Warner Bros. announces Motion Comics

Via Newsarama, "Warner Bros. Digital Distribution and Warner Premiere announced today a new way for graphic novel fans to connect with their favorite characters and the stories they know and love through short-form digital content. “Warner Premiere’s Motion Comics” draw on a massive amount of source material to bring a visually engaging experience to life through the use of subtle movements, voice-overs, sweeping music scores and stunning comic book artwork."

To start the program, for the next two weeks, you can download Part One of Watchmen for free, via Entertainment Weekly, which will redirect you to iTunes. From there you can import the Motion Comic to you iPod or iPhone. Each following episode will cost you $1.99 a piece. Also, on Xbox Live and Verizon's VCast service you can download Batman: Mad Love, which will become available starting July 22. Expect more news on Motion Comics at this year's San Diego Comic-Con!

I've downloaded the free "episode" of Watchmem, despite owning the actual book. I will say, with the music and voice over, it makes the comic more engaging, in similar fashion to the Metal Gear Solid: Digital Graphic Novel. And considering this first episode is roughly over 25 minutes, there's no excuse for yo to not check this out while it's free.

Interesting note about Watchmen trailer

I knew when I saw the Watchmen trailer that the background music sounded familiar. And no, not just because it was the Smashing Pumpkins. The song is titled “The Beginning Is the End Is the Beginning” and it turns out a reworked version of the song was on the soundtrack for Batman & Robin; which coincidentally, I actually own... yeah, I'm not proud of that.

MTV Movies Blog has an article about the connection if you like to read.

Star Trek movie website

The official website for J.J Abrams' Star Trek has been up since the teaser was released last winter. However it wasn't updated until now. Most notable is the May 8, 2009 release date; a bit earlier than the presumed Summer 2009. But it's also now sporting a nice white design, the teaser trailer is still up for viewing, also added to the site is the downloads section. In it are wallpapers based on this new set of posters for the film, and if you combine the four you will see they actually make up the series' emblem.

Top Row: Zoe Saldana as Urura; Eric Bana as new Romulan villain, Nero
Bottom Row: Chris Pine as James T. Kirk; Zachary Quinto as Mr. Spock

When clicked, you will see the emblem reflected in each character's eyes.

I'm really excited they went for The Original Series style, I just hope J.J. doesn't ruin it. Judging from the posters however, they're doing a fine job of staying true to the series. Now we'll just have to see how the rest of the cast looks...

Star Trek - Official Movie Site

Now in HD

So, I've finally completed my entry into the 21st century by getting an HD TV today. A 26" Sony Bravia, it's quite nice, and with its glossy black trim it matches well with my PS3. Anyways, after setting up, I hooked up my Wii and PS3 to the TV, though currently both are connected with standard composite cables. So I'm not getting a real HD experience quite yet, but it's nice to finally get to play my games in the 16:9 ratio they were meant for. I plan to get an HDMI cable for the PS3 and component cables for the Wii as soon as I can. I'll tell how good it is later.

Watchmen teaser trailer

From the director of 300, comes DC Comics' tale of a group of misfit heroes, Watchmen. I'm not exactly sure of the story, as I finally got my hands on the book just a few weeks ago, and have yet to find time to read it. The novel itself was written by Alan Moore, who also wrote V for Vendetta, the graphic novel, not the movie.

If you want to catch this on the big screen, you can see it before normal screening of The Dark Knight. And yes, that's The Smashing Pumpkins in the background.

The Dark Knight review

I just arrived back from the midnight IMAX premiere of The Dark Knight, it's about 3:15 A.M. To be honest with you, I'm really at a loss for words; I left the theater speechless, staring down the full moon as I was driven back home. I really wasn't sure what to think, I'm honestly fumbling in my thoughts right now, especially from the lack of sleep, but I will prevail.

The Dark Knight (TDK) takes place after the events of Batman Begins. Bruce Wayne is without his mansion, Lucius Fox is in charge of Wayne Enterprises, the Mob is still running the streets, and crime is still ramped; it's all carried over. As hinted at the end of Begins, the main villain this time around is The Joker, and what a villain he is. Portrayed by the late Heath Ledger, The Joker becomes more the focus of the movie than Batman himself. But that is not a bad thing, Ledgers performance is phenomenal to say the least. TDK's twisted, disheveled, and ruthless representation of The Joker probably could not have been done without the talented Ledger, and it's truly a shame to know he has passed. He has brought us, quite possibly, one of the most memorable character portrayals in movie history, it's simply brilliant.

But TDK's greatness is not just because of Ledger. The introduction of Gotham's new District Attorney, Harvey Dent, portrayed by Aaron Eckhart, is also a site to be seen. Eckhart, much like his character in Thank You For Smoking, uses his charismatic charm to win the heart of Gotham City. But with this charm he also brings with him a very serious tone, a tone heightened later in the film, which I won't delve into due to spoilers. And what would a Batman film be without The Dark Knight himself? Christian Bale once again out performs himself, and everyone else to ever don the Batsuit. He provides the character with a moral complexity, and really makes Bruce Wayne's struggle for love and justice believable. Where Begins portrayed Bruce as a wreckless playboy, TDK shows that he does have the ability to mature, and take risks that he himself may not truly believe in.

Other cast members are not left without mention; Maggie Gyllenhaal does a much better job of making the Rachel Dawes character interesting than Katie Holmes did in Begins. She no longer acts like Bruce's forgotten childhood friend, and becomes a thought provoking character of her own, creating a love triangle between herself, Bruce Wayne and Harvey Dent. Alfred, portrayed by Michael Caine, doesn't get that much screen time this time around; but his wit and guiding words still make him an important part of the film. Morgan Freeman, playing Lucius Fox, is much more of an asset to this film than he was in Begins, with a certain serious charm that only he can pull off. And lastly I'd like to mention Gary Oldman, who returns as Lt. Gordon, much like Freeman, his character becomes more central to the story than in Begins; in fact, Gordon will seem more of a hero than Batman at some points.

As good as the cast was, they would be nothing without fabulous cinematography; and for that you can thank Christopher Nolan. Nolan once again reinvents his style, bringing to life what is probably, The Greatest Comic Book Film Ever Made. It's no lie, forget all the praise around Iron Man, or even Batman Begins; The Dark Knight may be the first comic book film truly worthy of an Oscar nomination. What's most notable is Nolan's direction of the film. Begins was created to reboot the Batman film franchise, leaving it open for sequels. However, with The Dark Knight, Nolan wanted to create a film that could be viewed and appreciated in its own right, hence why the title lacks the Batman name, opting for a relative title instead. This direction is noticeable, and really makes the film that much more special.

And lastly, this is really outside the film itself, and more about presentation. The IMAX experience is truly a magnificent way to see the film, especially when IMAX technology was used to film it. Sure not all the scenes are filmed using IMAX, and you can tell when it is and isn't used, but when it is in use, the film is truly captivating. The engagement of motion, the incredible sound, it truly is the best way to see this film. I'd also like to note about the marketing of this film. The viral websites leading up to the films release gave the movie a very real world feel long before release. Whether it be the Why So Serious? campaign, or getting fans to "vote" for Harvey Dent, Wanrer did a fabulous job of getting word out there. And I'm also quite thankful for the lack of media tie-ins like cereals and video games, it gives the film the direct attention of what it's worth, and a crappy video doesn't ruin the experience.

All in all, this movie is the pinnacle of what comic book movies should be. The acting and cinematography is just breathtaking, and will keep you in suspense the entire time. It should be noted that like Batman Begins, this Batman is not the kid friendly image portrayed in the Joel Schumacher films. In fact, The Dark Knight raises the bar over Begins, just clearing an R rating. The real special part of the film though is indeed Heath Legder performance as The Joker, which will make you laugh, and will also frighten you. In what is basically his final film, Ledger has given us a masterpiece, and he will surely be missed. I will honestly be truly surprised if this doesn't win some sort of Oscar, Ledger's performance alone grants it so. If you were a fan of Begins, then chances are you already plan or have seen The Dark Knight. If you're new to this whole comic book movie thing, see it anyways. If you've never even seen a movie in your life, see this film!

Overall Score: 10/10

Multi-platform Games Part One

First of all I would like to say, holy hell, theirs a lot of multi-platform games to cover, so I'll split this up into two or three parts. Second of all... that's it, lets get rollin'!

Mercenaries 2: World In Flames -
Personally, I missed out on the first Mercenaries. Because if the first is anything like the second is looking to be, it must be one amazing game. With a extremely destructible environment, 130 different vehicles, and seamless co-op, Mercenaries 2 is looking amazing. I saw minimal pop-up and no slowdown whatsoever in the gameplay demo, even when a nuke was called in- which by the way caused the biggest explosion I have ever seen in a videogame, and possibly the most impressive. The game seemed to be very physics heavy, with both the environmental objects and with any of the many vehicles involving cars, jetskiis, tanks, motorcycles, and more. All in all, this is looking to be a very entertaining sandbox game.

Street Fighter IV -
While I can't say I'm very impressed with the direction SFIV is taking, I can say that the graphics look extremely impressive, even though the character design kind of... well sucks. Although Street Fighter II fans should find something to be happy about here, as the games playing style is based on SFII, and the complexity has been brought down from three. Sure, simplicity is nice sometimes, but only two buttons are used. That sounds kind of over the line. I'm hoping the gameplay will win me over, but so far this isn't looking like a buy for me, sorry Street Fighter!

Golden Axe: Beast Rider -
The sequel to a classic, which I used to play all the time, is coming to PS3's and 360's this holiday season, and it looks quite fun. Featuring five ride-able beasts with differing strengths and weaknesses, you'll be able to tear through the enemies limb for limb. That's right, dismemberment and a M-rating! Anyone who has played Ninja Gaiden 2 can testify as to how satisfying that can be if done right. But, my one hope for this game is that you get to tear into those damn little dwarfs. While they are confirmed to return in this game, the tearing into them part is not.

Borderlands -
Now this is one of the best surprises from this years E3. I heard about this quite a long time ago, but never saw any real details or screens or anything and it just kind of vanished for a year or two. Then this year it was shown off in a gameplay demo, and wow, it is amazing. If I had to explain I would say Diablo/Oblivion/Fallout 3. Yeah, that is a force to be reckoned with. Co-op with up to 4 players, and over 500,000 weapons. (Yeah you heard me right. All different, some with elemental effects, other with just plain awesomeness imbued into them.) It seriously is looking like a must have. The game is set in a apocalyptic world and has a sort of Mad Max-like vibe. You and your friends can hop in a vehicle and travel the lands, or just go exploring in minds and whatnot. Level up yourself overall, and in weapon categories and fight even stronger monsters. Blow people in half with shotguns (yeah, you can. Sold yet?). Fight bandits, or even alien wildlife. This is looking extremely expansive, and is already a day one buy for me.

Left 4 Dead -
Not much new to share about the new zombie game from valve. Still looks like a load of fun. 4-player co-op, split screen, and zombies. You cannot go wrong with that. Added with the new character models and the creepy new expansive, yet claustrophobic forest environment and you have yourself a game that's looking even more fleshed out and fun than ever. Watch for it this November, the 4th I believe.

The Dark Knight

Hey readers, you there?, I'm going to be heading out soon because I'm going to the midnight screening of The Dark Knight in IMAX. Therefore you want be seeing any of me until tomorrow at like 4 A.M. but I'll be sure to post my review of the movie as soon as possible!

Nintendo, E3 For Casual Games?

Maybe this explains why Nintendo's E3 presentation sucked:

"I think that there’s probably one other element to it, and that’s that our view of how we use E3 has changed. For a very long time, E3 was an event where — and certainly Nintendo included — catered specifically to the core gamer. Now we look at more … an opportunity for us to introduce new concepts and new types of play that we intend to bring to the broader audience, particularly because of the media that gathers at E3 now.

So while attending an E3 event like this, they might be given the impression that Nintendo is no longer focusing on the games that appeal to the core gamer, in fact we’re still working on many of those titles, but it’s just not the type of event where we’ll be showcasing that anymore." - Miyamoto

Via MSNBC

That makes me feel a little better, but is it just an excuse or are we really going to start seeing Nintendo's core games at other smaller conventions?

Various Nintendo Impressions

Here are a few Nintendo game impressions, yeah, this will be a short one.

Animal Crossing: City Folk -
Animal Crossing was one of the expected announcements at this years e3, and to little surprise it was announced. The game seems to have basically the same graphical presentation as the Gamecube version, mixed with the Wild World style point of view from a isometric sort of angle, where the world seems round. While their were big expectations from everyone on this sequel, I'm sorry to say not many of them where met. So far it seems you cannot build your own furniture, their is confirmed to be no forecast channel support, or NES games (wtf?!)and their is no MMO type gameplay. Just the same old online components from the DS version, with the ability to download new furniture and wallpaper, visit your friends city while they aren't online, and send screenshots to your friends phones, emails, message boards, or mail on Animal Crossing, which is kind of neat... I guess. On the upside of things, you will be able to port over information from the DS Animal Crossing to Town Folks, including clothing, furniture, and other unconfirmed items. A small thing that made me happy was the ability to edit all parts of shirts, front back and sleeves, which is very nice for those who want more detail. For the most part, this seems like an expansion pack, more stuff but no big evolutions or revolutions. So if you liked the old ones and want more, pick this up, if not, well then don't.

Deadly Creatures -
This one actually surprised me, before E3 I had thought this game looked pretty stupid and just not interesting whatsoever. But now after seeing a video of the gameplay demoed, I have to say it looks very impressive. You play as both a tarantula and a scorpion, on and off, and supposedly the gameplay differs between stealthy and more action orientated between the two, and the story is intertwining between the too, it should make for a interesting game! But the first standout feature of the game which caught my eye is the graphics. The textures were clean and the environments where very nice, and while not amazing, got the job done. The ability to climb on walls and ceilings and walls made for a interesting addition, and looks very well done. It is also promised you will be able to fight humans, which sounds amazing considering the scale of them in comparison to your tiny creature. Keep an eye on this one, hitting the stores October this year.

Pikmin -
Being made. Theories and rumors are running rampant, such as pikmin will once again return, there will be at least 3 colors, and that they will have varying attributes. More on these wild speculations as it is revealed.

Wii Sports Resort -
The sequel to Wii Sports, featuring the MotionPlus. The developers are aiming for the goal of 10 unique games all controlled with the help of the MotionPlus peripheral, including both simultaneous and pass the remote multiplayer modes. The motion response on screen seems to be fairly lag free and precise, hopefully enough to justify the purchase of the little square supposedly full of happyness and whatnot known as the MotionPlus.

Skate It -
A Wii exclusive version of skate, Skate It, uses the balance board for translating realistic skateboarding movements into a onscreen skater pulling off moves in a environment with realistic physics. The team working on the game is full of real life skaters, so hopefully the can get the feel of skating down and transfer it to the virtual world. I'm a fan of the first Skate, so I'm pulling for this one to turn out well.

MGO Gene Expansion now available

The Gene Expansion for Metal Gear Online is apperently now available from the in-game MGO Shop. Still no prices listed anywhere, which worries me, but you can find the details here.

Metal Gear Online - Gene Expansion

UPDATE: I logged into MGO, to find that I needed to update from v1.01 to v1.10, so after that was done, I went to check the MGO Shop. Turns out its down due to high traffic; a problem that could've been easily avoided if the jut used the PSN. Anyways I did notice some new features with the update. For instance, for your "achievment" like consectutive kills, etc. you now get a little badge to go with it in your stats. The menus are also set up for the Reward Shop and Survival modes, even if you dont have the ability to access them. And theres also a new "Clan Chat" so that you can mingle with your fellow clansmen (that in poor taste?).

I am in the clan "Snipers United", so if you need a headshot, call me. Oh, and I made the rank of Water Bear today, whatever the hell that is... Previously I held the rank of Sloth, aka Most Likely to Die via Headshot. I reached Water Bear by having a "high survival rate", yeah...

Radiohead - "House of Cards"

I knew this came out, but it wasn't on Radiohead's website, so I wasn't sure where to find it. Turns out it was on their YouTube account.. along with a behind the scenes video. All motion capture in the video was actually made with lasers, it's pretty neat.

"House of Cards"


Behind the Scenes

Update: High-res now available

Playstation Store - 7/16/08

A few hours late; I totally forgot that the PS Store is updating for each day of E3, this was Day 3, here's whats new in the Game Store:

Downloadable Games
- Fantasy Football: Draft Day Application - Price Unknown

Videos (All Free)
- SONY E3 Press Conference (Part 1 of 3)
- PS3 Compilation Video
- PSN :30 Second Sizzle
- PSN Sizzle Video
- PlayStation Family Video
- PS3 Sizzle Video
- DC Universe Trailer
- Mirror’s Edge E3 Trailer
- Dead Space E3 Network Trailer
- Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa E3 Trailer
- Valhalla Knights 2 E3 Trailer

Themes and Wallpapers (All Free)
- Resistance 2 PS3 Theme
- PixelJunk Eden Wallpaper
- MotorStorm Pacific Rift Wallpapers
- Siren Wallpapers (x4)

And yes, the Video Store is now available. I got a chance to check it out yesterday, it's quite nice. Easy to navigate and find stuff, but I didn't see the backgrounds change for studios, maybe its my Standard Def. Also, I found Walk Hard to be the only thing with a preview, much like in the presser.

via Playstation.Blog

Pikmin

They're working on it. That's all. Wii? DS? No clue.

Pearl Jam - "The Real Me"

Enough of E3 for a second, and let's focus on another one of our topics, music, yeah we cover that too. As you may or may not know, I'm a big fan of Pearl Jam. And tomorrow at 9 pm EST on VH1 you can catch them, among others, on VH1's Rock Honors: The Who. I won't be able to see it, cause I'll be at The Dark Knight. Anyways, here's Pearl Jam's cover of "The Real Me"

Sorry for that damn Sprint ad at the end...

I also viewed the other videos, by the Foo Fighters, Incubus, and even Adam Sandler; but none of them could match the energy of The Who like Pearl Jam did. This isn't even the first time Pearl Jam has covered The Who. They covered "Love Reign O'er Me" on the soundtrack for Adam Sandler's film, Reign Over Me. See how they're all linked?

Note: I got rid of the link codes at the bottom of the video, but my text shows there now, sort of funny.

Animal Crossing has Wii to DS transfers

According to this video demonstration from Gamekyo (formerly Jeux-France), you will be able to transfer clpthing and furniture from the DS's Animal Crossing: Wild World into the Wii's Animal Crossing: City Folk. Which is just really awesome to hear, even if I havent touched my Wild World in over 2 years now...

BioShock PS3 features

This comes via a 2K Games fact sheet:

"All-new PLAYSTATION 3 system exclusive content: In addition to the original revolutionary game experience, PLAYSTATION 3 system fans can enjoy a brand new difficulty mode – Survivor – as well as enjoy Trophy support as they explore Rapture. And the experience doesn’t end there – all new exclusive BioShock downloadable content will be available only on the PLAYSTATION 3 system after launch"

Nice to see the PS3 version will be getting new content, especially Trophy support. However, I can't imagine them being much different than the Achievements.

Guitar Hero World Tour Boxart

Here's the Xbox 360 boxart for Activision's Rock Band ... Guitar Hero World Tour. I can't help but think I've seen box art like this before, with the real silhouettes, but when I saw it last it was blue...

Huh, how'd that get there?

E3 2008 - Mega Man 9 footage

Yeah, a whole lot of it, via GameTrailers. Just a note, in the 2nd video the guy calls the boss Hard Man, and he's wrong, as Hard Man was already a boss.

Opening

Walkthrough

Level 1 Gameplay

Level 2 Gameplay

Various Impressions: MotorStorm

I only happened to catch one PS3 game tonight, so I'm sorry for all you PS3 fans, but I promise, more is on the way!



MotorStorm: Pacific Rift - While I don't have a PS3 myself, the original MotorStorm is the game I have played the most of on the console; so I'm pretty excited to see a sequel coming out. It even seems to have the same crazy destruction as before, only kicked up a notch with fully destructible environments! That's right, you can rip through the island that's based on Hawaii and just wreak absolute havoc on your fellow racers and the island itself. To go along with this new destruction they added a new type of class, monster trucks. If that isn't already awesome enough, you'll be driving through 4 distinct zones each with their own individual properties. Fire zones are... well full of fire I'd assume, vegetation zones are set in the forest areas, then with the ability to cool your engine are water zones, and with big ramps and lots of airtime are air zones. Oh did I mention the split-screen 4-player multiplayer mode? Yeah. It's gonna rock.

Official Sackboy papercraft

It's nt often you come accross official papercrafts, but when you do it's pretty cool. This one is direct from Media Molecule, and is a blank model for a Sackboy or Sackgirl from LittleBIGPlanet! Print it and create it as much as you want, they'll be accepting photos of your creations. Follow the image below

Be just as creative as the game itself!

Playstation Store - 7/15/08

Apparently the PS Store is going to be updated daily during E3. The Video Store should be up, but Playstation.Blog didn't mention anything of it. However the regular PS Store was updated:

Add-Ons
Rock Band
- Rock Band The Best of the Who Rock Band Edition Track Pack ($19.99)
(12) individual songs ($1.99/ea)
- Amazing Journey
- Baba O’Riley
- Behind Blue Eyes
- Eminence Front
- Going Mobile
- Leaving Here
- My Generation
- Good Looking Boy
- Sea & Sand
- Summertime Blues
- Who Are You?
- Young Man Blues

Super Stardust HD Team Mode Add-on - $4.99

Game Videos (All Free)
- God of War III
- Killzone 2
- Motorstorm Pacific Rift
- Xam’d Lost Memories
- Buzz PSP
- Resistance: Retribution
- Ratchet & Clank Quest for Booty
- PixelJunk Eden
- Siren Blood Curse
- PAIN Amusement Park
- Gran Turismo TV
- MKU vs DCU
- Blitz The League II
- Valkyria Chronicles
- Resident Evil 5
- This is Vegas
- TNA Impact! Wrestling

Various Impressions: Multi-platform

Here are some small write ups on a few of the multi-platform games. All of the following games are for the PC, 360, and PS3.

Videos of all 4 games set in a playlist:


Dark Void - An interesting take on the recent "cover" fad, Dark Void has you, a awesome guy with a jet-pack flying around shooting shit. Once you gather the necessary upgrades you will be able to fly freely and even hijack UFOs to fly yourself! The game is supposedly inspired by gears of war, and it shows. The twist is, the cover you're behind isn't on the ground, its on the wall. With your back to the ground you fire upwards at your enemies then once clear, jet yourself up to a higher ledge. It's a very interesting concept and should bring a fresh feeling to the old stop and pop routine. Their are various quick time button pressing cut-scenes placed in the game which you must complete to do certain actions such as stop yourself from slipping off a edge or stealing a aircraft. Oh yeah, can't forget the best part, the story! A cargo pilot gets thrown into a parallel dimension! Wooo! All made possible by the Unreal engine.

This Is Vegas - Riding the success of open world games as of lately is "This is vegas". But this one has a crazy angle! It's in Las Vegas... *Ehem* From what I could tell by the hands-on the game didn't take itself too seriously. While the gameplay wasn't really shown besides a mini-game or two, and I didn't get a extensive amount of time to watch the game, I did notice that the game had rather bland graphics, the textures seemed slightly lower resolution, and fuzzy, and their where no impressive effects as far as I could see. But I won't hold this against the game because it still has a few months before it's release in 2009... and that... is Vegas.

Star Wars: The Force Unleashed - This one is looking mighty impressive, and I'm guessing if you even relatively care about Star Wars you already know quite a bit about this game so I'll keep it short and just touch on the important points. The game is beautiful, and uses the euphoria engine, like GTA4 did, it was amazing there and I can see it will be here. Anyways, you will be able to level up and gain new powers for use in the combat system, which to me look quite complex. Also, for the sake of longevity they have added unlockables in the form of different costumes and lightsaber crystals. This game really looks like a must buy, for both Star Wars fans and non-fans alike.

Bionic Commando - A remake of the classic grappling arm game, Bionic Commando will be shipping to stores this winter. But will it be worth the buy? I can't tell yet, but I can say that it looks pretty damn fun. While the stages look linear, the interaction with the varying environment through your bionic arm looks quite enjoyable. Throughout the gameplay I have seen, city-wreckage and a forest have been shown as environments. While traveling through these environments you will be able upgrade your weapons. If you get bored of single-player, there is always multi-player, with all the "average" modes of play. You will be able to use your hookshot like appendage in all modes of play, which sounds like a blast. The game looked easy to control, your gun aim is separate from your grappling aim, the grappling aim will automatically lock onto things closely the the weapon aiming marker and looks like it works quite well. You will be able to grapple onto all areas besides certain toxic areas, so their seems to be quite a bit of freedom. The movement didn't look as smooth as I would have liked it, if you don't jump on the first swing forward the animation seems awkward, but that is a minor complaint, the rest of the game looks very fun and I look forward to playing it later this year.

E3 2008 - Sony media gallery

We have a Sony gallery in addition to the Nintendo one over at Flickr. Just a quick apology, Flickr gives you very limited space (100 MB a month), and a lot of Sony's media is large; one screenshot of inFamous is about 30 MB alone! So I'm only able to include screens from Loco Roco 2, Patapon 2, LittleBIGPlanet, Resistance 2, and Resistance Retribution. As before, click the image below:

Yes, join us!

Various Impressions: 360

Here are a few quick eyes-on impressions of 360 games:

Rock Band 2: Rock Band two has a decent challenge set out in front of it. Beat Guitar Hero. So far from what I've seen, I believe it can do that. The developers have said they've improved the guitar peripheral itself, making the strummer sturdier and more precise, and the buttons quieter. The real upgrades are in the software though. The game is much more user friendly now that various upgrades have taken place, such as your band member is no longer tied to one instrument, your band does not need a leader to function, only a chosen storage device, and the ability to play songs in a rock music video mode, simulating a music video. The developer said that they listen to the fans, and to me it shows. Rock Band 2 looks to be more of the same, with little changes, like Guitar Hero 2 going on to Guitar Hero 3, only it looks good. This game is basically automatic fun, I don't think you need more convincing of that. This is looking like the way to go over Guitar Hero.

Fable 2: Now while I don't have any new info since the press conference, I would like to make a few comments on how I think Fable will turn out. First of all, I think anyone still holding this game up to their previously crushed expectations of the first game should walk away from that and start with a fresh and open opinion. Now to my thoughts, it looks like the emphasis is going strongly onto the way you and your world around you change. The ability to travel to another players game furthers this idea.



Peter Molyneux stated that the co-op wasn't focused on the fighting. So it's my guess that the focus of co-op is seeing what your world could have been, on how your decisions really do effect the world. Hopefully their is enough of a substantial change that it's worth going to a friends game to see how it differs. Now, stepping away from that, remember, I have not played the game, but from what I have seen I must say the combat looks fairly simple and pretty boring. Perhaps I have yet to see the advanced moves so I'll save judgement for that until later, but at the time being I am not impressed. Will co-op and the supposedly awesome dog be enough to hold this alone? Maybe the combat is better than I expect? We will have to wait and see.

E3 2008 - Nintendo media gallery

To make things easier both us and the readers, I've gone and created a Flickr account for VFH to show off images. This set is of most of Nintendo's featured titles from this year's event. To view them, click the image below:

Next stop, Nintendo!

Interesting note about WiiSpeak

Found this in Nintendo's E3 Press Release:

"Another new feature in Animal Crossing®: City Folk is the ability to visit friends' towns and chat with one another using the new WiiSpeak™ microphone. The WiiSpeak microphone is sold separately at an MSRP of $29.99 and allows Internet voice chat among Wii Friends – not just from person to person but from room to room."

It seems as if it is not going to be bundled with the game as most would expect. It's a decent price I think, considering the wireless Xbox 360 headset goes for $50, and the PS Eye (which can be used as a room mic) goes for $32. Though remember this is USB connected, and not wireless.

Considering that we already have handheld USB mics for Rock Band, Boogie, and even High School Musical; is the Wii Speak even that much of innovation to avoid a headset? ...At least we get plenty of wire....

Rhythm Heaven

Japan's Rhythm Tengoku series is coming to America, now renamed Rhythm Heaven. I'm really not sure how this wasn't in Nintendo's Press conference, but it was on their Press site!

KEY INFORMATION
Rhythm Heaven is a simple and infectious rhythm game that anyone can play. If you can tap your finger in time to music, you'll get the hang of Rhythm Heaven in no time!

• Players hold the Nintendo DS system sideways like a book and tap their stylus on the touch screen to the rhythm of the music. Players tap, slide or flick the stylus to hit the right beat.
  
  
• Rhythm Heaven features catchy tunes, charming characters and a wide variety of rhythm games.
  
  
• Well-known Japanese music producer TSUNKU helped direct Rhythm Heaven and composed the music for it.

E3 2008 - Sony Conference

Here's what was shown at Sony's Press Conference

PS3 Price Drop
-80GB at $399.99
-Has "same functionallity as the 40GB"
-Whether it means no back-compatibility is unknown

PS Video Store
-Launches tonight on both PS3 and PC's PS Store
-Movies and TV Shows available
-Rent or Purchase in both HD and Standard Def.
-Transfer to PSP

PS3 Greatest Hits
-Titles at $39.99
-Marked by a red banner on top of the boxart
-Also comes in a red keep-case

Playstation 2
-Still $129.99
-130 titles planned for release
-New $149.99 bundle: black PS2 w/ LEGO Batman, Justice League: the New Frontier DVD movie.

PSP
-New Entertainment Pack, $199.99
-Will include silver PSP, Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters, National Treasure 2 UMD, PS Store voucher for echochrome, and 1GB Memory Stick Duo.

Home
-Just wait a bit longer
-Worlds created just for games: Resistance, Uncharted, Warhawk.

Resistance 2
-Giant awesome bosses
-60 player online
-8-player co-op

Little Big Planet
-Still amazing
-Used to create presentation

Grand Turismo TV
-Via Gran Turismo 5 Prologue
-Free and PPV automotive programming
-Launches August 1st

Ratchet and Clank Future: Quest for Booty
-PSN game, $14.99
-Takes place after Tools of Destruction
-Shorter, with intense moments
-Bigger focus on puzzles
-Based on a movie type experience

Crash Commando
-PSN game
-2.5D side scrolling game

Fat Princess
-PSN game
-Beat-em-up style gameplay
-Stupid name

Flower
-PSN game
-No details, involves a flower

Siren: Blood Curse
-PSN game
-Demo currently available

Ragdoll Kung Fu: Plastic Fists of Fury
-Based on the PC game which launched on Steam

Resistance Retribution
-PSP game
-Takes place in Europe
-Third person shooter

DC Universe Online
-SOE developed MMO
-Fight alongside DC heroes and villains

MAG (Massive Action Game)
-256 players
-split into 8 person squads

Other new titles shown
-Loco Roco 2 (PSP)
-Patapon 2 (PSP)
-God of War III (PS3)
-inFamous (PS3)
-MotorStorm: Pacific Rift (PS3)
-The Agency (PS3)
-PAIN: Amusement Park (PSN)

E3 2008 - Nintendo Conference

Here's a list of what was shown during Nintendo's Press Conference:

Wii Music
-Over 60 instruments, such as: Xylophone, Drums, Piano, Saxophone, Guitar, Violin
-Sound based on Wiimote movement
-Record and combine videos of your performances
-Make music videos
-Form a band
-Noticed that 5 people were playing simultaneously, one of which used a Balance Board; however nothing was mentioned of how this was done.

Wii Sports: Resort
-Spring 2009 release
-Variety of activities
-Frisbee game, akin to that found in Nintendogs
-Wave Race type game
-Sword duel game
-1:1 motion

Animal Crossing: City Folk
-Holiday 2008 release
-Visit the city; auctioning building, fashion store, salon, and more.
-Play with a mask of your Mii
-Visit friends' towns
-Send letters to friends online to their game, Wii Message Board, cell phones and PCs.
-WiiSpeak community microphone, lets you and all your friends talk to each other online.
-WiiSpeak connected via USB, sits atop the sensor bar.
Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars
-For Nintendo DS
-Set in Liberty City
-Free-roaming, like the console titles.

Guitar Hero On Tour: Decades
-Yes, already.
-Share songs between Decades, On Tour, and presumably future game.

Other games shown
-Cooking Navi , Nintendo (DS, released in Japan and Europe)
-Pokemon Ranger: Shadows of Almin , Nintendo (DS, released Japan)
-Shaun White Snowboarding , Ubisoft (Wii, uses Balance Board)
-Raving Rabbids TV Party , Ubisoft (Wii, uses Balance Board)
-Star Wars: the Clone Wars , Lucas Arts (Wii)
-Call of Duty: World at War , Activision (Wii, uses Zapper)
-Spore Creatures , EA (DS)

Questions
-Where was Kid Icarus?
-Where was Pikmin 3?
-Where was Pokemon Platinum?
-What are the Mario/Zelda teams actually working on?
-Spring 09 seems far away for Resort; playing it safe?
-Is MotionPlus only used for that?
-Is Wii Music much of a game?
-What's new for WiiWare?
-Where's our storage solution?

E3 2008 - Microsoft takes again

Thought Coverflow and Miis were enough? Oh no, Microsoft is out to steal colors as well. Just a few months ago Nintendo released two new DS colors, of which were the same used for Revolution glamor shots. Today, Microsoft announced two new colors for the Xbox 360 controller...

I wonder where those colors came from...


...2005 you say?

E3 2008 - New Xbox 360 Dashboard

Here's some media of the new 360 Dashboard. Notice anything that's created by Microsoft? Like Apple's Coverflow, or Nintendo' Miis? Yea, me neither.

Here's a new trailer featuring the new interface:


And here are a few screenshots:

Enjoy your blade dashboards while you can!

Wii Shop Channel - 7/14/08

It may be E3, but it doesn't mean your getting something good on the Wii Shop Channel, see below:

WiiWare

Major League Eating: The Game™ (Mastiff, 1-2 players, Rated E10+ for Everyone 10 and Older-Crude Humor, 1,000 Wii Points): The ultimate chomp-off is about to begin. Grab your Wii Remote™ controller and dig into 12 different foods as you compete against the greatest major-league eaters in the world. This isn't just a race to stuff your face-you'll need strategy to master a smorgasbord of digestive attacks, defenses and counters. These include the Mega Burp, Gas Attack, Antacid and more. And don't forget to keep an eye on your Barf-O-Meter, because if the food hits the plate twice, you're out. Unlock more than 10 characters in single-player career mode, go gut-to-gut against your friends in versus mode, or compete online using Nintendo® Wi-Fi Connection. Online play supports friend codes, random matchmaking and leader boards.

Virtual Console

Donkey Kong™ 3 (NES®, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone, 500 Wii Points): Based on the third game in the enormously popular arcade series, Donkey Kong 3 introduces an exterminator named Stanley as he desperately tries to protect the flowers in his greenhouse from Donkey Kong. Armed only with a can of bug spray, Stanley must force Donkey Kong higher and higher into the greenhouse rafters until Donkey Kong is off the screen and the next stage is reached. Not surprisingly, Donkey Kong isn't going to move without a fight, so he sends wave after wave of bugs, bees and other creatures toward Stanley. Not only must Stanley repel the insects in order to save the flowers, but he'll also have to keep an eye out for projectiles thrown by Donkey Kong himself. If Stanley is good enough, he'll be able to grab a can of more powerful bug spray and really get Donkey Kong moving. It all adds up to frantic fun that anyone can enjoy.

NINJA COMMANDO (NEOGEO, 1-2 players, Rated E10+ for Everyone 10 and Older-Mild Language, Fantasy Violence, 900 Wii Points): NINJA COMMANDO is a vertically scrolling action game released by ADK in 1992. Players choose from among three ninjas-Joe, descended from the Koga ninja; Rayar, a woman who has learned the ways of the Iga ninja; and Ryu, descendant of the famous ninja Fuma Kotaro-as they pursue the merchant of death known as Spider, who plans to use a time machine to bring havoc to the world. The battle spans seven time periods, including the Stone Age, the Egyptian era and the Japanese Civil War era. Each hero features a variety of attack options in addition to their own normal attacks, including a deadly attack that inflicts damage upon all enemies on the screen, special ninja-arts attacks performed by inputting specific commands, and a powerful attack unleashed by taking on the "shape of the beast" when three scrolls have been collected. The game also supports two-player cooperative play, so you're welcome to bring a friend and enjoy taking on the evil Spider together.

via Nintendo Press Room

E3 2008 - Rock Band 2 tracklist

Here it is, the whopping list of 84 song, all of which are originals, no covers. And after looking at the list I wouldn't have it any other way, this game will ROCK.

Artist - Song Title - Decade
1. AC/DC “Let There Be Rock” 1970s
2. AFI “Girl’s Gone Grey” 2000’s
3. Alanis Morissette “You Oughta Know” 1990’s
4. Alice in Chains “Man in the Box” 1990’s
5. Allman Brothers “Ramblin’ Man” 1970’s
6. Avenged Sevenfold “Almost Easy” 2000’s
7. Bad Company “Shooting Star” 1970’s
8. Beastie Boys “So Whatcha Want” 1990’s
9. Beck “E-Pro” 2000’s
10. Bikini Kill “Rebel Girl” 1990’s
11. Billy Idol “White Wedding Pt. I” 1980’s
12. Blondie “One Way or Another” 1970’s
13. Bob Dylan “Tangled Up in Blue” 1970’s
14. Bon Jovi “Livin’ on a Prayer” 1980’s
15. Cheap Trick “Hello There” 1970’s
16. Devo “Uncontrollable Urge” 1980’s
17. Dinosaur Jr. “Feel the Pain” 1990’s
18. Disturbed “Down with the Sickness” 2000’s
19. Dream Theater “Panic Attack” 2000’s
20. Duran Duran “Hungry Like the Wolf” 1980’s
21. Elvis Costello “Pump It Up” 1970’s
22. Fleetwood Mac “Go Your Own Way” 1970’s
23. Foo Fighters “Everlong” 1990’s
24. Guns N’ Roses “Shackler’s Revenge” 2000’s
25. Interpol “PDA” 2000’s
26. Jane’s Addiction “Mountain Song” 1980’s
27. Jethro Tull “Aqualung” 1970’s
28. Jimmy Eat World “The Middle” 2000’s
29. Joan Jett “Bad Reputation” 1980’s
30. Journey “Anyway You Want It” 1970’s
31. Judas Priest “Painkiller” 1990’s
32. Kansas “Carry On Wayward Son” 1970’s
33. L7 “Pretend We’re Dead” 1990’s
34. Lacuna Coil “Our Truth” 2000’s
35. Linkin Park “One Step Closer” 2000’s
36. Lit “My Own Worst Enemy” 1990’s
37. Lush “De-Luxe” 1990’s
38. Mastodon “Colony of Birchmen” 2000’s
39. Megadeth “Peace Sells” 1980’s
40. Metallica “Battery” 1980’s
41. Mighty Mighty Bosstones “Where’d You Go” 1990’s
42. Modest Mouse “Float On” 2000’s
43. Motorhead “Ace of Spades” 1980’s
44. Nirvana “Drain You” 1990’s
45. Norman Greenbaum “Spirit in the Sky” 1960’s
46. Panic at the Disco “Nine in the Afternoon” 2000’s
47. Paramore “That’s What You Get” 2000’s
48. Pearl Jam “Alive” 1990’s
49. Presidents of the USA “Lump” 1990’s
50. Rage Against the Machine “Testify” 1990’s
51. Ratt “Round & Round” 1980’s
52. Red Hot Chili Peppers “Give it Away” 1990’s
53. Rise Against “Give it All” 2000’s
54. Rush “The Trees” 1970’s
55. Silversun Pickups “Lazy Eye” 2000’s
56. Smashing Pumpkins “Today” 1990’s
57. Social Distortion “I Was Wrong” 1990’s
58. Sonic Youth “Teenage Riot” 1980’s
59. Soundgarden “Spoonman” 1990’s
60. Squeeze “Cool for Cats” 1970’s
61. Steely Dan “Bodhitsattva” 1970’s
62. Steve Miller Band “Rock’n Me” 1970’s
63. Survivor “Eye of the Tiger” 1980’s
64. System of a Down “Chop Suey” 2000’s
65. Talking Heads “Psycho Killer” 1970’s
66. Tenacious D “Master Exploder” 2000’s
67. Testament “Souls of Black” 1990’s
68. The Donnas “New Kid in School” 2000’s
69. The Go-Go’s “We Got the Beat” 1980’s
70. The Grateful Dead “Alabama Getaway” 1980’s
71. The Guess Who “American Woman” 1970’s
72. The Muffs “Kids in America” 1990’s
73. The Offspring “Come Out & Play (Keep ‘em Separated)” 1990’s
74. The Replacements “Alex Chilton” 1980’s
75. The Who “Pinball Wizard” 1960’s
Bonus Artist Bonus Song Title Decade
76. Abnormality “Visions” 2000’s
77. Anarchy Club “Get Clean” 2000’s
78. Bang Camaro “Night Lies” 2000’s
79. Breaking Wheel “Shoulder to the Plow” 2000’s
80. The Libyans “Neighborhood” 2000’s
81. The Main Drag “A Jagged Gorgeous Winter” 2000’s
82. Speck “Conventional Lover” 2000’s
83. The Sterns “Supreme Girl” 2000’s
84. That Handsome Devil “Rob the Prez-O-Dent” 2000’s

Also, here's a better look at the new Stratocaster.

E3 2008 - Day 1

To keep the updates from overflowing and killing us all I will try to group together certain updates. I hope this is more convenient from you, I will try to keep things organized.

Star Ocean: Last Hope trailer up on Live it has actual gameplay so it's worth the download. The game looks like it won't stray far from the established gameplay, like what "Till the End of Time" had. Which is good.

Full Fallout 3 Trailer:


Wii MotionPlus announced
-Increased motion sensing, plugs into extension slot of the Wiimote and allows for 1:1 motion control and better understanding of movement and placement in a 3D space.

Do we get that extended glove too?

Tales of Vesperia demo is up on XBLM
-Beautiful Cell-shaded graphics
-Classic "Tales" combat system, still fun!
-Quality voice acting
-One of your teammates is a dog, awesome!

Copy games to your HDD!
-"Play from hard drive. Copy your games from the game disc and play directly from the hard drive. Not only will the drive not spin, but load times are quicker, as well. Of course, you will still need the disc in the tray to prove you own the game."

Start Downloads from your computer!
-Access Xbox LIVE Marketplace on the Web. Browse and purchase Marketplace content whenever you want from Xbox.com and it downloads automatically to your console. Purchase that new map, television episode, the latest Xbox LIVE Arcade game or set up a movie to watch when you get home from work."

E3 2008 - Microsoft Conference

Holy shit, that was crazy. The Microsoft press conference just finished and they had some giant news. While we'll go further in depth later, for now here are my quick notes:

Fallout 3
-Has oblivion feel to it
-Ironic humor galore
-The pop-in from oblivion seems almost non-existent, thank god!
-VATS adds strategy and almost turn based like gameplay, target and shoot, akin to Fallout 1/2
-360 and Games for Windows exclusive DLC

Resident Evil 5
- 2 player online co-op
-Simultaneous release March 13th, 2009

Fable 2
-The game is finished currently
-Your online friends appear as orbs in your world while playing alone in single player, approach their orb and interact with it to initiate co-op with them
-Your child will grow
-Out this October

Gears of War 2
-Graphics look cleaner, slightly brighter
-Flamethrower!
-Minimalistic in-game interface
-Much bigger scope
-Shield system, both organic and non-organic shields
-Ride a Brumak
-5 player co-op mode

Xbox Live
-New dashboard update this fall
-Avatars will be added and soon integrated into games
-Live party's with up to 8 players moving chatting and playing as one group
-Primetime game shows for your group
-Geometry Wars 2 next month, did I see 4 player co-op?
-Galaga legions, first true Galaga sequel
-Portal: Still alive coming to XBLA with new levels and achievements
-Community made games coming this fall
-Live partnered with Netflix, more than doubles the current available movie content
-Share your movies and videos online with your friends

Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise
-Scan pinata cards with the live-camera to get new pinatas
-Releases this year

Banjo Kazooie Series
-Original game coming to XBLA
-Nuts and Bolts will release this year

You're in the Movies
-Uses live-camera to put you onscreen in minigames
-Edits mini-games into cheesy B-movies
-Share movies
-Edit them yourself
-Comes packaged with live-camera

Guitar Hero: World Tour
-Wireless instruments
-8 player band battle
-over 85 songs
-REM track pack exclusive to 360
-Metallica's new album, Death Magnetic, will launch simultaneously on GH3 with the album in stores, and will be available in World Tour at launch
-Has Van Halen songs

Lips
-Coming this holiday
-Singstar like gameplay
-Sing songs from own music collection

Rock Band 2
-84 songs, all master tracks
-Guns and Roses will debut a song from their new album on Rock Band 2 titled "Shackler's Revenge"
-Rock band 2 will have a song by Bob Dylan "Tangled Up In Blue"
-AC/DC will be exclusive to Rock Band 2 with their song "Let There Be Rock"
-RB2 will have songs by: Devo, Modest Mouse, Pearl Jam, Metallica, and many others
-20 bonus tracks all free to download
-Most songs from Rock Band disc will be transferable to Rock Band 2
-Compatible with all Rock Band's DLC

Infinite Undiscovery
-September 2nd release

Star Ocean: Last Hope
-Spring 2009
-Trailer on XBLM

Last Remnant
-Comes out November 20th worldwide
-Also will be released on PC
-Pretty :D

Final Fantasy XIII
-It's on the 360!!!
-They are aiming for the PS3 and 360 versions to be basically the same
-At the time the 360 version is planned for release only in the west

Too Human Demo's Live!

The demo of the highly controversial Too Human was put up on XBL this morning. I've just finished my play through of it and have to say I walked away impressed. The game has been in development for pretty much over 9,000 years, on at least 3 consoles, and has caused countless arguments, between gamer and developer alike. Dyack and NeoGAF, I'm looking at you.

The combat, like told to us so many times before, is more Diablo then Devil May Cry. You basically hold the right stick in the direction of the enemy you want to kill and bam, you fly over and kill it. Obviously it gets deeper than that, a lot deeper. You can juggle your enemies into the air, use the right and left triggers to control your ranged weapons, jump and engage in air combat, use special war cry's that increase stats or give special abilities, or use spider skills to lay bombs and that sort of thing. This will take some time to master, that's for sure.

Now, while the combat is not as action packed as Devil May Cry, it still holds its own, and makes you feel like you are really kicking ass. Which is good. I had a lot of fun with juggling enemies, both with guns and my awesome hammer, which I will never see again. : ( But that brings me to one of the the main points of Too Human, the loot. I only saw a few pieces of armor and weapons, but they seem to be very different and vary in aesthetics as well as stats/abilities. Hopefully when the game launches their is enough loot to keep most people playing for long after the single player is over.

Sadly the other main component of the game, co-op, is not available in the demo, so I cannot comment on it. But needless to say the skill combination feature has me excited and I can already see how co-op play will be a blast. Overall I came away relieved, after all the negative press the game really delivered after all. The story, while not very clear with only a hour into the game, seemed... well not great, but the gameplay is fun, and the loot is varied. These look like the makings of a good hack-and-slash.

Go give the demo a download for yourself, the opinion on this has been extremely varied, or if you're a silver member, just wait it out a few days, you can make it, I believe in you, even if nobody else does. *thumbs up* By the way, did you notice I didn't mention the oh so talked about camera, the graphics, or the animation? That's because while none of them are amazing by any means, they get the job done and don't get in your way. Just because they mentioned the camera doesn't mean anyone should base their opinion on it. Keep a open mind!

Too Human launches for the Xbox 360 on August 19, 2008.

Zombie garden sculpture

I normally wouldn't post something like this, but it just cracks me up, a lot. I found this on Gizmodo, it's a garden decoration that's sure to scare pretty much anyone away. I'm impressed with the detail they got on this thing.

I don't have a garden, but if it means I can get this, I'll go out and make one right now!

via Gizmodo

Marvelous and XSEED: The E3 story

Marvelous and XSEED announced their E3 lineup, which is very impressive in my opinion. Here's the rundown:

Avalon Code DS is a action rpg, which sounds quite interesting to me. The game is going to feature the ability "modify the rules of engagement during battle as well as weapon and monster attributes.". While It's not specified as to really to what extent you are able to modify these things, or any other details really, I could still see this being very interesting. I'll be looking for it in the flood of E3 info.

The second game mentioned is one I have been excited about since I got the first installment; Rune Factory: Frontier Wii. This Harvest Moon spin-off will feature a open-ended structure, improved graphics, and innovative controls. Oh Rune Factory, you had me at Harvest Moon spin-off.

Now I know I have said I'm excited for both games so far, but this one I really cannot wait for, this is on of my most anticipated games for the rest of 08, Little Kings Story Wii, the game previously known as Project O looks to have a crazy gameplay mix of life-simulation, real-time strategy, and adventure all presented in a story book/colored pencil art style. It looks completely stunning. Graphically and gameplay wise. I look forward to managing my townspeople and building one kick ass town this winter.

Valhalla Knights 2, (Psp) is a action rpg sequel to Valhalla Knights, with more spells, items, races, classes, all surrounding a new story. The standout feature of this sequel seems to be the 2 player co-op tho.

Populous DS is god sim game, based on the original PC game. Utilizing both screens, as well as touch control you will take control of 5 unique elementally imbued gods. Both single and 4 player multiplayer are included. Sounds pretty neat, while I've never played any of the games in the series, I personally liked black and white, so here's to hoping its somewhat like that.

Korg DS-10 is to be a music creation program designed after the Korg MS-10 music synthesizer. The press release states that no effort was spared in the replication of creating high quality sounds. The touch screen is going to be utilized to get the control as close to authentic as possible and up to 8 DS units can be connected via LAN to play together or exchange sounds. The game will be released this fall.

The final game listed is Retro Game Challenge. The game is touted as having progression via story, and short challenges in a variety of fictional retro-games. Shooting, racing, RPG, action, all the classic genres. It's reviewed at 33/40 in Famitsu, this looks like it should be quite a bit of fun. It's the game based off Game Center CX, which apparently is coming here as Retro Game Master.

There you have it, a fairly solid E3 lineup. Hopefully all of these games deliver! So many great games are coming out lately, the ratio of money to games is not looking good for me at the moment. I'll have a ton of catch up to play next year.

Image via IGN

Batman: Gotham Knight review

Here it is, after two long years, View From Heaven finally has a new anime review! With it you will also notice a new anime banner style. For example:

Old Banner style


New Banner style

I'm still debating whether or not I should make new banners for all animes, even though I know I really should. Anyways, back to why I'm here. I finally got around to purchasing a new anime, it may not be what you'd expect, but it's anime no less. I really enjoyed the Gotham Knight shorts, and i hope you check this review out. Its not like you've read a new VFH Anime review in the last two years right?

Note: The review only focuses on the anime aspect of the set, so nothing about the featurettes on Bob Kane or Batman's Villians in noted, nor are the 4 episodes of Batman The Animated Series, it is strictly the anime part.

Batman: Gotham Knight review - Classic VFH

----------------
UPDATE (3/22/10) VFH Classic is dead; while this review was unrestorable from the web, I luckily somehow had it saved on my computer:

Overview
The third of the DC Universe direct-to-video series, Batman: Gotham Knight is different because it is a series of six short anime films. Each story is by buy a different artist, writer, and staff; with four studios contributing. The studios are Studio 4°C, Production I.G., Bee Train, and Madhouse; with Studio 4°C and Madhouse providing two shorts each. Each segment has a completely different style, but some consistencies are had. For instance, there is a constant story of a power struggle between Italian and Russian mafias, elements and characters of the story appear with in each short, and the voice cast is consistent; with Kevin Conroy ,who voiced Batman/Bruce Wayne in The Animated Series, reprising he role.Instead of covering the film as a whole, I will review it short by short.

Have I Got A Story For You
From Studio 4°C, this first is probably the most creative of the shorts. The story is about how three kids tell their encounters with Batman to a fourth character. Each story creates a different image of Batman; the first being a demonic shadowy figure, the next almost emulating Man-Bat, and the last being a robot. But Batman himself soon crashes in, and smoke fills the room, and the only one who can see Batman is the fourth kid. The direction was very similar to an episode of The Animated Series, "Legends of the Dark Knight". I happened to really enjoy this one because of the variety and style, which makes it much different from the rest.
Score: 9/10

Crossfire
From Production I.G., this follows two cops from Gotham City Police Department's Major Crime Unit (MCU), Crispus Allen and Anna Ramirez. Both are leery of Batman's activity, with Crispus persisting that The Bat is a vigilante, where Anna wants to defend him. Lt. Gordon sends the two out to bring in a criminal, and they soon find them selves in the middle of a fire fight between the Italians and Russians. This one was decent, and it is important as it introduces Lt. Gorden, Crispus, Anna, and the Italian Mafia (led by Sal Moroni) and the Russian Mob (led by a man known as "The Russian"), all of which play important roles in the later shorts. As for the portrayal of Batman, this one is much more traditional, but you don't see too much of him to really get a feel for him.
Score: 6/10

Field Test
From Bee Train, this film focuses on Bruce Wayne more so than Batman. It starts out with Bruce and Lucius Fox testing out a new electromagnetic weapon, with the capability of deflecting bullets. Bruce decides to first use it out on the golf course, in order to make his opponent look bad. After receiving a tip about the Italians and Russians out at sea, he dons his Bat suit and pursues the ships. After rounding the groups together, he grabs old of the two bosses and demands they settle their differences. All is well, but one grunt doesn't gets the message and fire, but with Batman's new gadget the bullet ricochets and hits a nearby thug. It's hear that Batman's human side comes in and rushes the man to the hospital. He later decides that he must put his own life on the line, and no one else's, leaving the gadget behind. It was nice to get to see Bruce for a change, thought hearing Conry trying to sound younger seemed a little forced. The Bat suit of this short is also a little strange, with a beak-like mask and oversized chest plate.
Score: 6.5/10

In Darkness Dwells
From Madhouse, this is probably the darkest film of the set. It portrays Batman as a stout, grumpy, demon-like man, almost contrary to all other portrayals of him in the film. Batman is given word of an 8 foot tall reptilian like creature lurking the sewers, and he believes Scarecrow's toxin gas is causing whatever the creature is, to act this way. Soon after his exploration of the sewers, Batman is attacked by an infected Killer Croc, who bites Batman and injects the Scarecrow's toxins into him. Woozy, he persists on through the sewers, and hears chants being led by the Scarecrow, and sees the group has held a Cardinal hostage. Batman confronts the Scarecrow, blowing up the sewers, and saves the hostage. It was nice to see a short that really referenced Batman Begins in story, even if it didn't do so visually. The dark portrayal of the characters also made it feel closer to Batman Begins.
Score: 7.5/10

Working Through Pain
The second film from Studio 4°C, this starts of with an injured Batman trying to escape the sewers, and realizing he has been wounded in his abdomen. As he tries to heel it, he is overcome with pain and recalls a time when he was aiding a wounded man, and rethinks of how he overcame his pain. It is here he remembers when he was in India, and he met with a spiritual woman named Cassandra. He wanted her to teach him way to overcome pain, but he then learns that he can never escape it. Back as Batman, he persues back to the surface, and gives Alfred a call. But while still in the sewer he starts to find guns, including one thrown in there during Field Test. I personally really liked this portrayal of Batman, because it really shows that he can suffer the same pain as everyone else. I also really and enjoyed the single tone coloring style used, especially in contrast with the heavy black tones of Madhouse's work. I also felt the Indian setting was a nice change from the slums of Gotham.
Score: 9.5/10

Deadshot
The second film from Madhouse and finale of this collection, this focuses of the short's titular character, Deadshot, a hired assassin. Cut to Wayne Manor, where Bruce is studying he new found gun collection, and discusses with Alfred of how he refuses to use guns, but can understand their appeal. We then find out that Deadshot is hired by the Mafia to take out Lt. Gordon is order to get Batman's attention. Thanks to Batman, he misses Gordon, but still gets his chance at Batman. They duke it out on a high speed train, and when Deadshot's tool of destruction are ruined, he's left helpless, and Batman rides off. This certainly was the story that Warner wanted to focus on, as it is used on the cover on released versions of the film. And it certainly is the most traditional looking Bat suit of the entire series of shorts. However I personally did like like the art style used, as it just didn't work that well on human characters. But at the same time this was a very good culmination to the set, and should flow well into The Dark Knight.
Score: 8/10

Final Thoughts
Batman: Gotham Knight is the first ever DC Universe anime, and it certainly stands out amongst the other DC animated projects, as there's just nothing like it. And what makes this different from Warner's previous anime project, The Animatrix, is the fact that Gotham Knight follows a consistent story. So that even with an entirely different team working from film to film, the story flows really well, and characters seem to evolve. It creates a great sense of variety while still keeping it self together. It's a must buy for Batman and anime fans alike. Even if you aren't a fan of anime, but like Batman, this is a great way to get you to appreciate the medium.

Overall: 8/10

Out with the old, In with the new

Much like the 60GB price cut before it; Microsoft has gone and cut the price of the 20GB Xbox 360 Pro in order to bring in the new 60GB Xbox 360 Pro. A smart move, especially when they're really pushing that Video Marketplace, and with Digital Distribution's ever expanding market.

Available in early August (I assume after a big shtick at E3), the new 60GB will retail for $349, the previous price of the 20GB. And the 20GB will retail at the Wii-savy price of $299. However, the $279, and reasonably shafted Xbox 360 Arcade, as well as the $449 Elite with not have there prices affected.

Personally the announcement doesn't excite me too much. If had to get a 360 I'd get an Elite, because for the money, 120GB of space is oh so worth it. Considering $500 gets you 80GB on the PS3, but at least there's slots for common memory devices (Memory Stick, Compact Flash, SD card) and not one specific 256MB card...

Info via Xbox.com

Rock Band 2 footage

Some new footage of Rock Band 2, which I'll say right now is my choice in the coming music game war. It's feature's Foo Fighters - "Everlong", and a noticeably flashier feel, especially with the music video style seizure-inducing flashes.