Slutty Puppies Game Blog

IGN is being Wii-diculous!

2006-05-12T03:51:00.000-05:00

Alright, folks, this is a late-night rant so it might be a tad nonsensical; please just bear with me, as I'm slightly upset about something.

Any gaming fan knows E3 is, and has been, going on for a couple of days now. The Xbox 360 and PS3 games and specs have been breath-taking (just as the $600 dollar price tag on Sony's wonder box was, simply put, fucking insane). That's all another post, though.

To be honest, I was most looking forward to news about the Nintendo Wii - please, no jokes, been there and done that; look at the damn title - and I haven't really been disappointed. From the Mario Galaxy to Twilight Princess to Smash Brothers Brawl, my mouth has been perpetually agape. And although this might be a folly of mine, I typically go to IGN for gaming news. Woe is me.

Aside from tasty game trailers that are free to download and require no membership status, IGN has been abysmal at reporting on Wii developments. Oh, readers are told what's happening, pretty pictures are there but there is essentially no content! When a headline screams Mario multiplayer Explained!!!!, you naturally get excited.

I did, and therefore clicked on the link expecting to be blown away. Instead, there was a straight-up Q&A session with Nintendo Entertainment, Analysis and Development's general manager, Takahashi Tezuka consisting of weak questions and answers sounding as if Mr. Tezuka was the newest Manchurian Candidate.

Yes, Nintendo has a history of being vague. Yes, readers want to know the slightest details. Yes, your excrement will be green if you eat too much spinach! For the love of God, though, don't entice us with headlines promising grand revelations, but end up being a "there's my four-inch article for this hour" kind of space filler.

Ok, I'm done. Here's the link to this compelling piece of gaming journalism that sparked my horrible Puppy breath.

Halo 3. 'Nuff Said.

2006-05-10T11:34:00.000-05:00

So, true to their word Microsoft released a trailer for Halo 3 at E3 yesterday. However, it doesn't really reveal much. All you can really take from it is... a desert level, large scope to the game, and that this may be the last Halo. I also think (hope) that Master Chief has amnesia, and a broken Cortana (whom could be corrupted from all the knowledge that she holds) tries to lure him to the other side while he ventures towards a Halo that is about to be activated and obliterate Earth. That would be an interesting plot, no? Don't take my word for it. What do you think?

Bungie informs us that everything you're seeing is being rendered in real-time on the Xbox 360, using the current version of the Halo 3 game engine.

UPDATE:

Bungie has the E3 Halo 3 announce trailer for download at their website. OR nab them here.

E32K6 ANNOUNCE TRAILER (SMALL .WMV)

E32K6 ANNOUNCE TRAILER (LARGE .WMV)

Bark At The Moon!

2006-05-03T18:08:00.000-05:00

Do you like guitars? Do you like heroes? Well, grab yourself a PS2 and Guitar Hero, and rock hard! That's what I've been doing. This game will keep the PS2 alive for quite sometime. Even after the next gens (Wii, 360, and PS3) are out and ready to consume the consumers. Guitar Hero will still be rawkin' on PS2. This game also includes a little guitar controller with 5 fret buttons, a strum bar, and a whammy bar. However, the best part is the star power! The guitar has a built in tilt sensor, and once you've acquired so much star power, you crank your guitar vertically like a rockstar and pump up the point multiplyer.

This game is however missing a few things, and one of them is an online leaderboard so that you can compare your scores with others around the world. That's why ScoreHero.com is here. Just play your song, upload your stats and compare. This program has some great features too. You can download a ScoreHero spreadsheet and input your scores, and then upload your spreadsheet to the page for multiple score uploads. The only thing this site is missing right now is a "friends" option. I would love to be able to add my friends who play, and compare my scores with just them on a page. If you stop by ScoreHero.com check out me, 3kalb, Gabe, hauz20, and Evan, ONE. Also, if you're one of the fotunates to have Guitar Hero and are posting on ScoreHero.com leave your username in the comments and we'll compare stats, y'all!

While you're here check out this incredible video of this Guitar Hero pwning "Cowboys From Hell" on Expert. Check out his fancy fingerwork and fill your shorts with frothy goodness. This video gets insane towards the latter half of the song.

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Wiiiiiiiiiii

2006-05-01T10:47:00.000-05:00

In case you don't know by now, but I'm sure you do, Nintendo's Revolution is now called Wii, but why? Hmmm... Why indeed? First, the trailer for Wii.

And now what Nintendo officially has to say about their name selection.

"Introducing … Wii.
As in “we.”
While the code-name “Revolution” expressed our direction, Wii represents the answer.
Wii will break down that wall that separates video game players from everybody else.
Wii will put people more in touch with their games … and each other. But you’re probably asking: What does the name mean?
Wii sounds like “we,” which emphasizes this console is for everyone.
Wii can easily be remembered by people around the world, no matter what language they speak. No confusion. No need to abbreviate. Just Wii.
Wii has a distinctive “ii” spelling that symbolizes both the unique controllers and the image of people gathering to play.
And Wii, as a name and a console, brings something revolutionary to the world of video games that sets it apart from the crowd.
So that’s Wii. But now Nintendo needs you.
Because, it’s really not about your or me.
It’s about Wii.
And together, Wii will change everything."

It's cute and clever, eh? Yeah. Whatever it's called, Wii, Mee, Youu, it's still going to kick ass.

In celebration, or subtle defamation, of Nintendo's official name for their new console
YTMND.com has some great pages to offer. Here's a couple of my favorites.

Kramer likes to Wii!

Wii!!! (Gonads and Strife) (refresh?)

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Rube Nintendo Contraption

2006-05-01T01:10:00.000-05:00

You like Rube Goldberg contraptions? You like Nintendo? Then feast your eyes on this dandy piece of work.

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DANCE PARTY HALF-LIFE!

2006-05-01T01:03:00.000-05:00

Got 74 seconds to get down with yo' techno-self?

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A Happy Little Game

2006-04-25T04:17:00.000-05:00

Do I have your attention now? You see that friendly afro'ed artisan up there? Do you see what he is holding? What is that thing? COULD IT BEEEEEEEEEEEEE....... a Nintendo Revolution controller? DING DING DING! That's abso-fucking-lutely right! Now are we to assume that there is a Bob Ross painting game coming out for the Nintendo Revolution that will utilize the fantastical gyroscopical controller? The answer clearly is... maybe. The development team AGFRAG, which the head of team, Joseph Hatcher, sports a huge "afro" for Bob Ross, has yet to seal a deal with any publishers. AGFRAG is also developing the title for Nintendo's DS and for the PC platform. Then you could paint with Bob Ross and not with Microsoft. I for one am heading out to the stores and picking up a giant 'fro in anticipation of this title.

More...
Joystiq: Joy of painting coming to Revolution & DS -- no really, seriously
IGN: Bob Ross Paints on Revolution
NPR: The King of the Canvas, Bob Ross, Returns
Bob Ross Inc.

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What The Fuck Is A Video Game?

2006-04-25T03:59:00.000-05:00

Got 45 minutes to spare? Ok, 46 minutes and 33 seconds. Well then you have just enough time to learn about the history of video games. The Discovery Channel did a special on... the history of video games. Enjoy!

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It's Funny Because It's True

2006-04-20T13:15:00.000-05:00

click image to enlarge

Thank you Dueling Analogs for this insightful look into the lives of PSP owners.

Arrrrggg! Matey!

2006-04-13T15:09:00.000-05:00

For those of you who enjoyed Sid Meier's Pirates! but wanted to immerse yourself deeper into the pirate world, Disney begun development back in April 2005 of a Pirates of the Caribbean MMOG. According to a recent Gamasutra article the game is scheduled for release in 2007 (but with the current reliability of announced release dates I wouldn't put much stock in that) and will be shown at this year's E3. I for one am intrigued but will remain reserved.

This Is No Game. This IS The Revolution.

2006-04-12T17:21:00.000-05:00

I have an update about a couple of titles that have been announced for the Revolution.

One is Ubisoft's Red Steel. A game in which you arm yourself with either a gun or a sword and then proceed to shoot or slash through baddies. Sounds like fun, but only with the Revolution controller! This game actually has a screen shots out. CHECK IT!

The other game is a gothic-esque horror title developed by the Polish team, NIBRIS, entitled Sadness. It takes place before the first World War and will mainly be in black & white. BADASS! No?

The Chin is back!

2006-04-11T18:53:00.000-05:00

Although this post is somewhat peripheral to traditional Puppies fare, I simply had to bring this to our three loyal readers' attention.

Previously unbeknownst to me, Bruce Campbell is currently filming a production where he is mistaken as Ash from the famous cult horror Evil Dead Trilogy and forced to fight actual monsters. Yeah, I know, you're shaking your head and grinning too. Head on over to IMDB for the scant information they have available, and remember to shop Smart, shop S-Mart.

Get Equipped

2006-04-11T04:36:00.002-05:00

SomethingAwful is hosting a library of Megaman weapon equipped mock-up screens. They look great, and the variation in references is spectacular. Everything from music to movies to videogames to drug abuse. Here's a couple of my favorites. Click the pics to make them bigger.

CHECK OUT MORE PICS

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With Full Pouting Lips...

2006-04-11T04:24:00.000-05:00

She's back. The sex symbol that helped redefine videogames, and has been dropping bombs ever since her first game, Lara Croft, is back in Tomb Raider: Legends. She's been harvesting an average 80% from critics across the globe. I'm pretty excited about this title. I have not yet had a chance to play it, but if anyone picks it up please post your insight on the game. As for now, to whet your appetite, check out the trailer...

2006-04-11T01:55:00.000-05:00

I have a problem I have to have a new password every time I log into the blog. Whats up with that? Get back at me with some helpfull advice.

Bow Chicka Oblivion

2006-04-09T14:29:00.000-05:00

They did it. They finally did. They made a topless mod for Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. YESSSSS! Now you can slay those imps with hard nipples shinning like finely buffed plate armour.

Watch Video of Mod HERE (quicktime / media player)

Download Mod HERE

Now Entering Silent Hill (Population: Hell)

2006-04-05T10:01:00.000-05:00

This billboard has risen outside of Sony Studios in Culver City to advertise their newest venture into the videogame comemovie world. April 21st, y'alls! Here's hoping they get it right.

More...
Silent Hill Billboard Thread (IMDB)

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Shaun Of The Dead Tone

2006-04-05T09:32:00.000-05:00

Shaun Of The Dead The Game! ... for cell phones? Yeah, so a UK-based development company is making a FPS for cell phones based off of the famous RomZomCom (Romantic Zombie Comedy.) The game is being designed so that it can casually be played with one hand. The premise is that you are Shawn. You are at the Winchester. You have to defend your friends by whatever means neccesary. That means using weapons such as a winchester shotgun, cricket bat, and vinyl LPs. I honestly have no idea how this game will be, but if you want an amazingly simple and entertaining cell phone game check out Skipping Stone. It's well worth the $5.99 price tag. The premise for Skipping Stone is that you skip a stone as long as you can. You use only the 5 button in this game to keep your stone skipping. It also utilizes the vibration feature of your phone. How cool is that?

More...
Shaun of the Dead Goes Mobile (Joystiq)
Shaun Brings Deadness to Mobiles (GameSetWatch)
I-Play Scoops Chicago Tribune's "Best Cell Phone Game of 2005" with "Skipping Stone"
Skipping Stone Review (Gamespot)

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Draw Me A Halo

2006-04-04T04:16:00.000-05:00

According to Marvel everyone's favorite Covenant killing cyborg is back IN INK! This summer Marvel will be releasing a Halo Graphic Novel (HGN). The HGN will be a 128 page full-color jacketed hardcover book. The book itself is composed of one big story and three side-stories. All the familiar characters, weapons, and environments will be there along with project sketches from the crew of Bungie. The HGN is being solely produced by Bungie, but Marvel is retaining rights to publication and distribution. The HGN also has some of the industries top writers and artists working on the project. (For a comprehensive list check out More...) There are also talks of future Halo comic projects in the works.

More...
HGN (Marvel)
HGN (Bungie)
HGN (Joystiq)

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Who Wants Smacked In The Nuts?

2006-04-03T05:51:00.000-05:00

Who wants to be smacked in the nuts? I know I don't want to be smacked in the nuts,but thats what ya get when your a so called son of a biaatch. I didn't have really anything important to say, just wanted to get your attention, and it worked....HAHHAHHAHHA...HA.... . HA .? Sorry Ass Pole Smokers!
and thats your smack in the nuts.

peace. I'm out.
love Faded

Don't crap in my Sandbox

2006-03-30T14:25:00.000-06:00

Hello all faithful Slutty Puppy devotees. I recently picked up the Godfather for the Xbox (expect a reveiw shortly) and have found myself almost completely addicted to it lately.

However, the purpose of this post isn't to sing the game's praises, but rather, to extrapolate on what I believe is the burgeoning genre of Sandbox games. In that interest, I started a thread on gamefaqs.com in an attempt to spark some discussion on that topic. Enjoy right .... here!

And You Thought You Were Having A Bad Day

2006-03-28T15:13:00.000-06:00

Ok, gang crap your pants for American McGee's latest opus, BAD DAY L.A.!

It's kind of like a hip hop Disaster Report, isn't it?

More...
Bad Day L.A.com

Heartbeats Across The World

2006-03-27T14:13:00.000-06:00

Has anyone seen the Sony Bravia commercial with all the bouncing balls? No? Oh what's that? We have a clip. Check it out.

Now check out this great Battlefield 2 parody.

P.S. If anyone is curious the song playing is Heartbeats by José González.

More...
Bunny Hopping (Wiki)
Bunny Hopping (UK Fortress)

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Bye Bye Katamari!

2006-03-21T03:44:00.000-06:00

Namco's offical Japan website announced that the development team behind the cult hit Katamari Damacy is breaking up. According to an interview in a recent issue of Edge, series creator and director, Keita Takahashi, never wanted Katamari to turn into a franchise. He was told that publisher, Namco, was going to go ahead with sequals whether he was involved or not. He got on board for We Love Katamari, but decided not to take part in the PSP port, Me and My Katamari. Fans, like myself, will be glad to hear that Takahashi is working on a new project albeit without the Katamari gang.

More...
Slashdot article
Gamasutra article

You Got Hack In My 360! You Got 360 In My Hack!

2006-03-21T03:02:00.000-06:00

That's right my friends. The Xbox 360 has been hacked. A group from xboxhacker.net has bypassed the firmware of the 360 to allow it to play burnt copies of games. That's right. No mod chip needed. No hardware alteration needed. Don't believe me? Check out the lame video they made of them playing a burnt disc.

Streaming Video (google)
Download Video (net)
Download Video (torrent)

P.S. Apparently there's a firmware hack for the original Xbox too.

More...
Slashdot article

SHH! It's A Secret

2006-03-12T14:10:00.000-06:00

More VGVVs (Video Game Viral Videos) y'all! This time I found a couple that star our beloved white pantyhosed, sword weilding, elfish/boy/fairie hero, Link.

This one uses clips from the Legend of Zelda cartoon series to create a passable music video for Kayne West's "Gold Digger". Did I say passable? Well, It's... yeah passable. I've seen much better amateur music video attempts in my day, but this one is fairly amusing.

CHECK IT OUT

This next one is a live action adventure of our no pants wearing hero.

CHECK IT OUT

GR:AW esome!!!!

2006-03-10T18:25:00.000-06:00

It only took me about my 3rd match of Team Elimination...the equivalent of Team Slayer in Halo...to realized that my experience with the previous Ghost Recon games would have to be thrown out because this game is a gem. Using a default 3rd person view, you take control of a soldier named Scott Mitchell in a near future war in Mexico City. First I'll start off by saying that the first 2 games dissapointed me. To me, if I have a first person view I want to be able to see my hands and guns. So the lack of that turned me off right away. And I just thought that they were overrated games overall. Now, with the little time that I have spent with the new Ghost Recon: Advanced Warfighter, I have to say that my opinion has shifter 180 degrees. The graphics are stunning, especially on HD. The sound is on key, with bullets whizzing by your head to grenades exploding under your feet, it all keeps you involved. The controls are surprisingly easy to pick up especially considering I'm used to a loosely controlled Halo or Battlefield 2.
Next thing I really noticed was the level design in Multiplayer. I have to admit, I haven't played any single player yet because I am too involved with the Multiplayer which I believe is one of it's selling points. But the levels are very well done from the textures with graphics to the actual layout of different structures. They have a good variety of map types to chose from from a jungle setting to an urban town.
Multiplayer overall is extremely fun. The only things I have to gripe about are the ability to get into a game and not being able to join an already started game. It takes longer than it should to jump in. You have to either go to Quick Match or chose Custom Search. Even doing a Quick Match though, doesn't guarantee that you will be put in a game that hasn't started. I just usually go to Custom Search and it'll find 10 or so games either accepting players or already playing. Now, while you're looking at the games in progress or games accepting, it doesn't auto-refresh so if you try to get into a game that is accepting at one point and it's already started, you have to go back to the Quick Match/Custom Match screen and start over. This can become extremely annoying. Once you're in a game though, the electronice orgasm starts.
Overall this game was very well done and I'm glad they held it back to finish it and tweak some not so strong points. I recommend this to anyone that has a thing for action games, especially those with good multiplayer play also. Now, I just have to wait for that one game to come out by Clancy and the gang...what's it called again? oh yeah...Splinter Cell: Double Agent

Slutty Puppies Score:
5
out of
5

Rockstar: Still making controversial games

2006-03-09T13:11:00.000-06:00

After inciting riots among legislators with games such as GTA III and Manhunt, Rockstar is continuing to ignite scandal. Not content to rest on their laurels as the next-gen consoles laboriously churn out sequel after sequel, these pioneers turned their attention to an orginal idea. An idea that involves mind-bending speed, larger than life characters and table tennis.

Yep, I said table tennis.

The good folks at IGN 360 recently broke the story that Rockstar Studios is making an exclusive table tennis title for the the Xbox 360. Unfortunately, no prostitues or execution-style snuffs will likely be facets of this game. Oh, well. Who doesn't love ping pong? I know I do!

Click here for more information.

The Angriest Halo Player In The World

2006-03-02T12:02:00.000-06:00

Ok. This may be too much video game aggression, but god damn do I hope I get to play against this kid someday. In fact, I probably already have. I give this kid about another year before he dies of a brain aneurysm. Good luck, angry gamer. Keep on "screamin' like a bitch."

WATCH THE VIDEO

Give Me My Chocolate Milk

2006-03-02T10:33:00.000-06:00

Ok, gang, time for some viral video game videos! The VVGVs, y'all! This video is fucking great. How many of you out there hate the 8-12 year olds on xbox live that take their games far too seriously? Don't we all, huh? Well, then sit back and laugh at this kid lose his shoot on his mom because she won't get him some chocolate milk.

P.S. Does anyone know what game this is?

WATCH THE VIDEO

With no contenders Fight Night Round 3 emerges victorious

2006-02-22T00:01:00.000-06:00

In what seems to be an almost obsessive-compulsive problem of mine lately, I purchased yet another EA Sports title for my beloved Xbox. After logging countless hours on Fight Night Round 2, I traversed the dangerous streets and drivers of Springfield today and purchased the originally titled Fight Night Round 3.

This post will be both a review and a comparison of sorts. Upon walking in the door eager to pop the disc in, my phone rang. Brant - who I waited with seven hours for his Xbox full circle - had just purchased FNR3 for his system. After several fights of my own, I took off for his place to revel in Hi-Def blood-letting.

First of all, if there is a title on the 360 worthy of the "next-gen" label, this one is it. Everything about its graphical prowess screams "look at me" like a Paris Hilton outfit. Boxer likenesses are amazing, streams of sweat course down the athletes and the blood flies in captivating arcs through the air. Trying to explain the beauty of this game in mere words is akin to capturing the majesty of the Grand Canyon though crappy Polaroids. It simply cannot be done. This is where the 360 version shines, but for those poor (and I mean penniless) souls with a regular box, everything else is virtually identical.

With that written, on to the true review of, essentially, both titles.

Those who have played FNR2 will pick things up quickly enough, as very little has changed. Punches are still controlled with the right analog stick, but some balancing has been made. Gone are the days of plodding around the ring with a Haymaker cocked dangerously. It can still be done, but a single jab will wipe that animation off an opponent. It is a welcome change. Real boxers don't trade power punches like baseball cards so why should virtual pugilists?

Jabs are now much more potent and effective weapons as a result. Haymakers have been slowed dramatically, but do slightly more damage in this iteration. This makes for a more realistic fight where jabs and hooks are again valued tools.

In addition to the Haymakers, there are two new power punches added to the mix. The Flash KO and the Stun punches require more stick movement than the Haymakers and, of course, are more telling. Opponents have ample time to interrupt these punches, but woe to those who don't. The Stun punch switches the viewpoint to a first person perspective of the boxer nailed. Looking at yourself through your opponent is fun, challenging and visceral as you attempt to knock his ass out. The Flash KO simply triggers the "slo-mo" when a couple good punches can floor a rival.

The Cut-Man system has been altered. First introduced in FNR2, this feature allowed you to manually clean up swelling and cuts of your fighter. Instead of four quadrants requiring a sweeping motion of the right stick, there are only two. It seems dumbed down, and the onscreen prompts are somewhat confusing and plain. Sticking a swab in my boxer's open wound just isn't as much fun any more.

Game modes are essentially unchanged, though. There is still Hard Hits, where 15 rounds are fought, and knockdowns declare the winner. Simple exhibition fights are present, as is the obligatory online mode. Also, a career is present, but this is where FNR3 seems to take a step backwards.

Gone is the ranking system. In its place is a simple popularity meter that determines your fanfare and climb to a title bout. It's weak, crude and seemingly an easy out for developers. Nonetheless, it is still a joy to pummel opponents with your created boxer or an established puncher. A new "Rival" system has also been implemented into the Career, but all it amounts to is the ring announcer saying the guys in the ring really don't like each other. Again, this is weak and seems like pure propaganda for advertisements and the back of the box.

EA Trax is naturally present, and it is the same mix of inconspicuous rap drivel. Nothing here will make your ears bleed, but you won't run to I-Tunes to download the songs. Bone-crunching punches still sound brutal, the ring announcer still sounds slightly challenged and your trainers still sound like they wish they could be Mickey. All said, the sound gets the job done.

The replay value of Fight Night Round 3 is boundless. Although online play has some latency issues still unresolved from last year, it can be enjoyed if one can fight through it (weak pun, I know). The true beauty of this game is decimating your friends sitting right next to you. Many a Busch Lights have been drunk in nights of boxing. This title will continue that tradition.

So unless you, dear reader, have an extreme abhorrence toward violence, pick this title up immediately. The analog boxing remains the only true way to box on consoles, and while some features have been changed from Round 2, this game manages to improve upon its predecessors. The improved punching system takes the cake here with its balanced brutality.

Xbox Score: four and a half Slutty Puppies
Xbox 360 Score: FIVE Slutty Puppies. The visuals simply make it more engaging. If you have a 360 there is no choice as to which version to get.

WTF?

2006-02-06T14:03:00.000-06:00

I want to sincerely apologize to Wonderboy. I was reading posts on the blog, and adding comments. I went to add a comment to your post and it just disappeared. I have been having alot of problems with blogger lately. My personal blog is about fucked up beyond recognition. I'm sorry.

I would like to hear more about Call of Duty 2 on the 360 though. I've been playing it on my kick ass pc, and so far it looks great. There are some new added features, but overall it's just more Call of Duty kick-assery.

Your thoughts?

Down and Out In Deep 13

2006-02-03T14:52:00.000-06:00

3kalb's Games of 2k5

0.1 Resident Evil 4 (D:Capcom P:Capcom)

0.2 God of War (D: Sony Computer Entertainment P: SCE Studios Santa Monica)

0.3 Burnout Revenge (D: Criterion Games P: Electronic Arts)

0.4 Indigo Prophecy (D: Quantic Dream P: Atari)

0.5 Psychonauts (D: Double Fine Prod. P: Majesco Games)

0.6 F.E.A.R. (D: Monolith P: VU Games)

0.7 Shadow of the Colossus (D: SCEI P: SCEA)

0.8 Guitar Hero (D: Harmonix Music P: RedOcatane)

0.9 Genji: Dawn of the Samurai (D: Game Republic P: SCEA)

1.0 Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks (D: Midway Studios L.A. P: Midway)

1.1 Trauma Center: Under the Knife (D: Atlus Co. P: Atlus Co.)

1.2 Evil Dead: Regeneration (D: Cranky Pants Games P: THQ)

1.3 Call of Duty 2 (D: Infinity Ward P: Activision)

Ramblings from 3kalbia Mirror

X-Box 360: Full-circle and a stutter-step

2006-01-30T19:06:00.000-06:00

After waiting in a Target parking lot for eight hours so that a friend could purchse an X360 on its release date, I eagerly awaited plugging the ivory powerhouse in so that I could take in its full splendor. Alas, I was disappointed. I remain so thus far, almost two months after that day.

This friend had Perfect Dark Zero (looked great), Need for Speed: Most Wanted (looked great) and Halo 2 (looked like jaggy poo without Live and an update.) Since then he has picked up Condemned (looked great), Dead or Alive 4 (looked great) and NHL 2K6 (looked great.)

You might notice a common theme here: all the games on the 360 look spectacular. Textures, lighting effects, shading, animation, essentially the whole kit-and-kaboodle are breathtaking. What isn't heart-stopping, however, is the quality and gameplay supposedly accompanying those visuals.

PDZ was yet another uninspired FPS, coming far from standing up to the original on N64. NFS: MW had excellent racing but the extra 10 bucks and the HD TV essentially needed to truly appreciate it are out of the question. I can play it on the regular old box and still enjoy it. DOA 4 was more of the same. Team Ninja boasts of a reworked counter system, but it was still finding your power move and pummeling pugelists with bouncy breasts. Condemned had the most to offer with an interesting story line and visceral melee combat, but the game still felt dumbed down and barely worthy of being called next-gen.

Don't get me wrong; I love my X-box and the countless hours I've spent on it. I also started loving it two years after it was released and there was a decent library of games. The 360 will likely follow the same route for me. Programmers have neither been given enough time nor the initiative for unlocking this system's true potential. A reliance on sequels and franchises has already stunted its growth like so much coffee fed to a nine-year old. Here's hoping everyone can see past lush visuals and into what really got most of us hooked on gaming. Fun and originality. Good luck Billy-Boy.

When the Revolution comes, you're gonna need it.

Ha ha ha!

2006-01-25T17:36:00.000-06:00

Get a load of this article. That has got to be the funniest damn thing I've read in quite some time. I still can't believe that guy is serious.

MVP 06 NCAA Baseball or: EA can thank Nintendo for analog sticks

2006-01-22T16:20:00.000-06:00

When Electronic Arts lost the Major League Baseball license to 2K Sports (likely because EA monopolized the NFL license) a shudder went through many fans of EA's recently reinvigorated MVP series of baseball games. MVP 04 and 05 were excellent sports titles that were fun to play for both die-hard and casual fans of America's favorite pastime.

So when it came to light EA had not given up on this franchise, many rejoiced ... and then scratched their heads over the choice to continue it with college baseball. Aluminum bats? Virtual unknowns in a college sport not particularly lauded on television or even print media? Fortunately, EA can still work some magic (at least in the majority of its sports titles) and countered those qualms with a new swinging mechanic reminiscent of Tiger Woods.

That's right, you now hit with the right analog stick. Pull back at the opportune moment and push up to crack the ball. Of course, it takes a lot of time to get used to, but cranking a homer gives a person an almost obscene amount of satisfaction, akin to smacking a 375-yard drive on Tiger or landing a vicious haymaker on Fight Night. There is no comparison. Of course, controls can be changed to use the "classic" swinging for old-timers refusing to change.

The "Load and Fire" batting is easily the best part of this game. It makes playing games both a joy and a pain in the arse, but like the best games, no matter how poorly you might do, it keeps reeling you in.

As for other favorable aspects of the game, EA performed the usual job, shipping the title replete with dynasty, tournament and creative options. The Dynasty is comprehensive and enjoyable, with recruiting being a heavy aspect. Weekly recruiting points are assigned and it is up to the player to manage them wisely, going after young guns in high school and JUCO. As your chosen team progresses (and there are roughly 150 to choose from, with a create-a-team option for schools that didn't make the cut) recruiting options improve and better players can be enticed.

The graphics are decent with good animations and beautiful fields. Unfortunately, since the NCAA does not allow college athletes to be paid, the player likenesses are all very similar and real names are not used. They can be edited, of course, but it is very time consuming. Unfortunately, there are some frame rate issues at times that pull you out of the game, albeit only briefly.

The sound is great, with the aluminum "plinks" reproduced accurately. Fan noise is noticeably absent and the commentary can get repetitive at times, but the game does a good job with the sounds of college baseball.

Replayability all depends on the person playing the game. The dynasty could easily take a huge chunk of time and offline multiplayer is a blast, allowing up to four people to compete with and against each other. Fielding, batting and pitching duties can toggled between players with a switch of a button. Online play is naturally included, and unlike Halo 2, most of the players aren't 14-year old Good Ole' Boys from the deep south who stumbled upon high-speed internet.

At $30, MVP 06 NCAA Baseball is a great, anacronym-filled game that is well worth a look. The batting system alone is worth a look, and if you abhor college ball, 2K sports will soon be releasing their pro game. Check this one out though, as you likely won't regret it.

Rating: four our of five Slutty Puppies

P.S. Any additional questions about the game will be answered promptly. Just leave a comment.

and the wait has ceased....

2005-12-26T10:12:00.000-06:00

After a long awaited 6 months after I reserved my Xbox 360 at Gamespot. When November 22nd rolled around I was told that I would have to wait til mine came in...well that time came! I've had a little over a week to play Madden, NFS:MW, Perfect Dark Zero, and NBA 2K6 and Halo 2 from original xbox. I am impressed with all of these titles so far. Madden has taken a big leap in graphics, but had sacrificed game features that made the game great so it still has some improving. NFS graphics look really good and the lighting and environments are incredibly detailed. PDZ has been incredibly fun. Although I have only played about 10 min of the single player I have spent many hours already logged on and playing it on Live. I just bought NBA 2K6 today and the graphics are a big step up, but the gameplay is pretty much exactly the same as it's previous generation. I honestly have to say that the textures look better in Halo 2 on the 360 too and I can play online now. I will be recieving Call of Duty 2 from Billy Sastard later today and if the rest of the game is like the demo....WOW. I'll fill ya in on how it plays later.

Peace nunjas

What is your quest?

2005-12-21T03:32:00.000-06:00

So, I was tooling around on the net and I came across this pointless little quiz. I figured if you had some time to kill (Get it? Halo. Kill. No?) you could go through the torturous gauntlet of probably about 12 questions and figure out what kind of Halo player you are according to a complex algorithm laid down by most likely a 12 y/o quizmaker.

3kalb Is A Decent Player

What type of Halo 2 Player are you? v1.2
brought to you by Quizilla

Marco!

2005-12-13T14:34:00.000-06:00

I agree with the Wonderboy. Where have all the poster boys gone?

I apologize for my lack of posts as of lately. Ever since Dia de la Turkey I've been busy with holiday madness/ Finals lunacy. I actually I have a few posts written down in my notebook, but haven't had to time to post them. I'll be getting on that soon.

As for everyone else, what's your frickin' problem, man?

- hugs & kisses, 3kalb

a good start...

2005-12-12T16:06:00.000-06:00

I think this is a good site to refer to in order to get started on creating something....and by the way, you people need to post more....been a while for all of us

http://www.downloadsquad.com/2005/11/28/how-to-create-your-own-game-company-part-one/

Happy Birthday!

2005-11-09T18:31:00.000-06:00

Happy birthday Halo 2!

Save Me Jeebus

2005-11-07T12:05:00.000-06:00

Well here you have it. I typed something. Huzzah! Now get me that damn butterfinger before it gets ugly in this bitch...

Don't mess with something so good

2005-11-05T21:00:00.000-06:00

I recently read something that states that the people from Blizzard are making a new Diablo. I was a huge fan of the first 2. Some of the most original and addictive gameplay to date came with Diablo 2. Now ever since Everquest came out, I have had no love for MMO's. I think playing a game with no end is pointless. And on top of that...having to pay to play it every month. Rumor is that they are going to make Diablo 3 into an MMO. My question to them and everyone else is...why tamper with the goods?

Next-Gen Jitters

2005-11-05T12:58:00.000-06:00

17 days. I'm sure you all realize that that's how many days until the acclaimed Xbox 360 launches here in the US. I recently put some more money on my already high reservation account at the nearest Gamestop. Found out that I am on the second shipment as opposed to the first and I was extremely bummed out. To find out that I might actually have to wait that much longer to continue my life or lack there of as a gamer was incredibly unsettling. I haven't felt this way since I found out the Prince was no longer around. But, like Prince, I'm hoping that that second shipment will come sooner than later and satisfy my need as The Artist Formally Known As did.

Microsoft sells out

2005-11-03T15:05:00.000-06:00

The Xbox 360 will sell out on it's launch. It will. Microsoft has seen to it. They have scheduled a limited console supply for the release date. In turn they will get all this "great" press exclaiming how well the Xbox 360 is doing because it's selling out everywhere.

Norwegian stores have been asked by Microsoft to sign an agreement assuring that they WILL sell out. Target is only being issued 10 to 50 consoles, and Best Buy is only being issued 20-60 consoles with more arriving "later in the week."

Hail Bill.

Physics and you

2005-10-27T19:16:00.000-05:00

Here it is. The first consumer level physics card. Ageia has been working on the PhysX card since 2002. This is the first engine and processor card dedicated to dynamic physics-based realities in a gameworld.

Key features of the card are...

Stable, high-performance solver
First and only multiprocessing physics API
PC and console support
Works alongside and is compatible with other game engines
Supports vehicles, rag dolls, and character controllers
Integrates with any renderer
Full complement of code samples and tutorials
World-class developer support and custom solutions

And the card provides radical acceleration of...

Universal collision detection
Finite element analysis
Soft body dynamics
Fluid dynamics
Hair simulation
Clothing simulation

According to an interview on Attack the Show the card will be out by the end of the year. However, it comes with a heavy price tag of $250- $300.

Taking games to a whole new level

2005-10-27T16:38:00.000-05:00

Welcome to Valhalla.

A training facility and shooting club with die-hard dedication to it's clients. They've trained marines, seals, and many more military personnel. Recently, Attack of the Show's Brendan Moran visited Valhalla and they set up a FPS run for him in the Scenerio House. They had all sorts of locales: convienent store, flashing Doom-esque hallway, cockpit of a jumbo jet. All vaguely reminiscent of popular locations for FPS games. He was given live ammo, because that's what they do, and then they sent him through with a small arsenal to take out the baddies and save the innocents. I unfortunately can't find any video of this, but it was pretty impressive.

If you've got the cash and you're looking to play real FPS then take a trip to Valhalla.

Ramblings from 3kalbia Mirror

Where do we take this now?

2005-10-27T15:40:00.000-05:00

From yesterdays Atari, to tommorows next gen systems video games have changed right along with it. From turn based battle systems to real time in rpg's, from 3rd person shooters to first person to both 3rd and 1st used in the same game, from 2d enviornments to 3d enviornments, from text to voice to voice overs along with the text.

Where the hell do we go from here! Every game that is made now falls into a category of something that has been done before but how can we break this cycle, do we WANT to break this cycle and finally CAN we break it. Technology is moving faster than ever and it seems nothing can stop our upward climb to the ultimate technology what ever that may be, A.I. or our ultimate demise where computers take up the space of a football field and are no more powerful than today's calculators. Personally, I want the next step.

But what could console's and pc's of the future bring to us. With the help of VR will we be playing games outside and computer images be added to our exsisting enviornment? Will Socom 12, for example, in the year 2078 be played in the jungle and televised over the internet or pay per view? Will we be part of the game literally and just you know - NOT DIE.

The truth is i have no idea what the hell will happen but if we do play Socom12 outside for real in 20 years it will still fall under the pattern of 1st person shooter but will be tillerated because i just killed my neighbor with a sniper rifle from 150 yards. So whatever will be in the future of gaming millions are ready.

I'll put a cap in yo ass... a Mountain Dew cap

2005-10-27T06:27:00.000-05:00

So, I just spent the last hour and half watching Garden State on HBO and entering about 220 Pepsi/Mountain Dew caps in for Mountain Dew's Xbox 360 promotion. I think my chances are pretty good. They have a drawing every 10 minutes until October 31st @ 11:50 PM. I entered them all into one drawing that, at the time, had 35 entries. So now it has about 250 entries, and 220 of them are mine. I'm not saying I'm going to win. However, I have been working awfully hard to get these caps. I've asked co-workers to set them aside, people that frequent work, my mom, and the biggest contributor besides myself has been my girlfriend. She's been gathering them from all of her friends. They all drink at least 1 Mountain Dew a day so it's definitely been adding up. I'll keep everyone posted on the results when they come in.

Do the Dew or live a healthy life without caffiene laced syrup!

Ramblings from 3kablia Mirror

Street Fightin' Man

2005-10-24T07:54:00.000-05:00

I'm sure everyone has heard the rumors of a Halo character being an unlockable in the upcoming Dead Or Alive 4 game. No? You haven't. Well, it's true. There will be a character from the Halo-verse hiding away, waiting to be unlocked in DOA4.

When Bungie announced this they were all hush hush, and wanted to get the rumor mill started with the fans, but the character has been revealed. She (that's right SHE) isn't Cortana, and she isn't a marine. She is in fact Spartan-458, a female Spartan. She has the exact same armour as Master Chief, except there's a girl under there. Maybe one of her winning animations will pay homage to Metroid.

They claim that she flows naturally in the game. Bungie worked alongside Team Ninja to keep her true to form. Bungie also claims that even without a weapon Spartan-458's ass-kickery is very high.

Two images have been leaked onto the net. They are screenshots from a British game mag. Check them out and tell us your thoughts on Spartan-458

Screenshot 1
Screenshot 2

In other Bungie news, to this date they have banned 53,982 accounts, and there are about 662 active temporary suspensions at the time of this post. That's alot of jerks. Bungie claims there aren't enough banhammers dropping. Here's an idea for all you 12 y/o's out there. Stop using Halo as your refuge to get back at all the kids who poke fun of you at school. That's your problem, not mine. So, don't fuck up my good time.

Somebody Save Me

2005-10-19T15:34:00.000-05:00

Ok, Ok. It's been awhile since a post so I thought I'd change that. I just got back from town and I picked up Shadow of the Colossus, and F.E.A.R. (Super Fun Happy Director DVD Cut Edition Special Widescreen Version.) I also got Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks for the xbox in from Gamefly. I've given MK:SM some play alongside Evan a.k.a. Liu Kang. From what I played I enjoyed it. Massive blood. So far this game has me more excited about Mortal Kombat than ever before, and I hate the franchise. (Street Fighter was a much better game.)

I'm not sure how much time I'll have for gaming over the next few weeks because my mom just got back from surgery (hysterectomy.) She'll be unable to do anything for about a week. So, I'll be on overtime with house duties, and with a broken dish washer that's going to eat away some time.

As soon as I get a chance I'm going to break into Shadow and F.E.A.R. though, and give MK:SM some more playtime before concluding that it's officially Kick-ass. (I spelled kick-ass with a K, just like Mortal Kombat.)

In Halo news, I played some Halo 2 the other night. First time in weeks, or so it feels like it. Double0Bogart just got his internet back after the big move back to Ohio, and we (Owl Stretcher (a.k.a. Huge McLarge), Faded Joker, and myself) celebrated the only way we know how... HARDCORE CREEK PARTY!

Which brings me to the new Hardcore playlist. WTF? It's filled with dicks (people with too much time dedicated to Halo.) They know their shit. I'll give them that, but unless you're on your game and very competitive, which I'm neither most of the time, then Hardcore isn't where the party's at. (IT'S IN THE CREEK!) Most of the Hardcore games I played were spent consistently shouting, "HARDCORE! HARDCORE! HARDCORE!"

Well, I'm out.

P.S. Anyone else out there got some gaming goodness to share?

Then again some legends were meant to be forgotten

2005-10-12T05:44:00.000-05:00

X-Men Legends II: Rise of Apocalypse

Pub: Activision
Dev: Raven Software

- The camera angle is too far away to give the player any real sense of action.
- The menu screen is flawfully designed w/ bold yellows that mask the white text. Meanwhile there is no consistency in navigation buttons. Sometimes they'll be on the bottom, sometimes the side, and sometimes not even present at all. wtf?
- The game's bird's eye view action is also cut short when characters constantly level up requiring the player to distribute skill & attribute points. The players level up too easily and too often. The game comes off as patronizing the player by rewarding them with levels for taking 20 steps in any direction.
- Cell shading? It looks as if the developers took 2nd rate skins and dipped them in a candy glaze. This style makes the game come off as some sort of saturday morning cartoon, and with the loads of obscure AND colorful characters they have added it seems that way twice as much. Any hardcore fan playing this game, and trust me they're the only ones that are, don't want to see the cartoon X-Men. No one does.
+ Content? There are an ungodly amount of unlockables ranging from videos to the cliched comic book covers. Both of which are unlocked by finding them throughout the game. What is this Tony Hawk's X-men? There is also a trivia game based on the comic books. Getting answers right earns you experiance points for the team. Flex those comic engraved neurons!
+ Monotonus gameplay. I, more than often, found myself running up to enemies & disposing them with continuous AAB combos. Run, AAB, run, AAB, run some more, AAB, level, rinse, repeat. Occasionally, I'd use a mutant power to spice things up, but I never found it all that necessary to advance in the game.
+ Patrick Stewart! 'nuff said. He lends his voice for Professor Xavier.
+ An online co-op play of up to 4 players. That's pretty damn cool. Actually, I've been wanting this in games for awhile now. It's just a shame that this game had to suck.

Bottom Line

It's a dungeon crawler with X-Men, and enough micro-management to choke a donkey. I don't think this game deserves the $49.99 pricetag that is attached to it. I could understand a $39.99 tag, but only because of the uncannily massive amount of content in the game. However, even $40 is too much for me to pay for this X-Pile. If you're a fan of the first one then you'll probably like the 2nd one, you poor sap.

2/5

Smiling in the shadows

2005-09-30T23:39:00.000-05:00

Ok, so last night I picked up the demo for Shadow of the Colossus, and myself and Alana came home and I got a chance to play it. My first play through left me disoriented to the new gameplay. I had to fiddle with the options as always. You know, inverting controls here and there. After tweaking the options I was soon galloping about. Speaking of galloping controlling the horse is amazing. It feels like an actual beast with weight and inertia. The X button is used to spur the horse and the left and right on the stick pull on the reigns. The sword, one of two weapons the bow being the other, is used to identify your destination. When raised into the sun the reflection will focus on the right path while you move it around.

After riding through the field and climbing up a cliff I soon encountered the meat of the demo... a colossus. The sword is used to identify the weak spots of the colossus in the same way it is used to determine the path to follow. The colossus itself was huge... HUGE. It truly lives up to its name. After about 20 minutes of running around in circles, and finding weakspots, and trying to determine the best course of action to tackle this thing I discovered the best path is up the foot. So, I started climbing, and stabbing, and climbing, and stabbing. I eventually got to the head and took down the massive creature. After the black arterial spray and the creature crumbled to the ground, these huge black snakes of energy swirled about in the air and soon shot through me, and BAMF end of demo.

The demo was good. The game will be incredible. I'd say in a whole it took me about 1/2 hour to determine how to take down the colossus and accomplish that task. There are supposed to be 16 colossuses (colossi?). I can only hope that they get more challenging as you progress through the game, because as a whole this one wasn't too hard to tackle.

Until the game is released...

...only The Shadow knows

Standing in the shadow of destiny...

2005-09-29T10:37:00.000-05:00

Last night I was informed by the Nate that the new OPM has a demo for Shadow of the Colossus. He told me it was AMAZING! This kid was hating the game before he played the demo. So, now I'm really intrigued. I am going into to town to pick it up today so more will be posted once I play it.

Return to sender

2005-09-18T08:35:00.000-05:00

I came across a helpful website for anyone interested in delving into the world of video game rental services. I personally use GameFly, but lately I haven't been pleased with their services. Their selection isn't the greatest, and they always blow their horns that they will have all the new releases in stock, and they never do. I usually end up having to wait a couple of weeks to finally play a new release. Plus their shipping time needs to be cut drastically. Waiting a week to receive a game is getting out of hand. ALSO, does anyone else hate the GameFly commercials that are overdone on G4TV? Anywho, this website by TopTenReviews.com gives a detailed analysis of current video game rental servies out there and what they consider to be the best. GameFly made #5. Go figure. As of right now GameLender seems to be in the lead and I may be switching over to it soon.

Read the reviews and decide for yourself.

Gunning for the west

2005-09-18T08:28:00.000-05:00

I have been highly anticipating this game ever since I read a preview about it a month ago in Edge magazine. I discovered that GameTrailers.com has some trailers for GUN.

CHECK THEM OUT

...and tell me what you're impressions are.

The Revolution is coming! by Nintendo

2005-09-18T07:29:00.000-05:00

Ok, GameTrailers.com has a preview video of the Nintendo Revolution controller. Now, up until now I didn't consider the Revolution to be a contender in the next-gen wars. I figured the fanboys would eat it up and pay an assload of cash for roms of their favorite classics while us computer freaks would already have them downloaded from years ago. However, now I am officially excited to see what the Revolution can do. If it promises what it implies in the trailer then the Revolution may very well revolutionize the way we play games. My official statement as of right now, having just viewed the trailer, is "I don't consider the Revolution to be fanboy fluff, and I am aching to see some games fully utilize the pontential of this incredible piece of hardware."

VIEW TRAILER NOW
...and then change your pants

F.U.B.U.

2005-09-17T07:25:00.000-05:00

So, I was perusing GameTrailers.com earlier and came across a few fan-made gems that I thought I might share with everyone.

Lord of the Halo 2 - Halo/Halo 2

Parody - Final Fantasy VII

Tribute - Prince of Persia

Faint Remix 2 - Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children

There you go, kiddies. Enjoy.

We'll get medieval on your Violent Games Act!

2005-09-15T17:14:00.000-05:00

ESA (Entertainment Software Association) to take a stand against violence. Well, the Violent Games Act anyway.

BOO MICHIGAN!

P.S. FUCK YOU ROD! YOU AND YOUR "SAFE" GAMES!

3kalbia Mirror

Be an angel with Halo

2005-09-14T18:19:00.000-05:00

We all know about the devastation that Hurricane Katie caused down in Louisville. Well, instead of sitting around playing Halo and doing nothing, I've decided to do something. And so, with the click of a button, I bought a T-shirt. Not just any T-shirt mind you, but a Halo "Fight the Flood" T-shirt.

That's right, gang. Halo gamers are uniting to bring hurricane relief to the victims and to collect limited edition swag, in the form of a T-shirt. My brother and I have already ordered ours. The price tag on this bad boy is $20. However, $15 of that goes straight to Red Cross for hurricane relief.

As of September 9th Bungie has raised $120,450 in relief money from the T-shirts. I find this is a shining example of what the gaming community can offer. Not only do we like to kill each other for sport, but in the face of true disastor we can help out as well.

BUY YOURS TODAY!

3kalbia Mirror

Stacked for Ekalb

2005-09-13T01:05:00.000-05:00

Ekalb left a comment about my Stacked post: Will it have online play? You bet your sweet bippy it will. World Series of Poker recently came out and got panned by almost every video game critic in the civilized world. I beg of everyone who is too cheap to play real poker for money: wait for Stacked and see what it has to offer. So help me God, I haven't been this excited for a video game since I found Street Fighter Two nestled in the branches of a faux Christmas Tree when I was 12 years old. I'm not often one to believe in simple previews of games, but Stacked sounds like the real deal.

Something for you Squares out there

2005-09-12T05:57:00.000-05:00

Can't get enough FFVII? Well to prime all of you for the onslaught of the revival of FFVII with Advent Children and Dirge of Cerberus I found this gem at Megagames. It's an old school RPG in the vein of SNES with it's top down camera. It's Final Fantasy VII: The Dark Cloud.

FFVII: The Dark Cloud

Description:

" Final Fantasy VII:The Dark Cloud takes place two years after the much loved Playstation game. Cloud Strife has left his teammates and has shut himself off from the outside world. It seems that even though Sephiroth, the legenadery soldier was defeated, Cloud is still plagued with nightmares and visions of his former enemy.

But across the other side of the planet his former teammates decide to try and find Cloud and question him about his abrupt departure. But are the nightmares of Sephiroth just dreams, illusions or are they something more sinister? Was Sephiroth realy destroyed back in the crater? And what is the Dark Cloud?"

- Megagames

So, there you have it. It's freeware, gang. Download it! Play it! Comment on it! No, seriously. Tell me what your thoughts are, or better yet send them to creators too.

Stacked

2005-09-02T02:08:00.000-05:00

Looking at the title of this post, one might think it will be about something lascivious. Nope, sorry. Go to Llama's webpage for that stuff.

Like poker? Like sitting on your ass with a beer in your hand and your head lost in a swirl of cigarette smoke? Don't like shelling out $10 so some strange Asian girl you've never met can deduce all the odds she has a better hand than you, and knocking you out of a home game within five minutes? Didn't think so.

Stacked (with poster boy Daniel Negraneu, or something like that) is a new poker title coming to x-box, pc and ps2 sometime in September. Boasting an AI poker engine called Poki - which is being touted as the most intelligent poker engine ever created - Stacked is shaping up to be the first poker video game to actually improve your skills. To be honest, the fine folks over at IGN have done a far better job of describing this interesting title in detail (and they get paid to do it...while I don't) so go check it out at www.ignxbox.com

C n I ge a Ha o? Any ne?

2005-08-25T01:31:00.000-05:00

Ok, so last earlier tonight Hauz, Llama, Joker and myself all got online to do some Halo. Our old buddy Scott, HP, joined us too. This is the first time we have all been able to play together. Unfortunately, it wasn't a good experience.

First of all Hauz just got his internet hooked up in his apartment and he was lagging something awful. He kept cutting in and out during everything he said and as for watching him on the screen, well, he was all over the place, literally. Then another problem was that there was 5 of us. Now, i'm not a huge fan of Rumble sessions, but we did a couple of those. Needless to say I didn't enjoy myself that much. The two Team Slayer games I played beforehand that were filled with jerkmos didn't help my disposition towards Halo either. Every asshole and their sister's boyfriend was on tonight. It made for some very unpleasant gaming, and almost drove me absolutely insane.

That's that. Also, I would like to give some honorable mentions to some Halo players out there.

double0bogart and G Flow. You guys are some great players. Easy to get along with, and aren't obsessed with rank and cursing everyone out like too many halo players are. If you see them around say YO!

No F.E.A.R.

2005-08-25T01:00:00.000-05:00

So, I did it. I bought parts to upgrade my computer. I've been working hard all summer long to afford parts to upgrade my 2ndary computer, but instead have to decided to put in some extra cash and upgrade my primary.

My previous post lists my old specs. Here's a list of the new parts I bought.

EvGa nForce 4 SLI mainboard
AMD Athlon 64 3500+, socket 939
EvGa Nvdia GeForce FX 7800 GT, 256MB DDR3, PCI-E 16X
Kingwin cpu fan
Lite-On DVD-R/W
Logitech Webcam

All my hard work this summer is right there. It should definitely kick some ass. I'll be kicking F.E.A.R.'s ass in no time. On top of that I'll be able to show up Far Cry, Half-Life 2, and Doom 3 as well.

I F.E.A.R. for the worst

2005-08-24T14:00:00.000-05:00

So, I reserved a copy of F.E.A.R. a few weeks ago. A couple of days ago the demo came out. So, I downloaded it. Now I have a fairly decent machine.

AMD Athlon 64 3400+
MSI VIA K8T800 chipset K8T Neo-FISR2 mobo
Nvidia GeForce4 Ti 4200 AGP 8X 128MB DDR
1 GB DDR (400) ram

Now, F.E.A.R. runs on the Unreal Engine 3, the same engine that powers Gears of War for the 360, I was expecting to be able to run the demo with medium performance, but NO! I can't even get the damned thing to start. It'll play through the opening movie, and then once it starts my system freezes and I have to CTRL+ALT+DEL to close the demo. GRRRR! It comes out in October and I can't even run the demo. WTF?

So, I've been saving up cash all summer to buy parts to fix my 2ndary computer. However, since F.E.A.R. has put it to my computer I've decided to ditch the 2ndary parts and concentrate on upgrading my primary. I've been looking at getting a new mobo that supports PCI Express and SLI and buying a kick ass new video card, possibly a GeForce 7800 GTX, in hopes that somewhere down the road I could add another of the same caliber for enhanced performance.

I've been looking at the parts, but I have butterflies about buying it all.

Guess Who's Coming to Dinner?

2005-08-22T14:33:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the blog, Owl. About damned time.

I've Got That Classic Feeling

2005-08-22T08:53:00.000-05:00

Remember when arcades were all the rage? Neither do I! I was too young! But I do remember playing many arcade games. Just the other day Hauz20 and I were bored at work so we hopped onto a site some of you may have heard of called E-bay. Soon enough we found an old 1943: The Battle of Midway arcade cabinet for only 250 simoleons. We went halfsies on it and within a week made the one and a half hour trek to pick it up. It is now sitting happily in Ekalb's shed enjoying some well-deserved attention.

Pictures coming soon!

P.S. The high score is currently 522,850 by me, baby, me!

Got game?

2005-08-16T14:35:00.000-05:00

Guess what, gang? I just won a bid for Gitaroo Man on ebay. $54! Practically a steal for what it's averages. So, today I've decided to put up a list of games that I plan on purchasing. Would love to hear your opinions on them.

Kingdom Hearts 1 & 2 - PS2
Viewtiful Joe - PS2
Mr. Mosquito - PS2
Okami - PS2
We Love Katamari - PS2
Siren - PS2
Resident Evil 4 - GC
Pikmin 2 - GC
A Dog's Life - PS2
Play2 - PS2
Shadow of the Colossus - PS2
Killer 7 - PS2
Parappa the Rapper 2 - PS2
F.E.A.R. - PC
Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion - PC
Amplitude - PS2
Spore - PC
Burnout: Revenge - xbox
Gun - PC

So, what am I missing?

Arrghh! Me first post be borne!

2005-07-15T17:16:00.000-05:00

Well, seeing as how I'm a contributor to this blog and I haven't contributed a damn thing I figured it was time. At the moment, the only thing I care to comment on is video games. My newest acquisition is a gem of a game called Sid Meier's Pirates! (Yes, the exclamation point is part of the game's title).

Pirates! has actually been around in various forms since the early days of computer gaming. Although I never played any of those iterations, I did have fond memories of a Sega Genesis version. Upon hearing an X-Box version was being released my fanboy goodies scrunched in anticipation. I was not disappointed. Living the life of a pirate is thoroughly addictive.

The story behind Pirates! is rather patchy. You start off as a young lad whose entire family is taken by an evil count and scattered throughout the Caribbean to apparently do nothing but sit in a tiny log cabin and await your saving face. To find your family members and take your revenge you must complete myriad tasks such as marrying a governor's daughter (who can be anywhere from Pam Anderson proportions to looking like that frightening she-thing in your creative writing course), capturing some of the most fearsome pirates on the seas, and far simpler goals of talking to a certain barmaid in a tiny port out in BFE.

Although that is the main storyline and goal set, the real draw of this game is all the other ruffian activities you can engage in. Sworn your allegiance to the Spanish but see a treasure ship just begging to be sacked? Go for it. You might lose some rank, but you can always take up with the French. After all, they hate everybody. Want to spend your days as a peaceful merchant amassing unforseen amounts of wealth simply through shrewd trading? You can do that too. Would you like to be a steadfast Dutch pirate taking out all the enemies they might have? Once again, the choice is yours. This game is completely open-ended.

There is far too much that could be written about this fantastic time-waster but I have to drop come colored kids off at the pool. Hauz signing off.

Oh My God of War Is Awesome!

2005-06-16T13:51:00.000-05:00

1st Impressions

God of War

Oh thank you Gamefly for finally getting a copy of God of War in and sending it to me. It is one of the sweetest PS2 games since Katamari Damacy. If you own a PS2 and you haven't played God of War yet. SHAME ON YOU! Seriously, what are you waiting for? Approval from the gods? Well, you got it. The God of 3kalbia hereby gives this game the official approval of 4W350M3!

Now you know you have to play the game, but "why?" you might ask. Well, hold on to your loincloth!

You play as Kratos, alas there is no Kang to accompany you. Kratos is a spartan OF THE GODS. He's killed many an innocent elderly lady to reach the top. However, even slaughtering millions and having 3somes with topless women whenever he likes comes with a price. Poor Kratos is haunted with nightmares of all the blood he's spilt, especially that elderly lady. So, the Gods make a deal with Kratos. Simply kill Ares, the god of war, and we will relieve you of your annoying headaches. So, with the secret handshake made Kratos sets of to Rome where Ares is gleefully stomping around a huge battlefield picking up soldiers and tossing them around like King Kong. Now Kratos, in true Michael Bay fashion, gloriously begins cutting down an unending army of Ares minions only to be left with the challenge of bringing down the ruthless behemoth.

Let's graphics in this game are stellar. They aren't the prettiest thing to hit a console, but this ain't no Xbox it's a PS2 for christ's sake. There's some pretty reflective surfaces though. The "making" factor to this game is its gameplay. A box of mythological cereal packed to the brim with action. As you progress through the game different Gods will present you with gifts a.k.a. skills like Rage of the Gods. With these skills at your side, along with your trusty Blades of Chaos (think Rygar) you become an unstoppable force for the millions of Ares' minions in wait. All of these skills can be leveled up with points acquired from killing... err... anything. Kratos has a hard hate on for anything that moves so leveling up is a hoot and Kratos always looks good doing it.

Just when you think this could be just another mindless hack 'n' slasher you begin to notice something new. Something previously used during vital cutscenes in Resident Evil 4. Mini Games!!! Fuck Yeah! Ok, so here's how it works in the God of Warniverse. Certain enemies and big bosses require you to pummel them to the point when a button flashes above them. Then you have to get close enough to enemy and push the button to activate the mini game. Soon you're treated to some incredible cinematics while you're battling the foe and are primed to push a squence of buttons to execute a devasting finishing blow to the helpless baddie.

All of this combined with some excellent features (slow-mo during blocks) and some good action oriented puzzles (moving & firing ballistas at an oncoming pack of minataurs) has put this game up as a prime running candidate for game of the year. So please do yourself a favor and go pick this one up.

more to come...

New Old School Gaming

2005-05-31T20:49:00.000-05:00

There's not really anything new and great on the gaming front for me. Hauz and I have been playing some GTA 3 on the X-box. We've decided to hang out, have a few beers, and complete it. Like I said, nothing spectacular just some new old school gaming fun.

How an Angry Gamer should sound

2005-05-30T11:24:00.000-05:00

Earlier today on Slashdot this delicious RANT was posted. Now he may contradict himself a time or two, but the angry shithead's got a point. What is the world of gaming coming to? I myself am starting to fear the new consoles. Sure I'm excited about online gaming as much as the next joystick jockey, but these aren't gaming machines. They're computers with gaming emphases. Why would I want a game machine that can rip MP3's to begin with? Unless of course the ripped MP3's can be put into the game. I.E. Xbox's custom soundtrack. A utility that was never fully taken advantage of if you ask me. Anywho, check out the article and beware of gaming monotony.

Conflicts amongst ranks

2005-05-26T13:14:00.000-05:00

According to an article at Megagames Bill Gates was put in his place by Robbie Bach, chief xbox officer, when Gates, in a Time magazine article, hinted that Halo 3 would be ready to release in time for the PS3 launch. My personal thoughts are that if Gates actually tries to push Halo 3 for a release in time for the PS3 he'll ruin everything and completely destroy the franchise. Hell, it took Bungie 2 years to get Halo 2 done and now they've also been working continuously with the online portion of the game. If Gates wants to give Playstation a run for their money I think they should revamp Halo 2 and include updated graphics and all of the updates and new maps in a package for Xbox 360 whenever PS3 releases. That should make things interesting.

Viva La Revolution

2005-05-20T19:29:00.000-05:00

Karaoke Revolution

I can't sing. In fact, I think I'm tone deaf. However, none of that stopped me from having a few too many beers and doing my best Frank Sinatra into the Xbox communicator. Karaoke Revolution comes with a base set of songs, but new songs can be unlocked throughout the single player game and by downloading them via Xbox Live. If you like to sing; get this game. If you like karaoke; get this game. If you like to get drunk and act stupid with your friends; get this game.

Halo. Half the whiners. All the fun.

2005-05-17T04:59:00.000-05:00

Halo 2 (1.1) : Xbox Live

Tonight I played some Halo for the first time in awhile. Surprisingly the games were good. Yay! Hauz, Llama, and I did some rumbles, which I shocked myself by doing surprisingly well. And here I thought I sucked. Then we moved onto Team Preview. I had low expectations for this, but wanted to dabble in it anyway. The last time I did Team Preview it was awful because the scores had just been reset and everyone was @ lvl 0. EVERYONE. You could cut the competition in the air with a knife. However we did meet a cool guy who was laid back and didn't care if we died here and there. We did fairly well. Even got to play a couple of lvls in Turf. By the end of the evening I had lvled from a 6 to a 7. So, I was fairly pleased with the experience. I'm not all about the ranks, but it is a bit satisfying to see your rank go up. Well, that's all from me. Time for some mac & cheese.

P.S. here's a little article form OXM that I find to be all but true sometimes.

And the Question is...

2005-05-13T13:47:00.000-05:00

Check out The United Color of Microsoft. Read the caption with the picture of an iPod and the Xbox 360. Johnny Carson eat your heart out.

For you hardware spec dorks out there.

Next Xbox 360 2 One More Time!!!

2005-05-13T10:08:00.000-05:00

Lord, oh lord. Why? Why? Did anyone watch the MTV Xbox 360 launch party and not puke? I hate these demographic promotions yet I can't stop from watching. It's like a train wreck, you just can't look away. However, this train wreck was exceptionally horrible and oh did I want to look away. I kept peering on though, hoping to see that one mangled body at the very end, and you know what? I saw it. In the form of Frodo Baggins presenting The Killers, and there was some talk about a game box or system or console or whatever it's called. The reason I was watching in the first place is because I was hoping to get a glimpse at some upcoming games and more descriptions on the hardware specs, i.e. controllers, headset, cam. Although they did show the many prototypes they went through. That was kind of cool if you can put up with MTV's directorial style of flashcuts and shaky zooms. No wonder all the kids have ADD. I know I should have just waited an hour or so and checked all the game feeds online for pictures and information that I wanted, but how often do you get to see a model stroll out on the catwalk with xbox in sidebag, and pull it out to hundreds of paid clappers? Not that often, and if I was smart not at all. Oh well. Lesson learned.

Next Xbox 360 2... Again

2005-05-08T17:33:00.000-05:00

I found a closer pic of the somewhat iPod'esque next-gen console the X-box 360. Enjoy!

Worldwide Halo 2 Tourney

2005-05-08T14:59:00.000-05:00

That's right! All you Rumble Pit nuts out there could be winning swag for your efforts. Gamestop is hosting a worldwide Rumble Pit tourney. All you do is register and for the duration of the competition they record your games via Bungie and at the end calculate the winners. Check out the details and register here.

Next XBox 360 2

2005-05-08T14:42:00.000-05:00

So, here it is folks. Someone snapped some pics of the Xbox 360 at microsoft's launch party last night. The guy snapped these with his camera phone and somehow no one noticed. At the bottom you'll see the controller, to the left is the new headse, to the right is a cam for for Xbox 360, and on top of the system is a seperate hard drive for the box. It's hard to see, but that's what it is. The Xbox 360 is due to hit shelves in the US sometime in November. Don't forget to check out MTV Presents: The Next Generation Xbox Revealed.

What the fuck is the internet?

2005-05-07T06:32:00.000-05:00

Web Games

Don't have a game and need a fix? Have the internet? Then you're set! Here's a couple web based games that are sure to please.

Kingdom of Loathing A hilarious RPG with the best graphics around!
Like penguins? Like yetis? Like yetis hitting penguins like baseballs? Then this one's for you!
Adventure Quest May be one of the best web based RPGs ever.

Well, that's all I got for right now. I'll keep you posted if I come across anything interesting.

Snorting Phantom Dust

2005-05-07T06:03:00.000-05:00

Phantom Dust

Ok, so I rented Phantom Dust from Gamefly about a week ago, and I must say it caught my eye. And since the price was right, I went ahead and bought it. There's many things about this game that I like, and many things that need work. I think if it had been modified a bit here, and tuned and tweaked a bit there it could have been something spectacular. Right now it's just something different. Plus it has a post-apocolyptic setting, and that's one of my FAVORITE settings of all time!

So I told fellow Slutty Puppy, Hauz (who still hasn't signed up so he can start contributing to this wonderful blog), about my Phantom Dust purchase, and he responded with, "Eh, I'm not really into card battle games." At first I thought, "It's not a card battle game!" However, after some more consideration, I've come to discover it is a glorified card battle game with ACTION! But that doesn't mean it sucks. No sir, it's just a bit more strategic than most action games. You see you're loaded into an environment, which is fully destructable by the way, and you start out with no skills. Red spheres (attacks), blue spheres (defense), yellow spheres (special moves), and green spheres (effects, mainly power ups) appear on the map. You have to run over them and decide which ones you want. Then you assign the ability to one of your 4 buttons, X,Y,A, or B. Now you can use the ability. Some only have one use, some have infinite uses. They all cost ability points to use, and after using them your point tank refills allowing you to use more abilities. Once you have depleted the original set of abilities placed on the map. New abilities will appear in their place allowing you to change up the abilities you have. It's all random on what appears, just like how a card battle game works. The graphics aren't the greatest, but the story is kind of fun, and the atmosphere the game puts off is incredible!!! Imagine if you will The Matrix combined with the atmosphere of 12 Monkeys. Some bizarre mix like that. Plus, if you don't like the music you can customize all the levels with your own music from the xbox hard drive. I like this option, but I usually only see it utilized in racing games. By the way, if you're playing Burnout 3: Takedown The Faint's Wet From Birth was made for that game. Anyway, I'm digging on Phantom Dust. I've yet to take it Live, but I will eventually.

Diablo 3 a.k.a. Guild Wars

2005-05-07T05:28:00.000-05:00

Guild Wars: Elementalist/Monk 11 Ekalb Egarehted

Guild Wars, Guild Wars, Guild Wars, why can't you be more like Final Fantasy XI? Why do you have to be so buggy? Despite what you may think warping 20 feet across the map, especially during battle, is not fun. And another thing when I press the "attack" key I would like to attack every now and again not just stand around with my thumb up my butt. Now let's bitch in list form!

PROS

No monthly fee. That's right. You heard me. Nothing. You get to play this wonderful /cough bullshit /cough MMORPG and it won't cost you a dime but the price to buy the game. Although if there was a monthly fee I don't think anyone in their right mind, or left for that matter, would pay it to play this game.
The interactive map while in a party. This thing is a blast to use, and if properly utilized can help organize some fun strategic attacks. Plus it's a hoot to draw penises and smileys/frowneys on it.
The loads of emotes are a blast as well. We're talking games of strip paper, rock, scissors, air guitar, and my personal favorite NAKED DANCE PARTIES!!
No loss of experience when you die. But instead you get downed 15% on your stats until you kill monsters and bring it back up. This is a big boner, and takes awhile to get back to normality. However it is easily remedied by walking/warping into a town. Then BAM! back to normal. Eh. Whatever.
Switching your attribute points at any time so you can change what you're proficient in. This is fucking awesome!! I love this. If I'm tired of being a fire elementalist, at any time I could stop and switch all my earned attritube points over to water, and BLAMO! Now I'm an ice/water elementalist.

CONS

I can't encounter players on the battlefield? WTF?!
The story so far isn't very involving. I just completed a mission though. It was kind of entertaining. The quests are simply busy work that give you a nice chunk of experience. I don't even read what the NPCs tell me anymore. I simply click through it and then pull up my quest log and find out where I need to go. Ugh. How exhilarating.
And while we're on the missions. I can't view completed quests & missions? WTF?!
All of the ingame windows resize according to the bottom bar. WTF?! I'm constantly moving these stupid windows so I can see things. The interface is customizable. Meaning you can place practically everything on the HUD where ever you want it to be, but this resizing along the bottom bar shit has got to stop.
And while we're on the HUD. The chat window. I have to push enter before I type and enter afterwards? EVERY FUCKING TIME! No matter if I just typed something, and i'm having a conversation with someone. I know it's not a big thing, but it bugs the Bee Jesus out of me.
Having to deal with people to get items. Sure crafters have items, but how often do you find them? Anything good has to be found anyway. I shouldn't really bitch. Most RPGs are like that anyway. Especially MMO ones. Gives people incentive to keep fighting along. But most people in this game are dicks when it comes to selling stuff. I myself have ripped many a person off when selling items, but only because they won't even negotiate. It's their own damned fault. I mean seriously who pays 100 for common crafting materials. Poor saps.
No day & night? WTF?! Ok, this isn't a big one, but when I was playing Final Fantasy XI I could sit and watch the sun set if I wanted to. It was a glorious sight.
Voice, voice, voice. I can't emphasize this enough. I know this game doesn't have it, and I don't think any MMORPG on the market does right now, but ever since Halo 2 came out I want all my games to have voice chat and voice proximity. It's fucking genius! I know the markets and towns would get noisy, so that's when voice proximity comes in. Plus we could add filters to help cut down on all the clatter. Filters such as Public, Shout, Private, Team, and Trade (where applicable.) Llama and I use a 3rd party voice communication program called Roger Wilco to talk to each while in the game. It works out great. However, it's just him and I on it. No one else can join us, unless they have Wilco and we give them the host address to our chat session.

Well, there it is. My opinion of Guild Wars thus far, honestly, though Guild Wars is simply Diablo 3 in 3D. I've had heated converastions that have turned into dance offs and paper, rock, scissor matches over why they think it's nothing like the Diablo series. They're all idiots. However there are a few guys out there that see things my way. Glad to know I'm not the only observant one around here. I'll keep playing the Guild Wars for the time being, but before too long I may have to abandon it, especially once I cap my character's level off @ 20. WTF kind of level cap is 20 anyway? I'm already @ 11, and I've only played the game for about 2 weeks. Anywho, if you see me around Ascalon give me a /wave and challenge me to a dance off. I dare ya!

Return of the Spirit Monk

2005-05-06T13:02:00.000-05:00

Jade Empire

Take that Jade Empire. I kicked your fuckin' pubeless ass. Hell yeah! Don't mess with the Spirit Monk, bitches!

Reviving forgotten wonders

2005-04-29T09:25:00.000-05:00

Jade Empire

Jade Empire has fallen into obscurity and joined the ranks of other forgotten wonder such as The Hanging Gardens of Babylon & That Half-Eaten Twinkie that Slipped Between the Sofa Cushions when you Fell Asleep Trying to Watch Showgirls. It is indeed a sad fate for such a wonderful game to have to share a bunk with a half-eaten twinkie. So, I'm going to start again (playing Jade Empire, not eating the twinkie) when I finish this post... and... I'm done. Bring on the Jade Empire, you will not be forgotten again!

We should form a guild. Everyone else has, why not us?

2005-04-28T20:50:00.000-05:00

Guild Wars

Ah, dear sweet Guild Wars. My initial impressions of the Guild Wars release were, and I quote, "What the fuck?! Why the fuck is my character reset?" and "What the fuck?! Where the fuck is my guild cape?"

"Ahem," coughed Annoyed Llama as he stepped up on his soap box.

Let me start from the beginning, because that's the obvious place to start from. I pre-ordered Guild Wars so I could play in all the beta weekend events and witness first hand the progression of a great game. And for someone who is interested in the development of video games, it was really cool! One such progressing change was the value of the monetary unit. Guild Wars has ever so originally adopted the gold piece as a basis for value in commerce. When I began playing during the beta weekends, everything (weapons, armor, items, etc.) was worth 1 gold piece. As the beta weekends progressed towards the official release, the value of various items were increased depending on their attributes. However, none of that matters because I formed a guild when everything had a worth of 1 gold piece. To form a guild I was charged 100 gold; to get a guild cape... another 100 gold. Needless to say, I worked my ass off to scrounge the dough to form a guild and buy a cape. Now the game has been released and my guild still exists, but where the fuck is the cape that I worked so hard to buy?!

I also worked my ass off to build up my character. And in doing so I completed numerous quests, collected heaps of items, and acquired an abundance of gold. Then came the release of the game and almost instantaneously afterward came the resetting of my character. Now my level 11 Mesmer/Ranger (don't laugh, aside from looking fruity, the mesmer is actually pretty cool) is a budding level 1. My items, weapons, and armor are all gone; I am once again stuck with the starter weapon that can't cut air and starter armor that can't protect me from a sneeze. My gold is also gone; I'm forced to perform unspeakable acts with people I meet in the dark corners of Ascalon City just to pay the guild dues (guild dues are non-existent). WTF?!

Annoyed Llama steps off his soap box.

I quickly got over all of that because Guild Wars rules. Buy it today and play it immediately. Forget all about work, school, relationships, your family, and everything else in that so called 'real world'. From now on, the world of Ascalon is your only reality.

Additional:
Guild Wars allows for the creation of up to 4 different characters per account. My four characters names are as follows:

Annoyed Llama - male warrior
Irate Llama - male ranger
Cupcake Llama - female elementalist
Missy Fruitcake - female mesmer

If you see any of them around, give a /wave and say "Oi!".

Up & Comers!

2005-04-27T19:44:00.000-05:00

Ok gameboys and gamegirls I've got a list of games that are sure to blow your mind. I received the new PC Gamer and there was a huge article of upcoming titles that will be featured @ E3. Here's a list of games I'm keeping my eyes on.

Prey (late 2005)
F.E.A.R. (fall 2005)
Dungeon Siege II (summer 2005)
Battlefield 2 (june 30 2005)
Black & White 2 (fall 2005)
The Movies (fall 2005)
Quake IV (Late 2005)
Sun (Q4 2005)
Huxley (Q4 2006)
Stubbs the Zombie in "Rebel Without a Pulse" (fall 2005)
Call of Duty 2 (august 2005)
Dungeons & Dragons Online (2005)
Hellgate: London (2006)

Check them out, y'all! And more in gaming news, Annoyed Llama and I got our copies of Guild Wars today and shall be posting more later. If you see us, Ekalb Egarehted the Elementalist and Annoyed Llama the Warrior, give us a /wave and say "Oi!"

Some Halo 2 for me and you

2005-04-25T14:07:00.000-05:00

Halo 2: Xbox Live

Last night we (Annoyed Llama, Faded Joker, and I) had a pretty eventful game session. First of all we met up with our old buds Dr Wahl and DryGravyTrain for one too many counter-strike games that proved to be a bit one-sided. Mainly, because we suck. However that doesn't discourage us from playing. Ok, well sometimes it does, but not ALL the time. Then, after a game, while checking out the post-game carnage report I accidently hit the B button and logged out of Xbox Live. Joker soon followed me and Llama was left in a game with Wahl, Gravy, and Gravy's younger brother, EvenNumbers. After a few games of Skirmish Joker and I finally met back up with Llama. We played some more Skirmish games then. One in particular was a CTF 3-on-3 game on Midship against a lvl 14, 16, and something else. Mind you we're all lvl 9's and 10's. We kicked their pubeless asses; 3-0. Then afterwards they called us cheaters so we left them some happy feedback; cursing & lewdness, threats & harassment, and screaming. Awww, those lucky guys. Anyway the new maps are out now, and i'm downloading them as I type this. RAWK! More to come at a later date. (as if it could be a sooner one.)

Tragon or Diger?

2005-04-22T13:41:00.000-05:00

Jade Empire: Save 84 - 18H 0Min - Level 12

So I made it to the Imperial city. It's big, and pretty. And all the guards are looking for me, but they think i'm some 7 foot tall mammoth that can strike down an army in one blow. Well, I do admit I can bring an army to it's knees in one blow, but i'm about as tall as Wolverine. He's like 4 foot 7, or something like that? I've also taken Mad Kang's crazy dragonfly on a whirlwind adventure to jog his memory only to discover that his memory made some crazy device that took me to Lord Lao's heaven. Oh yeah! Giant useless machines everywhere!!! Will you choose Dragon or Tiger? After forking around with configurations I came back to the Imperial City and joined the Arena and quickly made it through the qualifiers. Humiliating Hapless Han was a pleasure, and afterwards I encouraged him to keep fighting. Why should I be the one to ruin the fun for all other up and coming contenders?

Hydrophobic ghosts, drunks, and stupid demons, oh my!

2005-04-20T12:54:00.000-05:00

Jade Empire: Save 66 - 12H 21Min - Level 10

Played a bit last night. Nothing too eventful. Helped a hydrophobic girl ghost skip past some water, Dispersed some drowned inmates, made a drunk face his past by watching him bury bones, then I beat the tar out of a demon only to have him join me on my quest. Why is he joining me? Well he was protecting an amulet for me, but was tricked and lost it. So what does he want to do now? That's right, protect me. Well, now I'm off to the Dam....damn.

Jade Empire

2005-04-18T15:10:00.000-05:00

3kalb picked up Jade Empire the day after it came out. I started playing the game the other night with high hopes and was not disappointed. Combat is fun and fluid. However, from my point of view, the most enjoyable aspect of this game is the story. I'd describe it as a cross between your common kung-fu movie plot and a really good anime. It's no wonder I started playing in the afternoon and didn't stop for eleven whole hours.

Oh yeah... after I killed the Mother in the forest, I had this overwhelming desire to watch Princess Mononoke.

And now, I'm fuckin' outta here!

Oi, Dickhead!

2005-04-16T16:53:00.000-05:00

This blog was created because a select few of us, the Slutty Puppies, have nothing better to do and enjoy wasting your time as well as ours. In this blog we'll be posting pointless and usually grossly uneducated opinions and beliefs about video games. We'll also be using this blog as a journal of sorts about our current video game escapades.

Slutty Puppies Game Blog

IGN is being Wii-diculous!

Halo 3. 'Nuff Said.

Bark At The Moon!

Wiiiiiiiiiii

Rube Nintendo Contraption

DANCE PARTY HALF-LIFE!

A Happy Little Game

What The Fuck Is A Video Game?

It's Funny Because It's True

Arrrrggg! Matey!

This Is No Game. This IS The Revolution.

The Chin is back!

Get Equipped

With Full Pouting Lips...

Bow Chicka Oblivion

Now Entering Silent Hill (Population: Hell)

Shaun Of The Dead Tone

Draw Me A Halo

Who Wants Smacked In The Nuts?

Don't crap in my Sandbox

And You Thought You Were Having A Bad Day

Heartbeats Across The World

Sponsored By The M12 LRV Warthog. The Hog.

Bye Bye Katamari!

You Got Hack In My 360! You Got 360 In My Hack!

SHH! It's A Secret

GR:AW esome!!!!

Rockstar: Still making controversial games

The Angriest Halo Player In The World

Give Me My Chocolate Milk

With no contenders Fight Night Round 3 emerges victorious

WTF?

Down and Out In Deep 13

X-Box 360: Full-circle and a stutter-step

Ha ha ha!

MVP 06 NCAA Baseball or: EA can thank Nintendo for analog sticks

and the wait has ceased....

What is your quest?

Marco!

a good start...

Happy Birthday!

Save Me Jeebus

Don't mess with something so good

Next-Gen Jitters

Microsoft sells out

Physics and you

Taking games to a whole new level

Where do we take this now?

I'll put a cap in yo ass... a Mountain Dew cap

Street Fightin' Man

Somebody Save Me

Then again some legends were meant to be forgotten

Smiling in the shadows

Standing in the shadow of destiny...

Return to sender

Gunning for the west

The Revolution is coming! by Nintendo

F.U.B.U.

We'll get medieval on your Violent Games Act!

Be an angel with Halo

Stacked for Ekalb

Something for you Squares out there

Stacked

C n I ge a Ha o? Any ne?

No F.E.A.R.

I F.E.A.R. for the worst

Guess Who's Coming to Dinner?

I've Got That Classic Feeling

Got game?

Arrghh! Me first post be borne!

Oh My God of War Is Awesome!

New Old School Gaming

How an Angry Gamer should sound

Conflicts amongst ranks

Viva La Revolution

Halo. Half the whiners. All the fun.

And the Question is...

Next Xbox 360 2 One More Time!!!

Next Xbox 360 2... Again