One of my favorite PlayStation franchises is Hot Shots Golf, known in Japan as Minna no Golf and in PAL territories as Everybody's Golf. This new Minna no Golf trailer from Tokyo Game Show has me absolutely excited beyond belief. Yet another reason to pick up a PlayStation 4 in the near future!
Showing posts with label hot shots golf. Show all posts
Showing posts with label hot shots golf. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 15, 2015
Friday, March 15, 2013
Top Ten PlayStation Franchises
While Nintendo's first party studios are held to an almost impossible standard, Sony does not get enough credit for their own first party studios. They're quite awesome, too. Sony's stable of series have significantly improved over the past generation, offering content that you cannot find anywhere else but PlayStation. This top ten list features what I consider to be the ten best Sony franchises. You will most likely disagree with the order, but I hope we can all agree that these ten series deserve to be on this list. From Kratos to Nathan Drake, Jak and Daxter to Ratchet & Clank, and Wipeout to Gran Turismo, PlayStation fans have had an embarrassment of riches in the form of these franchises.
10) Jak and Daxter
Before developer Naughty Dog was telling the tales of Nathan Drake and the last human survivors in a metropolitan setting, they worked on various mascot platformers. We are almost all familiar with Crash Bandicoot, but Naughty Dog also worked on Jak and Daxter. The original Jak and Daxter was no doubt modeled after so-called collect-a-thon platformers such as Super Mario 64 and Banjo-Kazooie, but it still had its own identity. The sequel brought with it a new Jak with a new, more "mature" attitude (a small but infamous episode in PlayStation history). While the game was a drastic departure from what made the original J&D so great, Jak II and its subsequent sequels still their own level of fun.
9) Killzone
With the success of Halo on the Xbox, Sony desired their own first-person shooter series that would be exclusive to the PlayStation. Thus, the birth of Killzone occurred. The first Killzone appeared on the PlayStation 2, and it was riddled with problems. However, Sony took the series to the PlayStation 3 and offered a jaw-dropping E3 trailer of a build of the sequel, Killzone 2. Unfortunately, that build was not representative of the final game at all. That said, Killzone presents players with a fantastic amount of shooting gameplay that PlayStation owners seemingly cannot get enough of. If you don't believe me, look at the hype for the Vita's Killzone: Mercenary and the PlayStation 4's Killzone: Shadow Fall. See what I mean, now?
8) Sly Cooper
The PlayStation 2 was the birthplace of three new 3D platforming franchises. I've covered the first with Jak and Daxter, and the second is Sucker Punch's Sly Cooper. Sly is a master thief who uses his virtuoso stealing abilities to reclaim the lost pages of his ancestry's fabled book. This crafty raccoon has a wide range of platforming skills: sneaking across edges, climbing up poles, tip-toeing across power lines, and so much more. Though there are only four games in the franchise, each one has its own personality which makes for a platforming brand that is tremendous fun. Just try out the first game in the series, Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus to see what the admiration is all about.
7) Wipeout
Though it does not reach F-Zero levels, Wipeout is still a fantastic futuristic racer that pits players to duke it out across tracks that twist, turn, fork, and spin. Which way is up? Which way is down? Did I remember to go to the bathroom before the race? I don't know the answer to any of these questions! Unlike F-Zero, however, Wipeout sports weapon combat, online play, and most recently, gorgeous high-definition visuals. It's a futuristic racing franchise that PlayStation fans can call their own, and it is surely a marvelous one. I just hope you don't suffer from motion sickness...
6) Hot Shots
The Hot Shots series is one that is the pinnacle of golf games. It is one that beginners to absolute experts and everyone in between can enjoy. Each game has its own set of colorful courses, a kooky cast of characters, superb visuals, and sim-like nature to it that makes for that must-play got-to-do-one-more-course feeling in players. Whether it's online tournaments, beating the CPU in a match play round, or getting that ever-elusive course record the Hot Shots series is a great time on the links. Hot Shots as a series has even expanded to tennis, offering the same arcade feeling with that ever addicting gameplay. It is for these reasons that the Hot Shots franchise makes this list.
5) Gran Turismo
The ultimate driving simulator, Gran Turismo is one of Sony's most heralded series. Yes, it isn't very newbie-friendly, but once players have come to terms with the ins and outs of each game possesses, they will find an immensely rewarding franchise. Gran Turismo allows car, driving, and racing enthusiasts alike to get behind the wheel of their favorite wheeled beasts and take their machines to the most exotic racing locations the world has ever seen. It's this dream turned virtual reality and the myriad amounts of detail and nuances that make the Gran Turismo series so loved. That is why it is number five on this list.
4) Uncharted
Protagonist Nathan Drake is marketed as an everyman character, but I don't know many everymen who have kill counts that stretch in the hundreds (beating out a lot of serial killers, mind you), superhero levels of upper body strength, and most importantly, almost always sporting a half tuck. Regardless, Drake's a likable fellow, and the series he represents, Uncharted, is essentially one part interactive Indiana Jones and one part Tomb Raider. Both parts equal some wonderful treasure hunting, platforming, and cover-based shooting with some sensational set pieces thrown in for good measure. The stories are always written in a magnificent manner, and above all, the Uncharted series consistently delivers excellence.
3) LittleBigPlanet
I love customization in games, and LittleBigPlanet is the beacon of that. Though some criticize Sackboy's floaty jumps, I look past that and still enjoy the platforming. What I love most, however, is the ability to create anything and everything. Basically anything you see in the games' campaigns can be made in LittleBigPlanet's highly intricate level creators. Make objects, make enemies, make whatever you want. You don't even have to make a platformer, for goodness sake. The level of what you can craft with LittleBigPlanet's tools is nothing short of amazing, and I have lost many night's sleep tinkering and tailoring custom designs to share with the community at large. LittleBigPlanet as a series is truly something special.
2) Ratchet & Clank
While Ratchet & Clank have seen much better days (a duo of relative stinker entries in the franchise known as All 4 One and Full Frontal Assault/Q-Force soil the series a little), the good far outweighs the bad with the Ratchet & Clank franchise. The fun of upgrading powerful and highly creative weaponry through repeated use, following along the off-the-wall intergalactic journeys of our protagonists, laughing at all the humorous jokes the series has to offer, and enjoying the terrific combo of action and platforming makes for a platforming series that is one of this writer's favorites. Here's hoping Ratchet & Clank's future games are more similar to their original adventures and less of something in the failed experiment category.
1) God of War
God of War: Ascension is the latest entry in the series that essentially started its own copious amount of imitators. While many have tried to take the crown, none of have usurped the king, God of War. And sitting on top of all of the corpses who wanted his crown is Kratos, the anti-hero protagonist of the series. There really is no bad game in the series, and that is pretty impressive seeing how many entries in the franchise there are. Although there have been small alterations made to each game, the design is pretty much still the same, which turns off some players. However, when you have something that really works well, why risk ruining it? Some also say the series is only popular because of its ultra-violence. I find the series to be full of brilliant games that just happen to be ultra-violent. Regardless, God of War as a brand continues to kick butt, take names, and be at the top of the heap when it comes to action games.
There ends the week here at SuperPhillip Central. Stay tuned next week for even more content. Until then, what PlayStation series are your favorites? Let the world know in the comments below.
10) Jak and Daxter
Before developer Naughty Dog was telling the tales of Nathan Drake and the last human survivors in a metropolitan setting, they worked on various mascot platformers. We are almost all familiar with Crash Bandicoot, but Naughty Dog also worked on Jak and Daxter. The original Jak and Daxter was no doubt modeled after so-called collect-a-thon platformers such as Super Mario 64 and Banjo-Kazooie, but it still had its own identity. The sequel brought with it a new Jak with a new, more "mature" attitude (a small but infamous episode in PlayStation history). While the game was a drastic departure from what made the original J&D so great, Jak II and its subsequent sequels still their own level of fun.
9) Killzone
With the success of Halo on the Xbox, Sony desired their own first-person shooter series that would be exclusive to the PlayStation. Thus, the birth of Killzone occurred. The first Killzone appeared on the PlayStation 2, and it was riddled with problems. However, Sony took the series to the PlayStation 3 and offered a jaw-dropping E3 trailer of a build of the sequel, Killzone 2. Unfortunately, that build was not representative of the final game at all. That said, Killzone presents players with a fantastic amount of shooting gameplay that PlayStation owners seemingly cannot get enough of. If you don't believe me, look at the hype for the Vita's Killzone: Mercenary and the PlayStation 4's Killzone: Shadow Fall. See what I mean, now?
8) Sly Cooper
The PlayStation 2 was the birthplace of three new 3D platforming franchises. I've covered the first with Jak and Daxter, and the second is Sucker Punch's Sly Cooper. Sly is a master thief who uses his virtuoso stealing abilities to reclaim the lost pages of his ancestry's fabled book. This crafty raccoon has a wide range of platforming skills: sneaking across edges, climbing up poles, tip-toeing across power lines, and so much more. Though there are only four games in the franchise, each one has its own personality which makes for a platforming brand that is tremendous fun. Just try out the first game in the series, Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus to see what the admiration is all about.
7) Wipeout
Though it does not reach F-Zero levels, Wipeout is still a fantastic futuristic racer that pits players to duke it out across tracks that twist, turn, fork, and spin. Which way is up? Which way is down? Did I remember to go to the bathroom before the race? I don't know the answer to any of these questions! Unlike F-Zero, however, Wipeout sports weapon combat, online play, and most recently, gorgeous high-definition visuals. It's a futuristic racing franchise that PlayStation fans can call their own, and it is surely a marvelous one. I just hope you don't suffer from motion sickness...
6) Hot Shots
5) Gran Turismo
4) Uncharted
Protagonist Nathan Drake is marketed as an everyman character, but I don't know many everymen who have kill counts that stretch in the hundreds (beating out a lot of serial killers, mind you), superhero levels of upper body strength, and most importantly, almost always sporting a half tuck. Regardless, Drake's a likable fellow, and the series he represents, Uncharted, is essentially one part interactive Indiana Jones and one part Tomb Raider. Both parts equal some wonderful treasure hunting, platforming, and cover-based shooting with some sensational set pieces thrown in for good measure. The stories are always written in a magnificent manner, and above all, the Uncharted series consistently delivers excellence.
3) LittleBigPlanet
I love customization in games, and LittleBigPlanet is the beacon of that. Though some criticize Sackboy's floaty jumps, I look past that and still enjoy the platforming. What I love most, however, is the ability to create anything and everything. Basically anything you see in the games' campaigns can be made in LittleBigPlanet's highly intricate level creators. Make objects, make enemies, make whatever you want. You don't even have to make a platformer, for goodness sake. The level of what you can craft with LittleBigPlanet's tools is nothing short of amazing, and I have lost many night's sleep tinkering and tailoring custom designs to share with the community at large. LittleBigPlanet as a series is truly something special.
2) Ratchet & Clank
1) God of War
===
There ends the week here at SuperPhillip Central. Stay tuned next week for even more content. Until then, what PlayStation series are your favorites? Let the world know in the comments below.
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
PS3 Games That I'd Like to See Get A Trophy Patch (Which Probably Won't)
Like Uncharted: Drake's Fortune before it, recently Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots received a long-awaited patch, enabling trophies for prospective collectors to obtain. That sparked an interest in me to see what other games in the PlayStation 3 library that came out before Sony and third-parties' implementation of the trophy system. These five following games are ones that I would no doubt be interested in playing through again if such a trophy patch were to be included, though the likelihood is not that high.
Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction
One of my favorite entries in the Ratchet & Clank franchise is Tools of Destruction, the game that brought the furry lombax and wise-cracking robot into high-definition for the first time. I would think a trophy patch for the PS3's first Ratchet & Clank game would be a perfect thing to have for the series's 10th anniversary this year (in addition to the Ratchet & Clank trilogy re-releasing on one Blu-ray disc later this year for North America -- it's already out in PAL territories). Such achievable trophies could have possessing one million bolts at one time, building the R.Y.N.O. IV through obtaining all of the Gadgetron Holo-Plans, nabbing all of the hidden Golden Bolts, trophies for completing five skill points, ten skill points, fifteen skill points, and so forth, and for upgrading all weapons fully. I already love Tools of Destruction, and such a patch would make me fall in love with the title all over again.
Resistance: Fall of Man
Using its love for creating off-the-wall and high-powered weaponry such as seen in the aforementioned Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction, Insomniac Games made a first-person shooter with traditional 1950s firepower as well as a totally original and futuristic arsenal for players to utilize. Resistance: Fall of Man takes players through an alternate history where an alien race known as the Chimera have taken over large portions of the earth, exterminating a significant portion of humanity, and the remaining humans band together to form one last resistance to save mankind. If a trophy patch were implemented into Resistance, I would want the trophies to all be ones that can be obtained via single-player. The problem I have with multiplayer ones is twofold: 1) If the community isn't active or populated, it can make finding matches challenging, and 2) If the wrong type of trophies were in multiplayer, most players would go out of their way to obtain them instead of actively assisting their teammates; they'd be playing selfishly.
Hot Shots Golf: Out of Bounds
While not my favorite Hot Shots Golf game in the series for the main reason that the amount of courses from the fourth installment to the fifth installment decreased pretty notably, Hot Shots Golf: Out of Bounds (known as Minna no Golf 5 in Japan and Everybody's Golf 5 in PAL areas) carried out a brand-new swinging mechanic, brought forth six original courses, and added a story mode where players competed in tournaments and in VS. matches against computer-controlled opponents. PlayStation Move accessibility was added in Japan last year and in other territories this year, but there was no trophy patch that went with it. That's a shame as World Invitational proved, Hot Shots Golf fans find extra incentive to master a game through not only online but through obtaining trophies. Such trophies that could be earned include reaching certain ranks in story mode, achieving special shots like hole-in-ones, albatrosses, and chip-ins, playing on the individual courses a certain number of times, unlocking all Intermediate and then Advanced characters, and other fun achievements.
Heavenly Sword
Often compared to one of Sony's other action-oriented properties, God of War, Heavenly Sword has gameplay that has both a melee attack and ranged attack focus. It stars Nariko, an incredibly capable red-haired vixen full of drive and ambition, wielding the all-powerful titular Heavenly Sword. Nariko can switch between a series of three different stances to unleash holy hell on foes: Speed, Range, and Power. The actual campaign of Heavenly Sword does not drag on for too long. That was one of my complaints with the game. However, the addition of trophies (despite this series being on the back-burner) would make the title all the more appealing and add some much needed replay value. Sniping a certain amount of enemies as Kai, relinquishing a specific number of foes in each of Nariko's three stances, obtaining a given amount of glyphs, and beating bosses without damage could make for intriguing new ways to play an old game.
Saints Row 2
It seemed like a reasonable idea (not quite a sure thing) that third-parties would take games that already had achievements on the Xbox 360 and just turn them into trophies for the PlayStation 3 version. This did not happen most of the time.. Instead, Saints Row 2 came out shortly after Sony implemented trophies for most of their games. However, trophy use was only mandatory as of the beginning of 2009. (Saints Row 2 released in October of 2008, after trophies materialized, but before they were a must-have feature.) Regardless, I can't imagine if it would have been relatively easy to just create a trophy list based off the Xbox 360 achievement list for the PS3 version of Saints Row 2 as I am not a developer. I don't see how it would have been too terribly tough. Even the Greatest Hits release could have been a prime opportunity to execute such a patch.
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Those are just five examples of games released prior to Sony's trophy system being required for developers to use. Like the article title says, the hope for these games to actually get such a patch is a long shot, but that doesn't mean I can't dream. After all, Metal Gear Solid 4 seemed to be a long shot, too, and a trophy patch finally happened. Who can really say what will happen in the future? As for now, what PS3 games would you like to see get trophies, or get added trophies to collect upon the ones you already have to work on? Speak out in the comments section below.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
12 in '12: Most Wanted Games
If you hadn't realized it by now, it is a new year. Maybe you were still in your Y2K bunker, or you were still on a New Year's Eve bender. Regardless, with a new year comes new games for the masses to play and enjoy. This list of twelve games is my most anticipated titles (that have been announced thus far) for the year 2012. 12 in '12. Makes enough sense, does it not? Note: The games that follow are really in no particular order.
Resident Evil 6 (PS3, 360)
Announced late last week for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 (I hope it's coming to Wii U as that platform needs all the third-party support it can get), Resident Evil 6 takes it to the player like an axe to a zombie's forehead. Leon S. Kennedy returns as does the boulder-punching Chris Redfield in what looks to be a return to the zombies of old. The action is faster with swifter zombies, the story seems even more convoluted, and the set pieces (at least from the trailer) look to be incredible. Resident Evil 6 appears to conclude the triple does of Resident Evil with Revelations (3DS), Operation Raccoon City (PS3, 360), and this game. If you still haven't had enough RE by the end of this game, perhaps you should see a specialist about your condition...
Tales of Graces f (PS3)
Originally appearing on the Wii in the form of simply Tales of Graces, Namco Bandai couldn't resist getting the game into more people's hands with the upgraded Tales of Graces f. Unlike the Wii iteration, however, f is actually coming stateside in mid-March. I've been craving a colorful action RPG, so Tales of Graces f seems to fit that mold just perfectly. Sure, I might have to sit through a trope-ridden game full of anime cliches and preteen characters, but as long as the gameplay is up to snuff, I will persevere through. It helps that the art style is immensely captivating.
Tales of the Abyss (3DS)
I have been craving for a 3DS RPG since I received the system in late August of last year. Soon my wait will soon be over when Namco Bandai releases Tales of the Abyss 3D to North America. Most PAL players have already been able to snag a copy and encompass themselves into the world the game presents. Tales of the Abyss originally came out for the PlayStation 2 in 2006. Many were knee-deep in the 360, PS3, and Wii by then, so the game was forgotten by most, yours truly included. Now I will rectify my error through playing this game in full 3D with little in the way of framerate problems and poor loading times that plagued the PS2 original.
Resident Evil: Revelations (3DS)
Some critics of recent Resident Evil titles such as Resident Evil 4 and Resident Evil 5 have complained about the larger focus on action than suspense. RE4 managed to walk a fine line between the two, but RE5 pretty much featured action front and center. Capcom aims to put the horror back into survival horror with Resident Evil: Revelations, a game currently exclusive to the 3DS. However, we all know how port-happy Capcom can be. Just look at RE4 which has appeared on everything from the current gen consoles to iOS. Putting a greater emphasis on frights, close quarters combat, and claustrophobia-inducing corridors, Revelations seems to hark back to the olden days of the franchise where horror didn't take a backseat to the action.
Kid Icarus: Uprising (3DS)
After twenty-five years or so, Pit is back in a starring role! Sakurai-san (I find it to be better than Mr. Sakurai) and his team at Project Sora have developed one half an on-rails shooter a la Star Fox 64 and one half a ground combat game in Kid Icarus: Uprising. The game offers the ability for Pit to earn new weapons like claws, daggers, and bows in his quest to oust the evil Medusa and her many minions. Thankfully, Pit isn't alone as he has the guidance of Palutena to assist him in his journey. Personally, I'm concerned about the controls of the game as any game that comes packed with a stand can't have optimal controls. Regardless, I am still excited for this game even more so than I was when it was first announced alongside the 3DS.
Mario Party 9 (Wii)
Since Hudson is being killed off by those jerks at Konami, ND Cube, the team behind the stellar and fun Wii Party, are taking their shot at developing the newest Mario Party. Unlike 8, this one is built exclusively for Wii and not just putting GameCube assets and transferring them over to the Wii. New to the series is Party Adventure mode where four opponents travel together, competing against bosses and taking on one another in mini-games to earn Mini Stars. The player with the most Mini Stars at the conclusion of the board wins. While there is no online play to speak of, I am really looking forward to Mario Party 9. It's always a hot series to play with friends or family, and nine looks to be no different.
Xenoblade Chronicles (Wii)
Fans were crying (maybe even literally) for Nintendo of America to localize this game for North American audiences. Somehow they got their wish albeit with a caveat. The game will only be available on Nintendo's online shop or through GameStop. Since I cannot stand GameStop, I'll be going with the lesser of two evils and ordering the game through Nintendo directly. Many have been stating that this isn't just a tremendous RPG because it's on Wii, but it's a tremendous RPG because it blurs the line between JRPGs and WRPGs. Add in some intense combat and a plethora of quests to partake in, and you have a highly anticipated title on your hands.
Final Fantasy XIII-2 (PS3, 360)
Set three years after a game I haven't even played yet, Final Fantasy XIII-2 tells the tale of Serah and Noel who go searching for Lightning, the heroine of the original game who has gone missing. Gone are the corridor dungeons and areas of XIII that limited exploration severely. The world is much more open and nonlinear. It just begs for players to invest hours upon hours combing every corner, every inch, every plateau in search of adventure. I'm hoping that I don't need much knowledge on the plot of Final Fantasy XIII to fully enjoy its direct sequel. Regardless, as long as the fun is there, so will I!
Hot Shots Golf: World Invitational (PSV)
Fooooooore! Chip, drive, and putt all in the palm of your hand with Hot Shots Golf: World Invitational which is essentially Hot Shots Golf 6. You know, Sony gets flak for not investing their A teams to develop games on their hand-helds, but what do you call this? Clap Hanz is definitely a first-tier developer for Sony, and I have no doubt it will show with World Invitational. Yes, I probably am not getting a Vita anytime soon (at least not in the year 2012), but I can still anticipate its titles. I love arcade golf games, and even though Out of Bounds was depressingly disappointing, I have faith in the team behind this game.
Uncharted: Golden Abyss (PSV)
Sony Bend might not be as well as the caliber of Naughty Dog, but they are doing their best to emulate the source material. Uncharted: Golden Abyss takes the dashing charm of Nathan Drake to the small screen in one big adventure. Chuck grenades, put the accelerometer to ample use, and take down baddies both large and small in this journey into the Golden Abyss. I heard that Sony Bend was wanting to perhaps patch online play into the game post-launch. That would add even more of an incentive to plop down the cash and pick up what will probably be one of the Vita's first excellent games.
LittleBigPlanet (PSV)
I must have spent around 100 hours tinkering with own levels and playing other people's creations in both LittleBigPlanet and LittleBigPlanet 2. LittleBigPlanet 2 won runner-up at the SPC Best of 2011 Awards this past month, so it is only natural that I look forward to the all-new Vita iteration. Nearly all of the Vita's functions are put to good use. Need to get a platform over to Sackboy? Tilt the device towards Sackboy. Need to get some platforms to protrude forward for Sackboy to jump on them? Use the back touch screen to push them forward. If online play is a feature, then this installment of LittleBigPlanet seems like a no-brainer.
Wipeout 2048 (PSV)
The earliest edition of Wipeout offers wider tracks and 30 fps for some fast and frenetic racing action. While I am in the camp that Wipeout doesn't hold a candle to the F-Zero series (Who can beat Captain Falcon after all?), the series is still an outstanding one definitely. I might not be a pro at the franchise (Wipeout HD kicked my butt all over the place), I still have a lot of fun playing the games. Pure and Pulse on the PSP were great in this regard. If the track design of the demo is anything to note, then there are going to be some insane and devious designs to the courses indeed. Top it all off with online play, and you have a must buy for me.
So, now you have my list of twelve games for 2012, and we haven't even seen what E3 holds for the industry! Do you have a list of your own of twelve games that interest you for the year? If so, hit me up with it in the comments section.
Resident Evil 6 (PS3, 360)
Announced late last week for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 (I hope it's coming to Wii U as that platform needs all the third-party support it can get), Resident Evil 6 takes it to the player like an axe to a zombie's forehead. Leon S. Kennedy returns as does the boulder-punching Chris Redfield in what looks to be a return to the zombies of old. The action is faster with swifter zombies, the story seems even more convoluted, and the set pieces (at least from the trailer) look to be incredible. Resident Evil 6 appears to conclude the triple does of Resident Evil with Revelations (3DS), Operation Raccoon City (PS3, 360), and this game. If you still haven't had enough RE by the end of this game, perhaps you should see a specialist about your condition...
Tales of Graces f (PS3)
Originally appearing on the Wii in the form of simply Tales of Graces, Namco Bandai couldn't resist getting the game into more people's hands with the upgraded Tales of Graces f. Unlike the Wii iteration, however, f is actually coming stateside in mid-March. I've been craving a colorful action RPG, so Tales of Graces f seems to fit that mold just perfectly. Sure, I might have to sit through a trope-ridden game full of anime cliches and preteen characters, but as long as the gameplay is up to snuff, I will persevere through. It helps that the art style is immensely captivating.
Tales of the Abyss (3DS)
I have been craving for a 3DS RPG since I received the system in late August of last year. Soon my wait will soon be over when Namco Bandai releases Tales of the Abyss 3D to North America. Most PAL players have already been able to snag a copy and encompass themselves into the world the game presents. Tales of the Abyss originally came out for the PlayStation 2 in 2006. Many were knee-deep in the 360, PS3, and Wii by then, so the game was forgotten by most, yours truly included. Now I will rectify my error through playing this game in full 3D with little in the way of framerate problems and poor loading times that plagued the PS2 original.
Resident Evil: Revelations (3DS)
Some critics of recent Resident Evil titles such as Resident Evil 4 and Resident Evil 5 have complained about the larger focus on action than suspense. RE4 managed to walk a fine line between the two, but RE5 pretty much featured action front and center. Capcom aims to put the horror back into survival horror with Resident Evil: Revelations, a game currently exclusive to the 3DS. However, we all know how port-happy Capcom can be. Just look at RE4 which has appeared on everything from the current gen consoles to iOS. Putting a greater emphasis on frights, close quarters combat, and claustrophobia-inducing corridors, Revelations seems to hark back to the olden days of the franchise where horror didn't take a backseat to the action.
Kid Icarus: Uprising (3DS)
After twenty-five years or so, Pit is back in a starring role! Sakurai-san (I find it to be better than Mr. Sakurai) and his team at Project Sora have developed one half an on-rails shooter a la Star Fox 64 and one half a ground combat game in Kid Icarus: Uprising. The game offers the ability for Pit to earn new weapons like claws, daggers, and bows in his quest to oust the evil Medusa and her many minions. Thankfully, Pit isn't alone as he has the guidance of Palutena to assist him in his journey. Personally, I'm concerned about the controls of the game as any game that comes packed with a stand can't have optimal controls. Regardless, I am still excited for this game even more so than I was when it was first announced alongside the 3DS.
Mario Party 9 (Wii)
Since Hudson is being killed off by those jerks at Konami, ND Cube, the team behind the stellar and fun Wii Party, are taking their shot at developing the newest Mario Party. Unlike 8, this one is built exclusively for Wii and not just putting GameCube assets and transferring them over to the Wii. New to the series is Party Adventure mode where four opponents travel together, competing against bosses and taking on one another in mini-games to earn Mini Stars. The player with the most Mini Stars at the conclusion of the board wins. While there is no online play to speak of, I am really looking forward to Mario Party 9. It's always a hot series to play with friends or family, and nine looks to be no different.
Xenoblade Chronicles (Wii)
Fans were crying (maybe even literally) for Nintendo of America to localize this game for North American audiences. Somehow they got their wish albeit with a caveat. The game will only be available on Nintendo's online shop or through GameStop. Since I cannot stand GameStop, I'll be going with the lesser of two evils and ordering the game through Nintendo directly. Many have been stating that this isn't just a tremendous RPG because it's on Wii, but it's a tremendous RPG because it blurs the line between JRPGs and WRPGs. Add in some intense combat and a plethora of quests to partake in, and you have a highly anticipated title on your hands.
Final Fantasy XIII-2 (PS3, 360)
Set three years after a game I haven't even played yet, Final Fantasy XIII-2 tells the tale of Serah and Noel who go searching for Lightning, the heroine of the original game who has gone missing. Gone are the corridor dungeons and areas of XIII that limited exploration severely. The world is much more open and nonlinear. It just begs for players to invest hours upon hours combing every corner, every inch, every plateau in search of adventure. I'm hoping that I don't need much knowledge on the plot of Final Fantasy XIII to fully enjoy its direct sequel. Regardless, as long as the fun is there, so will I!
Hot Shots Golf: World Invitational (PSV)
Fooooooore! Chip, drive, and putt all in the palm of your hand with Hot Shots Golf: World Invitational which is essentially Hot Shots Golf 6. You know, Sony gets flak for not investing their A teams to develop games on their hand-helds, but what do you call this? Clap Hanz is definitely a first-tier developer for Sony, and I have no doubt it will show with World Invitational. Yes, I probably am not getting a Vita anytime soon (at least not in the year 2012), but I can still anticipate its titles. I love arcade golf games, and even though Out of Bounds was depressingly disappointing, I have faith in the team behind this game.
Uncharted: Golden Abyss (PSV)
Sony Bend might not be as well as the caliber of Naughty Dog, but they are doing their best to emulate the source material. Uncharted: Golden Abyss takes the dashing charm of Nathan Drake to the small screen in one big adventure. Chuck grenades, put the accelerometer to ample use, and take down baddies both large and small in this journey into the Golden Abyss. I heard that Sony Bend was wanting to perhaps patch online play into the game post-launch. That would add even more of an incentive to plop down the cash and pick up what will probably be one of the Vita's first excellent games.
LittleBigPlanet (PSV)
I must have spent around 100 hours tinkering with own levels and playing other people's creations in both LittleBigPlanet and LittleBigPlanet 2. LittleBigPlanet 2 won runner-up at the SPC Best of 2011 Awards this past month, so it is only natural that I look forward to the all-new Vita iteration. Nearly all of the Vita's functions are put to good use. Need to get a platform over to Sackboy? Tilt the device towards Sackboy. Need to get some platforms to protrude forward for Sackboy to jump on them? Use the back touch screen to push them forward. If online play is a feature, then this installment of LittleBigPlanet seems like a no-brainer.
Wipeout 2048 (PSV)
The earliest edition of Wipeout offers wider tracks and 30 fps for some fast and frenetic racing action. While I am in the camp that Wipeout doesn't hold a candle to the F-Zero series (Who can beat Captain Falcon after all?), the series is still an outstanding one definitely. I might not be a pro at the franchise (Wipeout HD kicked my butt all over the place), I still have a lot of fun playing the games. Pure and Pulse on the PSP were great in this regard. If the track design of the demo is anything to note, then there are going to be some insane and devious designs to the courses indeed. Top it all off with online play, and you have a must buy for me.
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So, now you have my list of twelve games for 2012, and we haven't even seen what E3 holds for the industry! Do you have a list of your own of twelve games that interest you for the year? If so, hit me up with it in the comments section.
Monday, January 9, 2012
Top Five Most Wanted PlayStation Vita Games
Sony's sequel to their PlayStation Portable, the PS Vita, is set to release in North America on February 15th. In Japan, it released mid last month, but its sales have died down considerably, and that isn't good when the weeks it was available in were generally when gaming platforms perform well. Add to this that last week no PSV titles appeared in the Media Create top twenty, and Sony's newest hand-held isn't starting off incredibly. Nonetheless, we can only hope that the launch sales go better in the West than Japan.
Much like I did with the Nintendo 3DS, I have decided to make a top five list stating which PlayStation Vita titles I am most looking forward to. These are the most interesting of the interesting, the best of the best, the grandest of the grand, etc. Perhaps you will find a new title to look forward to from my list!
5) WipEout 2048
Little has been divulged about the latest in this futuristic racing franchise, but from videos and trailers the game looks much faster than the PSP entries. You can be for certain that the weapon-based action, quick thrills, harrowing hairpin turns, and races through futuristic forests, metropolises, and factories will all be on display on the gorgeous PlayStation Vita screen. Despite not knowing much about the game, we won't have to wait long to get it in our mitts as WipEout 2048 veers onto the PSV on launch day.
4) ModNation Racers: Road Trip
Another racer as well as another launch title for the Vita, ModNation Racers: Road Trip. Not only will this SCEA-developed game have all-new tracks, customization options, and a story mode, but the ability to create tracks of your own will not be streamlined even further thanks to the touch controls. Just draw the basic track design with the tip of your finger, and then plop in objects, obstacles, and scenery to craft a masterpiece of a track. Then challenge your friends to try it out. [UPDATE: It seems Road Trip will NOT have online play after all.] ModNation Racers: Road Trip appears to continue the tradition of speedy karts and great customization.
3) LittleBigPlanet (tentative title)
I seem to have a bit of a habit picking games for my most wanted list that the gaming public (including yours truly) knows next to nothing about. This continues with LittleBigPlanet (tentative title). What we can expect according to the box art of the game are touch controls making for easier creation of custom levels, objects, and characters as well as a new story campaign full of creative levels. Detractors of the series won't find anything to fall in love with this game, but fans of the franchise will have plenty of activities to do and levels to make.
2) Uncharted: Golden Abyss
Nathan Drake returns, but this time he arrives on a portable thanks to the efforts of Sony Bend. This hand-held entry has Drake teaming up with an old friend as well as the granddaughter of an archeologist gone missing in their search of the Golden Abyss in Central America. Use the touch screen for a multitude of actions, climb cliffs and ledges, and participate in intense gunfights in this bite-sized treasure hunting adventure. Sony Bend has done their best to recreate Naughty Dog's IP for the small screen, and I cannot help but anticipate this title. It comes out on launch day, too.
1) Hot Shots Golf: World Invitational
It is no secret that Hot Shots Golf: Out of Bounds for the PlayStation 3 disappointed me with its lack of modes and options when compared to its PS2 predecessors. However, the PSP installments of Open Tee 1 and 2 were quite good and offered a myriad of modes, courses, and characters to unlock for me to continue playing into the hundreds of hours. Hot Shots Golf: World Invitational introduces optional touch controls to make chipping, putting, and driving even easier than before. Clap Hanz brings a golf bag full of crazy characters, picturesque courses, and online play for owners of the game to challenge friends and rivals over the net. For these reasons I list World Invitational as my most wanted Vita game.
Sure, I'm probably going to wait for the PS Vita to drop in price (at this rate it is a given it will), and even then I won't be able to afford one, but the quality of quantity of titles is very much apparent. This is one of the best launch lineups of any platform in recent memory.
But what about you? What PlayStation Vita games excite you the most? Pick my brain (not literally) and list your most wanted PSV games in the comments section.
Much like I did with the Nintendo 3DS, I have decided to make a top five list stating which PlayStation Vita titles I am most looking forward to. These are the most interesting of the interesting, the best of the best, the grandest of the grand, etc. Perhaps you will find a new title to look forward to from my list!
5) WipEout 2048
Little has been divulged about the latest in this futuristic racing franchise, but from videos and trailers the game looks much faster than the PSP entries. You can be for certain that the weapon-based action, quick thrills, harrowing hairpin turns, and races through futuristic forests, metropolises, and factories will all be on display on the gorgeous PlayStation Vita screen. Despite not knowing much about the game, we won't have to wait long to get it in our mitts as WipEout 2048 veers onto the PSV on launch day.
4) ModNation Racers: Road Trip
Another racer as well as another launch title for the Vita, ModNation Racers: Road Trip. Not only will this SCEA-developed game have all-new tracks, customization options, and a story mode, but the ability to create tracks of your own will not be streamlined even further thanks to the touch controls. Just draw the basic track design with the tip of your finger, and then plop in objects, obstacles, and scenery to craft a masterpiece of a track. Then challenge your friends to try it out. [UPDATE: It seems Road Trip will NOT have online play after all.] ModNation Racers: Road Trip appears to continue the tradition of speedy karts and great customization.
3) LittleBigPlanet (tentative title)
I seem to have a bit of a habit picking games for my most wanted list that the gaming public (including yours truly) knows next to nothing about. This continues with LittleBigPlanet (tentative title). What we can expect according to the box art of the game are touch controls making for easier creation of custom levels, objects, and characters as well as a new story campaign full of creative levels. Detractors of the series won't find anything to fall in love with this game, but fans of the franchise will have plenty of activities to do and levels to make.
2) Uncharted: Golden Abyss
Nathan Drake returns, but this time he arrives on a portable thanks to the efforts of Sony Bend. This hand-held entry has Drake teaming up with an old friend as well as the granddaughter of an archeologist gone missing in their search of the Golden Abyss in Central America. Use the touch screen for a multitude of actions, climb cliffs and ledges, and participate in intense gunfights in this bite-sized treasure hunting adventure. Sony Bend has done their best to recreate Naughty Dog's IP for the small screen, and I cannot help but anticipate this title. It comes out on launch day, too.
1) Hot Shots Golf: World Invitational
It is no secret that Hot Shots Golf: Out of Bounds for the PlayStation 3 disappointed me with its lack of modes and options when compared to its PS2 predecessors. However, the PSP installments of Open Tee 1 and 2 were quite good and offered a myriad of modes, courses, and characters to unlock for me to continue playing into the hundreds of hours. Hot Shots Golf: World Invitational introduces optional touch controls to make chipping, putting, and driving even easier than before. Clap Hanz brings a golf bag full of crazy characters, picturesque courses, and online play for owners of the game to challenge friends and rivals over the net. For these reasons I list World Invitational as my most wanted Vita game.
===
Sure, I'm probably going to wait for the PS Vita to drop in price (at this rate it is a given it will), and even then I won't be able to afford one, but the quality of quantity of titles is very much apparent. This is one of the best launch lineups of any platform in recent memory.
But what about you? What PlayStation Vita games excite you the most? Pick my brain (not literally) and list your most wanted PSV games in the comments section.
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