TV show predictions…
Okay, I like to think that I’m pretty darn good at predicting the ways in which the storyline of a TV show is going to go and therefore, I’m generally very pleased when I’m genuinely surprised by plot turns. However, here are my predictions for some of he TV shows that I am watching at the moment.
Note: Although these are obviously not spoilers (as they are predictions), unless you are up to speed with the shows in question… Do not read.
1) Battlestar Galactica
The final Cylon (as 4 of the last five were revealed at the end of series 3) will be President Rosalin. My reasoning for this being that she has been having the same shared dream/vision with both number 6 and also Sharon (boomer – can’t remember her new name). As such, I point the finger and shout CYLON!
2) Doctor Who
For the last few series an old adversary has been added to the rejuvenated series, namely (in order of the series so far): Daleks, Cybermen and the Master. I think that for this series it will be slightly different. In actual fact I believe that it will be the Doctor himself who becomes to main villain.
My reasoning behind this is as follows:
For the last few series the doctor has been referred to at times as almost god like, with powers way beyond what someone should wield. This was driven home somewhat with the most recent episode. Therefore, I believe that for some reason something along these lines will turn the Doctor bad.
Also, it is a known fact that many of the previous assistants will be coming back towards the end of the series, namely Rose, Martha, Sarah Jane and Donna. Rather than assisting the Doctor, however, I believe that they may get together to try and stop him.
3) Lost
The final member of the Oceanic 6 will be: Locke.
It will also be Locke that was in the coffin at the end of series 3. I know that Locke is quite likely the least likely to leave the island, but I think that something will prompt him to do so.
4) 24
The next series (when completed) will:
a) Involve terrorists
b) Involve Jack almost dying on countless occasions
c) Will be only slight less inane than the last series.
Well that’s it from me today…
Monday, April 14, 2008
Friday, April 11, 2008
Mario Kart Wii Review
Okay, this can’t really be a review since I’ve only had the game for 1 day, so more like first impressions.
It has to be said that I can’t remember the last time I put so many hours into a new game on the first day that I got it. Looking at my Wii diary it is frightening how long I have played it today, and that my friends is a good sign.
I think that first of all, I think that I should address the control of the game. Very much like SSBB you have a variety of controller options, however, what you also get is the Wii Wheel. I must admit that I was a bit dubious of the Wii Wheel, being a die hard old school Mario Kart fan, however, when I first started playing I gave the Wii Wheel a swirl, and found that I kept on using it for some time, completing all the initial 4 50cc cups using it. It works rather well for a piece of plastic and for novice Mario Kart gamers it is ideal (which is likely the idea of the thing), however, I then tried the Gamecube pad and since then haven’t looked back. Control of the game using the Wii Wheel is very, very good, much better than I had expected, but when I use the Gamecube controller I find that I perform much better, and for that reason alone, I am remaining “old school” when it comes to Mario Kart control.
There are a couple of points I want to make, however. It is very evident that Nintendo would prefer you to use the Wii Wheel. The game keeps a track of how long you use the Wheel and shows the players online who are using it. I have also seen people online with golden Wheel symbols (whatever the hell those mean). However, the most telling indication of this is the button layout for the Gamecube controller. To put it frankly, I could have come up with a better button layout. For some reason they have changed the Double Dash configuration and more annoyingly, assigned the tricks to the D pad. This means, whenever you want to perform a trick, or pull a wheelie, you need to let go of the control stick, which is both unnatural and frankly dumb. I have managed to get used to it, but I can think of better ways in which the pad could be configured and it is shame that you cannot change this. However, I still believe that I do much better with the Gamecube pad, despite these annoyances.
The main bulk of the game isn’t too far removed from Mario Kart DS, some new tracks, some old tracks, but then again I’ve never been one to complain about more Mario Kart. Saying that however, there is no denying that I am loving every second of it. Of the new tracks it is a varied bunch, some are great, others less so.
Next we come onto online. The Wii tends to pick up a lot of flack from the 360 and PS3 camps due to its basic online capabilities. Yes the friend codes are a pain, but I’m normally happy just to jump into a multiplayer game without having to worry about friend codes and for that Mario Kart does admirably. There is not lag, plenty of people to play against, be it racing or battles and the game has run flawlessly so far online for me. There are also a few neat touches, such as the fact that before a race it shows the Mii of who you are racing against, and also where they are based on a globe. Also, if the race is still in progress, you get to watch this.
The match making is also good. Everyone starts with a score of 5000 and depending on wins and losses, this score will increase or decrease. You are then matched against players similar to your score, ensuring that you are equally matched. This also gives you incentive to increase your score. There are also other neat online touches such as being able to race against other players ghost data, matching your time attack time against other people in the world (boy am I good at Bowsers Castle) and also online challenges (which are not active yet – but sound fun).
So overall I have been enjoying Mario Kart Wii just as much as I had hoped. As a Mario Kart Fanatic (which I guess I am) it is everything that I could have hoped for, apart from some slight niggles. It is also a game which is well suited to both casual and more hardcore gamers, now that snaking has been removed there isn’t the gap in skill that there once was, but at the same time, practice does make perfect.
Overall, two big thumbs up.
It has to be said that I can’t remember the last time I put so many hours into a new game on the first day that I got it. Looking at my Wii diary it is frightening how long I have played it today, and that my friends is a good sign.
I think that first of all, I think that I should address the control of the game. Very much like SSBB you have a variety of controller options, however, what you also get is the Wii Wheel. I must admit that I was a bit dubious of the Wii Wheel, being a die hard old school Mario Kart fan, however, when I first started playing I gave the Wii Wheel a swirl, and found that I kept on using it for some time, completing all the initial 4 50cc cups using it. It works rather well for a piece of plastic and for novice Mario Kart gamers it is ideal (which is likely the idea of the thing), however, I then tried the Gamecube pad and since then haven’t looked back. Control of the game using the Wii Wheel is very, very good, much better than I had expected, but when I use the Gamecube controller I find that I perform much better, and for that reason alone, I am remaining “old school” when it comes to Mario Kart control.
There are a couple of points I want to make, however. It is very evident that Nintendo would prefer you to use the Wii Wheel. The game keeps a track of how long you use the Wheel and shows the players online who are using it. I have also seen people online with golden Wheel symbols (whatever the hell those mean). However, the most telling indication of this is the button layout for the Gamecube controller. To put it frankly, I could have come up with a better button layout. For some reason they have changed the Double Dash configuration and more annoyingly, assigned the tricks to the D pad. This means, whenever you want to perform a trick, or pull a wheelie, you need to let go of the control stick, which is both unnatural and frankly dumb. I have managed to get used to it, but I can think of better ways in which the pad could be configured and it is shame that you cannot change this. However, I still believe that I do much better with the Gamecube pad, despite these annoyances.
The main bulk of the game isn’t too far removed from Mario Kart DS, some new tracks, some old tracks, but then again I’ve never been one to complain about more Mario Kart. Saying that however, there is no denying that I am loving every second of it. Of the new tracks it is a varied bunch, some are great, others less so.
Next we come onto online. The Wii tends to pick up a lot of flack from the 360 and PS3 camps due to its basic online capabilities. Yes the friend codes are a pain, but I’m normally happy just to jump into a multiplayer game without having to worry about friend codes and for that Mario Kart does admirably. There is not lag, plenty of people to play against, be it racing or battles and the game has run flawlessly so far online for me. There are also a few neat touches, such as the fact that before a race it shows the Mii of who you are racing against, and also where they are based on a globe. Also, if the race is still in progress, you get to watch this.
The match making is also good. Everyone starts with a score of 5000 and depending on wins and losses, this score will increase or decrease. You are then matched against players similar to your score, ensuring that you are equally matched. This also gives you incentive to increase your score. There are also other neat online touches such as being able to race against other players ghost data, matching your time attack time against other people in the world (boy am I good at Bowsers Castle) and also online challenges (which are not active yet – but sound fun).
So overall I have been enjoying Mario Kart Wii just as much as I had hoped. As a Mario Kart Fanatic (which I guess I am) it is everything that I could have hoped for, apart from some slight niggles. It is also a game which is well suited to both casual and more hardcore gamers, now that snaking has been removed there isn’t the gap in skill that there once was, but at the same time, practice does make perfect.
Overall, two big thumbs up.
Delayed :(
Dear LEE HARRIS,This email is to inform you that one or more products listed below from your order has been delayed from shipping. At this time, we do not have a ship date, but your backordered product(s) should be available again within the next 30 days.
Order Contents:
Rock Band Bundle
Bummer...
On a lighter note I have Mario Kart Wii and am enjoying this no end... Will likely blog about it in the not too distant future.
Order Contents:
Rock Band Bundle
Bummer...
On a lighter note I have Mario Kart Wii and am enjoying this no end... Will likely blog about it in the not too distant future.
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
Rock band incoming…
Okay, hands up… I folded.
I’ve ordered Rock Band on import.
The reason for this is that I actually managed to find somewhere where it could be imported at a reasonable price. Most online retailers are either sold out or are charging an absolute fortune for the Rock Band bundle. Ebay is worse, where you will have to pay in the region of £170-£200+ for the bundle, and even then not be guaranteed that it is a quality product.
Luckily I stumbled across Barnes and Noble, from a recommendation on a forum. There site is here:
Barnes & Noble
It seems like a really good site actually.
From here I have managed to get the Rock Band bundle including postage for just under £104.00! A pretty good deal in my book. So hopefully should be getting this in the post in the not too distant future :)
My only concern now is DLC. I know that there is a way around this using online credit cards and also the fact that PSN cards may be out in the not too distant future, however, I expect that I won’t be too concerned about DLC initially, I’m sure that I’ll have plenty to keep me occupied.
I will likely blog with my report on the game when I get it through.
I’ve ordered Rock Band on import.
The reason for this is that I actually managed to find somewhere where it could be imported at a reasonable price. Most online retailers are either sold out or are charging an absolute fortune for the Rock Band bundle. Ebay is worse, where you will have to pay in the region of £170-£200+ for the bundle, and even then not be guaranteed that it is a quality product.
Luckily I stumbled across Barnes and Noble, from a recommendation on a forum. There site is here:
Barnes & Noble
It seems like a really good site actually.
From here I have managed to get the Rock Band bundle including postage for just under £104.00! A pretty good deal in my book. So hopefully should be getting this in the post in the not too distant future :)
My only concern now is DLC. I know that there is a way around this using online credit cards and also the fact that PSN cards may be out in the not too distant future, however, I expect that I won’t be too concerned about DLC initially, I’m sure that I’ll have plenty to keep me occupied.
I will likely blog with my report on the game when I get it through.
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
"normal"
I went to the doctor today for the results from my blood tests, ECG and blood pressure monitor…
The results are… I’m fine
I do not have high blood pressure… I do not have heart disease, liver disease or any other nasty blood pressure related shenanigans… No I’m “normal”, which is good in my book.
What my doctor did say that I have is “white coat blood pressure”. What this basically boils down to is that I’m paranoid, or more specifically, my body is paranoid. Whenever I have my blood pressure taken my body hits panic mode and any blood pressure shots up. At all other times, like during the day and night, my blood pressure is fine.
So good new today and I have to say that it is a relief, as I have been quietly panicking these last couple of weeks.
Now what was that I just read about Rock Band????
DAMN!!!! (Blood pressure shoots up again)
The results are… I’m fine
I do not have high blood pressure… I do not have heart disease, liver disease or any other nasty blood pressure related shenanigans… No I’m “normal”, which is good in my book.
What my doctor did say that I have is “white coat blood pressure”. What this basically boils down to is that I’m paranoid, or more specifically, my body is paranoid. Whenever I have my blood pressure taken my body hits panic mode and any blood pressure shots up. At all other times, like during the day and night, my blood pressure is fine.
So good new today and I have to say that it is a relief, as I have been quietly panicking these last couple of weeks.
Now what was that I just read about Rock Band????
DAMN!!!! (Blood pressure shoots up again)
Saturday, April 05, 2008
No, No, NOOOOOOO!!!!! *sob* :(
I have just read the most disturbing of rumours here:
Via Kotaku
This rumour states that the European release date for Rock Band is due in May... but just for the Xbox360! The PS3 version is dealyed until September!!!!????!!!!
That's September.... SEPTEMBER!!!!!!
Why!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Now this is of course a rumour, but these things have a history of becoming true. I just don't see why the PS3 version would be delayed. The PS3 is doing well in Europe when compared to the 360 (the same couldn't be said for the US) and it's not as if the game hasn't already been released months ago elsewhere...
Must calm down and await an official annoucement... grrrr....
Via Kotaku
This rumour states that the European release date for Rock Band is due in May... but just for the Xbox360! The PS3 version is dealyed until September!!!!????!!!!
That's September.... SEPTEMBER!!!!!!
Why!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Now this is of course a rumour, but these things have a history of becoming true. I just don't see why the PS3 version would be delayed. The PS3 is doing well in Europe when compared to the 360 (the same couldn't be said for the US) and it's not as if the game hasn't already been released months ago elsewhere...
Must calm down and await an official annoucement... grrrr....
Friday, April 04, 2008
Hostel 2 and absolute last star
Film watched:
Hostel: part 2
Hostel: part 2
Odious and mean. A disappointing sequel, lacking originals perverted humour.
4.5/10
Well, I’ve done it…
I’ve got every single star in Super Mario Galaxy, both by Mario and in effectively “hard mode” using the second character introduced after you (fully) complete the game first. Was it hard? Damn right it was. One stage in particular, namely the Battlerock purple comet stage, took me countless attempts and quite literally had me screaming at my TV.
Oh well, Elliot is please that I’ve completed it. He’s been watching me play and assisting me with the second Wiimote. Although for some reason he wants me to play through it all for a 3rd time :-\
Just 1 week now until Mario Kart Wii!
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Mario Car!
Game are currently running a competition in the UK, where at any of the 30 stores in the UK where the competition is being run, you can attempt to get the best lap time on a single track on Mario Kart Wii.
The winners from this will then go onto a grand final on the launch of Mario Kart Wii, where the winner will win the grand price, which is this:
Now is that not both the geekiest and coolest car you have ever set your eyes upon!
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Dead Fantasy
I don't know how I missed the first one - but boy am I impressed.
Dead Fantasy and Dead Fantasy 2 are two fan movies put together by someone by the name of Monty Oum. They mesh together the stars of Dead or Alive and Final Fantasy in what has got to be the most spectacular game related fan movies I have ever seen. How the hell did he do it?
Somebody hire this guy!
Anyway, the link below is to the wired site, which helpfully has a link to both videos
Dead Fantasy 1 and 2
It has to be said that the Final Fantasy gals kick some serious ass - especially Tifa and Rinoa
Dead Fantasy and Dead Fantasy 2 are two fan movies put together by someone by the name of Monty Oum. They mesh together the stars of Dead or Alive and Final Fantasy in what has got to be the most spectacular game related fan movies I have ever seen. How the hell did he do it?
Somebody hire this guy!
Anyway, the link below is to the wired site, which helpfully has a link to both videos
Dead Fantasy 1 and 2
It has to be said that the Final Fantasy gals kick some serious ass - especially Tifa and Rinoa
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Guitar Hero DS
OH MY GOD - This is either going to be absolutely awful or absolutely incredible. It's hard to say until you actually get a chance to play...
Take look here for it in action:
High BP, Brick and snaking
Okay then – onto my blood pressure…I went to the doctors the other day for some repeat prescriptions, and also to have my blood pressure taken following on from my increased blood pressure at the beginning of the year. Now bear in mind that since then I have:
- Increased the amount of exercise I do (i.e. go out on my bike 3-4 times a week and also go for more walks)
- Cut out almost all junk food, i.e. sweets, chocolate, chips, fast food etc.
-Watched the level of salt intake that I have in a day and reduced this as much as possible.
- Massively increased the amount of fruit and veg I have in the day, easily having between 6-8 portions a day.
- Taken up meditation, which I probably do 4-5 times a week (although I have been a little lax of late).
As such, I had expected my blood pressure to have dropped even further, but no, instead it has increased dramatically again to (if my memory is correct) 146/109. Definitely not good.
As such, it looks like a full gone conclusion that I will be diagnosed with high blood pressure, and as such be on medication for the rest of my life. So, a bit of a bummer to say the least, especially after all my hard work to improve my health (which I will be continuing btw). However, I should have guessed that something was up, as I was getting more and more stress like headaches over the last week, as well as feeling a little run down, which is similar to how I felt the first time that my high blood pressure was identified.
Anyway, I had an ECG this morning and also a blood test – so hopefully I should get the result from these soon. In addition to this I also have to wear a blood test monitor for 1 whole day at the beginning of April
Film watched:
Brick
Dames, drugs and detectives. Modern teenage noire that doesn’t quite gel.
6.5/10
I have recently read in the Official Nintendo Magazine that for Mario Kart Wii, that snaking has effectively been removed from the series. Snaking, for those of you who don’t know, relates to a technique used to gain additional boosts during a race. Normally in Mario Kart you can gain a boost out of a curve, by power sliding around a bend whilst alternatively pressing left and right to get a boost. Now some people take this technique and apply it to straights, effectively turning left and right alternatively whilst activating boosts from power slides – or as it is better know, snaking. This gives an unfair advantage to those who have mastered the art of snaking, which was especially evident when Mario Kart was played online on the DS.Whilst it is still possible to get a boost from power sliding on Mario Kart Wii (as well as pulling wheelies on bikes), this is based on the amount of time you hold a power slide as oppose to how quickly you can waggle left and right. As such, this has effectively eliminated snaking from the game and ensures that power slides are used as originally intended. This is quite possibly the most sensible move possible my Nintendo to ensure that races are as fair as possible.
BTW, have mentioned how excited I am (and Elliot) about Mario Kart Wii? Just over 2 weeks to go now :)
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Arthur C Clarke RIP
I had planned to blog this lunchtime about my renewed blood pressure issues, maybe I’ll leave that for another day. Instead I read the sad news that Arthur C Clarke has just passed away, aged 90.
It has to be said that he was not only a genius (invented the communications satellite) but also an exceptional writer. Rendezvous with Rama is one of my all time favourites and I have also enjoyed numerous other books written by him. It also has to be said, that as I kid I was always glued to the TV series Arthur C Clarke’s Mysterious World, which at the time I thought was the greatest TV show ever.
It is a sad, sad day and he will be greatly missed.
It has to be said that he was not only a genius (invented the communications satellite) but also an exceptional writer. Rendezvous with Rama is one of my all time favourites and I have also enjoyed numerous other books written by him. It also has to be said, that as I kid I was always glued to the TV series Arthur C Clarke’s Mysterious World, which at the time I thought was the greatest TV show ever.
It is a sad, sad day and he will be greatly missed.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Stardust
Film watched:
Stardust
Whimiscal fairytale fantasy adventure, very Princess Bride, very good.
8/10
Stardust
Whimiscal fairytale fantasy adventure, very Princess Bride, very good.
8/10
Thursday, March 06, 2008
Too many games!
I have come to the conclusion that there are simply a stupid number of good games due out in 2008, and rather strangely most of these are not bunched up during the regular busy Christmas period.
I am not someone who can have too many games going at the same time, instead I tend to focus on one or two particular games at a time (although saying that, I just realised that I’m currently playing through the following: Half Life 2 (PS3), Super Mario Galaxy (Wii), COD4 (online PS3), Final Fantasy: Revenant Wings and Advance Wars: Days of Ruin). As such, from the list of games that I would like, I’m sure that there will be some that I don’t have time to get and play.
As such, I thought I’d do my own little preview of the games due out which I’m interested in and assign some sort of anticipation rating to them.
Ratings key:
*** Would like to play, but may have to skip if released next to another game.
**** Really looking forward to
***** Must play, my life depends on it!
Game: Ace Attorney: Apollo Justice
Format: DS
Release date: Out Now (US)
Rating: *****
Details: I have loved the previous games in the series and look forward to this immensely. I have actually just recently ordered this on import and should receive it in a week or two.
Game: Professor Lanyon and the Mysterious Village
Format: DS
Release date: Out Now (US)
Rating: ****
Details: This looks like a great puzzle/adventure which I will likely purchase. However, I may wait until the UK release.
Game: No More Heroes
Format: Wii
Release date: 14/03/08
Rating: ***
Details: This looks like an unusual and fund game from the makers of Killer 7 for the Wii. Unfortunately the UK release has been gimped slightly when compared to the US release, taking out much of the violence. Also, I doubt that I’ll have time to play it, as such, I don’t think I’ll get around to getting it.
Game: Fire Emblem
Format: Wii
Release date: 14/03/08
Rating: ***
Details: I really, really want to play a Fire Emblem game. From the makers of Advance Wars, this comes across as a medieval strategy game. Unfortunately with so many other games due out, this may need to slip off my list for the time being, until I have more time.
Game: Gran Turismo 4: Prologue
Format: PS3
Release date: 28/03/08
Rating: ***
Details: I may skip this, as in reality it is little more than an extended demo. Although the though of online racing is tempting, I think I’ll likely wait until the full version in a year or so. Besides for racing I have:
Game: Mario Kart Wii
Format: Wii
Release date: 11/04/08
Rating: *****
Details: If I had to choose one game only to play in 2008, this would be it. I have always loved the Mario Kart Series and I’m sure that this will not change. I’m not too sure that I’ll like the Wiiwheel control scheme, but at least you have the option of using the nunchuck, or even a Gamecube controller.
Game: Wii Fit
Format: Wii
Release date: 25/04/08
Rating: ****
Details: When this was first announced at E3 last year, I must admit that I had little interest in it. However, after identifying the my blood pressure hasn’t been too great of late, the idea of a game which in turn will also help with my health is now very appealing. I think that Nintendo are likely onto a winner with this one, and I’m looking forward to this.
Game: Super Smash Bros Brawl
Format: Wii
Release date: Q2/3 08
Rating: ****
Details: I may not be as big a fan of the series as other people on the internet (who seem to literally worship the games), there is no denying that they are great fun. The opportunity to play online is also a big draw, plus it’s Nintendo, therefore this almost automatically makes it an immediate purchase.
Game: Okami
Format: Wii
Release date: Q2/3 08
Rating: ***
Details: I very nearly bought this for the PS2 so many time, after all what is there not to like, it is after all very similar to Zelda gameplay wise, but with a striking Japanese graphical style. Thankfully, this is now being ported to the Wii, which should suit the game down to the ground considering that a large portion of this is controlled by brush strokes. Also the 480p widescreen resolution on the Wii version only makes a beautiful game even more beautiful!
Game: Grand Theft Auto 4
Format: PS3
Release date: 29/04/08
Rating: *****
Details: I have some concerns that this may end up being a bad port of the 360 version and also that it may not have evolved enough from the previous GTA games, but to be frank, this is still on of my must haves for the year.
Game: Rock Band
Format: PS3
Release date: Q2/3 08
Rating: *****
Details: Oh you lucky, lucky American’s, getting this November 2007, when us European’s have to wait forever to get our hands on it. After playing Guitar Hero down a friends almost every Monday nigh for month, I’m definitely all set for the release of this.
Game: Metal Gear Solid 4
Format: PS3
Release date: 12/06/08
Rating: *****
Details: This is likely the biggest game out on the PS3 in 2008. I am a big fan of the series and this looks likely to be the best yet. I think it’s quite likely that PS3’s will jump off the shelves once this is released.
Game: Disgaea 3
Format: PS3
Release date: August 08 (US)
Rating: *****
Details: I remember once commenting about Disgaea on the PS2 that it is a fantastic game, but that the graphics weren’t that much better than a PS1, well now the seconds sequel is due on the PS3 and still the graphics don’t look any better than a PS1. Does it matter, not a jot. When it comes to SRPG’s this is king. It is rare to find a game which is so involving, so bizarre and so funny. Oh yes, this is a must buy (and probably import).
Game: Little Big Planet
Format: PS3
Release date: September 08
Rating: ****
Details: This looks both quirky and interesting. It looks relatively simple to design your own levels and genuinely fun to play. Another big seller for the PS3.
Game: Killzone 2
Format: PS3
Release date: November 08
Rating: ***
Details: Purely on a graphical standpoint, this game is looking stunning. I played the first game briefly and thought it was good, but not spectacular. Killzone 2 on the other hand looks like it could be a stunner. There is, however, a vague possibility that it may be overshadowed by Resistance 2.
Game: Resistance 2
Format: PS3
Release date: November 08
Rating: ****
Details: Whilst the single player game on Resistance was good, it wasn’t great, multiplayer however was a blast. Resistance 2 looks like it takes that multiplayer game and runs with it. This could quite easily top COD4 on the PS3 online front for me.
Game: Fire Emblem (DS)
Format: DS
Release date: Q4 08
Rating: ***
Details: I may end up getting the handheld Fire Emblem (when it’s eventually released) instead of the Wii version. Games like Advance Wars are great to play on the fly, and as such Fire Emblem would go down a storm.
Game: Final Fantasy 4
Format: DS
Release date: Q4 08
Rating: ****
Details: Looks very much like a similar update that Final Fantasy 3 was, which I enjoyed immensely. As such, and also bearing in mind that it is Final Fantasy, I will likely get.
Game: Final Fantasy Tactics: A2
Format: DS
Release date: Q4 08
Rating: *****
Details: Final Fantasy Tactics Advance and Advance Wars were the most played games on my GBA of old, as such this immediately becomes my most anticipated game due on the DS. I could quite easily lose hours on this game without even noticing.
Game: Street Fighter 4
Format: PS3
Release date: Q4 08
Rating: ****
Details: I still maintain that Street Fighter 2 is the best fighting game out there and 4 looks like it is returning to it’s roots and as such, I’m interested.
Game: Soul Calibur 4
Format: PS3
Release date: Q4 08
Rating: ****
Details: I have really enjoyed Soul Blade, Soul Calibur and Soul Calibur 2 (never got around to getting 3), and as such, this new iteration is another likely purchase for me.
So as you can see, there are a fair few games due out on the systems that I own in 2008. There are of course other big games due, such as Resident Evil 5 and Final Fantasy 13, but I do not think that these will be released in 2008, these are more likely 2009 releases. In addition to this there are also games due out on the PSN and Wiiware which I am interested in.
Well, it’s going to be a busy year, that’s for sure.
I am not someone who can have too many games going at the same time, instead I tend to focus on one or two particular games at a time (although saying that, I just realised that I’m currently playing through the following: Half Life 2 (PS3), Super Mario Galaxy (Wii), COD4 (online PS3), Final Fantasy: Revenant Wings and Advance Wars: Days of Ruin). As such, from the list of games that I would like, I’m sure that there will be some that I don’t have time to get and play.
As such, I thought I’d do my own little preview of the games due out which I’m interested in and assign some sort of anticipation rating to them.
Ratings key:
*** Would like to play, but may have to skip if released next to another game.
**** Really looking forward to
***** Must play, my life depends on it!
Game: Ace Attorney: Apollo Justice
Format: DS
Release date: Out Now (US)
Rating: *****
Details: I have loved the previous games in the series and look forward to this immensely. I have actually just recently ordered this on import and should receive it in a week or two.
Game: Professor Lanyon and the Mysterious Village
Format: DS
Release date: Out Now (US)
Rating: ****
Details: This looks like a great puzzle/adventure which I will likely purchase. However, I may wait until the UK release.
Game: No More Heroes
Format: Wii
Release date: 14/03/08
Rating: ***
Details: This looks like an unusual and fund game from the makers of Killer 7 for the Wii. Unfortunately the UK release has been gimped slightly when compared to the US release, taking out much of the violence. Also, I doubt that I’ll have time to play it, as such, I don’t think I’ll get around to getting it.
Game: Fire Emblem
Format: Wii
Release date: 14/03/08
Rating: ***
Details: I really, really want to play a Fire Emblem game. From the makers of Advance Wars, this comes across as a medieval strategy game. Unfortunately with so many other games due out, this may need to slip off my list for the time being, until I have more time.
Game: Gran Turismo 4: Prologue
Format: PS3
Release date: 28/03/08
Rating: ***
Details: I may skip this, as in reality it is little more than an extended demo. Although the though of online racing is tempting, I think I’ll likely wait until the full version in a year or so. Besides for racing I have:
Game: Mario Kart Wii
Format: Wii
Release date: 11/04/08
Rating: *****
Details: If I had to choose one game only to play in 2008, this would be it. I have always loved the Mario Kart Series and I’m sure that this will not change. I’m not too sure that I’ll like the Wiiwheel control scheme, but at least you have the option of using the nunchuck, or even a Gamecube controller.
Game: Wii Fit
Format: Wii
Release date: 25/04/08
Rating: ****
Details: When this was first announced at E3 last year, I must admit that I had little interest in it. However, after identifying the my blood pressure hasn’t been too great of late, the idea of a game which in turn will also help with my health is now very appealing. I think that Nintendo are likely onto a winner with this one, and I’m looking forward to this.
Game: Super Smash Bros Brawl
Format: Wii
Release date: Q2/3 08
Rating: ****
Details: I may not be as big a fan of the series as other people on the internet (who seem to literally worship the games), there is no denying that they are great fun. The opportunity to play online is also a big draw, plus it’s Nintendo, therefore this almost automatically makes it an immediate purchase.
Game: Okami
Format: Wii
Release date: Q2/3 08
Rating: ***
Details: I very nearly bought this for the PS2 so many time, after all what is there not to like, it is after all very similar to Zelda gameplay wise, but with a striking Japanese graphical style. Thankfully, this is now being ported to the Wii, which should suit the game down to the ground considering that a large portion of this is controlled by brush strokes. Also the 480p widescreen resolution on the Wii version only makes a beautiful game even more beautiful!
Game: Grand Theft Auto 4
Format: PS3
Release date: 29/04/08
Rating: *****
Details: I have some concerns that this may end up being a bad port of the 360 version and also that it may not have evolved enough from the previous GTA games, but to be frank, this is still on of my must haves for the year.
Game: Rock Band
Format: PS3
Release date: Q2/3 08
Rating: *****
Details: Oh you lucky, lucky American’s, getting this November 2007, when us European’s have to wait forever to get our hands on it. After playing Guitar Hero down a friends almost every Monday nigh for month, I’m definitely all set for the release of this.
Game: Metal Gear Solid 4
Format: PS3
Release date: 12/06/08
Rating: *****
Details: This is likely the biggest game out on the PS3 in 2008. I am a big fan of the series and this looks likely to be the best yet. I think it’s quite likely that PS3’s will jump off the shelves once this is released.
Game: Disgaea 3
Format: PS3
Release date: August 08 (US)
Rating: *****
Details: I remember once commenting about Disgaea on the PS2 that it is a fantastic game, but that the graphics weren’t that much better than a PS1, well now the seconds sequel is due on the PS3 and still the graphics don’t look any better than a PS1. Does it matter, not a jot. When it comes to SRPG’s this is king. It is rare to find a game which is so involving, so bizarre and so funny. Oh yes, this is a must buy (and probably import).
Game: Little Big Planet
Format: PS3
Release date: September 08
Rating: ****
Details: This looks both quirky and interesting. It looks relatively simple to design your own levels and genuinely fun to play. Another big seller for the PS3.
Game: Killzone 2
Format: PS3
Release date: November 08
Rating: ***
Details: Purely on a graphical standpoint, this game is looking stunning. I played the first game briefly and thought it was good, but not spectacular. Killzone 2 on the other hand looks like it could be a stunner. There is, however, a vague possibility that it may be overshadowed by Resistance 2.
Game: Resistance 2
Format: PS3
Release date: November 08
Rating: ****
Details: Whilst the single player game on Resistance was good, it wasn’t great, multiplayer however was a blast. Resistance 2 looks like it takes that multiplayer game and runs with it. This could quite easily top COD4 on the PS3 online front for me.
Game: Fire Emblem (DS)
Format: DS
Release date: Q4 08
Rating: ***
Details: I may end up getting the handheld Fire Emblem (when it’s eventually released) instead of the Wii version. Games like Advance Wars are great to play on the fly, and as such Fire Emblem would go down a storm.
Game: Final Fantasy 4
Format: DS
Release date: Q4 08
Rating: ****
Details: Looks very much like a similar update that Final Fantasy 3 was, which I enjoyed immensely. As such, and also bearing in mind that it is Final Fantasy, I will likely get.
Game: Final Fantasy Tactics: A2
Format: DS
Release date: Q4 08
Rating: *****
Details: Final Fantasy Tactics Advance and Advance Wars were the most played games on my GBA of old, as such this immediately becomes my most anticipated game due on the DS. I could quite easily lose hours on this game without even noticing.
Game: Street Fighter 4
Format: PS3
Release date: Q4 08
Rating: ****
Details: I still maintain that Street Fighter 2 is the best fighting game out there and 4 looks like it is returning to it’s roots and as such, I’m interested.
Game: Soul Calibur 4
Format: PS3
Release date: Q4 08
Rating: ****
Details: I have really enjoyed Soul Blade, Soul Calibur and Soul Calibur 2 (never got around to getting 3), and as such, this new iteration is another likely purchase for me.
So as you can see, there are a fair few games due out on the systems that I own in 2008. There are of course other big games due, such as Resident Evil 5 and Final Fantasy 13, but I do not think that these will be released in 2008, these are more likely 2009 releases. In addition to this there are also games due out on the PSN and Wiiware which I am interested in.
Well, it’s going to be a busy year, that’s for sure.
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