Eilistraee.com

Well, E3 has started (or rather the pre-E3 press conferences have started) and is, supposedly, back to its former glory. So I thought I'd create this thread to keep track of some news coming out of it.

I'll be editing the first post with news that interests me (and maybe you as well), but of course if you see something you find interesting feel free to reply letting people know.

I personally always love these conference weeks... always full of games news.


To start some pre-E3 news. Last Thursday Spike TV and GameTrailers.com had a pre-E3 show in which they showed a lot of exclusive new trailers. Most interesting here where [url=http://www.gametrailers.com/video/e3-09 ... 9:e77p95kg]Mass Effect 2[/url:e77p95kg] and [url=http://www.gametrailers.com/video/e3-09 ... 6:e77p95kg]Dragon Age: Origins[/url:e77p95kg] (other trailers [url=http://www.gametrailers.com/e3/gttv-pre-e3/:e77p95kg]here[/url:e77p95kg]).

And speaking of Dragon Age: Origins, BioWare has [url=http://nwn.bioware.com/forums/viewtopic ... 1:e77p95kg]officially announced[/url:e77p95kg] a release date for the game of 20 October (NA)/23 October (EU). Definitely the game I'm most looking forward to this year.

Another interesting bit of pre-E3 news is that LucasArts is releasing more [url=http://uk.pc.gamespy.com/pc/tales-of-mo ... 2:e77p95kg]Monkey Island[/url:e77p95kg]. This includes a remake of the first game (for digital download as I understand) and a bunc of new episodes. We'll see how it works out, but I loved the original Monkey Island so we'll see what that becomes.

Then I've just watched the Microsoft Media Briefing press event, which was unsurprisingly all about XBox 360. Now, I personally don't like the X360 much at all (maybe has something to do with me working for Sony ), but I must say that I was honestly impressed with Project Natal. This isn't a game as such, but more a new way to control games (new as in improved over the PlayStation EyeToy). Is uses a camera and depth sensors and a microphone to track full body movement in 3D, use facial recognition and expression recognition as well as voice recognition it allows you to interact with the console without a controller at all. Just get in front of the TV and play by moving.

Here is a [url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oACt9R9z37U:e77p95kg]concept video[/url:e77p95kg] (i.e. not how it works but how they want it to work) for Project Natal to show you what it's supposed to do. Haven't found a decent video yet of the demos they showed at E3, but they showed controlling the menus with just gestures, they showed a break-out type game where you knocked balls back in 3D to break blocks in the distance, they showed a 'painting' (more, throw paint on a canvas) program where you paint by gestures, and most impressively they showed a program by Peter Molyneux where you interact with a virtual character who recognizes your facial expression, your voice, etc.

[EDIT] [url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHFjabelvSo:e77p95kg]Here's a video[/url:e77p95kg] showing two of the demos (in a more controlled environment).

I'm still skeptical though. Having working with voice recognition it never works as well as they'd like you to believe. False positives (where it recognizes the wrong thing) and just mistakes are common and the more words it recognizes the worse it becomes. Similarly things like motion recognition tends to require ideal conditions and is prone to making mistakes. But if they can make it work well then it truly would be the future of gaming. Exciting times.

Alright, next up is the E3 press conference with probably more Dragon Age and Mass Effect 2. Though I've got two times for it (Gamespot says it's on in 30 minutes and IGN says it's on in two-and-a-half hours) so I hope it'll actually show before I should head to bed. Anyway, will keep posting news.

[EDIT 20090601] Some off-the-hook stuff from BioWare at the EA press conference. But instead of just repeating it here, allow me to link you to [url=http://moonendor.blogspot.com/2009/06/e ... l:e77p95kg]My SW:TOR blog post[/url:e77p95kg] on the subject.

Very, very, [i:e77p95kg]very[/i:e77p95kg] cool cinematic trailer. And did I hear someone say "fully-voiced MMO"?


Love -x-x-x-

Shir'le

Decided to add a post with a more clearly formatted list of games (and such).

[list:izwdxe0u][*:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]Dragon Age: Origins[/b:izwdxe0u][/size:izwdxe0u] (PC, PS3, X360)[/size:izwdxe0u]

BioWare is going back to their origins in this spiritual successor to Baldur's Gate, a culmination of all they've learned making the best roleplaying games in the industry. Dragon Age: Origins promises to be a mature, dark heroic fantasy in a world filled with violence and lust.

[list:izwdxe0u][*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.gametrailers.com/video/e3-09 ... 6:izwdxe0u]Pre-E3 Trailer[/url:izwdxe0u] at GameTrailers[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://nwn.bioware.com/forums/viewtopic ... 1:izwdxe0u]Release date announced[/url:izwdxe0u] for October 20th/23rd[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://dragonage.bioware.com/:izwdxe0u]Revamped Official Website[/url:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.shacknews.com/onearticle.x/58986:izwdxe0u]Impressions[/url:izwdxe0u] at Shacknews[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://e3.gamespot.com/story/6211024/dr ... n:izwdxe0u]Updated Hands-On[/url:izwdxe0u] at GameSpot[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.thunderboltgames.com/feature ... l:izwdxe0u]Impressions[/url:izwdxe0u] at Thunderbolt Games[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://gamevideos.1up.com/video/id/25013:izwdxe0u]Red Dragon Battle gameplay video[/url:izwdxe0u] at 1UP[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://blog.toptenreviews.com/?p=3395:izwdxe0u]Dragon Age Impressions: Gameplay and Design[/url:izwdxe0u] at TopTen Reviews[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://uk.pc.ign.com/articles/991/99120 ... l:izwdxe0u]Sex and the Single Gray Warden[/url:izwdxe0u] at IGN[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/hands ... /:izwdxe0u]Hands-On[/url:izwdxe0u] at Joystiq[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://e3.gamespot.com/video/6211663/:izwdxe0u]Live Stage Demo[/url:izwdxe0u] at GameSpot[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://360.kombo.com/article.php?artid=16542:izwdxe0u]Hands-On[/url:izwdxe0u] at Kombo[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://gamerlimit.com/2009/06/e3-impres ... /:izwdxe0u]E3 Hands-On[/url:izwdxe0u] at Gamer Limit[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.gamingnexus.com/FullNews/E3- ... x:izwdxe0u]Impressions[/url:izwdxe0u] at Gaming Nexus[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://uk.pc.gamespy.com/pc/dragon-age/ ... 4:izwdxe0u]Hands-On[/url:izwdxe0u] at GameSpy[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.gamestooge.com/2009/06/04/e3 ... /:izwdxe0u]Impressions[/url:izwdxe0u] at GameStooge[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://news.bigdownload.com/2009/06/04/ ... /:izwdxe0u]Hands-On Impressions[/url:izwdxe0u] at BigDownload[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.gamasutra.com/view/feature/4 ... p:izwdxe0u]The Story Thing: BioWare's David Gaider Speaks[/url:izwdxe0u] at Gamasutra[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.bit-tech.net/gaming/pc/2009/ ... 1:izwdxe0u]Interview[/url:izwdxe0u] at Bit-Tech[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2009/06 ... 8:izwdxe0u]Preview[/url:izwdxe0u] at Rock, Paper, Shotgun[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.atomicgamer.com/article.php?id=812:izwdxe0u]Preview[/url:izwdxe0u] at AtomicGamer[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mLgdHpmaIvs:izwdxe0u]On the EA Stage[/url:izwdxe0u] at YouTube[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.worthplaying.com/article.php ... 9:izwdxe0u]Preview[/url:izwdxe0u] at WorthPlaying[/*izwdxe0u][/list:u:izwdxe0u]
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[*:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]Mass Effect 2[/b:izwdxe0u][/size:izwdxe0u] (PC, X360)[/size:izwdxe0u]

The sequel to BioWare's massively successful Sci-fi RPG is promised to be the "The Empire Strikes Back" of the Mass Effect trilogy, with a darker story, a larger scope and overall many improvements over the previous game. And what's more, if you've still got your Mass Effect 1 savegame then it'll carry across all the choices you made in that.

[list:izwdxe0u][*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.gametrailers.com/video/e3-09 ... 9:izwdxe0u]Pre-E3 trailer[/url:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://masseffect.bioware.com/:izwdxe0u]Revamped Official Website[/url:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://uk.pc.ign.com/articles/990/99011 ... l:izwdxe0u]Preview[/url:izwdxe0u] at IGN[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://e3.gamespot.com/story/6210981/ma ... s:izwdxe0u]Impressions[/url:izwdxe0u] at GameSpot[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.shacknews.com/onearticle.x/58969:izwdxe0u]Preview[/url:izwdxe0u] at Shacknews[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/impre ... /:izwdxe0u]Mass Effect 2 'Suicide Mission' Impressions[/url:izwdxe0u] at Joystiq[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://e3.g4tv.com/thefeed/blog/post/69 ... l:izwdxe0u]Preview[/url:izwdxe0u] at G4[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.gamertell.com/gaming/comment ... /:izwdxe0u]More Details About Mass Effect 2[/url:izwdxe0u] at GamerTell[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://e3.gamespot.com/video/6211391/?hd=1:izwdxe0u]Live Stage Demo[/url:izwdxe0u] at GameSpot[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.worthplaying.com/article.php ... 5:izwdxe0u]X360/PC Preview[/url:izwdxe0u] at WorthPlaying[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://xbox360.gamezone.com/gzreviews/p ... m:izwdxe0u]E3 2009 Preview[/url:izwdxe0u] at GameZone[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.destructoid.com/e3-09-mass-e ... =:izwdxe0u]Demo Impressions[/url:izwdxe0u] at Destructoid[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/e3-ma ... w:izwdxe0u]Preview[/url:izwdxe0u] at Eurogamer[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://uk.pc.ign.com/articles/991/99178 ... l:izwdxe0u]Hands-On[/url:izwdxe0u] at IGN[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://kotaku.com/5279409/bioware-doesn ... 2:izwdxe0u]BioWare Doesn't Expect You To Survive[/url:izwdxe0u] at Kotaku[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.giantbomb.com/e3-2009-interv ... /:izwdxe0u]Video Interview[/url:izwdxe0u] at GiantBomb (first half; second half is SW:TOR)[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/hands ... /:izwdxe0u]Hands-On[/url:izwdxe0u] at Joystiq[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://previews.teamxbox.com/xbox-360/2 ... /:izwdxe0u]Preview[/url:izwdxe0u] at TeamXbox[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2009/06 ... /:izwdxe0u]Impressions[/url:izwdxe0u] at Rock, Paper, Shotgun[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.incgamers.com/Previews/82/Ma ... k:izwdxe0u]First Look[/url:izwdxe0u] at IncGamers[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://360.kombo.com/article.php?artid=16605:izwdxe0u]Preview[/url:izwdxe0u] at Kombo[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://uk.pc.ign.com/dor/objects/142350 ... l:izwdxe0u]Video Preview[/url:izwdxe0u] at IGN[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.wired.com/gamelife/2009/06/m ... /:izwdxe0u]Preview[/url:izwdxe0u] at Wired[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XxGXUkM4k0g:izwdxe0u]On the EA Stage[/url:izwdxe0u] at YouTube[/*izwdxe0u][/list:u:izwdxe0u]
[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]Star Wars: The Old Republic[/b:izwdxe0u][/size:izwdxe0u] (PC)[/size:izwdxe0u]

BioWare returns to George Lucas' massive franchise by making the first story-oriented MMO. With every class getting a unique story and experience this game looks like it could blow pretty much every other MMO out of the water (but then again, we've certainly heard that before). Either way though, this game promises to be absolutely massive.

[list:izwdxe0u][*:izwdxe0u]See [url=http://moonendor.blogspot.com/2009/06/e ... l:izwdxe0u]my Star Wars: The Old Republic blog[/url:izwdxe0u] for all E3 links; from now on I'll only keep that one updated with SW:TOR links.[/*izwdxe0u][/list:u:izwdxe0u]
[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]Monkey Island[/b:izwdxe0u][/size:izwdxe0u] (PC, X360) (PC, Wii)[/size:izwdxe0u]

It seems Guybrush Threepwood is back, will he once again succeed in uncovering the secret of Monkey Island? We'll get not only a remake of the classic (on PC and X360), but also five new downloadable episodes (on PC and Wii). Will it have the same charm as the fondly remembered classic adventure?

[list:izwdxe0u][*:izwdxe0u][url=http://uk.pc.gamespy.com/pc/tales-of-mo ... 2:izwdxe0u]Tales of Monkey Island[/url:izwdxe0u] at GameSpy.[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://e3.gamespot.com/video/6210375/?t ... 5:izwdxe0u]Monkey Island Special Edition demo[/url:izwdxe0u]; looking very good[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://kotaku.com/5274117/the-secret-of ... y:izwdxe0u]Monkey Island Special Edition screenshots[/url:izwdxe0u] at Kotaku; showing old and new next to each other[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://e3.gamespot.com/story/6211077/th ... n:izwdxe0u]Monkey Island Special Edition impressions[/url:izwdxe0u] at GameSpot[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://uk.xbox360.ign.com/dor/objects/1 ... 4:izwdxe0u]Gameplay movie[/url:izwdxe0u] at IGN[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://e3.gamespot.com/video/6211404/?hd=1:izwdxe0u]Special Edition Live Stage Demo[/url:izwdxe0u] at GameSpot[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://e3.gamespot.com/video/6211409/?hd=1:izwdxe0u]Tales Live Stage Demo[/url:izwdxe0u] at GameSpot[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://e3.gamespot.com/video/6211392/?hd=1:izwdxe0u]Tales of Monkey Island Trailer[/url:izwdxe0u] at GameSpot[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://e3.gamespot.com/story/6211579/ta ... s:izwdxe0u]Tales of Monkey Island Impressions[/url:izwdxe0u] at GameSpot[/*izwdxe0u][/list:u:izwdxe0u]
[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]Project Natal[/b:izwdxe0u][/size:izwdxe0u] (X360)[/size:izwdxe0u]

I don't have anything with XBox 360, but Microsoft's Project Natal could be a revolution to gaming. What is it? Simply put it promises to let you control your console and play games without using any kind of controller, just by gesturing and moving your body and through voice recognition. Though I'm skeptical it does look very promising.

[list:izwdxe0u][*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oACt9R9z37U:izwdxe0u]Project Natal concept video[/url:izwdxe0u] showing you their vision of how they want it to work (not how it actually does)[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHFjabelvSo:izwdxe0u]Project Natal tech demos[/url:izwdxe0u] showing you how it actually works now[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWnZOseA3Lw:izwdxe0u]Peter Molyneux Milo[/url:izwdxe0u] showing a truly impressive use of the tech[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://kotaku.com/5275204/testing-molyn ... g:izwdxe0u]Kotaku Tries Milo[/url:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/e3-pr ... w:izwdxe0u]Interview with Peter Molyneux[/url:izwdxe0u] regarding Milo[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://kotaku.com/5276789/from-stick-fi ... s:izwdxe0u]Kotaku Tries Project Natal[/url:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][url=http://uk.xbox360.ign.com/articles/989/ ... l:izwdxe0u]IGN Tries Project Natal[/url:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u][/list:u:izwdxe0u]
[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][size=134:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]Other Games[/b:izwdxe0u][/size:izwdxe0u]

To close off I'll have a list of other games (and any news I find notable). Won't go into descriptions much here and the games range a variety of platforms. Just because I might not play a game doesn't mean that it isn't interesting.

[list:izwdxe0u][*:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]Sony Press Conference:[/b:izwdxe0u] [size=67:izwdxe0u](PS2, PS3, PSP)[/size:izwdxe0u] [url=http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_i ... 7:izwdxe0u]Analysis[/url:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]The Agency:[/b:izwdxe0u] [size=67:izwdxe0u](PC, PS3)[/size:izwdxe0u] [url=http://e3.gamespot.com/story/6211675/th ... s:izwdxe0u]Impressions[/url:izwdxe0u] (with video)[/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]Alan Wake:[/b:izwdxe0u] [size=67:izwdxe0u](PC, X360)[/size:izwdxe0u] [url=http://e3.gamespot.com/story/6211095/al ... s:izwdxe0u]Impressions[/url:izwdxe0u], [url=http://uk.xbox360.ign.com/dor/objects/7 ... a:izwdxe0u]Gameplay[/url:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]APB:[/b:izwdxe0u] [size=67:izwdxe0u](PC, PS3, X360)[/size:izwdxe0u] [url=http://uk.xbox360.ign.com/dor/objects/7 ... x:izwdxe0u]Trailer[/url:izwdxe0u], [url=http://e3.gamespot.com/story/6211477/ap ... s:izwdxe0u]Impressions[/url:izwdxe0u], [url=http://gamevideos.1up.com/video/id/2497 ... r:izwdxe0u]Customization Video[/url:izwdxe0u], [url=http://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2009/06 ... /:izwdxe0u]Preview[/url:izwdxe0u], [url=http://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2008/06 ... /:izwdxe0u]Old Customization Video[/url:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]Assassin's Creed 2:[/b:izwdxe0u] [size=67:izwdxe0u](PC, PS3, X360, DS)[/size:izwdxe0u] [url=http://ps3.ign.com/dor/objects/14302494 ... l:izwdxe0u]Gameplay[/url:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]Avatar:[/b:izwdxe0u] [size=67:izwdxe0u](PC, PS3, X360, Wii, DS, PSP)[/size:izwdxe0u] [url=http://e3.gamespot.com/story/6211102/ja ... s:izwdxe0u]First Impressions[/url:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]Batman: Arkham Asylum:[/b:izwdxe0u] [size=67:izwdxe0u](PC, PS3, X360)[/size:izwdxe0u] [url=http://uk.pc.ign.com/articles/990/99018 ... l:izwdxe0u]Preview[/url:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]EyePet:[/b:izwdxe0u] [size=67:izwdxe0u](PS3)[/size:izwdxe0u] [url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/992/9920 ... l:izwdxe0u]Eyes-On[/url:izwdxe0u], [url=http://kotaku.com/5278973/eyes-on-with- ... t:izwdxe0u]Eyes-On[/url:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]Fallout 3 - Point Lookout:[/b:izwdxe0u] [size=67:izwdxe0u](PC, PS3, X360)[/size:izwdxe0u] [url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/dor/objects/14350 ... b:izwdxe0u]Trailer[/url:izwdxe0u], [url=http://e3.gamespot.com/story/6211442/fa ... n:izwdxe0u]Hands-On[/url:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]Final Fantasy XIV Online:[/b:izwdxe0u] [size=67:izwdxe0u](PC, PS3)[/size:izwdxe0u] [url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/dor/objects/82399 ... 1:izwdxe0u]Trailer[/url:izwdxe0u], [url=http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_i ... 0:izwdxe0u]Q&A[/url:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]Heavy Rain:[/b:izwdxe0u] [size=67:izwdxe0u](PS3)[/size:izwdxe0u] [url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/dor/objects/81123 ... l:izwdxe0u]Trailer[/url:izwdxe0u], [url=http://e3.gamespot.com/story/6211427/he ... e:izwdxe0u]Impressions[/url:izwdxe0u], [url=http://www.escapistmagazine.com/article ... n:izwdxe0u]Hands-On[/url:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]Heroes of Telara:[/b:izwdxe0u] [size=67:izwdxe0u](PC)[/size:izwdxe0u] [url=http://uk.pc.ign.com/dor/objects/143475 ... b:izwdxe0u]Trailer[/url:izwdxe0u], [url=http://uk.pc.ign.com/articles/990/99096 ... l:izwdxe0u]Preview[/url:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]The Last Guardian:[/b:izwdxe0u] [size=67:izwdxe0u](PS3)[/size:izwdxe0u] [url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/dor/objects/14230 ... 4:izwdxe0u]Trailer[/url:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]ModNation Racers:[/b:izwdxe0u] [size=67:izwdxe0u](PS3)[/size:izwdxe0u] [url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/dor/objects/14354 ... t:izwdxe0u]Gameplay[/url:izwdxe0u], [url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/991/9913 ... l:izwdxe0u]Impressions[/url:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]Prototype:[/b:izwdxe0u] [size=67:izwdxe0u](PC, PS3, X360)[/size:izwdxe0u] [url=http://uk.pc.ign.com/dor/objects/956075 ... 3:izwdxe0u]Trailer[/url:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]The Saboteur:[/b:izwdxe0u] [size=67:izwdxe0u](PC, PS3, X360)[/size:izwdxe0u] [url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/dor/objects/89425 ... q:izwdxe0u]Demo[/url:izwdxe0u], [url=http://e3.gamespot.com/video/6211587/?hd=1:izwdxe0u]Stage Demo[/url:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]Splinter Cell: Conviction:[/b:izwdxe0u] [size=67:izwdxe0u](PC, X360)[/size:izwdxe0u] [url=http://e3.gamespot.com/video/6211389/:izwdxe0u]Gameplay[/url:izwdxe0u], [url=http://uk.pc.ign.com/articles/988/98857 ... l:izwdxe0u]Preview[/url:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u]
[*:izwdxe0u][b:izwdxe0u]Uncharted 2:[/b:izwdxe0u] [size=67:izwdxe0u](PS3)[/size:izwdxe0u] [url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/dor/objects/14225 ... l:izwdxe0u]Gameplay[/url:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u][/list:u:izwdxe0u][/*izwdxe0u][/list:u:izwdxe0u]
I'll edit and post more as I come across it.


Love -x-x-x-

Shir'le

Added a bunch of new links as well as added (expected) platforms to all games so you know whether you'll be able to play it or not (PC specs notwithstanding).


Love -x-x-x-

Shir'le

Added a bunch more links.


Love -x-x-x-

Shir'le

The problem with living in Europe while following a large event in the United States is that a lot of the update happen while you're sleeping.

So I've updated the list again with a new bunch of links. Also reformatted the list of SW:TOR demo impressions because the old list was starting to look really messy.

And I think E3 has pretty much ended now, so the number of links should slow down. Though I still expect some more articles to trickle in over the coming days. This weekend I might also take a look at the list of titles I haven't yet to see if there's anything interesting there that I missed.

Will continue to keep you updated.


Love -x-x-x-

Shir'le

Definately looking forward to Assasin's Creed II. The first one was right on amazing, incorporating an AI system that's very far ahead of most games. Only other AI system I find worth mentioning was in the Black&White games with the creatures inteligence.

Nao, I'm posting this in 20 sec, so I can't exactly manage to check the E3 trailers, but could you try and stick Prototype into them links?
The games definately worth mentioning, especially for people who like sensless slaughter (in games), even though the story is the ultimate phail.

E3 2009 has come and gone with lots and lots of news, videos and new games coming from the expo. And though I haven’t been there myself I thought I’d post some post-E3 thoughts based on the things I have seen from following it online.

[list:z8xesz8q][*:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]Press Conferences[/b:z8xesz8q][/size:z8xesz8q]

As with every E3 the big companies held their press conferences before the show started again. I’ve seen the four big ones (Microsoft, Sony, Nintendo, EA) live (though I missed the last 20 minutes or so of the Nintendo one) and saw the Ubisoft one the next day.

[list:z8xesz8q][*:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]Microsoft Press Conference[/b:z8xesz8q]

I’m not much of an Xbox 360 fan, and the Microsoft press conferences always ignore the PC and focus only on the console, but I must say that I was quite impressed with the press conference. Though perhaps a little too… glitzy for my tastes (I prefer substance over presentation). They had an impressive line-up of games and despite their claims that they’re ‘exclusive’ to the Xbox 360 pretty much all of them are coming to PC as well. They had some nice-sounding updates for their online network and then the most impressive Project Natal (more on that later). I just wish there was a little less of “we are the best, our console is the best”.
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[*:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]Nintendo Press Conference[/b:z8xesz8q]

This was the one I was least interested in and least excited about after seeing it. Perhaps it is because none of Nintendo’s platforms interest me in any way, shape or form. As such I didn’t really feel like I missed the last bit and though I could’ve looked it up later I didn’t see the point. Of the news that was posted out of that there didn’t seem to be anything that interested me anyway. Only thing that looked alright was the new multiplayer Mario, but there are more games offering the same.
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[*:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]Sony Press Conference[/b:z8xesz8q]

After Microsoft’s strong showing and after the numerous pre-show leaks (like the PSP Go already being leaked in detail) watching Sony’s press conference was almost as if rooting for the underdog. But they delivered with a very impressive showing of games (particularly Uncharted 2 looked quite impressive) and some surprise announcements (such as Final Fantasy XIV Online, an MMO coming to PC as well). In the end they didn’t quite impress as much as Microsoft perhaps, but considering that most of their games actually are exclusive to the PS3 I think they showed a stronger line-up of games in the end. I just wish there was a little less of “we are the best, our console is the best”.
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[*:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]EA Press Conference[/b:z8xesz8q]

Being mainly a PC games (and expecting nothing directly PC-related at the Microsoft conference) and with BioWare, and thus my top-three most anticipated titles, being part of EA this was the press conference I was most looking forward too. The press conference was very understated, little glitz and just focusing on the presentation, which was refreshing. Though the showing of Dragon Age: Origins and Mass Effect 2 disappointed somewhat as there wasn’t really anything I hadn’t already seen, and I was expecting Star Wars: The Old Republic at this point and disappointed that they didn’t’ show it. And then most of the conference was about sport games, which bored me to tears. APB was a nice surprise and there were a few other nice games shown, but that… ended with a very strong showing of Star Wars: The Old Republic and a very good cinematic trailer for the game that blew me away.
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[*:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]Ubisoft Press Conference[/b:z8xesz8q]

I must say that I was having a hard time finding much interest in following the Ubisoft press conference. In fact I can’t clearly recall anything that they showed, except some casual games. Maybe it was because it was the last press conference and I was suffering from press conference overload. Don’t get me wrong, they had some good games to show. They showed Splinter Cell again, which was also shown at the Microsoft conference, and Assassin’s Creed 2. But the rest left me cold.[/*z8xesz8q][/list:u:z8xesz8q]
Overall it was a very strong opening for this year’s E3, lauding in a return to form for the entertainment expo.
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[*:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]Dragon Age: Origins[/b:z8xesz8q][/size:z8xesz8q] (PC, PS3, X360)[/size:z8xesz8q]

I think that Dragon Age: Origins is probably my number-one most anticipated game right now. As such I’m finding it very hard to get more excited for it regardless of what they show. And though I’ve read every article and seen every movie coming out of E3, it all left me a bit with a taste of “yeah, I kinda already knew that, but I want to [i:z8xesz8q]play[/i:z8xesz8q] it already”. It was nice seeing the dragon fight and hearing that they’re not shying away from adult content and all, but little new details on the game. I guess that’s because they don’t want to spoil much of anything more before the release and with the original PC release planned months ago it feels a bit like marketing is just trying to stretch things out further to bridge the gap. The only real announcement was the release date of October 20th/23rd. Still remains my number-one most anticipated game.
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[*:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]Mass Effect 2[/b:z8xesz8q][/size:z8xesz8q] (PC, X360)[/size:z8xesz8q]

After my number-one most anticipated game we’re moving on to… my number-two most anticipated game. The first Mass Effect was probably the most enjoyable game I played last year (though it’s a close call with Fallout 3) and I can’t wait for more. With BioWare using this year’s E3 as sort of an unveiling for the game it was also the first time that we got some real details on the game. And it’s sounding quite impressive indeed, if a bit scary (you can reach a proper end to the game where your Shepherd is dead). Though they didn’t answer the most important question: can you continue your romance with Liara?
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[*:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]Star Wars: The Old Republic[/b:z8xesz8q][/size:z8xesz8q] (PC)[/size:z8xesz8q]

And from my number-two we go to my number-three most anticipated game (anyone sensing a common theme here?) and my number-one most anticipated MMO. Unfortunately as far as E3 goes it was a bit a mixed bag. The trailer was absolutely spectacular, and it’s great hearing more details and reports of people playing the game and what they think of it. But I was also expecting to see some actual gameplay, which it feels the developers had hinted at (before the show they kept dropping hints as to how exciting the gameplay demo was). And they haven’t changed my mind on thinking that it’s not a long-lasting MMO and instead something you play much as a single-player game (though you can play it with friends) for a shorter period of time. If anything, they’ve only strengthened that expectation. Though they say that the standard MMO ingredients are also there, those aren’t enough to keep me playing either. Still, it sounds like it could be an absolutely great shared story experience.
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[*:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]Monkey Island[/b:z8xesz8q][/size:z8xesz8q] (PC, X360) (PC, Wii)[/size:z8xesz8q]

The Secret of Monkey Island Special Edition was the most pleasant surprise for me this E3. The Secret of Monkey Island is still one of my all-time favourite games. When I first heard of a remake I was apprehensive as I feared they’d turn it into 3D graphics and “re-envision” the game (much as you get with so many remakes these days). But what I saw after that pretty much allayed my fears, showing that the updated graphics still look very classic (in fact, they match closer to how I remember the game than the actual original graphics) and with the ability to switch between classic and updated mode at will it shows just how true they’re staying to the game. Should be very enjoyable to both people who have played the original and people new to the quirky pirates. Definitely on my must-have list.

Tales of Monkey Island then seems to continue with the Monkey Island goodness by promising a whole new adventure (in five separately bought chapters). Though I care a bit less for the graphics in this one (they did go the 3D route) and wish they’d taken the same graphics approach as the Special Edition, it looks bearable. The real worry here though is that all the Monkey Islands after the first two were not nearly as good; the story wasn’t as strong, the puzzles not as interesting and the characters not as compelling. So I’m taking more of a “wait and see” approach on this one.
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[*:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]Motion Controllers[/b:z8xesz8q][/size:z8xesz8q]

This year’s E3 seemed to be all about motion controllers; devices that allow you to interact with a game by simply moving. Not surprising considering the success Nintendo had with the Wii (and its Wiimote). Nintendo announced the Wiimote Plus, which is basically a small extension for the Wiimote which makes it more accurate. Doesn’t really sound that exciting, but at least should be good, and easy, for those who already have a Wii.

Sony also showed their prototype work for a motion controller, using the EyeToy camera and hand-held motion sticks with colored spheres on top. With this they can achieve an unprecedented precision and depth that puts even the Wiimote Plus to shame. What impressed people most though was Microsoft’s Project Natal which allows for full-body motion control and voice recognition. Their purpose seems to be to remove controllers altogether and allow people to play games simply by moving.

Though I can’t help but be somewhat sceptical at Microsoft’s Project Natal. To begin with the hardware is likely to be quite expensive (I saw an estimate of $200 somewhere). And it looks like it’s fairly imprecise. This seemed particularly apparent when comparing their painting demo to Sony’s; Project Natal seemed to be all about splashing random paint on a canvas (which requires no precision) where Sony’s could do that, and allowed for great precision including writing. As Nintendo’s upgrade to the Wiimote Plus for greater precision shows, lots of games simply require precision to be enjoyable. And thirdly I feel that you lose something if you don’t have that tactile sense anymore. Anyone who’s played an EyeToy game knows that just flapping your hands in the air, while fun, isn’t quite as engaging as having something physical to interact with.

Of course, Project Natal is still very promising. Their own demos, I think, don’t really show the strength of the project. It’s more projects like Peter Molyneux’s Milo that show what could truly be done with it, something that doesn’t work as well with normal interfaces. Instead of trying to place the user inside the game and having them ‘play’ their avatar, use it to allow users to interact directly with the game world as themselves. That said I’m always very sceptical when Peter Molyneux says something as he’s made fantastic promises before that always end up hollow; as he says himself they’re employing a lot of tricks to make it seem like you’re interacting with a real person when really you’re not.

So which is the better solution? I honestly think that they could all have their place and none of them will truly replace gaming as we do it now. The Wii has existed next to other forms of gaming for years without problem and making it “Plus” isn’t going to change that. Sony’s motion controls, once they’re finished, will likely find a lot of good use on the PS3, but it also requires a bit more hardware (both the hand devices and an EyeToy camera) to work. And Microsoft’s Project Natal will undoubtedly see some interesting games and products, perhaps making browsing their menus easier, but it will likely not replace the controller in people’s hands. After all, these devices are about expanding the current gamer market, not about replacing it.

But either way, it seems like there are exciting times ahead.
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[*:z8xesz8q][size=134:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]The Agency[/b:z8xesz8q][/size:z8xesz8q] [size=67:z8xesz8q](PC, PS3)[/size:z8xesz8q]

The Agency sounds like it could be interesting, playing a spy in an MMO environment. Though from the reviews and gameplay videos I’ve seen I find it hard to truly get excited. It doesn’t help that it’s being developed by SOE, who have lost a lot of faith with MMO gamers. I do like the idea of two outfits, an ‘undercover’ one and an ‘active’ one, and they have some decent gameplay mechanics. But overall from what I’ve seen of the E3 material it leaves me underwhelmed and it hasn’t increased my interest at all.
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[*:z8xesz8q][size=134:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]Alan Wake[/b:z8xesz8q][/size:z8xesz8q] [size=67:z8xesz8q](PC, X360)[/size:z8xesz8q]

The Alan Wake demonstration and overall presentation looks quite interesting, but to be honest I’m not quite sure what to think of it. It’s an interesting idea that you first have to clear the ‘darkness shield’ off of enemies before you can kill them, but in the end isn’t that just killing them twice? The artistic style does look quite interesting though and their story approach could be quite good, depending on how good their story actually turns out to be. And I do like this chapter approach of “tonight on Alan Wake”. Makes me wonder if they’re going to release it as episodic content. I doubt I’ll play it in the end, but my interest was definitely increased a bit.
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[*:z8xesz8q][size=134:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]APB[/b:z8xesz8q][/size:z8xesz8q] [size=67:z8xesz8q](PC, PS3, X360)[/size:z8xesz8q]

I was keeping a distant eye on APB (All Points Bulletin) since I first heard of it, though after the very first GTA I didn’t really get into any of the GTA games. But after seeing the [url=http://gamevideos.1up.com/video/id/2497 ... r:z8xesz8q]character customization video[/url:z8xesz8q] this E3 all I can say is: wow! That has to be [i:z8xesz8q]the[/i:z8xesz8q] deepest, most involved character customization I’ve ever seen in any game ever, leaving Cryptic’s (City of Heroes and such) customization far in the dust behind it. There are still many questions about the game itself, but the customization alone would be reason to play it. This game definitely shot up high on my list of anticipated games (particularly anticipated MMOs).
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[*:z8xesz8q][size=134:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]Assassin’s Creed 2[/b:z8xesz8q][/size:z8xesz8q] [size=67:z8xesz8q](PC, PS3, X360, DS)[/size:z8xesz8q]

Though the first Assassin’s Creed looked intriguing I in the end didn’t end up playing it. In part because the main character doesn’t appeal to me and in part because it sounded like a lot of tedious running around doing boring missions. Even so, Assassin’s Creed 2 looks every bit as intriguing as the first and promises to fix at least the second of my worries with the first game. The gameplay looks like it could be quite fun and they promise to tone down on the tedium. So my interest in this title has increased some over E3, but probably not enough to buy it.
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[*:z8xesz8q][size=134:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]Avatar[/b:z8xesz8q][/size:z8xesz8q] [size=67:z8xesz8q](PC, PS3, X360, Wii, DS, PSP)[/size:z8xesz8q]

Maybe I haven’t been paying close enough attention, but I feel like I still don’t know much of anything about this game. I know that it’s based on Cameron’s next movie by the same name, but I’ve no idea what kind of game it actually is. I recall reading something about an alien planet and choosing a mech-oriented side of a more tribal-alien oriented side. But for the rest I feel like I’m still clueless. It is that I didn’t even know the game existed before E3 or else my interest would probably have dropped.
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[*:z8xesz8q][size=134:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]Batman: Arkham Asylum[/b:z8xesz8q][/size:z8xesz8q] [size=67:z8xesz8q](PC, PS3, X360)[/size:z8xesz8q]

I quite like Batman as a superhero, probably because he’s one of the very few who doesn’t actually have any superpowers and because he tends to be a very dark superhero. And the new movies (Batman Begins and Dark Knight) are absolutely fantastic. So I can’t help but be curious about this game. And it does seem like it could be interesting, seeming as you get to play how Batman would (where often they’re more beat-m-up games). Placing it away from the movies also helps. Even so I get the feeling that the more stealth-oriented approach could get boring and a couple of other games seem that they’ll do it better. I’ll probably pass on the game; my interest level hasn’t really changed.
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[*:z8xesz8q][size=134:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]EyePet[/b:z8xesz8q][/size:z8xesz8q] [size=67:z8xesz8q](PS3)[/size:z8xesz8q]

I must say that I found it quite enjoyable to read a comment somewhere saying, regarding EyePet: “Milo, eat your heart out”. Though that’s probably not entirely fair as the two are trying to accomplish different things (EyePet is more like a very advanced Tamagotchi) it does show that Sony was doing the “motion control without a controller” long before Project Natal. And though it is not really my thing, if it works well it could be quite enjoyable to younger players. Interesting concept at least.
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[*:z8xesz8q][size=134:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]Fallout 3 – Point Lookout[/b:z8xesz8q][/size:z8xesz8q] [size=67:z8xesz8q](PC, PS3, X360)[/size:z8xesz8q]

I don’t get the downloadable content with Bethesda’s games. The games themselves are already [i:z8xesz8q]massive[/i:z8xesz8q]; I have yet to finish the main campaign, let alone see everything in the game (though that’s because I haven’t played it in months; too busy with other things). SO I don’t have any of the DLC. Then again, was I to finish it and wish to play further, it’s nice if it’s there. So Point Lookout doesn’t really interest me, the setting doesn’t do anything for me and I’m not really going “yes, I want to play that”. Instead I think I’ll wait to see what Fallout game Obsidian is making (with the Fallout 3 engine I think).
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[*:z8xesz8q][size=134:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]Final Fantasy XIV Online[/b:z8xesz8q][/size:z8xesz8q] [size=67:z8xesz8q](PC, PS3)[/size:z8xesz8q]

The announcement of the next MMO in the Final Fantasy franchise was probably the biggest surprise for me this E3. Though in part probably because they did that directly after showing Final Fantasy XIII footage [i:z8xesz8q]and[/i:z8xesz8q] stating that it’d be released in the same year as XIII. Even so, the original Final Fantasy MMO couldn’t hold my interest much. And with all the MMO’s already out there that interest me much more I’m not really that interested in this one. That might change, but so far I’ll pass.
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[*:z8xesz8q][size=134:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]Heavy Rain[/b:z8xesz8q][/size:z8xesz8q] [size=67:z8xesz8q](PS3)[/size:z8xesz8q]

Heavy Rain is one of those games that tries to bring story to a game, and forgets the game in the process. At least, that’s the impression I get (and based on their previous game Fahrenheit/Indigo Prophecy). It could still be fun if you see it more as an interactive movie and I’d probably play it if I had a PS3, but as is it didn’t do much for my interest. With a number of very cinematic story-based games coming out one has to wonder if it can stand up to them.
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[*:z8xesz8q][size=134:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]The Last Guardian[/b:z8xesz8q][/size:z8xesz8q] [size=67:z8xesz8q](PS3)[/size:z8xesz8q]

Ico is still my absolutely favourite PS2 game; I just [i:z8xesz8q]loved[/i:z8xesz8q] the atmosphere, the characters, the gameplay, the puzzles and guiding Yorda through the levels. Even the combat is how I feel it should be in games: simple and straight-forward, no complicated combinations or lists of complex abilities or anything. Just a stick that you hit enemies with. Conversely I didn’t like Shadow of the Colossus much at all and couldn’t even get past the first Colossus. Though the atmosphere remained it pretty much removed everything else I liked about Ico. So with The Last Guardian being pegged as a cross between the two I can’t help but be hesitant. Even so, the trailer looks absolutely stunning and promises enough or a return to Ico to be enjoyable to me, though I’d rather drag along a cute girl than the malformed gryphon.
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[*:z8xesz8q][size=134:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]ModNation Racers[/b:z8xesz8q][/size:z8xesz8q] [size=67:z8xesz8q](PS3)[/size:z8xesz8q]

If I had a PS3 then this would probably be fairly high on my list. Not because I like racing (which I don’t really), but because I just love custom content and the track editor looks like an absolute joy to use. If you like LittleBigPlanet (which I obviously also can’t play) then you’ll probably like this one as well.
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[*:z8xesz8q][size=134:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]Prototype[/b:z8xesz8q][/size:z8xesz8q] [size=67:z8xesz8q](PC, PS3, X360)[/size:z8xesz8q]

Since I added this one on request and there really wasn’t much on this game coming out of E3 (probably because it’s about to be released shortly and thus there was nothing new to say) I haven’t got anything on this. Except perhaps that I really have no interest at all in this game at this point.
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[*:z8xesz8q][size=134:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]The Saboteur[/b:z8xesz8q][/size:z8xesz8q] [size=67:z8xesz8q](PC, PS3, X360)[/size:z8xesz8q]

I think that The Saboteur can best be summed up as “Assassin’s Creed in World War 2 Paris”, because it looks like exactly the same kind of concept, just with guns instead of melee weapons. Though they’ve got a style of their own style (and seem to be leaning more to the mature side of the ratings). Particularly their color saturation seems interesting where, before you deal with the Germans, a city area might look black-and-white and afterwards it’ll get color and the inhabitants are happier again. And the gameplay looks fun, allowing you to decide your own approach to obstacles and letting you roam free. Beyond that I’m not sure yet what to think, but E3 definitely increased my interest in this title a bit even if I doubt I’ll end up playing it.
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[*:z8xesz8q][size=134:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]Splinter Cell: Conviction[/b:z8xesz8q][/size:z8xesz8q] [size=67:z8xesz8q](PC, X360)[/size:z8xesz8q]

I was never really interested in the Splinter Cell games. They always seemed to look at the Metal Gear games with a distinct “me too”-ism. But Conviction completely changes my mind on that. Now they seem to at least dare and try a new direction for their games, making the title looks distinctly “next-gen” (along with a number of other games I mention, mind). The gameplay seems quick and fun, they’ve got an interesting approach to keeping the player in the game while telling the stories (including how they’re getting rid of the loading screen), and the open approach to the linear objectives and story sounds interesting. So E3 definitely raised my interest, even if I might pass on the title still (I just don’t have enough time to play all these games [i:z8xesz8q]<pouts>[/i:z8xesz8q]).
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[*:z8xesz8q][size=134:z8xesz8q][b:z8xesz8q]Uncharted 2[/b:z8xesz8q][/size:z8xesz8q] [size=67:z8xesz8q](PS3)[/size:z8xesz8q]

Of all the gameplay videos I’ve seen this E3 I think the Uncharted one was the most impressive, from a cinematic point-of-view that is. It’s one of those titles that makes me regret not having a PS3. The game looks absolutely beautiful and the gameplay fun, involved and cinematic. If the entire building you’re in can collapse while you’re in it and gameplay continues, then that’s impressive (and potentially a lot of fun). Though just as the first game I do expect the game to be incredibly short (I haven’t played it, but I think it was less than ten hours); not something I’d buy. Still, interest definitely increased.[/*z8xesz8q][/list:u:z8xesz8q]
Of course this is far from a complete list of titles shown at E3 (or else it’d be even more massive a list). Notably absent perhaps are God of War 3 (I’ve played the first, but that was more than enough God of War ofr me and thus I’ve got zero interest in any sequels) and Alpha Protocol (Obsidian’s Spy RPG which perhaps I [i:z8xesz8q]should[/i:z8xesz8q] like, but everything from the male lead to the treating women as objects has me screaming ‘noooo’). Then there might be games I simply missed or games which didn’t appear at all (Atari didn’t show and neither did Blizzard). So this is really nothing other than a list of games shown at this year’s E3 that caught my attention one way or another.

As they say, your mileage may vary.


Love -x-x-x-

Shir'le

I thought I'd comment on some of the games from E3 (afterall I'm now in college to become a game programmer).

Assassins Creed 2: The game as a whole is incredible, more freedom, and you can somewhat quickly get back into doing what you could in the first. As soon as you get the hidden blade, fun begins. A lot more freedom just the swimming alone helps give new level to stealth attacks. The story continues and the ending of it, makes me wonder even more what is instore, it seems like the mayans, aztevs and incas have a fairly heavy influence mostly with the ending. So many occult symbols including the butterfly effect, the all seeing eye, the dollar trick with the masons name. And so many other things. The most notable is the barcode we saw in the first assassins creed. This as I had seen somewheres has some small relavence to the real world. ironically enough the chip we can have implanted is the big problem we're looking at now. The chip will mark everyone effectively, like we're nothing but a product. Sad really. What you do see in the game is how eizo, has a strong resemblance to Desmond. This is probably due to the fact, we're getting closer to his current lineage. Course they share similar scars and such. As Eizo learns to become an assassin, so does Desmond. As I'm sure will be seen in Assassins Creed 3.

Now.. for Dragon Age Origins... With what little I have played I've enjoyed the game and the story. There's a few flaws such as the graphics could have been better. Even maxing everything out its not beautiful like Oblivion has become. It has similar playstyle from what I've seen with baldurs gate, this is probably because its the age old addage..if its not broke why fix it. Two games that looked incredible so far have left me happy to have spent the 200 dollars on both of them... I'm a collectors edition junkie.