411 Games Roundtable: April 2007
Posted by Sean Garmer on 04.04.2007
Check out the winners and losers of last month with the staff. We also give our thoughts on the games coming out in April. Trust me, you are going to want to read this, or you just won't be video game savvy.
APRIL 2007 Games Roundtable
Hello everyone, it is another month in video games. Sony had another release in Europe and introduced some interesting things at the GDC, was that enough for them to get the staff’s vote for winner of the month? Also, we had some key releases in March, which one is the biggest? And you don’t want to miss our look at all the games coming out this month. I think the staff is ready, and we hope you are too, because here it comes. As always, the questions come first.
Come meet the Staff participants
He likes to look at things in Retrospective and always is ready to speak his mind with some game reviews Like this one on King of Fighters XI for the PS2. Give it up for Sean McCabe
Don’t you dare make fun of Nintendo when Theo Fraser is around. He’ll make you pay for it by giving you his great news report Nintendophiles on them.
Cory Moore likes to show the best part of any video game and it’s called the Fun Factor If you miss it, especially this week’s on Dance Dance Revolution, I can’t guarantee you’ll know how to enjoy games.
411’s resident, hate master, Damian Sarcuni is also the writer of a column named Angry Gamer in the Games section, while also doing game reviews too. Don’t forget to read all about GTA IV and his thoughts on the premise, new locations, and possible controversy, in this week’s column.
Finally, no one does a comic Flashback like Steve McHugh It’s just too good to describe, you have to read it to find out. He also does retro and present reviews as well.
I’m your organizer and host of the 411 Games roundtable. I write Game Reviews for this section and a little column in the wrestling section known as the Triple Threat too. My name is Sean Garmer
1. Biggest Winner of the Month
Sean McCabe:Sony. Yep, don't worry, no need to get your eyes checked. The unveiling of Little Big Planet and Home gave them some much needed credibility. They also finally released the PS3 worldwide in March.
Theo Fraser:Sony. Yes, I’m giving this one to Sony this month. After a pretty awful 2006, and a not-so-promising start to 2007, Sony were the clear winners at the GDC earlier in the month, with the announcement of the Playstation Home, which seemed to re-assert everyone’s faith in the entertainment giant.
Cory Moore:Sony. Yeah, I admit it, Sony was the winner of the month. Sure, the European launch was lukewarm and international releases are plagued with backwards compatibility problems, but that did not stop the PS3 from setting UK sales records, plus, Sony is finally taking steps in order to fulfill the promise to be a force in all home media. Now they just need to follow through.
Damian Sarcuni:Microsoft. Xbox live was an absolute bee hive of activity this month, due the re-releases of TMNT: The Arcade Game and Castlevania: Symphony of the Night. (I'll let you in on a little secret: The writers here are STILL debating who gets to review that title, hehe.) Add in the announcement of the Xbox 360 Elite along with more previously "exclusive" titles now appearing on the 360 and Microsoft takes this month bar none.
Steve McHugh:Sony. Yes finally Sony wins one with a pretty good launch. A good number of consoles were sold, and they even gave away free HDTV’s to the first 125 customers at Virgin in London. An act of superb marketing to apologize for all the shit or, an act of desperation? You decide.
Sean Garmer:Sony & Microsoft. Sony was able to sell out all of it’s first units in the UK and make records because of it. How well it will do in the future still depends on getting better games out there, but for now, Sony deserves it’s time in the spotlight. Microsoft’s XBOX Live was a big hit in March with the release of Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, a stellar game that many consider the crown jewel of the franchise. TMNT’s Original Arcade game also came out as Damian pointed out, and it’s sure to sell a boat load for the Live service. Heck, they finally made me get online with Live last month because they had too much good stuff to pass up. I think both of them equally did well last month.
2. Biggest Loser of the Month
Sean McCabe:Sony. Heh, yep, there's a catch. The European launch was decidedly lukewarm, and the HDTV giveaway smacks more of desperation to me, than generosity. Also, the PS3 as of yet still has no killer app titles.
Theo Fraser:Microsoft. Let me explain this one. They haven’t done anything outright “wrong,” as such. They haven’t had a particularly bad month. It’s just that everyone’s been talking about the PS3 and the Wii, with there being relatively little mention of Microsoft’s console. The only time I’ve seen Microsoft speaking to the press this month is to address their competitors, and make snide remarks about their opponents. They haven’t done anything newsworthy of their own accord, and have therefore started to slip out of the limelight this month.
Cory Moore:Nintendo. It can’t quite be considered a losing cause, but Nintendo did have a very quiet month. There were only a handful of games released for Wii and DS, and none of them were really noteworthy. Elsewhere, Microsoft and Sony made noise, good or bad. Nintendo didn’t lose steam (The Wii is still selling out around the country), but it certainly didn’t advance in the race, either.
Damian Sarcuni:Fools who shut down E3. Oh, you poor, poor fools, The E for All expo is shaping up to be ten times better than E3 ever was and the public opening has fans more interested than ever. Why does no one recognize a good thing when they have it? These idiots gave up a gaming publicity monopoly for NOTHING, and now someone else is reaping the rewards.
Steve McHugh:Sony. Yes again. This time it’s because they lost the DMC4 exclusive and it will be now also appearing on the 360. This is huge news and really seems like another Sony blunder, but it gets worse. I read an interview with Capcom who said that Lost Planet and Dead Rising will never appear on the PS3 and it seems like Microsoft has a really good deal in place with Capcom so why didn’t Sony? Even worse for Sony is that in an interview they admitted that FF13 isn’t yet sorted as an exclusive for the PS3. Now that the 360 has DMC 4 you know they want FF13 too and it seems like Sony are just not doing a good enough job to keep their big titles.
Sean Garmer:Sony. Sorry, but losing the exclusivity of Devil May Cry 4 is a big deal. This game was a system seller for Sony in the olden days and now they are going to have to share the profits with Microsoft. Capcom seems to be rolling in the dough for Microsoft lately and it will happen again with this one. Also with information released that the White Engine has now gone multi-platform (the same engine used to make FFXII and FFXIII) leads to the big possibility of FFXIII winding up on the XBOX 360 too. If not, for sure once Square begins to use the Unreal III engine those games will probably appear on XBOX 360 also making them quick ports too. Sony may act like losing all these exclusives isn’t anything to worry about, but as Nintendo proved in the last two cycles, low third party support usually equals losing the war. It’s nowhere near over, but Sony really needs to do a better job of protecting its third party titles.
3. Biggest News Story of the Month
Sean McCabe:The GDC. Lots of stuff went down there this month, including the above Sony unveilings. However, next time, one would hope the GDC doesn't get so much coverage, as more bitchin' came out of it than actual games news.
Theo Fraser:Playstation Home. GDC was the biggest event of the month, and the Playstation Home was the biggest story coming out of it. I personally don’t think it’s going to be anything revolutionary, but it’s still a pretty big deal, and if it becomes even half as big as Second Life, Sony could be on to a winner.
Cory Moore:Playstation Home. While it has its similarities to the Wii’s Mii setup, Sony’s “Home” feature coming to the PS3 this fall will certainly give the sophisticated gamer something to do even when they’re not playing a video game. If the free-roaming environment is responsive, it could be the x-factor in this console race. If it’s full of glitches and bugs, it could be the laughingstock of this generation.
Damian Sarcuni:Mario vs. Sonic at the Olympics Game. Mario and Sonic at the Olympics. Great three toed sloth of the ice planet Hoth it is finally happened! Not on Super Smash Bros., not on some wussy vs. game, but at the goddamn Olympics! The lord of Ron Jeremy lookalikes and the rodent with the voice of Steven Q. Urkel have teamed up after a decade of separation. Oh what a tag team this will be. I, just pray they put a boxing event in the game. Knuckles vs. Luigi dancing around in the sweet science, I LOVE IT!
Steve McHugh:PS3 UK Launch. This was always going to be the big story of the month but to me what’s even bigger is that Sony was giving away a free 46 inch HDTV with the first 125 PS3’s brought in Virgin in London. The TV is nearly 3 times more expensive then the PS3 which makes it a pretty cool gift.
Sean Garmer:Playstation Home. This actually seems like a cool idea that meshes the Wii Mii’s with the XBOX 360 achievements. You actually have apartments with rooms you can decorate, a lounge for meeting people, and a Hall of Fame. The concept could very well work, but it’s all up to the gamers to take to it.
4. Classic Game of the Month
Sean McCabe:Dino Crisis 2 (PS1) my friend is playing it on my PS2 as I type this. This was an awesome action game from Capcom, and it's just a shame they would kill the franchise with the horrible Dino Crisis 3.
Theo Fraser:Command & Conquer: Generals (PC) C&C3: Tiberium Wars, is hitting the shops anytime now, but what better way to bring in the new era of C&C games by revisiting arguably the best in the series, Generals.
Cory Moore:NBA Jam (SNES & SEGA Genesis) I brought my MacBook to Media Law class last night and busted out the good ol’ SNES emulator. My friend was so impressed. Alonzo Mourning and Larry Johnson could light it up it back in the day.
Damian Sarcuni:TMNT: The Arcade Game (NES & XBOX Live Arcade) #$%^ what ya heard! The movie is great and so are the games. Surrender your worthless maturity. You know you want to shell out like you did back in the 90's, so tell your friends, family, and significant others, to shut their damn mouths and go do it. I love being a turtle.
Steve McHugh:Zombies Ate My Neighbors (SNES) If you haven’t played this game you’re missing out on one of the most enjoyable games ever released, pure gaming madness that needs to be re-released.
Sean Garmer:Crimson Skies: High Road to Revenge (XBOX) I remember getting this in 2005, free, with my one year XBOX Live account (that I would not renew until just recently) I never played it online but it was a total blast to play the story mode. Set in the times around 1930, you play an air pirate named Nathan Zachary that gets to fly around in many different planes. There’s tons of missions and the online play was a big draw back then. You can find it for pretty cheap now, so go look for it.
5. Best Game in March
Sean McCabe:Bullet Witch (XBOX 360). Partly due to the lack of other good releases in the UK in March, perhaps, but, this is a good game and the victim of a lot of hyperbole and elitism thrown it's way, because of it's obvious technical imperfections, that really have little impact on the entertainment value of the game itself.
Theo Fraser:S.T.A.L.K.E.R. (PC)
Cory Moore:God of War II (PS2)
Damian Sarcuni:Custom Robo Arena (Nintendo DS) I hate to be biased, but this was honestly the most fun I had with any game this month (besides the legendary SotN). Check out my review to find out why.
Steve McHugh:Castlevania: Symphony of the Night (PS1 & XBOX Live Arcade) One of the best games of all time, was easily the best game in March. Nothing else even comes close (including nearly every single PS3 launch title).
Sean Garmer:God of War II (PS2) Do I really need to say why? It’s better than the first game, it has bigger boss battles and more of them, the game is as fun as ever, and Kratos just rocks.
Winner:God of War II (PS2, SCEA)
Ultimate Winner:Sony. Not only did God of War 2 barely beat out its competition this month, but a Playstation 1 classic was also nominated in Castlevania Symphony of the Night because it was just released for XBOX Live Arcade. Cheers Sony, you finally made a game this year worth all the hype.
6. Currently Gaming
Sean McCabe:King of Fighters XI (PS2), Fire Pro R, SNK vs. Capcom: Card Fighters Clash (Nintendo DS) and Bullet Witch (XBOX 360).
Theo Fraser:Red Steel (Nintendo Wii) and Hitman: Blood Money (PS2)
Cory Moore:Wario Ware: Smooth Moves (Nintendo Wii) College work is difficult, I tell ya! I have no idea where I’m going to get the time to play Super Paper Mario when it comes out in a few short weeks…
Damian Sarcuni:Enchanted Arms (XBOX 360) I saw this game got mixed reviews, and the RPG/battle system is certainly...different, but I do like it. The dialogue is well recorded, and the storyline is unique if nothing else. Definitely, worth checking out if you are a fan of strategy games.
Steve McHugh:Dragon Quest Heroes: Rocket Slime (Nintendo DS) Yes I’m still playing this as it’s huge and after playing Okami for so long I needed to go back to this. If you like RPG’s you need this game. It’s that simple.
Sean Garmer:Def Jam: ICON (XBOX 360), NBA Street Homecourt (XBOX 360), God of War (PS2), God of War II (PS2), Midnight Club 3: Dub Edition Remix (PS2), Kirby’s Squeak Squad (Nintendo DS)
Here are the Games coming out this month, they are listed in ABC order and by release week, so they should be easy to find. Please keep in mind that just because we don’t talk about a game, doesn’t mean it’s going to suck. I send out the template for these two weeks in advance, so sometimes changes are made in release dates by then and we don’t get to talk about any new games added. If you see a game on the list that intrigues you, we implore you to take our advice, and find information on it on your own. Here we go.
Games coming out the week of April 1st
Cake Mania (Nintendo DS Puzzler, Majesco Games)
Sean McCabe: I have my eye on this after how fun Cooking Mama turned out to be.
Cory Moore: This is a PC remake for the DS which utilizes the stylus and touch screen in the same vein as Cooking Mama. There’s a good chance that this will appeal to that niche audience, but will it have the same charm?
Sean Garmer: This seems similar to Cooking Mama and I loved that game. This is a remake of a PC game and it fits great on the Nintendo DS. Unlike Cooking Mama, where the focus was on actually making the food, this one seems to be on the whole package. Since Cake is made virtually the same way, unless you are making some original recipe, even then most cakes have the same basic elements. What’s important here is that, you also have to take in account speed and the customers that will rush you. The game will no doubt be fun and could make me want to purchase three Nintendo DS games this month.
Enchanted Arms (PS3 RPG, From Software)- port of a XBOX 360 game.
Sean McCabe: Great RPG in my estimation, I'm sure the PS3 port is fine.
Steve McHugh:A decent Xbox 360 RPG but not a great one. Mostly because of the awful voice work, which has apparently has been redone for the PS3 and thus should be even better to play. However, it’s still a year old 360 game. Sony needs to stop porting over these games.
Final Fantasy: Chocobo Tales (Nintendo DS RPG, Square-Enix)
Cory Moore: Chocobo Tales is targeted to a younger audience, but that doesn’t mean older gamers won’t love its mix of role-playing, mini-games and card-battling. It’s worth a look for any gamers that enjoy a quick-paced RPG with a lot of things thrown in there.
Damian Sarcuni: If you've played any Final Fantasy before, the appeal of this game should be obvious. Not only are the cute and cuddly WARKers from the FF series finally getting a shot at stardom, but, the game involves the use of playing cards. Square-Enix does know their card games. The question is, will this game have the greatness of Triple Triad, or the frustration of Tetramaster? I'm willing to throw down the cash to find out.
Steve McHugh: I hated Chocobo racing for the PS1 and this seems to be less racing and more of an RPG and it looks pretty good too. I don’t much care as I’m been unimpressed so far with Square-Enix’s DS RPG’s but this could turn it around.
Sean Garmer: The cute mascot of Final Fantasy gets it’s own DS game and it involves mini-games and cards, it could only be Square-Enix. The crystals also have a point in this one and the card playing takes a whole new turn with the stylus controls. The minigames can also be played with three other people through wireless. I’ve read a few reviews of this on the Japanese version it seems like tons of unorthodox fun.
Guitar Hero II (XBOX 360 Music Game, Harmonix & Red Octane)
Cory Moore: The PS2 cult following gets its due on the 360. With online leaderboards and more song downloads than you can shake a stick at, Microsoft fans will no doubt be jumping for joy.
Steve McHugh: It’s not a wireless guitar but who cares. More songs then the PS2 game and a cooler guitar means this is an easy game for me to buy. Freebird baby!
Sean Garmer: The game is wonderful loads of fun on the PS2. Now with more songs, new play modes, and eventually downloadable songs that has to entice people to pay the 90 dollar price tag. Also, there are a lot of reports that the 360 Xplorer Controller is in fact, better than the PS2 one, seems like this is another killer title for Microsoft, and another feather in the cap of Harmonix and Red Octane.
Prince of Persia: Rival Swords (Action Adventure Game, Ubisoft)
Sean McCabe: I didn't think The Two Thrones was all that great, but I'll give this a chance. I need more Wii games.
Theo Fraser: I didn’t play The Two Thrones, on which this is basically a rehash, so I might give it a look, if the Wii controls are anything to shout home about. I doubt the Wii enhancements will be enough to get you to buy it if you didn’t like Two Thrones, but if like me, you simply missed out on it, this could be worth the money.
Sean Garmer: I've enjoyed the Prince of Persia series. I liked Sands of Time a lot but Warrior Within kinda was off to me because of the change in the story and combat. I didn't get to play Two Thrones and after seeing what they are going to do with this on the Wii it seems enticing. However, this is the same game as Two Thrones with a name change and Wii controls, so if you have another version of this, don't waster your money.
Steve McHugh: It’s not Sega bass fishing therefore it won’t be as good because it doesn’t have its own controller. I don’t’ remember anyone crying out for a fishing game on the 360, but if you have been, then this looks like it could be for you.
Sean Garmer: I remember SEGA Bass Fishing with the controller that simulated real fishing, which allowed you to enjoy the game twenty times more than if just used the regular Dreamcast controller. It’s a fishing game, if that’s your thing, give it a look.
Sims 2: Celebration Stuff (PC Virtual Life, EA)
Cory Moore: From creating cakes to O.C.-inspired social gatherings, this is the perfect game for an aspiring socialite. Though, this game could really shine if it lets us throw wild beach parties!
Other Games to be released this month
Bliss Island (PSP Puzzler, Codemasters)
Brave: Search for the Spirit Dancer (PS2 Platformer, Southpeak Interactive)
Frontline: Fields of Thunder (PC WII RTS, Paradox Interactive)
Honeycomb Beat (Nintendo DS Puzzler, Konami)
Hot Dog King: A Fast Food Empire (PC Strategy Game, Meridian 4)
Made Man (PS2 & PC Action Adventure Game, Aspyr)
Phylon (PC MMO FPS, Rapid Reality Games)
The Plan (PS2 Tactical Shooter, SVG Distribution)
Sing Star Pop (PS2 Music Game, SCEA)
Games coming out the week of April 8th
Super Paper Mario (Nintendo Wii Platformer, Nintendo)
Sean McCabe: It's Mario. It's a platformer. It's going to rock, period.
Theo Fraser: Forget Super Mario Galaxy for a moment. THIS is the Mario game to get excited about. Everyone who has played it, has extolled its virtues, and currently terms such as “one of the best games ever” are circulating various media outlets, and just for the record, I’m predicting that Donkey Kong is a playable character. There’s been mention recently that a fourth character is hidden away later into the game who is from the “Mario universe,” and the Paper Mario games are well known for their humor, plus Donkey Kong was a playable character in Yoshi’s Island DS…I think you can see my train of thought. Anyway, Nintendo seem to have hit a home-run with the 2D-into-3D gimmick, which leads me to believe this could be quite the revolutionary title.
Cory Moore: The first Mario release for the Wii is set to follow in the path of New Super Mario Brothers released last year for the DS. Don’t expect turn-based RPG elements this time around; Super Paper Mario is a side scroller through and through. This could be the Nintendo’s sleeper hit of the year.
Steve McHugh: Paper Mario has never been bad. This will be utterly fantastic and everyone should go buy it.
Sean Garmer: I loved Paper Mario for the N64 and I never got to play the one on the Gamecube. This one decides to do the inverse of the other Paper Mario games and make it a traditional Mario action game with RPG elements. For example when you get hit or use something you lose HP or MP, instead of losing growth. There’s also the promise of getting to play with Bowser, Peach, and another character. Not to mention, how can you go wrong with Mario. I wouldn’t be surprised to see this as game of the month in the next roundtable.
Tokyo Xtreme Racer DRIFT 2 (PC Driving Game, SVG Distribution)
Damian Sarcuni: My fellow drifters, take this one with a grain of salt. The Tokyo Xtreme series tends to fall flat in almost every new release, and its kind of obvious they are just trying to jump on the drifting bandwagon in an attempt to rake in some fast bucks. Then again, its on PC, and if you're starving, anything tastes good.
Whirlwind Over Vietnam (PC Helicopter Simulation, Evolved Games)
Steve McHugh: Another sim although this one is using Helicopters so that makes it much more interesting straight away. It sounds like it’ll be based in Vietnam too, so that makes it sound like it could be a decent stab at a difficult genre to get right.
Other games to be released this week
Hard Rock Casino (PSP Puzzler, Crave)
Loco Mania (PC Train Simulation, Atari)
The Red Star (PS2 Action Adventure, XS Games)
Games coming out the week of April 15th
Bust-A-Move Bash (Nintendo Wii Puzzler, Majesco Games) -Will be the first Wii game to allow for eight players.
Cory Moore: Can you say ‘party?’ Seriously, though, with just 2 Wii-motes and nunchuks, you can dive into the 4-player goodness, but it may be worth buying 2 more sets just for the 8-player action. This is a must for puzzler buffs.
Steve McHugh: Hey, it’s out finally. The Wii seems to have slowed down on great games recently but I guess every console has to have a copy of this game. If you’ve got 7 friends then this could be great. If not, then just go get an earlier version of the game as it’ll be almost identical.
Sean Garmer: Eight Players on one system? Where do I sign up? This sounds like fun for everyone. Aside from the multiplayer there’s a classic mode with up to ten worlds and 500 puzzles to play through. There’s also a shooting mode and a mode that lets you play the game without a timer. Looks like Wii owners will be having a good time very soon.
Sudokuro (Nintendo DS Puzzler, Crave) -Includes over 1500 Puzzles for Sudoku and over 5000 for Kakuro. Also you have a choice between stylus or button gameplay.
Cory Moore: If you thought Sudoku was popular before, just wait until they bundle it with Kakuro. With over 1000 and 5000 games, respectively, this game will keep people busy for hours, or, at least keep them busy in class.
Steve McHugh: Sudoku. Again, Not a month goes by without another developer jumping on the bandwagon. At least the DS version should have a good control system with the stylus and there’s Kakuro included too. If you like, this sort of thing then this should be something you may want to look into, and no Carol Vorderman in sight.
Valhalla Knights (PSP RPG, XSeed Games)
Steve McHugh: The PSP needs some decent RPGs and this looks pretty good but it’s defiantly a wait and see game as I’ve thought that about a few PSP RPG’s.
Sean Garmer: I got a Game Informer last month that gave this a 4.5 and then my EGM the next month gave it about the same grade. I’ve read that the Japanese version is better, but apparently there’s a lot of bugs, translation issues, and gameplay flaws. I would research this before just going out and buying this because it is an RPG.
Other games to be released this week
Eureka Seven Vol. 2: The New Vision (PS2 Shooter, Namco Bandai Games America)
Cory Moore: This game is being developed by the same team that made Lego Star Wars and, it looks like it will carry the same formula. There isn’t a whole lot about the gameplay on the ‘net, but the screenshots look very promising.
Steve McHugh: Okay the other console versions of this game were in a sort of Lego Star Wars vane so this could actually end up being a lot of fun.
Sean Garmer: I never understood the whole Bionicle craze, probably because I was an old school regular Lego person. Like Cory said, there isn’t much about this, but I would bet since it’s being made by the Lego Star Wars guys, this probably won’t end up too bad. Especially it being on the Wii, the controls could make it enticing.
Fairy Godmother Tycoon (PC Strategy Game, EA)
Damian Sarcuni: This isn't out yet? I guess my sister was just playing the demo. According to my household Tycoon fans, this one is a keeper. Personally I think its worth it just for the big monster who stands outside the local store and "coaxes" people in. It looks like he's...well, making an effort to make himself feel very very good for 5 seconds, if you know what I mean.
F.E.A.R. (PS3 FPS, Vivendi Games)
Sean McCabe: Great FPS, buy it if you need one for the PS3.
Theo Fraser: Big fan of the PC version, so I’m sure you PS3 gamers will lap this up. If you prefer aliens in your shooters, buy Resistance, but if you like a horror tinge to your FPS games, FEAR is the one to get. Don’t play it in the dark!
Steve McHugh: Another 6 month old 360 game. A great game but even so this is getting pretty bad for Sony not having original titles coming out.
Sean Garmer: This game was a different take on the FPS genre. It tries to scare you while providing great gameplay at the same time. If you are tired of the run of the mill shooter, give this one a try.
Model Train 3D (PC Train Simulation, Abacus Software)
Steve McHugh: Oh bloody hell 2 train sim games in 1 month. What for? Why does the world need another train sim. Who is buying this stuff? And if it’s you, then please go get out and do something with your life.
Pokemon Diamond & Pearl (Nintendo DS RPG, Nintendo)
Sean McCabe: I'm done with Pokemon... until, I inevitably play this, then I'll probably find myself on the dark side once again.
Theo Fraser: Well, if you’re a Pokemaniac, I’m sure you’ve had this pre-ordered for months now, and if you’re not a Pokemaniac, I highly doubt there’s enough in there to make you change your mind. Like previous Pokemon updates, it features some nice new additions, and should be even more intuitive than normal thanks to the DS hardware, but it’s not a ground-breaking title. For Pokemon fans, sure, it’s a must-buy, as it’s a brand new roster and a brand new story and all that, but for other gamers, I don’t think it’s going to convert you.
Cory Moore: After a long absence, a brand-spanking new adventure arrives for the first time on the Nintendo DS! There’s over 100 more species to catch in this incarnation, so you better get your battling shoes ready!
Steve McHugh: I never got Pokemon. Then I played some of the GBA games and was hooked. I can’t wait for this one although it looks more then a continuation of a tried and tested idea then a reworking of it.
Sean Garmer: This reminds me, I still need to go reserve these games. Without Pokemon I would not be the huge RPG fan I am today. As a kid back in 1998 when these first came to America, there was a lot of hype on Pokemon and because of the cool looking monsters I wanted the games. However, at the time I hated RPG’s, but I didn’t know until my brother told me, (after I had already beaten the game) that I had just played an RPG. I went on to play and beat Chrono Trigger, after that I loved RPG’s. Anyone hoping for this to be the first 3D Pokemon experience is going to have to keep waiting, as this one is another 2D affair. There are 100 new monsters and 150 in total. You can import the other 300 monsters into the game as well. Other than that, it’s just a continuation of the series and I’m sure in Poke’ fan will love it. I only play the games now a days (because hey, the games still rock) A whole new generation of kids will continue to enjoy everything Pokemon.
SNK vs. Capcom Card Fighters (Nintendo DS Card Game, SNK)
Sean McCabe: Please be good. Please be good.
Steve McHugh: The original on the Neo Pocket is fantastic and this had better be just as good or I will not be happy at all. However as SNK are developing it I have very high hopes that this will be excellent.
Sparta: Ancient Wars (PC RTS, Eidos Interactive)
Sean McCabe: Madness? This is SPAAARRRTTAAA!... sorry. No comment on the game, I just had to do it.
Steve McHugh: Cash in! Actually, this was probably in production for a long time before the film became a huge hit and if you liked 300 and like RTS then you should certainly go check this out.
Ultimate Board Game Collection (PSP Puzzler, Valcon Games)
Cory Moore: Parcheesi and Chess is great and all, but unless this game is under $10, I wouldn’t recommend picking this one up. You’ve already got half of these games in one form or another on your PC, right?
Sean Garmer: A bunch of different games in one box, that exist in other places. Well it’s cool if you don’t want to buy all the board games or don’t play on a PC.
Other games to be released this week
7 Wonders (PSP Puzzler, Mac Play)
Aedis Eclipse: Generation of Chaos (PSP RPG, NIS America)
Cube (PSP Puzzler, D3)
EverQuest: Anniversary Edition (PC Online RPG, SOE) -Includes: EverQuest Classic with a compilation of all 13 Expansions
The Fast and Furious (PSP Driving Game, Namco Bandai Games America)
Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Agmar (PC RPG, Midway)
Radio Allergy (Gamecube Shoot-Em-Up, O3 Entertainment)
Games coming out of the week of April 29th
Coded Arms Contagion (PSP Adventure Game, Konami)
Steve McHugh: PSP and FPS games are not friends. They hate each other. The first Coded Arms game was awful and from what I’ve seen the sequel won’t be doing anything overly exciting. It doesn’t look like it’s the games fault it’s the awful PSP controls.
Dark Messiah of Might And Magic (XBOX 360 FPS, Ubisoft)
Sean McCabe: If they fix the bugs from the PC version, I feel this could be good. I always thought it looked way better than Oblivion with it's much more visceral combat. We shall see I guess.
Steve McHugh: I never played the PC version and wasn’t too interested as it seemed a little Oblivion light, but it does look very impressive and I will definitely be checking it out. As it looks like it could be another great addition to the 360 games library.
Earache Extreme Metal Racing (PC Combat Racing Game, Metro3D)
Damian Sarcuni: Heh, wouldn't it be cool if this was actually a game based on the Earache Record Compa OH MY GOD IT IS! The same people that brought us At The Gates, Dub War, Cathedral, Carcass, Morbid Angel, Mortiis, Bolt Thrower, Pitchshifter, and Napalm Death made a knockoff of Twisted Metal?! Why didn't anyone tell me?! The graphics for this look dated, but then again if they get rid of all the added crap that was put into the later Twisted Metal releases and just copy the originals, this could be a classic.
Sean McCabe: Don't care about the PSP and PS2 versions, but the Wii version, assuming the controls are good, could be very cool.
Theo Fraser: The PS2 and PSP versions are still pretty good, but this comes into its own on the Wii. Heatseeker utilizes the Wii-mote and nunchuk to great effect, which is refreshing considering it was originally produced with the PS2 in mind. There are relatively few plot-driven titles out on the Wii at present, so Heatseeker definitely stands out from the crowd in that respect, with mission briefings, proper voice-overs and a relatively solid plot. There’s no multiplayer experience, and the solo mode isn’t going to last you a lifetime, but if you’re after an intense session of dogfighting in the skies, you could do a lot worse than check this out, a nice bit of variety for the Wii’s catalogue.
Steve McHugh: The Wii version looks like a great laugh but the PS2 and PSP versions look a little under-whelming. This could be a bit of a sleeper hit for Wii owners though, and if they get the controls right on the PSP it could be a good game that fill the action fighter void on the handheld quite well.
The Ship (PC FPS, Mindscape)
Theo Fraser: I was a big fan of the original, which was one of the best Half-Life mods out there, in my opinion. It was great fun, and always pretty frantic, which made it a total blast when playing it with people you know. This is the updated version using the Half Life: Source engine, and is probably the most in-depth experience you’ll find from that particular engine. Not only do you have to carry out your assigned contract kill, you also have to make sure you keep up your character’s needs, such as their need for food and drink. This adds a strategic element to the proceedings, and prevents it from turning into a run-‘n’-gun fest. Fans of the original will likely lap this up, but if you weren’t tempted by the free version, you’ll unlikely be swayed to part with your cash for this graphical update.
Spiderman 3 (All Systems Action Game, Activision) -Game based off the movie.
Theo Fraser: I can’t speak for other versions, but I’m personally very much looking forward to the Wii version. Details have only just started to come out about it, but it sounds incredibly intuitive, with the player using the nunchuk and Wii-mote to represent each of Spiderman’s arms, allowing you to swing through the streets of New York with a simple flick of the wrist. If its implemented as fluidly as it sounds, just wasting time swinging through the city could be fun in itself, let alone the various missions offered to you. I’ve got reasonably high hopes for this one.
Cory Moore: If previous Activision/Spidey titles are any indication, this could be another great game. The excitement of swinging between buildings really sets it apart from other platformers, a good way to build up hype for the movie, too.
Steve McHugh: Spider-man 2 on the last gen of consoles was awesome but had plenty of boring go fetch quests. Apparently, they’ve been removed for this version and it looks utterly stunning. The PS3 and 360 versions of this should be fantastic. The Wii version is also sounding interesting and if the Wiimote is actually used to help swinging then could be a lot of fun.
Sean Garmer: This sounds like another great Spiderman title from Activision. The Wii’s controls are most intriguing but all the versions with beautiful graphics, the story of the movie, and more will probably do a lot for the film.
World Championship Cards (PS2 Casino Game, Crave)
Steve McHugh: Okay, here’s an idea. Just go buy some cards, or better yet, save up some cash and go to an actual casino and win real money. The only reason, to ever buy games like these is to play with your friends and then brag, but bragging is so much better when you have a few of their notes in your pocket.
Sean Garmer: Steve has a point, you should just go buy some cards instead of paying 30 dollars for this just to play online. Cards are just as fun to play, with our without money, but having that incentive to bankrupt your friend can also make real card playing memorable.
Dog Island (Nintendo Wii & PS2 Virtual Life, Yuke’s)
Legend of the Dragon (Nintendo Wii, PS2, & PSP Action Adventure Game, The Game Factory & Neko Entertainment)
Penumbra: Overture (PC Horror Adventure Game, Got Game Entertainment)
The Settlers II: Next Generation (10th Anniversary) (PC Strategy Game, Ubisoft) -Remake of Settlers II with redone 3D graphics and artwork.
Steel Horizon (PSP Strategy Game, Konami)
Universal Combat Collectors Edition (PC Space Combat Simulation, 3000 AD Inc.) -Compilation of all three previous games with new engines and scenarios.
Winx Club: Join the Club (PSP Action Game, Konami)
Well we are done for this month folks. Thank you for taking the time to read this roundtable, but hopefully, now you can make smart gaming purchases. We hope you’ll join us next month. If you having any comments for the staff or about the roundtable in general, shoot me an email, and I’ll show it to everyone. See ya in May.
