As silently as agent 47 this one snuck up on me and if this IGN Trailer is to believed it also appears to have snuck up on the Square Enix'a Press squad as well.
Set for release on 29th January US and 1st February EU, for Ps3 and Xbox 360.
Featuring 40 missions across 3 classic Hitman games, High Definition Trilogy includes:
Remember Me is a cyber punk action themed release developed by Dontnod Entertainment, published by Capcom and due May 2013 for xbox 360, Ps3 and Windows.
You play Nilin, a Welsh Actress, with the..
Alf The Helper: ahhh boss you'ved skipped a line...
..yes yes.. sorry, you play as Nilin a memory hunter with the ability to tap into people's minds and steal or rearrange their memories. Nilin is voiced by Welsh Actress Kezia Burrows
Elderly: ..what? that's it! what else do we know about it? Alf The Helper: ah not much else, I'll check wikipedia...
Sorry bout this... erm....minor technical glitch....Nilin's former employer, Memoreyes, has erased her memories and you.. she.. must discover why and how to restore them....erm..features exploration, platforming, and melee combat...
erm....
So in the absense of any real info, we present the significant trailers...
Alf The Helper: Why has she got a fried egg on the back of her neck!? Elderly: ..dunno.. shssh this is the best bit... Alf The Helper: She dosen't sound Welsh.. Elderly: She trained at RADA Alf The Helper: ohh right....
Whilst salivating at the prospect of Santa's arrival, I decided to take a peak at some of the delights awaiting us for 2013 and came across this offering from Insomniac Games (creators of Ratchet & Clank and Resistance).
A reworking of the four-player co-op game once known as "Overstrike", published by Electronic Arts for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 and due March 2013.
What They say....
“a 4-person co-op action shooter that thrusts players into the roles of four elite, covert agents with their own unique skills and experimental weapons.”
“Fuse demonstrates what Insomniac does best: outlandish and gruesome weapons design, over-the-top action and a touch of humor."
"....story-driven, action game where even solo players can experience the unique attributes of each agent by using the game’s LEAP feature to switch between the four characters at will during combat."
Possessing as I do the online co-op prowess and team spirit of a slug, a 4 player co-op is enough to leave me cold, nay catatonic. But that "Leap" feature, which reportedly allows solo players to switch with any AI team character at will, a newly developed game engine and Insomniac's penchant for outlandish weaponry... well who knows, but this is defo going on my must investigate more list for 2013....
Hitman Absolution is an upcoming stealth game developed by IO Interactive, and if my count is right, the fifth outing for agent 47. Set for release for Xbox 360, Ps3 and Microsoft Windows on November 20th.
Hunted by the police Agent 47 finds himself the centre of a dark conspiracy and must
"embark on a personal journey through a corrupt and twisted world, in his search for the truth"
Apart from the deadly defrocking nuns and the chance to dress as a chipmunk, Hitman Absolution promises a "familiar and yet significantly different experience from other Hitman games."
Successor to the 1990 title, Tekken Tag Tournament 2 is the eight major release in the Tekken fighting game series. Set for a staggered release on Ps3 and Xbox 360 between the 10th and 14th of September with a promised Wii U version due in December 2012.
The game will feature the largest Tekken roster ever with over 50 characters from the Tekken stable (see list on wikipedia and visit the official website for the full character bios), an all new Practice Mode called "Fight Lab",3D support again a "first" for a fighting game, "Tekken Tunes" allowing for the selection of your own imported music tracks, "World Tekken Federation" an online stat board, and apparently the first stat tracking service created for a fighting game ever and then of course there's multiplayer for up to four players.
"Big Bikini Bundle" featuring over 150 swimsuits, will be available as a pre-order bonus in addition to the "Snoop Dogg Stage" a combat arena featuring Snoop Dogg on his throne "flanked by two fly honeys", and additional early access to DLC characters.
Alf The Helper: Bahh... gimmicks...fanservice..!!! Elderly: Alf!! wash your mouth out!!!
Off course ye old Tekken modes are still there including the two versus two tag rules seen in the original Tekken Tag Tournament along with Arcade, Time Attack, Ghost Battle and Survival modes. Like the DOA series the combat arenas are tiered with destructible elements.
But in once sense I must agree with Alf, it appears all the extras have unfortunately overshadowed any realistic preview of precisely how good the gameplay is at present. If your a Tekken fan you'll eat it up and have already most likely pre-ordered, for those new to the series wait for the strobe lights, crowd cheers and the standing ovations....if they ever come.
Alf The Helper: ahhh....no popcorn!!? Elderly: No popcorn this time, but in sparing the expence of sending you on a cookery course, I've good news! Alf The Helper: you have! good! and that is? :) Elderly: I'm waiting on the delivery of a popcorn augmentation device Alf The Helper: Oh goody! a popcorn augmentation device.... what's that exactly? Elderly: Wait and see little Alf, all will be revealed... Alf The Helper: I'm so excited... Elderly: You say that now.. I mean yes I know you are... Alf The Helper: :)
Released Dates: 14th August in US and the 21st in Eu.
for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Microsoft Windows and a launch tile late 2012 for Wii U.
Darksiders II is an action adventure game carrying on from it's extraordinarily well received predecessor (83% on Metacritic). Events are set in the same time period as before, a "parallel sequel" I'm told, but this time out you take control of the Horseman Death, instead of his brother War.
As Death you set out on a personal mission to find proof of your brother's innocence, enlisting the help of powerful beings from the Nether Realm as you saunter across city maps and dungeons that are collectively double the size of the original.
Finished the game, no problem! a new Arena Mode called the "Crucible" allows you to develop Death even further, with up to 100 levels of progressively more difficult enemies awaiting you with each wave. Not satisfied with that then a "New Game+" allows Death to retain all his items and skills and set about a replay with more difficult enemies and challenges.
Eldery: Okay Alf you can turn off the capital Letter thingy... Elderly: Alf!!!!! Alf The Helper: erm.. remember the last time I burnt the popcorn? Elderly: Yes Alf The Helper: gulp!... well.... we're experiencing a parallel sequel....
Deadlight is a sidescrolling, survival horror, cinematic platformer, due August 1st for Xbox Live Arcade developed by Tequila Works and published by Microsoft Studios.
Set in 80's America, you play as Randall Wayne, a common garden scientist, who happens to find himself in an apparent virus outbreak. Set against a post-apocalyptic backdrop the game begins 145 days after Patient Zero, and as you can see from the trailer owes a big nod, kiss, hug and wink to The Walking Dead, the Road and a drop of Epyx's Impossible mission for C64 and recent XBLA hit I Am Alive by Ubisoft.
Seriously prime ingredients and perhaps just enough to reawaken my interest in 2D scrollers.........
Tequila CEO and creative director Raul Rubio says "Deadlight is not an objective story. It is told through the eyes, thoughts and diary entries of Randall Wayne."
Max Payne 3, due 18th May For PC, Xbox 360 and Ps3
Ah yes my first ever game, post preview, preview, which gives me another opportunity to explore the hidden treasures on the Max Payne Site and watch some youtube eyecandy.
Alf the Helper: So what's new in the Post Preview, erm... Preview mr. Elderly Elderly: I'm glad you asked that Alf
Well apart from the detail in the last Max Payne 3 Game Preview, news that a three part Max Payne comic, will available for free "in the next few weeks" from the official Website. The comic provides an insight into how Max got to be Max 3.
The especially wide widescreen Wallpaper above and criminally missing in my last update, a quick overview of the much hyped multiplayer element.
Job done for another day on the Elderly Gamer.
Alf the Helper: Well how do you think it went? Elderly: Okay, but I don't remember an "erm" in the script I handed you!!! Alf the Helper: ... Well I had no idea what my motivation was so I decided an adlib would add much needed authenticity. Elderly: I dunno, in future stick to the script, Okay? Alf the Helper: Okay...
2003 was the last time Max was let out to play, a release scheduled for 2009 suffered the dreaded "Push Back" syndrome, one "benefit from having more development time" press release and in depth fact finding mission to Brazil later, now Rockstar games are ready to release Max Payne 3 on an unsuspecting public for xbox 360 and Ps3 on May 18th, May 15th if you live in the US.
Remedy Entertainment, developers for Max's previous outings have been replaced by Rockstar's own in house development teams. The series creator Sam Lake steps aside to allow Dan Houser take over the lead writing role.
Alf the Helper: That would be the Dan Houser of Grand Theft Auto and Red Dead Redemption fame, brother of Rockstar Games President Sam Houser. Elderly: Thanks Alf!
The game picks up eight years after the events of the last game, this time Max is providing private security for a wealthy family in Sau Paulo, Brazil.
"This is Max as we've never seen him before, a few years older, more world-weary and cynical than ever." Sam Houser President Rockstar Games
Euphoria, Bullet time and Painkillers
Bullet time and Painkillers are still there along with trademarked Shootdodge™ a new game mechanic giving you a brief window to shoot or dodge or... erm both. Most notably the game will utilize the Euphoria physics engine which uses your consoles CPU to generate motion on the fly, by simulating the character’s motor nervous system, body and muscles. Also new to the series are cinematic action movements, interactive cut-scenes which will transition seamlessly into continuing game-play, and then there's ...
Alf the Helper: You shouldn't use painkillers unless your in pain. Elderly: Thanks Alf!
Multiplayer....
"Max Payne 3 will also be the first entry in the series to introduce a thorough and engrossing multiplayer experience. In a unique twist, Max Payne 3 multiplayer delivers a compelling experience that dynamically alters maps and mode progression for all players in a match. Along with traditional multiplayer modes, Max Payne 3 will also include a deep reward and leveling system, persistent clans and multiple strategic load-out options."
Max the 10" Statue
Max Payne 3 Special Edition:
Apart from a myriad of pre-order bonuses which will be available through retail store chains throughout the world, the game is set for release in both Standard and Special Edition, it's not clear whether the Special Edition will be available after release.
Those brave enough to pre-order by April 12th will be given the option to purchase the "Special Edition" which includes:
A copy of Max Payne 3.
10" tall Collectible Max Payne Statue created in a collaboration between TriForce and Rockstar Games. See pic above.
Series of game-inspired Original Still Life Art Prints that depict some of Max Payne's inner demons and vices.
Copper and brass-plated iron, bullet-shaped Bullet Keychain featuring a screw-off back.
Classic Multiplayer Character Pack of eight playable multiplayer characters for Max Payne 3 Multiplayer, including fan favorites from the original Max Payne and Max Payne 2 like Max Payne from Max Payne 2, Mona Sax and Vladimir Lem.
Disorderly Conduct Multiplayer Weapons Pack for Max Payne 3 Multiplayer that includes the Hammerhead Auto Shotgun, G9 Grenade Launcher and Molotov cocktail.
Max Payne 3 Official Soundtrack featuring the game's instrumental score.
Alf the Helper: It's a good likeness.. Elderly: What is? the statue? Alf the Helper: Yeah ....it looks just like him.. Elderly: And you were doing so well Alf the Helper: :(
A time, when, long before the release of a console game, there would be a veritable gallery of screenshots to wade through, a plethora of trailers and gameplay videos to eat your popcorn to, a feast of Wallpapers to embelish our desktops, dogs barking on every street corner.... well okay maybe not every corner, but certainly a lot of dogs..... suffice it to say a console game drew major attention to iself, long, long before it's release date.
It should come as no surprise therefore that these two potential leviathans have snuck up on me, due for release, according to Eurogamer "April 2012"
Alf sound the fanfair!!!!!
The Walking Dead The Game
This one a download for Xbox Live, and Playstation Network, Telltale Games are planning to scare the living dandruff out of us this month, with the release of their episodic ( download additional episodes as they arrive) take on the Walking Dead franchise.
An action adventure, based on the best selling comic book, by Robert Kirkman, who has promised that, unlike typical zombie games such as Left 4 Dead, the game will focus more on characterization and emotion than action
We can but hope, neigh offer a sacrificial... erm! ..sacrifice, that the quality is maintained as the franchise crosses to a new medium.
Planned for release on PC, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, described as an RPG based on the series of novels, "A Song of Ice and Fire" by George R.R. Martin, with the games storyline under the supervision of R.R. Martin. Due, you guessed it April 2012.
Now all I've got to do is figure out why I've got this sinking feeling.
Alf the Helper: Can I sound the trumpet again mr.Elderly? please? huh!? can I? Elderly: No, not unless you fancy having it surgically implanted Alf the Helper: :(
Set for release May 17th 2012, Witcher 2 Assassins of Kings is an third person non-linear RPG based on a series of books by Polish fantasy writer Andrzej Sapkowski and one of those few 18 certified console games we can expect to be just that, mature content aimed towards and adult audience.
Developers CD Projekt are labeling the console release as an "adaptation" not a port, and along with distribution rights issues, one of the reasons why the game was pushed back from it's planned 2011 launch. The CGI intro above was created by Oscar nominee, animator Tomasz Baginski.
Comes in two shades, though check the contents before purchase.
Enhanced Edition
Witcher 2 Assassins of Kings Enhanced Edition is set to include, Game DVD: The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings Enhanced Edition game on 2 DVDs OST CD: Audio CD containing in-game music Quest handbook: The Witcher 2 quest handbook for both novice and experienced role-playing fans World Map: Map of the game world Game Manual: Rulebook and interface explanation to help players get started
Dark Edition
Witcher 2 Assassins of Kings Dark Edition is set to include, Game DVD: The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings Enhanced Edition game on 2 DVDs OST CD: Audio CD containing in-game music Making of DVD: All cinematic materials related to the game, including trailers, dev diaries, gameplay footage, interviews and an exclusive, making-of video Quest Handbook: The Witcher 2 quest handbook for both novice and experienced role-playing fans Game Manual: Rulebook and interface explanation to help players get started Stickers: Three Witcher 2-related decals World Map: Map of the game world Witcher Mediallion: A wolf’s head metal medallion on a chain Artbook: Extensive documentation of the game's visual assets, covering concept art, cover renders and all the stories behind the art of The Witcher 2. Approximately 200 pages. Dark Edition Box: Thick cardboard box with a wolf head to hold all Dark Edition contents
Elderly: Alf!!! do not even consider touching that popcorn Alf The Helper: I was just looking at it, case... well case it wasn't finished popping! :( Elderly: ........... Alf the Helper: ....I go now......
Developed by Ubisoft Shanghai and published by Ubisoft, Due for download on XBLA on March 7th 2012 and PSN Spring 2012
What it says on the tin
One year after a worldwide cataclysmic event that wiped out most of the human race, a man struggles for survival in a desolate city as he tries to reunite with his long lost wife and daughter. In this post-apocalyptical tale, there are no supernatural threats, just an everyman who faces a decaying and hazardous world and humanity’s darkest inclinations. Will you hang on to your humanity and help strangers or are you ready to sacrifice others in order to survive?
Gameplay
Third person view for navigation, and first-person when aiming and shooting,
Gameplay has you dealing with three key elements, stamina management, gathering resources and Combat.
"I am alive" places emphasis on climbing and exploration, managing your stamina will be critical for survival and you'll be rewarded by gaining access to hidden paths, resources and other survivors.
Along the way you'll collect hidden resources and supplies which are scattered throughout the city: water, food, gas, medicine, cigarettes, tools, climbing gear, weapons, and ammo.
Survivors will adopt different behaviors and adapt to your actions. Some are friendly and need assistance, some are scared and others are hostile and will use group tactics to take you down.
Okay you've got my attention.... but then so did the ill fated Amy and I can't help but ponder why a game that sounds this good didn't make it to disc. Call me skeptical.
Set for release on Xbox 360 and Ps3 on January 31st Us and Feb 3rd in EU.
Neverdead faces stiff opposition, sandwiched as it is alongside the release for Final Fantasy xiii-2 and the Metal Gear Solid HD collection. Even the game's Megadeth soundtrack may not be enough to boost initial sales.
You play a wise cracking demon hunter called Bryce Boltzmann, an immortal, able to survive severe injuries, even decapitation. Indeed it appears dismemberment is a crucial gameplay element, losing your gun arm for example will still not prevent you from pulling the trigger.
It seems poor old Bryce was cursed by Astaroth, a demon king, and 500 years of immortality has left him a disheveled, bitter alcoholic who hunts down demons for both money and revenge. A demonic invasion theatens the city and joined by a female private investigator called Arcadia, the duo set out to rid the infestation.
The game is directed by Shinta Nojiri former game design disciple of Hideo Kojima
I'd love to show the trailer but it's an 18 cert, however a quick search on youtube will reveal all.
Alf the Helper: I saw Jurassic Park! why can't.... Elderly: No Alf! You saw the poster for Jurassic Park, there's a difference Alf the Helper: But Ripper was dismembered by Gnome and I saw that! Elderly: Yes that was unfortunate, but my final answer is still NO! Alf the Helper: You know sometimes I wish I was never born :( Elderly: I know how you feel.....sometimes I wish you were never born too! Alf the Helper: :(
Release for Xbox 360, Ps3 on November 15th 2011
To ensure you walk out of the store with exactly wanted, I hope the following is of some use. Verifed at the time of posting, things change, so be sure to check content before you purchase.
As your aware there are several different limited editions of Assassin's Creed Revelations. The Animus, Collector's and Special editions are available on all platforms but only available in Europe, Australia and New Zealand, while the Signature Edition is only available in North America through GameStop for all platforms.
Retail: Standard edition (game and soundtrack only),
The Collector's Edition features Special Collector’s Edition packaging, a 50-page art book, an animated short film and the original game's soundtrack. In-game content included is an exclusive mission and two additional multiplayer characters (both in-game content are the same as featured in the Animus Edition).
The Special Edition consists of a standard box with exclusive artwork and the original game's soundtrack. In-game content included is a Turkish Assassin Armor in single-player and two additional multiplayer characters (The Crusader and Ottoman Doctor).
Pre order only: Signature Edition: Pre-orders with GameStop will automatically upgrade to the Signature Edition of the game at no extra cost. The Signature Edition features exclusive packaging, a bonus single-player mission (Vlad the Impaler Prison), an exclusive multiplayer character (Ottoman Jester), weapons capacity upgrades, an animated short film (Assassin's Creed Embers Movie) and the original game's soundtrack.
Ultimate Bundle: US only, the Ultimate Bundle features all content from the Signature Edition, but the Ultimate Bundle also comes with Leonardo da Vinci’s flying machine replica and an Ezio 7-inch action figure.
Okay first off an admission....I don't have Kinnect! and up until now the only thought I ever gave the peripheral was, where would I put one? Entrenched as I was with my less than passing regard for this piece of wizardry I was certain that unless ordered by my doctor to exercise more often, then Kinnect and it's family friendly titles would never grace the doors of my shack.
Until that is, I read the following......
"At one point I was bludgeoning some zombie or other with a scooped-out chest cavity and a Rod Stewart haircut." Christian Donlon Eurogamer
Rise of Nightmares is a survival horror fps developed and published by Sega.
pegged for release September 2011.
Kidnapped in Eastern Europe (saving you plently of rendition time) you must survive the night in a mad scientist's (Viktor) castle that unfortunately seems to hold a number of less than friendly undead inhabitants.
Sequel to the critically acclaimed debut title from Ukranian based 4A Games and author, Dmitry Glukhovsky, Metro 2033, due March 2012 for xbox 350, ps3 and PC. Metro last light picks up after the "bad" ending from Metro 2033, in which Artyom delivers a devastating attack on the mysterious supernatural race known as the Dark Ones.
Beneath the ruins of post-apocalyptic Moscow, mutants stalk the catacombs. The station-cities of the Metro are locked in a struggle for the ultimate power, and you hold the key to survival of the human race – "the last light in our darkest hour"
Alf the helper: Apparently mr.Elderly, Metro 2033 had many PC gamers updating their graphics card to cope with the full spec required, and Metro Last Light will be no different, though the 4a wizards are optimising code to run on lower spec machines.
Elderly: Really?, and I suppose you have a reference for that piece of information.
For Xbox 360 and Ps3
Japan release: Out since April 28th 2011
US: August 16th 2011
Europe: September 9th 2011
3 years in the careful hands of a development team headed by SawakiTakeyasu (Devil May Cry) and MasatoKimura (Okami) The game draws players into a storyline inspired by events in the Old Testament's 'Book of Enoch.'
Players take on the role of Enoch and must harness his natural combat skills to master a range of powerful and Heavenly weapons under the guidance of the watchful Archangels. Only then will you be able to deliver the souls of the Fallen Angels and spare the world from a great flood ordered by Heaven.
Using 3D cel-shading techniques, the game embraces Okami style water colour washes of scenery and animation, giving the game a unique and eerie style.
Already scoring a 34/40 (85%) in Japan's Famitsu magazine, user reviews have been less kind (78%).
Alf the helper: Okami achieved 39/40 97%
?! thanks Alf, but not on my shopping list just yet, what did I tell you about interrupting?
A nod to the tiny few of us (? well 18 percent) who dare play as female characters...erm... occasionally, but also it appears a small tribute to the growing number of female gamers.
Bioware, bless their little hearts are planning on placing a Female Shepard on the upcoming game's box art, and you can vote for your favourite character from a selection of 6 (no.4 above).
You must have a Facebook account, and you can check out the six options BioWare has created ........ over....Here
Winda Benedetti has the full details on precisely where Miss/Mrs Shepard will appear on the box art and her interview with Bioware's Director of marketing
Sequel to the game Area 51 and set for release on Ps3, PC, and Xbox 360 on November 5, 2007. Set in the present day, players take the role of a decorated military veteran charged by the government to lead a squadron of "secret soldiers," as they fight off the invasion of unidentified enemy races.
