B3yond the Report 06.24.08
Posted by Mark Salmela on 06.24.2008
This week I give my predictions as to what Sony will unveil at this years E3 2008 conference. Sony gave a great performance at E3 last year and I think they’re about to do it again. Also, a new feature debuts, as well as all of the news you’ve come to love. Final Fantasy 13, FF Versus 13, MGS4, Fatal Inertia EX, Little Big Planet, Resident Evil 5, Call of Duty: World at War, and more in this jam packed edition of B3yond the Report!
Welcome back everybody, how has everyone's week been? My week has been terrific, and it felt good not having to constantly pump out Metal Gear features or reviews. While I've come to realize that I'll probably never be able to take a week off, at least I'm back to one column a week. Actually scratch that, I just found out I've got to write up a review on Fatal Inertia EX, so hopefully that'll be up tomorrow.
Hey, with the release of Metal Gear Solid 4 and the mention of playing Calling to the Night while playing MGS4 last week I figured I'd put up a copy for everyone to listen to while reading the news. Enjoy one of the finest Metal Gear songs ever, Calling to the Night *thanks Tommy for the site*.
Pre-heated to 450 degrees, it's B3yond the News of the Week~!
Production on Final Fantasy Versus 13 halted, then not halted?
A nasty little rumor spread like wildfire this past week, as sources had stated that the latest edition of Famitsu contained an interview with Square Enix where it was stated that production on Final Fantasy Versus 13 had been halted in order to finish Final Fantasy 13. Thankfully, Square Enix has come out and stated that this was untrue, and that Final Fantasy Versus 13 was still in production. The truth is that production on Versus 13 is moving along at a faster pace than FF13 *allegedly* so that when members of Versus 13 don't have anything to do that they come over and help the FF13 team *this part is true*. Since both companies are owned by Square Enix and know a good deal about making RPG's I can see the development teams sharing members in order to make sure both games come out in a timely manner. With that said I'd be shocked if either game made a 2008 release *both are supposed to be worldwide releases*, but it's good to see that neither title has been cancelled *a lot of people were upset at the original story*.
Also, Square Enix has finally confirmed that Final Fantasy 13 will be making an appearance at E3. While I have my doubts that the game will be playable, we should at least expect a new trailer as well as information. Square Enix also teased that a release date for Final Fantasy 13 would be revealed at E3, but I wouldn't expect anything other than "coming 2009" to be announced. Square Enix will also have their own private event back in Japan at the end of July, but sadly the event will be entirely closed to the public and it's likely that no news from that event will surface until near the Tokyo Game Show *which I think is in November this year*.
Guess what? MGS4 has been a success so far, who knew? Reports have been coming in that MGS4 has sold over half a million units in Japan on it's first week, as well as toping the UK charts *although exact numbers are still unknown*. While the US numbers are also unknown, the game has sold incredibly well, and as far as I know the MGS4 PS3 bundle has been sold out across the country. Japanese PS3 sales also surged, as the PS3 outsold the Wii as well as every other console in Japan, selling over 70,000 units on it's first week alone *a huge number*.
MGS4 has also become the second highest rated console exclusive title for this generation*95% on Megacritic*, sitting only behind Super Mario Galaxy *97%* *BioShock is not an exclusive*. I personally rated MGS4 a perfect ten *which can be found here*, and think it's one of the best games ever created. If you have not picked up MGS4, you really need to.
In addition to the Metal Gear Online Database *which I'll discuss in the PlayStation Store update*, Konami's Ryan Payton also talked about what MGS5 could possibly be about. While nothing is confirmed, Payton hinted that MGS5 could be a prequel, and continue Naked Snake's journey to becoming Big Boss. Not to gloat or anything, but that is what I predicted at the end of my MGS4 countdown *which can be found here*. Any who, don't expect to actually hear anything about MGS5 for a long time, as MGS4 just came out.
As most of you are probably aware, PlayStation 3 firmware 2.36 went live last week. While details are scarce as to exactly what it did, as far as we know it was mostly about "improving stability" within the PlayStation 3. As far as I'm concerned that meant making sure MGS4 runs on all PS3's *a select group of people were having trouble playing MGS4* and making sure that nothing goes wrong when PlayStation 3 firmware 2.40 goes live.
For those who are unaware, PlayStation 3 firmware 2.40 has finally been confirmed to contain the long-awaited in-game cross media bar *XMB*. PS3 users will finally be able to add in their own custom soundtrack to their games, as well as see their PSN friends list in game and access their messages. This is something both PSP and Xbox 360 users have been enjoying for a while now, so it's good to see that Sony is finally about to catch up. I personally get a lot of messages while playing games, and it sucks that I have to completely exit whatever game I'm currently playing if I want to access it. But as I said Sony has finally confirmed that PlayStation 3 firmware 2.40 will include both the in-game cross media bar access as well as Trophy support. Trophies are basically the equivalent of Achievement points on the 360, and is a system that will run alongside Accomplishments, PS3's version of Achievements. While it appears that the Trophy system being implemented in 2.40 is the very basic of what Sony plans to do with them *Home will include the Trophy Room*, it's good to see that at least the groundwork is being laid for later on. Sony will probably release 2.40 sometime near the end of July or August. I expect to hear a final release date at E3.
Oh PlayStation Store, why can't we just get along? Bah I have no reason to complain, the PlayStation Store update this week was respectable. The highlight of the week was definitely Fatal Inertia EX, the future combat racing game from Koei. The game isn't bad, but it definitely isn't WipeOut *speaking of which if I remember correctly WipeOut HD should be out sometime in July*. Since Fatal Inertia EX is $30 I recommend trying out the free demo before considering a full purchase. I will also have a review of Fatal Inertia EX on either Wednesday or Thursday, depending on my free time.
Besides Fatal Inertia EX the PlayStation Store also received the Metal Gear Online Database, which is cooler than it sounds. Sure, technically it's just a supped-out encyclopedia, but if you're a big Metal Gear fan like myself than this is truly a god send. Not to mention that it's free and I recommend everyone download the Metal Gear Online Database from the PlayStation Store. MGS4 fans won't regret it.
Besides the Database and the racing game we were also treated to demos of Hail to the Chimp *party game*, NCAA Football 09 *college football*, and Commando 3 *twin-sticks shooter*. I've stated before that Commando 3 is a pretty awesome game, so thankfully there's now a demo for those who haven't already bought the full game. Hail to the Chimp is a pretty mediocre party game, but since I think it's a disc title and not a PSN title *I could be wrong* I'll probably recommend a pass. Not to mention the game is by that Gamecock company *newsflash, they're not funny* and you can pass on Hail to the Chimp. There was also the typical set of trailers and Rock Band update, but at this point do you really need me to tell you that?
Credit: Sony
B3yond the Tabloids!
In a recent podcast, Media Molecule founder Mark Healey talked about a few of the new features in Little Big Planet. There will be a policing system for "inappropriate" levels on Little Big Planet. Players will simply have to press a button to take a screenshot and upload it to the "higher ups" at Media Molecule where they can remove inappropriate levels. If you want to create a level that's inappropriate, Mark recommends making the level private and only sending it to your friends. So basically, you can create a level filled with male genitals, but if someone finds it inappropriate than they can have it removed. Also, there will be a single player storyline, for those who don't want to create and download user levels. There will also be little sackboy plushies released this September to compliment the game.
Here's another rumor that we can put to bed, as Resident Evil 5 will have a simultaneous release on both the PS3 and 360. Rumors had been swirling that both Sony and Microsoft were looking to snag the title as a timed exclusive, but neither will be granted exclusivity. Capcom has confirmed that RE5 will be released simultaneously on both the PS3 and 360, and my guess is that it'll be released in February 2009.
LucasArts has restated that they will be attending E3 this year, and that they will have more information on upcoming titles such as Star Wars: The Force Unleashed. While I'm still not sure on the status of LucasArts as a developer *they've recently laid off over 100 employees and could be releasing more* I do know that they are working on Star Wars Battlefront 3 as well as a new Indiana Jones game *not the Lego one*.
EA has finally recognized that they have been "torturing" the Need for Speed developers, since for the past 8 years they've had to constantly rush a new title onto store shelves each holiday season. Well now EA has effectively split the Need for Speed team into 2, and each team will rotate years putting out a new Need for Speed game *meaning 24 month development cycles instead of 12*. This is basically what Call of Duty does now with Infinity Ward and Treyarch switching years, so hopefully this means Need for Speed games won't suck as much as usual *the last few especially were terrible*. With that said, look out for Need for Speed: Undercover this holiday season.
The PlayStation Patrol truck is at it again. For those unaware the PlayStation Patrol truck is kind of a cross country special hosted by Sony where they stop in select cities and allow people to come and try out their latest titles. Highlighting Sony's tour this summer is Little Big Planet, so if the PlayStation Patrol truck is stopping near your city you can have the chance to test out Little Big Planet before its September release. You can find out more info on the PlayStation Patrol Truck here.
David Reeves from Sony London made a bold statement this past week, claiming that Sony is working on a new DRM scheme for the future *probably the PS4* and that "full game downloads" are the future. Both Microsoft and Sony pretty much share the same opinion that downloadable services such as the PSN and XBLA will be the future, and that disc-based games will be a thing of the past. Although I don't know how that could possibly happen until our download speeds improve *a game like MGS4 is 50 GB* and can overtake the size of future games. What I mean by that is download speeds will not only have to be able to catch up to games like MGS4 that are 50 GB, but they'll have to be able to match the next generation of video games, which could be much larger than 50 GB *CD based games were 700 MB, DVD 4 GB, Blu-Ray 50 GB, what's next?*. While countries like South Korea have download speeds that are far greater than ours, it's still going to need to be adapted around the world and improved for whatever the next generation demands. Also, I'm sure retail giants like Gamestop wouldn't go down without a fight if Microsoft and Sony were to try such a thing that would put Gamestop out of business.
This isn't really Sony news, but apparently Microsoft is about to announce a new game called On Lips which will be similar to Sony's SingStar. I honestly don't know what Microsoft is thinking, since there's no way On Lips could compete with SingStar. Maybe Microsoft doesn't realize this, but Sony is one of the largest music corporations in the world, and I don't think they'll be too excited to sign up for On Lips. Sony can use its leverage in the music industry to sign tons of talent for SingStar, while Microsoft doesn't have the same leverage. Microsoft flopped pretty badly with Scene It last year *rip-off of Sony's Buzz*, and it looks like they're about to do it again with On Lips.
B3yond the Cinema!
Here' the debut trailer for Call of Duty: World at War. Using a modified version of the COD4 engine, COD: World at War will be released later this year on pretty much every console still in use. It's looking pretty good so far.
Here's the latest Team Fortress 2 video, "Meet the Sniper". It's pretty solid.
Finally, here's the latest from Sonic Unleashed. I refuse to let myself fall for another Sonic game again, but at least this one won't have hedgehog-on-human relations.
The One Man Water Cooler~!
Well, it's time for the One Man Water Cooler once again. With the industry being a little light on news this week *typically happens right before E3*, I figured this week I would give my predictions as to what Sony plans to show/say at E3. Be aware that I have no direct links to Sony, and that these are predictions to what I actually think will happen, and not what I would like to have happen. I think we all could easily agree that we'd like Sony to say "here are 200 brand new exclusives that will be out this year" and say "the PS3 is now $199" but we all know that won't happen. So here are my realistic picks as to what E3 will detail for Sony.
1.) New Final Fantasy 13 and Versus 13 trailers will be shown at E3 during the Sony keynote speech, followed by Kaz Hirai announcing a 2009 worldwide release date for FF13.
2.) inFamous, the PS3 action title by Sucker Punch will be highlighted and be given a holiday 2008 release date *I think it'll be one of Sony's biggest showings*. inFamous has been in development for a while now and so far we've heard almost nothing about it. I've got to imagine that the game is progressing and maybe even nearing completion. My guess is an October or December 2008 release date.
3.) Sony will not unveil a new motion controller at E3. I BEG YOU SONY DO NOT PUT OUT A NEW MOTION CONTROLLER FOR THE PS3! I've stated before that I find it highly unlikely that a motion controller on the PS3 side would be announced *although I could see Microsoft doing it*, and if Sony did unveil a motion controller than it would immediately be called a Wii rip-off and be met with critical failure. After the failure of SIXAXIS Sony has no reason to try to put out another motion controller, so hopefully they've learned that Sony needs to put out good, exclusive titles, and not be "Mii too". Thankfully as far as I know all of Sony's development studios are working on other projects, so I can't imagine Sony would unveil a new motion controller since there's no one around to support it at the moment.
4.) Afrika will be detailed and be given a release date for the PS3. Sony has announced an August 29 release date for Japan, but Americans and Europeans have been left in the dark for Afrika, so hopefully at E3 Sony will announce the worldwide release date for Afrika. My guess would be September 2008.
5.) A release date for the PS3 2.40 firmware will be announced. Firmware 2.40 will include the highly anticipated in-game cross media bar, as well as the PS3 Trophy system. While Sony has announced that 2.40 is coming "soon" I expect to hear final details at E3.
6.) More details will be given regarding Home, including the release date for the open Beta. We've known for a while now that Home's open Beta will hit this fall, but I'm sure Sony will reaffirm a release date as well as give details as to how people can partake in the Beta.
7.) Teaser trailers will be shown for God of War 3 and Gran Turismo 5, although I predict that very little will be said about either game other than "coming 2009 exclusively to PS3".
8.) Sony will highlight their PS3 online program, claiming that the PSN will remain free, and that it will be "a great place to connect with gamers". Sony will then highlight future online PSN titles such as Wipeout HD, Pixel Junk Eden, SOCOM Confrontation, Siren, Tanks Wars *the game where you draw a tank and the PSEye will read it*, and Elefunk.
9.) Sony will brag about exclusive upcoming first person shooters such as Killzone 2 and Resistance 2. Sony will also brag about Little Big Planet and how it will revolutionize how gamers interact online, giving release dates for all 3 *although we know general release dates already, such as LBP in September, Resistance 2 in November, and Killzone 2 in February*. Also, an October release date will be announced for Tekken 6 *another PS3 exclusive*.
10.) Finally, Sony will finally announce what Team Ico and Naughty Dog are working on. Team Ico has been working on a new title for almost 3 years now, and I bet they'll finally be ready to show something and give a 2009 release date. Naughty Dog, developers of Uncharted: Drake's Fortune will also be at E3 to announce their next title, which I'd guess to be a PS3 Jak and Daxter title. Like Insomniac *Ratchet and Resistance*, Naughty Dog has typically put out a new title every year, so I'd guess either a late 2008/early 2009 release date for their next project *either Uncharted 2 or Jak and Daxter PS3.
While I don't work for Sony or have "inside tips", these are my predictions as to what Sony will say during E3. These keynote speeches by Microsoft, Nintendo, and Sony have typically been the highlight of the show, and I think Sony will be out in full force in order to make sure they dominate E3. I feel that Sony easily won E3 last year *Microsoft didn't really say anything while Nintendo just bragged about their media exposure* and I feel that they have enough in their basket to announce that they can once again steal the show and take E3. In fact the only reason why Sony might not say all of the above points is because they want to keep a few tricks in their sleeve in case Microsoft has a surprise announcement for August or something. Companies almost always keep a few tricks hidden away in case of an emergency.
Also, I think we will see a couple of new announced titles from Sony at E3. But since I don't know what they are or who they'd be from I can't really comment on it until it's announced *I'm talking besides Team Ico and Naughty Dog*.
And finally no, I do not think Sony will announce a price drop at E3. I also don't think we'll hear of any new PS3 bundles *although they'll be sure to brag about the success of MGS4*, or Twisted Metal PS3 *Eat Sleep Play doesn't have enough people to rush out another title so soon after last years PS2 Twisted Metal*. Also, since SOCOM Confrontation will be at E3 I still think that Sony will keep Zipper's new PS3 SOCOM title under wraps until the end of the year. Disagree? Agree? Have something to say that you think I missed and Sony will say at E3? Feel free to drop me a comment below, I always read what you guys have to say. Next week I might discuss what I'd like to see Sony say, or talk about what Microsoft or Nintendo could announce at E3. I'm not too excited about any 3rd party publishers right now; Sony's pretty much my main focus.
B3yond the Mail!
Thanks to B3yond the Superfan Eric for the new banners. This guy rocks and I'm glad to finally get rid of that crappy banner I used to have. Buzz Lightyear, you've next!
To dman (Guest) : Maybe you're the one who should be doing his research before telling me how the PS3 is doing against the 360. For the week of June 9th to June 15th in Japan the 360 sold 2,163 units compared to the PS3's 75,311 units *that's over 36 TIMES more*. Don't forget that this is only one week, and while the gap isn't usually this big the PS3 absolutely crushes the 360 week after week in Japan. The PS3 doesn't need to win America to beat the 360. The PS3 is outselling the 360 by enormous margins in Japan and is outselling the 360 in Europe. So no, it won't take 18 years or whatever ridiculous "I pulled this out of thin air" number you said it would take for the PS3 to beat the 360.
To Joe Roche (Guest): You know, I've never got the argument "Microsoft doesn't care about Japanese sales". What's wrong with the yen? Are you trying to say Microsoft doesn't like money? With the current state of the American dollar you'd think Microsoft would try to go after Europe and Japan, just like allegedly Nintendo is withholding American consoles for Europe due to the weak dollar.
To Taylor (Guest): The Wii hasn't even sold 30 million consoles, so the current console race is far from over. It's not like the 120 million PS2 owners who haven't upgraded to the current gen just said "You know what? I think I'm done with video games". The Wii has an enormous lead and doesn't appear to be slowing down, but it's not a run-a-way win for the Wii, at least not yet.
To Barbecued Ribs (Guest): Do you still think MGS4 isn't moving consoles? Hell, it's easier right now to find a Wii than it is the MGS4 PS3 bundle.
As I said before I always read what you guys send me and I appreciate the comments, even if they're sometimes filled with hate. If you wanted a response to your comment and I didn't respond I apologize.
The Open Airwaves with David R!
The following is a new feature where former 411 writer David R. can express his opinions onto the world. The following opinion does not necessarily reflect that of B3yond the Report writer Mark Salmela or 411mania. It is simply an alternative view that I've given an open platform in my column. Enjoy.
We have a heated battle for second place (the Wii is the runaway winner at this point). One side, we have the "Mandatory Install" Playstation 3. On the other side, we have the Xbox "Red Ring of Death" 360. This is still one heated battle. Volley after volley is being exchanged between the two heavy hitters. Who will come out victorious?
Something really bothers me. I have to get this off my chest. It will really help matters. Damn public opinion because I really need to get this weight off my chest.
I have something to say about the "bass ackwards" thinking of some 360 supporters. They only think that winning Europe/NA is important. Last time I checked, the 360 is only beating the PS3 by 5-6 million. The 360 is BARELY holding onto a lead in Europe. The only place it really has a lead is in NA. Maybe that has to do with the people of Appalachia ****ing their cousins between bouts of playing Halo 3.
About Halo 3, someone actually thought that the game is a "10 out of 10?" I guess the person in question cannot accept gaming from circa 2007/2008. Does it seem like the person in question is stuck in 2004? You have to be stuck in 2004 if you consider those antiquated character models to be a thing of beauty.
People claim that true graphical advancement is made in the United States. I guess they did not receive the memo that Metal Gear Solid 4 comes from Japan. That is a ****slap to CliffyB and company. I would take character models that represent human figures over play-doh inspired character models. *cough*Gears of War*cough, cough*
Who would think that CliffyB was superior to Hideo Kojima? Maybe the people from Appalachia would think that. It seems that fool needs to come out with a chainsaw to make an entrance.
Thanks to David R. for the submission and let me/us know what you think of the new feature.
The 411mania Empire~!
The Full Circle by Joe Roche. Remember young Roche, Garnett was a member of the Timberwolves before the Celtics, so as far as I'm concerned you're welcome. Nintendophiles by Theo Fraser. The PC Centric Extravaganza by Chris Evans. The Select and Start News by Vincent Chiucchi. Yeah, keep bringing me up thinking you'll get the hits Vince… I have important news to talk about, you *and Joe* can keep talking about all that worthless stuff… The 10th Hour by Derek Robbins. NBA Jam is one of the greatest games ever made. And why have so many people gotten a hard-on for MVP 05 in recent months? It's a baseball game folks. It is no where near as fun as NBA Jam or NFL Blitz.
Signing Off!
Well I don't know about you guys, but NBA Jam and NFL Blitz are two of my favorite arcade games ever. I've been playing NBA Jam with my friends all week, and it's been awesome. It's also weird how right about the same time I get back into playing NBA Jam, two of 411's writers mention the game in their columns this week *although actually I've been in an NBA Jam craze for a couple of weeks now*. Any who, in more great news, I just ordered a new laptop off of Newegg.com. While it's left me completely broke *there goes my chances of getting Bad Company*, I've been in need of a new computer for about a year now. My current desktop's power supply is shot and I've been too cheap to fix it *it's amazing the computer still works, although it takes 10 years to start up*, so this new laptop will be a personal godsend. If you're wondering what I got, I purchased this Asus on Newegg.com. It's a beast tech wise at a pretty affordable price and has gotten positive reviews. Plus my college has now decided to make laptops a requirement so I didn't have the option of getting a new desktop *which I would have preferred*. Any who enough personal gloating, look for my review of Fatal Inertia EX later in the week, and B3yond the Report will be back next Tuesday as always. Cya in 7!
LMAO. MGS4 is moving the PS3. These haters just don't want to face the truth. Awesome work as always Mark. The only column that really matters here in 411 games.
Posted By: Snake211 (Guest) on June 23, 2008 at 11:12 PM
"LMAO. MGS4 is moving the PS3. These haters just don't want to face the
truth. Awesome work as always Mark. The only column that really
matters here in 411 games."
That's a blatant lie and you know it. The best column will always be The Hall Of Shame. Always.
Posted By: Supro (Guest) on June 24, 2008 at 12:24 AM
David R? Oh Mark, looks like you are having to come up with crazy gimmicks to beat out the Full Circle.
No,no, I kid...
You are right about NBA Jam and Blitz, those would have definetely topped my sports games list.
Posted By: Drew Robbins (Guest) on June 24, 2008 at 01:02 AM
God, I hope they go back to basics for this new Final Fantasy. I am so violently fucking sick of programming my fighters in 12. What a disgrace.
Anyway, what's this Final Fantasy Versus thing? What's that all about?
Posted By: Vallejo (Guest) on June 24, 2008 at 01:15 AM
Mark I'm with you - it was stupid to ignore the Japanese and European games market for as long as they did, however I think Microsoft has finally realized that it would be a good idea to understand the full breadth of the gaming world.
Posted By: Joe Roche (Guest) on June 24, 2008 at 08:23 AM
So you think Sony being rated most innovative is worthless? Good to know.
Posted By: Vincent Chiucchi (Registered) on June 24, 2008 at 09:55 AM
Shame 411Mania's big gaming column isn't platform agnostic. Does EVERYONE in gaming journalism HAVE to be a fanboy for one console or another? It is possible to write intelligently about sales reports and trends in the industry, own all the systems and to genuinely ROOT for quality titles on ANY system to prosper.
Ah well... 411 might as well have three columns from fanboys then. When can I expect the Wii/X360 fanboy articles to launch?
Posted By: Brad Lascelle (Guest) on June 24, 2008 at 10:18 AM
I think one title that is missing from your list is God of War 3. I look for sony to bring out the big guns by showing off this game.
Posted By: calem (Guest) on June 24, 2008 at 11:23 AM
"Shame 411Mania's big gaming column isn't platform agnostic. Does
EVERYONE in gaming journalism HAVE to be a fanboy for one console or
another? It is possible to write intelligently about sales reports
and trends in the industry, own all the systems and to genuinely ROOT
for quality titles on ANY system to prosper."
People dont have to be so ambiguous about their thoughts and feelings just to please a general mass of readers. I mean, I dont even own a PS3, but I read this article because I like the PS3, one day I would like to get one. I have a lot of positive feelings about Sony's product now as well. However, I DO own a Wii and I love the hell out of it! Does that make me a fan boy too, just because when I talk to my friends I might talk more in-depth about the Wii? Just because 411 has select articles doesnt mean that there is some rule or force field that prevents us from reading them all. I mean, seriously, you are MAJORLY coming across like Agent Smith with those kind of comments.
Posted By: daniel (Guest) on June 24, 2008 at 01:20 PM
Doesn't 411 have two columns devoted to 360 (Achievement Unlocked and the Full Circle report)? Brad, you need to share what you're smoking. That must be some good ****. In addition, they have a Nintendo-centric column as well. You must be new.
Posted By: Dave (Guest) on June 24, 2008 at 01:51 PM
Dude, I am so not a fan of the new feature. David R has never been able to give his opinion without trashing anybody with a 360. If you want to have that feature you at least need to get someone who has an objective view to do it, not somebody blinded by a pure hatred of anything not made by Sony. He states the only reason the 360 has a lead is because people in Appalachia fuck their cousins? How is that even a viable excuse? Where exactly did he research that little gem? I have no problem with Dave going off in the comments section, because whether what he says is relevant to a particular piece or not, that is what the comments section is designed for. I am a fan of video games. I could give a shit less which system a game comes out for, unless I don't own the system, then I think about it. There is nothing a sony fan can say to convert a Microsoft fan, and vice versa.
For the love of god people, play what you want. Nobody is dumber for buying an xbox instead of a PS3, nobody is dumber for purchasing a PS3, instead of an xbox. let it go!
Also, you intro David R's segment as an alternative view. Shouldn't it be an alternative view of things you have touched on in the column? Not just random 360 bashing?
Mark, I know you are a Sony fan, and you know the difference between fan, and fanboy. You are not afraid to call Sony out if they do something stupid. Accordingly, you are not afraid to compliment Microsoft on doing something good. David R, I feel, is incapable of showing the same nuetrality that you sometimes exercise.
That said, if you are just trying to get clicks up on your column, David may do that in the short term, but it may ultimately drive away some of your more objective readers who don't buy into that fanboy shit.
Come to think of it... Is David your "Million Dollar Mania"?
I am open to reading what David has to say, provided he can do it without insulting me for owning a 360.
Posted By: Toddo (Registered) on June 24, 2008 at 01:54 PM
What is the difference between FF:13 and FF:VS.13?
Posted By: LM (Guest) on June 24, 2008 at 05:30 PM
What exactly is the difference between FF13, and FFV13?
Posted By: Toddo (Guest) on June 24, 2008 at 05:34 PM
According to SE, FF Versus XIII is an independent story that stars totally different characters - apparently it's not a sequel, or even directly related to, any other FF game.
There's a different art style, going for more of a gritty realism than FF games typically have.
So they're doing two FF RPG's, only one is more of an action-based game with a darker setting. At least that's the word so far.
Posted By: Rod Oracheski (Registered) on June 24, 2008 at 06:10 PM
Look at the xbots crying over what David R said. Wake up and smell the coffee, Halo is an overrated game which i agree, inbred hicks love playing. Xbox360 has nothing but shooters in its library, hence it attract retards who curse and swear on XBL. PS3 does all these things and so much more. And it has the support of the best developer in the world, Hideo Kojima, who knows better than to develop a malfunctioning, storage deprived M$ made POS. Cry more xbots, Sony will dominate gaming as it should soon.
Posted By: Snake211 (Guest) on June 24, 2008 at 10:00 PM
Actually Toddo, you ARE dumb for buying the 360. Its unreliable, it breaks down easily, it backed the wrong media device (HD-DVD, more like HD-DUD LOL), it does not have blu-ray, its HDD is small and propietary, its noisy and it has no AAA games like MGS4. (Its supposesd AAA games are either overrated, are better on the PC or overrated Western dev trash.
Posted By: Snake211 (Guest) on June 24, 2008 at 10:05 PM
And 1 more reason. Japan hates it. When the premier country of videogames (not to mention essentially the inventors of modern videogaming) hates it, you know it sucks
Posted By: Snake211 (Guest) on June 24, 2008 at 10:26 PM
"Actually Toddo, you ARE dumb for buying the 360. Its unreliable, it
breaks down easily, it backed the wrong media device (HD-DVD, more
like HD-DUD LOL), it does not have blu-ray, its HDD is small and
propietary, its noisy and it has no AAA games like MGS4. (Its
supposesd AAA games are either overrated, are better on the PC or
overrated Western dev trash."
Look, I have every system but the Wii, and I can tell you that right now the PS3 simply isn't in the 360's league. There just aren't enough games.
Oh, and I laughed at that "overrated western dev's" thing.
JAPAN IS SUPERIOR YOU GUISE! ALL HAIL NIPPON!
Posted By: Vallejo (Guest) on June 25, 2008 at 12:16 AM
"Oh, and I laughed at that "overrated western dev's" thing.
JAPAN IS SUPERIOR YOU GUISE! ALL HAIL NIPPON!"
Wow, that is very disrespectful and almost racist. Japan does make better games, memorable even, than western developers. Final Fantasy series, Street Fighter series, Mario series, Zelda Series, Metal Gear Series has proved you wrong. Americans should take a page out of Japanese honor and humility.
Posted By: Snake211 (Guest) on June 25, 2008 at 01:12 AM
Wow Snake, how articulate of you. Good for you, you called someone dumb on the internet. Everybody give the special boy a hand. Let me get one thing straight to you, you can call me dumb all you want, it doesn't bother me. My choice for buying a 360 was a personal choice, based on finances, and the games library offered by each system.
Believe me, there is a reason that I didn't get the box when it was first released. I intended to wait for the PS3, due to Smackdown, and GTA. Once those were announced to no longer be sony exclusives...along with PS3's heafty price tag, I went with the 360. To be honest, I am happy with my decision, and had always intended on buying a PS3 for the one remaining exclusive they have that I MUST have. God of War 3. So again, go ahead and call me stupid if that is what it takes to make you feel better about yourself, but the fact remains that I made a choice based on games offered, and cost effectiveness, not a console manufacturers name, or whether or not my games were made in America.
Its funny how you make this statement: "Xbox360 has nothing but shooters in its library, hence it
attract retards who curse and swear on XBL. PS3 does all these things
and so much more"
In that one sentence, you condemned XBL for juvenile antics of the players, then used it, AND SO MUCH MORE as a selling point for PSN... that doesn't make to much sense to me.
Oh, and since when did Ninja Gaiden 2 become a western developed non-AAA title? How about the plethora of Square Enix RPG's that are coming to the Xbox 360?
I may not agree with David R's methods of proving points, but at least his information is, or was at one time, factual. Yours...not so much.
On a different note, I could care less about blu-ray, or HD-DVD. My home entertainment system does not have the necessities for either at this time. Add this to the fact that I said absolutely nothing bashing blu-ray, and your argument is irrelevant to my statement. If your defense of the PS3 revolves strictly around the fact that it has blu-ray, and one great AAA title in MGS4, then I am not to worried about the system I chose. Lastly Snake211, I would like you to notice that my response was stated in a respectful manner, not insulting anyone for owning their system of choice. You might find that others will take you more serious if you try to do the same.
Since this Snake211 character apparently took my statements as a pro xbox rant, I will ask Mark and Dave if they took it the same way?
It was not my intention to fuel a fanboy debate, or anything like that, I was simply looking to offer feedback on the new segment, as you asked. I offer my humblest apologies if anything I said was misconstrued as fanboy ranting.
Posted By: Toddo (Guest) on June 25, 2008 at 01:06 PM
Well I don't believe my eyes but I might have spotted a fanboy who far surpasses David R.
I think that the PS3 is a superior system to the Xbox, but I don't think everyone who thinks to the contrary is a moron.
Also, your arguments for the PS3 always seem to come down to "It has Metal Gear Solid 4" Its great and all, but one game?
Since you are so bad at arguments, let me show you how its done...
"Actually Toddo, you ARE dumb for buying the 360. Its unreliable,
it
breaks down easily, it backed the wrong media device (HD-DVD, more
like HD-DUD LOL), it does not have blu-ray, its HDD is small and
propietary, its noisy and it has no AAA games like MGS4. (Its
supposesd AAA games are either overrated, are better on the PC or
overrated Western dev trash."
1) Wrong movie format? I thought we were talking about games here? If I want to watch movies I'd go out and buy a dvd player, not a system. Sure, Blu-ray is just a bit more detailed, but I'm not so picky that I demand the highest resolutions when I watch a movie.
2) Breaks down easy...well, ya got me there..
3)Its HDD is small compared to the PS3, because it doesn't need all that much space. You don't need space for mandatory installs.
4) No AAA games...thats in the eye of the beholder. That would be your opinion, but according to critics you are very, very wrong.
5) Western developers, you are whining about where a game comes from? Man, you really are picky!
Posted By: Drew Robbins (Guest) on June 25, 2008 at 07:38 PM
1) Wrong movie format? I thought we were talking about games here?
If I want to watch movies I'd go out and buy a dvd player, not a
system. Sure, Blu-ray is just a bit more detailed, but I'm not so
picky that I demand the highest resolutions when I watch a movie.
2) Breaks down easy...well, ya got me there..
3)Its HDD is small compared to the PS3, because it doesn't need all
that much space. You don't need space for mandatory installs.
4) No AAA games...thats in the eye of the beholder. That would be
your opinion, but according to critics you are very, very wrong.
5) Western developers, you are whining about where a game comes from?
Man, you really are picky!
1)Blu-Ray means no more disc swapping and more media space. LMAO, even in MGS4 they made fun of disc swapping, and which system has disc swapping? The 3fixme. LOL. Its not just for movies anymore kid.
2. You never had any defense on that one.
3. Installs mean no loading time. But being an xbot you think archaic methods like disc swapping and loading times are positives.
And what happens when you run out of space? Buy a $120 120gb HDD? LMAO what a joke.
4. The 360 has NO AAA exclusives. Halo 3 is overrated, its even acknowledged by a lot of people. Its infested by shooters. So what if it has quantity when its has no *drumroll* quality.
5. Yes, Japanese games are superior than western games. Think back, how many Japanese games are critically lauded and are memorable as compared to Western games? Masterpieces like Final Fantasy series, Metal Gear Series and so much more come from the mecca of videogaming itself, Japan.
With those points, i have destroyed your feeble attempts to argue with me, kid. You and Toddo can go in a corner and cry.
Posted By: Snake211 (Guest) on June 25, 2008 at 09:47 PM
Toddo, Ninja Gaiden 2, is NOT an AAA game. It flopped in most reviews as compared to the critical acclaim MGS4 which incidentally is EXCLUSIVE to the PS3.
The scraps Square Enix RPGS the 360 is getting are B list RPG's. When FFXIII and White Knight Story hits the PS3, it will obliterate them in sales and in quality. Besides, no one in Japan cares about the 360. And that's all that matters.
Posted By: Snake211 (Guest) on June 25, 2008 at 09:50 PM
"Installs mean no loading time."
Hardly, as even Metal Gear Solid 4 shows. There are still load times, they'd just be ridiculously long without the install.
Posted By: Rod Oracheski (Registered) on June 26, 2008 at 03:06 AM
Maybe Final Fantasy is the better RPG, but it does still prove that Japanese developers are working on the 360, and not just the PS3. Besides, I couldn't care less if a game I enjoy is manufactured in China, Japan, Timbuktu, or on the frickin moon. If it is fun, what does it matter?
One thing that I did find funny, is that out of all the series' you spouted off as being Japanese in origin, only two of those are Sony exclusive, and not even really that, because FF games are on the DS as well. But if those 5 series you mentioned are your idea of Japanese excellence, which I don't deny, why has there been 15,000 games in each of the series? Japanese developers beat an idea into the ground just the same as American developers do. They show to have the same ultimate motivation.... money, or yen if Japanese cash is your thing.
Halo 3 may be over-rated... OK, extremely over-rated, but that doesn't mean it is not a AAA exclusive.
Now if you will excuse me, I have to go find which corner Drew is crying in, as I am apparently supposed to join him.
Posted By: Toddo (Guest) on June 26, 2008 at 12:19 PM
Drew,
Snake, in a misguided attempt, has explained that the PS3 has a superior "movie format." Now work with me on this, replace "movie" with "media" and that is something that lends itself towards GAMES. 50 (25 on a signle) gb of data on a dual layer blu-ray dvd compared to 8.5 gb of data on a DVD-9.
50 gb minus 8.5 is 41.5 gb of data. That is a lot. To remove all the uncompressed audio, they could fit it down to four..maybe three DVD-9's. Is inferior sound a good thing?
About one game for the PS3, that is a fairy tell. You have Resistance: Fall of Man, Uncharted: Drake's Fortune, Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction, Heavenly Sword (very short...but the graphics are phenomenal (truly movie-ike experience), Ninja Gaiden Sigma (a port of an xbox game is a little behind NG2 in the graphics department), Warhawk, Unreal Tournamet 3, and others. You have the ability to PLAY all of these games online (for free).
About me being a fanboy, I have 28 games for the 360 (more since I traded some of them away), I enjoy the series, but I don't really have the drive to play it as often since I bought my PS3 in January. It will change, I know, but the PS3 has more of my interest than currently. I'm not a fanboy, I'm a frustrated gamer that has to deal with a system that breaks on a much higher rate than my other consoles (Wii, PS3, N64, PS1-slim, PS2-slim, oriignal Xbox, Gamecube). Should I bend over and take what Microsoft is selling? No! I don't enjoy CONSOLES, I enjoy GAMES. Sony has always had the games that interested me. Not saying that 360 has any games I don't like, that is ludicrious.
About the mandatory installs, not every GAME requires installs. Some of them can do fine without it. Resistance, Call of Duty 4, any sports games (that come t memory), do not require installs. It comes from the slower speed of the player on the Blu-ray. It is MUCH slower than the one in the Xbox, and the installs allow more data to be used for gameplay (except Capcom could have got away without requiring a 20+ minute install...if they were better programmers). It isn't every game, but REAL fanboys argue this point endlessly (and Sony fanboys argue their points endlessly as well). However, they fail to realize that you can upgrade your HDD to something in the 250 range...can you do that on the 360?
Unfortunately for the FPS argument made by Sony fanboys, we live in the US and KIDS like to shoot guns (even in a college/high school). Both systems have A LOT of FPS.
About the article, controversy=more readers. Time and time again has illustrated this point. However, we have pro-Microsoft guys posting in a Sony-centric article. One person even complained about their broken PS3 (which was mentioned in a previous B3Yond report).
Posted By: David (Guest) on June 26, 2008 at 10:47 PM
I'd like to thank David R. for actually presenting a decent case. I wasn't saying the PS3 has only one game, I was saying that he only uses ONE game in his arguments.
Snake..oh you...
1) Disc-swapping, which takes a maximum of a minute, is much better than an install whenever you get to a certain point in a game. Unless you are lazy.
2)First of all, I'm not praising disc-swapping and load times. And you're wrong, it doesn't mean no loading times, it means less loading times. Also, I'm not an Xbot, I hate Microsoft and everything they stand for. I like the PS3, I'm just calling your campaign against Microsoft stupid and horribly done. Oh yes, and if you run out of space on your Xbox HDD, you *might* play too many games.
3)I would say "eye of the beholder" but that just doesn't seem to mean anything to you. But you keep going back to these critics. Yes, they gave MGS4 a 10 out of 10. So that makes it AAA. Then wouldn't Halo getting a 9.5 make it AAA. Also, seems pretty exclusive to me, so I guess the 360 does have an AAA exclusive whether you think its overrated or not.
4)I'll admit that most great games come from Japan. But, just because it comes from America doesn't mean its garbage. Metroid Prime was great, Oblivion is "AAA" (as you would call it), and many more.
Posted By: Drew Robbins (Guest) on June 26, 2008 at 11:44 PM
Posted By: thedouce (Guest) on June 27, 2008 at 12:09 AM
"1) Disc-swapping, which takes a maximum of a minute, is much better than an install whenever you get to a certain point in a game. Unless you are lazy.
2)First of all, I'm not praising disc-swapping and load times. And you're wrong, it doesn't mean no loading times, it means less loading times. Also, I'm not an Xbot, I hate Microsoft and everything they stand for. I like the PS3, I'm just calling your campaign against Microsoft stupid and horribly done. Oh yes, and if you run out of space on your Xbox HDD, you *might* play too many games.
3)I would say "eye of the beholder" but that just doesn't seem to mean anything to you. But you keep going back to these critics. Yes, they gave MGS4 a 10 out of 10. So that makes it AAA. Then wouldn't Halo getting a 9.5 make it AAA. Also, seems pretty exclusive to me, so I guess the 360 does have an AAA exclusive whether you think its overrated or not.
4)I'll admit that most great games come from Japan. But, just because it comes from America doesn't mean its garbage. Metroid Prime was great, Oblivion is "AAA" (as you would call it), and many more."
1. You're saying with modern technological developments, we should STILL disc swap? That's like asking someone to bike to Russia instead of flying there. Tsk Tsk
2. You hate M$ too? Good, the rest of your points is tl;dr.
3. Halo 1 was ported to the PC, Halo 2 was ported to the PC, wanna takes bets how soon Halo 3 will be ported, hmm? So i still stand that 360 has NO AAA exclusives.
4. Oblivion was great only on the PC, all thanks to mods. The vanilla version is boring as hell and like all Western RPG's its filled with fetch quests and NO imagination at all. Any Japanese RPG is better than Oblivion.
Metroid Prime is AAA due to its Japanese development pedigree, even though it was made by Retro. Nintendo has to keep an eye on their prized title.
Once again, your arguments are paper thin at best and i have smashed them.
Good try kid.
Posted By: Snake211 (Guest) on June 27, 2008 at 06:05 AM
Uggh..I really don't feel like doing one of those list breakdowns...but I must!
1) Ok, if something is more technologically advanced we should use it. So imagine this new kind of car comes out, its really nice looking, has all these great features inside of it, but goes slow as crap. You'd rather take that then the old car that will get you to your destination faster. I know its a far-fetched situation...but I think it works.
2)Doesn't change the current situation, Halo 3 is exclusive as of this moment. Its not like the PS3 won't end up porting a few exclusives. MGS4? Yeah I know you'll say "Too much data" but I'm sure Microsoft wouldn't mind multiple discs to get that exclusive off of the PS3.
3)No, the only thing Japan provided to Prime was the basic outline for creating a Metroid game. Retro took that and turned it into a first-person adventure. They didn't need Japan's help. Personally, I hate Oblivion no matter what form it is in, but the critics that you obtain your judgement from deem it AAA, so it *must* be true.
Posted By: Drew Robbins (Guest) on June 27, 2008 at 09:11 AM
To David R: I will accept that you are not a fanboy, but I ask that you prove it by not insulting someone just because they chose xbox over PS3. if you want to call Microsoft out on their mistakes that is fine, but you cross a certain fanboy line when you tell someone who bought the 360, or someone who prefers the graphics of Gears of War to MGS, a retard for having that particular preference. I mean shit, if I like a good action movie, as opposed to a drama, that doesn't mean you are intelligent, or I am dumb, we just have different preferences in our choices.
Posted By: Toddo (Registered) on June 27, 2008 at 10:58 AM
Snake posts more and David posts less. Coincidence?
Posted By: Snake211 (Guest) on June 27, 2008 at 02:34 PM
Toddo,
Well, I respect your point. Again, I can be a bit heavy-handed sometimes. All is fair in love or war. :-D
Snake,
You are not me. You couldn't fill my jockstrap, little man. Furthermore, I wouldn't hide behind a SNAKE name or something. Hell, I use my name. That way, people will know that my words come from yours truly.
Posted By: David (Guest) on June 28, 2008 at 08:01 AM
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