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Absolute Chess- DSiWare Review

Dustin Spencer
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Absolute Chess- DSiWare Review

Game Name: Absolute Chess
Platforms: Nintendo DSiWare Download Service
Publisher(s): Nintendo
Developer(s): Tatsuke
Genre(s): Board Games, Strategy
Release Date: August 9th, 2010
Price: 200 Wii Points ($2.00 USD)

Absolute Chess is a easy to play game of chess with a DS Download multi-player as well as a Challenge Mode and Free Play.

Story
Absolute Chess doesn’t really have or need a story. It is simply chess with a few upgrades to it. One thing that does give the game a small bit of personality though is the 8 characters the player can select in Free Play or multi-player. Each character has a nice anime charm that I found welcome in my experience with the game, I would love to actually learn more about this small cast of characters but honestly there isn’t much need as the heart of the game lies on the chess board.

Gameplay
The title of the game is what you get all-around with this one. Absolute Chess is a standard chess game with a few tweaks to the experience that add a bit more challenge and replay with each game. The game moves smoothly and is controlled by the Nintendo DS touch screen or the D-Pad control layout. I found this to be a nice touch as I am constantly forgetting my stylus and having the option for standard control worked well for me on a couple occasions.

As far as the challenge mode goes, there is plenty of challenges to complete, 3 in each of the 5 tiers that the difficulty progresses on. The game will have you go up against a certain character at a certain level and play chess until a winner is decided. This is a very simple formula that works well. The AI is very smart most of the time although I did notice a trend on some games with some of the same moves being made many times. That being said, the AI did switch it up quite a bit and proved to bring worthy opponents in. One feature I also like was that as I was winning matches, a puzzle was being revealed up at the top of the screen. Seeing that puzzle made me want to keep going to unlock the full picture at the end.

There is also a Free-Play mode which is just for a quick, casual game of chess. The mode that stood out the most was the DS Download Play option, allowing players without the game (and yes, even without a DSi as this works on a DS Lite or DS Original unit) to join in and pick a character to battle in the classic board game. All of the same features were applied from the main game in this multi-player mode as well.

The game will keep track of all moves on the right side of the bottom screen throughout the game. There is also a wait function which pretty much is your undo button for a move you might have botched the first time around. Use this function wisely as you only get so many a round though. I think any chess fan will be happy with how well this game really performs compared to some of the lacking entries on handhelds in the past.

Graphics/Audio
The graphics in Absolute Chess are 2-D and pretty standard. The chess board looks as it should and the pieces are detailed well enough to tell one from another. The characters are more of an anime-style that looked great and truly gave a feeling that I was actually playing against someone new when I was doing each challenge. Characters also can have a change in their mood based on the status of the match which can change their main picture on the top screen to fit the situation.

The music was pleasant and simple. I did not find it too memorable, but chess is a thinking game and I wasn’t really concentrating on any tunes playing in the background so it is another add-on to the game that really isn’t much of a factor.

Overview
Absolute Chess is a simple, fun chess simulator that can keep you playing for hours if you let it. The controls worked great and the game had a bit of personality added to the classic favorite. There was a few extra features that were not really needed, yet gave the game a little bit of room to stand out among other chess games that have been releasing for the Nintendo DS. The multi-player was a brilliant addition that added even more value to the title in the longrun. Overall, I think at just 200 points, if you even just slightly enjoy the game of chess and want a new experience of the age old board game, Absolute Chess is the the choice for what is in my opinion the best chess experience in the DSiShop.

I Give Absolute Chess:
9-0-capsules-out-of-10

Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 2 Demo now available

Dylan Radcliffe
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Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 2 Demo now available

If you love naruto or are even remotely curious about the game, the Demo is now out for your playing pleasure. While the entire Demo is really only 1 battle (2 if you count both areas you fight in as different battles) and only lasts about 5-10 minutes, it succeeds in one major thing. The Demo shows the gameplay mechanics that the game will use.

I quite enjoyed the gameplay mechanics for the game. While the combat is primarily based in only pressing the B button to preform combos, you can combine Jutsu and ranged weapons during the combos in order to create some pretty impressive Faux combos.

Along with that, the Game seems to be hitting the show pretty closely. There are some alterations in the fight with Kakashi that you play in the demo, but it still brings back that nostalgic feeling.

Add the free demo to your Xbox 360 download queue

Portal 2 videos because you know you wanted more

Dylan Radcliffe
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Portal 2 videos because you know you wanted more

Portal 2 - logo

I’m serious, who doesn’t love these Portal 2 videos?! Below are 3 videos that show more gameplay from Portal 2.

First there is the wheatley update which shows a new voice actor as well as some new locations. A lot of people are in debate on which voice actor was better, but it doesn’t matter because this is the one you are stuck with. MUHAHAHA!

The next 2 videos after that show some in game puzzles. While the first one is pretty easy, the second one looks quite complicated and really shows the massive level design on these levels.

enjoy.

Metro 2033 Achievements problem still being worked on

Dylan Radcliffe
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Metro 2033 Achievements problem still being worked on

Those of you who enjoyed Metro 2033 and downloaded the Ranger Pack DLC have probably run into achievement bugs and glitches that create problems while trying to unlock achievements. Sadly a patch that was included in the Ranger Pack DLC has caused tons of problems to the original game and has hindered many achievement hunters in their quest for all the achievements in the game. THQ has known about the problem for over 3 weeks and are still working on a fix. Don’t worry guys, you just need to be patient.

THQ recently released this statement regarding the work on the problem.

“We understand some people are still experiencing issues with achievements unlocking in the Metro 2033 Ranger Pack DLC. We are currently working with Microsoft to ascertain whether this is due to a code related issue with the DLC itself, or an error in the Marketplace process whereby the DLC was added to Xbox LIVE Marketplace before the new achievement data was added – this exact issue has happened to other games in the past, but we need to be sure that this is what’s happening here. We realise this is frustrating for those of you who have been waiting to enjoy the Ranger Pack DLC, and we ask for your patience as we try to pinpoint the exact issue and solution.”

Remember, the game itself is still working perfectly fine; it is just that ranger pack that is causing all the problems. If you are thinking about buying the game, I would suggest to simply avoid buying that DLC until a later date when the problem is fixed.

Mad’O’Ball 3D – iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch Review

Yitz
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Mad’O’Ball 3D – iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch Review

Mad’O’Ball 3D

Company: Tommaso Lintrami

Updated: August 05, 2010

Price: $3.99

BUY NOW

Story:

Mad’O’Ball takes gyro-type games even further, creating an interactive adventurous twist to the game. The point is to get your ball to the end of the level without falling off the course. This, while battling the winding course and any obstacles you must land on without falling into oblivion. There are 2 things that set this game apart from other gyroscope games. This game has a 3D enviornment, which is pretty cool. The other factor is that it’s not just a flat board. You’re flying off the course onto the next object, always changing gameplay. This is the gyroscope game to buy.

Sound and Graphics:

The 3D environment might make this a great gane, but the visuals aren’t  anything special. It has sharp edges at points that should look more rounded. The constant sounds can get quite annoying. It looks like this game was rushed out and the graphics weren’t finished. It is a fun game, one of the best, but the graphics can really use some improvement. Playing the first level, I left the game just because the constant “boing” sound. This can be changed in the options. I’d rather normal background music then these annoying sounds. This is a great game, but fails terribly at the sound and graphics can be better. They’re not bad, but instead of noticing the great graphics, you’ll notice that they could’ve been much better. The graphics are similar to Crash Bandicoot. Not too great, pretty choppy, but fun like crazy. They do have a sound fx and music volume adjuster. If only they had this for the graphics.

Gameplay and Controls:

This is a great game and a lot of fun. The controls are easy. You just tilt your device in the direction you want, or don’t want, your ball to go. The titling is a little sensitive, but you can change the sensitivity in the game options. Gameplay is amazing, always changing and a lot of fun. You may start off just rolling the ball, but later on it gets to jumping from course to course with the 2 jump buttons on each side of the screen. Whether it’s getting around cars on a busy street or running away from a flying object, you’re always having fun. There’s always something else to roll around on, roll away from and enjoy the environment. Sometimes, you’re rolling your ball and it disappears under something for a few seconds and you have to be careful that you don’t fall off course. There are plenty of different environments, courses, objects and more to play with. If you like adventurous games with constant change and you enjoy tilt-based games, then this is definitely a great buy for you!

Summary:

If you can get past the Nintendo 64-like graphics and play your own music (then go into the game and shut off music and sound fx), then this is a great game! It’s a non-stop ever-changing adventure all controlled by the movement of your hands, or toes if you prefer. It’s the best gyroscope game in the App Store based on the 3D environment and all the objects and courses included, even with the not-so-great graphics. If you’re looking for a similar game without 3D tracks, but with amazing out-of-this-world graphics, check out the review of Dark Nebula – Episode Two. These are both great games! I happen to keep both on my iPhone and play them both equally. I would recommend this game to anyone that wants to hold the power of Mad’O’Ball in their hands! I happen to like the graphics because it reminds me of old times in the gaming world. Overall, I give this game a VERY GOOD rating of 8.5 capsules. It would have been more if the sound was better and the graphics were improved.

8-5-capsules-out-of-10

Pokémon Black & White – New Features Detailed

Jack Joly
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We all know that Pokémon Black and White are in the works, but to keep it fresh, the Pokémon company and Nintendo have to add in new features every year to expand on the series, and come on leaps and bounds from the last iteration. Here’s a look at some of the new features you can expect to see come release:

Seasons– One of the big new features is the integration of seasons. The seasonal variation will not only be reflected visually (above), but it will also affect the Pokémon that are available. You’ll find that some Pokémon will only appear in certain seasons.

New Battle Modes– There are a number of new battle types in Black and White. As well as Double Battles, which made their debut in Pokémon Ruby and Saphire, there is now Triple Battles. These will of course allow you to battle with 3 Pokémon at a time in heated 3v3 battle. This will whole new level of strategy battling, as will the other new Battle mode: Rotation Battles.

In Rotation Battles you will also send out three Pokémon, although you will only be fighting with one of them. This is where the rotation aspect comes in. When selecting your command, you can rotate between your Pokémon. However, your opponent can do the same, meaning you will have to keep your wits about you and try to read ahead, and counter accordingly.

 

Pokémon Musical–  Much like the other Pokémon games which had your Pokémon competing in Pokémon Contests, Black and White have Pokémon Musicals, which will have you dress up your Pokémon and pit them versus others in direct competition. Only this time, they are taking to the stage and are competing for the spotlight. If your Pokémon performs well, the Spotlight will be shone in it’s direction, and it could even be rewarded with presents from fans of the musical.

The game will also include a wireless competitive Pokémon Musical mode.

Pokémon Global Link website and Dream World– The Pokémon Global Link website will launch to coincide with the release of the games boasts a number of innovative due to it’s link with Nintendo Wi-fi on the DS. Players will be able to view nationwide rankings and play information, send emails to other players on their friend roster, and download music from musical mode and skins from the Pokédex and C Gear.

The other aspect of the website is Dream World. Once you have set your Pokémon to sleep and transferred them to Dream World, you can interact with them in a whole host of new ways, producing fruit and gathering items. These can then be traded with others or carried back to your game cart.

What new features are you most excited about?

Professor Layton & The Unwound Future Preview…

Dustin Spencer
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With September being a huge month for new releases, it can be easy to lose track of everything coming out. The biggest release for the Nintendo DS next month is without a doubt Nintendo & Level 5’s “Professor Layton & The Unwound Future”. This sequel keeps to the roots of the hugely popular Professor Layton series while opening up a whole new mystery with the famous puzzles and brainteasers that put the series on the map.

Professor Layton and the Unwound Future places the professor and his trusted apprentice Luke at the center of a spellbinding adventure after they receive a strange letter sent from Luke from 10 years in the future. Using a time machine, players will join Layton and his trusted apprentice as they gather clues to find future Luke and learn more about the duos past, present and future and save London from disarray.

Features Include:

  • More than 165 new puzzles weave seamlessly into the storyline. Players will be challenged with fun, brain-teasing logic puzzles and riddles, and even new types of puzzles.
  • Players who are still stumped with a puzzle after three subtle hints can select the new “superhint” option to point them toward a solution.
  • As with previous incarnations of the franchise, weekly downloadable puzzles will be available after launch for a limited time.

As a huge fan of the series, there is no doubt that this newest entry in the Professor Layton franchise will live up to it’s great predecessors. Professor Layton and the Unwound Future launches September 12th in the U.S. and October 22nd in the U.K. exclusively for the Nintendo DS. Check out the trailer below and we will bring you more updates as they come.

Midnight Mysteries: The Edgar Allan Poe Conspiracy Coming to the DS!

Dustin Spencer
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Developer Mumbo Jumbo are known for their huge line of soild casual games. Fans of their popular title for PC “Midnight Mysteries: The Edgar Allan Poe Conspiracy” can rejoice as it is now getting a full port to the Nintendo DS!

A 160-year-old mystery, 30 ghosts from the past, and only 24 hours to piece all of the clues together! In this chilling tale of the mysterious and untimely death of Edgar Allan Poe, you’ll take a shadowy journey to try to solve the mystery of his death. As a famed mystery writer, you’re looking for your next cold case to crack when an unexpected visitor hands you an invitation and the perfect case to get your career moving again.

In this seek and find adventure, you’ll travel through the tales of Edgar Allan Poe to collect clues, interview witnesses and piece together the conspiracy behind the death of one of America’s greatest writers.

Features Include:

  • Celebrate 200 years of Poe in this seek and find murder mystery
  • Hidden object adventure lets you crack a 160-year-old case
  • Guided by Poe himself, you’ll collect items and clues through his most famous works
  • Solve intriguing puzzles to figure out exactly whodunit!

The handheld market is perfect for mystery games and this title looks like a perfect fit for any fans of mystery or gamers who are just looking to get a new experience on their handheld. On September 7th, players everywhere can take this newly ported whodunit game anywhere with them on the Nintendo DS.

Crackdown 2 “Toy Box” DLC details

Dylan Radcliffe
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Crackdown 2 “Toy Box” DLC details

Are you one of the many people who simply can’t get enough of Crackdown 2? Then this post is for you! Whether you are poor or rich, there is something new waiting for you.

The “Toy Box” DLC comes in 2 different packages. First there is the free package which comes with a few neat additions and costs absolutely nothing. Next there is the Premium package which adds even more brand new fun stuff, and costs a mere 560MSP.

Check out the full details of what you can get by checking out the full details from a press release below. Looks pretty cool to me, and it is in my price range! YAY!

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“Toy Box” offers explosive free Game Add-on content to all “Crackdown 2” owning fans:

  • Keys to the City: Made notorious in the first “Crackdown” expansion as the ultimate cheat mode, Keys to the City returns to “Crackdown 2” and puts an even bigger set of tools at your disposal, including God Mode, Infinite Ammo, Fly Cam, spawning of weapons, gadgets and more, the ability to freeze the time of day, and pushing all skills to the maximum to become faster, stronger and more lethal.
  • Level 6 Reward: Fans who reach Level 6 on all Agent skills will be rewarded with the new Thruster Ability. Thruster Ability is like having jetpacks for your boots, giving Agents built-in vertical propulsion to activate flying with the Wingsuit no matter where you are in the game.
  • Vehicle Tag*: Once you’re done taking down the Freaks and the Cell, join your friends for a thrilling new multiplayer mode where up to eight Agents can compete in these six arenas: Speed is the Quay, Industrial Action, Maim Street, Skid Row, Beachhead and The Sum of Human Knowledge.

If that’s not enough to get your heart racing, fans can purchase additional in-game content to extend their gaming experience for 560 Microsoft Points on Xbox LIVE Marketplace:

  • Two New Vehicles*: Access two new vehicles: the wall climbing aquatic mini-tank called the Agency ATV and the Squad Chopper, which allows four players to jump in and man their own weapon, including the proximity mine launcher, precision rocket launcher, twin machine guns and nose machine gun.
  • Five New Toys*: Whether you’re soaring to greater heights or orchestrating a massive explosion, get creative with the following new toys: The Mass Driver (turreted gravity bending weapon), Portable Launch Pads (allows Agents to create their own launch pad jumps), Stickler Grenade (bouncing grenade that sets off smaller explosive charges as it bounces), Thrusters (allow vertical thrust), and Mags on Characters (allow Mag Grenades to be attached to characters).
  • Two Avatar Awards: Deck your Agent in the latest gear. “Toy Box” offers two Avatar Awards to customize your Xbox LIVE Avatar with the Xbox Green Suit (must complete the Rocketeer Achievement) and Green Helmet.
  • 10 New Achievements: Pacific City never sleeps and neither do the exploits. Industrious Agents will be rewarded with 10 new Achievements and 250 Gamerscore:

1)      Beyond the Infinite
2)      Run Get to the Chopper
3)      Rocketeer
4)      Tac Loc Takedown
5)      Burnt Offerings
6)      Mile High Club
7)      Never Give It Up
8)      One Careful Driver
9)      Wing a Ding Ding
10)   Hung Out To Dry

  • Eight Agent Suit Colors: Pick up eight new shades of in-game armor for your Agent:

1)      Peacekeeper
2)      Terror Firma
3)      Agent Orange
4)      May Contain Nuts
5)      Minti-Sting
6)      Mega Agent
7)      Haz Mat
8)      Dem Apples

Gun Loco Gunning for Xbox 360

Cameron Savage
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Gun Loco Gunning for Xbox 360



At the far edge of the solar system there is a prison planet where only the craziest criminals are sent.

No guards, no security… no rules. Survival and escape are the only things that matter… it’s enough to send you GUN LOCO!

Square Enix Ltd., the publisher of such phenomenal titles as Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest and Tomb Raider, announced today GUN LOCO, an exciting, all-new approach to the third-person shooter genre. Currently in development and set for release in 2011 exclusively for Microsoft’s Xbox 360, GUN LOCO offers single and multiplayer gameplay in a sprint-action shooter format.

Set on a remote prison planet at the farthest reaches of the solar system, a collection of the system’s craziest criminals are incarcerated in a prison with no walls and forgotten by society. In this long abandoned world, the only rule is anarchy as each faction fights in a bloodthirsty race for survival, power and ultimately escape. Through varied climate zones and numerous stylised maps, players must fight through the ruins of the world’s previous civilisations, taking on each region’s inmates in a frantic and frenetic struggle to survive.

Featuring unique third-person, sprint-action shooter gameplay, players can assume the roles of a variety of unique and memorable characters in a game that redefines the run-and-gun shooter. While pursuing and being pursued by their opponents, players must make use of the sprint-action play by running, jumping, ducking and vaulting, using the environments to their advantage. With a powerful arsenal of weapons at their disposal, each character comes complete with their own unique kill move, coupled with a mocking take-down taunt to ridicule their victims. The frenzied and furious comic style comes into its own with full 12-player online multiplayer matches across the planet, with a range of game modes and multiplayer arenas.

GUN LOCO’s characters feature a unique visual style with each created from original design concepts by the hands of respected designer toy maker Kenny Wong. Co-creator of the cult Brothersworker series of collectible action figures, Kenny’s incredible design style and unique characterisation are a perfect fit for the bizarre world of GUN LOCO. Painstakingly crafted by hand, each comic caricature has been designed from scratch as a real, posable action figure before being digitally scanned into the game. GUN LOCO brings these memorable misfits and surreal sociopaths to life through animation, audio and unforgettable action gameplay.

“GUN LOCO’s comic characterisation and furious gameplay is a fantastic take on the third-person shooter and offers the kind of unique twist that only Square Enix can provide,” said Sarah Hoeksma, VP Brand PAL region. “The action is relentless, the characters unforgettable and the black comedy a perfect fit.”

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