The new Dark Void DLC “Survivor Missions” give you a horde-esque experience as you try and stay alive against increasingly brutal waves of baddies, both on the ground and in the air. You can get it on X360 on February 10th, for only 400 points ($5.00) and on PS3 users starting February 11th for $4.99.
The Dark Void soundtrack features 80 minutes of hand-picked selections from everybody’s favorite sci-fi composer, Bear McCreary, as well as a special bonus 8-bit bonus track! If 8-bit is really your thing, there’s also a Dark Void Zero soundtrack available–both are from Sumthing Else Music Works (on CD and digitally), and hit on February 9th.
Next time you login into iTunes you will pick up and update for your iPhone. Here are is what the 3.1.3 software update fixes.
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This update for iPhone and iPod touch contains bug fixes and improvements, including the following:
• Improves accuracy of reported battery level on
iPhone 3GS
• Resolves issue where third-party apps would not
launch in some instances
• Fixes bug that may cause an app to crash when
using the Japanese Kana keyboard
Products compatible with this software update:
• iPhone (all models)
• iPod touch (all models)
Ladies and Gentlemen Capsule Computers Community Member bdavid81 is back with another fantastic review. This time for Bioware/Ea’s MASTERPIECE Mass Effect 2 for the Xbox 360.
Thank you once again to bdavid81 for this fantastic review. If you would like to write up a review feel free to post it in the relevant location in our FORUMS. Then send us an email. Once we’ve review it we’ll post it on the main page for everyone to see and read 🙂
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MASS EFFECT 2 REVIEW – XBOX 360
Overview:
Bioware has kept us waiting, but the wait is over and Mass Effect 2 has arrived – was it worth the wait? Two long years have passed since Saren’s defeat. Commander Shepard is back after being presumed dead, and once again another force is threatening peace in the galaxy. Human colonies are disappearing and it’s your job to find out what’s going on, and how to resolve the situation.
Story:
The original Mass Effect remains as one of the best stories of any game, having spawned two novels and most recently, a comic book known as Mass Effect Redemption. In Mass Effect 2, you once again take on the role of Commander Shepard – though for unforeseeable circumstances – you have to rebuild your team. In the beginning of Mass Effect 2, you will learn that human colonies are being abducted and you have to find out what’s behind it and stop it.
First you need to rebuild your team before you can take on the primary threat. Using the Normandy, you’ll travel across the galaxy to join up with some old friends, while making some new friends as well. The story is weaker than the first game for the fact that half of Mass Effect 2 will be spent recruiting the members to your team. While some may be disappointed in this, each character has a story of their own, and the game ramps up near the middle and remains focused on the primary threat.
Graphics:
Clearly, Bioware spent much time polishing this game as it looks stunning. The new design of the Normandy is stunning, as are the environments themselves. While you are limited to the number of planets you can visit, they all strongly vary from one another and offer some impressive environments to explore. You’ll spend time in warehouses, cliff-sides overlooking the ocean, an abandoned laboratory, and more.
The lighting techniques have been immensely improved for this game, and you’ll be sure to notice this in the game’s introduction. With the in-game armors, as well as the download content ones available – you will appreciate the reflections and natural shine that it carries with it. One particular planet will require you to avoid direct sunlight – in turn, proper use of light & shadows was a necessity and was executed perfectly. Most textures are impressive at relative distance, from rocks to buildings.
Character models for every character are extremely well designed, including but not limited to facial hair and scarring. While the game looks beautiful in majority of its key areas, there are of course some weak textures scattered throughout the game – though it doesn’t affect any major components of the game and can easily be overlooked.
Gameplay:
Mass Effect was originally released as a RPG-Shooter, and while its regarded as a top quality title, it was also plagued by badly managed menus, clunky frame rates, and a variety of other issues. Bioware listened to their fans and they made some great changes. First off, the RPG mechanics were completely re-worked, much of it actually removed. Each character starts with a few basic stat categories, upgraded with an experience system. It takes 10 points to max out a particular skill which then allows you to choose one of two upgrades for that category, such as more health, and a much slower power recharge time. On top of that, each character has an optional (yet highly suggested!) loyalty quest. After you complete that quest for each character, a new stat unlocks for you to upgrade. Overall management is much easier this time around.
The next big upgrade is definitely the frame rate. Mass Effect 2 runs at a steady 60 frames per second and only had a few isolated incidents where slowdown and choppiness was experienced. Whether you’re running through a populated civilian area, or in a battle with 6+ enemies, you won’t notice any drop on the technical side of things.
In the original Mass Effect, gunplay took second place to the RPG aspects, but the tables have turned yet again. While the RPG mechanics have taken a back seat, the gunplay has been strongly improved. Overheating guns are a thing of the past, and Mass Effect 2 has adopted the classic ammo system. The game is user-friendly in the sense that enemies will drop ammo for standard weapons when your personal stock is low. Also, instead of having 10+ different guns in each category, the game has turned to offering 1-3 of each type, but offering an upgrade system to upgrade the power and other stats regarding the weapons.
Finally, the next major change is related to planet exploration. In the original, you had to maneuver the Mako vehicle around planets to find resources. In the Mass Effect 2, you visit planets on the new galaxy map and scan them using the left trigger and an aiming reticule. A bar graph combined with controller rumble feedback will let you know when you’ve found something and roughly the size of the deposit. Once you find a mineral, you fire a probe using the right trigger and its automatically extracted. A mid-game upgrade will allow for faster scanning, allowing to save some time and earn those upgrades quicker.
Overall:
After many changes, Mass Effect 2 comes into the running strong, and it passes with flying colors. While the overall plot is weak compared to the first one, every other aspect of the game is wonderful, you’ll surely find yourself wanting to play this one multiple times. Since every choice you make can alter the game – the possibilities are virtually endless.
Rating:9 Capsules Out Of 10
Let us know what you thought of Mass Effect 2 and also of the review. Leave a comment below
Finally, MS has responded to the cheaters in MW2. The Prestige boosters out there, watch out, you will get caught and you will be banned, then you can go cry to mummy.
“People who have obtained prestige illegitimately, will be given suspensions. People soliciting other people to gain prestige (whether for free, or for points) will be permanently suspended.”
To all those users who are attempting to play MW2 without cheating, please have faith. Hang in there, because the cheaters are being caught and the game will be patched.
p.s., it doesn’t matter if you gained 10th prestige, 2nd, or 1st: illegitimate game play = suspension”
Now I hope they extend this to the Care Package cheaters, as Prestige rank does not affect gameplay. I seriously don’t know why anyone would want to pay to get to 10th Prestige. It’s only a title, and I actually think the symbol for 10th Prestige is a little dull.
Looking further on in the article “The Pro” actually bans someone who stupidly posted on the forums – http://forums.xbox.com/31084648/ShowPost.aspx – I laughed for a very long time over this one.
That’s it from me now, glad MS are actually doing something about it.. but.. IW/MS please patch this stuff as soon as you can.
GAMELOFT’s FIRST 3D COOKING GAME on the App Store.
Only $5.99 AUD in the APP STORE :
Follow up to 25 yummy recipes step by step and put your precision & speed to the test in 19 fun mini-games! Bake, boil and blend your way to become a Culinary Master!
Put on your chef’s hat and prepare for gourmet fun!
The need for precision makes Pocket Chef loads of fun! Thanks to the Accelerometer, you’ll play by making the same movements as if you were really cooking. Soon you will become obsessed with flipping steaks before they burn, or breaking an egg without smashing it!
Plus, the game doubles as a recipe book available to you 24/7! You’ll find great recipes for gazpacho, tropical cocktail, delicious brownies and much more.
Bon Appétit!
Ingredients for Pocket Chef:
• 19 MINI-GAMES composing real recipes, from the preparation of ingredients to the baking & presentation.
• 25 RECIPES from all over the world, including different courses and cuisine.
• 5 KITCHENS beautifully designed in 3D: Bake your way from veggie delights to American classics!
• A RECIPE BOOK: Unlocked recipes are available whenever you want to try them in real life.
• REALISTIC 3D GRAPHICS make your dishes look mouth-watering!
• To spice up the game, your culinary achievements appear on Gameloft Live!
• iPod Library Access: Listen to your favorite music while cooking.
For a limited time, Atari is releasing Flashback 2+ through a handful of retailers in small quantities. But you can guarantee yours on Atari.com while stocks last. Preorder now and get an exclusive classic Atari T-shirt! Click on the image below to make your pre-order, get more information and most of all relive the good ole times once again. Thanks Atari we hearts you 😉
Let us know what you think of this little deal ? Good, Bad, Or UGLY !!
Fighting for a better video game classification system in Australia
EB Games in Australia are heading a petition to make 18+ rated games LEGAL in Australia. I think its time as the slogan goes to GROW UP !! Help our cause smackdown your vote today. Read the article below and then click on it to vote.
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Your thoughts .. should we grow up or should we stay small for the rest of our lives 😉
As we just shared with you Left 4 Dead 8-Bit de-make. Why not go all the way and share out some other amazing old school style de-make games. Here they all are : Description and download links. Remember all these games are playable on PC only and are FREE. So help yourselves.
MEGA MAN ROCKS
Another title de-make by Eric Ruth. Details, screenshots, video and Download link below
Mega Man Rocks! is a project dedicated to the hard working people at Capcom of Japan who have brought us one of the most memorable game characters of all time. From beginning to end, this project was made in a style that reflects and respects the designs of the original 8-bit Mega Man series while still bringing a few new features to the table. Programmed in the span of 3 months, Mega Man Rocks! is a title that retro game enthusiasts will be able to understand and enjoy in a “true gamer” kind of way.
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HALO ZERO
The epic battle between Master Chief with the Covenant has expanded to the 2D universe with Halo Zero. All you hardcore Halo fans finished with all the ODST achievements can scroll across the screen in a Warthog
This is a freeware 2D game based on the beloved Halo series. Created by Dobermann, this game gives plenty of old-fashioned fun with your favorite character, Master Chief.
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METROID PRIME 2D
Metroid Prime was one of the best games on the GameCube and the first time Samus was in 3D. This demake has the bounty hunter returning to a 2D version of Planet Tallon IV to fight the Space Pirates again
Metroid Prime 2D is an unofficial Metroid fan game developed by a group of enthusiasts, originally led by Kellan “MetroidHandler” Stover. The concept of the game is to take all elements of Metroid Prime and do them in the traditional 2D way.
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Let us know what you think of these fantastic 2D FREEware titles 🙂
Last year we quickly touched on the Eric Ruth’s retro de-make of Valve’s hit zombie killing masterpiece Left 4 Dead. Well we have some good news. It’s now available for download and best of all IT’S FREE !! *NOTE the game is for PC *
Check out the details below, screenshots and video trailer then click on the download button below to download it. Left 4 Dead 2D is a top down shooter with a Nintendo NES old school feel. Check out the details below.
Details :
Pixel Force – Left 4 Dead is a retro de-make of Valve’s hit zombie killing masterpiece. Lovingly recreated in a fashion that would have been acceptable in 1986 for the Nintendo Entertainment System, this de-make stands as the flagship title of the upcoming Pixel Force series from Eric Ruth Games. Go alone, or invite a friend for 2 player co-op against the zombie apocalypse in all 4 of the original game campaigns. 2 difficulties and all 4 of the survivors make a glorious 8-bit appearence, complete with first and second tier weapons scattered along your path to escape. So, grab your controller of choice and kick back with an award-winning retro take on the end of the world with Pixel Force: Left 4 Dead.
Gameplay Trailer :
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Let us know what you think of Left 4 Dead. Leave a comment below
The Capsule Computers community is growing each and everyday. More and more members are starting to become more active and contributing to the site in many ways. To show our appreciation Capsule Computers will start posting reviews that are written by our members in our Forum here on the main page for everyone to see & read.
To kick off our first Community review we have bdavid81 who has reviewed EA/Visceral Games newest action title : Dante’s Inferno. Check it out and leave a comment below. Big thanks once again to bdavid81 his efforts have been rewarded 😉
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DANTE’S INFERNO REVIEW – XBOX 360
Overview:
Developed by Visceral Games and published by Electronic Arts, Dante’s Inferno is bringing the action to Xbox 360. As gamers, we’ve already come to refer to Dante’s Inferno as a blatant God of War clone. Frankly, it’s true – but is that really such a bad thing?
Story:
Forgive the comparison yet again, but unlike God of War, you’ll find the story in Dante’s Inferno to be the weaker portion of the game. The game differs from the epic poem, The Divine Comedy, and you play as Dante, Knight of the Crusades. You return home to find Beatrice’ soul being taken by Lucifer, and you’re willing to fight through hell to save her.
Dante will have to fight through the Gates of Hell, then proceed through the Nine Circles of Hell. As Dante, you must stop Lucifer from his attempt to break free of hell, by redeeming the soul of your lovely Beatrice.
Graphics:
Environments are often very impressive in the game, yet very similar. Walls and ladders are constructed of bodies, tortured souls, and bones. Detailed surroundings are stunning to take in, with lava pits, fiery waterfalls, and much more. Closer inspection does however reveal from very weak texture work in some portions of the game. You won’t find yourself wanting to stare up close as the walls and floors though, as you’ll be much too busy punishing and absolving the many minions of hell.
The camera is pretty standard and follows Dante’s to give you a somewhat unobstructed view of your objective. At times, you’ll need to keep an eye out for a well hidden ledge or fountain to destroy. At times, you may curse the camera as it could clearly be more player-friendly, but it would rather make things more difficult for you. Consider this a developers guideline flaw, rather than a flaw of the game itself.
Gameplay:
The most important part of a game is obviously how well the game plays out. From the beginning, you’ve got your basic attacks, quick/light attacks, heavy attacks, and the Holy Cross that I adore so much. Just like God of War (Sorry, I just can’t help it!), the game is very linear, and it pushes you to defeat enemies in a specific area, progress further, and repeat the process. You will encounter some basic puzzles that are required to move ahead, but nothing that should take you more 3-5 minutes to solve.
Upgrades to Dante’s’ move-set are purchased using the souls of your slayed enemies. The player chooses which powers to unlock on either the Holy Grid or Unholy Grid. You can either balance between both evenly, or focus on completing one grid first. As you progress up the grid, powers become much more expensive, for example requiring 6500 souls for a single upgrade as opposed to 1000 near the bottom of the grid. There are a few areas that appear to be unlimited re-spawning enemies where, if you’re good enough (and patient!) you could easily farm souls to upgrade Dante early in the game. However, it’s not required.
Boss fights are quite challenging, and all require a specific pattern to be defeated. Often, you’ll be limited to a relatively small battleground, yet the boss is rather massive, therefore you’ll be using your blocking and rolling techniques quite a bit. With larger enemies, and during general movement, you’ll encounter a ton of quick-time events (QTE’s), most of which offer more than a gratuitous time-frame for the player to complete it successfully. The most common QTE will be found on large enemies on which you must choose to punish or absolve – which allows you to gain an extra boost of souls towards holy or unholy power.
Nearing the end of the game, you’ll be required to undergo a specific number of challenges, similar to those non-essential challenges in Bayonetta. Optional challenges are great, but these are required to progress to the overall goal. For lesser skilled players, this is a genuine product of poor game design.
Overall:
Impressive environments however there isn’t enough variation in the design. The ambient sound effects of screaming people become annoying rather quickly, though some pieces of the music itself are quite good. The difficulty curve is all over the place from being too easy, straight over to being entirely too frustrating. While the true hardcore fans may overlook its flaws, this one comes into the game as a rental recommendation, rather than a purchase.
