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Plus: Ryder Cup, new cover star, more.

EA Sports has announced that Tiger Woods PGA Tour 11 will be released for iPhone, PS3, Wii and Xbox 360 on 8th June.

What's more, the PS3 version is one of the first games to confirm support for the PS3 Motion Controller, thought to be called Arc.

Tiger 11 also features the Ryder Cup, allowing you to control US or European teams in a variety of scenarios both online and off.

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Some gamers are questioning what version of Final Fantasy XIII should be picked up, the Xbox 360 or the PS3 version? There is some info that may swing gamers towards the PS3 version, that involves FFXIV.

Have you and your squad bought Battlefield: Bad Company 2 yet? If not, you could save $50 by purchasing the BF:BC2 Four Pack through Steam.

It's been said time and time again: when next Tuesday arrives, planet earth will plunge into chaos. God of War III has been hailed as the best looking game of all time, one with the biggest opening set piece of all time and now it's reeking havoc on Amazon's best sellers list.

Take a page from pop culture, when Cartman belts out Lady Gaga's Poker Face, it will be a reality on Rock Band next week as a DLC along with 4 other songs.

Harmonix and MTV Games today announced that a four pack of songs from pop sensation Lady Gaga, as well as a special Lady Gaga cover by COMEDY CENTRAL's South Park's own Eric Cartman will be added next week to the Rock Band Music Store of downloadable content for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system and Wii.

Have you and your squad bought Battlefield: Bad Company 2 yet? If not, you could save $50 by purchasing the BF:BC2 Four Pack through Steam.

Playstation Insider: "Square Enix announced today that Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. and Square Enix will be releasing a selection of special of Final Fantasy XIII items for PlayStation Home on March 11, 2010."

It's been said time and time again: when next Tuesday arrives, planet earth will plunge into chaos. God of War III has been hailed as the best looking game of all time, one with the biggest opening set piece of all time and now it's reeking havoc on Amazon's best sellers list.

British developer Bizarre Creations wants downloadable content for the upcoming racer Blur to be, well as they put it, "massive".

VG247: Eidos Montreal boss Stephanie D'Astous has said there will be a Deus Ex 3 "surprise" coming on Thursday.

SCRAWL: "The latest Famitsu is out and Yakuza 4 has racked in an impressive review score. The weekly Japanese magazine has given the fourth numbered iteration of the action game a thirty-seven out of forty. Review scores were broken down into a 9, 10, 10, and 8. That's pretty damn good, if you ask me."

Namco Bandai is making another Tales Narikiri Dungeon Game, as revealed in the latest issue of weekly jump magazine.

SonyInsight: This week sees the annual Games Developers Conference (GDC 2010) and all eyes on Sony ahead of the event despite the fact that they are not providing a keynote speech. The reason behind this intense interest in Sony is predominantly down to some of the rumours that are currently circulating in online and traditional media.

EA Sports will launch a new version of their popular fitness game this holiday for Wii, PlayStation 3, and iPhone and iPod touch platforms. The company is currently dubbing it EA Sports Active 2.0, though they point out that name is still just a working title for the game.

This new fitness game will feature an "innovative wireless control system" that includes new body motion sensors for your arms and legs, as well as a heart rate monitor. EA Sports Active 2.0 will also take advantage of a new online hub that will track and share your data.

Ex: "$400 is a lot of money. It can buy you a video game console and a controller, more than a year of World of Warcraft subscription time or a couple grams of crack cocaine. Incidentally, all three things are probably a better investment of money than what gamers have recently been dropping $400 on Ebay for -- an entrance key for Blizzard's ongoing beta for the highly anticipated StarCraft II.

Or is it?"

Putting the reboot in.

There's no getting away from it. Yes, the new True Crime game looks a bit like Grand Theft Auto. But the old True Crime games were a bit like Grand Theft Auto, so that comes as no surprise. More intriguing is the longer list of titles from which this new instalment in the series has taken its cues. Burnout, Batman, Ghost Recon, Need for Speed, Mirror's Edge, Assassin's Creed, Ratchet & Clank, Bejeweled... All of these games are referred to during the course of our 45 minute demo, and only the last one as a joke.

Then again, the variety of influences comes as no surprise when you consider the pedigree of the development studio. United Front was established two-and-a-half years ago but most of its employees have been around for a lot longer than that. They came from the likes of EA Black Box, Radical and Rockstar, having worked on games such as Skate, Bully and Prototype. Two of them, producers Stephen Van der Mescht and Jeff O'Connell, have come to the Game Developers Conference to show off True Crime.

They begin by explaining the thinking behind the subtitleless game name. "We're looking at this the same way JJ Abrams handled Star Trek," says Van der Mescht. "It's a reboot of the franchise. We're going back to the beginning, taking it back to ground level and building it up from there."

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Even as many PS3 role-playing gamers have their eyes fixed on Final Fantasy XIII this week, Sony continues to provide new content for another recent JRPG.

Sony announced some cool new additions to White Knight Chronicles today, via a post on the PlayStation Blog. The game already has a wealth of multiplayer quests available to players which help to expand the gaming experience once the campaign concludes. But wait - there's more! Sony is prepping several new multiplayer-focused quests that will go live beginning on Thursday, March 11th – a practice the company hopes to continue through the end of June. To access the new content, you only need to log into the game and check the World Map for new content.

Have you explored the world of White Knight Chronicles? If so, are you ready for some new missions?

If you felt Salem and Rios' trip to Shanghai wasn't long enough, the folks over at EA Montreal are pleased to bring you a fresh dose of DLC. Chapters of Deceit offers greater detail on what's going on in Shanghai, and what the enemy is up to. Along with this you can expect more condensed, tactical firefights and some tough enemies.

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The new "premium" DLC arrives on the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 on April 1st. Despite the release date, let's hope that this new content in no joke.

I like to get my games as soon as possible, especially when it’s a huge release like Final Fantasy XIII. Plenty of like-minded gamers convened around local video game shops last night to grab Square-Enix’s biggest title of the last four years. Game Informer attended one such midnight launch to see how many hardcore Final Fantasy fans turned out, ask them to sound off on the game, snap some photos, and of course, grab our own copies.

Around 9:00pm there were only ten or so dedicated fans camping out for the anticipated release. By 11:00, the gathering swelled to about 30. One among them literally wore his Final Fantasy fandom on his sleeve, dressed as one of the game’s protagonists, Snow. When we asked the cosplayer about his past midnight launch experiences, he told us he’s been to every one since Final Fantasy X.

This devoted fan was the sole person in costume for the event.

When asked about his excitement for Final Fantasy XIII compared to that of Final Fantasy X he said, “That’s a tough one. This one I’m excited for because as soon as I found out the release date I just said ‘oh my god, this is a lot sooner than I though.’”

Many were caught by surprise by FFXIII’s early 2010 release date, but that didn’t stop the line outside GameStop from growing. By 11:15pm I found myself surrounded by about 50 eager gamers. We decided to help them pass the time by asking Final Fantasy-flavored trivia.

“One of the espers, one of the summons from Final Fantasy VI, was called Stray,” began GI’s own Joe Juba. “What was that summon called in later iterations of the game? You would also have seen this name appear, not necessarily as a summon, but as a character somewhere else…”

Not only does Joe [left] delight in trivia questions, he also fancies a good riddle.

The questioned group fell silent, suddenly unconcerned with their previous countdown to midnight.

“That’s the only Final Fantasy I’ve never fully beaten,” one admitted.

“I can’t put a picture to that…” another added.

After much head-scratching and silence, Joe finally revealed that Stray appears as Cait Sith in later Final Fantasy games. “There we go. I don’t have any prizes…” said Joe as he apologetically shrugged his shoulders.

We asked one of the trivia contestants which console they were picking the game up for, and he proudly confirmed it was for PS3. When asked if he ever considered the 360 version he immediately responded with laughter. “No, because the 360 version blows,” he stated matter-of-factly. “That’s the biggest reason. And I don’t want to have three discs. And what is it, like an 18 gigabyte install? Way better on the PS3.”



Intrigued by the kind of brand loyalty that’s usually reserved for the comments section below this very article, we pressed on. “I was pretty pissed,” said the Sony fan we questioned about the E3 announcement of the Xbox 360 version. “It was frickin’ ridiculous.”

“I have to say that Sony just f***** up, as per usual,” chimed in another PlayStation fan rising from the woodwork. “I love Sony, but they have a tendency to screw themselves.”

With the group’s loyalty set in stone, we asked another fan what version of the game he was picking up. “Xbox,” he stated flatly. As if he had uttered a profane obscenity, I glanced over my shoulder to ensure that the Sony fans were a safe distance away. They were. He explained that he had a PS3, but he’d opted for the 360 version to bolster his gamerscore. When asked if he ever considered the PS3 version, he said “it will be better graphics, but I’m not in it for graphics, really. It’s the story for me.”

We questioned another patient gamer why he chose the PS3 version of the game. “I like the controller better, it’s more comfortable for me,” he said. “I own both, so I had the option.” When asked whether he was insulted that FFXIII was coming to 360, he offered the most positive response yet. “No. If it comes out on 360 that’s just more people that you can talk to about it.”

In Minnesota, a midnight launch in 36 degree weather is like a trip to the sun.

As the clock struck 11:45, we noticed the line had extended to about 75 people. With the witching hour rapidly approaching, we remembered that many of these people likely had jobs they’d soon have to be waking up for. We asked one fan how long into the morning he planned on playing Final Fantasy XIII. “I got the day off tomorrow,” he bragged, followed with triumphant laughter. “So… I’ll be playing it forever.”

Indeed, saving the world can take what seems like forever, especially in a lengthy Final Fantasy game. However, many of the Final Fantasy fans in this line were going into the experience fresh, since they had stopped paying attention to news and trailers related to the game long ago. “I gave up two years ago when it was supposed to come out at the end of 2007,” said one fan. Others had purposefully limited their exposure to information on the game to ensure a fresh experience.

Finally, midnight was upon us. As the GameStop employees began ushering in the expectant customers, we realized the line had easily surpassed 100. Also exceeded were our expectations for the triple-A release. It’s not that we didn’t think FFXIII deserved it, but in a world of mega-popular online war shooters and big budget western RPGs, we expected a milder turnout for a Japanese RPG. Even though FFXIII didn’t see the turnout that Modern Warfare 2 did, the substantial line of customers taught us that lumping Final Fantasy in with other JRPGs is folly. Entries in this series, along with its fans, simply stand apart from the rest of the genre.

Here, Final Fantasy fans prepare to bid adieu to their loved ones and social lives.

Following up with an employee we learned that out of 200 preorders, 138 copies of Final Fantasy XIII were claimed during that midnight release. Considering the Roseville location usually sees about 40 percent of their preorder customers for midnight releases, Final Fantasy had an above average midnight launch.

Were you among those who began the journey into Pulse at midnight this morning?

[GameStop is the parent company of Game Informer]

Today NBC Universal and Bigpoint have announced that Battlestar Galactica Online, browser-based MMO based on the popular series, is coming this fall. BGO will launch exclusively on Syfy.com for a 30-day period and can be played directly in your internet browser. It is currently under development by Norwegian dev studio, Artplant. Check out the teaser website here.

"Battlestar Galactica is a supremely gameable intellectual property, with compelling character classes, a fantastic array of ships and weaponry, multiple worlds, and a dramatic storyline," said Bill Kispert, VP & GM, Digital Platforms, Universal Partnerships & Licensing. "We are excited to work with Bigpoint – and our partners at Universal Cable Productions and Syfy – to bring an epic, accessible, and ‘always on’ BSG experience to fans of the franchise and online gamers alike."

Players will get to choose between cylons or humans, engage in space combat and play through a mission-based structure. The companies promise an authentic experience. No other details have been released.

"Cooperation between Bigpoint and NBC Universal is a very important strategic step for us," explains Heiko Hubertz, CEO and founder of Bigpoint. "Battlestar Galactica has a huge and passionate fan base. We are proud to be able to publish such an internationally famous title as one of our online games. For the first time ever, we're relying completely on Unity in order to offer our users fantastic game graphics right in their browsers."

In the battle between cylons and humans, what side will you choose?

This week's downloadable offerings are enumerated and described for your reading edification and enjoyment.

WiiWare plays hosts to a brand new hero in this week's release. Max & the Magic Marker tells the charming tale of a little boy hero and his adventures through his coloring book, along with the aid of a magic marker that lets him solve problems with his imagination. Sharing many commonalities with 5th Cell's Drawn to Life, Max is a simple platformer with some unique ideas. The game is all yours for 1000 Wii Points ($10), and is available now. Our full review of the game will be available later this week.

For gamers wanting a slightly darker tone out of their Wii purchase this week, WiiWare will also play host to Dracula – Undead Awakening. With machine guns, flamethrowers, and other weapons, you'll take out the forces of the undead for 1000 points ($10) on Wii. Want a portable option? The game is also available on DSiWare this week for 500 points ($5).

While we don't always highlight Virtual Console releases here, it's also worth nothing that Final Fantasy II is arriving to the Wii this week. 800 points ($8) will buy you one of the best-loved early console RPGs. The game, which released on SNES as Final Fantasy II, was actually the fourth installment of the long-running series. Collectors have been known to pay large sums for the original cartridges - the Virtual Console version delivers the same fateful journey for a much more reasonable price tag.

Xbox Live Arcade continues its focused push for March with the release of Scrap Metal. Slick Entertainment's car combat game mixes the old school charm of R.C. Pro-Am with the explosive destruction of Twisted Metal. As you upgrade cars and compete in races and arenas, this top down action/racer aims to deliver adrenaline-fueled driving, both on and offline. The game releases tomorrow, March 10. Tickets to the destruction derby will put you back 1200 Microsoft points ($15). Our full review of the game will be available later this week.

After his recent debut on the Wii, Mega Man 10 is moving on to PlayStation Network this week. Thursday, March 11th will find the blue bomber shooting his way through Dr. Wily's nefarious new robot masters. You can join him for $9.99, or check out our review of the game right here.

In addition, a late announcement last week brought news of the second episode of Topatoi releasing on PlayStation Network. The game has players navigating a gyroscopic top as it spins its way through puzzles and platforms. The second episode requires the first episode to play – the original installment and the new expansion each cost $7.99.

Are you enjoying Microsoft's block party month so far? On which system will you play Mega Man 10? Any other titles catch your eye this week?

It launched today - but what did the critics think?.
As you might have heard, there's been some rumblings about Final Fantasy XIII reviews of late.

Click here to read the full article

New FAQs, cheats and walkthroughs added

Movies-on-demand service may be coming to the handheld.
A recent survey question by US movie rental company, Netflix, has suggested the company plans to release a movies-on-demand service for the Nintendo DS, similar to the one it already provides for the Xbox 360 and PS3.

Click here to read the full article

If you haven't visited the PlayStation Network's video store lately, today's a great day to swing on over. Sony today announced that it's the first to deliver HD movies from each of the six major movie studios, including content from 20th Century Fox, Walt Disney Pictures, Paramount Pictures, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Universal Pictures, and Warner Bros. Digital Distribution.

Here are some of the highlights:
20th Century Fox – “Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian”, “Jennifer’s Body” and “Fantastic Mr. Fox” (coming March 23)
Walt Disney Pictures – Disney Pixar’s “Up,” Jerry Bruckheimer’s “G-Force,” and Disney’s “Earth”
Paramount Pictures – “Star Trek,” “Paranormal Activity,” and “Zoolander”
Sony Pictures – “This Is It,” “2012,” “District 9,” and “Zombieland”
Universal – “Inglourious Basterds,” “Couples Retreat,” and “Public Enemies”
Warner Bros. Digital Distribution – “The Hangover,” “Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince,” and “The Wizard of Oz”

What do you think? Do you use your console to watch movies? If so, is the Netflix content enough to keep you happy, or do you find yourself paying a premium to download specific titles?

The Boy Wonder to appear alongside Batman in sequel to one of 2009’s biggest surprises?

According to IMDB.com’s listing for Batman: Arkham Asylum 2 (360/PS3), actor Vincent Martella will be playing the part of Robin in the upcoming sequel.

IMDB is editable by a wide variety of people, so the information isn’t not the most reliable, but there’s evidence to support the claim.  In the post itself it is noted that Martella has experience in voice acting, including work on Final Fantasy XIII (360/PS3), and he’s playing the part of Robin, the Jason Todd version, in the upcoming direct-to-DVD Batman: Under the Red Hood.

Due to the complexities of the Batman universe, the integration of the original title’s loosely based interpretation of the graphic novel, and the lack of details we have for Arkham Asylum 2, Martella could feasibly voice any of the three Robins.  Hell, Arkham Asylum 2 is only the working title, the game might not be in Arkham at all.

Batman: Arkham Asylum 2 (360/PS3) is being developed by the studio responsible for the greatest Batman game ever, Rocksteady Studios.  Former publisher Eidos is no longer in the deal due to Warner Bros.’s increased presence in the video game industry.

The IMDB listing also reveals that much of the original voice cast will reprise their roles.

Batman: Arkham Asylum (360/PS3) will be returning in March with a Game of the Year edition.

Ten new InstantAction maps now available

New Need For Speed Shift DLC is racing towards release on March 18 for PS3 and 360. The Exotic Racing Series pack will include seven new cars, one new track, more than 50 new events, and new achievements and trophies.

For $10 or 800 Microsoft points you'll get the following fancy rides and the new Riviera track:

-Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione
-BMW M1 Procar
-GUMPERT apollo
-Honda NSX
-McLaren MP4-12C
-Maserati GranTurismo S
-Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Stirling Moss (seen above)

Sony signs six major studios to provide content.
Sony has announced it has acquired high definition movies from six major studios for distribution over the PlayStation Network.

Click here to read the full article

Music title to "revolutionise" the music genre.
Viacom CEO Philippe Dauman has confirmed that Harmonix is working on Rock Band 3, which is set for a worldwide release "this holiday season".

Click here to read the full article

Use your brains as the ultimate weapon to fight a war of perception where the ability to deceive and mislead the enemy determines success

Copy protection driver compatibility update fixed

3D game engine toolset available for free

Former embezzlement evidence against Baltimore politician on auction site.
An Xbox 360 that served as evidence to impeach a Baltimore Mayor on embezzlement charges in 2008 is now on sale through Ebay.

Click here to read the full article

1:15 of gameplay footage

1:41 of cinematic and gameplay footage

EA has just announced that the Exotic Racing Series pack for Need for Speed: Shift is scheduled for release worldwide on March 18th for both the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions.

The new Need for Speed: Shift Exotic Pack DLC will present players with seven new cars and the new Riviera track that will be available to download via the PlayStation Network for $10, and on Xbox Live for800 Microsoft Points.

The Exotic Raving pack DLC will include over 50 new events that have been created specifically for the cars including time challenges, endurance and sprint races.  The Riviera track features four unique layouts, each designed to push these cars to the limit.  Players that get the chance t complete the package will receive an additional 125 Microsoft gamer points or 5 PlayStation Trophies as a reward.

The Exotic Racing Series Pack Cars Will Include:

But PGA Tour 11 won't work with Natal.
Electronic Arts has announced that Tiger Woods PGA Tour 11 will feature The Ryder Cup and will support Sony's new motion controller.

Click here to read the full article

Sony motion controller also supported.
Electronic Arts has announced that Tiger Woods PGA Tour 11 will feature The Ryder Cup and will support Sony's new motion controller.

Click here to read the full article

Tecmo Koei of Europe has announced that it will be releasing Dynasty Warriors: Strikeforce free DLC on both the PS3 and Xbox 360 this Easter.

The Dynasty Warriors: Strikeforce free DLC will be released in four packs, which will be distributed each week until the middle of April.  Each pack will feature three new missions and a new challenge, and will extend the games replay value.

According to Will Curley of VP Sales & Marketing for Tecmo Koei Europe, he was quoted by saying: “Dynasty Warriors: Strikeforce has been a tremendous success for us at Tecmo Koei Europe, so we wanted to give something back to the fans this Easter.”

He also added: “From the Battle of Tong Gate, to the epic Defense of Yi, we want players to engage with Dynasty Warriors: Strikeforce over the Easter break, and free weekly content is a great way of saying thank you.”

Dynasty Warriors: Strikeforce Free DLC Release Dates:

The designer behind Black is back, and Codemasters has taken the cover off the FPS.

First discussed in mid-February, Codemasters is finally ready to talk about the spiritual successor to 2006’s Black (PS2/Xbox).  Stuart Black, and his new team inside Codemasters’ Guildford Studio, are hard at work on Bodycount.

The title is described by its creator as a “techno thriller” and will be set within a “clandestine global power struggle.”  Bodycount will feature online cooperative and multiplayer modes.

Black and his team was originally working on a different project before starting Bodycount.  The choice was made to focus on Bodycount because of the team’s personal desire.  Black explained that “we had this itch about this type of shooter we wanted to play, that we just couldn’t buy. Our big headline is that we want to put the fun back into shooting — we want this game to be outrageous fun with a gun.”

To do that, the game will put a heavy emphasis on destructible environments to remove that whack-a-mole feel of today’s shooters.  “Our shredding tech enables us to create a different kind of gameplay, where players and AI can’t hide behind indestructible cover and rely on whack-a-mole mechanics. Here the environment is constantly changing as the game world is shot to hell; it’s going to be a huge amount of fun” said Black.

The game will be powered by a modified Ego Engine, last seen in Operation Flashpoint: Dragon Rising (360/PS3).  Split/Second (360/PS3) Senior Producer Andrew Wilson is also working on the title.

Bodycount has been in development for “about nine months.”  Thus we will have to wait until Q1 of 2011 to blow crap up.  Publisher Codemasters is best known for its contributions to the world of racing, including GRID (360/PS3) and DiRT (360/PS3).

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Last week we reported that NHL 2K11 is going to be a Wii exclusive title, now 2K Sports has officially announced NHL 2k11, along with the signing of alternate captain for the Vancouver Canucks Ryan Kesler.

2K Sports decided to release NHL 2K11 only on the Wii this year, because the series had seen greater critical success with NHL 2K10 on Wii than on the other platforms, which included the PS2, PS3 and Xbox 360.  The Wii version includes Mii support, online play and support for Wii MotionPlus.

In addition to officially announcing NHL 2K11 exclusively for Wii, 2K Sports has signed Vancouver Canucks Ryan Kesler to be featured as the cover athlete and spokesman for the game.  Kesler captured the collective attention of sports fans around the world with his gritty 2010 Winter Olympics performance, and will now look to bring the same exciting action to NHL 2K11.

The NHL 2K series returns to PS3 and Xbox 360 in 2011.  So hockey fans looking for their hockey fix this year will only be able to play NHL 2K11 on Wii, as it is scheduled for release in fall of this year.

Add 10 of the world's best cars.

Forza Motorsport 3 has gained a new batch of cars courtesy of the Jalopnik DLC.

A meaty 10 new motors are up for grabs: a Mazda, a Jaguar, a Ford, an Aston Martin, a Porsche, a Bugatti, a BMW, an Audi, another Aston Martin and a Honda.

I thought I'd spare you the extraneous numbers and letters and just link straight to pictures. Better that way.

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Photo by: Juliana Coutinho

Since the launch of the new D&D rules, I have seen a lot of talk online (and heard a lot of talk in person) about the Pros and Cons of 4e. Some people are in love with the system and are super-excited for each new book release that WotC has planned. Some would rather eat glass than try and figure out when to use their Daily Powers. I don’t use 4e for a variety of reasons, but I am ecstatic that WotC made changes to the game that I love. Let me explain.

It gets more people playing table-top RPGs

Whether you love or hate the new rules, I think it is undeniable: more people are playing D&D than ever before. The aspects of the new rules that make D&D feel more like an MMO are some of the same things that are drawing in new players. In today’s most common type of gaming (video games), players are used to having a lot of choice when it comes to how they structure their characters, they seem to want defined roles for those characters, and they want to feel like there is always something that they can do. It makes no sense to them that there might be level restrictions for certain races, or that an Elf can’t be a Druid or a Ranger (old-school reference, I know, but the point stands). The 4e rules appeal to the video game aesthetic that so many of us enjoy on our computers and consoles, and brings it to the tabletop. That makes D&D appeal to a wider based of potential players, and I will never complain about more people playing tabletop RPGs.

It’s polarizing, and all gamers have an opinion about it

Nothing makes a person work hard on something than a set of passionate feelings. For those that love 4e, the game market is beginning to see a nearly staggering array of materials for 4e. WotC is supporting the product line with 2-3 books a month, the revival of classing settings and a plethora of options for everyone who who relishes the changes that have been wrought in D&D. When people love something, they spend money on it, they talk about it, and they get more people to play and that… well, see my first point.

If you’re part of the group who can’t stand the new changes, then you rant and rave against them. You talk negatively the new product and when you find a different product that you like more, you spend money on it, talk about it, and you get more people to play and that… wait, see what I did there? Maybe you even go out and design your own game system and a whole bunch of new players come to the hobby. If that happens because you were motivated by your dislike of 4e, then take a moment and thank WotC for giving you a push.

No matter what side of the “4e argument” a gamer comes down on, most of us feel very strongly about the game system we like the most. If that causes us to support Pathfinder, Palladium, Savage Worlds, Shadowrun, Storyteller, 1e, 2e, 3e, 3.5e, or the new 4e, what really matters, what is the most important thing is that people are playing RPGs. I am sure that I speak for many gamers when I say that, for a good long while, I hesitated when people asked what I was doing on Saturday night and the answer was D&D. Now, not so much. More people are playing than ever before, and the broad spread of 4e has helped that. No matter what system is being used, I call that a good thing.

Technorati Tags: Dungeons and Dragons, geek, geeks, Role Playing Games, rpg

Troll in the Corner.

Related posts:

1. DO’s and DON’T’s for Players and GM’s Alike
2. Creating Intrigue in a Campaign
3. Dealing With Problem Players

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Post tags: Dungeons and Dragons, geek, geeks, Role Playing Games, rpg

2K Games has announced that it has signed a license agreement with Playboy Magazine, for a new in-game integration that will use more than 50 of the magazine’s Vintage Covers and Centerfolds in the upcoming Mafia II, developed by 2K Czech.

Mafia II takes players into the fictitious mob underworld of the late 1940’s and early 1950’s.  The game features high octane gunplay with intense driving and an engaging narrative.  The games cinematic Hollywood movie feel will make players feel like they are part of the story, engaging in a living breathing city.

The main character Vito, who was born to a poor immigrant, is looking to escape the life of poverty that consumed his childhood.  Vito is soon lured away by the power and wealth that a life of Organized Crime can bring.  Vito, along with his childhood friend Joe, will descend into the world of Organized Crime together, where they will work to prove themselves to the Mob as they try to make their names on the streets of a cold and unforgiving city.

According to Christoph Hartmann, President of 2K Games explains: “While most mob-inspired games emphasis is solely on action, Mafia II features a deep and compelling narrative that is embellished with a sophisticated, era-evoking atmosphere.  “In partnering with Playboy, we are able to add a unique element of authenticity to the game by using vintage images from the magazine that illustrate the power of Playboy’s influence on the attitudes and culture of that generation.”

Jimmy Jellinek, Playboy Magazine’s Editorial of  Director said: ”Mafia II is set when Playboy first came into vogue and features characters whose style and attitudes mirror content from our early issues.  We’re excited to bring an element of authenticity to the game that is unmatched in the men’s publishing category.”

This comes to prove that not only does violence sell games, but the inclusion of sex combined with violence is what many companies are doing these days to attract gamers.

Mafia II is scheduled for release on PS3 and Xbox 360 this year.

Mafia II Boom Boom Boom Trailer:

Sega has just announced the first DLC to be made available for Aliens vs. Predator on Xbox 360 in Europe on March 18th.

Aliens vs. Predator which was developed by Rebellion, lets players take the role of the three infamous species which include: The Colonial Marine, The Predator and the Alien.  Each of the three species has its very own distinct story-driven single-player campaign mode that crosses with the campaigns of the other two species.  The game features a unique 3-way online multiplayer, where players put all three species to battle against each other.

Aliens vs. Predator has proven to be a ‘Critical Success‘ for Sega, and they are continuing that success by announcing the first ever DLC titled Swarm Map Pack, and also possible talks of a sequel.

The Swarm Map Pack DLC includes: Two new Multiplayer maps for six different online modes (Deathmatch, Predator Hunt, Infestation, Species Deathmatch, Mixed Species Deathmatch and Domination):   

Shotgun Diaries is a little RPG from the award winning game designer John Wick which appeared last fall. It features all your classic zombie tropes in a small, incredibly lightweight package. I came across it when I was looking to do a zombie themed horror game and at $5 I just couldn’t resist giving it a shot.

The Product:

The game is only about 15 pages long and is written in a kind of journal style with blood droplets and a handwritten font. Unfortunately the book has no pictures and is available as a PDF only. The lack of art does add to the feeling that the book is a journal that some survivors picked up somewhere, although it is not written in the narrative style of White Wolf products. Definitely nothing call home about here but at least it doesn’t take much ink to print a copy out.

The System:

Shotgun Diaries features an incredibly simple system that essentially boils down to “If there are zombies you must roll a d6. If you get a 6 you describe how things go, otherwise the GM does. If there are no zombies anyone can freely narrate the story.”

Character creation consists of picking an archetype which fits the roles seen in traditional zombie movies (The helpless survivor, the sneaky survivor, etc.) and giving your character a name. This makes character creation quick and easy. Advancement is also interesting. Anyone who survives the day gets to write in their journal. This consists of a paragraph or two and the player may underline one sentence and this becomes true for the story. This could be something you learned from another character, a memory, or something that occurred during the day.

A couple of other nifty features are The Zombie Clock, which increases every 10 minutes and represents the growing horde, and the fear system. The Zombie Clock adds suspense as well as giving the GM points to spend on story complications (An intelligent zombie, a broken weapon, power outage, etc.). The fear system affects the players when they see something horrific, like having their buddy turn into a zombie. It looks good on paper but I found we were constantly forgetting about it during the game.

A final thing I should mention is that the rules specifically cover players turning into zombies. The great thing about this is that it ties into the zombie clock. After a player has been bitten the GM can spend some of his Zombie Clock points to turn them at any time. This is great for two reasons. First the players know that they could turn at any time but the GM decides when. This is a great way to use the meta game to affect the tension and mood. The second thing is that the turned player gets to play as the zombie. How fun is that?

How it Plays:

I sat down to play SD with 2 players and myself as the GM for a total of 3. This was a little less than we were expecting but the game still went over smoothly. It took a little while for the players to adjust to being able to affect the plot and even define what they discover in empty rooms. Another problem was the player’s tendency to find firearms everywhere. Both of these problems could be easily fixed with further plays, and the second requires the players to get out of the combative mindset of other systems.

Actually GMing the game was a bit different as well. It is nice to not have to prep for a game but at the same time it can be tough to come up with good descriptions, names, etc. on the fly. I did sit down and prepare a number of possible events, however because the players could define things they ran into it didn’t see much use. The Zombie Clock was absolute blast to use. The aspect of increasing the number as the players are discussing their options really adds an element of suspense to the game and the ability to add complications to things is absolutely necessary in a game where the players can call so many of the shots. One thing I wish I had was a stack of zombie miniatures to use as counters for the clock rather than a d20. I think the visual element would have added a lot.

Our game lasted about 3 hours, not counting the time it took to go over the rules and just generally get settled. During that time the players escaped a cabin they took refuge in, traveled across America while fighting off zombies left and right, and became entangled with an evil corporation called Gencorp. Eventually the players stole a small airplane and headed to West Coast to escape the continent. The plot may have been a bit cliché, but the collaborative nature of the storytelling meant that none of us new what was coming next and the game really felt like we were playing through a zombie film.

Verdict:

Shotgun Diaries is fun. It is great to just pick up and play, especially if you don’t have time to prepare for a full blown adventure for another game. I’ll certainly be pulling this game out a few more times at least, preferably after watching a zombie movie or two. If you like zombies and the idea of a more collaborative style RPG then it certainly won’t hurt you to try out this game. If you aren’t a zombie fan or don’t like the idea of a more improvised game you might want to stay away. All things said, definitely worth $5.

You can download a copy of Shotgun Diaries up at either www.indiepressrevolution.com or www.drivethrurpg.com.

Technorati Tags: Role Playing Games, Zombies, Indie RPGs, Review

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Post tags: Indie RPGs, review, Role Playing Games, zombies

My all time favorite game for the DS is just about to get a new installment.  Scribblenauts was one of the few games that ate up more than three or four hours on my DS and actually caused a bit of ire between my wife and I as we made desperate run/jumps for it after the kids went to bed.

Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment announces plans to create the next Scribblenauts for Nintendo DS, a follow-up to the revolutionary hit videogame where players use their imagination to write any word, bring that object to life and use it to solve puzzles. Available in fall 2010, the follow-up game expands the innovative elements from the acclaimed first title with many inventive new features, including an adjectives system that allows players to push the limits of their imagination to create their own experience.

In this new game created and developed by 5TH Cell, players use the stylus and touch screen to help Maxwell, the game’s hero, acquire the “Starite,” the prize earned from solving the puzzle in even more robust challenges and redesigned levels. Players now have the ability to write any object that comes to mind and modify it in any way they desire using adjectives to reach the goal in each level. Adjectives can change the colour, size, elements, behaviours and many other aspects of the object they are describing. Multiple adjectives can be combined together to produce incredibly creative objects, allowing the player’s imagination to run wild for a truly unique and individualistic experience.

“The Scribblenauts sequel gives all players an enhanced game experience they will love and new challenges where they can use their imaginations even more,” said Samantha Ryan, Senior Vice President, Development and Production, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. “5TH Cell is a very talented and creative developer and we are excited to add to the Scribblenauts franchise with this new game.”

“The next Scribblenauts broadens the players’ experience from the first Scribblenauts through more creativity, innovation and in-depth gameplay,” said Jeremiah Slaczka, Creative Director and Co-Founder of 5TH Cell. “All of these enhancements give players even greater control over how they want to play the game.”

The new Scribblenauts game will offer more words, more creativity and limitless possibilities for gamers of all ages.

Technorati Tags: scribblenauts, video games, nintendo, ds

Troll in the Corner.

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Post tags: DS, Nintendo, Scribblenauts, Video Games

I first played Dungeons and Dragons when I was 13, but my appreciation for the hobby really developed when I was in high school. My high school had a science fiction and fantasy club, which I was a member of for all four years, and president my senior year. Though the intent of the club was originally as a place for students to share their interests in books and movies, it eventually turned into my own recruitment pool for role playing games.

My favorite memories from high school were the days I’d come in to a club meeting with all of my Cyberpunk 2020 books, 20 photocopied character sheets, and a spiral-bound graph paper notebook, and set up a table after our club meeting. Anyone who wanted to could come up and make a character. Of course, this was never a productive way to play a game, but that wasn’t entirely the point. Lots of people were interested in this game, and some days I’d have ten to twelve people sitting around, puzzling over the character sheets and asking me questions. I think, over the two years that I did this consistently, I played maybe two full sessions. But that was OK.

Having that forum to teach people about role playing games was a great benefit to me, because no matter what setting or situation I’m in, I end up teaching people to play games if I want to play myself. Having an interest in games like Cyberpunk 2020 and GURPS means that, at best, I’ll walk into a room of people who know how to play D&D. If I’m not interested in playing D&D, I’ll have to teach people a new system. And thanks to my experiences in high school, I know how to do that.

Gamers are a closed-off group in some ways, though many of the stereotypes that used to surround Dungeons and Dragons and games of its ilk are beginning to lift. This is a perfect time to expose others to the hobby. At the very least, you’ll  give someone a better understanding of the hobby. At best, you may have a new addition for your gaming group.

Recently “Read an RPG Book in Public Week” ended, and I think this is a great event for trying to bring tabletop gaming into the public eye. In my opinion though, there is more to be done. More people have to be given opportunities to learn how to play, and explore the hobby. And it’s current gamers who will do this.

In Pittsburgh, the Carnegie Library in Oakland has held D&D games in the past as part of their teen department event series. Events like this are a great way to introduce people to role playing games, and give people the sort of opportunities to play that I had in high school. If your local library has events and lectures, ask about volunteering to run a game day. It’s both a great way to introduce people to the hobby, and a way to give back to the community as a whole. And this is by no means the only way to do it: we’re a creative bunch, and I’m sure that people can come up with many great ideas that I haven’t.

Read an RPG Book in Public Week ended on March 6^th. But that doesn’t mean it’s the only time of the year to bring the hobby out in the open, and show others how engaging and how much fun it can be.

Technorati Tags: Role Playing Games

Troll in the Corner.

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Post tags: Role Playing Games

Troll in the Corner.

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Post tags: Board and Card Games, Runewars, wargames

Over the last few days you certainly have noticed a number of new posts featuring new authors.  I recently put out a query asking if anyone was interesting in having their say on Troll in the Corner.  The response was wonderful and I think you’re really going to enjoy the sudden wealth of entertaining and fresh new talent you’ll be seeing over the next few weeks.

Most of these new articles will focus on Role Playing Games and other table top excursions although wandering into other areas of Science Fiction and Fantasy may occur.  I’d like to welcome all of our new authors and give them all a hearty thanks.  You’re only going to improve this site and the online RPG community!

If you’re a reader of Troll in the Corner and interested in adding to our expanded RPG coverage or perhaps writing about other topics such as SF/Fantasy literature, movies or video games, use the handy Contact form and drop me a line.

My own RPG project, Aruneus has been sidelined for the week as I work behind the scenes to get our new authors settled and publishing.  I expect to return to developing my world next week.

A big nod to the folks at Dead Gentlemen Productions for the Gamers: Dorkness Rising image.  If you have not seen the movie, do so now.  You’ll love it.

Technorati Tags: troll in the corner, role playing games, rpg

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Post tags: Role Playing Games, rpg, Troll in the Corner

DO know the rules.  It is everyone’s responsibility to make sure the game runs smoothly.  If you are a player, know what is applicable to your character.  This goes double for a new system.  Make note of important source-book pages, or type the rules up and keep them with your character sheet, so you aren’t constantly wasting time delving into the books for the information you need.  If you are the GM, know the rules that apply to your players, and others besides, but don’t be afraid to alter rules that don’t make sense, or don’t suit the game.  The most important thing is, if you alter rules, be consistent.

DON’T argue.  If you are a player, and you feel the GM has made an error in a ruling, bring it up only once.  If the GM does not change his ruling, let it go and roll with it.  If you are the GM, don’t get drawn into an argument with your players.  Make a ruling, and stick to it.  Don’t allow yourself to get bullied into changing your ruling because of a player’s whining.

DO take notes.  Not pages and pages of them, but write down important names, places, and events.  It is difficult to get immersed in a game if a player is giving an impassioned speech to “What’s-his-nuts,” or the GM forgets the name of an NPC he invented on the spot.  Taking notes also eliminates questions like “Wait, what’s this place called again?” and phrases like, “That guy from that one time.”

DON’T be an attention-whore.  This covers a lot of kinds of behavior.  Don’t be a comedian.  This is not to say that you can’t say funny things, but hunting constantly for a punch line (which usually isn’t funny) makes you look like you can’t be happy unless people are looking at you and laughing.  Don’t be overbearing in your role-playing.  If you are in a leadership position, fine, but you don’t always have to have the last word, the witty comeback, the big speech, the loudest battle-cry, or all of the screen time.  Don’t discard people’s ideas because you didn’t think of them first.  If you are the GM, remember that this is their story as well as yours, and make sure to strike an enjoyable balance between a plot-driven and character-driven story.

DO know your group.  If you are the GM, understand that some systems and some settings just don’t appeal to everyone.  If you have a fairly rowdy group, running a gritty horror game will be frustrating for both GM and players.  Know how much your players like to lead and be led.  You are there to run a fun game, and you don’t do that by running something your players actively hate.  As a player, know your GM, and be ready to try something new.  If you’ve been playing D&D 3.5 for the past year, and the GM wants to run a short arc of Feng Shui for something different, make an honest effort to work with the style and atmosphere the GM is going for.  Odds are, you’ll enjoy yourselves once you get into the groove of a new game.

DO comment, and stay tuned for more articles.

Technorati Tags: Role Playing Games, Advice, rpg

Troll in the Corner.

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© Mati for Troll in the Corner, 2010. | Permalink | 2 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: Advice, Role Playing Games, rpg