Franchise Glance: Metal Gear

In this new segment we'll take a look at some of the game industry's most influential and popular game franchises. Today we focus on the Metal Gear Series.

During the early years of video game development for Konami (then called Konami Industry Co. Ltd) they had great success. Arcade hits such as Frogger, Scramble and Super Cobra were all shipped to the United States in the early 1980's, and all were very popular in the states. It wasn't until a few years later in 1982 that Konami of America, Inc. was founded (currently knows as Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc.). A year later Konami began manufacturing and selling MSX games. MSX and eventually MSX2 were home computers developed in Japan and sold all over the world. MSX2 would be the home of the first game in the historic Metal Gear series.

In 1986 one of Konami's newest members by the name of Hideo Kojima joined the publisher as a designer and "planner" in their home computer division. At first Kojima was disappointed with his assignment working with the MSX platform, because he felt the Nintendo Entertainment System was superior. He was a rookie in the video game industry and his ideas were often overlooked. After working on a few small titles he finally got his big break. Kojima was asked to take over the project Metal Gear, and he never looked back. Kojima created the gameplay focusing on prisoner escaping and stealth combat.

Metal Gear was released in 1987 for the MSX2 in Japan and parts of Europe. The game centers around a special forces agent under the code name Solid Snake. In the game Snake is sent to the state of "Outer Heaven" to stop a nuclear walking tank known as "Metal Gear." The gameplay was all about avoiding enemies and sneaking around. A port of the game was later made for the Nintendo Entertainment System. This was just the foundation of the Metal Gear franchise story and gameplay.

Box art for the 1987 game Metal Gear

Because of the success of the first game, Konami choose to create a sequel, however they didn't involve Kojima in the development. Snake's Revenge came out on the NES, but wasn't up to par as the first one. Kojima was asked to created a true sequel and as a result returned to the Metal Gear story and developed and released Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake for the MSX2 in 1990. MG2 further evolved the stealth action from the first one. This time players had more options of gameplay. Snake could crouch, crawl into hidden places, use radar to see enemies and distract guards by knocking on different surfaces. Kojima took a break from the Metal Gear series and created numerous other games in the 1990's. It wasn't until 1998 that he made his triumphant return on Sony's PlayStation system.

Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake released in 1990

In 1998 Kojima became an international icon in the video game industry with the release of Metal Gear Solid on the PlayStation. MGS was the next installment from the first two games and featured 3D graphics and voice acting. It also had cinematic cut-scenes and a well developed story line of characters. Two years later in 2000 Metal Gear Solid (also known as Ghost Babel) was released for Game Boy Color and was an alternate sequel to the original Metal Gear. The game was set seven years after Snakes missions in Outer Heaven. It has been hailed as one of the best games for Game Boy Color receiving numerous "10 out of 10" ratings.

Metal Gear Solid for PlayStation & Game Boy Color

Shortly after in 2001 Kojima developed and released Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty for the PlayStation 2. The game had amazingly detailed graphics and physics. The storyline was extremal complex and involved themes of manipulation, censorship and even the flaws of democracy. The plot centered around a group of terrorists known as "Sons of Liberty" who seize an offshore clean-up facility. They demanded the death of the President of the United States and threatened to cause environmental disaster by destroying the facility they captured. Playing as Snake, gamers had to infiltrate the facility and stop the terrorists. The characters were also very detailed and featured the series newest protagonist Raiden and antagonist Vamp. A year later in 2002 Kojima produced and directed Metal Gear Solid: Substance. Substance was a multi-platform (Xbox & PC) updated version of MGS2:SOL. It featured new game alterations including extra levels and 300 virtual reality training missions. Some missions were even in first-person shooter mode.

Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty & Substance

A few years later in 2004 Kojima returned to Nintendo and produced Metal Gear Solid: The Twin Snakes for Gamecube. It was a remake of the first MGS game on PlayStation. Then in November Kojima released Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater for the PlayStation 2. Unlike the other games in the Meal Gear franchise, Snake Eater was set during 1964 in a Russian forrest, focusing on camouflaging and wilderness survival. The game's main protagonist Naked Snake attempts to rescue a weapons designer and destroy a super weapon in the making. Snake Eater was still all about stealth infiltration and featured comic relief humor. A year later in 2005 Metal Gear Solid 3: Substance was also released for PlayStation 2. Following the similar pattern of MGS 2: Substance it was an updated version. This time around Substance 3 featured an online multiplayer with tournament style game modes. Along with these titles, Hideo Kojima also created his own game development company named Kojima Productions to focus solely on creating games.

Twin Snakes, Snake Eater & Substance 3

Along with the platform games released in 2004 and 2005 Kojima produced Metal Gear Acid and Metal Gear Acid 2 for the PSP. These games didn't follow the typical Metal Gear style games, but were a turn based collectible card game. "Acid" stands for Active Command Intelligence Duel. Needless to say fans of the series weren't happy with the games and neither were the critics. They both received mediocre ratings and are the only card games in the Metal Gear franchise (thank goodness). A year later in 2006 the Metal Gear series was re-born on the PSP when Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops was released. Kojima wrote, and was the executive producer of the game. Portable Ops is set in 1970 in South America, six years after Snake Eater. Snakes former team FOX unit goes rogue and tries to kill Snake. The game has tons of action and an even more impressive story. In the end, Snake meets up with some of his former comrads and together they manage to defeat the top members of FOX unit. Like many Metal Gear games before, an online version of the game was released in 2007 called Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops Plus.

Acid 1 & 2, Portable Ops & Plus, along with Kojima Productions Logo

2008 gave us arguable the most impressive Metal Gear game of all time. Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots (written, produced and directed by Kojima) received numerous perfect scores and "Game of the Year" awards. It has been hailed as Kojimas greatest game, being called technically flawless. Some even claim it is one of the best, if not the best game in our generation. Guns of the Patriots is set in 2014. The worlds economy is dependent on war fought by PMC's (private military companies). These soldiers are equipped with nanomachines to enhance their performance on the battlefield. The network that controls these nanomachines is called the Sons of the Patriots, and the games antagonist Liquid Ocelot is planning to hijack the entire system. It's up to (an aged) Snake to stop him. MGS 4 also has an online multiplayer with games modes such as deathmatch, stealth deathmatch and team deathmatch to name a few.

Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots

The latest two games Kojima has been working on are Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker (see our preview) for the PSP, and Metal Gear Solid: Rising for PS3, Xbox 360 and Windows. Peace Walker lets players commands once again, Naked Snake as you and the Soldiers Without Borders investigate a mysterious military force loaded with a bomb called Peace Walker. The game takes place in 1974 in the defenseless nation of Costa Rica. MGS: Rising is the first game in the series where gamers will play as Raiden. He appears in his cyborg-ninja state similar to what he looked like in MGS 4. As of today no details of the plot have been released. Knowing Kojimas previous work, it's safe to say this game will be incredible.

Peace Walker and Raiden in Metal Gear Solid: Rising

In the game industry the Metal Gear franchise is timeless. Kojima has created such an immersive and in-depth story for gamers to enjoy forever. Snake is an icon and he'll always be remembered as the face of Konami and the PlayStation consoles. Everything from the stealth and tactical style approach, to the comic relief. Metal Gear games have evolved over the years, yet still seem to capture our hearts over and over again. Konami should always remember that they are forever in debt to Hideo Kojima for everything he has done for the them. I just can't wait to see what Hideo has planned for us in the future.

Questions? Comments? Let us know on our twitter

or e-mail me at Keith33Morris

-KM

Gamestop Posts Record Sales

Retail giant GamesStop (who just put competitor Game Crazy out of business) posts huge financial earnings over the first quarter of this year (ended May 1st). GameStop broke the $2 billion mark in sales these last few months. That's up 5.1% from the previous years. GameStop's software sales were up 13% while their total earnings were up 14%.

Yes we all know designers and publishers HATE GameStop because they sell their used games and make profits on them (while the designers and publishers get $0). But as consumers we should LOVE good ol' GameStop. When you have old games, or even newer ones (Halo:ODST) sitting around just collecting dust, who else will take them? GameStop of course. Yes they rip us off on trade-in prices, but some store credit towards another game is better than nothing (and a genius idea).

GameStop will look to continue their dominance as the number one game retailer. Don't expect them to take a back seat to anyone. Seeing as EVERYONE pre-orders games and even buys used ones, GameStop has no worries.

-KM

Fable III Collector's Edition

Today Microsoft confirms a holiday release date for Lionhead Studios upcoming role-playing game Fable III. Microsoft also confirms the game will be out on Xbox 360 and PC. The PC price will be $49.99 with the 360 price at the usual $60. But for $20 more at $79.99 players can pick up the Collectors Edition of Fable III.

The Collectors Edition will come with a deck of playing cards featuring characters from the trilogy (as seen above). Also players will get exclusive downloadable content that will include a entire new land to explore, a new quest to recover the sword of Wolfsband; an outift from the land of Aurora and a Boxer for your choice of dog to breed. All this in a SICK case that resembles an Old English book with the Guild Seal on it.

I love Collectors Editions, especially ones that give you tons of stuff. I'm extremely excited for Fable III and everything it has to offer. I plan on pre-ordering this bad boy as soon as I can, what about you guys?

Let us know your thoughts on our twitter

or e-mail me at Keith33Morris@aol.com

-KM

Heavy Rain Could Be Getting A Movie Deal...Oh Joy

Well gamers if your a huge fan of Quantic Dream's latest title Heavy Rain, then you might not like my opinions in this post. It was reported today that production company Unique Features is in the process of finishing a deal to bring Heavy Rain to the big screen. This is no sure thing yet, but each party is working hard to bring the movie to life. It has been reported that Michael Lynne and Bob Shaye spend their own money at an auction for the rights to the game. (Lynne produced The Lord of the Rings films).

I just cannot fathom why everyone loves Heavy Rain. Yes I played it, yes I beat it, but no I didn't think is was spectacular and a "must own" for PS3 owners. The game is pretty much one big quick-time event. I'm serious, you literally walk around and make decisions by pressing a few buttons at a time. Now look, I can appreciate a great written story and Heavy Rain does have that. But man, this shit is BORING. Besides the occasional fight or chase, this game is just plain awful to experience. Here's what it comes down to. If your looking for a interactive novel with little gameplay and great story telling, play Heavy Rain. If you want a bad-ass PS3 experience with TONS of action and a great story as well, play Uncharted 2, God of War III or Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots.

When I played Heavy Rain I was SO disappointed. I thought to myself, wow it took these guys 4 years to make this shit? The beginning was so awful I had to force myself to get through it. You brush your teeth, put on clothes and play with your (TERRIBLE voice acting) kids outside. The basic controls (including walking) were sketchy. Id try and move Ethan Mars down the stairs and into his kitchen, and it took me 10 minutes because he kept walking around in the opposite direction I intended. On MULTIPLE occasions the game would glitch and freeze. I'm not talking about a short little pause, no no no. I mean my entire system froze with Ethan's dumb ass standing there. This to date is the only game that has ever caused my PS3 to crash. Even the responses you could choose from in conversations were confusing. The choices said one thing, and then the character would do or say something completely different to what I expect. This left me pissed off and frustrated a majority of the game. Finally, the plot was completely predictable and didn't take long to beat the game at all. As soon as I completed it, I went to Gamestop and sold it.

I know I'm bashing this game, but really someone needs to. It was a depressing story with annoying voice actors, mediocre graphics, and no actual gameplay (oh excuse me, walking around and pushing one or two buttons together). The fact that this crap is getting a movie deal is sad. Oh well, I guess that's Hollywood.

What do you guys think? Let us know on our twitter

or e-mail me at Keith33Morris@aol.com

-KM

Super Mario Galaxy 2: Preview

The HIGHLY ANTICIPATED sequel to Nintendo's 2007 hit Super Mario Galaxy is set to be released May 23 (this Sunday). After the incredible success of its predicessor, Super Mario Galaxy 2 has a lot to live up to. The first game recieved tons of awards including numerous "Game of the Year" choices and many believe it's Wii's best game to date.

Super Mario Galaxy 2 like other Mario games, doesn't really have much of a plot (the same as always). Mario goes to the Star Festival with Princess Peach at the Mushroom Kingdom. On his way he meets Luma and you gain the ability to spin. As he arrives Bowser shows up and being the prick that he is, grows to a gigantic size and invades and attacks the Mushroom Kingdom (very original Nintendo). Like always Bowser kidnaps Peach. This time he fly's into outer space to create an empire at the center of the galaxy, and hold the princess captive. Mario being a simple Italian plumber is SOL until he is given control of Starship Mario from a Luma named Lubba. This is a giant planet in the shape of Mario's head. His objective is to fly across the galaxy, defeat Bowser, save Princess Peach, and help Lubba rescue the lost Lumas. Needless to say, this plot sounds like it was written by someone on shrooms, but I guess that's just Good Ol' Nintendo.

The gameplay will be similar, wait excuse me, the exact same as Super Mario Galaxy 1. It will be based on 3D planets that players can run all over. This time around you'll be able to jump from planet to planet easier because they'll be smaller in size. Mario will also be able to ride his pal Yoshi; who will be able to use his tongue to eat stuff, gain new powers (such as speed boosts, light up invisible paths and inflate like a balloon) and swing across gaps. That sounds familiar, like it has been done in EVERY single Mario game. Galaxy 2 will have a map this time around located in Starship Mario. Also collecting "Stars" are back, and the more stars players find will unlock new planets and abilities. This time around players can also collect comet coins too. Expect some similar, yet fantastic platforming in Galaxy 2.

Overall this will be a huge seller for Nintendo, and it will most likely receive great ratings from everyone. It looks like a complete replica of the first game, but I guess we'll have to wait until Sunday to find out. Expect a few new powers and new creative bosses. If you liked the first game then you should definitely buy this one. Or if your a casual gamer who is content on spending $50 on a game that could pass as almost an exact replica as the first, then go pick this up. If your on the fence about it, save your money. I know I will. I'm just completely done with the Nintendo Wii.

-KM

Pokemon Black & White New Details

A couple of days ago the new starting Pokemon for the newest games were revealed. Pokemon Black and White both get the Grass, Fire and Water type Pokemon to start with, but these new characters look well...lame. Of course this is just the first looks at them, but so far I'm not impressed. Here are their names.

Tsutaja- Grass Type

Pokabu- Fire Type

Mijumaru- Water Type

Along with the starting Pokemon, we also find out that players will be able to choose between being a male or female on their journey to "Catch Em All." Black & White will also be played in full 3D instead of 2D. The city of "Hiun" as you can see, looks great. Look for more info at E3 and throughout the summer. Check back here and we'll keep you updated

-KM

Bungie Extends Reach Beta One Extra Day

Ah this is the best news of the night! Bungie has decided to extend the Halo Reach Beta one extra day. They were planning on shutting down the beta tomorrow, but now expect Thursday to be the shut off date (around 10 am PDT). I hope you all have been pwning n00bs and taking names all month like I have, If not your missing out. This is flat out the best multiplayer experience Ive ever had, and it's only a beta! I'll be playing this game non-stop for the next day. If only it could last all summer. Oh well, September 1st will be a glorious day.

-KM

Call of Duty: Black Ops- World Premiere Trailer

As promised, Treyarch and Activison release a brand new shoot-em up trailer for Call of Duty: Black Ops. For the entire minute forty-two seconds I didn't blink and my jaw was completely dropped. This trailer is SICK. Enjoy!

-KM

Ghost Recon: Future Soldier Gets Delayed

Ubisoft's fifth installment of the Ghost Recon series WAS set to come out this holiday season. But being as Ubisoft pushes back EVERYTHING, we find out today that Ghost Recon: Future Solider will be delayed until 2011. This comes as no surprise to me, why? Well it's Ubisoft and they always do this. Look at Splinter Cell Conviction it was supposed to come out in October 09 and it just came out two months ago. Maybe Ubisoft chose to delay the game because of other big titles coming out the end of this year (Call of Duty: Black Ops, Halo Reach and their own Assassins Creed Brotherhood).

We all see that Future Soldier has the potential to be an amazing game. The live-action trailer was released back in March and needless to say, was INCREDIBLE. Ubisoft has made some great short films I'll give them that (Assassin's Creed Lineage and now Ghost Recon: Future Soldier's trailer). The only thing we really know about Future Soldier is that the story will take place mostly in Russia and Norway. However, the trailer did include soldiers with cloaking devices, shoulder mounted rocket launchers and tons of robot drones. Expect a new kick-ass futuristic experience from Ubisoft next year. Until then, we'll keep you updated.

-KM

Possible PSN Subscription Coming Soon

Well it looks like our superb (FREE) online play with the PS3 could be coming to an end this E3. For months now rumors have come up regarding a subscription for online play on PlayStation 3. But today we get some solid details. Like Microsoft and Xbox 360 who charge a monthly fee for online service, it makes sense for Sony to join in (especially since their financial status last year was awful). This sucks for us gamers, but shit what can we do about it? Be rebellious and not play online, or bend over backwards and pay the money. I guess I'll take it like a champ and pay up.

The service will possibly cost around $70 per year (or around $6 a month, again possibly). This compared to an Xbox Live Gold membership costing $49.99 a year or $7.99 for one month. But reports say that Sony may also give PSN subscription users something else to keep US satisfied. PSN members will be able to download one free game a month (out of a list of 2-4 games). Also members will get free access to a music streaming service that would allow gamers to play their own music while playing games. I just hope Sony gives us a decent list of games, something I'd actually WANT to play.

This is all speculation right now, but if it's true then look for the online service war to continue. Hopefully at E3 we'll have all the official information. Until then, we'll keep you updated

The online war rages on! Who will you side with?

-KM

In Defense Of Gamers: Workout Of The Week

I am so fucking sick and tired of watching numerous news channels bash gaming and how it causes children to become obese. I know you guys know what I'm talking about. You turn your TV to the news and see some fake ass reporter talking about how video games are bad for kids. Mmm lets think, parents use your heads. Your child can play all the video games they want, just make sure they exercise too. You don't take away video games all together. Or how about you monitor what your kids eat. Make sure they get a balanced diet. Don't take away the greatest form of entertainment out there.

You know why video games get so much shit from the media? Because they are a scape goat for society. We always point the finger at someone or something else, when really it's your damn fault your kids are overweight. Video games are an easy target, so people exploit them. It makes me furious to see web sights like this one . It's a site that's slogan is "Have fun playing video games while losing weight." Is this a joke? We don't play video games to lose weight. Besides all the desperate lazy dumb asses who paid $80 for Wii Fit (JUST GO TO THE GYM). We play them to enter other worlds and completely immerse us in a extravagant experience. If you want to lose weight purchase a gym membership for $19.99 a month and go run and lift weights.

All I'm saying is video games aren't the cause of obesity, people are. If you eat a healthy balanced diet and workout daily, then you'll be in good shape with or without video games in your life. So all my game nerds out there pick up your controllers and keep playing. In defense of my fellow gamers, here is the Workout Of The Week. Keep gaming people, and fuck what people say about video games. But if you wanna get in shape here's a workout that'll help tone up your arms.

Bicep/Tricep Workout

Do each exercise in order. 4 sets each followed by the reps in each set. Use whatever weight is right for you. Heavier weight and low reps creates bulk muscle, while light weight and high reps creates lean muscle.

Overhead Dumbbell - 4 sets - 8 - 7 - 6 - 5

Barbell Curl - 4 sets - 6 - 6 - 5 - 4

Skull Crushers - 4 sets - 8 - 7 - 6 - 5

Concentrated Curls - 4 sets - 6 - 5 - 5 - 4

Dips - 4 sets - 15 - 14 - 13 - 12

Hammer Curls - 4 sets - 8 - 7 - 6 - 5

Tricep Kickback - 4 sets - 8 - 8 - 7 - 6

Pull Ups - 4 sets - as much as you can do

Any thoughts or workout requests? Message us on our twitter

or e-mail me at Keith33Morris@aol.com

-KM

New PSP2 Rumors

As we reported last week Sony's money troubles are mainly linked to the PSP and the complete FAIL of the PSP GO. So it would make sense for the company to develop a new PSP system to try and make a profit (let's just hope they include a UMD drive this time). Here's where the rumors come flying in. Above are pictures of what the PSP2 may look like (nothing confirmed yet) and today we get some new details.

It has been reported that Sony "could" announce a new PSP2 at E3, but that it is "highly unlikely." Reports say that Gamescom or the Tokyo Game Show are more likely places for Sony to release their new console. Also it is rumored that the PSP2 has two cameras. One forward camera, and one backwards camera facing the opposite way. Touchscreen has has also been rumored, along with the typical Playstation buttons. The PSP2 is said to also have a 4-cell processor (so roughly half the power of the PS3..SICK). A 2011 release is likely, followed by games that are already being developed in Brittan.

This is really all the information we have now, but keep in mind these are all RUMORS. So don't go jump aboard the PSP2 fanboy wagon yet. If E3 doesn't give us a new PSP console then maybe we'll get at least some confirmed information on it. I said it was time for Sony to make a new PSP system, and hopefully we'll get one within the next couple years. Stay tuned here for any new developments.

-KM

Super Scribblenauts Announced

The sequel to the 2009 hit Nintendo DS game Scribblenauts, has been official announced today. For those of you who didn't play the first title you missed out. Scribblenauts was developed by 5th Cell and allows players to literally interact with the game. Scribblenauts is controlled almost entirely by using the DS Stylus and Touchscreen. Gamers can write in words and summon items to use during the game. For example, you can type in the word "chair" and one will appear for players to control. You use these commands and items to help the main character Maxwell through the campaign. Scribblenauts has over 220 levels over 10 themed areas. It has been said that there are over 22,800 words players can write in to use use during the game (check out this gameplay).

The biggest addition in Super Scribblenauts is the ability to modify nouns using adjectives. Therefore using for instance a tiger, now becomes a red tiger, or a skinny tiger. Developers 5th Cell clearly wanted to put even more player creativity and control in the game, and so far it looks like they definitely did. Super Scribblenauts is set to come out fall of 2010. Stay tuned for more info.

-KM

Games of Summer: 2010

Well gamers summer is finally here! The only problem is there's really not much coming out these next few months. Don't get me wrong, we have a few "Blockbuster" titles early. But throughout the middle of the summer the game industry looks rather well...mediocre. The month of May is AWESOME, and June gives us the next installment of the Metal Gear series. July and the beginning of August on the other hand, just don't excite me. That being said, here is the list of some big games coming out the next four months. Keep in mind this is BEFORE E3. (dates also my change).

May

Red Dead Redemption - 5/18 (our preview here) - Xbox 360 & PS3

Prince of Persia: The Forgotten Sands - 5/18 - DS, Wii, Xbox 360, PS3, PSP

Split Second - 5/18 - Xbox 360 & PS3

Alan Wake - 5/18 - Xbox 360

Super Mario Galaxy 2 - 5/23 - Wii

ModNation Racers - 5/25 - PS3 & PSP (our preview here)

UFC Undisputed 2010 - 5/25 - Xbox 360 & PS3

June
Alpha Protocol - 6/1 - Xbox 360, PS3, PC

Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker - 6/8 - PSP (our preview here)

Call of Duty: The War Collection - 6/8 - Xbox 360 & PS3

Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2011 - 6/8 - Xbox 360, PS3, Wii

Transformers: War For Cybertron - 6/22 - Xbpx 360, PS3

Transformers: Decepticons - 6/22 - DS

Transformers: Adventures - 6/22 - Wii

LEGO Harry Potter Years 1-4 - 6/29 - Xbox 360, PS3, Wii, DS, PSP, PC

Singularity - 6/29 - Xbox 360, PS3, PC

July

Crackdown 2 - 7/6 - Xbox 360

NCAA Football 11 - 7/13 - Xbox 360, PS3, PS2

Quantum Theory - 7/20 - Xbox 350, PS3

Starcrafat II: Wings of Liberty - 7/27 - PC

August

Madden NFL 2011 - 8/10 - Xbox 360, PS3, Wii, PSP, PS2

Mafia II - 8/24 - Xbox 360, PS3, PC

Kane & Lynch 2: Dog Days - 8/24 - Xbox 360, PS3, PC

Dead Rising 2 - 8/31 - Xbox 360, PS3

Metroid: Other M - 8/31 - Wii

I see a few MUST BUYS, how about you? Let us know on our twitter

or e-mail me at Keith33Morris@aol.com

-KM

Red Dead Redemption Preview: Welcome To The West

Here we go everyone, the game we have all been waiting for, Red Dead Redemption. Just the name says it all. RDR is a third person action-adventure title created by Rockstar Games. Red Dead takes place in America during the early 1900's and shows a cruel and ruthless life for settlers in the west. Our main character John Marston is a former outlaw and bandit. He was seriously wounded in a bank robbery (with his former gang) and left to die by his partners in crime. Bill Williamson (the leader of the gang) is the one who chooses to leave Marston behind, and is also the main antagonist of the game. After he survived, Marston decided to retire from his life of crime. He bought a ranch, got married, had a son and was content with living an honest life. However, Bureau of Investigation agent Edgar Ross knows how dangerous Williamson and his gang are. The Bureau needs helps apprehending Williamson and Ross knows he needs Marstons assistance. Ross decides to kidnap Marston's wife and blackmail him into helping the Bureau catch Williamson and his gang. Ross knows what he did was wrong, but also realizes without Marston, Williamson might never be caught. So with his family and son's life threatened Marston sets out on his quest to kill Williamson. Marston meets and eventually allies with Marshall Leigh Johnson who is also out to stop the gang. Throughout Marston's journey he runs into numerous settlers, outlaws and lawmen. Life in the west is not for the faint of hear.

The gameplay is focused on a large, open world environment allowing players explore the American West. Players can gain positive or negative "Honor" depending on the decisions they make in the game (for example, killing an innocent civilian would give you negative honor). Also Red Dead allows us to gamble, hunt animals and participate in standoffs. Horses are the main form of transportation and the game has numerous breeds in it. Life in the west is amazingly accurate and detailed. Everything from the drunk at the local bar, to the outlaws on the plains. This game screams originality and creativeness. Along with the main story line, players can go on side missions to boost their "morality" to gain experience and new weapons. Public hearings, steak-out ambushes, and all out gun brawls are some events you can participate in during the game. Red Dead is a third-person shooter and lets the player take cover, select a specific target to attack, free-aim and even blind fire. Also the combat lets you shoot individual body parts for non-lethal attacks. Marston has a hand full of weapons including rifles, revolvers, knives, pistols, dynamite, lassos, gatling guns, shotguns and cannons. The "Dead-Eye" targeting system allows the player to slow down time to fire a precise shot at the enemy. Red Dead has 48 achievements with a total of 1,000 Gamerscore.

Here's what gives Red Dead it's lasting appeal, the multiplayer. Red Dead has normal and team deathmatch (Shoot Out) and various capture-the-flag games ("Hold Your Own" is CTF on large maps). Gold Rush is a free for all game where you collect bags of gold and Grab the Bag is a single version of CTF. Free Roam is the starting point of all game modes, because Red Dead doesn't have a traditional game lobby. Free Roam includes the entire single player gamemap. Players can form a "Posse" of up to 8 people and compete in actvities such as; outlaw challenges, bounty hunting, lawbringer, sharpshooter, hunting (animals), and survivalist. Players will also be able to choose from a number of characters to participate in multiplayer with. Including, Miners, Lawmen, Marshals, Federales, American Army, Walton's Gang, Dutch's Gang, Cattle Rustlers and Rebeldes. Also in one's "posse" players can play mini games such as arm wrestling, drinking and poker.

As you can see Red Dead Redemption looks like a game that will immerse us into the world of the American west. With the deep and intense single player, to the numerous game modes in multiplayer. This title looks to be the summer "blockbuster" for the video game industry. Rockstar Games have outdone themselves on this one. Red Dead Redemption comes out Tuesday, May 18th and is a definite buy for me. Look for our review later this week. In the meantime, check out these videos and the new AMAZING launch trailer.
-KM

Fable III Box Art Revealed

Today we see the fantastic box art of Lionhead Studios' action-RPG Fable III. No doubt it passes the Fable III eye candy test. We see our hero with the similar look of past Fable games, with his trusty sword and pistol. He appears to be reaching for the crown of Ablion (Fable III preview coming soon). I love the design and similar Fable feel. We also notice that the game is for Xbox 360 and Windows which means that the two would work together in the game. This would be a new feature for the Fable franchise and needless to say would please many gamers. Stay tuned for more news on Fable III.

-KM

Why I think Modern Warfare 2 has been overthrown by Bad Company 2

Let’s get one thing straight right now. In this post I will be talking about the multiplayer aspects of these two games NOT the single player. Because, let’s be honest here, multiplayer is where these two games truly shine. Ok, now that we have that out of the way, yes it’s true……I like Bad Company 2 MORE than Modern Warfare 2 and I don’t care who knows it. In fact, I’ll defend my stance on this issue and heck I’ll even break down exactly why I feel this way.

First off let me point out that I have been a Call of Duty fan since Call of Duty: Finest Hour, the title that helped the franchise move from crappy pc to the glory of consoles. I’ve stuck with Activision and it’s fine developers through the best and worst of times. I am the definition of a FAN when it comes to this franchise. Many will agree with me when I say the Modern Warfare series is the best and most successful in the franchise, and Modern Warfare 2 shattered just about every record when it was first released. I think it’s funny that Infinity Ward wasted their time making a single player aspect to Modern Warfare 2 because no body really cares about it. Multiplayer is the shining gem and the only thing that gamers care about. It takes your $60 and stretches it over months and years and turns it into one of the best investments a gamer can make. So what happens when other game developers decide to take on this shooter giant? Most fail miserably, but some actually make games that are up to par with MW2. Point in case, Battlefield Bad Company 2.

Bad Company first stepped onto the scene in 2008, a few months after the original Modern Warfare. I can say from first hand experience that it was a great game, but it just wasn’t up to par with MW. But the boys over at Dice finally got things right with Bad Company 2, and made what I think is a better game than MW. Let’s talk about gameplay first. MW2 plays extremely fast and is very hectic. It can be extremely frustrating for new players because you can get killed left and right and still have no idea who on earth is shooting you. I am a humble guy and I don’t like to brag or boast a lot, but I’ll admit that I am DAMN good at video games and especially at online games. But even I had trouble keeping my kill death ratio positive when I first started out. MW2’s multiplayer formula goes a little something like this: put several players on a tiny map, give them the choice of multiple machine guns, snipers, shotguns, and rocket launchers, give a plethora of all types of grenades, let them respawn almost instantly after they die, and let the chaos insue. This is a chaotic concoction and it’s easy to get lost in the action. Needless to say REAL war is nothing like this at all. But what gets on my nerves the most is the respawn time. Honestly if you knew that you could come back to life almost instantly after you died, wouldn’t you do some stupid shit? If 5 guys on the opposing team are holed up in a room all with rocket launchers aimed right at the door, I’m still going to run in there and try to take someone out because I know I’ll be right back in the fight momentarily. It also makes it extremely easy to go completely lone wolf and try to be a one man army. This doesn’t work out the way they wanted though because 8 guys running around by themselves trying to take out the other team, will turn into 8 kills for the other team. Bad Company 2 doesn’t do this however. BC2 take the MW2 formula and bitch slaps it for being too Rambo-esque and not realistic. BC2 uses a simpler formula: put several players on medium to large sized maps, let them pick from weapon classes that have special abilities, make them work together as a TEAM, add some vehicles for good measure, and let that marinate and see what you get. Dice nailed this because it actually WORKS! BC2 gives a much more realistic version of war. One that is actually fun to play too. Instead of cramming two teams into one tiny map, BC2 pits multiple teams in one large map. This enables players to take their own approach to battle. You can hang back and snipe, charge in with full force, or even take a tank and knock on the enemy’s front door. BC2 also gets rid of the guns guns and more guns idea that MW2 uses. In BC2 its not about guns, but more so about classes. Different classes allow you to wield different objects such as health packs, rockets, ammo boxes, and even defibrillators that can bring fallen teammates back to life. Yep, you can actually revive your teammates, and guess what? You get experience for doing it! The idea here is that one class can’t survive without the other, and you also don’t have 16 guys running around with rocket launchers strapped on their backs. Which brings me to my next point, BC2 does away with the lone wolf stuff and makes you work as a team. I know this from experience, and let me tell you if you try to take on the competition by yourself you WILL die and you Will die a lot. You HAVE to work as a team. Now you might be thinking “Well f**k that, I work better alone!” and I totally hear you, because I thought the same thing. But trust me when I say that it’s actually really fun to work together. They key here is to have different classes in your squad. Medics can revive people and throw health packs, assault gunners provide ammo boxes, snipers can call in artillery strikes, and engineers can wield rockets and repair vehicles. It’s like the circle of life, and it makes you depend on your teammates.

"Wouldn't it be cool to drive this baby in MW2!? Oh wait, you can't!"

Oh and did I also mention that BC2 has destructible environments? Yes, just about everything can be destroyed. Even entire buildings can be leveled to rubble. So what exactly does this mean? Well children, it means that your whole approach to first person shooters has completely changed. Remember how frustrating it is when you shoot an enemy in MW2, only to have them run behind a wall that protects them from virtually anything while allowing them to regenerate health? Yeah well in BC2 you just blow up the wall that they’re hiding behind and problem solved. Is there a pesky sniper that is picking you off from an attic window? And does he have land mines at every freaking entrance making it almost impossible to kill him? Thanks to BC2, you can take a tank (oh yeah, MW2 doesn’t have drivable vehicles either) or mortar strike and blow his ass to kingdom come! It completely revolutionizes the way that you play online shooters, and adds a touch of realism to the game.

"Literally EVERYTHING can be destroyed. Aw poor little shack."

One of the most addicting things about MW2’s multiplayer is the unlockables. As you progress you unlock new guns, attachments, and perks. This system is quite good I must admit. But I’ll ask you, does running around with a “Red Tiger Camo” colored gun help you perform better? No. In fact, it shows the world just how much of a life you DON’T have because it took you months to get those 200 headshots and unlock that cute and pretty color for your gun! BC2 has an unlocking system, but on a more simpler level. As you progress you can unlock different types of guns, and there are plenty to unlock. Instead of unlocking random guns though, BC2 uses an experience system that unlocks guns in the class that you get experience in. So if you are strictly a sniper only, you’ll only unlock snipers. The same goes for every class. Sure there are still attachments like red dot sights and optical sights, but there isn’t an attachment overload like MW2. Like I said earlier, BC2 keeps everything on a simpler, more effective level.

And now I’ve come to my final point; DLC. I would like to take a second and laugh at every MW2 gamer who actually bought the $15 map pack-HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA LOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOOLOLOLOLOLOOLOLOLOLOL HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA. Whew, excuse me there. Sure, I’ll say it, if you bought the stimulus package you’re an idiot. You just paid $15 for 3 new maps and 2 maps that you already had on MW1. Yes you’re an idiot. Activision has conveniently priced this map pack for such a high price because they know that you’ll pay for it. And guess what? You walked right into their trap. Congratulations dumbo. While you are wasting your money, my fellow BC2 members and I are enjoying FREE dlc packages from the good folks at EA and Dice. But hey not all is lost, as Activision announced earlier that a NEW MW2 map pack is coming soon! And hey guess what again?! It’s also $15! And it’s also the same story as the first map pack; 3 new maps and 2 old ones. So let’s do the math here people, if you buy both the map packs, you have successfully turned a $60 game into a $90 game and that’s before tax.

Well there you have it folks. It was lengthy and quite frankly I’m out of breath! But I stood my ground and defended my stance on this issue. I’m not asking any of you reading this to completely agree with me, but I am asking you to at least TRY Bad Company 2 if you haven’t already. It’s always nice to take a look at the competition and see what they have to offer anyway, right? Of course I’m right. Happy fragging everybody!

-JW

The T-Bag: What It Means To Gamers

In every Halo game Bungie has blessed us with the ability to crouch and sneak around using the left thumb-stick. Well for mature gamers who take it seriously, they can crouch and not show up on radar as much as they like. For me that glorious click of a button is much more, it's a STATEMENT.

Since my high school days playing Halo 2, I quickly learned that a little push-in of a button could cause someone anger, frustration and hatred towards me. Just walking over to a dead Spartan corps bouncing up and down like a maniac was the most dis-respectful, yet funny thing I could do. Any online gamer who has ran across me in Halo 2, Halo 3, and now Halo Reach has felt my warm armored balls on their unconscious body. I'm talking about the "t-bag" of course. Some say its dump, pointless and straight up immature. Well hell, I couldn't agree more and that's why I LOVE it. I love the spastic "crazy t-bag." You finally kill your enemy who's got you a few times in a row and you celebrate by bagging him as many times as you can until he respawns. Then there's the ever so patient "slow t-bag", that says to your opponent "yeah I OWN you." But most importantly (and my favorite) t-bagging your dead rival non-stop as you bash them with the melee button, while unloading a full clip of bullets. That act of "t-bagging" says **** you n00b get PWNED.

The moment I played the Halo Reach Beta for the first time I clicked in my left thumb-stick to make sure I could still "bag." Needless to say, I'm still in business, and business is'a boo min. I even t-bag another way in Halo Reach that is only possible in Bungie's new title, the Armor-Lock t-bag. Nothing says GET SOME like slamming your armor-lock ability into your victim. Now what is it that "t-bagging" bring out in all of us? Could it be immaturity, violence, or lack of compassion? Possibly, but really all it does is bring out the competitor in all of us. When you get t-bagged what do you do, blow it off and pretend it didn't happen? Or do you seek out every player on the opposite team (especially the one who bagged you) and try and massacre them all. For me I choose the second route. Not only because it's fun bag, but because I LOVE to win. We all do. You don't do anything in life expecting to fail or lose. So if getting t-bagged pisses me off and helps me get a few more kills to lead our team to a victory, then bag me all you like!

Bungie changed video games forever with the ability to do this to opponents. We can expect more shooters to allow us to do this great feature in the future. Thank you Bungie; for the countless memories and moments, and to my fellow gamers, bag away!

Comments or questions? Let us know on our Twitter, or e-mail me at

Keith33Morris@aol.com

-KM

How About This Creepy AC Brotherhood Bonus?

Ubisoft revealed the Gamestop pre-order bonus for Assassin's Creed Brotherhood. This creepy character (the one snapping some poor guy's neck) has been dubbed The Harlequin, and if you pre-order at Gstop, he's all yours to control in the new AC multiplayer modes. Not much is known about him right now, other than the fact that he looks extremely happy!

-JW

New Medal of Honor Screens

EA has developed numerous games in the Medal of Honor Seres over the years. Their latest and most anticipated title is the up coming first-person shooter Medal of Honor. The plot hasn't fully been revealed yet (if there even is much of a story at all). But, it will allow gamers to play as multiple characters throughout the campaign. The game takes play in Afghanistan. You will be put on the front lines as an elite US Army Ranger. EA wants to focus on "realism" allowing players to raid terrorist hideouts, go on secret undercover operations and rescue hostages. EA Digital Illusions CE (better known as DICE) will be in charge of making a stealer multiplayer to lure Modern Warfare players to the new Medal of Honor.

It's safe to say that this game will be fantastic. Look for more info at E3 and throughout the summer; and check back here for more updates. In the meantime, check out these new screen shots.

-KM