This Week’s Videogame Releases

It’s another light week for solid game releases. Thankfully, meaty games like The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings for Xbox 360 should keep gamers occupied for weeks to come. I’m curious to hear what you guys and dolls think of this one. As many of you know, the PC version was one of RPadholic smartguy’s favorite games of 2011. While there will obviously be a hit in the graphics department, the other elements of this stellar game should remain intact. The PlayStation Vita gets a great tactical RPG in Disgaea 3: Absence of Detention. Like the other games in the series, it features ridiculous depth, addictive gameplay, and a unique sense of humor.

Any of you picking up new games this week?

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This Week’s Videogame Releases

I rarely include downloadable games in this recurring feature. I’m fairly certain that I’ve never featured one. All that’s out the window with Journey on PlayStation Network. I’m a total homer for ThatGameCompany and Flower. If Journey looks remotely interesting to you, then please buy it. I love when games like Journey do well and companies like TGC succeed. Show ’em some love, if you’re so inclined.

In other news, Silent Hill: Downpour blends precipitation and survival horror (rain is scary!). FIFA Street adds arcade-style gameplay to the most beloved sport in the world. Fans of Japanese RPGs will want to keep an eye on Tales of Graces F. Ridge Racer is now available for the Vita, which is fun because it allows you to think of Kaz Hirai saying, “Riiiiiiiidge Racer!” Since I missed out on this last week, I have to check if any of you picked up Mass Effect 3.

Any of you buying new games this week? Also, buy Journey (please)!!!

This Week’s Videogame Releases

Obviously the big deal this week is the full North American launch of the PlayStation Vita. Sony’s newest portable gaming system is supported by several excellent titles. My writer friends seem to be enjoying Uncharted: Golden Abyss the most. For home consoles, Asura’s Wrath is out this week. My industry friends mostly love this game, lauding it for being fun, creative, and different. A few of them have dinged it for offering only five hours of gameplay. Syndicate is also out this week and I know of at least one RPadholic (Hi Sandrock!) that’s excited for the return of this classic gaming franchise. Last, but not least, is Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater 3D. If you have a 3DS then I highly recommend picking this game up.

Any of you buying new games this week?

Coffee Talk #453: Are You Buying a PlayStation Vita?

The early reviews are in! The North American launch is nearly here! The question is, “Are you going to buy a PlayStation Vita?” The reviews are generally positive. A lot of people are impressed with the Vita hardware and its capabilities. Some are not so impressed with the Vita’s…

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The early reviews are in! The North American launch is nearly here! The question is, “Are you going to buy a PlayStation Vita?” The reviews are generally positive. A lot of people are impressed with the Vita hardware and its capabilities. Some are not-so-impressed with the Vita’s inconsistent interface. Others are waiting for more and better games to come out. What’s your take on the Vita? Kindly vote in today’s poll and share your Vita-tastic thoughts in the comments section (please)!

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As for me, I kind of have to buy one. A Vita will help me get some work and I need to keep current. That said, Sound Shapes is the only Vita game I’m truly jazzed about. I’m sure there will be plenty of Vita games that I’ll end up loving, but I’m not getting the “Must! Have! Now!” feeling I usually get when a new system launches. Part of it is that the portable landscape has changed dramatically thanks to iOS. Part of it is that I’m more excited for the iPad 3, which should be out in March.

Et vous? Share your feelings (like a Care Bear) on the PlayStation Vita.

Digital Vita Games Will Be Cheaper Than Physical Ones

Many of you were calling for digital PlayStation Vita games to be priced lower than their cartridge counterparts. Your calls have been answered! That’s how it works in Japan and that’s how it should work here, right? Although precise price differences weren’t announced, Sony has confirmed that digital buyers will save money by going digital. Here’s a quote from a “Sony representative” snagged by Shacknews:

I can confirm that there will be a discount on the downloadable PS Vita titles from PSN. Exact details have not yet been revealed, but be on the lookout for an announcement in the very near future.

Like many of you have said in the past, it makes sense for digital downloads to be cheaper than cartridges. The costs of physical media, shipping, retail space, etc. are eliminated by going digital and consumers should be able to enjoy the savings. That said, I wonder if Sony’s retail partners are pissed about this and if their pissed-off-edness will limit the digital discount.

Any guess as to how much cheaper digital Vita games will be?

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