The E3 Expo quickly lived up to all the hype that surrounds this yearly event. Microsoft’s Project Natal officially died and was reborn as Kinect, a device that uses motion capture technology to literally put the player into the game. Using this technology, a player has to simply move their hands, lean side to side, or jump to have their actions reflected in game.  

Sony was not to be left behind, as they also strode into the field of motion technology with a set of wands that are very reminiscent of the Nintendo Wii. It is clear there will not be a lack of games using motion capture technology. Ubisoft has many games in the works that will take advantage of this technology. Child of Eden puts a player in a music-driven world of colorful cube creations where they will fly around on a fixed path while trying to destroy an odd assortment of enemies. Ubisoft’s most ambitious title focused on complex choreography, in Michael Jackson, players will be eased into the complex and amazing moves of the late king of pop.

Ubisoft did not just focus on motion capture technology. Many of their well-known series have made a return. Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood takes a player on a trip of revenge through the streets of Rome against an aggressive AI, and as a result the player will be able to choose from a host of assassins instead of just the one.  

Shaun White Skateboarding takes the player into a grey world and charges them with breathing life into the city and allows them to manipulate many objects in order to create a truly unique world. Step into the future of war with Ghost Recon Future Soldier where an expert use of stealth camo and a well coordinated strike will win the day. Take the wheel and traverse the streets of San Francisco while pursuing a dangerous criminal, throw in a bit of psychic mind–swapping for a bit of fun, and you have Driver San Francisco. Make history with Raving Rabbids Travel in Time, and take a step into the past of Ubisoft with Rayman Origins.

As much as Microsoft and Sony wanted their technology to be the big acts of the show and Microsoft really did, going as far as giving away a free Xbox 360 Slim to everyone who attended their press conference, none of them could stand up to the might of Nintendo. Nintendo’s press conference kicked off with an insight into the much anticipated release of a new Zelda game titled The Legend of Zelda Skyward Sword.  Scheduled for release next year, a player will hold sword and shield in hand while physically slashing and blocking through a wonderfully created world. The use of the Wii Motion Plus causes this game to have a very natural feel that will provide a new experience to fans of the series.

Many old favorites are scheduled for an appearance in the near future. Mario will once again venture into the wide world of sports with Mario Sports Mix. Kirby makes a return as a creature made out of yarn in Kirby’s Epic Yarn. Travel to alien worlds in Metroid the Other M, and return to the jungle with Donkey Kong Country Return. Mickey Mouse will take players through a world of forgotten Disney characters and attractions in Disney Epic Mickey, but there will be much to do because many of the people and locations need help to be restored to their former glory. Relive the glory days of the Nintendo 64 with Goldeneye 007 a re–mastered version of the original classic which features modern graphics, rethought stages, and split–screen multiplayer mayhem.

The biggest announcement of the show was a detailed look at the Nintendo 3DS. This is the first handheld system, in fact the first system, to allow a player to play games in 3D without needing to wear glasses. The system features a 3D slider that allows a player to choose the level of their 3D experience. It also features a motion sensor, a gyro sensor, a slide pad, and a 3D camera. That’s right, for the first time a player will be able to use their system to take 3D pictures. The system will also be able to support movies in 3D.  

There will not be a lack of 3D games; Kid Icarus Uprising was worked on since January of 2009 with the intention of specifically being created for the Nintendo 3DS. Other 3D titles will include Nintendogs & Cats, a Resident Evil title, a Metal Gear Solid title, and games developed by more than 21 different companies.

The interest in the Nintendo 3DS was so great that many people would overlook other demos, such as the Legend of Zelda Skyward Sword, Donkey Kong Country Return, and many others, in order to stand in line for more than two hours just to get a look at the system. The line quickly outgrew the confines that Nintendo had originally planned for, and eventually snaked through the entire Nintendo section.

Day two of the E3 Expo provided a large amount of excitement for everyone who attended. Unlike day 1, which was filled with larger press conferences, the events of day 2 were dominated by hands-on demos and exhibits by third-party developers. Many of these companies devote a relatively large amount of resources to a few well-developed titles. As a result, many of these titles can be rather quirky and offer a level of fun for someone who is willing to break away from the videogame name.

Take for example a company called Netherrealm Studios. Never heard of them? Well, I am not surprised. They are a division of Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, and the studio is lead by Ed Boon, a former head of Midway Games. In 2011, they will release a new chapter in an old and genre-defining series. Mortal Kombat will make a triumphant, and bloody, return on the Xbox 360 and PS3. The game will take place on a 2D plane and feature many of the fun things which were staples in the original games, such as “friendships,” “babalities,” and fatalities.

Slang and Konami are bringing up a new contender to stand against the long dominating WWE series. AAA Lucha Libre Heroes del Ring, scheduled for an Aug. 10 release, will try to hit the wrestling genre like a chair to the back of the head. The game is fast paced and features 30 real–life luchadores competing in actual wrestling venues. The custom character creator is deep and devotes as much time toward designing a mask as some games devote towards designing a character.

XSEED will be releasing a heartwarming and unique game developed by one of the creators of the original Sonic the Hedgehog. Ivy the Kiwi will be released for the Nintendo Wii and the DS, and the story will follow a small newborn kiwi in search of its mother. Ivy was unable to break out of its shell and must run along through 100 different stages in order to find its mother. The player will not be able to directly control Ivy but will be able to draw and manipulate vines in order to direct and launch Ivy through the stage. With the help of vines and boulders Ivy will be able to defeat enemies, avoid spikes, and break blocks all in an attempt to reach its mother.

One of the more twisted titles shown at E3 was a product of 505 Games. Naughty Bear puts the player in the shoes of a giant stuffed teddy bear on an island called Perfection.
Naughty Bear would prefer to live a nice quiet life by himself, but all of the other bears do not like Naughty Bear and constantly try to do bad things to him. So, Naughty Bear feels that it is his place to do naughty things to those who want to do bad things to him.
Although it may be fun to kill those who would want to kill you, it is advantageous not to kill any living thing. In order to accumulate the most points it is advantageous to scare the living daylights out of the bears while there are witnesses to your acts. If a bear is pushed too far, then it will do itself in, freaking out everyone who witnessed the act.

For example, I watch Naughty Bear scare the mayor, who was leading a campaign to kill Naughty Bear, so badly that he put a gun in his mouth and blew his brains out all over the wall. This happened just as one of the mayor’s aids was entering the room, and this freaked him out just long enough for Naughty Bear to crush his head by slamming it in the doorway. Check back in August for a full review.

Day 3 of the E3 Expo gave me time to reflect on all of the amazing things that have happened during this year’s show: celebrity appearances, free stuff, and of course amazing games. Many celebrities chose to attend this year’s expo either on behalf of a company or just for the fun of it. People like John Daly, Method Man, Red Man, the Miz, Bear Grylls, and Ted DiBiase, the Million Dollar Man made appearances for a wide array of companies. Perhaps, the most distinguished celebrity was Leonard Nimoy, Spock himself. Lucky members of the press were able to sing karaoke alongside the famous star of the original Star Trek series.

Most people who tell me they wish to attend the E3 Expo say they want to see many of their favorite companies, but always the main topic they end up on is all the free stuff they want to get. Most companies that give away items distribute small trinkets to anyone who will take the time to listen to a presentation, play a demo or just walk by. These trinkets mainly consisted of cards, buttons, pens, key chains, postcards, tote bags, and shirts, all of which were designed to try and implant the company or product in the minds of the attendees.  

However, several companies were able to stand apart from the rest. Nintendo came through with a multitude of amazing swag. Their products included Kirby patches, Pokémon cell art, and Link t–shirts. Slang had one of the more interesting giveaways; luchadore masks promoting AAA Lucha Libre Heroes del Ring. One of my personal favorites were the little stuffed horses that Natsume gave away to promote Harvest Moon Grand Bazaar.

Even on the last day there were a number of titles that showed great promise. John Daly’s ProStroke Golf, to be released by O–Games, is perhaps the closest thing to playing golf aside from actually playing golf. Using the PlayStation’s new Move Controller, a player is able to actually control all possible movements of a golf club, just as if they were actually holding one. I watched someone drive their ball off the green with a putter because they put too much swing into their club. The realistic golf physics could provide a headache for someone who does not know how to golf, but it is perfect for someone who wants to work on their golf form, when you can’t get out onto the course, or if you are too embarrassed to go golfing. Look for it in stores this fall.

The world of internet gaming is about to be thrust into a devastating “NetWar.” This summer, UTV Ignition is going to deliver Blacklight Tango Down for the Xbox 360, PS3, and the PC which will result in an all out chaotic battle on the internet. Players will be able to choose from a set of cooperative missions which support up to four players, or a multiplayer melee of up to 16 people. This amazingly beautiful first–person shooter offers 12 multiplayer maps, 7 multiplayer game modes, and an insane level of customization. Players will be able to change the look of their armor and modify the look and feel of their weapons in order to change how they shoot. This game will be the first in a Blacklight world which will also feature a comic book series and a movie. Look for it this summer, available exclusively through the internet for $15.

This brings us to our last game, which was referenced earlier in the article. Valve will lure you back into the Aperture Science facility with promises of delicious cake and the guarantee that they will no longer lie to you or try to incinerate you, and who knows you might even see your old friend the weighted companion cube, who you killed faster than any other test subject. Portal 2 will offer a wide array of new technology to challenge the player’s mind in ways never before imagined. Look for it next year on the PC, Xbox 360, and PS3.

As I sit here in LAX, I am reminded of how great this year was. The games, the pageantry, and even the free stuff made for a truly memorable event. The chaos that I left behind in downtown Los Angeles will surely be featured on the news, because despite the outcome of game 7 of the NBA finals a riot will be inevitable. Even here in the airport hundreds of people are crowding around my general area as the final minute ticks down. This makes me long to escape this place in the hope that I will one day return to the E3 Expo.

There is something for everyone at E3 and remember, with all games if you play them just to have fun there will never be a bad game.

EARTHBOUND

Game of the Month:
Earthbound
Developer: Ape Studios
ESRB: Everyone
Release Date: 6/5/1995
System and Price: Super Ninntendo Entertainment Systeym
Rating:
Graphics: 4 out of 4
Game Play: 4 out of 4
Personal: 2 out of 2
Total Score: 10 out of 10

Classic Consideration:
Triple Play ’97
Developer: EA Sports
ESRB: Kids–Adults
Release Date: 7/31/1996
System: Playstation 2
Rating: 8 out of 10

Five to consider:
1. Super Street Fighter IV; Xbox 360/PS3; Teen; $39.99
2. Harvest Moon: Hero of Leaf Valley; PSP; Everyone; $29.99
3. Free Running; Wii; Teen; $19.99
4. Record of Agarest War; Xbox 360; Teen; $59.99
5. Nier; Xbox 360/PS3; Mature; $59.99

A young boy sleeps soundly in his bed while dreaming many wonderful dreams. That is, until a loud sound awakens the boy to a chorus of police sirens. Perplexed, the boy travels out into the night in order to investigate the commotion. Unbeknownst to him, these are the first steps of a strange journey which will lead him and his friends, who have yet to be made, all around the world.

As the boy journeys into the night he encounters the world famous Onett police force doing what it does best, setting up roadblocks. Unable to advance any further, he questions the officers, only to learn that a meteorite has struck the hill behind town. After a short stay at home, there is a distinct and annoying knock on the door and our hero answers it only to see the fat neighbor kid.  Apparently his little brother has gone missing and he has come to enlist the help of our hero and his mighty dog.

May 2010: Sakura Wars: So Long My Love

By James Page

New York City in the 1920s was a city bustling with all sorts of excitement. In reality not much was different from the New York of today. There is great food, exciting music and entertaining shows. When visiting one should try and take in as many of the sights and sounds as possible while at the same time not to be overwhelmed by the enormous buildings, many automobiles and the plethora of different people.

One thing that would continuously interrupt the lives New York City residents in the 1920s were the numerous attacks on the city by gigantic steam-powered robots. Thankfully the New York Combat Revue is always ready to take the stage and draw the curtain on those who would dare threaten the city’s freedom. Piloting their own steam-powered mechs, these individuals quickly put a beautiful end to any threat on land or from the sky. Their actions help to make it possible for the citizens of New York City to continue to enjoy life and everything which it offers.

By James Page     This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Game of the Month: Lunar: Sliver Star Harmony

Developer: Games Arts

ESRB: Teen

Release Date: 3/2/2010

System and Price: PSP; $29.99

Rating:

Graphics: 3.5 out of 4

Game Play: 3.5 out of 4

Personal: 2 out of 2

Total Score: 9 out of 10

Classic Consideration: Xenosaga: Episode I: Der Wille zur Macht

Developer: Monolith Soft

ESRB: Teen

Release Date: 2/26/2003

System: Playstation 2

Rating: 8 out of 10

Five Games to Consider:

1. Final Fantasy XIII; Xbox 360/PS3; Teen; $59.99

2. Battlefield Bad Company 2; Xbox 360/PS3/PC; Mature; $59.99

3. Pokemon Soulsilver and Heartgold; Nintendo DS; Everyone; $39.99

4. Infinite Space; Nintendo DS; Teen; $34.99

5. Sakura Wars: So Long My Love; Wii/PS2; Teen; $39.99

April 2010: Lunar: Silver Star Harmony

Player’s Page: Lunar: Silver Star Harmony

The winds rustle as a lone figure stands by the solitary tree which shades the monument to a fallen hero. The hero was a Dragonmaster, the loyal protector of the goddess Althena, who fell in the line of his duty. Many years have passed since that dark day and now a young boy by the name of Alex stands ready to try and become the next Dragonmaster. Before he sets off on a journey of adventure he gazes skyward towards the ever-present blue star and can only imagine the things that are ahead.

However, one cannot spend all day being lazy; there are things to do and people are waiting. One of those people is a girl by the name of Luna. She was taken in as a baby by Alex’s family and the two have been like brother and sister ever since. Luna has always had an amazing singing voice, and she has become known as the songstress of Burg. Unfortunately for Alex one of the things that he has forgotten to do is to help Luna to practice for an upcoming festival. With a reminder from his friend Nall, Alex rushes off quickly in the direction of Luna.

Along the way Alex is stopped by a round young lad by the name of Ramus. He is the son of the village elder and always has his eyes set on one payday or another. As a result he often tries to swindle villages out of money; and has gotten a rather bad reputation. His latest get-rich-quick scheme involves sneaking into the dangerous White Dragon Cave and retrieving a legendary dragon diamond. He enlists Alex’s help to accompany him on this dangerous adventure, but only after Alex keeps his appointment with Luna.

Luna decides to accompany them on their adventure, and the three kids start out on what seems to be a rather small journey. However, this is but the first step on a journey which will take them all over the world. Along the way they will meet wizards, priestesses, drunkards, wanderers, heroes, dragons, inventors, and a wide array of others colorful characters. There will be hardships and betrayals which will test the friendships and strength of character which will be built along the way. Before the end of the journey the heroes will have the chance to fulfill dreams, save the world, and build happy lives for everyone.

Lunar: Silver Star Harmony is actually the fourth incarnation of the SEGA CD game Lunar: The Silver Star. The original was released some 17 years ago, and although similar was quite different from the current version. This version actually combines the general story layout of the 1999 Playstation release, Lunar: Silver Star Story Complete and the game play style of the 2002 Game Boy Advance release, Lunar Legend. These elements combine to make another unique contribution to the history of this grand game.

The general style of this game is that of a turn-based role-playing game. The characters are not locked into place during battle and must move around in order to attack an enemy. This helps to create a fluid motion to the combat, and seems to help the battles move at a steady pace. A player is able to launch a physical attack, a magical attack, or build up a meter and launch an amazing special arts technique.

The dungeons are fairly straightforward and do not pose a challenge to navigate through, but at times the abundance of enemies make up for this lacking. The enemies stay at a constant level throughout the game, but the bosses level up along with the player. This requires the player to take strategy into account when fighting against these challenging opponents. However, due to certain abilities, a well-rounded player would be able to slaughter most of the average enemies.

Lunar: Silver Star Harmony is a great game that brings back fond memories of days gone by. It offers a nice challenge but is not so challenging that the game no longer becomes fun. The game stays true to its classic roots while traveling into some newer game play territory. The heartwarming story and memorable characters will make this game a pleasurable story to all who sit down and devote a portion of their free time to this little game.

Remember, like all games if you play them just to have fun there will never be a bad game.