At Last: Final Fantasy XIII
March 9, 2010 by Gamestar · Leave a Comment
Today we witness the release of one of the most highly anticipated games of the decade; Final Fantasy XIII. This title was actually first teased at way back in 2006, so the long road to release has been staggering. Well, that wait is finally over and we can all sit down to what will surely be the gaming event of the year.
Released in December over in Japan, Final Fantasy XIII has actually amassed a little controversy since its unveling, and the reviews received for the game haven't quite been the straight aces developers Square Enix were hoping for. The main reason for this is that Final Fantasy XIII has quite drastically revised the fundamental gameplay associated with the franchise, and indeed the RPG genre as a whole. Gone are NPCs, interactive towns and an instantly open world.
| Final Fantasy XIII |
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| Retail Price: $59.99 |
| Amazon Price: $59.99 |
Instead, Final Fantasy XIII is a lot more linear and story driven. Players follow quite a tightly set path for the first 25 hours or so of play. Following this, the gameplay opens up and players are free to follow their own choices a little more. This has been a major gripe amongst some, whereas others welcome the more focussed and cinematic approach. It really does depend on your preference.
One element which has been universally applauded is the combat system, which is made up of an innovative mesh of X and XII. Players are now able to 'stack' actions, and the more you can stack increases as you level up. Furthermore, in Final Fantasy XIII there are various different roles your characters can play, such as healer and tank, and gamers are free to shift these roles during fights.
It goes without saying that the graphics in this title are breathtaking. Presentation has always been Square Enix's strongpoint, and the franchise has always offered top range visuals. Being the first of the franchise to hit the next gen consoles, Final Fantasy XIII is, without a doubt, the best looking videogame ever. The cut scenes are so detailed and beautiful you'll want to stare at them all day, and the in-game graphics are good enough to rival the FMVs of lesser games.
Throw in an undoubtedly epic storyline, and you have the biggest game of the year. It may be a little different to what you're used to, but overall Final Fantasy XIII is just what everyone's been waiting for. Masterful combat, achingly beautiful visuals and a guartenteed 60+ hours of gameplay mean Final Fantasy is back with a vengeance. Let the adventure begin.
The End Of The Xbox Halo Franchise As We Know It
February 18, 2010 by Gamestar · Leave a Comment
Halo: Reach is the forthcoming (and final) chapter from current developer studio Bungie, bringing to an end their reign over the Xbox Halo franchise. Set in 2552 on the human planet Reach, and players once more adopt the Spartan colours as Noble 6 and, along with Noble Squad, the gamer will have to defend their planet from the terror that is the Covenant. However, Halo: Reach is a prequel to Bungie's first award winning "Halo: Combat Evolved" title.
Originally designed to be an improved version of the Xbox Halo franchise entry Halo 3, the notion was dropped, Bungie stating they would redesign and improve the quality of the Halo 3 designs. Harking back to the Halo: Combat Evolved concept ideas, this effectively means the new weapon, armour and covenant designs in Halo: Reach will deviate greatly from prior entries but uphold the ethos of the Xbox Halo franchise.
Hinting that Bungie will not cap the Xbox Halo franchise without a bang, the producers are looking to dramatically increase the graphical quality of all gaming areas, even including the weaponry. This clearly required Bungie to create a fresh new engine in Halo: Reach, with the AI augmented and nudged to provide better support for the player as they battle the Covenant.
So after all these promises of fusing greatly refined graphics and improved AI and designs, will Bungie leave the Xbox Halo franchise with a bang and cement their reputation for producing the best FPS for the Xbox 360? The only way to find out is to grab a copy when it is released later this year!
Xbox 360 Virtual Arcade!
January 28, 2010 by Gamestar · Leave a Comment
Microsoft are continually venturing to make the Xbox Live experience as fun and interactive as they can for existing users and newcomers to the system. As the possibilities grow, Microsoft are able to promote various awesome features online, such as Twitter, Sky and Netfix. Amongst the noteworthy and exciting approaching projects is Xbox 360 virtual arcade, which is garnering much excitement from users.
Microsoft are building upon the ability to play classic games online by developing the new Xbox 360 virtual arcade. The intention is to re-introduce certain titles which many older and sentimental game-players would like to revisit. Whilst a lot of those games may appear simplistic or maybe comical to the audience of today, Microsoft state that many are still awesome titles worth looking into.
Examples of the titles lined up for this feature include such classics as Rocket Knight, Centipede, Streets of Rage and even fan fave Asteroids. These games will mean absolutely everything to those players who grew up with them, and offer a nice aside to the bigger games of our day. The Xbox 360 virtual arcade even offers gamers their very own interactive arcade room. When a player buys one of these classic titles, they are able to place it anywhere in the arcade, and they even appear in the classic arcade machines!
Lastly, Microsoft's new feature is completely interactive, so gamers can ask their buddies to visit and play in their own arcade. Voice chat is included together with avatars, leaderboards, multiplayer features and more. In exchange for Microsoft points you are able to forge your very own Xbox 360 virtual arcade, and sample some classic games with your pals!
A Sneak peek At The Xbox 360 Project Natal
January 19, 2010 by Gamestar · Leave a Comment
Following hot on the heels of the Wii's motion sensing technology, Microsoft hope to take this one better with Xbox 360 Project Natal. Revealed during 2009's E3 meeting, this add-on accessory for the Xbox 360 is said to allow completely controller-free interaction with games, sensing movement and translating that as controls in the title.
Xbox 360 Project Natal is said to be available around the end of 2010, and Microsoft hope that the accessory will become a vital part of all existing Xbox consoles. They also confirm that this revolutionary technology will stretch the active life of the 360 considerably, and is, for all intents and purposes, a next-gen accessory.
The accessory includes a depth sensor coupled with an RGB camera, which hands the Xbox 360 Project Natal a 360 degree arc of recognition. The recognition is so cutting edge that even tiny facial expressions can be interpreted and converted on-screen. The range of recognition can also be extended or shortened as the gamer wishes, with the possibility of including surrounding objects like tables or cabinets.
Along with movement, the Xbox 360 Project Natal also has the ability to interpret sound. The multi-array microphone within can be employed to recognise sound and relay vocal information on the television. These elements mix to offer total interactivity between gamer and videogame.
As the technology employed to create both Natal and the titles it will interact with is reasonably unique, Microsoft have said that current Xbox 360 titles probably will not support Natal, and that a brand new range of titles are in progress. Some technical demos shown at E3 saw Space Invaders Extreme and Paint Party, a game in which pots of paint are manipulated by the gamer to paint canvasses.
Time will tell as to whether the Xbox 360 Project Natal will instill the awe Microsoft are looking for. Whilst the specs are clearly revolutionary and due to trump even the Wii's signature card, Microsoft need to announce more engaging titles to gain increased customer interest. With the right titles coupled with it, the Xbox 360 Project Natal could actually be the future of videogaming!
Check Out The Latest Final Fantasy 13 Trailer Now!
January 14, 2010 by Gamestar · Leave a Comment
Recently the Internet saw the debut of the first fully English Final Fantasy 13 trailer. It was revealed as part of distributor Square Enix's 'lucky 13' project, in which they have vowed to reveal fresh data and promos on the 13th of every month leading up to release of the game.
As the title is due to hit western soil on March 9th 2010, this fresh Final Fantasy 13 trailer is to be the penultimate promo we receive, before February's final 'lucky 13' day. As already discussed, this comprises the first full trailer in which the cast are totally voiced by English speaking talent. We've been treated to leaked pieces of their voices here and there, but this Final Fantasy 13 trailer delivers the full show.
Motomu Toriyama, the director of Final Fantasy 13, has stated that the English copy of the title is now nearly complete, with just final mastering sessions to see to. As anticipation tops new heights, Square Enix are content to drip feed us info in their infamous style. This latest Final Fantasy 13 trailer also includes the English theme song, performed by Leona Lewis. The producers are clearly eager to make use of all of the big names when it comes to this project.
And so with a while yet before the title crashes into our lives, this latest Final Fantasy 13 trailer is ideal to keep you on the edge of your seat a while longer. Packed full of the gorgeous visuals we've come to expect from Square Enix, along with displays of amazing gameplay, it looks like the long, long wait is definitely worthwhile!
What To Expect from Nintendo DSi Features
December 19, 2009 by Gamestar · Leave a Comment
Nintendo DSi features are made up of fantastic multimedia capabilities, a clear improvement on previous incarnations. These features, for example the SD card, enables players to store pictures, downloads, and AAC music on the SD (as a removable storage). The wonderful Nintendo DSi Sound will definitely attract many fans to record your voice, play music (if it's mp4, 3GP or m4a), adjust pitch and playback, and control filters while you are listening to the music.
Another noteworthy improvement - you can listen to the audio output while your DSi is closed. You could even be an MC if you like, just use the built-in microphone to record audio or vocal messages ( limit is eighteen clips up to ten seconds in length ) and apply them to the audio files you have in your list.
| Nintendo DSi Matte - Blue |
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| Retail Price: $169.99 |
| Amazon Price: Too low to display |
More Nintendo DSi features are made up of a dual camera, with software that allows you to change and adjust your photos. You have 10 variant lenses at your disposal, so you are able to pursue your photo creativity. The Nintendo DSi features let you manipulate pictures captured by the camera, together with imported materials and real time feeds too. You can link the pictures you save with Wii, facebook and other social websites.
Internet connectivity is also a very important inclusion to the Nintendo DSi features. The console can easily be connected to the Internet, with a speedy connection through 802.11b/g Wi-Fi built in.
Lastly let's remember that WEP, WPA and WPA2 wireless encryption is employed by the Nintendo DSi features and that game-players around the world will surely be pleased to see it!
Looking Into The Xbox 360 Pro
December 15, 2009 by Gamestar · Leave a Comment
Xbox 360 Pro is one of the various versions of Xbox 360, produced by Microsoft. The strongest features this offers are Windows Media Center, the option of Hi-D ( whichever game you select ) and compatability with HD DVD movies ( if you include the add on drive ).
Following the presentation of Xbox 360, Microsoft have produced 2 new versions : Xbox 360 Elite and Xbox 360 Arcade. Furthermore, the Microsoft Xbox 360 Pro System was intended to be a limited edition, to be sold until stock was depleted. But as Microsoft later announced, Xbox 360 Pro should be available for consumers in the future indefinitely.
The Xbox 360 Pro is known under various titles, but the most typical ones are Xbox 360 premium and Xbox 360 Go Pro. It was actually an upgraded version of the then-current Xbox 360 Arcade. The Pro version includes a hybrid composite and component cable, the composite cable can be replaced with optical out features.
Xbox 360 pro will swiftly become a favourite device for those that have a lot of downloadable content to house. This model is enriched with a 60 GB hard drive ( removable ) which is added rather than the classic twenty GB disc drive. With Xbox 360 Pro gamers are guaranteed integration with original games for Xbox, and it can easily hold game data.
Starting Sep 2007, new editions were equipped with new motherboards, even more expansive than the Zephyr. this latest motherboard called Falcon houses sixty five - nm CPUs, which means that the full system stays cooler and less noisy.
Work Off That Dinner With The Wii Sports Resort Game For Xmas Season
December 8, 2009 by Gamestar · Leave a Comment
Wii Sports Resort is a game that is perfect for a Christmas present, in that as well as being heaps of fun to play, it can help you keep that gut down after all those puddings! It will also provide super physical fun throughout the year ahead, especially on wet days when you can't exercise outside.
How about using it at socials to get them started - it all goes with more of a swing once your visitors have got physical. Wii Sports Resort is able to engross you in the real-time activities that are shown on-screen.
By using the Wii MotionPlus attachment (included in the game pack), your Wii remote will have better accuracy and responses. For other players (up to four participants can join in at once) to connect in, you will have to acquire further accessories to make sure everybody can take part. That is probably the major weakness of the game, as it does necessitate a greater depth of movement and accuracy than a lot of other Wii games.
The game has a lot to offer participants, including amusing depictions of Wake Boarding, Basketball, Power Cruising, and Skydiving. In total there are 12 sports resort games to try your hand at. It's the follow on to the incredibly popular Wii Sports game, and has therefore been getting a great amount of notice with both gaming and fitness fans.
The Sports Resort game has been getting some fine reviews from many sources, and its graphics are believed to be higher than the norm for Wii games, which is great to hear. The Wii Sports Resort is a fine idea for a Christmas present for that eager gamer or fitness fanatic in your life!
Beatles Rock Band Limited Edition
December 5, 2009 by Gamestar · Leave a Comment
If you're a true follower of video games and devices, I am sure you've heard about The Beatles Rock Band Limited Edition. However, if you're still unsure what it is, keep on delving here and you will soon discover the details you want.
The Beatles Rock Band Limited Edition is where the most creative musical video game and greatest band of our time meet. It's the title for music fans, game players, children and veterans alike who gladly hold onto the golden era in music.
| Wii The Beatles: Rock Band - Software Only |
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| Retail Price: $39.99 |
| Amazon Price: $36.99 |
MTV games announced this title will be interesting for both youths and their mom and pop. Youngsters will love it - because they adore games, and folks will be thrilled to participate aswell, since they truly love and respect traditionally popular music as The Beatles delivered. Platforms that house this title are Nintendo Wii, Xbox 360 and Playstation 3.
The Beatles Rock Band Limited Edition will have the game, a Hofner Bass ( custom etched like Sir Paul McCartney formerly played ), a microphone with a stand, extra special content and a real special treat for any music affectionados - Ludwig Drums! The drum set is uniquely customised for this title, with pearl finish and vintage drum hide, similar to the model Ringo Starr employed.
So waste no more time and start rehearsing your well-loved Beatles titles and guitar solos. If you love the music these legendary Liverpool musicians produced, The Beatles Rock Band Limited Edition is sure to rock your soul!
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All About The PSP Memory Stick
November 27, 2009 by Gamestar · Leave a Comment
A PSP memory stick is a dynamic flash memory card feature for PSP. It has got various advantages as we shall soon discover.
When purchasing a new PSP system, you might find your complete family fighting over it. If you have kids in the place, then it becomes much even trickier as they are probably going to argue over who played with it last, why something was erased, and so on. The PSP memory stick comes to your rescue in such scenarios, like the PS2 memory card which you might have used in the past.
Once you have a PSP memory stick in place, it allows swapping and exchanging info across a vast variety of electronic gadgets. With aid from this you can also download content from the Internet directly onto your computer. This info can then be loaded to the PSP memory stick over a USB wire. Now you are all set to use the memory stick with your PSP. This tiny, simple to handle and trustworthy device can hold not just the data mentioned above but also a lot more. Finally all this is kept in a single drive.
In the past, buying a PSP memory stick was a very costly endeavor. However, because of a reduction in the price of manufacturing the PSP memory stick, and the intense competition that it endures in the market against the various retailers, the cost of the PSP memory stick has shrunk steadily. So buying more than one memory stick for the personal use of each member of the family isn't too hard to believe these days.
The PSP memory stick is compatible, user friendly and flexible. This means it's ideal for even the younger kids. This portable form of memory is amongst the most coveted objects with people who love to use and enjoy digital content of their choice.
These are just a few of the advantages offered by the PSP memory stick.
