Video Game Freedom

Man marries a Nintendo DS video game character

2009-12-17T20:19:00.004-05:00

A surprising story out of Japan today as cnn.com reported a 27-year old Tokyo man has married a video game character.

You read that correctly, a grown - or allegedly grown - man has married his virtually girlfriend from the Nintendo DS dating game "Love Plus."

The man who understandably only gave the name "Sal 9000" married Nene Anegasaki this past week in front of a collection of friends and broadcast on the internet for everyone to see.

According to the CNN report, Sal 9000 understands his marriage is not legally binding - however - he said a living, breathing girlfriend is no longer a necessity:

She doesn't get angry if I'm late in replying to her. Well, she gets angry, but she forgives me quickly.

The CNN video is below:

The game as interactive simulation where virtual girlfriends interact with players communicating primarily through speaking to the DS although the game eventually prompts users to "kiss" the screen. That's not to mention the possibility of the game's other potentionally freaky features.

Sorry English speaking gamers, the game is a Japanese-only title thus far.

Sal said he has even taken Nene with him on vacation to Disneyland and Guam:

If addiction is playing this every single day, then you might call me addicted

Another video report on Sal 9000 and his new bride:

Nevertheless, if this Japanese man doesn't signify the decline of physical communication as a result of the digital revolution, I don't know what is.

What do you think? Can you replace human interaction with a video game? What video game character would you date?

Halo Reach Debut Trailer

2009-12-13T20:48:00.004-05:00

At "Spike TV's Video Game Awards" Bungie Studios unveiled a first glimpse of the next installment of the "Halo" franchise.

The prequel to 2001's widely popular first-person shooter "Halo: Combat Evolved," "Halo Reach" is said to feature the elite military unit called "The Spartan Project" on the military supply planet aptly named "Reach" - hence the game's title.

Those interested in the playing the game's beta next year will need to own a copy of "Halo 3: ODST" to receive an invitation. "Halo" fans will have a long wait to "reach" with the game's release slated for Fall 2010.

More information on "Reach" can be found at the game's official site at Bungie.net.

15 Years of Playstation

2009-12-03T17:10:00.003-05:00

Today marks the 15th anniversary of the Japanese launch of the Sony Playstation.

Although the Sony console didn't make its way state-side until 1995, the CD-ROM based video game system quickly left an impression on the industry resulting in to subsequent console releases as well as a handheld.

Tackling the Sega Saturn and eventually winning-out against the Nintendo 64, the Sony Playstation introduced a new alternative in the gaming market and provided game developers a cheaper format for which to design games.

The release of the Playstation 2 in 2000 precluded a record-breaking sales figure of over 130 million units sold and was the first console to embark on Sony's 10-year life cycle which is barely holding on into 2010.

The console giant later released its first bout into the handheld gaming market with the Playstation Portable in Japan in 2004 and later the US in 2005. It was Sony's attempt to release Nintendo's stranglehold on the market although it has proven unsuccessful thus far playing second banana to the Nintendo DS.

Finally the 2006 release of the Playstation 3 was Sony's first misstep as the former console leader dropped to third falling behind the Microsoft Xbox 360 and the widely popular Nintendo Wii. Combating criticism of difficult development from game makers despite the consoles powerful "cell processor," Sony also priced itself out of reach from many gamers with an initial $599 price tag. Only until Sony's recent price drop has sales finally swung back in Sony's favor.

Nevertheless, with nearly every milestone video game title making its way to a Sony console in the last 15 years it is hard to ignore the importance of Playstation's impact on the industry.

To illustrate the point, below is a list of just a few popular franchises that were first launched on a Sony console:

Resident Evil
Tomb Raider
Metal Gear Solid
Gran Turismo
Silent Hill
Devil May Cry
Kingdom Hearts
Tekken
Medal of Honor
Ratchet and Clank
Twisted Metal

Medal of Honor Engages Modern Warfare

2009-12-02T18:19:00.004-05:00

Just weeks after Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2's record breaking release Electronic Arts made an announcement yesterday that the company's popular first-person shooter franchise Medal of Honor will receive a much needed restart.

In a press release the company wrote the typically WWII-only FPS series will explore modern conflicts through the eyes of the elite Tier 1 Operator a military entity under the National Command Authority.

According to the release, development studios and EALA will handle the single-player campaign while EA DICE will design the multiplayer side of the new title set to launch on the Xbox 360, Playstation 3, and PC in Fall 2010.

These two studios are coming together to deliver a world-class Medal of Honor that is poised to re-set and re-boot the franchise for a new generation.

No news on the gameplay of the shooter as of yet, but the story will surround a band of fictional soldiers as they interact with not-so-fictional events in Afghanistan.

Sean Decker, VP and General Manager of EALA, said the new title simply named "Medal of Honor" is going to focus heavily on its narrative.

EA has always been an advocate for telling the soldiers’ story. The new Medal of Honor follows that tradition. We felt it was important to tell the story of today’s war and today’s elite soldiers via today’s most relevant medium – videogames.

It appears that players will encounter possible moral delimmas when facing real life events in one of the most violently active corners of the globe according to the release.

Inspired by real events, Medal of Honor reveals the mission of today’s most elite American soldier – his will, his mindset and his uncompromising professionalism.

As of now there is little on the game's official web site aside from a 9 second video that simply shows what is likely to be the game's tagline "I fight with my mind. My hands and my weapons are an extention of my will."

Finally, eager fans of the series ready to see the franchise take a step away from the oversaturated World War II genre can get a first-look on Spike TV’s 2009 Video Game Awards at 11 p.m. EST/8 p.m. PST Saturday, Dec 12.

VGF Magazine on Sale!!!!

2009-11-30T21:28:00.005-05:00

Yes its been on sale for over a week now, but now it really is On Sale!!!!!

Order your copy of "VGF Magazine" today for only $1.60 thanks to MagCloud's holiday sale. All magazines are 25% off and that of course includes "VGF Magazine."

Place your order and support VGF.

VGF 2009 Holiday Gift Guide

2009-11-26T18:51:00.005-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone and like I was told by a source earlier in the week "Gobble Gobble."

Hopefully you're awake from your turkey nap and ready to get back to bed from some of tomorrow's "Black Friday" doorbuster deals.

That being said, make sure you are prepared with the knowledge of this year's hottest video game for the gamer in your life. To lend you a helping hand, below is a list of biggest games this holiday season by console and genre:

Wii Exclusive
New Super Mario Bros. Wii

Poor Wii owners haven't really had much to celebrate this year, but leave it to Nintendo to release at least one must-have Nintendo title per year. "New Super Mario Bros. Wii" is not only that title this year, it is one of the hottest games across all consoles this holiday season. Young gamers and older Mario fans will have an amazing nostalgic trip playing Mario in his original 2D glory in an all new game.

Xbox 360 Exclusive
Halo 3: ODST

Sure it's not Master Chief, but it is Halo. Halo 3: ODST focuses on an "Orbital Drop Shock Troope" unit as you traverse an open world first-person shooter environment. Although it did not receive as high marks as other games in the "Halo" series, "ODST" is sure to please any Xbox 360 and "Halo" fan - and there are a lot out there.

Playstation 3 Exclusive
Uncharted 2: Among Thieves

This sequel to the 2007 PS3 action-adventure title is also one of the year's most critically acclaimed games. "Uncharted 2: Among Thieves" does everything a sequel should by being bigger, longer and more beautiful. Couple that with a thematic style fully integrated with gameplay and you have the biggest Playstation 3 exclusive holiday release of 2009.

Nintendo DS Exclusive
The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks

Although this title is not available until Dec. 7, "The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks" is certain to be a game DS owners will love this coming holiday season. This time series hero Link is a train conductor traveling across Hyrule. The game is sure to utilize many of the same gameplay mechanics of the DS the same way it's predecessor "Phantom Hourglass" did in 2007.

Playstation Portable Exclusive
Little Big Planet

If you're not a PS3 owner, but have a PSP you need to get your hands on "Little Big Planet" for the PSP. It's PS3 brother own numerous awards last year including "Game of the Year" from the Interactive Achievement Awards and this year's PSP version of the 2D side-scroller is certain to light up your PSP very soon.

First-Person Shooter
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2
Xbox 360, PS3, PC

Breaking the world record for the biggest entertainment release with over $550 million in sale the first week "Modern Warfare 2" is on the top of every first-person shooter's wish list. Blending a solid story with a deep multiplayer experience and new co-operative modes and you have a golden release already enjoyed by millions across the globe. Remember to click here for VGF's preview-review of "Modern Warfare 2."

Action-Adventure
Assassin's Creed 2
Xbox 360, PS3, PC

Early reviews are showing that this year's sequel to the 2007 action-adventure title builds on the city-scaping thriller. Italian assassin Ezio Auditore di Firenze (like you need to be told he is Italian) races across rooftops, streets, and waterways to seize his pray in this open world, time traveling title. Like "Uncharted 2" this sequel is bigger and better than its brilliant predecessor.

Rhythm Game
The Beatles: Rock Band
Wii, Xbox 360, PS3

Sure it's a band-exclusive game, but it's "The Beatles." Showcasing one of the world's greatest musical groups in a game that is well polished and meets gamers with a non-abrasive difficulty, "The Beatles: Rock Band" is sure to please. Add two full album track packs - and another in December - and you have a game that will continue giving beyond 2009.

Order "VGF Magazine" TODAY!!!

2009-11-19T19:40:00.004-05:00

It's up and it's live!

You can now officially order your copy of the very first issue of "VGF Magazine" today!!!

For only $2.00 plus shipping and handling you can can order the inaugural issue of the published supplement to VGF!

Following the link below to order your copy through MagCloud.com:

"VGF Magazine"
issue 1. November 2009
http://magcloud.com/browse/Issue /41743

Included in this issue:

"The Best of Video Game Freedom"

REVIEW: Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots
FEATURE: Six Health Care Solutions from Video Games
OPINION: Motion Controls Alienate Core Gamers
MOVIE REVIEW: Milk

Delivery usually arrives in about a week and please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments when you receive your copy.

Please order and support an independent video game journalist!

Preview-Review - Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2

2009-11-17T18:19:00.006-05:00

Yes, it sold over 40 million copies the first day of its release.

Yes, there is a mission where players can choose to massacre innocent civilians in an Russian airport.

Yes, you can choose to bypass that mission with no penalty.

Finally, yes, it is likely to receive several video game honors and awards.

Just in case you haven't heard any of the pervasive hype surrounding this year's biggest video game release, I'm talking about Infinity Ward's and Activision's "Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2" the direct sequel to 2007's "Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare."

In a series first, "Modern Warfare 2" continues the story of its 2007 predecessor with the formation of a new Russian ultra-nationalist Vladimir Makarov as he rekindles the throne of the fallen Imran Zakhaev to cause more havoc and destruction in another go around.

The strange thing about the "Call of Duty" series is that the plot of any given title takes a backseat to its intensive and explosion happy gameplay although many of the games' most dramatic cinematic moments are fueled by the basics of what's happening in the story. As a result, you don't find yourself paying much attention to the finer details of the story although what's going on can have a profound emotional impact when intense, emotional heart strings are picked.

With that being said - and without my completion of the game - "Modern Warfare 2" doesn't seem to break any ground in a narrative sense even though the game has received a lot of publicity from it's risky "Russian Airport" scene.

Thankfully, the same great gameplay from the series returns.

Anyone familiar with the previous two installments of the series can literally pick up and play the game from the title screen. It's refreshing to experience a series built on consistency rather than trying to reinvent its gameplay - I'm looking at you Final Fantasy.

Veteran's of the series can expect the same great campaign and multiplayer experience with the addition of two-person "Special Op" missions. However, I don't know if it's just me, but I can't seem to figure out how play with another person online in a tactical mission without inviting someone from my friends list.

I've personally spent the majority of my time in the game's in-depth online multiplayer matches. A few added upgrades make the experience a more balanced bout with "death streaks" which allow you to even the playing field after being killed a consistent number of times. There are also new challenges, a customizable emblem tag, and new "kill streaks" to keep things interesting in the same great experience millions of "Call of Duty 4" and "World at War" fan have enjoyed.

However, it seems as though these additions may be a little too forgiving. I understand there are some real..."gifted players" that reached level 60 by the time I purchased the game last Saturday (giving them 5 days to do so), but the average level of players is in the 30s. I haven't really played the game that extensively and I am already at level 11.

You are given a wide array of bonuses from things such as taking revenge on a player that just killed you or by saving another teams mate. This yields quicker level progression and makes the acquisition of those levels feel less rewarding.

Nevertheless, "Modern Warfare 2" is more the same.

It's the same great gameplay, brilliant visuals, dramatic presentation, and rewarding multiplayer. In this case more of the same is a good thing.

However, this consistency does not move the series much further and "Modern Warfare 2" seems to ever so slightly dissatisfy its monumental hype.

Resident Evil 5 Review

2009-11-10T17:50:00.004-05:00

8.5 out of 10

The "Resident Evil" franchise has been hailed as the inaugural title in the survival horror franchise with the release of the original "Resident Evil" on the Sony Playstation in 1996.

13 years later, the series takes the genre in a new, not as scary, but incredibly fun direction in "Resident Evil 5" for the Xbox 360 and PS3.

RE5 returns to the story of Chris Redfield a Bioterrorism Security Assessment Alliance (B.S.A.A.) agent 10 years after the Raccoon City incident from the original "Resident Evil." This time, Chris is sent to Africa to investigate potential biochemical arms deal in the remote city of Kljuju. There, Chris meets African B.S.A.A. agent Sheva Alomar and the two reluctantly team-up in the investigation of the potential threat. What results is an experience filled great gameplay, beautifully crafted visuals, familiar characters, and a new way of playing: teamwork.

Fans of 2005 release of "Resident Evil 4" will feel right at home as the same gameplay and basic control scheme returns. The quasi-first to -third person gameplay from RE4 finds its way into RE5 and hasn't lost any of its charm.

The controls are intentionally clunky and frustrating at times - yielding a slight learning curve - to created added suspense when the player is faced with a limited viewpoint and a series of equipment commands while a hoard of biochemically altered zombies attack from all sides.

However, this time around you're not alone.

The new buddy system allows Shiva to tag along with you every step of the way. You can control her actions via quick commands such as "cover" or "attack" and often the two-person system is utilized in several high-tension and puzzle sequences.

RE5's new gameplay scheme reaches its peak when that same two-player cooperative play is taken online. Playing through the game's campaign modes, players can either allow other players to join their campaign at any time or aid a friend in their campaign. The best part is that players bring with them all of their items they have collected throughout the game.

If you are a newcomer to the campaign, a friend can join-in and bring with them all of the items they've collected after completing the game themselves. That certainly makes some of the game's more challenging sequences easier to complete with an experienced player on-hand.

Nevertheless, this also leads to some potential issues when RE5 veterans join a newcomer's game and push them along the chapter without allowing the newcomer to explore the game's environments. To make matters worse, players tend be annoying on headsets and often impatient with newcomers. Commands are also present when playing online, so some gamers may receive a constant barrage of "hey" and "come on" commands from impatient veterans.

By simply having another person with you throughout the game makes RE5 less of a survival horror game and more of a survival third-person shooter. Yes, there are a few frightening moments, but having a friend there with you provides enough comfort to make this a title focused more on cooperative gameplay and less on sending chills down your spine.

The visuals of RE5 are incredible. Environments are brilliantly vivid and character models have a surprising level of detail with no glitches. This is perhaps one of the best looking games of the current console generation. I just wish the game's cinematic scenes were built in real time rather than noticeable, pre-rendered video files. Also, those sequence usually offer poor sound at a lower volume than the rest of the game.

The game feels a little short in length even though there are a few additional gameplay options and a lot of unlockable content. However, in order to attain added goodies it would take a lengthy and repetitive trip through the game that a lot of gamers will pass on.

Overall, "Resident Evil 5" is a solid addition to the "Resident Evil" franchise with a few cameo appearances from series characters and a story that is just about par for the course - no more. Nevertheless, two-player cooperative gameplay is a satisfying and refreshing addition to the series when you're playing with a civilized individual.

Modern Warfare 2: Countdown to Hysteria

2009-11-09T16:13:00.004-05:00

The release of this year's biggest video game release "Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2" is just hours away.

I was even asked to write a brief for my local paper "The Saginaw News" about what's going on in my area.

300 expected at Saginaw County's GameStop for 12:01 a.m. Tuesday release of Call of Duty

With the possibility of the game setting new records for sales, it might not be a bad idea to check this one out.

A Mario Marriage Proposal

2009-11-04T17:50:00.005-05:00

One imaginative fellow decided he would surprise his video game loving - or at least video game playing - girlfriend by proposing to her while playing "Super Mario World."

Actually, the game sort of proposed to her.

He used the the program "Lunar Magic" to create new levels in "Super Mario World" by altering the ROM file and playing the game through an emulator.

The result?

"Will you marry me Lisa?" written in coins in one of the most geeky marriage proposals ever imagined. And she did indeed say yes.

Checkout the video below:

VGF Magazine Issue 1. November Coming Soon

2009-11-02T18:19:00.002-05:00

Very soon you will have you chance of ordering your copy of the first issue of "VGF Magazine."

The 8-page magazine is the "Best of Video Game Freedom" issue and features of the best content from "Video Game Freedom" thus far and is complete with stunning layout and design.

You will soon be able to order your copy - and some for your friends - at MagCloud.com at a low cost of $2.00 plus shipping!

Shipments will take about a week to arrive.

Be on the lookout for purchasing information here on VGF in the near future.

Netflix on the PS3 Soon, Wii next

2009-10-26T17:48:00.005-04:00

Netflix will be streaming movies to Playstation 3 consoles soon.

Although the movie streaming service was initially a Xbox 360 exclusive, Netflix announced that PS3 users will be able to stream HD movies using the service.

Initially, PS3 owners will need to order a Blu-ray disc will will access Netflix content via the BD-Live service.

Sony console owners won't have to fiddle with a disc for long however.

Sony has also announced that there will be a firmware update integrating the Netflix service to the XrossMediaBar next year.

Wii owners will want to sit tight since it looks like Netflix is coming your way as well.

Last month Netflix CEO Reed Hastings said that the company was looking to expand the Netflix service to other outlets.

Eventually we want to be on all the game consoles, all the Blu-ray players, all the Internet TVs. So we are working in parallel with all of those efforts.

With today's PS3 announcement, it will only be a matter of time until we see Netflix on the Nintendo Wii as well.

Xbox LIVE Price Increase Coming Next Year?

2009-10-19T17:24:00.006-04:00

Next month Microsoft is planning to release a major update to the Xbox LIVE service for Xbox 360 owners with the Xbox LIVE Gold membership.

The new update is set to add new social networking features such as Facebook and Twitter as well as other media applications such as the music streaming service Last.fm and a news channel called "News and more" via content from cable news outlet MSNBC as well as NBC.

The update will also allow Xbox 360 owners to rent full 1080p television shows and movies and share them with their Zune or Windows-based PC.

Much of this update was officially announced and touted at E3 in June, however what does the future hold for the service come 2010 and beyond?

Matt Peckham, video game blogger for "PC World," recently published a post where he spoke with industry analyst Michael Pachter who is predicting the annual Xbox LIVE Gold membership cost may increase from a $50 per year subscription to $100 within the next one to two years.

In the interview, Pachter describes the tension between $50/year Xbox 360 subscribers who play their favorite games online via Xbox Live whereas PC gamers can use that same service (called Windows Live) at no cost.

However, the number of Windows Live enabled PC titles is quickly diminishing.

You can't hook a guy into Xbox LIVE Gold if he's playing on a PC. That's the other problem. You really want to hook every gamer who has a 360, you want them to buy all their games on 360, play everything multiplayer, pay $50 a year, so that in a couple of years, it's $100 a year. That's going up, we all know that.

It would make sense to phase out PC gaming if Microsoft can cohorse gamers to purchase a $300 console, a yearly $50 membership, and $60 games. But why maintain or even increase the price of the Xbox LIVE Gold membership service when competitors Nintendo and Sony offer online services for free?

Xbox LIVE Gold members make a huge profit and Xbox 360 owners will happily pay for the service.

Peckhan makes an excellent point in his post:

Xbox LIVE is a money machine for Microsoft. In May 2009, the company claimed it had 20 million Xbox LIVE subscribers. Do the math. If that were 20 million active Gold accounts (they're not, but a majority are) you're looking at as much as $1 billion in annual revenue. Bump the subscription fee to $100 and you're talking upwards of $2 billion. With that on the line, there's a roughly zero percent chance Microsoft's going to eliminate the fee entirely...

There has been no conclusive evidence that gamers have switched from the Xbox 360 to a competing console because competitors offer a free online service, but Microsoft is toeing a thin line.

The annual $50 cost may be the tipping point for Xbox LIVE players although it is a shame that Microsoft is still enforcing "gamer dues" to its consumers every year. Raise the fee to $100 per year and 360 owners may reconsider their Gold membership.

New "Prince of Persia" Game a Movie Tie-in?

2009-10-08T16:59:00.006-04:00

Reports surfaced yesterday that "Prince of Persia" creator Jordan Mechner filed a trademark request for the title "Prince of Persia The Forgotten Sands."

This announcement has led some to speculate that a possible "The Forgotten Sands" game could coincide with upcoming feature film release of "Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time" in the summer of 2010.

Although the film is being produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, early production photos of Jake Gyllenhaal's portrayal of series protagonist Prince Dastan look laughable.

With the awkward transition from homosexual cowboy to shirtless, time-traveling Persian hero aside, will we see a polygonal Gyllenhaal come next summer?

The simple answer is hopefully not.

Movie adaptations of video games have been dismal and the same could be said the either way around - although movie-games have had a better record than game-movies.

Nevertheless, a movie-game tie-in of an existing franchise has been a recipe for total disaster.

Take a look at "Street Fighter: The Movie" or even the movie-games in the "Spider-man" series which pale in comparison to standalone video games.

When video games are made into movies, fans of the series are eager for the next game in that series, not a game that follows the same visual style and story of its film partner.

Hopefully with the title "The Forgotten Sands" we are looking at a standalone video game and not a spin off movie-game.

"VGF Magazine" Coming Soon!

2009-10-06T18:18:00.003-04:00

It' has been less than a week since VGF celebrated its 2nd anniversary of existence and there is already a monumental announcement.

Coming in the near future will be the launch of "VGF Magazine."

"VGF Magazine" will publish as an occasional printed supplement to Video Game Freedom placing the news, features, reviews, and opinions you love from VGF as well as exclusive content right in the palm of your hands!

Initially, copies of "VGF Magazine" will be available for order at MagCloud.com and pricing will be set to an incredibly low price.

If you are interested in contributing to "VGF Magazine" and see your stuff in print, either leave a comment below with your email address or send writing samples to videogamefreedom@gmail.com.

In the meantime, enjoy the new magazine flag and feel free to post any comments you have.

VGF 2nd Anniversary

2009-10-01T22:04:00.002-04:00

It's been two years since I first created Video Game Freedom and that's cause to celebrate.

This year VGF received its first official look as well as added multimedia content via more podcasts, videos, and audio slide shows.

As VGF grows, be sure to look for more reviews, more features, and more content coming in year three!

Tell somebody you know about VGF today!

Sony's "PSP Go" may be a "Costly" Move

2009-09-30T14:32:00.006-04:00

In the coming days Sony will release yet another iteration of its Playstation Portable hand held console the "PSP Go."

The smaller (50% smaller in fact) and lighter (40% lighter) hand held console is attempting to capture the portable appeal of the Apple iPhone and the digital connectivity of the Nintendo DSi. However, at a $250 price tag Sony may be asking for too much.

For those of you who are new to the PSP Go here is an update on its features:

50% smaller and 40% lighter than PSP-3000
16 GB Storage
M2 Memory Stick Slot
Wireless and Bluetooth connection capibilities
No UMD drive

That last bullet point is ironically the PSP Go's most unique quality and hardest selling point.

The PSP Go will only play digitally downloaded data for all its media content such as music, pictures, videos, and yes, games.

Without a Universal Media Disc (UMD) drive, the PSP Go will be unable to play any physically exisiting PSP games in UMD form. Meaning that current PSP owners will have to either repurchase games through the Playstation Network on the PSP Go/PS3 or through their Windows based PC using Sony's "Media Go" service.

Sony has announced that PSP game publishers will still release games on UMD, so there is little risk for current PSP owners who want to stand by their apparently "immobile" PSP.

At a retail price of $250 that may be a tough pill to swallow for PSP owners and non-PSP owners alike.

You could buy a Nintendo Wii and still save $50 thanks to Nintendo's recent price cut or you could purchase a Xbox 360 Pro for the same amount. Yeck, throw in $50 and you have a new Playstation 3.

The huge price tag for the PSP Go's slick functionality will at best attract tech savvy consumers who do not already own a PSP.

Henceforth, since the PSP Go delivers no graphical improvements, only slightly faster load times, games that only exist in a quasi-imaginary "digital" format, and cost $250, I don't foresee the PSP Go flying off the shelves and I cannot recommend it to anyone.

Console War May Be Over If Microsoft Buys EA

2009-09-23T17:44:00.003-04:00

In an attempt to freak out everyone in the video game industry, there are a flurry of rumors circulating that Microsoft may be planning to purchase Electronic Arts.

Although reuters.com called the recent rumor "unsubstantiated chatter" and seattlepi.com received confirmation from Microsoft spokesman David Dennis who said "There is no truth to this rumor" and "we have no plans to purchase EA," that didn't stop EA stocks from reaching about $20 a share today.

Alas, that affect would a monstrous merger like Microsoft purchasing EA have on the entire industry?

A whole lot.

Electronic Arts has historically been the single largest video game publisher in the industry releasing the most popular franchises on the market such as "Rock Band," Need for Speed," and the hugely popular "Madden" brand in their "EA Sports" line.

If Microsoft purchased EA and dissolved it into its publishing network, all of these multi-platform titles could potentially become Xbox 360 exclusives.

That would mean that you would have to own a Xbox 360 or PC to play "Madden," or even something like "Spore" or "Burnout."

However, we saw the success Microsoft last had with purchasing development studio "Rare." Which has yielded about two games - "Perfect Dark Zero" and "Banjo Kazooie: Nuts and Bolts" - which is fewer than the Nintendo 64 received in its heyday.

Because of that, Microsoft may allow select franchises such as all "EA Sports" titles to remain multi-platform while collecting royalties from Nintendo Wii and Playstation 3 purchases.

Other franchises could become Xbox 360 exclusive and would create a substantial dent library of games for both Nintendo and Sony making the Xbox 360 a potential forerunner and possible victor in the current console war.

A grim possibility indeed, unless you're a Xbox 360 owner.

The Beatles: Rock Band Podcast Review

2009-09-21T17:04:00.009-04:00

8.5 out of 10

Pros:

It's The Beatles!
Great visuals with few game play bugs
Great potential in the form of upcoming album releases

Cons:

The "Limited Edition" version is disappointing
A little too easy
Too few tracks

Nintendo Wii Price Cut Coming September 27

2009-09-14T17:25:00.003-04:00

It seems as though every console price cut is preceded by a wave of online leaks before an official announcement is made.

Nintendo is no different.

A "Toys R Us" advertisement seems to be confirming that the price of console forerunner Nintendo Wii will be cut to $199.

The price change of the Wii would come just weeks after both Sony and Microsoft announced price cuts on their consoles bringing each to around $299 for comparable models.

However, it seems as though Microsoft's price edge with a $199 Xbox 360 Arcade will soon be met with a $199 Nintendo Wii effective September 27.

Nintendo could easily do without a price drop as consumers appear to still be enthralled with the motion controlled system which should now remain the cheapest console.

Alas, I still do not foresee any increase in sales for the Wii with the minor price reduction.

"The Beatles: Rock Band" Purchasing Guide

2009-09-09T17:18:00.004-04:00

Today "The Beatles: Rock Band" was officially released to the world as well as digitally remastered versions of the full Beatles library.

However, before you run out and drop some serious cash out of "Beatlemania" you might want to reconsider your purchasing plan and figure out what is the best strategy for you.

It is no secret to anyone that the 45-track rhythm-based game is a special treat to Beatles fans and music lovers alike and it is no secret that the "limited edition premium bundle" costs $250. This bundle includes Paul McCartney's signature Hofner Bass replica wireless guitar, a "Beatles brand" drum set, microphone, microphone stand, and the game software itself.

The less expensive "special value edition" still comes with a whopping $140 price tag and includes the game software as well as standard "Rock Band" drums, guitar, and microphone.

That's right, the $110 difference is purely for instruments that look like Paul's bass and Ringo's drums. To make things worse is that the price is consistent across consoles. Normally, the Nintendo Wii version of any "Rock Band" or "Guitar Hero" title is at least $10 cheaper due to the consoles lower graphically complexity - but not this time.

Fork out the cash Wii owners.

It is clear that this is going to be an expensive purchase if you don't already own either "Rock Band" or "Guitar Hero" bundles - remember, the instruments are inner changeable by law.

So what's the best plan of attack?

The Completest Bundle (all Beatles instruments, 3 microphones) = $510

Sadly, in order receive the full "The Beatles: Rock Band" experience you have to spend enough money to buy a couple of consoles.

The completest will want the $250 bundle as well as John's replica Rickenbacker 325 and George's Gretsch Duo-Jet guitar controllers at $100 a piece for the full Beatles experience.

So now you're at $450, but you're not done yet.

The newest feature in the "Rock Band" franchise is the ability to harmonize with fellow players in the saw way the "fab four" used it. "Rock Band" microphones cost about $30 each and up to three players can harmonize at once so that's an added $60.

Finally, you can have your full "The Beatles: Rock Band" experience at a low price of $510.

That's about the price of either an Xbox 360 or Playstation 3 and Nintendo Wii combined.

The Starter Band (microphone, drums, standard guitar, Beatles guitar) = $240

If you're not into dropping $510 or even $250 to play as the Beatles then you may want to consider the "special value edition" even though you don't get any shinny Beatles instruments.

However, you could couple that purchase with one of the special edition guitars and create your own bundle with a microphone, drums, and two guitars at only $240.

GameStop's "Beatles Rock Band Value Bundle" (Rock Band 2, microphone, drums, standard guitar) = $160

Right now you can get the exact peripherals as the "special value edition" plus "Rock Band 2" for only $20 more through GameStop.

Throw in a Beatles guitar for $100 and you sitting at $10 more than the "limited edition" with two guitars and "Rock Band 2."

Thankfully, I'm not the only one who sees how overpriced this game can be. The hefty price tag and short lived story mode was the highlight of 1up.com's review.

Nevertheless, the game looks great and hopefully you can find a purchasing method that fits your budget.

"GTA IV: The Ballad of Gay Tony" Trailer Makes its Debut

2009-09-01T18:26:00.003-04:00

A new trailer for the Xbox 360 exclusive addition to "Grand Theft Auto IV" universe was made available today.

"The Ballad of Gay Tony" - the second of two exclusive "GTA IV" episodes for the Xbox 360 - will be available on October 29 and initial reports suggest that this saga will be much more action-oriented than others in the series:

"The Ballad of Gay Tony" as well as "The Lost and the Damned" will be available as a retail disc on October 29 named "GTA: Episodes from Liberty City." The disc is also a Xbox 360 exclusive and is priced at $40.

Sony Motion Controller to have pressure sensitivity and rumble feedback

2009-08-28T16:30:00.003-04:00

Followers of Sony's Playstation Blog were treated today by a lengthy interview with Sony research and development guru Richard Marks.

Marks discloses new information about the origin of the new motion controller as well as pressure sensitivity and rumble feedback:

Strange Video Game World Records

2009-08-28T14:30:00.007-04:00

As if he haven't heard enough of how great Eidos' new "Batman" video game is, there's now official proof.

"Batman: Arkham Asylum" now holds the Guinness World record for "Most Critically Acclaimed Superhero Game Ever" with an average score of 91.67 - sorry "Superman 64."

Now that the world has received perhaps its finest superhero video game, what about other world worthy records in the video game world?

After taking a look at the "Guinness World Record: Gamer's Edition" there are a few video game records that range from the unordinary to the bizarre that you might not know about.

FIRST GAMING CLAN TO LEGALLY BIND THEIR PLAYERS

That's right "Counter Strike" clan "Team NoA" bought our team member "Ola 'elemeNt' Moum" from clan "SK Gaming" for an undisclosed amount of money in 2004. Maybe there is hope for professional gamers to become as wealthy as professional athletes.

LONGEST PRISON SENTENCE FOR PLAYING A VIDEO GAME

In September of 2002, UK native Faiz Chopdat was incarcerated for four months for playing "Tetris" on his mobile phone while on an airplane. I at least hope he accomplished a Tetris for his troubles.

FIRST VIDEO GAME SERIES TO INSPIRE A BALLET

That's right a ballet. "Dragon Quest" holds the honors here. I would have guessed one of the "Final Fantasy" games as well.

FIRST CONSOLE IN A NUCLEAR WEAPONS CONSPIRACY

In 2000, Iraq i dictator Saddam Hussein was investigated for possibly avoiding UN sanctions when a shipment of 4,000 Playstation 2 consoles were sent to Iraq. The UN sanction prohibited the sale of computer hardware to Iraq and it was feared that the Playstation 2 consoles were to be used for a guidance system for long-range missiles. Just think of the damage that could be done with a few Playstation 3's since 8 of them now make a supercomputer.

LARGEST SIMULTANEOUS VIDEO GAME EXERCISE ROUTINE

The EA Burnaby, CAN campus sports field held 605 people who simultaneously "danced," "boxed," and "curled" to "EA Sports Active" for the Nintendo Wii on May 22, 2009. That must have been one sweaty field.