RipTen Videogame Blog » PSP

UMD Passport Will Not Come To America

Chris Gravelle — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 20:00:15 +0000

Sony has decided that the UMD Passport will not come to America. Basically the passport allowed PS Vita owners to pay a fee to transfer their PSP games on UMD to their Vita for a fee. The fees ranged from around $7.00 to $13.00. Here is the closest thing to a press release currently available:

“SCEA will not be offering the UMD Passport program. U.S. consumers who already own digital versions of select PSP titles will be able to seamlessly transfer those games to their PS Vita system. What’s great for PS Vita owners is that they can enjoy PSP games with upscaled video quality that’s ideal for the system’s 5-inch OLED screen, along with controls that are optimized for its features such as the dual analog sticks. More than 250 PSP titles (including minis) will be available at the launch of PS Vita, and hundreds of additional titles will be available post-launch.”

See the part at the very start? That’s all you get. While I can understand that this program would only affect a small percentage of the population, it is a bit of a slap in the face to the Sony faithful. The PSP was a great system, but did not see the same success of Nintendo’s handheld systems. This may not be an issue for most Vita owners, but wouldn’t you love to put Tactics Ogre or FFIV: Complete on your new system while you wait for the library to expand? UMDs are very cheap if you find them used these days, unfortunately, unless you keep your original PSP you’ll need to start paying the digital price on them. Basically, not cheap. Still, the Vita is launching with a respectable line up of games, so how many of you are honestly upset about this?

[Source Giant Bomb]

Sony: Re-branding the Way We Talk About the Way We Talk

Michael Futter — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 04:00:30 +0000

When you wake up on Wednesday, February 8, and stumble to your Playstation 3, you’ll notice something a little different on your XMB.

Sony recently announced a re-branding of the Playstation Network. The online service, which enables gaming over the internet on the PS3, along with music and movie streaming, will be re-branded as the Sony Entertainment Network. This change will impact only the Playstation 3 and the Vita , but not the PSP. It’s a confusing move for those that don’t plan on upgrading to the new handheld right away.

You won’t need to do anything. Your password, games and saves will all be exactly where you left them. The purpose, according to a Sony rep, is to unify the gaming services with other Sony products… except for the PSP.

I was struck, though, by how similar the name sounded to Nintendo’s first home console. Perhaps Sony is planning on dumping the Playstation brand for something else. Could the “Sony Entertainment System” be looming in our future?

New Video Game Releases: Feb. 6 – Feb. 12

Garrett Hartman — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 18:00:28 +0000

Finally, the type of Rock’em Sock’em release week that is fun to write about. While maybe not the Superbowl of release weeks, with so many big and varied releases, it could easily be mistaken for a busy November release week. Let’s take a look at a few of the notable releases of this week.

Kingdoms of Amalur Reckoning is a single-player action role-playing game put together by a dream team including executive designer Ken Rolston (lead designer of The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind and The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion), story writer R.A. Salvatore (celebrated fantasy writer), artist Todd McFarlane (creator of Spawn and famous comic book artist) and Big Huge Game owner Curt Shilling (Hall of Fame MLB pitcher and gaming enthusiast). With a team like this and great early reviews, you’d be fool not to pick it up for PC, PS3 and Xbox 360.

The Darkness II revisits the ongoing saga of possessed mobster Jackie Estacado from 2007′s hit The Darkness. Promising interesting new gameplay tweaks, such as the ability to quad wield and increased use of darklings, this is indeed a promising release to look for on PC, 360 and PS3.

For gamers looking for more Batman there is Gotham City Imposters. While not featuring the Gotham’s Caped Crusader, the game will be played from the perspective of two teams each trying to kill the other: one with people dressed like Batman and the other with people dressed like The Joker. Players will be able to customize their costumes, gadgets and other aspects of the game with 8 player action that takes place with an over-the-top visual style. Gotham City Imposters releases this week on XBLA, PSN and PC.

Shank 2 sees the return of avenging assassin Shank. Once again Shank is forced to go on the offensive as those closest to him come under atteck. Using an arsenal including dual handguns, chainsaws, machetes, plus all-new weapons and a brand new set of moves to protect those close to him, his enemies don’t stand a chance. Shank 2 releases this week on XBLA,PC and PSN.

Pick of the Week: I am a big fan of 2007′s The Darkness. At the time it had breathtaking graphics, an offbeat style and gameplay mechanics to make it both unique and satisfying. At the same time, it would be hard to overlook the pedigree of the team that put together Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning. It’s a close one, but Reckoning by a nose - Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning

Below is the full list of new releases.

PlayStation 3

Dance Magic
Fallout: New Vegas – Ultimate Edition
Gotham City Impostors (PSN)
Jak and Daxter Collection
Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning
Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning CE
Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Generations
Shank 2 (PSN)
The Darkness II
The Darkness II LE
The House of the Dead III (PSN)
The Simpsons Arcade Game (PSN)

Xbox 360

Dance Magic
Fallout: New Vegas – Ultimate Edition
Forza Motorsport 4: February American Le Mans Series Pack (DLC)
Gotham City Impostors (XBLA)
Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning
Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning CE
Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Generations
Shank 2 (XBLA)
The Darkness II
The Darkness II LE

Wii

NADA

Gotham City Impostors
Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning
Shank 2
The Darkness II
The Darkness II LE

3DS

Balloon Pop 2
Resident Evil: Revelations

Jewel Link Chronicles: Mountains of Madness

PSP

NADA

New Video Game Releases: Jan. 30 – Feb. 6

Garrett Hartman — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 20:45:57 +0000

Finally, a 2012 release week with notable anticipated releases. With offerings from such storied franchises such as Final Fantasy, SoulCalibur in addition to inspired DLC and a new IP release has January ending on a high note.

It can easily be said that Final Fantasy XIII-2 is the highest profile release of the week. While the series’ image is not quite what it was due to recent disappointments, FFXIII-2 adds a revamped combat system and promises less linear gameplay. Will it be enough? Find out this week as it releases for both Xbox 360 and PS3.

SoulCalibur V picks up 17 years after the events of SoulCalibur IV with new heroes and returning warriors clashing in an epic showdown between good and evil. This latest offering brings new charter customization and combat features including a new gauge that allows characters to execute “Brave Edge” and “Critical Edge” attacks. SoulCalibur V will be available on PS3 and 360.

NeverDead is a third-person action game set in a fantasy and horror-influenced universe where supernatural battles between humans and extraordinary creatures blanket a vast city landscape. The main character has immortalic regenerative powers re-assembling his own body to evade death. In the battle against demons he stands as humanities’ best hope because he is never dead. NeverDead creeps into retail on the PS3 and Xbox 360.

Dead Island fans will no doubt relish the return to the fateful Island with Ryder White DLC. The DLC will a offer a different perspective on antagonist Ryder White, enabling gamers to understand his motives by stepping into his shoes. It releases on the PC, 360 and PS3.

OOOOOH YEEEAAH! Some of the most beloved WWE superstars of yesteryear return to the Legends and SuperStars Pack DLC for WWE’12. With great wrestlers like Mick Folley and Randy Savage on the roster, it would be madness not to get this for the PS3 or Xbox 360.

Pick of the Week: I’m definitely interested in SoulCalibur V, with all the extra features and fighters. But I want to give Final Fantasy XIII-2 a chance. I still have found memories of FF games of generations past which weren’t completely tarnished by the crapfest of XIII. Square-Enix, this is your last chance – Final Fantasy XIII-2

Check out the full list of new releases below:

PlayStation 3

Dead Island: Ryder White (DLC)
Final Fantasy XIII-2
Final Fantasy XIII-2
WWE ’12: Legends & Superstars Pack ( DLC)
NeverDead
SoulCalibur V
SoulCalibur V CE

Xbox 360

Dead Island: Ryder White (DLC)
Final Fantasy XIII-2
Final Fantasy XIII-2 CE
Happy Action Theater (XBLA)
WWE ’12: Legends & Superstars Pack ( DLC)
NeverDead
SoulCalibur V
SoulCalibur V CE

Wii

Country Dance: Special Edition

Age of Enigma: The Secret of the Sixth Ghost
Command Ops: Highway to the Reich
Dead Island: Ryder White

3DS

Pro Evolution Soccer 2012 3D

Kids Learn 2Think: A+ Edition

PSP

Hot Shots Golf: Open Tee & Hot Shots Tennis – Get a Grip Dual Pack (PSN)
Motorstorm: Arctic Edge & Twisted Metal: Head-On – Dual Pack

New Video Game Releases: Jan. 23 – Jan. 29

Garrett Hartman — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 18:30:59 +0000

Another release week without, yet again, a full physical release title. Though this week won’t be a complete dissapointment with a few key digital releases.

PS3 shooter fanatics should should be thrilled with a PS3 release of the PS2 shooter classic Killzone. Disappointingly, Killzone will not be getting the HD treatment, but it should make for a great pick-up for those who missed out on the PS2 classic.

The PSN finally gets ScaryGirl which can best be described as wondrous adventure into a distinctive and beautifully bizarre world.

The Sims 3: Master Suite Stuff adds some sizzle to their home life! From stylish bedroom sets to spa-inspired bathroom furnishings to romantic new lingerie and hairstyles, your Sims will relax in comfort and style with this add-on available on the PC.

Play Oil Rush and engage in a global war for oil in the flooded post-apocalyptic world of Oil Rush, a real-time naval strategy game based on group control that combines strategic challenge of classic RTS with sheer fun of Tower Defense, all wrapped in state-of-an-art visuals. Oil Rush will be available for PC.

Pick of the Week: When Guerrilla games first released Killzone in 2004, it was created as a Halo killer. While it did not reach its lofty goal, it was still recognized for Amazing graphics and an intense gameplay experience. Being that I have never played the original, I will definitely pick-up this PSN re-release (although I’d be happier if it were in HD) – Killzone

Check out the full list of this week’s new releases below.

PlayStation 3

Assassin’s Creed: Revelations-Mediterranean Traveler Map Pack (DLC)
Killzone (PSN)
Scarygirl (PSN)

Xbox 360

Assassin’s Creed: Revelations-Mediterranean Traveler Map Pack (DLC)

Wii

NADA

Oil Rush
The Sims 3: Master Suite Stuff

3DS

NADA

Kids Learn 2Think: A+ Edition

PSP

Stick Man Rescue (PSN)

New Video Game Releases: Jan. 16 – Jan. 22

Garrett Hartman — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 17:00:17 +0000

The desolate winter season of new releases continues with such a sparse release week that if I were to not include DLC, would only have a total of three measly releases.

The big release this week is ScaryGirl on XBLA. Based on Nathan Jurevicius’ Scarygirl graphic novel, Scarygirl presents a wondrous adventure into a distinctive and beautifully bizarre world. Main character Scarygirl is an abandoned child with a tentacle arm who dresses like a pirate. Joining with friends such as Blister the giant octopus and Bunniguru the mystical, kung-fu rabbit she sets out on an off-beat adventure.

The other full game releases include Jungle Speed for the Wii and What’s Your Type? for the DS. Jungle speed is a twitchy, fast-paced card game while What’s Your Type? is an interesting game that helps you predict you and your friends’ personalities, using a combination of proven scientific methodologies.

This week we get DLC for major games like Gears of War 3, Saints Row The Third and Gran Turismo 5. Gears of War 3 gets the Fenix Rising Map Pack. Gran Turismo 5 gets two new DLC packs with the Car Pack 3 and the Spped Test Pack. Saints Row fans can go Genki crazy with the Genki Bowl VIII or go cheap with the free CheapyD Pack.

Pick of the Week: An Easy Pick actually. ScaryGirl wins almost simply by default. It’s off-beat style and interesting story should captivate gamers more so than anything else this week – ScaryGirl

PlayStation 3

Gran Turismo 5 Car Pack 3 (DLC)
Gran Turismo 5 Speed Test Pack (DLC)
Saints Row: The Third – Genki Bowl VII (DLC)
Saints Row: The Third – CheapyD Pack (DLC)

Xbox 360

Gears of War 3: Fenix Rising Map Pack (DLC)
Saints Row: The Third – Genki Bowl VII (DLC)
ScaryGirl (XBLA)

Wii

Jungle Speed

Saints Row: The Third – Genki Bowl VII (DLC)
Saints Row: The Third – CheapyD Pack (DLC)

3DS

NADA

What’s Your Type?

PSP

NADA

New Video Game Releases: Jan. 9 – Jan.15

Garrett Hartman — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 20:55:09 +0000

Now that we’re past the holiday season, we can start to look for an increase in both the quantity and quality of new releases. While the end of January no doubt holds promise, we are unfortunately saddled with a mediocre release week.

Arguably the biggest mutliplat release this week is Choplifter HD. An update of the successful 80′s Sega arcade and Master System hit. Choplifter HD distinguishes itself from other games in the genre as the focus is more directed at rescuing. Choplifter HD will be available on XBL, PSN, and PC.

Another title to look for is Amy, an innovative survival horror title from the original creator of the 90′s classic Flashback. Amy takes place in an apocalyptic future populated by zombies, demons and other unsavory types. The cooperative gameplay featured in Amy is a deep and unique system that requires players to strategize in order to protect Amy and keep both characters alive. Amy releases this week on both PSN and XBL.

Pick of the Week: The original Choplifter serves as one of those 80′s arcade classics that is still playable today and this HD modern update looks to be both entertaining and addicting. Meanwhile, Amy has more than a few features that make it unique and a pedigree you can’t deny – Amy

Check out the full list of this week’s releases below:

PlayStation 3

Amy (PSN)
Choplifter HD (PSN)
Deadliest Warrior: Ancient Combat
National Geographic Challenge!

Xbox 360

Amy (XBLA)
Choplifter HD (XBLA)
Deadliest Warrior: Ancient Combat

Wii

Carmen Sandiego Adventures in Math: The Case of the Crumbling Cathedral (WiiWare)

Choplifter HD

3DS

Crush 3D
My Pet Puppy 3D

What’s Your Type?

PSP

NADA

New Video Game Releases: Dec. 19 – Dec. 25 (Happy Holidays Edition)

Garrett Hartman — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 21:39:12 +0000

It’s a very magical holiday season as both Christmas and Hanukkah fall upon the same release week. Will the December blues continue with yet another bah-humbug release week or could a release from a galaxy far far away have gamers yelling, “Ho, Ho, Ho”?

Unfortunately, console fans get nothing but downloadable games while portable gamers get NADA (Nothing And Don’t Ask).

The most publicized release this week is easily Star Wars: The Old Republic, BioWare’s massively multiplayer online role-playing game based in the Star Wars universe releases to much fanfare for the PC.

The big multiplat release this week is Trine 2, a side-scrolling action platform and puzzle gamel developed by Frozenbyte. The online co-op adventure will be available on PSN and XBLA this week.

Over the past five years it’s been abundantly clear that Zombies + almost anything = big $$$. So why not Zombies and Vampires? Vampires vs. Zombies has nothing to do with the Plants vs Zombies franchise, but will feature addictive game play in the vein of the Farm Frenzy franchise. It will be available this week for the PC.

Pick of the Week – I can’t deny the the amount of fun that can be enjoyed from online c0-op action. Which is one of the reason why Trine 2 deserves a good. At the same time, the attraction to an online mmorpg which takes place in the Star Wars Universe is undeniable, despite $15 a month subscription fees. Star Wars: The Old Republic

Check out the full list of releases below.

PlayStation 3

Sonic CD (PSN)
Trine 2 (PSN)

Xbox 360

Trine 2 (XBLA)

Wii

NADA

Star Wars: The Old Republic
Star Wars: The Old Republic CE
Vampires vs. Zombies

3DS

NADA

NADA

PSP

NADA

Have a Happy Hanukkah and a Very Merry Christmas!

Metal Gear Solid 5 Sort of Confirmed Again, A Bit

Sam Naylor — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 12:03:25 +0000

Hideo Kojima has resumed his favourite pastime- teasing fans about the existence of another “proper” Metal Gear Solid game.

While at the press conference for Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance (possibly one of the stupidest titles for a game ever), Kojima answered a number of questions. As part of this, he said:

For those of you desire for authentic stealth MGS, I want you to patiently wait for the sequel coming in future.

So that’s Metal Gear Solid 5 confirmed then. Well, sort of. A bit. It’s a confirmation that something exists.

Twitter via Destructoid

New Video Game Releases: Dec. 5 – Dec. 11

Garrett Hartman — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 20:51:12 +0000

Another pre-Christmas December week means another quiet and sparse week of releases. If not for the release featuring a true video game icon, this week would be considered a complete wash. Let’s look at the highlights, or lack thereof, for this week.

Yep you’ve guessed it, the most high profile release this week is the anticipated Mario Kart 7 for the 3DS. Although it releases today (not technically in my covered release week), I left it off last week and it is definitely worth a mention.

If you are into the whole dance game phenomena then you have certainly heard of the Just Dance series. Just Dance 3 continues where it’s predecessors left off with new songs and this time allowing a quartet of dancers. While it released in November for the Wii and Xbox 360, this week at long last includes the release for the PS3.

Released to critical acclaim for the SNES in 1994, Final Fantasy VI was a landmark title for the role-playing genre and is now considered to be one of the greatest video games of all time. In 1999, Sony’s PlayStation was the lucky recipient of a slightly modified port. Now, via PSN, Final Fantasy VI is available for both the PS3 and PSP.

Pick of the Week: There are quite a few things to consider this week. For one thing, my girlfriend is a big fan of the Just Dance series and consequently, I am definitely a fan of the results. Let’s face it, pretty much anything that helps girls to tone up deserves praise, but you will never find me playing it.

Final Fantasy VI is a great game and deserves the praise heaped upon it through the years. Unfortunately, it may seem a little dated to many gamers.

Although I don’t have a 3DS and will probably never purchase another portable system, I can’t deny that I put in more hours of play into Mario Kart Wii than I did in any other game for Nintendo’s motion control system - Mario Kart 7.

Check out the full list of this week’s releases below:

PlayStation 3

4-in-1 Action Pack
Final Fantasy VI (PSN)
Just Dance 3
The Adventures of Tintin: The Game

Xbox 360

Defense Grid: Your Monster
The Adventures of Tintin: The Game

Wii

Drawsome Tablet
Fortune Street
Oregon Trail
The Adventures of Tintin: The Game

Defense Grid: Your Monster
Field of Glory: Decline and Fall
The Adventures of Tintin: The Game

3DS

F1 2011
Mario Kart 7
Nano Assault
Oregon Trail
Outdoor Unleashed Africa 3D
Outdoor Unleashed Alaska 3D
The Adventures of Tintin: The Game

7 Wonders: Treasures of Seven
Face Racers: Photo Finish

PSP

Final Fantasy VI (PSN)

New Video Game Releases Nov. 28 – Dec. 5th

Garrett Hartman — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 19:53:56 +0000

With many gamers just getting over the Thanksgiving glut and surviving the rush of Black Friday, we find ourselves in the sleepy pre-christmas release doldrums. Which is not to say there no releases nor that they are not worth a look, but pickings sure are slim.

The release of PS2 classics Sly Cooper and the Thevius Raccoonus, Sly 2: Band of Thieves and Sly3 : Honor Among Thieves should excite gamers on this sleepy release week. The Sly Cooper series is renown for solid platforming and gameplay which inspired inFAMOUS. You’ll find Sly available for download on the PSN.

Back in the 1980′s there was a force for good who looked over the Universe and fought for good. Five space explorers pilot five colossal robotic lions which, when needed, combined into the the unbeatable robotic warrior Voltron. Relive the classic anime (not the craptastic remake) in Voltron: Defender of the Universe on the PS3 and Xbox 360.

Pick of the Week: Quite an easy one for me. I’ve played the Sly Cooper series before. Plus, I was a child in the 80′s and thus understand the awesomeness of Voltron - Voltron: Defender of the Universe pawns imitator Power rangers all day every day.

Check out the full list of new releases below:

PlayStation 3

National Geographic Challenge!
Puddle (PSN)
Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus (PSN)
Sly 2: Band of Thieves (PSN)
Sly 3: Honor Among Thieves (PSN)
Voltron: Defender of the Universe (PSN)

Xbox 360

National Geographic Challenge!
Puddle (XBLA)
Voltron: Defender of the Universe (XBLA)

Wii

JAWS: Ultimate Predator
National Geographic Challenge!

NADA

3DS

Face Racers: Photo Finish
Jaws: Ultimate Predator
Nano Assault

DaGeDar
Fit It
Jungle School

PSP

NADA

New Video Game Releases: Nov. 21 – Nov. 27

Garrett Hartman — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 19:33:33 +0000

Thanksgiving falls on this release week and the past few weeks have given gamers much to be thankful for. With releases like Serious Sam 3: BFE, Batman: Arkham City at long last on the PC, The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword on the Wii and The Rock on the cover of WWE ’12 (The People’s Edition) it’s quite pleasant to smell what this release week is cooking!

The highlight of this release week is The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword for the Nintendo Wii. Yes, I included it in my NVGR report last week but with it releasing today, it deserves another mention. With an aggregate review score of 94 on metacritic, it is likely a GOTY contender.

Looking for a solid old school shooter? Look no further than Serious Sam: BFE. Sam is back and promises to deliver insane over-the-top FPS action. Look for Sam on PC only, baby.

Can You Smell What the Rock is Cooking? The WWE is back and better, mostly because it will include many of the all-time greats including The Rock, Mick Folley and even the Macho Man Randy Savage (a good number of them as DLC)! WWE ’12 will be available on the Xbox360, Wii, and PS3.

PC gamers can also finally don the cape and cowl of the Dark Knight as Batman: Arkham City finally becomes available on the PC this week.

Pick of the Week: The King Nintendo Fanboy Justin Berube will be proud. This is the first time I’ve given a Wii game the honors but The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword deserves it.

Check out all of the weekly releases below:

PlayStation 3

Final Fantasy V (PSN)
Spelunker HD
The King of Fighters XIII
Tekken Hybrid
Winter Stars
WWE ’12
WWE ’12 (The People’s Edition)

Xbox 360

Jillian Michaels’ Fitness Adventure
Karaoke Revolution: Glee 3
Karaoke Revolution: Glee 3 with microphone
Kung Fu High Impact
Puss In Boots: The Game
The King of Fighters XIII
WWE ’12

Wii

JAWS: Ultimate Predator
Jimmie Johnson’s Anything with an Engine
Fishing Resort
Karaoke Revolution: Glee 3
National Geographic Challenge!
Power Rangers Samurai
The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword
WWE ’12

Batman: Arkham City
Batman: Arkham City CE
Defenders of Ardania
Magicka: The Stars are Left
Minecraft
Serious Sam 3: BFE

3DS

Carnival Games: Wild West 3D
Cooking Mama 4: Kitchen Magic
Face Racers: Photo Finish
JAWS: Ultimate Predator
Nano Assault
Sonic Generations
WWE All Stars

Power Rangers Samurai
Tsumiki: Block Drop Mania

PSP

Corpse Party
Final Fantasy V (PSN)

New Video Game Releases: Nov. 14 – Nov. 20

Garrett Hartman — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 20:08:59 +0000

Another release week in November means another exciting week for gamers. With the conclusion of Ezio’s Assassin’s Creed Saga, the celebrated Xbox 360 revisit to the original Halo and Link’s return to the Nintendo Wii, gamers on every major platform should be happy.

With a release next Sunday, The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword is obviously the most high profile release of the week. With the anticipation of Link’s first tailor made Wii adventure, coupled with outstanding reviews and the fact that over 100 million Wii gamers have been waiting for a quality title for quite a while, you have to figure Zelda could easily move over 20 million units in the next year. Now that’s a big release.

The Assassin’s Creed Saga has played out through three different games with two different main characters. Ezio and his modern descendant Desmond who have highlighted the past couple games will make their last appearance in Assassin’s Creed: Revelations for the PS3, Xbox 360 and PC.

Master Chief, never before has such an iconic character had such a lackluster name. The original Halo redefined the console First Person Shooter by perfecting the control scheme and making it fun. With the Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary you can return to those glory days with upgraded graphics on the Xbox 360.

With giant dildo weapons, Burt F***ing Reynolds and Professor Genki, Saints Row: The Third promises to be what GTAIV wasn’t - ridiculously fun and over the top. Will THQ’s offering deliver? Find out this week as it releases for the Xbox 360, PC and PS3.

Pick of the Week: I have to admit, I am drawn like a moth to a flame to the Skyward Sword. Perhaps I can once again dust off my neglected Wii and play as one of Nintendo’s iconic characters. But something has happened since I last played a Zelda game. I have found other characters whose sequels actually build upon stories laid out by the previous iterations. Ezio is a character I’ve grown closer to and I can’t wait to continue his story in Assassin’s Creed Revelations.

Check out the complete list of releases below:

PlayStation 3

Air Conflicts: Secret Wars
Assassin’s Creed Revelations
Assassin’s Creed Revelations SE
Bejeweled 3
Burgertime: World Tour
Carnival Island
Dante’s Inferno Divine Edition
Dynasty Warriors 7: Xtreme Legends
EyePet & Friends
Heavy Fire: Afghanistan
Heavy Rain (Director’s Cut)
Jurassic Park: The Game
L.A. Noire: The Complete Edition
LittleBigPlanet 2 Special Edition
Marvel Super Hero Squad: Comic Combat-uDraw
Medieval Moves: Deadmund’s Quest
Need for Speed: The Run
Pictionary: Ultimate Edition
Plants vs. Zombies
Rayman Origins
Saints Row: The Third
Ultimate Marvel vs Capcom 3
Winter Stars

Xbox 360

Alvin & Chipmunks: Chipwrecked
Assassin’s Creed Revelations
Assassin’s Creed Revelations SE
Bejeweled 3
Get Up and Dance
Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary
Jurassic Park: The Game
Kinect Disneyland Adventures
Kung Fu High Impact
L.A. Noire: The Complete Edition
Marvel Super Hero Squad: Comic Combat-uDraw
Need for Speed: The Run
Pictionary: Ultimate Edition
Price is Right, The Decades
Rayman Origins
Saints Row: The Third
Ultimate Marvel vs Capcom 3
Victorious: Time to Shine

Wii

ABBA You Can Dance
Advanced Art Studio: uDraw
Alvin & Chipmunks: Chipwrecked
Fishing Resort
Heavy Fire: Afghanistan
Mario & Sonic: London Olympic Games
Marvel Super Hero Squad: Comic Combat-uDraw
Need for Speed: The Run
Pro Evolution Soccer 2012
Rayman Origins
The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword
Winter Stars
Zumba Fitness 2

Alien Breed 3: Descent
Dawn of Fantasy
Heavy Fire: Afghanistan
L.A. Noire: The Complete Edition
Need for Speed: The Run
Saints Row: The Third

3DS

Ace Combat: Assault Horizon Legacy
Carnival Games: Wild West 3D
Cooking Mama 4
Heavy Fire: The Chosen Few
Imagine Fashion Designer
Need for Speed: The Run
Shinobi
Super Mario 3D Land

Alvin & Chipmunks: Chipwrecked
Bejeweled 3
Beyblade: Metal Master
DaGeDar
Fossil Fighters: Champions
Ragnarok DS

PSP

Vanguard Bandits

New Video Game Releases: Nov. 7 – Nov. 13

Garrett Hartman — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 19:30:00 +0000

The first full week of November explodes onto the scene as perhaps the biggest release week of the year. Whether you are fighting your enemies in a large scale military conflict, sneaking behind them with the silence of a snake, or with medieval sharpened steel – this release week definitely has something for you.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 will undoubtedly become one of the best selling games of the year. Despite internal problems which involved the loss of most of the developing studio and subsequent lawsuits, MW3 promises a revamped online experience and a campaign which teases World War 3. Will CoD: MW3 live up to the hype? PC, Xbox 360, Wii, and PS3 gamers will have an opportunity this week to find out.

Few games have garnered as much attention as The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. The fifth installment in The Elder Scrolls role-playing video game series promises to continue the open world gameplay that has distinguished the series. Skyrim will be available on the PS3, PC, and Xbox 360.

Snaaake, SNAAAAAKE! The series that first first defined stealth gameplay gets an HD Collection with the Metal Gear Solid HD Collection. This HD collection includes Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty, Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater and the former PSP exclusive masterpiece Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker and releases on both the PS3 and Xbox 360.

Pick of the Week: This is a tough one for me. The Modern Warfare series has always distinguished itself from the typical FPS with frantic fast-paced action mixed with an absolutely shocking and awe-inspiring campaign adventure. I’ve also thoroughly enjoyed Hideo Kojima‘s Metal Gear Solid series. With among the craziest group of video game bosses and a main character inspired by Kurt Russel‘s lovable anti-hero Snake Plissken (from Escape from New York and LA), this series has never disappointed. But there is something to be said about Skyrim. The game has been enjoying a tremendous amount of hype and looks to be deserving every bit of it. Besides, I live in Bethesda Maryland, the supposed home of Bethesda Softworks (they are actually located in nearby Rockville, MD). So, this week’s pick? The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.

Check out the full list of releases below:

PlayStation 3

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (Hardened Edition)
Cartoon Network: Punch Time Explosion XL
Chrono Cross
Get Up and Dance
Happy Feet Two
Heavy Fire: Afghanistan
Heavy Rain (Director’s Cut)
LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5-7
Metal Gear Solid HD Collection
Metal Gear Solid HD Collection (Limited Edition)
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (Collector’s Edition)

Xbox 360

Big League Sports
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (Hardened Edition)
Cartoon Network: Punch Time Explosion XL
Deepak Chopra’s Leela
Fusion: Genesis (XBLA)
Happy Feet Two
Jonah Lomu Rugby Challenge
Let’s Cheer
Metal Gear Solid HD Collection
Metal Gear Solid HD Collection (Limited Edition)
Nickelodeon Dance
Raving Rabbids: Alive & Kicking
Self-Defense Training Camp
Sledge Hammer
SpongeBob: Roadtrip
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (Collector’s Edition)
The Black Eyed Peas Experience
Winter Stars
Your Shape: Fitness Evolved 2012

Wii

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3
Cartoon Network: Punch Time Explosion XL
Champion Jockey: G1 Jockey & Gallop Racer
Deepak Chopra’s Leela
Get Up and Dance
Happy Feet Two
Heavy Fire: Afghanistan
Jaws: Ultimate Predator
Pro Evolution Soccer 2012
The Black Eyed Peas Experience
The Kore Gang
Winter Stars

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3
Dawn of Fantasy
L.A. Noire The Complete Edition
Pro Evolution Soccer 2012
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

PlayStation 2

Pro Evolution Soccer 2012

3DS

Cave Story 3D
Face Racers: Photo Finish
Happy Feet Two
Jaws: Ultimate Predator
Outdoors Unleashed: Alaska 3D
Pac-Man Party
Puppies 3D

Bakugan Rise of the Resistance
DaGeDar
Disney Princess: Enchanting Storybooks
Happy Feet Two
Max & the Magic Marker
Moshi Monsters: Moshling Zoo
SpongeBob Surf and Skate Roadtrip
Ultimate Card Games
Wappy Dog

PSP

Cars 2
Chrono Cross (PS1 Classic)
Pro Evolution Soccer 2012

New Video Game Releases: Oct. 31 – Nov. 5 (Uncharted 3 Edition)

Garrett Hartman — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 17:17:09 +0000

Halloween falls upon this release week but you would hardly know by its offerings, unless your favored idea of a costume includes a treasure seeking adventurer, a British super spy, a medieval fantasy warrior, or a redneck hunter.

The most high profile release of this week is undoubtedly Naughty Dog‘s Uncharted 3. The follow up to 2009′s labor of love and near unanimous GoTY winner, U3 has large shoes to fill. Does it live up to the hype? You’ll have to read my review on Tuesday. Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception is a PS3 exclusive.

GoldenEye was the first game to truly define the console first person shooter. Winner of GoTY honors in 1997 and often regarded as one of the top video games of all times, so it was never a question over whether there would be a sequel. There were, but they never quite recaptured the magic of the original. So what to do? Remake the original! Goldeneye 007: Reloaded was a big hit on the Wii a year ago and will more than likely succeed on PS3 and Xbox 360.

Mordor, orcs, the Ring of Power and high adventure. The Lord of the Rings has delivered timeless entertainment since the mid 1950′s. The latest video game release The Lord of the Rings: War in the North promises to live up to the grand tradition when it releases for the 360, PS3 and PC this week.

They say good things come in threes, but three releases in the same week might be a bit much. Not if you ask Activision as they release three new Cabela’s hunting games! With the release of Cabela’s Adventure Camp, Cabela’s Survival: Shadows of Katmai, and Cabela’s Big Game Hunter: Hunting Party hunting season on your home consoles has officially begun.

Pick of the Week: Why beat around the bush – Uncharted 3 is incredible. Mix the perfect blend of action/adventure, platforming, shooting and an engrossing story with top notch visuals and what do you get? Another masterpiece. Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception

Check out the list below for all of this week’s releases:

PlayStation 3

Air Conflicts: Secret Wars
Cabela’s Adventure Camp
Cabela’s Survival: Shadows of Katmai
Generator Rex: Agent of Providence
GoldenEye 007: Reloaded
GoldenEye 007: Reloaded (Double O Edition)
Hasbro Family Game Night 4: The Game Show
Hasbro Family Game Night: Fun Pack
Hydrophobia: Prophecy
NASCAR Unleashed
NCIS: The Game
Sonic Generations
The Haunted: Hells Reach (PSN)
The Lord of the Rings: War in the North
The Lord of the Rings: War in the North (Collector’s Edition)
Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception
Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception (Collector’s Edition)

Xbox 360

Cabela’s Adventure Camp
Cabela’s Big Game Hunter: Hunting Party
Cabela’s Survival: Shadows of Katmai
Generator Rex: Agent of Providence
GoldenEye 007: Reloaded
Hasbro Family Game Night 4: The Game Show
Hasbro Family Game Night: Fun Pack
Motion Explosion
MotionSports Adrenaline
NASCAR Unleashed
Sonic Generations
The Haunted: Hells Reach (XBLA)
The Lord of the Rings: War in the North
The Lord of the Rings: War in the North (Collector’s Edition)
Twister Mania
Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?

Wii

Cabela’s Adventure Camp
Cabela’s Survival: Shadows of Katmai
Gem Smashers
Generator Rex: Agent of Providence
Hasbro Family Game Night 4: The Game Show
Hasbro Family Game Night: Fun Pack
Karaoke Revolution: Glee 3
Monopoly Collection
NASCAR Unleashed
NCIS: The Game
Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town
Trivial Pursuit: Bet You Know It
uDraw Disney Princess: Enchanting Storybooks

A Valley Without Wind
Cities XL 2012
The Lord of the Rings: War in the North
The Lord of the Rings: War in the North (Collector’s Edition)

3DS

Cars 2
James Noir’s Hollywood Crimes 3D
Generator Rex: Agent of Providence
NASCAR Unleashed
NCIS 3D: The Game

Disney Princess Enchanting Storybooks
Dora & Kai-Lan’s Pet Shelter
Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town
Team Umizoomi
Zoobles! Spring to Life!
Zhu Zhu Babies

PSP

Fate/Extra
Fate/Extra Limited Edition
I Kill Zombies

Final Fantasy Type-0 Opening Cinematic Will Crush Your Soul

Stephanie Gutowski — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 02:42:07 +0000

Square Enix, what the heck happened?! One minute, I’m reminiscing about my fondest Final Fantasy memories and then I’m suddenly staring at my computer, slack-jawed and horrified by yet another one of your transgressions against me. Final Fantasy Type-0′s opening cinematic is out in Japanese and I have no idea what’s going on, but I’m 99% sure that I want nothing to do with this game.

Once known as “Final Fantasy XIII Agito”, the developers have since dropped the numerals and the fancy Latin title. While I have to commend Square for the game’s beauty, especially considering this is all being developed for the PSP, I can’t help but be horrified by what I saw. Be warned, this is perhaps the most violent video within the Final Fantasy series. Blood, violence, and screaming, dying chocobos lay ahead. Yet I have no idea what’s going on. I doubt subtitles would make it any better.

New Video Game Releases: Oct. 24 – Oct. 30

Garrett Hartman — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 16:12:33 +0000

The final full week of October brings with it an innumerable number of releases anchored by one of the most anticipated shooters of the year – Battlefield 3. Whether you are looking to shoot it out or battle on the dance floor this release week has something for you.

The Battlefield series has garnered exceptional notoriety for creating enjoyable shooters which seamlessly integrate vehicles into online muliplayer play. DICE has polished Battlefield 3 to include an involving single player campaign so as to set a spectacular showdown with Modern Warfare 3. Whether or not they are up for the task will be evaluated across the world as BF3 and the Battlefield 3: Back to Karkland DLC release on the PC, PS3 and Xbox 360.

“Everybody dance now! Bomp Bomp Bomp-Bomp-Bomp!” In the history of mankind there have never been more dance games released in a calendar week. Whether it is Dance Central 2 (Kinect), Just Dance Kids 2 (Xbox 360, PS3, Wii), Grease (PS3, Xbox 360), or Country Dance 2 (Wii), gamers have options to find a dance game to fit their needs.

Other notable release this week include Serious Sam: The Random Encounter (PC), Back to the Future: The Game (Wii, PS3), inFAMOUS 2: Festival of Blood DLC (PS3), Dragon Ball Z: Ultimate Tenkaichi (Xbox 360), Kirby’s Return to Dream Land (Wii) and The House of the Dead: Overkill Extended Cut (PS3).

Pick of the Week: As a gamer who has purchased every Call of Duty game in the past five years, but has yearned for something more; Battlefield 3′s inclusion of spectacular vehicular action and a bold single player campaign is just too good to ignore – Battlefield 3

You’ll find many more releases in the complete release list below.

PlayStation 3

Back to the Future: The Game
Battlefield 3
Battlefield 3 (Limited Edition)
Battlefield 3: Back to Karkand (DLC)
Daytona USA (PSN)
Disney Universe
Dragon Ball Z: Ultimate Tenkaichi
Grease
Heavy Fire: Afghanistan
Just Dance Kids 2
Infamous 2: Festival of Blood (DLC)
MotionSports Adrenaline
PixelJunk: SideScroller
Puss In Boots: The Game
The Cursed Crusade
The House of the Dead: Overkill: Extended Cut
Worms Crazy Golf

Xbox 360

Battlefield 3
Battlefield 3 (Limited Edition)
Dance Central 2
Daytona USA (XBLA)
Disney Universe
Dragon Ball Z: Ultimate Tenkaichi
Grease
Heavy Fire: Afghanistan
Just Dance Kids 2
Kinect Sports: Season 2
Motion Explosion
Puss In Boots: The Game
The Cursed Crusade

Wii

Active Life: Magical Carnival
Back to the Future: The Game
Centipede Infestation
Country Dance 2
Just Dance Kids 2
Kirby’s Return to Dream Land
Puss In Boots: The Game
Trivial Pursuit: Bet You Know It

Arcania: Fall of Setarrif
Battlefield 3
Battlefield 3 (Limited Edition)
Dead Rising 2: Off The Record
Serious Sam: The Random Encounter
Stronghold 3
The Cursed Crusade
The Haunted: The Hell’s Reach

3DS

Ben 10: Galactic Racing
Captain America: Super Soldier
Centipede: Infestation
Fix It
Generator Rex: Agent of Providence
Horses 3D
Michael Jackson: The Experience
Pokemon Rumble Blast
Puppies 3D
Puss In Boots: The Game
Zoo Resort

Centipede Infestation
Monster High: Ghoul Spirit
Pillow Pets
Puppies 3D
Squinkies 2: Adventure Mall Surprize!
Tsumiki

PSP

Invizimals: Shadow Zone

New Video Game Releases: 10/17 – 10/23

Garrett Hartman — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 21:32:07 +0000

Holy Release Week Batman! The second week of October comes in on a “BIFF! BAM! POW!” with the release of Batman: Arkham City.

Warner Bros and Rocksteady’s masterpiece is the Dark Knight’s return and follow up to 2009′s Batman: Arkham Asylum. Garnering universal praise, Arkham City improves upon the original in every way, introducing new gadgets, villains and techniques with the much larger Arkham City setting. Batman: Arkham City releases on the PS3 and 360 (the PC version is delayed until November).

The Sims 3 Pets allows gamers to control pets. Now don’t expect just cats and dogs as this expansion pack includes horses, snakes, lizards, deer, rodents, birds, turtles and even unicorns. The Sims 3: Pets will be available on the PC, 360 and PS3.

Ratchet and Clank All 4 One takes place after the events of A Crack in Time and follows main characters Ratchet, Clank, Captain Qwark and Doctor Nefarious forced to work together to Escape the Creature Collector. Epect hardcore four player action and some of the craziest weapons out there. Ratchet & Clank: All 4 One is a PS3 exclusive.

Looking for co-op FPS action? Try Payday: The Heist. As an FPS with attitude, The Heist gives players six high-intensity heists to pull. Whether with an AI or live players, you are part of a four person team that must learn to work together against dynamic, adaptive enemies which make each scenario replayable. Payday: The Heist will be available on PSN and Steam.

Pick of the Week: Dananananananana Batman: Arkham City – you can’t go wrong with the Caped Crusader.

PlayStation 3

Batman: Arkham City
Ben 10: Galactic Racing
Everybody Dance
JASF: Jane’s Advanced Strike Fighter
Jimmie Johnson’s Anything with an Engine
Max & the Magic Marker: Gold Edition (PSN)
National Geographic Challenge!
Okabu (PSN)
Payday: The Heist (PSN)
Ratchet & Clank: All 4 One
Rocksmith
The Sims 3: Pets

Xbox 360

Batman: Arkham City
Ben 10: Galactic Racing
JASF: Jane’s Advanced Strike Fighter
Jimmie Johnson’s Anything with an Engine
Minute to Win It
National Geographic Challenge!
PowerUp Heroes
Rocksmith
The Sims 3: Pets
Tropico 4

Wii

Ben 10: Galactic Racing
Big Foot: King of Krush
Family Fued 2012
Gem Smashers
Jimmie Johnson’s Anything with an Engine
Jungle Speed
National Geographic Challenge!
Price is Right: The Decades

JASF: Jane’s Advanced Strike Fighter
Rocksmith
The Sims 3: Pets
Payday: The Heist

3DS

Pet Zombies

1001 Touch Games
Ben 10: Galactic Racing
Max & the Magic Marker
Petz: Puppiez and Kittenz
Professor Layton and the Last Specter

PSP

Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Impact
Speedball 2 Evolution

New Video Game Releases: 10/10 – 10/16

Garrett Hartman — Sun, 09 Oct 2011 17:46:20 +0000

The second week of October soars in on the wings of Ace Combat Assault Horizon with the power and beauty of Forza Motorsport 4 to deliver another big week of releases.

The most anticipated release this week is undoubtedly 360 exclusive Forza Motorsport 4. You’ve got to applaud any series with the stones to challenge Gran Turismo and Forza 4 looks awesome. With cutting edge graphics and added kinect gameplay/interactivity, don’t expect any less than a photo finish. Forza Motorsport 4 is a 360 exclusive.

Ace Combat Assault Horizon brings the intensity of an arcade ariel shooter with a story written by New York Times bestselling author Jim DeFelice. With combat locales including Miami, Washington, D.C., Dubai, Paris, East Africa, the Middle East, and Moscow, Combat Horizon will take the genre to new heights. Assault Horizon will be available on the 360 and PS3.

Dead Rising 2 Off The Record is a complete re imagining of Dead Rising 2 with original series protagonist Frank West returning as the hero available for the PS3 and Xbox 360. It features new missions, cutscenes, environments, enemies, and weapons and the photography mechanic from the first Dead Rising. Most notable is a new “sandbox mode” which allows players to explore Fortune City without the obstacle of time.

Other notable releases include Might and Magic Heroes VI for the PC, Skylander’s Spiro Adventure for the PS3, PC, Xbox 360, Wii and 3DS, Dragon Age II: Mark of the Assassin DLC for PC, 360 and Ps3, and Michael Phelps: Push the Limit on Kinect for the Xbox 360.

Pick of the Week: Normally, I’m a Zombiephile and find great pleasure in dispatching the undead. Unfortunately, the Dead Rising series has never quite satiated my desires. This week I’ve got to go with Forza Motorsport 4.

PlayStation 3

Ace Combat Assault Horizon
Cursed Crusade, The
Dead Rising 2: Off the Record
Dragon Age II: Mark of the Assassin (DLC)
Red Dead Redemption (GOTY Edition)
Rune Factory: Tides of Destiny
Sideway (PSN)
Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure
Wipeout: The Game 2

Xbox 360

Ace Combat Assault Horizon
Cursed Crusade, The
Dead Rising 2: Off the Record
Dragon Age II: Mark of the Assassin (DLC)
Forza Motorsport 4
Hulk Hogan’s Main Event
Kinectimals: Now with Bears!
Michael Phelps: Push the Limit
Red Dead Redemption (GOTY Edition)
Sesame Street: Once Upon a Monster
Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure
Wipeout: The Game 2

Wii

Dance Dance Revolution II
Go Vacation
Rune Factory: Tides of Destiny
Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure
Wipeout: The Game 2

Dragon Age II: Mark of the Assassin (DLC)
Might & Magic Heroes VI
Orcs Must Die
Sacra Terra: Angelic Night (CE)
Sideway
Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure

3DS

Harvest Moon: The Tale of Two Towns
Mahjong Cub3d
Professional Fisherman’s Tour: Big Bass Open
Marvel Super Hero Squad: The Infinity Gauntlet
Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure
The Hidden
Wipeout: The Game 2

Aliens: Infestation
Wipeout: The Game 2

PSP

NADA

Chrono Trigger Available Now on PSN

Stephanie Gutowski — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 22:00:43 +0000

Nostalgia alert!

Chrono Trigger, Square’s 1995 SNES hit is finally available for download on the PlayStation Network. Hailed by many as one of the greatest RPG’s of all time, fans can’t seem to get enough of these ports. Nintendo released a Chrono Trigger release on DS in 2008, but the Sony loyal are just now getting their hands on a port of their own.

For $9.99, this game can live forever on your Playstation 3 or PSP.