Living LIVE 03.07.09 - The 12th Edition

Posted by Trace Aber on 03.07.2009

It's bizarro week here at Living LIVE as the Watchmen proves to be a bad game while the community games are...good!? Check it out in this week's column!



I'd like to start off this week by letting everyone know that starting next week, Living LIVE will be posted on Mondays, not Saturdays, from then on. I personally think it's better because who doesn't want to start off their Monday by reading about online games? Nobody - that's who.

As announced last week, Microsoft has brought back their "Deals of the Week." Last week it was Braid, and this week it's Ninja Gaiden 2 downloadable content, "Mission Mode." Normally priced at 800MP, XBox LIVE Gold Members can now purchase it for 560MP. Granted, this is the weirdest amount of points to spend on something, but if you're into Ninja Gaiden, this is a great deal.

LIVE is also starting "The Days of Arcade" promotion. Basically, they are going to be releasing some (supposedly) high-profile arcade games in the next coming weeks, and one week they will be releasing two games in one week! While I don't agree with Microsoft that these games are "blockbusters," it's a step in the right direction. Below are the titles to be released over the next few weeks;

The Dishwasher: Dead Samurai
Flock
Hasbro Family Game Night
Lode Runner
Outrun Online Arcade
Puzzle Quest: Galactrix
UNO Rush

Lastly, be sure to vote in the Second Annual Xbox LIVE Arcade Awards. You can do this on your Xbox from within NXE, and remember that each nominated game has a demo for you to get your first impressions in.

I'm Trace Aber and this is Living LIVE

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

Watchmen: The End is Nigh (1,600MP)
I do not know much about the Watchmen, but I do know that after I write this column I am going to see it. While going through the arcade games on LIVE I was surprised to see this game posted as there has been zero advertisment (as far as I know) for this game and when I saw the 1,600MP price tag I was even more surprised. Clearly this was going to be a badass game if they are charging as much as they are for The Lost and the Damned. Well...it should have been.


There is something refreshing about being able to knee people in the back.

The presentation of this game is exceptional. It looks and sounds incredible and only proves to further trick you into believing you made a smart purchase. But, then...something terrible happens. You start playing the game. Sure, when you start out you think it is pretty cool - the moves look awesome and there is a sense of satisifaction in beating random people up. Thirty minutes into it you begin to realize this is all you will be doing - that you have been had. There's really not much more to say about this game - it takes the term "beat 'em up" way too literally and that is all you do - and it doesn't even keep your interest the entire time. All I can say is that I hope the movie is better because this was a huge disappointment.
Recommendation: Download the demo and look at the pretty visuals - but don't you dare play it.

Community Games

Mithra - Episode 1, Chapter 1 (400MP)
Mithra is an action-adventure game that is being released in episodes and chapters, and it seems like, if proven to be a success, this will be a long series of games. Anyways, the demo does not last very long (maybe a couple minutes at most), which leads me to believe the full version is rather short. Anyways, based off what little I have played, it seems as though you are Tag, a weird looking guy who is trapped in some sort of room. There is a manhole in the room and a voice coming from said manhole, and the demo requires you to get him out. So, you look around the room, find a screwdriver and a pipe then open the manhole up. Out comes a little blob thing who tells you that you, him, and the whole planet are in grave danger, but before he tells you anymore he needs you to throw him into a vent to escape the room you're in. Then...the demo ends. That's it.

Graphically, the game looks great for a community game and good in general. Everything is smooth, clear, and well-rendered. Everything has a futuristic look to it and there are some interesting color techniques used in the game. I did not get to hear much of the sound, but the voices seemed well-acted, if corny. Again, I am making exceptions for community games as you pretty much have to. This game looks promising and could be a solid series if they take the time, but the demo tells me very little. I can't recommend purchasing it based off the demo, but some people may be able to determine if it is there style of game right away. I'm still on the fence. If anyone has any further information about the gameplay, please let me know.
Recommendation: Unsure.

Neon Paddles (200MP)
Neon Paddles is the latest in a slew of Pong-remakes, but a good one at that. Everyone understands the basic concepts of Pong so I am not going to waste time in explaining those mechanics, though I will waste time in explaining how I will not be wasting time. Instead, let's focus on what it is that Neon Paddles adds to Pong. For starters, there are "power moves" you can do that are special shots that can throw the opponent off guard. You can take a straight shot at high speeds or shoot at an angle they won't see coming. There are also a whole slew of sliders that you can modify to make each game you play different, ranging from the size of your paddles to having double paddles (controlling a paddle per analog stick) to how much energy you need to use your special attacks. This is a nice feature that adds to an old genre. The background is fully 3D and reminds me of a toned-down DDR screen - just a lot of stuff going on that only half-relates to what is actually going on. The game does support 4-players, though it sadly lacks an online function. While Neon Paddles does not set the world on fire in the slightest, it is a fun diversion that is, most importantly, cheap. If you have an extra 200MP laying around, I don't think you would be disappointed if you spent it on Neon Paddles. Well, as long as you like Neon Pong, that is.
Recommendation: Pick up.

Jackpot Stadium (200MP)
Jackpot Stadium is a combination of pinball and pong, which I shall now refer to as Pongball. I'm going to patent that, so don't get any ideas. Anyways, in this game of Pongball you play as what appears to be a bumpber from a pinball machine and attempt to hit the other side of the stage (dodging and avoiding the other bumper) with a pinball. This sounds pretty simple, and it is, but that is why it works so well. This game is just fun. At certain points multiple pinballs will appear on the screen and no matter how much you are losing by it is anybody's game at that point. I came back from a 300 point lead and somehow won.


This is just a very confusing image to look at.

There is not a lot of depth to the game as one might expect (not a lot of room), but the main game in itself is still very fun. This game is best when played against friends as it can get competitive fast. This game realizes it is basic and takes pleasure in knowing that - what it does offer is extremely fun and will give you plenty of entertainment for 200MP.
Recommendation: Get it.

ZP2K9 (200MP)
ZP2K9 is a fast-paced multiplayer-sidescroller in which you and up to ten other players (or bots in offline mode) battle on huge multi-platformed levels. Featuring 13 weapons, including 6 grenade types, there is plenty to keep your desire to destroy things at bay. The action is always fast-paced and varied due to your ability to walk on walls and ledges, which make for interesting strategy opprotunities. The game features four modes including deathmatch, team deathmatch, capture the flag, and king of the hill. The game is not an in-depth fighter, but playing this game with a group of friends or on LIVE makes for a very fun and mindless brawling game that will keep you entertained. The game can be kind of tricky at first as there is a lot going on but with a little practice you will be winning matches in no time. And it's only 200MP to boot!
Recommendation: Get it.

Welcome To Mexico (200MP)


Yes, they actually expect someone to pay money for this.

Recommendation: Avoid.

Game Demos

The Chronicles of Riddick: Dark Athena
Be Riddick: the most ruthless criminal in the universe. In his latest chronicle, Riddick has been captured by The Dark Athena, a mercenary ship hellbent on eliminating him once and for all. Using his intense hand-to-hand combat skills, explosive firepower, and lethal stealth, Riddick must shut down the maniacal Captain Revas and her deadly crew. When Riddick steps into the darkness, no one is safe.

WWE Legends of Wrestlemania
In this demo, play as Stone Cold Steve Austin and defeat The Rock in their historic WrestleMania XV match. A video package shows highlights of their legendary rivalry and you must complete objectives during the match to relive history. Also play as Hulk Hogan or Andre the Giant with Bobby Heenan in an exhibition match in the WrestleMania III arena.



Wheelman
This demo contains a sample of the Wheelman story mode, plus 2 out of 105 side missions available in the full game.

Game Add-Ons

Rock Band
"Lenny" by Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble (160MP)
"I'm Cryin'" by Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble (160MP)
"Dirty Pool" by Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble (160MP)
"Marry Had a Little Lamb" by Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble (160MP)
"Rude Mood" by Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble (160MP)
"Testify" by Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble (160MP)
"Tell Me" by Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble (160MP)
"Texas Flood" by Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble (160MP)
"Pride and Joy" by Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble (160MP)
"Love Struck Baby" by Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble (160MP)

Burnout Paraidse
Paradise Toy Collection (1000MP)
Paradise Toy Car Collection 1 (480MP)
Toy Hunter Cavalry (160MP)

Prince of Persia
Epilogue (800MP)

Skate 2
San Van Classic Pack (400MP)

LIVE Activity for week of February 23rd

Xbox 360 Top Live Titles
1 Call of Duty: WaW
2 Halo 3
3 Call of Duty 4
4 Gears of War 2
5 GTA IV
6 Left 4 Dead
7 STREET FIGHTER IV
8 FIFA 09
9 Halo Wars Demo
10 Guitar Hero World Tour

Top Arcade Titles
1 Braid
2 3 on 3 NHL(TM) Arcade
3 Castle Crashers
4 Worms
5 UNOŽ
6 Super Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix
7 A Kingdom for Keflings
8 Death Tank
9 Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3
10 The Maw

Original Xbox Top Live Titles
1 Halo 2
2 Star Wars: Battlfrnt 2
3 Counter-Strike
4 Fable
5 Splinter Cell Chaos
6 Conker: Live Reloaded
7 Doom 3
8 Star Wars: Battlefront
9 Call of Duty 3
10 Burnout 3

Top Community Games
1 RC-AirSim
2 Aquarium HD
3 Bowling X
4 Miner Dig Deep
5 Rumble Massage
6 Remote Masseuse
7 DrumKit
8 TV Calibration
9 bricks4ever
10 Golden Royal Blackjack

Video Marketplace

The Hamiltons (360MP, 240MP)
The Hamiltons seem to be the picture-perfect American family. They are hardworking community members; giving to their local charities, attending town hall meetings and always respectful of their neighbors... except for the fact that they usually end up killing them.

Ulli Lommel's Black Dahlia (NA, 240MP)
Horror master Ulli Lommel is back with a terrifying tale of a copycat killer in Los Angeles. A young rookie cop and his team discover dismembered female bodies in L.A. similar to the Black Dahlia cold case from 1947. A serial killer seems to be copying the brutal massacre of 1940s Hollywood starlet Betty Short - The Black Dahlia. Ultimately his investigation leads him to a frightening lair of death and torture, all part of a terrifying fantasy that the killer is trying to bring to life...

Haunted Highway (NA, 240MP)
He knew he was traveling a dangerous road, but he had no idea a torrid affair would lead this far. Now photographer Greg Ross is speeding down a mysterious dark, deserted highway, haunted by terrifying apparitions at every turn. Is he imagining things--or are vengeful, supernatural forces out to drive him insane? One thing he knows for sure: his wife lies dead in the trunk and she's not talking...yet.

Religulous (480MP, 320MP)
Religulous makes a pilgrimage across the globe with political humorist and author Bill Maher ("Real Time With Bill Maher," "Politically Incorrect") as he opens our mind to the ultimate taboo: questioning religion. Known for his astute analytical skills, irreverent wit and commitment to never pulling a punch, Maher brings his characteristic honesty and skepticism to an unusual religious journey.

Small Town Folk (NA, 320MP)
High atop a scenic hillside in Grockleton stands Beesley Manor, governed by the ominous Landlord and his gallery of rogues. Always on the lookout for females to carry on the Beesley name, the Landlord keeps a watchful eye over his land and brutally dispatches those outsiders who dare set foot upon it. When three improbable heroes stumble onto his property, the quiet beauty of the countryside suddenly erupts in a torrent of blood and violence in a menacing hunt and chase for his future bride.

Dead Noon (NA, 320MP)
In this shoot 'em up western horror tale, ancient demons, walking skeletons and cowboy zombies join forces to take the law down in a blaze of hellfire and brimstone. With the powers of hell at his disposal, Frank, a blood-thirsty outlaw from the old west, is resurrected to seek his revenge on the present day town of Weston. As the past collides with the present, Sheriff Logan Kane, his incompetent younger brother, Stuart, and sexy gun shop owner Grace will have to fight a posse of the undead to save the town and rescue Logan's new bride from a fate worse than death.

Wonder Woman (480MP, 320MP)
Beautiful Amazon princess Wonder Woman leaves paradise Island - her lush tropical island home - to travel to America, where, disguised as Diana Prince, uses her golden belt, which imbues her with astonishing strength, her bullet-deflecting bracelets, a golden lasso that dispels dishonesty and an invisible supersonic plane to combat evil in a harsh urban landscape. Featuring the voices of Golden Globe-winner Keri Russell ("August Rush," "Waitress"), Nathan Fillion ("Serenity," "Waitress"), Academy Award nominee Virginia Madsen ("Sideways," "The Number 23"), and Rosario Dawson ("Sin City," "Grindhouse: Death Proof").

The Gravedancers (360MP, 240MP)
A group of friends' lives are invaded by a trio of hostile ghosts after they engage in a drunken bout of gravedancing during a wake for an old chum.

How to Lose Friends and Alienate People (480MP, 320MP)
A liberal, someone anarchistic fame-hating intellectual lands a job at a conservative New York Magazine to shake things up. Although he starts as an outsider, he finds success through the confidence of a starlet and an affair with a colleague.

Cannibal (NA, 240MP)
A young man falls in love at first sight with a stunning redhead he spots in the university cafeteria, but their ensuing affair is riddled with bloodcurdling details. Foremost among these is the woman's beauty secret, which entails the consumption of human flesh. This stylized horror film won the prize for Best Canadian First Feature at the Toronto International Film Festival.

Vicky Cristina Barcelona (480MP, 320MP)
Just as New York City was the backdrop in Woody Allen's "Manhattan," the stunning city of Barcelona is the setting for the romantic adventures of Vicky and Cristina. These two young Americans spend a summer in Spain and meet a flamboyant artist (Javier Bardem) and his beautiful but insane ex-wife (Penelope Cruz). Vicky (Rebecca Hall) is straight-laced and about to be married. Cristina (Scarlett Johansson) is a sexually adventurous free spirit. When they all become amorously entangled, the results can only be described as chaotic.

Slaughterhouse-Five (NA, 240MP)
Kurt Vonnegut, Jr.'s classic novel comes to life in this haunting and darkly humorous film from acclaimed director George Roy Hill. Billy Pilgrim (Michael Sacks) is an ordinary World War II soldier with one major exception: he has mysteriously become unstuck in time. Billy goes on an uncontrollable trip back and forth from his birth in New York to life on a distant planet and back again to the horrors of the 1945 fire-bombing of Dresden. This dazzling and thought-provoking drama co-stars Ron Leibman and Valerie Perrine.

Events

Monday: Music Monday - DanceDance Revolution UNIVERSE 3

Tuesday: Family Game Night - Sonic's Ultimate Genesis Collection

Wednesday: GamerchiX Ladies Night - Midnight Club: LA

Thursday: Co-Op Night - Burnout Paradise

Friday: Co-Op Night - Gears of War 2

Weekend: Community Playdate - ScrawlFX.com

Weekend: Xbox All-Nighter: Resident Evil 5

Top Ten Xbox-Live Arcade Games Everyone Should Own
I love playing the random, quirky, and classic games that Xbox Live has to offer. Obviously, like everyone else, I have my own quirks about me that form the types of videogames I like. So, each week, I will be revealing a new game to my list of XBLA games that everyone should own. Or, at the very least, try out. These are in no particular order, by the way.

Week 8: Castle Crashers (1200MP)
Castle Crashers, for me, was one of those games that came out of nowhere. When it first came out I really wasn't all that much into video games, especially the online services. Sure, I played and bought the occasional game, but never enough to be writing a weekly column about it. Castle Crashers was one of the arcade games that got me really appreciating the possibilities of Xbox LIVE. Up until that point most of the games I was purchasing were remakes of old classics.


If you do not want to play this game after viewing this image you clearly have no soul.

Castle Crashers is a four-player co-op (and Xbox LIVE-enabled) side-scrolling beat 'em up game with some RPG elements mixed in. You can select a slew of characters, each with their own specials and combos. As you progress throughout the game you can improve and upgrade your specials and combos. Throughout the game you will also find new weapons, which range from funny to awesome, and each weapon in the game alters your character's stats a little. Another item you will find throughout the game are animal orbs. These furry friends help you out in your quest by doing a multitude of tasks such as attacking nearby enemies, helping you find health items, and even leveling up faster. And, in keeping with the RPG style of gameplay, the character you decide to play as will increase their stats as you gain experience points. What is really great about this is you can take the characters, weapons, and animal orbs you gained in your previous games and start new games with all of the items and a different combination of characters. These features are what gives Castle Crashers its replayability.

Besides the main game (which will take you a few good hours to complete), Castle Crashers also features two mini-games. The first one is pretty useless and is called, "All You Can Quaff." It is basically a button-mashing game in which you attempt to eat the most amount of food in the time given. I suppose this can be fun with friends, but this is clearly the weakest part of the game. The other mode is Arena where you fight wave after wave of enemies in a fight for survival. There is a similar mode while playing the story portion, but instead of fightnig waves of enemies you fight all of the controlled players.


When you are playing as the enemies it can be pretty difficult to tell who you are.

As far as the story, it is pretty basic. You are one of four knights (though there are more playable characters) trying to chase down a wizard and save the four princesses. Nothing that will set the world on fire, exactly, but it gets the job done. The levels are spilt up into a world map where you can select which levels you want to play and also go to arenas, shops, and other locations. Every few levels there is a boss and they tend to give you a run for your money unless you have a competent team by your side. When you resuce one of the princesses you and any other surviving characters will then duel against one another to get the kiss from the girl and a few bonus experience points. There is rarely a dull moment in Castle Crashers.

The 1,200MP price tag is a little steep but I honestly believe you are getting your money's worth. This game has provided me with hours of fun and everytime you introduce it to a new friend you have another play-through and it will always be fun because you will always find something new. You are doing yourself a disservice if you don't pick this up ASAP.

Closing
That's all for the 12th edition of Living LIVE. If you have any questions or comments be sure to post them and I'll respond as quickly as posible. Thanks for reading!

Screenshots
All 10 Living LIVE Screenshots