Tag: Videogames

PS4 to Stream PS3 Games Through Gaikai?

The latest PlayStation 4 rumor is that Sony’s upcoming console will stream PlayStation 3 games using Gaikai technology. Some of you will recall that Sony Computer Entertainment purchased Gaikai in July 2012. The Wall Street Journal broke the story, noting that the streaming service will likely be used only for old games. That isn’t to say that new games won’t be available digitally; those will likely require a full download, rather than streaming.

For those of you with large PlayStation 3 videogame libraries, the news is probably disconcerting. The PlayStation 2 and PlayStation 3 offered backwards compatibility with games from the previous generation. Some pundits believe that the PlayStation 4 will not, since it uses a considerably different AMD architecture and many presume that it won’t include a second chipset to support old games (especially if that $400 price point rumor is on the mark).

The answers to numerous PlayStation 4 questions will (again, presumably) be answered on February 20, when Sony has its big press event. Until then, let’s have fun with the WSJ rumor. What do you think of streaming PS3 games on the new console? Is not having PS3 backwards compatibility a deal-breaker for any of you? Also, can you feel that? That’s the heat from the flames of a brewing console war. Fore!!!

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Wargaming Buys Gas Powered Games

Wargaming, the makers of the popular free-to-play World of Tanks and World of Warplanes, has announced an agreement to buy Gas Powered Games, the creators of Demigod, Dungeon Siege, and Supreme Commander. Gas Powered Games recently made some news with its Kickstarter pitch for Wildman. The beleaguered company was facing financial issues and had to let several employees go to stay afloat, while its fate was in the hands of Kickstarter. Gas Powered Games CEO and founder Chris Taylor posted a teary and heartfelt video explaining the situation. Thankfully, the company was able to find a financial backer in Wargaming.

Now here’s the part with all the quotes! Let’s start with with the excellent Chris Taylor:

Wargaming growth in recent years has been tremendous, and we’re looking forward to joining one of the fastest growing gaming companies in the world. I’m sure our experience and expertise will help us contribute even more to Wargaming’s global success.

And here’s one from Wargaming CEO Victor Kislyi:

Gas Powered Games’ heritage and development pedigree shows us just how valuable an addition Chris and his company will make to the Wargaming family. Gas Powered Games has a long track record of providing incredibly engaging AAA gaming experiences and we can’t wait to start working with them.

I’m thrilled that Gas Powered Games was able to find a solution. Hopefully, the developer will be able to rehire everyone that was released. And hopefully the partnership is everything the company needs and wants. I’m a huge fan of the Gas Powered Games and, especially, Chris Taylor.

On the other side of the deal, it’s interesting watching Wargaming move and shake. The company’s purchases include Day 1 Studios and BigWorld Technology. All signs point to bigger and better things from Wargaming, including a console invasion (presumably full of tanks and warplanes).

Now here’s the part where I’m supposed to make a joke about the Belarusian company’s acquisitions being backed by Russian mob money…but I’m much too afraid of the consequences.

Xbox Founder Nat Brown on Why Consoles Will Lose

Nat Brown, one of the founders of Microsoft’s Xbox project, posted a long and excellent rant on the Xbox’s shortcomings. He believes that there are major issues with the system’s user experience and the company’s relationship with independent developers. He believes that these issues are why the Xbox is, “going to lose on in the living room battle with Android & iOS.” I highly recommend giving it a read. Here’s an excerpt:

So, because these two critical issues — user expereince and indie content — are not nearly in order and I see big investments in future interactive content happening, as well as idiotic moves to limit used games or put harder content protection into place than exists in mobile or tablets — i predict massive failure and losses here. And it makes me sad. Because it just doesn’t have to fail, even though it has been punted around poorly for 5 years. xBox just needs somebody with a brain and focus to get the product in order tactically before romping forward to continue the long-term strategic promise of an xBox in every living room, connected to every screen.

I’d love to hear your take on Brown’s argument. While I agree that iOS offers a generally superior user experience than Xbox, I was surprised to see him stress the importance of indie content. While I love and appreciate indie games, so many people — both within the business and consumers in general — pay more attention to the Call of Duties, Maddens, etc. I’m thrilled when developers like Giant Sparrow (The Unfinished Swan) and thatgamecompany (Journey) succeed, but I’m also not sure how big a part companies like that play in determining the future of the industry. Sometimes I get the (sad) feeling that people that write about games care exponentially more about indie developers than Joe Gamer does.

Kindly share your thoughts on Nat Brown’s post when you have a chance.

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God of War: Ascensions Mo-Cap Feature

Sony Computer Entertainment American posted a sweet video on the motion-capture sessions for God of War: Ascension. The clip features developers, actors, directors, and writers from the game. It’s a great behind-the-scenes look at what goes into the cutscenes of a big-budget videogame. You’ll get to see the actors play out a scene and see how the game’s animators use the performance. The only puzzling thing about the video is that actress Jennifer Hale found the mo-cap suit — you know, the black jumpsuit with all those little balls — funny. Dang…that’s what I wear for sleeping.

Anyway, check out the vid and let me know what you think (please!).

Bungie Destiny Details Coming February 17

Bungie has announced that new details on its upcoming game, Destiny, will be unveiled on February 17, 2013. The game is a space shooter purported to have a deep and fleshed out universe (you know, for sequel purposes). The news was announced on Destiny’s social media pages. Here are the links to the game’s official pages so that you can follow it using the social media service that tickles your fancy:

As for the game itself, isn’t it crazy that Bungie is developing a space shooter?!? Just kidding…. Seriously though, are you amped for the company’s next action game? Do you think it can reach Halo-like heights? What do you expect and what do you want from Destiny? Kindly share your feelings (like a Care Bear) in the comments section!

(For the record, I think “Bootylicious” should be the game’s official song, because I don’t think you’re ready for this jelly.)

This Week’s Videogames Releases

Sega’s Aliens: Colonial Marines is this week’s big videogame release. People love space shooters. People love Aliens. Ergo, this game has a lot of people amped. In other Sega news, Sonic and pals drive through multiple console systems in Sonic and All-Stars Racing Transformed. The cover of the game has Sonic in a race car. I’m pretty sure he can run faster than a car, so I don’t know why he’s in it, but the kids seem to love it.

So, any of you picking up new games this week?

Coffee Talk #566: What Will Make You Go Digital?

While digital downloads are definitely the future for the majority of videogames, it looks like the upcoming generation will start off with physical media dominating while publishers try to push gamers towards downloads. I know that many of you still prefer physical discs for various reasons, but I wondering — specifically in the context of the upcoming consoles — what would get you to switch to digital…more

Welcome to Coffee Talk! Let’s start off the day by discussing whatever is on your (nerd chic) mind. Every morning I’ll kick off a discussion and I’m counting on you to participate in it. If you’re not feelin’ my topic, feel free to start a chat with your fellow readers and see where it takes you. Whether you’re talking about videogames, the possibility of LeBron James losing the NBA MVP to Kevin Durant due to voter fatigue, your favorite 2013 Grammy performance, or getting excited about a visit from your baby girl, Coffee Talk is the place to do it.

While digital downloads are definitely the future for the majority of videogames, it looks like the upcoming generation will start off with physical media dominating while publishers try to push gamers towards downloads. I know that many of you still prefer physical discs for various reasons, but I was wondering — specifically in the context of the upcoming consoles — what would get you to switch to digital? My friend Paul and I were chatting about this during our weekly high-fat lunch and thought of a few things, some less likely than others.

Cheaper Prices: This probably won’t happen for years (though probably should happen sooner), but what if new digital releases were $10 cheaper than discs? I don’t expect this to happen straight away, but perhaps at the midpoint or tail end of the next console generation. Retailer relationships are still too important.

Earlier Release Date: What if you could play a digital copy of a game a few days before its physical counterpart? Is that enough incentive? Again, I don’t think this is likely initially, but could happen later. Retailer power is still too strong, for now.

Bonus Content: Would extra costumes, exclusive weapons, or free map packs be enough? Even though I’ve made fun of costume downloads a bit, I totally admit to buying them. I consider my bonus Street Fighter costumes and bikini Serah to be among my finest digital purchases. Getting these things as a digital bonus would totally work for me.

Would any of the above get you to go digital? Perhaps a different kind of incentive? Or are you sticking with physical discs until publishers stop making them? Please share your thoughts on the matter in the comments section!

Journey Wins DICE 2013 Game of the Year

I’m mildly annoyed at The Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences, but that won’t stop me from writing about the 2013 DICE awards! The big winners this year were Journey and The Walking Dead. I was thrilled that both of those games did well, though it wasn’t surprising considering that these awards are peer based and both of these games are popular within the business. I was also happy to see XCOM: Enemy Unknown snag an award. Naturally, I’d love to hear your take on this year’s winners. Here’s the full list:

Action Game of the Year
Borderlands 2
Publisher: 2K Games
Developer: Gearbox Software

Mobile Game of the Year
Hero Academy
Publisher: Robot Entertainment
Developer: Robot Entertainment

Handheld Game of the Year
Paper Mario Sticker Star
Publisher: Nintendo of America, Inc.
Developer: Intelligent Systems

Outstanding Achievement in Original Music Composition
Journey
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment America
Developer: thatgamecompany

Outstanding Achievement in Sound Design
Journey
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment America
Developer: thatgamecompany

Outstanding Achievement in Story
The Walking Dead
Publisher: Telltale Games
Developer: Telltale Games

Outstanding Character Performance
The Walking Dead: Lee Everett
Publisher: Telltale Games
Developer: Telltale Games

Downloadable Game of the Year
The Walking Dead
Publisher: Telltale Games
Developer: Telltale Games

Casual Game of the Year
Journey
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment America
Developer: thatgamecompany

Web Based Game of the Year
SimCity Social
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Developer: Maxis, Playfish

Family Game of the Year
Skylanders Giants
Publisher: Activision
Developer: Toys for Bob

Role-Playing/Massively Multiplayer Game of the Year
Mass Effect 3
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Developer: Bioware

Strategy/Simulation Game of the Year
XCOM: Enemy Unknown
Publisher: 2K Games
Developer: Firaxis Games

Outstanding Innovation in Gaming
Journey
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment America
Developer: thatgamecompany

Sports Game of the Year
FIFA Soccer 13
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Developer: EA Canada

Racing Game of the Year
Need for Speed Most Wanted
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Developer: Criterion Games

Fighting Game of the Year
PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment America
Developer: SuperBot Entertainment, Inc.

Outstanding Achievement in Online Gameplay
Journey
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment America
Developer: thatgamecompany

Outstanding Achievement in Connectivity
Halo 4
Publisher: Microsoft Studios
Developer: 343 Industries

Outstanding Achievement in Animation
Assassin’s Creed III
Publisher: Ubisoft
Developer: Ubisoft

Outstanding Achievement in Art Direction
Journey
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment America
Developer: thatgamecompany

Outstanding Achievement in Visual Engineering
Halo 4
Publisher: Microsoft Studios
Developer: 343 Industries

Outstanding Achievement in Gameplay Engineering
XCOM: Enemy Unknown
Publisher: 2K Games
Developer: Firaxis Games

Adventure Game of the Year
The Walking Dead
Publisher: Telltale Games
Developer: Telltale Games

Outstanding Achievement in Game Direction
Journey
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment America
Developer: thatgamecompany

Game of the Year
Journey
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment America
Developer: thatgamecompany

North Korean Propaganda Video Features Call of Duty

This North Korean propaganda video is completely awesome. First off, it’s set to an instrumental version of “We Are the World.” Secondly, it uses imagery from Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3. It sends the lovely message of Korean reunification through the destruction of the United State by nuclear weapons. I’m not sure that’s what USA For Africa had in mind for “We Are the World,” but the song is open to interpretation…more

This North Korean propaganda video is completely awesome. First off, it’s set to an instrumental version of “We Are the World.” Secondly, it uses imagery from Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3. It sends the lovely message of Korean reunification through the destruction of the United State by nuclear weapons. I’m not sure that’s what USA For Africa had in mind for “We Are the World,” but the song is open to interpretation.

Here’s a translation of the video’s text from the YouTube description:

” Last night, I had such a wonderful dream. I found myself rising high into space riding the “Eunha 9” rocket. In happiness and excitement, the spaceship “Kwangmyungsong 21” separated, and was flying into the grand and endless space. From onboard, I could see beautiful colors and stark contrast [of the outside]. I was about to press the button to take a picture as I was heading toward our perfectly green earth, a shining star in the midst of the darkness. Suddenly, through the camera lens, the image of the unification flag blowing over our one unified country crops up. Even I weep as I hold tightly to that camera, concerns rushing over me. In America, I can see black smoke. It seems like the devil’s nest that habitually caused wars of invasion and persistence are finally burning under the fire that I have caused. The free and peaceful world and the magnificent and awe-striking space seem to be blessing our spaceship “Kwangmyungsong 21.” Dear viewers, think about this. Korea’s spaceship flying through space, to the backdrop of the brightly-lit sun and space. I am certain that my dream will come true. Even the complete ending of the imperialists schemes. Seeing our Bakedu Mountain country prospering strongly under reunification, they will not be able to prevent our people from going forward towards a final victory.” – translation by NKNews

Apparently Activision isn’t pleased about images from its game being used to promote the destruction of its home country. The company has been getting the video pulled from YouTube, so catch it while you can!

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Next Xbox Won’t Play Used Games?

Edge has a bunch of rumors on the next Microsoft Xbox. The juiciest of which is that it won’t play used games. Console manufacturers and videogame publishers have been happily working towards this, while retailers and consumers have been fearing and loathing these developments. Here’s a quote from the article:

Microsoft’s next console will require an Internet connection in order to function, ruling out a second-hand game market for the platform.

The article also covers the rumored innards of the next Xbox, which include, “an AMD eight-core x64 1.6GHz CPU, a D3D11.x 800MHz graphics solution and 8GB of DDR3 RAM.” To me, the blocking of used games is much more fascinating than the hardware specs, since it will have massive repercussions and result in record-breaking gamer rage. While I personally don’t care about the used-game issue, I’m totally ready to sit back, munch on some popcorn, and watch the mother of all flame wars ensue (should this come to pass).

How do you feel about the rumor of the next Xbox not playing used games? Do you think it’s bunk? Is it too soon for such a drastic measure? Or is this simple where the gaming business is going? Does a required Internet connection limit the console’s appeal? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments section!

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