Welcome to Part 2 of SuperPhillip Central's 2013 Holiday Gift Guide. This is our third year in a row doing this special duo of articles, and we hope at least some of you out there find it useful. The final part of our gift guide focuses on multiplatform titles. From Grand Theft Auto to Call of Duty, there's plenty to stuff a loved one's stocking with. As always, if you feel we've neglected to mention a game that you think would make for a great holiday present, let us know in the comments.
Showing posts with label skylanders: swap force. Show all posts
Showing posts with label skylanders: swap force. Show all posts
Thursday, December 5, 2013
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
Outstanding October: Twelve Games to Look Out for This Month
We have reached the beginning of a new month, so that means it's time to take a look at the planned North American retail video game releases for the month. We've reached the busy time of the game release season, and this is just the beginning. Next month is sure to be even crazier. For now, check out these twelve releases hand-picked by the SuperPhillip Central staff. As always, release dates are subject to change (hopefully not, though). Which of these games do you plan on purchasing, if any?
The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD (Wii U)
Release Date: 10/4
Already released digitally to Wii U owners, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD is having its official retail release on Friday. A limited edition of the game is available for purchase at GameStop stores and online, featuring a collectible 5" Ganondorf figurine. The actual game contains many improvements over its decade's old original, including the obvious higher definition visuals, a less tedious Triforce quest near the end of the game, and Wii U GamePad functionality. The hits keep on coming to the Wii U this fall, and The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD continues this trend.
Beyond: Two Souls (PS3)
Release Date: 10/8
From the makers of Heavy Rain, Beyond: Two Souls is an upcoming psychological thriller releasing next week in North America. The game is receiving lots of hype, and it's well deserved. Actors Ellen Page and Wiilem Dafoe lend their likenesses and voices to the game. Beyond: Two Souls contains a plethora of dialogue, a thought-provoking story, and plenty of twists and turns to keep the player engaged. The game had the honor of being screened at the Tribeca Film Festival-- only the second game to be featured at the festival, the first being L.A. Noire. It looks like Beyond: Two Souls will be yet another killer exclusive for PlayStation 3 owners.
Pokemon X/Y (3DS)
Release Date: 10/12
For the first time in a long time, the majority of staff at SuperPhillip Central (okay, that's two out of three people) are excited for a new mainline Pokemon game. Instead of simply being evolutions (pun intended) to the series, Pokemon X and Pokemon Y are meant to be revolutions to the series, offering 3D maps, 3D battles, character customization, multiple new Pokemon, mega evolutions, new Pokemon types, and so much more. There's no doubt Pokemon X and Y will send Pokemaniacs into a tizzy when it releases on October 12.
Skylanders: Swap Force (Multi)
Release Date: 10/13
Since Disney Infinity released back in August, Activision's Skylanders series got a whole new heap of competition. Rather than rest on its laurels, the newest Skylanders game features an intriguing new component to it, the ability to swap parts of figurines with others to create new characters. In total, there are 256 combinations (heads and bodies) to utilize. In addition to this, a feature from the handheld versions of the series makes its console debut-- the ability to jump, adding platforming to the mix to create an even fresher experience. Skylanders: Swap Force will release October 13. With this and Pokemon releasing back-to-back, kids this October will be more than set for the rest of the year!
LEGO Marvel Super Heroes (Multi)
Release Date: 10/22
Having already dealt with the DC Comics universe with LEGO Batman 2: DC Super Heroes, TT Games are moving onto the Marvel universe of characters. Over 150 Marvel superheroes and villains will be on display in LEGO Marvel Super Heroes, a game following the structure of past LEGO games (i.e. action-adventure moments and puzzle solving gameplay). The story has the universe-destroying Galactus as the main villain, having Nick Fury calling in his team of S.H.I.E.L.D. all-stars to combat the threat. Coming off LEGO Batman 2: DC Super Heroes and LEGO City Undercover, we're certainly hyped for the latest in the LEGO series. We won't have to wait long either, as LEGO Marvel Super Heroes joins forces with consumers on October 22.
Batman: Arkham Origins (Multi)
Release Date: 10/25
When a less refined Batman gets a bounty put on his head, a myriad of assassins make their way into Gotham City to obtain the reward through silencing the Dark Knight for good. Batman: Arkham Origins may not have Rocksteady Studios at the helm, but we believe WB Games Montreal will create a worthy successor to both Arkham Asylum and Arkham City. For the first time in the series's history, a multiplayer component will be implemented. The Wii U version does not contain such a mode, but thankfully it will be priced ten dollars less than the other versions. It's a good alternative for those who don't want multiplayer in their Batman games. Batman: Arkham Origins releases October 25.
Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate (3DS, Vita)
Release Date: 10/25
Accompanying the release of its big brother, Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate is a handheld exclusive game that will launch alongside Arkham Origins. Armature Studios (a studio made up of former Retro Studios developers) is the force behind this 2D Metroid-like game. The focus of Blackgate will be on obtaining new gear, armor and gadgets to access previously inaccessible areas, taking down henchmen and bosses like the Joker, Penguin, and Solomon Grundy. Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate releases on the same day at the completely different home console versions.
Wii Party U (Wii U)
Release Date: 10/25
Wii U is having a party soon, and you're definitely invited. No need to RSVP either! Wii Party U will be releasing later this month, and it will offer a huge array of mini-games, each offering unique ways to play. The game will utilize the Wii Remote Plus controller for the majority of the time, while tabletop games, such as baseball and slot car races, will be played between two players by sharing the Wii U GamePad. Wii Party U might not be everyone's cup of tea, but its relatively low entry price, bundle with a Wii Remote Plus, and oodles of fun for friends and family will make for a grand old time for anyone with an itch to party hearty.
Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag (Multi)
Release Date: 10/29
While all of us have brand fatigue from this yearly series, Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag will most likely interest those that still enjoy the franchise. The game will have a focus between land and naval exploring, offering a multitude of means to journey around Black Flag's three unique cities. Outside of these cities are other areas to come across, such as ruins, forts, and sweltering jungles. Alongside this exploration focus, players will be able to captain their own ship, as well as recruit new crew members. PlayStation 4 and Xbox One versions of Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag will debut with their respective console launches next month, but for Wii U, PS3, PC, and Xbox 360 owners, you'll get your chance to venture through the world of Assassin's Creed IV late this month.
Battlefield 4 (PS3, 360, PC)
Release Date: 10/29
While Assassin's Creed is a series we have brand fatigue from, the military shooters is a genre we suffer genre fatigue from. Still, for those that can't get enough gunning down the enemy as a soldier, Battlefield 4 looks to set itself apart from its closest competition, the almighty Call of Duty franchise. The game will feature large-scale maps for multiplayer action while the single-player campaign will introduce miniature open-world levels to create a greater sense of openness, creating new opportunities for battle. Like Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag, a PS4 and Xbox One version will be releasing on those systems.
Sonic: Lost World (Wii U, 3DS)
Release Date: 10/29
Coming fresh off the heels of Sonic Colors and Sonic Generations, Sonic's Nintendo-exclusive pair of new titles takes the series back to new heights. Sonic: Lost World is a game heavily reminiscent of Super Mario Galaxy, but that's quite alright. Why not draw inspiration from the best? Sonic's arsenal includes all-new parkour moves to reach new areas in the levels of the game, more options to control Sonic's speed, and a focus on tight platforming rather than heavy speed. Though the game was delayed a week from its original October 22 release date, we can wait a week to try out Sonic's newest platforming escapade.
WWE 2K14 (PS3, 360)
Release Date: 10/29
WWE 2K14 is the first game in the series under the 2K moniker, as THQ went belly up and 2K Sports took the series's mantle. Many improvements have been made to create a faster, more fluid gameplay experience. The big draw of WWE 2K14 is the new 30 Years of Wrestlemania mode, a mode featuring three decades of WWE Wrestlemania highlights, playable matches, and superstars past and present to play as. Each era of the WWE will be fully represented, tugging on the heartstrings of those of us who grew up watching Hulk Hogan, Bret Hart, Shawn Michaels, The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and many more. WWE 2K14 will lay the smack down on store shelves near the end of the month.
The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD (Wii U)
Release Date: 10/4
Already released digitally to Wii U owners, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD is having its official retail release on Friday. A limited edition of the game is available for purchase at GameStop stores and online, featuring a collectible 5" Ganondorf figurine. The actual game contains many improvements over its decade's old original, including the obvious higher definition visuals, a less tedious Triforce quest near the end of the game, and Wii U GamePad functionality. The hits keep on coming to the Wii U this fall, and The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD continues this trend.
Beyond: Two Souls (PS3)
Release Date: 10/8
From the makers of Heavy Rain, Beyond: Two Souls is an upcoming psychological thriller releasing next week in North America. The game is receiving lots of hype, and it's well deserved. Actors Ellen Page and Wiilem Dafoe lend their likenesses and voices to the game. Beyond: Two Souls contains a plethora of dialogue, a thought-provoking story, and plenty of twists and turns to keep the player engaged. The game had the honor of being screened at the Tribeca Film Festival-- only the second game to be featured at the festival, the first being L.A. Noire. It looks like Beyond: Two Souls will be yet another killer exclusive for PlayStation 3 owners.
Pokemon X/Y (3DS)
Release Date: 10/12
For the first time in a long time, the majority of staff at SuperPhillip Central (okay, that's two out of three people) are excited for a new mainline Pokemon game. Instead of simply being evolutions (pun intended) to the series, Pokemon X and Pokemon Y are meant to be revolutions to the series, offering 3D maps, 3D battles, character customization, multiple new Pokemon, mega evolutions, new Pokemon types, and so much more. There's no doubt Pokemon X and Y will send Pokemaniacs into a tizzy when it releases on October 12.
Skylanders: Swap Force (Multi)
Release Date: 10/13
Since Disney Infinity released back in August, Activision's Skylanders series got a whole new heap of competition. Rather than rest on its laurels, the newest Skylanders game features an intriguing new component to it, the ability to swap parts of figurines with others to create new characters. In total, there are 256 combinations (heads and bodies) to utilize. In addition to this, a feature from the handheld versions of the series makes its console debut-- the ability to jump, adding platforming to the mix to create an even fresher experience. Skylanders: Swap Force will release October 13. With this and Pokemon releasing back-to-back, kids this October will be more than set for the rest of the year!
LEGO Marvel Super Heroes (Multi)
Release Date: 10/22
Having already dealt with the DC Comics universe with LEGO Batman 2: DC Super Heroes, TT Games are moving onto the Marvel universe of characters. Over 150 Marvel superheroes and villains will be on display in LEGO Marvel Super Heroes, a game following the structure of past LEGO games (i.e. action-adventure moments and puzzle solving gameplay). The story has the universe-destroying Galactus as the main villain, having Nick Fury calling in his team of S.H.I.E.L.D. all-stars to combat the threat. Coming off LEGO Batman 2: DC Super Heroes and LEGO City Undercover, we're certainly hyped for the latest in the LEGO series. We won't have to wait long either, as LEGO Marvel Super Heroes joins forces with consumers on October 22.
Batman: Arkham Origins (Multi)
Release Date: 10/25
When a less refined Batman gets a bounty put on his head, a myriad of assassins make their way into Gotham City to obtain the reward through silencing the Dark Knight for good. Batman: Arkham Origins may not have Rocksteady Studios at the helm, but we believe WB Games Montreal will create a worthy successor to both Arkham Asylum and Arkham City. For the first time in the series's history, a multiplayer component will be implemented. The Wii U version does not contain such a mode, but thankfully it will be priced ten dollars less than the other versions. It's a good alternative for those who don't want multiplayer in their Batman games. Batman: Arkham Origins releases October 25.
Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate (3DS, Vita)
Release Date: 10/25
Accompanying the release of its big brother, Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate is a handheld exclusive game that will launch alongside Arkham Origins. Armature Studios (a studio made up of former Retro Studios developers) is the force behind this 2D Metroid-like game. The focus of Blackgate will be on obtaining new gear, armor and gadgets to access previously inaccessible areas, taking down henchmen and bosses like the Joker, Penguin, and Solomon Grundy. Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate releases on the same day at the completely different home console versions.
Wii Party U (Wii U)
Release Date: 10/25
Wii U is having a party soon, and you're definitely invited. No need to RSVP either! Wii Party U will be releasing later this month, and it will offer a huge array of mini-games, each offering unique ways to play. The game will utilize the Wii Remote Plus controller for the majority of the time, while tabletop games, such as baseball and slot car races, will be played between two players by sharing the Wii U GamePad. Wii Party U might not be everyone's cup of tea, but its relatively low entry price, bundle with a Wii Remote Plus, and oodles of fun for friends and family will make for a grand old time for anyone with an itch to party hearty.
Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag (Multi)
Release Date: 10/29
While all of us have brand fatigue from this yearly series, Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag will most likely interest those that still enjoy the franchise. The game will have a focus between land and naval exploring, offering a multitude of means to journey around Black Flag's three unique cities. Outside of these cities are other areas to come across, such as ruins, forts, and sweltering jungles. Alongside this exploration focus, players will be able to captain their own ship, as well as recruit new crew members. PlayStation 4 and Xbox One versions of Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag will debut with their respective console launches next month, but for Wii U, PS3, PC, and Xbox 360 owners, you'll get your chance to venture through the world of Assassin's Creed IV late this month.
Battlefield 4 (PS3, 360, PC)
Release Date: 10/29
While Assassin's Creed is a series we have brand fatigue from, the military shooters is a genre we suffer genre fatigue from. Still, for those that can't get enough gunning down the enemy as a soldier, Battlefield 4 looks to set itself apart from its closest competition, the almighty Call of Duty franchise. The game will feature large-scale maps for multiplayer action while the single-player campaign will introduce miniature open-world levels to create a greater sense of openness, creating new opportunities for battle. Like Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag, a PS4 and Xbox One version will be releasing on those systems.
Sonic: Lost World (Wii U, 3DS)
Release Date: 10/29
Coming fresh off the heels of Sonic Colors and Sonic Generations, Sonic's Nintendo-exclusive pair of new titles takes the series back to new heights. Sonic: Lost World is a game heavily reminiscent of Super Mario Galaxy, but that's quite alright. Why not draw inspiration from the best? Sonic's arsenal includes all-new parkour moves to reach new areas in the levels of the game, more options to control Sonic's speed, and a focus on tight platforming rather than heavy speed. Though the game was delayed a week from its original October 22 release date, we can wait a week to try out Sonic's newest platforming escapade.
WWE 2K14 (PS3, 360)
Release Date: 10/29
WWE 2K14 is the first game in the series under the 2K moniker, as THQ went belly up and 2K Sports took the series's mantle. Many improvements have been made to create a faster, more fluid gameplay experience. The big draw of WWE 2K14 is the new 30 Years of Wrestlemania mode, a mode featuring three decades of WWE Wrestlemania highlights, playable matches, and superstars past and present to play as. Each era of the WWE will be fully represented, tugging on the heartstrings of those of us who grew up watching Hulk Hogan, Bret Hart, Shawn Michaels, The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and many more. WWE 2K14 will lay the smack down on store shelves near the end of the month.
Thursday, August 22, 2013
2013: The Return of the Year of the Platformer?
We don't follow the Chinese New Year at all, so we're not certain of what year it is for that country. Year of the Snake? Year of the Dragon? Year of the Dolphin? Who knows. What we do know is that for the gaming industry, we're seeing a large number of platforming titles, both 2D and 3D, that make us extremely happy. Platformers are what we grew up on as 8-bit and then 16-bit era kids. It's our fondest genre to play. Perhaps we could call 2013 the Year of the Platformer instead of whatever animal China has. Here are nine of the biggest retail platformers that are coming out from now until the end of the year!
Super Mario 3D World (Wii U)
We are of the mind that Super Mario 3D World is the type of game that players won't know they wanted until they get to experience the final version. No doubt many have already made up their minds about the game because it's not Super Mario Galaxy 3, or a reasonable substitute. Instead, the game is akin to one of the greatest Nintendo 3DS games, Super Mario 3D Land. That excites us already, as that game was a perfect mix of 2D and 3D Mario gameplay. The addition of true multiplayer, a first for the 3D line of Mario games, is something we know will make us play through Super Mario 3D World a plethora of times. Knowing that each of the four playable characters control differently is exciting as well. We were hesitant at first to hype Super Mario 3D World, but then we remembered that one of the greatest and most heralded studios in Nintendo EAD is working on the game. Based on their output, we can feel at ease in giving them the benefit of the doubt.
New Super Luigi U (Wii U)
Speaking of years, it's the Year of Luigi, as well. This game has already been available via downloadable content to New Super Mario Bros. U. However, a separate (and $10 more expensive) retail release is coming to North America this Sunday. New Super Luigi U consists of drastically shorter and much more challenging levels than what players experienced in New Super Mario Bros. U. Even the first world consists of difficulty that wasn't present in Mario's adventure until much later in the game. The ability to play as the untouchable Nabbit will allow even beginning players to enjoy Luigi's platforming journey. We wanted more challenge from New Super Mario Bros. U, and now with New Super Luigi U, we've got it!
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze (Wii U)
When Retro Studios was asked which project they wanted to do next, they jumped on the chance to create a new entry in the Donkey Kong Country series. After seeing how well Donkey Kong Country Returns turned out, we're feverishly anticipating Tropical Freeze, set to release some time in November. Levels are much more dynamic this time around, with barrels that blast players around giant trees with a camera that follows. Dixie Kong has returned from her long hiatus from the series, and speaking of hiatuses, Dave Wise, the original composer of the SNES trilogy is on board to create the music for this Wii U exclusive. Did we mention that swimming has returned as well? Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is shaping up to eclipse Retro's initial DKC offering, and that will be one amazing achievement.
Sonic Lost World (Wii U, 3DS)
People often bring up the "Sonic Cycle" for new Sonic the Hedgehog games, but if Sonic Colors and Sonic Generations are anything to go by, that so-called cycle has been broken for a while now. Sonic Lost World hopes to continue that streak, and thus far the circular worlds of the game and parkour-like platforming make us cautiously optimistic. Controlling Sonic is much easier, utilizing the shoulder buttons to set Sonic's speed. This is contrary to past games, where you didn't have as much control over how fast Sonic ran. Without a shoulder button held, Sonic simply saunters. It's only when a shoulder button is pressed down does he speed through levels. Sonic Lost World came as a surprise, and we hope that it succeeds in giving Nintendo another excellent platformer and game on their system.
Ratchet & Clank: Into the Nexus (PS3)
The past two Ratchet & Clank games were respectable in the regard that they tried something new with the series. That said, they were lesser experiences compared to past installments. All 4 One tried four player co-op both online and off, and Full Frontal Assault attempted an action-based tower defense game. Ratchet & Clank: Into the Nexus is a budget title ($29.99 MSRP) that returns the lovable lombax and robot pair to the origins of the series: action platforming with a focus on leveling up weapons through repeated use and using gadgets to explore the colorful worlds of the game. Ratchet & Clank is one of our favorite PlayStation franchises, and we cannot express how happy we are to see the series return to what made it so popular in the first place.
Puppeteer (PS3)
Sony's Japan Studio has not been very pronounced this past generation. They seem to be coming back with a vengeance, however, with the upcoming early September release, Puppeteer. The game is a 2D side-scroller which has players controlling Kutaro, a boy who has been transformed into a puppet and has had his head stolen. Using a magical pair of scissors, Kutaro goes on a platforming journey to retrieve his pilfered head and return to his own world. Sony has no doubt impressed us with the amazing amount of new franchises they have created in the PlayStation 3 era. Not only are they new franchises, but they're new experiences. So many times new IPs are made that simply feel like games we've already played. Puppeteer is thankfully not one of those, and that's why we're so hyped for it, regardless of how well (or bad) it will do commercially.
Rayman Legends (Wii U, PS3, 360, PC, Vita)
Let's get this out of the way. We've tried the PlayStation 3 demo of Rayman Legends, and the Murray parts just don't work as well as the Wii U version. That shouldn't be any surprise, as the Wii U was the system Rayman Legends was built for. Nonetheless, we're bound to have a good time regardless of the platform we get the game on. Ubisoft's delay of Rayman Legends has given the game a multitude of new levels, boss battles, and even Rayman Origins levels made using Legends's sophisticated graphics engine. We cannot wait to finally be able to insert the Rayman Legends disc into our hungry Wii Us. Multiplayer is going to be an absolute blast, if Rayman Origins is anything to go by. We'll most likely be the first ones at our local game store to pick up Legends when it releases early next month. Lucky European gamers can grab the game next week.
Skylanders: Swap Force (PS4, XONE, Wii U, PS3, 360, Wii, 3DS)
Disney Infinity released this past week and has given this next game series some stiff competition. The third game in the Skylanders series is set to release in North America first (unlike past games that Australia received first) this November. It's called Skylanders: Swap Force, and the swapping in the title refers to how each figure has a top half and a bottom half. These can be swapped with other figures to create entirely different creatures. While past console installments have been brawlers with some exploration, Swap Force allows each character to jump, expanding the level design possibilities greatly. Seeing as Skylanders: Swap Force is releasing on practically every platform under the sun, it will be hard to miss when it releases in a few months.
Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures (Wii U, PS3, 360, 3DS)
Okay, we might be stretching it with this one, as Pac-Man as of late hasn't had the greatest success game-wise. Furthermore, a game based off a television show isn't the most promising proposition either. Regardless, we're listing Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures here anyway. If Namco Bandai can fix some of the issues of the Pac-Man World games, such as the camera, for one, Ghostly Adventures will be a much better game for it. While the console versions are 3D platformers, the 3DS version has us most interested, as it is entirely 2 1/2-D. We'll see if our skepticism of Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures is justified when the game releases towards the end of November.
Super Mario 3D World (Wii U)
We are of the mind that Super Mario 3D World is the type of game that players won't know they wanted until they get to experience the final version. No doubt many have already made up their minds about the game because it's not Super Mario Galaxy 3, or a reasonable substitute. Instead, the game is akin to one of the greatest Nintendo 3DS games, Super Mario 3D Land. That excites us already, as that game was a perfect mix of 2D and 3D Mario gameplay. The addition of true multiplayer, a first for the 3D line of Mario games, is something we know will make us play through Super Mario 3D World a plethora of times. Knowing that each of the four playable characters control differently is exciting as well. We were hesitant at first to hype Super Mario 3D World, but then we remembered that one of the greatest and most heralded studios in Nintendo EAD is working on the game. Based on their output, we can feel at ease in giving them the benefit of the doubt.
New Super Luigi U (Wii U)
Speaking of years, it's the Year of Luigi, as well. This game has already been available via downloadable content to New Super Mario Bros. U. However, a separate (and $10 more expensive) retail release is coming to North America this Sunday. New Super Luigi U consists of drastically shorter and much more challenging levels than what players experienced in New Super Mario Bros. U. Even the first world consists of difficulty that wasn't present in Mario's adventure until much later in the game. The ability to play as the untouchable Nabbit will allow even beginning players to enjoy Luigi's platforming journey. We wanted more challenge from New Super Mario Bros. U, and now with New Super Luigi U, we've got it!
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze (Wii U)
When Retro Studios was asked which project they wanted to do next, they jumped on the chance to create a new entry in the Donkey Kong Country series. After seeing how well Donkey Kong Country Returns turned out, we're feverishly anticipating Tropical Freeze, set to release some time in November. Levels are much more dynamic this time around, with barrels that blast players around giant trees with a camera that follows. Dixie Kong has returned from her long hiatus from the series, and speaking of hiatuses, Dave Wise, the original composer of the SNES trilogy is on board to create the music for this Wii U exclusive. Did we mention that swimming has returned as well? Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is shaping up to eclipse Retro's initial DKC offering, and that will be one amazing achievement.
Sonic Lost World (Wii U, 3DS)
People often bring up the "Sonic Cycle" for new Sonic the Hedgehog games, but if Sonic Colors and Sonic Generations are anything to go by, that so-called cycle has been broken for a while now. Sonic Lost World hopes to continue that streak, and thus far the circular worlds of the game and parkour-like platforming make us cautiously optimistic. Controlling Sonic is much easier, utilizing the shoulder buttons to set Sonic's speed. This is contrary to past games, where you didn't have as much control over how fast Sonic ran. Without a shoulder button held, Sonic simply saunters. It's only when a shoulder button is pressed down does he speed through levels. Sonic Lost World came as a surprise, and we hope that it succeeds in giving Nintendo another excellent platformer and game on their system.
Ratchet & Clank: Into the Nexus (PS3)
The past two Ratchet & Clank games were respectable in the regard that they tried something new with the series. That said, they were lesser experiences compared to past installments. All 4 One tried four player co-op both online and off, and Full Frontal Assault attempted an action-based tower defense game. Ratchet & Clank: Into the Nexus is a budget title ($29.99 MSRP) that returns the lovable lombax and robot pair to the origins of the series: action platforming with a focus on leveling up weapons through repeated use and using gadgets to explore the colorful worlds of the game. Ratchet & Clank is one of our favorite PlayStation franchises, and we cannot express how happy we are to see the series return to what made it so popular in the first place.
Puppeteer (PS3)
Sony's Japan Studio has not been very pronounced this past generation. They seem to be coming back with a vengeance, however, with the upcoming early September release, Puppeteer. The game is a 2D side-scroller which has players controlling Kutaro, a boy who has been transformed into a puppet and has had his head stolen. Using a magical pair of scissors, Kutaro goes on a platforming journey to retrieve his pilfered head and return to his own world. Sony has no doubt impressed us with the amazing amount of new franchises they have created in the PlayStation 3 era. Not only are they new franchises, but they're new experiences. So many times new IPs are made that simply feel like games we've already played. Puppeteer is thankfully not one of those, and that's why we're so hyped for it, regardless of how well (or bad) it will do commercially.
Rayman Legends (Wii U, PS3, 360, PC, Vita)
Let's get this out of the way. We've tried the PlayStation 3 demo of Rayman Legends, and the Murray parts just don't work as well as the Wii U version. That shouldn't be any surprise, as the Wii U was the system Rayman Legends was built for. Nonetheless, we're bound to have a good time regardless of the platform we get the game on. Ubisoft's delay of Rayman Legends has given the game a multitude of new levels, boss battles, and even Rayman Origins levels made using Legends's sophisticated graphics engine. We cannot wait to finally be able to insert the Rayman Legends disc into our hungry Wii Us. Multiplayer is going to be an absolute blast, if Rayman Origins is anything to go by. We'll most likely be the first ones at our local game store to pick up Legends when it releases early next month. Lucky European gamers can grab the game next week.
Skylanders: Swap Force (PS4, XONE, Wii U, PS3, 360, Wii, 3DS)
Disney Infinity released this past week and has given this next game series some stiff competition. The third game in the Skylanders series is set to release in North America first (unlike past games that Australia received first) this November. It's called Skylanders: Swap Force, and the swapping in the title refers to how each figure has a top half and a bottom half. These can be swapped with other figures to create entirely different creatures. While past console installments have been brawlers with some exploration, Swap Force allows each character to jump, expanding the level design possibilities greatly. Seeing as Skylanders: Swap Force is releasing on practically every platform under the sun, it will be hard to miss when it releases in a few months.
Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures (Wii U, PS3, 360, 3DS)
Okay, we might be stretching it with this one, as Pac-Man as of late hasn't had the greatest success game-wise. Furthermore, a game based off a television show isn't the most promising proposition either. Regardless, we're listing Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures here anyway. If Namco Bandai can fix some of the issues of the Pac-Man World games, such as the camera, for one, Ghostly Adventures will be a much better game for it. While the console versions are 3D platformers, the 3DS version has us most interested, as it is entirely 2 1/2-D. We'll see if our skepticism of Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures is justified when the game releases towards the end of November.
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