'Zombies Ate My Neighbors' on Wii Virtual Console

Back in the days of the Super Nintendo, LucasArts did more than just make Star Wars games. They made a game that was a joint venture with Konami in 1993 called Zombies Ate My Neighbors.



The game is out today on the Wii Virtual Console. You play a kid whose goal is to rescue the neighbors from the zombie invasion. The game is based on old B-movies and grindhouse horror films. It's an excellent game on both co-op and solo, so it's worth the 800 Wii points.

A Nintendo E3 Round-up

Hey gang, it's E3! No, I'm not in L.A., but there's something I can do. That's right, condense the information for your reading pleasure! I'll start here with the Nintendo announcements.


Wii/DS

- Super Mario Galaxy 2 is announced, but won't be released until 2010. The big difference between this one and the original? You get to ride Yoshi. Tie yourself over with this trailer.
- Metroid: Other M will launch in 2010 and is being developed by Team Ninja, the guys behind the Ninja Gaiden and Dead or Alive games. Check it out.
- New Super Mario Bros. Wii looks charming as can be. You've got a four-player co-op mode, which can be played from what it looks like by Mario, Luigi and a couple of Toads. Otherwise, it looks like the original Super Mario Bros., except with more modes. Check out the trailer.
- Dance Dance Revolution is announced for the Wii. It's going to utilize the Wii Balance Board and be primarily fitness based. Otherwise, doesn't look too different.
- Professor Layton and The Diabolical Box for the DS gets a release date (August 24) and brand new trailer.
- Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story is an RPG for the DS, which releases this fall. Here's a look at it. - Zelda Wii (which is the tentative title, I'm sure) didn't get a lot of attention, but good old Shigeru Miyamoto tells us that we can expect it by 2010 at the earliest.
- Golden Sun is announced for the DS - the first game of the series in six years. Want a trailer? Of course you do.
- Cooking Mama 3 is announced for the DS.
- Wii Sports Resort and Wii Fit Plus get shown off. They're exactly what you'd expect.
- Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days will be released on September 29.
- In case you don't feel like you've gotten your Mario fix, Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Minis March Again will be released on June 8 for DSiWare. Check out the press conference demonstration here.
- TMNT: Smash Up heads your way on September 22.

OK, so that's all of the big stuff. We'll talk about Sony, Microsoft and all of the multiplatformers (can you say The Beatles Rock Band?) quite soon. Happy E3, everybody!

'Punch-Out!!' trailer introduces new mode, character

I've fawned over the prospect of a new Punch-Out!! before, but now I'm even more excited.

A new trailer from Game Trailers introduces head-to-head mode. Taking a questionable cue from comic book lore and Sonic Unleashed, Little Mac has the capability of hulking out into Giga Mac. We're all hoping this means good things for the future of the game. Here's the trailer.

Wii Virtual Console this week

This week, the usually dried up Wii Virtual Console brings us Super Punch Out!!, the great sequel to Punch Out!! for the Super Nintendo.

The game may not have the iconic music or a plain-Jane Little Mac, but it still (forgive the pun) packs the same punch (OK, you don't need to forgive the pun). At least Doc Louis is still there to give you words of encouragement and steal your bike.

Here's a YouTube clip of somebody beating Nick Bruiser at a hilariously quick pace.

Coming to Wii: 'A Boy and His Blob'

This week, it was announced that aside from Punch-Out!!, the Wii is getting another potentially good remake of an old game. This one, however, looks like the most promising Wii title I've seen so far this year.



A Boy and His Blob, a remake of the NES cult classic, is coming to the Wii later this year. Get your jelly beans at the ready, because this just got REAL.

It's just nice to see a non-gimmicky game for the Wii and not just an interesting short one for WiiWare. Here's hoping for the best.

HSM karaoke game announced, 4-year-old girls still screaming

That's right, Disney Interactive Studios announced yesterday that they just love money. Therefore, they're going to release Disney Sing It: High School Musical 3: Senior Year, a game with a title that's far too short.

DSI:HSM3:SY, which looks suspiciously like HTML code, will feature songs from all three High School Musical movies. Sing solo! Sing with friends!

The game will release February 17 for the Xbox 360, PS3, PS2 and Wii consoles. There's no word about whether or not this game is going to be compatible with the Lips, Rock Band or Guitar Hero: World Tour microphones.

But take heed. If you're over the age of 13 and are playing this game on the Xbox 360, all of your friends on the system can see how many achievements you've gotten while playing the game. So ask yourself: how brave are you?

"Klonoa" heading to the Wii

The coming year isn't looking too kind to the Nintendo Wii. I've long gushed over the system, but alas, there hasn't been anything too impressive since I last played de Blob. Finally, one game is coming to the states that could actually catch my attention.

Klonoa: Door to Phantomile was originally released in 1998 for the PlayStation. It was remade for the Wii and released in Japan. Finally, this year, it's going to get a North American release (under the title Klonoa).

Here's hoping that it lives up to the blogger hype. The Wii desperately needs another good game for the coming year.

What to Buy Your Kids for the Holidays - Wii

Hey mom and dad, do you have no inkling of these moving pictures your children are controlling? I understand your pain. You want to be a great parent this Christmas and produce for them a fresh new video game but have no idea where to start. Well I'm going to lay out a few suggestions for you - one platform at a time.

I'll start with the Nintendo Wii. This is a huge item on a lot of kids' want lists, but there are a lot of terrible games out there. I'm looking at you, Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader. Here are a few games (some old, some newer) that your kids would love.

THE BASICS - Here are the games that every owner of a Nintendo Wii should have in their possession.

The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
Super Mario Galaxy
Super Smash Bros.: Brawl

KID-FRIENDLY GAMES - Some games that are very child friendly (and fun for big kids, too).

Animal Crossing: City Folk
Mario Kart Wii
de Blob

BIG KID GAMES - These games are more violent and probably shouldn't be unleashed on the little gamer.

No More Heroes
Call of Duty: World at War

THE LITTLE MUSICIAN - I just want to make a quick, honest point. If your child is interested in music games, do NOT buy them Wii Music. It's a trap. Your child may have fun with it for a few days, but it is not a game that will last for the long haul. If they don't have an Xbox 360 or PS3, get them:

Rock Band 2

Otherwise, I would just get Rock Band 2 on another system, but there you go.

CLASSIC STAND-BY - Don't know what to get? Here's a fail-safe item for your Wii toting young'n.

A Wii Points Card - this prepaid card will buy the gamer any game he or she wants on the Virtual Console (meaning a game that can be purchased online). This is available at any game store (GameStop and EB).

BUY THEM SOMETHING ON THE WII SHOP CHANNEL - If you're really tapped in to the Wii and know how to work the Wii Shop Channel, there are a few pretty good options for gifts. Plus, you can buy some classic games that you enjoyed playing for the N64, SNES, NES, Genesis, or a few other systems.

World of Goo
Mega Man 9 (extremely difficult, yet fun)
Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Super Mario 64
The classic Mario games
Punch-Out!! Featuring Mr. Dream

Those are the definite highlights for the Wii to pick up your kids. Please leave a comment if you have any questions about buying games for your young'ns this holiday season. On to the next console.

Games of 2009: Wii

Here are some games that are coming out for the Wii in 2009. Not much to look at, but here it is.

- Dead Rising: Chop 'til You Drop (3/1/09) - A sequel to the Xbox 360 classic.

- MadWorld (3/12/09) - The first extremely bloody and violent Wii game since No More Heroes. Looks like Sin City and actually has some potential. It's a bit controversial, but it's one of the more exciting titles coming up for the Wii. Which brings us to our next amazing selection.

- Sonic and the Black Knight (3/12/09) - Ugh, this guy again. I thought we got rid of him after Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games. OK, let's look at the trailer.

No thanks!

- Ready 2 Rumble: Revolution (5/21/09) - Another Ready 2 Rumble game from the Dreamcast days. Those games were fun, but this one includes more celebrities. And hey, Michael Buffer's back, because nobody else in the history of the world can yell, "Let's get ready to rumble!"

- Ghostbusters (6/18/09) - This is actually a multi-platform game, but the Wii version is more cartoony and less realistic than the 360 and PS3 releases.

- Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Echoes of Time (TBD) - This one's pretty self-explanatory.

- Punch-Out!! Wii (TBD) - Possibly the most exciting title coming to the Wii, although I'm not holding my breath for this one to knock me off my feet. Here's a trailer.



- Sam & Max: Season Two (TBD) - Dog, rabbit, mystery, hilarity.

- Sin & Punishment 2 (TBD) - A pretty cool looking sequel to the Japan-only release.

Hendrix Says "No" to Wii DLC

That Jimi Hendrix sure has become persnickety from beyond the grave. First he wants his cameo in Guitar Hero: World Tour, now he says he can only release his songs in "track pack" form. Thus, since the Wii can't support downloadable track packs, there will be no Hendrix downloadable content for the wii.


I suppose the reasoning behind the decision is because the Wii Shop Channel doesn't allow "duplicate" content. That means if you want to buy the Bowie track pack on Rock Band, you'll just have to buy the three songs individually. Is it unfortunate? When it omits certain (see above) rock 'n' roll legends, yes, it does.

Come on, The Ghost of Jimi Hendrix. Lighten up. So what if my neighbors want to play your songs at top volume so I can hear them through the paper thin walls singing "Beat It" as loud as they can completely off pitch? On second thought, thank you, TGJH. Thank you.

Snoopy's Call of Duty

At long last, he will catch the Red Baron. And he's going to do it in style.



Snoopy WWI Flying Ace hits the Wii and Xbox 360 in early 2009. In related news, Charlie Brown is Still Incredibly Sad needs no virtual outlet.

"Wii Music" Destroys the Zelda Theme

You know how the Wii is starting to get pretty redundant? You know how Wii Music is already a pretty big risk for them? Well, here's some additional proof.



If you couldn't tell, that was the theme to The Legend of Zelda. I've never felt more hurt by a game's impact than I do now. I'm just going to call it like I see it - this game is going to be terrible.

Hey, do you remember when Nintendo made music awesome?

Review: "de Blob"

I think I know why I fell in love with de Blob. It has to be the soundtrack of the game. As you roll around the city as a giant blob of paint, the city fills with music. When you bring the color, you bring the funk. This amazing Quincy Jones street beat starts popping up all over the place. I'm almost positive that the soundtrack fuels three-fourths of the fun of de Blob.

This may be the perfect game for children and adults alike. The premise is silly: you, de Blob, are aiding a team of color revolutionaries to reanimate the city of Chroma. The inkies have come in and taken away all the color, and so you, de Blob, must make Chroma City come back to life. Viva la revolucion!

So essentially, the game is teaching kids how to be revolutionaries (to a very funk and jazz oriented soundtrack). Frankly, I thought this game had some undertones when it came to message. The I.N.K.T. corporation comes in, spreads out, and ruins all of the colorful lifestyles and cultures in the city? My conspiracy theory is that de Blob is secretly about gentrification. Gentrification occurs when you go into a neighborhood, vibrant and full of culture, and start putting in dog grooming stores and Wal-Marts (to "make them better"). Your job is to go in, tear down the corporation and start making life vibrant again. But it's not like this game independently ran out on any corporations - it was being supported by Nintendo, THQ, and an exlusive special release from Circuit City. Thus, maybe it isn't intentionally about gentrification, but you must admit that there's something fishy about this revolution business.

One thing that I picked up on with de Blob is that the game actually reminded me of Tony Hawk's Pro-Skater 2. You run around, you do little mini-games, and the point is to free ride around a city to rack up points. No, you don't do tricks and there is a severe lack of Bob Burnquist, but it is similar if only for the maps and mini-games.

The only place where de Blob gets it wrong is the multiplayer. Much like on Tony Hawk, there's a "king of the hill" type game - each player paints as much as they can, racking up more points than the other player, and going to paint over the other player's stuff. Unfortunately, it just doesn't translate as well to de Blob. It's more frustrating than fun.

But the main levels for de Blob offer a lot of room for roaming around and exploring. I'm sure this could be annoying, but again, this is obviously a game aimed at kids. It probably only has semi-replayability, considering running around and painting things over and over again can get old pretty quickly. Still, de Blob keeps it fun. Through the soundtrack and the story, it gets you geared for action. In fact, I heard myself saying things like, "De Blob de failed" after losing a mini-game. The game just gets in your system.

Oh, and did I mention that I found the new best fictional foreign language? Forget The Sims, the blobs' language is way better. It's like a sped-up Jabba the Hut, except you can actually make out them saying proper names, like "Blob" in a really fast way. Take that, Tolkien.

This is one of the best third-party games I've played for the Wii in a long time. Do yourself a favor and join the color revolution.

Grade: A

PUNCH-OUT!!

Yesterday, Nintendo held the Nintendo Media Summit, which is short for, "The Nintendo Media Summit: Sorry About E3, Here's the Real Stuff." Anyway, they announced that my favorite game for the NES, Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!!! is being adapted for the Wii. It now drops Tyson, obviously, and takes the name Punch-Out!!. Here's a trailer.



Yes! Will Doc Louis be there? Will he ride a bike while L'il Mac runs alongside? What about Mr. Dream? Who will be there? Who stays behind? IS THIS A POINTLESS REVAMP OF READY 2 RUMBLE??? So many questions, so little time.

My favorite parts of the trailer:
1) The faithful adaptations of the characters.
2) THEY KEEP THE THEME SONG AND ADD HORNS! So awesome.
3) Is L'il Mac graying? I hope they make it so he's getting old, a la Solid Snake.

The game is coming during the first half of 2009. Exciting stuff. Stay tuned, there were more cool announcements.

Review: "Star Wars: The Force Unleashed" for Wii

The mantle in my living room features a Lando Calrissian action figure (also known as Little Billy Dee). Thus, I call my mantle "Cloud City." That's how much I love Star Wars. Not surprisingly, I was in awe of the idea of this game from the videos and pre-release hype.

And then, of course, the hype died with mediocre reviews. But I refused to believe it. I had to debunk the solid stream of "OK" reviews with my own, fresh, good perspective. So I rented the game, ready as ever to fall in love with it.

The plot, in a nutshell, is this: you are Darth Vader's apprentice. Lord Vader is sending you on secret missions across the galaxy where you must do his bidding, yet nobody can know of your existence, so you have to kill everybody who crosses your path (Rebels, Stormtroopers, Rancor monsters, you get the picture). To carry out your tasks, you have a lightsaber and some awesome force powers that make you seem more powerful than The Emperor himself.

But it's not a strategy based game at all. You know games like Final Fight, River City Ransom and No More Heroes? They're called "beat em' ups." That's what this is. It's a super fancy looking beat em' up. However, since The Force Unleashed wants so badly to be some sort of Tom Clancy-esque mission based game, the beat em' up format doesn't really work.

The game advertised itself, essentially, as the next major Star Wars story (excepting the Clone Wars stuff). The novelization even hit the top of the The New York Times bestsellers list. If the game would've been more low key and less hyped, like Shadows of the Empire, it would've been fine. But there was a huge campaign behind this game, toting it to be not only the next great Star Wars game, but one of the best games period. And it isn't. You essentially run around and do the same few Force moves over and over to kill redshirts.

I'll just list the annoying stuff.

1) The camera angles are extremely frustrating. If you're fighting somebody, likely you're going to lose half of your health while trying to whip the camera back in the right direction.
2) There are no consequences for dying. You get killed, you respawn in the same place, the same people are dead, and you continue playing into infinity. You can save any time, you don't have a life meter. You just keep living. No wonder those Stormtroopers look so frustrated.
3) You have to kill droids and wookies. I'm ethically against the mistreatment of wookies.
4) The game has no replay value. When I beat it, I returned it right away. There's not much reward in playing it again, so what's the point of keeping it around?
5) The lightsaber duels are clumsy and obnoxious, which should feasibly be a really cool part of the game.
6) You know those videos of The Apprentice character crushing an AT-ST walker with The Force? Yeah, you basically do that by shaking the Wiimote and Nunchuk at the appropriate time. Over and over again. It's less than compelling.
7) The writing is pretty bad. I just really couldn't find the magic of the original Star Wars films in the story (which is an unfair comparison, but it does tack the name Star Wars on the box, so it's a necessary one). Maybe it's that on the Wii, the graphics allow two emotions for characters: indifferent and angry. But the voice acting is no good, there's a totally pointless love story, and the whole plot is circular and just echos "George Lucas needs that money!" Plus, at the end, I'm not sure as to whether or not I'm supposed to like the character.
8) No James Earl Jones.

I have one last problem, but it's for a totally nerdy "sci-fi logic" reason. So the main character is an all-powerful jedi who can take down Star Destroyers and toss TIE Fighters across the room with the flick of the wrist. Uh...Luke Skywalker could barely lift an X-Wing. He would probably have a small heart attack at the thought of crushing a giant machine with The Force. And ultimately, Luke ends up accomplishing what this Apprentice can't do. It makes no sense at all.

Really, the whole thing feels like a rushed job. They had a good idea and then they wanted to get it out there. It shows. Example - throughout the game, Vader keeps sending you back to the same three places, where things "just happen to be going on" (i.e. they didn't have time to create another two or three worlds). I mean, come on, are there really that many ongoings at the Jedi Temple? I think not.

Ultimately, though, the game utilized the Wii's controllers quite well. Plus, there's that epic John Williams score to back it up, which is always helpful. Oh, and you get to play as Darth Vader for the first level. During that level, I kept giggling like I would've in the fifth grade. It's pretty exciting to be one of the most evil, powerful characters of all time.

It's a decent beat em' up, but if you really want to check it out, rent it. It's nowhere near being worth the money. It looks like mediocrity wins the day for this game.

Grade: C+ (DON'T BELIEVE THA HYPE!)

2K Sports Announces "NHL 2K9" Zamboni Games (Really)

So what's new in NHL 2K9? You don't care? Well I'll tell you anyway!

- There are (friendly) Zamboni competition games!
- A revamped fighting engine!
- Custom Stanley Cup celebrations!
- Use the Wiimote as a hockey stick!
- User friendly controls!
- Six-on-six online capability!
- What? SPECIAL GUESTS THE HUNTINGTON BLIZZARD!

Wait? I made the last one up? Darn. NHL 2K9 releases September 9 for all major platforms. You can play a free demo now on the Xbox Live Arcade and the PlayStation Network.

"Samba De Amigo" Totes Bad Songs, Unnecessary Periperals At Last

I hope you like rhythm games with bad songs, because you're about to hit the fun/unnecessary jackpot.

Samba De Amigo, which translates to "Remember Ricky Martin?," is coming to the Nintendo Wii. Formerly of Sega Dreacast fame, you use the Wiimote as maracas. So what songs can you play? Here are the notables.

- "Livin' la Vida Loca" by Ricky Martin
- "Tequila" by Chuck Rio (admittedly pretty cool)
- "Hot Hot Hot" by Arrow
- "Macerena" by Los Del Rio
- "Papa Loves Mambo" by Perry Como
- "Do it Well" by J.Lo
- "Smooth" by Santana
- "Oye Como Va" by Santana
- "Conga" by The Miami Sound Machine
- "Pon de Replay" by Rihanna
- "Como Ves" by Ozomatli
- "Low Rider" by War
- "Borriquito" by Charro

And what's a lame Wii rhythm game without lame, useless peripherals! Behold!
Wow! How extremely unnecessary!

I'll play the game and I'll give it a try, but I will not support purchasing another useless peripheral. This is going too far. The game is out September 23.

The Hacked Wii DVD Player

You there! Have you been itching to watch some movies on your TV but you have no DVD Player or video game console with a DVD Player? Yeah, I feel you. I'm also out of Xbox 360/PS3 commission for the moment. So what do you do?

Well, it's been floating around the Interweb that you can download a DVD Player application onto your Wii. How do you do it? The good people at Wii Fanboy have compiled a simple "how to." Once I get the Internet working in my place, this could be a sincere possibility...after I read up on how harmful it could be to my system.

Thanks, Wii Fanboy!

EA Casts Lumos on New Harry Potter Game Cover

Well, we're over halfway through 2008, and although the Harry Potter book series is through and done with, there's still two more films left. You know what that means? That's right - two more mediocre and/or awful video games based on the movies! There's no big news on the game adaptation of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, but there is some box art available for viewing. Check it.


Does it meet the confringo expectations? I assume not. It's pretty much the cover for every other film and game, except this time Harry is slightly older and perhaps even more intense than before (if that's possible). Look out behind you, Harry! It's Alan Rickman! It's true - there's an evil worse than He Who Must Not Be Named himself.

The game is set to be released this November.

E3: Some Wii Trailers

The trailers just don't stop. Have some more - Wii style, babies!

Clone Wars: Lightsaber Duels



This looks like it could be fun. Of course, like most Wii games, you'll look like a fool playing it, but perhaps it'll be a good lightsaber outlet.

Animal Crossing: City Folk



And now I give my lecture about the last Animal Crossing. I didn't like playing it. It made me feel obligated to get on and play it every day. When I didn't get on and play Animal Crossing in a few months, I got a lecture from everyone in my village. No thanks. I like playing games for fun, not computer-generated friendships (and the friends are needy).

Shaun White Snowboarding



Huh. Didn't they have a snowboarding game in arcades that let you, oh, stand on an actual board? I don't know. I'm not thrilled with what Nintendo has to offer. They need to come up with some new ideas that don't involve peripherals or overused characters. Fast.

Mega Man Back in 8 Bit!

I like that the gaming industry is starting to wise up and realize that they need to go back to square one. There's a reason why people still play the original Mario games and Mega Man games. But instead of just going back to the original format, Capcom are taking it a step further. They're going back to the bare bones of graphics: 8-bit!

Mega Man 9 will be released for WiiWare, Xbox Live Arcade, and the PlayStation Network. There are over a dozen new levels and 50 new enemies to battle. What's more, the character designs are being directed by Keiji Inafune, the original character designer of Mega Man. Oh, and did I mention the announcement of the first ever female boss? Authentic, new, and awesome. Can't wait.

New Wario Game - First Gameplay Videos

I'm a total sucker for a lot of things that, ultimately, are more addictive than good. That list includes Pringles, funk music, and platform games.

The aforementioned Wario game for the Wii, entitled Wario Land: Shake It! is set to release at the end of September. The first gameplay videos have been released. Here's a sample.

After playing a lot of Mario and Donkey Kong platformers last week, this looks refreshing. It looks like the first instance of a Wii game where the point isn't "utilize the Wii's unique control system to blah-blah-blah!" I just want a straightforward platform game. This could be the answer.

Also, if you want to watch the opening sequence (in Japanese, of course), you can check it out here.

New Wario Game for the Wii on the Horizon

Wario is starring in his own brand new Wii title. No, not another one of those weird WarioWare things. This is a legitimate platform game.

Wario Land: Shake It! will utilize the Wiimote by turning it sideways like an old-school controller. The game is set to release on September 29.

That sounds cool, but I don't think it'll be quite as interesting as Sonic Unleashed. Thoughts?

Tomb Raider Portal

Oh that zany Lara Croft. Always getting into new tomb-related shenanigans. Well, it looks like she has another adventure on the horizon.

Eidos Interactive just launched "Tomb Raider Portal", a website for Croft fans to find the latest in Tomb Raider news and art. Above is a photo of the upcoming Tomb Raider: Underworld. The game will be out in November 2008 for every platform (except the PSP). The game is the first to be designed specifically for the next-gen consoles, so the adventure should be more interesting than the last (especially because it involves Norse mythology, finally).

Check out the website for behind the scenes news, screenshots, and even a new exclusive Tomb Raider podcast. Sounds good, right?

The B-Team Wrestling Company Video Game Update

TNA iMPACT!, or the wrestling company that hired 75% of your favorite WCW wrestlers from your middle school years, has confirmed a new feature for their upcoming video game. Downloadable wrestlers will be available depending on the system. Likely, this feature won't be available on the Wii or the PS2.

I wonder what wrestlers will be downloadable. Bill Goldberg? Jimmy Snuka? Scott Hall? Ooh, maybe "Macho Man" Randy Savage (or Bonesaw)!

Hell's Kitchen: The Video Game

Hide Cooking Mama's eyes. Gordon Ramsay is getting his own video game.

You can play it now on Windows and it's allegedly coming soon for the Wii, Mac, and DS. That's right, who's ready to get cursed at by the Simon Cowell of cooking (except he's far more yelly and far less handsome, if I do say so myself)?

In the Market for WiiWare

I'm not too sure what to get with this newfangled WiiWare system, but I would really love to play a new game to review for you guys.

So I won't stretch this out - what should I get from WiiWare?

Oh, and my extremely belated review of Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney for the DS will come your way soon.

Guitar Hero: Metallica Coming to PS3, Xbox 360, Wii in 2009

I was severely disappointed to hear about the production of Guitar Hero: Aerosmith. There are a lot of bands that rock a lot harder than Steven Tyler and the gang. They could have made Guitar Hero: Led Zeppelin or Guitar Hero: Bo Diddley for that matter (may he rest in peace).

Let me be clear: I love music. It's not a surprise by any means, but it's the truth. I may not be a metal head of any kind (in any sense of the term), but I'm legitimately pleased about the release of Guitar Hero: Metallica for the PS3, Wii, and 360 in the first quarter of 2009.

I've never been a huge Metallica fan. I mean, I'm happy that they're playing Bonnaroo this year (a festival I've attended twice, never to return again). They're also easily the best modern metal band. I suppose I prefer Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin on the whole, but Metallica took what those groups did and manipulated it into what metal is today. Metallica's songs are fast, heavy, and powerful, which is perfect for a title like Guitar Hero. Also, at this point in time, the franchise will have not only guitars, but also drums and vocals (as mentioned before).

So what does everybody think? Are you more likely to buy Aerosmith or Metallica?

Mario Kart Wii: The Review

I was curious about how the Mario Kart games have progressed over the years. After all, I hadn't played one since the seventh grade or so. Mario Kart 64 is probably one of the all-time classic video games of all time and easily one of the best released for the Nintendo 64. I didn't play Mario Kart: Double Dash for the GameCube since my system stopped working. Thus, I was curious to see how this one would work.

I started up the game and decided to kick it off by playing a two-player vs. match, since that's what I'm accustomed to from childhood. The game was extremely frustrating. I was in first place for approximately ten seconds, then I was hit with some kind of flying blue shell, and then I was in 12th place. The person in 12th place managed to edge me out and get into first place with some magic weapon. To say the least, it was unnecessary. I put it down and stopped playing.

The next day, I was bored. My arms inexplicably moved and picked up a Wiimote and turned on the game. I played the game. And then I kept playing. And then I didn't stop playing.

Mario Kart Wii is a lot of fun. Yes, it's sort of a game of chance, and yes, it's very frustrating at times, but it's addictive. I went from despising the game to wanting to own it in about a day.

People have complaints about the Wii Wheel, which I understand. It's just as easy to shove the Wiimote into a Birkenstock and spin that around. Plus, the controls are better if you just use an old GameCube controller. Regardless, it's easy to get the hang of the steering on the Wiimote.

The soundtrack is obnoxious. The character selection is, at times, pretty unnecessary. There are a lot of different characters to choose that at times, it's hard to imagine wanting to play as Baby Mario or Baby Peach or Rosalina (the woman from Super Mario Galaxy).

More than anything, this is just a fun game to play with your friends. The multiplayer potential is awesome. There's nothing better than a room of people screaming obscenities because they've been hit by a red shell when they had a substantial lead. Ahhh...childhood in grown-up form. Thank you, Mario Kart Wii (because there's nothing more magical then someone loudly complaining about getting a banana peel as a weapon).

Grade: B+

Guitar Hero to Jump the Shark

I won't ramble on too much, but Guitar Hero IV, set to be released later this year, will include more instruments, including a drum kit and vocals according to Activision CEO Bobby Kotick (in an interview with Conde Nast Porfolio magazine). Hmm...this all seems so familiar. Perhaps it's because my copy of Rock Band does exactly the same thing.

Has Guitar Hero lost its way? I talked to my roommate Glenn about his appreciation for Rock Band vs. Guitar Hero. He likes both games. We play Rock Band from time to time, but only when we can get the other to play it. It's harder to get into it by yourself. It's definitely not a game that's very much fun when you're playing it alone. Enter Guitar Hero, a game that's fun both when you're alone and with your friends. Glenn prefers Guitar Hero because you can play it solo without feeling like a fool.

Guitar Hero IV doesn't need to be Rock Band II in order to succeed. It just needs to be itself again. People still bought Guitar Hero III in the face of the much-cooler Rock Band and people will still buy Guitar Hero IV. They just need to keep improving their song choice, graphics, and maybe add a couple of motifs in there that players aren't used to. So, people of Activision, get it together. Don't be Rock Band. It's like every sitcom mom ever said to any sitcom son or daughter - just be yourself.

SEGA Announces Four Upcoming (Violent) Video Games

Today, SEGA announced they have four new games in development. There isn't a lot of information known, but let's look at what we have already.

The first game is called Madworld. This game looks INCREDIBLY violent and is basically a cross between No More Heroes and Frank Miller's Sin City. The game is completely in black and white, other than the bloodshed. But here's the rub - it comes out for the Wii. It's always nice to hear about an incredibly violent addition to the Wii's repertoire. Here's a trailer, but be cautioned that it's extremely violent.

The next game is a Nintendo DS game called Infinite Line. The game is described to be one of the most complex RPG titles the DS has seen. In the game, you can control multiple spaceships at one time. The game also offers over 200 characters to select. I don't know, maybe this game is going to end up giving me the 'too much space on my iPod' problem where I can't decide what to listen to.

The third game is called Bayonetta. The game is directed by the creator of Devil May Cry, which shows great promise. The teaser trailer is below, but again, it's quite violent.

The last game has no name or title or concept or anything - it only has a name behind it. It's being created by Shinji Mikami, the creator of Resident Evil.

So that covers most of the major platforms while still sprinkling in some pretty awesome concepts and names. Can't wait to check out some of these beauties.

A Video Game Story that the Media Keeps Forgetting About and Remembering

"Hey boss, I've got a story idea."
"What is it, Johnson?"
"There's this game that helps kids lose weight. There's a local kid that lost a bunch of weight by playing this game."
"You're lying. I don't have time for this."
"No, really boss! It's a video game and it's good for kids."
"You've lost your mind!"
"I haven't boss, it's called (insert game title here)!"
"That's brilliant! Why didn't they think of this before?! Run that story immediately, son! We're breaking the story of ages!"

Aaaaaand scene.

I don't mean to be a cynic, but if there's anything that I've learned, it's that video games + anything that doesn't lead to adolescent violence = a miraculous news story of ages. USA Today did a story about Dance Dance Revolution in 2004 about the weight loss opportunities the game provides for younger kids (six years after the game initially came out). Today, The Clarion Ledger came out with an extremely similar story about the game.

Have any of you guys heard about Wii Fit? It's new, it's timely, and it still helps kids lose weight. Why don't you start playing that story before ten years pass?

Again, I apologize for being the neighborhood cynic.

Sonic Unleashed(?)

Looks a lot like the original Sonic platforms for the Genesis, right?


So there isn't an official announcement, but there has been a slew of rumors over the weekend. Sonic Unleashed is possibly making it to Xbox 360, PS3, and the Wii. From the sound of it, no official announcement will be made until E3 or May. It looks like a cross between a next-gen Sonic the Hedgehog and a follow-up to Sonic and the Secret Rings. Either way, it looks intriguing.

Messin' With the Kid

Rumors have been reeling about a new Kid Icarus game for the Wii. Seriously, you can't swing a cat in a video game blog without hitting some more speculation.

Personally, I never played the original game. I'm honestly only interested in the prospect of a new Kid Icarus installment because of how awesome Pit is in Super Smash Bros.

If there are any official announcements, I'll hit you with them - especially if anything arises from E3. But is anybody else hoping for this thing?

SEGA's Take on Iron Man

Say it with me, everybody.

I AM IRON MAN.

Anybody else giddy?

Bomberman Land - the Review

I am a long-time advocate of Bomberman. That cute little guy without eyebrows, toting a white jumpsuit? Oh he's the best. I mean, any character that can make a science out of bombing is admirable - especially if they make it fun for the kids!

Bomberman Land is the perfect kids game. The mini-games are simplistic and fun, while still being challenging. The dialogue and plot in the adventure mode is quite easy to understand if you're just learning how to read. The problem, however, is that I've been reading for quite a long time.

So how does this game differ from the original Bomberman? Well there are a ton of mini-games that are repetitive and aimless, there's an actual plot (although the story is pretty hard to digest), and it encourages you to do more than run around and bomb your friends.

Unfortunately, the classic battle mode is the only thing that really keeps this game interesting. One of the most timeless games in history is probably Bomberman 64. I still play that consistently with my friends. I can't imagine a world where it won't be an entertaining game.

So if your young child wants a game for the Wii, I recommend Bomberman Land. If you're in college and like the original Bomberman, wait until they re-release it for WiiWare later this year.

Grade: C-

Super Smash Bros.: Brawl - the Review

It was 11 a.m., but due to Daylight Savings Time, I thought it was 10 a.m. I looked at my computer screen when it dawned on me that I was an hour late to go to Best Buy and pick up my own copy of Super Smash Bros.: Brawl.

I rushed out the door, jumped on a bus, and waited in tooth-chattering anticipation to run into Best Buy and snatch up one of the few remaining copies. After all, the Chicago RedEye told me that it was going to be a hot commodity.

The bus pulls up next to Best Buy. I run in. I look frantically around. And there it is. An entire shelf full of the game, none of them to have been bought.

Now to the actual review. Sorry for the prosey intro about my internal struggle.

Super Smash Bros.: Brawl, in short, is every nerd's greatest dreams come true. You don't have to pay for online mode, you get to play as Solid Snake, Sonic, or Mario (although you gotta love Luigi in this one), and it's incredibly fun.

Play it with your friends, play it alone, or play it online - this game will be eternally fun. Like Melee before it, this game isn't dated. It just keeps being fun.

There are mini-game time wasters and you may very well fry your brain playing this game for hours and hours, but its worth it. With songs from games in years past and even the classic Donkey Kong level as one of the possibilities, this game is a nostalgic overload.

Plus its really surreal seeing Sonic become invincible from one of Mario's classic stars.

I love this game. I could write volumes about how much I love this game. I could write ballads and love notes to this game. You can use a variety of controls, play a number of characters, and go through the extensive adventure mode without getting bored. The soundtrack isn't even annoying! In all honesty, I wish I wasn't reviewing this game so I could go and play it.

Buy this game - take it in.

Grade: A+

WiiWare - What to Expect

Have you heard about WiiWare? Let me drop some knowledge on you.

WiiWare is essentially an extra facet of the Wii Shop Channel. Taking a cue from the Xbox Live Arcade, it will feature games specifically developed for the Wii (you know, instead of the TurboGrafx 16). The new games will hit on May 12, 2008. And what are these games? Let's check it out.

- Defend Your Castle - The bloody stick figure game of little strategy and lots of death. It's unnecessary, and I would recommend playing it online instead of spending five bucks on it. If you want to play it, check it out here.
- Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: My Life as a King - Interesting. Check out the Italian trailer.

- LostWinds - Again, one of the cooler looking things releasing for WiiWare. Control the power of the wind to help a young spirit guide...you know, it just sounds stupid unless you see a picture.

See, there's your little guy, and the blue line is the Wiimote telling him to move - with the power of the wind!

There are only a few examples. Any questions?

Another Waste of Wii Space

Trying to come up with some cool multi-platform ideas, Nintendo has outdone itself with the ridiculously unnecessary Wii TV Guide Channel, released today in Japan (with no current plans to invade Europe or North America, mind you).

"Friends" again?

It's a TV Guide that you can see on your Wii, which also turns your WiiMote into a universal remote (in Japan), so that's kind of cool (in Japan). You can also see what your friends are planning on watching.

Not interested! Keep trying, Nintendo.

"Harvey Birdman: Attorney at Law" Review

I know that I've made it quite clear how much passion and excitement I had going into this game. Maybe you didn't know that, but hey, check the archives. My excitement was laid out very plainly.

Harvey Birdman: Attorney at Law only holds up if you're a fan. Even then, it has its problems. The show features a lot of dry, blink-and-you'll-miss-it humor. The game tries to capture the same thing, but doesn't keep the same pace, thus some of the comedy falls flat.

The game was developed by Capcom, the same guys who did Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney for the DS. It follows the same guidelines, but doesn't really equal out to the same results. The Phoenix games are obscenely fun, which is frightening since they're law games, but the Birdman game doesn't take the format quite as seriously. Sometimes cases get solved in your favor when the judge gets bored, which is funny...but it still seems to distract.

I'm glad to see cameos from Hanna Barbera chacters - Magilla Gorilla, Secret Squirell, and Peter Potamus are all on board for the first two cases. Also, since Capcom has the rights, you can find hidden videos with "Street Fighter" characters on the scene. I'm nothing but happy about seeing Guile's hair catch fire.

I wanted so badly for this game to be great. However, I'm not all too concerned with playing it or even finishing it. For the same results, I could get around to watching the last two seasons of the show. The game is funny, but I'm going to wait until the game gets severely cut in price before I consider picking it up.

For fans of the show, rent the game. For fans of the Phoenix Wright games, wait for Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney (out tomorrow) and forget about this thing. Everybody else, I'd ignore this guy completely, alright? Goody!

Grade: C