interesting story. And you'll play it through more then once too because the gameplay is so tight."
Caleb Newby: "A top notch RPG for the 360 with nonlinear gameplay and a good degree of customization options."
Contact (Nintendo DS, Atlus)
Vincent Chiucchi: "An under the radar RPG with a quirkyness very similar to the cult hit Earthbound. Breaking 4th Walls = Funny."
Adam Smith: "a very mysterious game that is well worth checking out."
Sean McCabe: "A thoroughly charming RPG. This is probably the best RPG available for the DS at the moment."
Adam Smith: "if you're looking for some conventional turn based goodness, this is it."
Suikoden V (PS2, Konami)
Sean McCabe: "rich, albeit slow-starting game. You recruit 108 characters, build your castle, fight a war, and become the leader of a country. Just like all the Suikoden games then. It never stops being cool."
Caleb Newby: "Hey you, Mr. Final Fantasy fan. Already done with FFXII? With the extra time you've got, why not check out one of the best kept secrets in the world of RPGs? It's easily worth your time."
Shadow Hearts: Covenant (PS2, Midway)
Sean McCabe: "I think I covered why these games are the greatest RPGs of all time, collectively if not individually, that honor goes to this game, Covenant."
Steve McHugh: "One of the best RPG's on the PS2 with a great story and a fantastic battle system."
Other Games the Staff picked in this Genre:
Grandia III (PS2, Square-Enix, Game Arts)
Sean Garmer: "This game may not be as long as a Final Fantasy or another type of RPG, but it has one of the best battle systems ever. You will be looking for enemies to fight in this game, just to play with the battle system. The story is your typical run of the mill ‘save the world' deal, but the characters are unique and entertaining."
Shin Megami Tensei Devil Summoner: Raidou Kuzonoha versus the Soulless Army (PS2, Atlus)
Sean McCabe: "bit of a long winded name maybe, but this is a fun action RPG, the first of its kind in the long running MegaTen series. You play the 14th in a line of Devil Summoners, and using your talents must prevent a General in the Japanese army from raising hell... literally. I dig the visual style... reminds me of Go Nagai's style."
Sports Games:
NBA 2K7 (XBOX 360, PS2, PS3, XBOX)
David Redkey: "Hands down the best basketball game and easily beats the ‘by the numbers' approach to Madden.
Joshua Richey: "Wow. I didn't realize the terrible state of sports games until just now. I think that NBA 2K7 wins by default, as it is the only decent one out there."
Vincent Chiucchi: "To me, Madden never really changes that much outside what year to call it, but now that the Wii has you waving your arms to pass the ball and stuff, DAMN is that a big difference."
Adam Smith: "Really reinvents what football is all about."
Steve McHugh: "For the first time ever EA almost got it right. This is the best FIFA ever and if they keep this up it could become a genuine alternative to Pro Evo."
Sean Garmer: "A downright fun game of footie, it has 520 club teams, a fantastic manager mode, and is awesome with a few friends in the mix. If you want some fast paced soccer action that isn't bogged down with complete realism get this game over Pro Evolution."
WWE SmackDown vs. RAW 2007 (PS2, XBOX 360, PSP, THQ/Yukes)
I haven't heard of anyone getting shot in a Wii line. It seems to be converting people of all demographics into video gamers, the Virtual Console launches have stabilized, there are some pretty compelling games for it right out of the gate, and the low price point has resulted in banner year sales. So while Sony and Microsoft are losing money with each console sold, Nintendo's actually making a profit on each sale.
