This Week’s Videogame Releases

The biggest release this week is, by far, 2K’s Mafia II for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. The buzz on the game is strong and I’m expecting some cool things from this one. Hopefully it lives up to the hype. Hockey fans can hit the virtual ice…on the Wii with NHL 2K11. Last, and definitely least, is Grease for Wii. Yes, it’s a game based on that crap musical. I’m hoping one of you plays it just so you can regale me with stories (that are much more entertaining than the actual game…in my head, anyway).

As always, let me know if you guys and dolls are picking up any new games this week.

Marvel vs. Capcom 3 Videos: Amatera, Viewtiful Joe, Dormammu

The latest batch of Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds videos feature Amatera (Okami), Viewtiful Joe, Dormammu, and more. It’s slick stuff. I love that an obscure Dr. Strange villain like Dormmamu is included in the mix, but using characters like that always makes me chuckle. Similar to Silver Surfer in Marvel Ultimate Alliance, it doesn’t make a whole lot of sense — these characters are way too powerful for the situations at hand. Silver Surfer could destroy any MUA level in seconds. Dormammu could obliterate almost every character in MVC3 in a snap.

Yeah…I’m probably being too much of a fanboy if I’m trying to bring comic-book logitc into the mix. Ha!

PlayStation 3 Jailbreak Available via USB?

As RPadholic smartguy pointed out, OzModChips is selling a product called PS3 Jailbreak that allegedly…wait for it…jailbreaks your PlayStation 3 console. In addition to playing copied games, an open PS3 would support custom firmware, homebrew gaming, and more. Sony can’t be thrilled with this development and I’m sure its lawyers will do everything in its power to shut it down, similar to how Nintendo is waging war against the R4 “backup” cartridge for Nintendo DS.

That said, there are several useful applications for PS3 Jailbreak (if it works as promised). Developers that can’t afford extra debug units to play early builds of games get a cheaper solution with this product. Journalists (and verbal entertainers) that can’t get debug kits from Sony have a way to play early builds and earn preview money. While I’m sure that this product will be demonized by console manufacturers and game publishers, it’s not inherently bad.

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Dead Space 2 Gamescom 2010 Screens

I was very impressed with Dead Space 2 when I saw it at E3 2010 for Shacknews. The game appears to retain the creepy atmosphere and sense of helplessness that made the original so cool while adding new features that round out the gameplay. Check out the latest screens and let me know if you’re interested in this thriller from Visceral.

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Mortal Kombat Gamescom 2010 Screens

Mortal Kombat was on my list of games I wish I played at E3 2010, but didn’t have time to check out. The latest screens have me wishing I was in Germany, hanging out with other game writers, drinking large steins of beer, and playing this game. It looks old-school cool! These latest screens feature Cyrax, Sektor, Reptile, Kung Lao, Kitana, and more. Check ’em out!

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Enslaved: Odyssey to the West Gamescom 2010 Screens

Back at E3 2010 I wrote the following about Namco Bandai’s Enslaved: Odyssey to the West:

Combining action, puzzle solving, and escort missions, Ninja Theory’s Enslaved: Odyssey to the West offers variety, a cool setting, and a dose of Gollum.

The game has a unique look and some fun “imitation cooperative” gameplay. While I’m not as high on this one as Majin and the Forsaken Kingdom, I’m keeping an eye on this title as well. Kindly check out these new screens and share your thoughts (like a Care Bear!).

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DC Universe Online “Savior or Destroyer?” Trailer

I’m really not an MMO guy anymore (went through a bad EverQuest phase and I’m scared to be that way again), but the more I see of DC Universe Online, the more excited I am for the game. I’m pretty sure this game will drag me back to the dark side. I’m a videogame nerd and a comic-book geek. I don’t think I can resist.

Check out the latest trailer when you get a chance and let me know if you’re interested in forming a superhero team with me. We can be The Super Buddies, Part Deux!

Majin and the Forsaken Kingdom Gamescom 2010 Screens

Remember my Shacknews preview of Majin and the Forsaken Kingdom from E3 2010? At the time I said:

Flying under the radar at E3 2010 was Game Republic’s upcoming title that combines Ico-like graphics, stealth, puzzles, and an adorably goofy creature that looks like a Studio Ghibli reject. The diverse gameplay on display was fun and the visuals were a joy. If it all comes together, this could be one of 2010’s sleeper hits.

I’m still looking forward to this game. I think it’s going to surprise a lot of people. For now, please check out these screens of Majin and the Forsaken Kingdom and let me know what you think (please)!

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