Kid Icarus: Uprising (3DS)
As the premiere title for the 3DS in 2012, Kid Icarus: Uprising has some big shoes to fill. Coming off of the release of two astonishing Mario titles, Kid Icarus is a fantastic return to the franchise, taking a whole new direction that pays off in the end.
Kid Icarus: Uprising is the brainchild of mastermind Masahiro Sakurai, head of Project Sora, who created Super Smash Bros. Brawl. Instead of returning to Pit's platforming roots back in his NES days, Sakurai takes the franchise in a new way. The game is split into two formats, so you're basically doing two different sections in each level: a flying portion and a ground portion. Each chapter starts with a brief flying section, and these play out like Sin and Punishment. You can't control Pit directly, but you can control where he aims and his shooting. These are the more superior sections; albeit short, they're full of fast-paced shooting and fun dialogue. When Pit's power of flight runs out, however, Palutena drops him to the ground to embark on a land mission. These play out like a third-person action game. Pit is able to run anywhere and fire at will as he makes his way towards the boss of the chapter. These sections are much longer than the flying ones, and they aren't as fun thanks to some clunky controls. Before each level you have the option to select your difficult, betting hearts (the game's currency), for higher difficulties. Subsequent difficulties unlock hidden areas in each level, allowing you to get better weapons but at the cost of tougher enemies.
The controls in Kid Icarus: Uprising are an odd choice. You hold the 3DS in one hand, use the L-button to shoot, move Pit with the Circle Pad, and aim using your stylus on the touch screen. Obviously, you're doing too much at once, and it can become overwhelming. The real problem is the camera in the ground portions. A flick of the stylus rotates the camera around Pit, and flick it too hard and it'll freak out. The camera's not awful if you strafe the whole time, but if an enemy's behind you, you'll get hit a number of times before you're able to orient yourself properly. For lefties, the Circle Pad Pro is an option, and the additional Circle Pad allows you to hold your 3DS and control Pit with ease. The game comes with a stand, which looks as equally as awkward as it sounds. You place the 3DS on the stand, and it eases the burden on your hand. It's weird, and obviously not optimized for mobile gamers, but it's not a big deal.
In addition to playing the fun chapters in Solo Mode, you've got a bunch of collectibles to collect. The gear in Kid Icarus: Uprising is handled phenomenally. You acquire items throughout Solo Mode and can use them in Solo or Together Mode (more on that in a moment). Each weapon is different, so you've got your bows, your clubs, everything's here. What's cool is that every weapon has different stats than the last one, so maybe one weapon petrifies an opponent, while an other gives Pit a speed boost. This adds a layer of replay value as you try to scout out the best weapon combination, and it's a lot of fun. Also, you can fuse two weapons together to make even stronger ones, so making choices in what weapons to keep is all on you. Pit's powers are handled in a Tetris-like array, and you can place as many powers in your arsenal as you can fit. Menus even look like those found in the Smash Bros. series, so it's easy to see the similarities.
I've mentioned all this without even talking about how stunning the game looks in motion. While flying, the 3D effect is put to full use here, and enemies and lasers are almost too good to be true. The ground segments aren't as visibly striking, but they're still better than the majority of third-party efforts on 3DS. The soundtrack is brilliant, as well, and the Menu tune will be stuck in your heads I guarantee it. The voice acting is purposefully cheesy, with Pit and Palutena delivering banter like a comedy duo in the sky. Their talk is hilarious, and sometimes it even breaks the 4th wall.
After you've finished the Solo Campaign, you can head on over to Together Mode, using the newly named Nintendo Network. You and friends can battle it out together or using download play if they don't have the game. Or you can go online and put your skills to the test here. There are two modes available online: Free for All and Light vs. Dark. Free for All is exactly like it sounds, it's you against five other angels. The more interesting is Light vs. Dark where you are split into two teams and you battle it out, depleting the other team's overall life bar. Once the bar is empty, the last person to die is resurrected as Light or Dark Pit, and it turns into a game of protecting your team's angel while trying to defeat the other team's. It's a lot of fun, and I don't think I've ever seen a multiplayer mode like this ever before. What's cool about online mode is that all the weapons you get in Solo Mode are usable, and vice-versa. StreetPass is also utilized in the form of gems. You can make a weapon set into a gem, and when you pass another player with the game, your weapon goes to their game, adding a collectible aspect.
Kid Icarus: Uprising is another fantastic entry in the 3DS's library. A fantastic solo mode and multiplayer mode make up for the sometimes shoddy controls. The system's got steam now, and it'd be stupid to wait any longer to purchase it.
Pros:
Excellent Mix of Flying and Ground Action
Weapons and Collectibles
Excellent Graphics and Music
Fun Online Mode
Cons:
Weak Controls
Overall: 9.0/10.0
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Joey's Top 5 of 2011: Games
Well, 2011 is three weeks old, and I thought I'd look back on what a great year it was, not only for games, but movies and entertainment as well. Today I'm kicking it off with the Top 5 Video Games of 2011. These can be from any console, and it doesn't have to be a game that I have reviewed. Let's start with # 5:
Number 5: Super Mario 3D Land
Nintendo had some slim pickings this year, and after the somewhat failure of a launch for the Nintendo 3DS, many wondered if we would ever receive good games for the system. Thankfully, our prayers were heard, and, in addition to Mario Kart 7 and Ocarina of Time, we were blessed with Super Mario 3D Land, a clever mix of 2D and 3D platforming. The 3D effect is brilliant, and it actually matters in this game. I complained about the simplicity of the game in my review last November, but it remains as my favorite 3DS game to date.
Number 4: Portal 2
The original Portal was a work of art. A first-person puzzler where you control Chell as she escapes from Aperture Laboratories. You're armed with your Portal gun, and you make your way through various test chambers to escape. The sequel improves on the foundation set by the original, adding new mechanics like light bridges and goo, and including a story that will make you scratch your head. The graphics aren't top- notch, but who cares? The writing is rock solid, and I found myself laughing out loud at Wheatley's witty remarks and Glados's insults.
Number 3: Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception
When I bought my PS3 last year on Black Friday, I made sure to pick up Uncharted 3 as the first game I would play on my new system. Two months later, and I'm still playing it on a regular basis. Nathan Drake and company are back, and they've got another globe trotting adventure to embark on, involving Nate and Sully's past. The story matches that of Uncharted 2, and the graphics and gameplay heavily outdo the original. The game is short, but you've got 100 treasures to find among the levels, and the multiplayer will keep you around long after the campaign is finished. A true treasure.
Number 2: The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword
Like I said, it was a rough year for Nintendo, especially on the Wii. Thankfully, the one big title for the Wii delivered, and Skyward Sword takes it place at the top of my list of best Zelda games. The Wii Motion Plus adds an all new dimension to the game, and motion control is, I believe, the future of the franchise. The storytelling is brilliant, and Skyloft and the flying mechanics work like a charm. The host of new characters and beautiful graphics and music only add to the fact that this is the greatest Wii game of all time.
Number 1: Batman: Arkham City
I don't exactly know what I expected diving into Arkham City. Having not played Asylum, I was a bit confused at why I would want to play this game anyways. Tons of hours in, however, and I've found out why. You are Batman. That's the game. The plot of Arkham City is great and well fleshed out by a number of characters, and comic book fans will get a kick out of seeing all their villains in one game. As you glide around Arkham City as the famed Caped Crusader, you solve the mystery and get to the bottom of what the heck is going on. The combat succeeds in being simple enough for new players to get, and being complicated enough for vets to have fun. Challenge maps and side-quests extend the replay value greatly, and new playable characters like Catwoman help too. Arkham City is the Batman experience, and the reason to own a PS3 or 360 this winter.
Number 5: Super Mario 3D Land
Nintendo had some slim pickings this year, and after the somewhat failure of a launch for the Nintendo 3DS, many wondered if we would ever receive good games for the system. Thankfully, our prayers were heard, and, in addition to Mario Kart 7 and Ocarina of Time, we were blessed with Super Mario 3D Land, a clever mix of 2D and 3D platforming. The 3D effect is brilliant, and it actually matters in this game. I complained about the simplicity of the game in my review last November, but it remains as my favorite 3DS game to date.
Number 4: Portal 2
The original Portal was a work of art. A first-person puzzler where you control Chell as she escapes from Aperture Laboratories. You're armed with your Portal gun, and you make your way through various test chambers to escape. The sequel improves on the foundation set by the original, adding new mechanics like light bridges and goo, and including a story that will make you scratch your head. The graphics aren't top- notch, but who cares? The writing is rock solid, and I found myself laughing out loud at Wheatley's witty remarks and Glados's insults.
Number 3: Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception
When I bought my PS3 last year on Black Friday, I made sure to pick up Uncharted 3 as the first game I would play on my new system. Two months later, and I'm still playing it on a regular basis. Nathan Drake and company are back, and they've got another globe trotting adventure to embark on, involving Nate and Sully's past. The story matches that of Uncharted 2, and the graphics and gameplay heavily outdo the original. The game is short, but you've got 100 treasures to find among the levels, and the multiplayer will keep you around long after the campaign is finished. A true treasure.
Number 2: The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword
Like I said, it was a rough year for Nintendo, especially on the Wii. Thankfully, the one big title for the Wii delivered, and Skyward Sword takes it place at the top of my list of best Zelda games. The Wii Motion Plus adds an all new dimension to the game, and motion control is, I believe, the future of the franchise. The storytelling is brilliant, and Skyloft and the flying mechanics work like a charm. The host of new characters and beautiful graphics and music only add to the fact that this is the greatest Wii game of all time.
Number 1: Batman: Arkham City
I don't exactly know what I expected diving into Arkham City. Having not played Asylum, I was a bit confused at why I would want to play this game anyways. Tons of hours in, however, and I've found out why. You are Batman. That's the game. The plot of Arkham City is great and well fleshed out by a number of characters, and comic book fans will get a kick out of seeing all their villains in one game. As you glide around Arkham City as the famed Caped Crusader, you solve the mystery and get to the bottom of what the heck is going on. The combat succeeds in being simple enough for new players to get, and being complicated enough for vets to have fun. Challenge maps and side-quests extend the replay value greatly, and new playable characters like Catwoman help too. Arkham City is the Batman experience, and the reason to own a PS3 or 360 this winter.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Super Mario 3D Land Review
P.S. Sorry for my absence over early fall, everyone, it was a rough time for me. But now I'm back as we head into what I think might be the greatest holiday season for not only video games, but movies and tv as well.
Super Mario 3D Land Review (3DS)
Nintendo promised earlier this year, that Mario's first 3D outing would be his best. Super Mario 3D Land mashes-up both the 2D side-scrolling Mario with the 3D exploration Mario. The result? A game that feels fresh and exciting, even though you won't find a lot of new things.
The story, as in most Mario games, is as simple as can be. A special tree in the Mushroom Kingdom is hit by a storm, and all of its leaves have blown off, the leaves have been scattered around the Kingdom in the form of Tanooki tails (more on that later). Mario and toads stumble upon this tree in the morning, and notice a letter from Bowser and, yes, once again, he has kidnapped Princess Peach. The story isn't meant to be all cinematic and plot-like, because that's the beauty of Mario games. Its simple story is enough to keep you interested, and it makes up for lack of story in the gameplay department.
Super Mario 3D Land, like said above, is a mix of 2D and 3D Mario. I think of the game as a blend of Super Mario Bros. 3 and Super Mario Galaxy, and the result is something magical. The game is set-up in 8 worlds, with more being unlocked after completion, and Mario ventures through each level in the worlds, usually 5, to reach Bowser and rescue Peach. There is a fun little "world map" that represents each level, and Mario can jump between worlds and access toad houses this way. Each level contains 3 star coins for Mario to collect, and these can be brutal towards the end. The levels themselves start very easy, and a Mario veteran could breeze through the first 8 worlds in about 5 hours. Upon completion, however, a special counterpart to every world is unlocked, and these contain extra challenges like time constraints or Cosmic Marios, and I died a ton during these.
The most refreshing part of Super Mario 3D Land is its levels and gameplay. Each level has a flag at the end, and a time limit, which makes it feel like 2D mario. However, the levels encourage exploration, and there are hidden alcoves and lots of other areas to explore, making it feel 3D, as well. Power-ups are aplenty in Super Mario 3D Land. The Tanooki leaf is back, along with its tail-swiping and fluttering abilities, and a new leaf is unlocked after you beat the game. Mario's signature Fire Flower is back, along with the regular Super Mushroom. New is the Boomerang Suit, which gives Mario the ability to throw boomerangs, perfect for getting flying enemies or multiple Goombas at once. Also, a Propeller Box is returning from New Super Mario Bros. Wii, which allows Mario to soar to great heights. The only problem I found with these were that they felt too common, and a power-up felt more of a regular, rather than an exciting surprise. They're a lot of fun, but the game seems to just give you these out for free. Mario controls just like he used to, and you'll be running and jumping in no time. The only problem is some of his moves, like long jump and high jump, aren't even necessary, unlike in Super Mario Galaxy 2, and I completed the game without even realizing that they were there. This discourages fast movement and shortcuts, which limits replay value.
Here's my one problem with the game: difficulty. The game starts out slow, and I barely died on my way to World 8. Sure, it picks up at the end, and Mario vets shouldn't be turned off by the early easiness. The problem is there are many additions to the game that make it easy. First, Mario starts each level as Super Mario, so he can take two hits at the beginning instead of one. Second, power-ups are everywhere, giving Mario extra support. 1-Ups aren't even difficult to get, and bonus rooms are all over each level. Getting to the top of the flagpole isn't nearly as hard as it used to be, and I finished World 8 with over 100 lives, which shouldn't be right. If you die, you get free power ups instantly, and a golden Tanooki suit and P-Wing make the game even simpler.
The 3D effect in Super Mario 3D Land is astounding. This game was clearly made for 3D, and it shows. Special rooms are impossible to play without the 3D, and cleverly hidden coins make for interesting 3D puzzles. Bullet bills and fireballs come right out the screen, and you even have the option to choose pop-out 3D or depth 3D at the start of each level. The soundtrack is nothing special, and I would have preferred to see more orchestral pieces akin to Galaxy, and less happy, jumpy tunes, but the soundtrack is still very catchy and fun. There's no multiplayer option, but you can share your completed bonus boxes with friends, and it's fun to compete for best times on each level.
Super Mario 3D Land is an excellent mix of 2D platforming Mario and 3D exploration Mario. The level design is brilliant, as is the wonderful 3D effect. The only turn-off is difficulty, but that's no reason to shun this wonderful 3DS title.
Pros:
Fantastic Level Design
Clever Mix of Old and New
Great Graphics and 3D
Cons:
Easy as Pie!
Limited Controls
Overall: 8.5/10.0
Super Mario 3D Land Review (3DS)
Nintendo promised earlier this year, that Mario's first 3D outing would be his best. Super Mario 3D Land mashes-up both the 2D side-scrolling Mario with the 3D exploration Mario. The result? A game that feels fresh and exciting, even though you won't find a lot of new things.
The story, as in most Mario games, is as simple as can be. A special tree in the Mushroom Kingdom is hit by a storm, and all of its leaves have blown off, the leaves have been scattered around the Kingdom in the form of Tanooki tails (more on that later). Mario and toads stumble upon this tree in the morning, and notice a letter from Bowser and, yes, once again, he has kidnapped Princess Peach. The story isn't meant to be all cinematic and plot-like, because that's the beauty of Mario games. Its simple story is enough to keep you interested, and it makes up for lack of story in the gameplay department.
Super Mario 3D Land, like said above, is a mix of 2D and 3D Mario. I think of the game as a blend of Super Mario Bros. 3 and Super Mario Galaxy, and the result is something magical. The game is set-up in 8 worlds, with more being unlocked after completion, and Mario ventures through each level in the worlds, usually 5, to reach Bowser and rescue Peach. There is a fun little "world map" that represents each level, and Mario can jump between worlds and access toad houses this way. Each level contains 3 star coins for Mario to collect, and these can be brutal towards the end. The levels themselves start very easy, and a Mario veteran could breeze through the first 8 worlds in about 5 hours. Upon completion, however, a special counterpart to every world is unlocked, and these contain extra challenges like time constraints or Cosmic Marios, and I died a ton during these.
The most refreshing part of Super Mario 3D Land is its levels and gameplay. Each level has a flag at the end, and a time limit, which makes it feel like 2D mario. However, the levels encourage exploration, and there are hidden alcoves and lots of other areas to explore, making it feel 3D, as well. Power-ups are aplenty in Super Mario 3D Land. The Tanooki leaf is back, along with its tail-swiping and fluttering abilities, and a new leaf is unlocked after you beat the game. Mario's signature Fire Flower is back, along with the regular Super Mushroom. New is the Boomerang Suit, which gives Mario the ability to throw boomerangs, perfect for getting flying enemies or multiple Goombas at once. Also, a Propeller Box is returning from New Super Mario Bros. Wii, which allows Mario to soar to great heights. The only problem I found with these were that they felt too common, and a power-up felt more of a regular, rather than an exciting surprise. They're a lot of fun, but the game seems to just give you these out for free. Mario controls just like he used to, and you'll be running and jumping in no time. The only problem is some of his moves, like long jump and high jump, aren't even necessary, unlike in Super Mario Galaxy 2, and I completed the game without even realizing that they were there. This discourages fast movement and shortcuts, which limits replay value.
Here's my one problem with the game: difficulty. The game starts out slow, and I barely died on my way to World 8. Sure, it picks up at the end, and Mario vets shouldn't be turned off by the early easiness. The problem is there are many additions to the game that make it easy. First, Mario starts each level as Super Mario, so he can take two hits at the beginning instead of one. Second, power-ups are everywhere, giving Mario extra support. 1-Ups aren't even difficult to get, and bonus rooms are all over each level. Getting to the top of the flagpole isn't nearly as hard as it used to be, and I finished World 8 with over 100 lives, which shouldn't be right. If you die, you get free power ups instantly, and a golden Tanooki suit and P-Wing make the game even simpler.
The 3D effect in Super Mario 3D Land is astounding. This game was clearly made for 3D, and it shows. Special rooms are impossible to play without the 3D, and cleverly hidden coins make for interesting 3D puzzles. Bullet bills and fireballs come right out the screen, and you even have the option to choose pop-out 3D or depth 3D at the start of each level. The soundtrack is nothing special, and I would have preferred to see more orchestral pieces akin to Galaxy, and less happy, jumpy tunes, but the soundtrack is still very catchy and fun. There's no multiplayer option, but you can share your completed bonus boxes with friends, and it's fun to compete for best times on each level.
Super Mario 3D Land is an excellent mix of 2D platforming Mario and 3D exploration Mario. The level design is brilliant, as is the wonderful 3D effect. The only turn-off is difficulty, but that's no reason to shun this wonderful 3DS title.
Pros:
Fantastic Level Design
Clever Mix of Old and New
Great Graphics and 3D
Cons:
Easy as Pie!
Limited Controls
Overall: 8.5/10.0
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Breaking News: Steve Jobs, CEO of Apple, Dead at 56
Apple CEO Steve Jobs lost his battle with cancer today. He was 56 years old. He will be deeply missed. There's no denying that he changed technology for the better. Like him or hate him, Steve Jobs has had a huge impact. I remember having to do a report on a famous admirer back in 7th grade. I chose Jobs. I grew to respect him, as I began to realize all the contributions he's had. Without him, I wouldn't be typing this (on my Mac). Without him, I wouldn't be listening to music everywhere I went. Not only was he the founder of Apple, but he also helped Pixar Animation Studios get off the ground. Two of the largest and most influential businesses in the world. I hope the best for his family and for Apple.
http://www.cnn.com/2011/10/05/us/obit-steve-jobs/index.html?iref=BN1&hpt=hp_t1
http://www.cnn.com/2011/10/05/us/obit-steve-jobs/index.html?iref=BN1&hpt=hp_t1
James Bond 23 Title Revealed??
The site WhatCulture! has revealed this afternoon, that a dozen of domain names containing the name "Skyfall" have been registered under Sony. These URLs contain James Bond buzz words like his name, as well as the words "film" in them.
http://whois.domaintools.com/jamesbond-skyfall.com
http://whois.domaintools.com/jamesbond-skyfall.net
http://whois.domaintools.com/jamesbondskyfall.com
http://whois.domaintools.com/jamesbondskyfall.net
http://whois.domaintools.com/skyfall-film.net
http://whois.domaintools.com/skyfall-thefilm.com
http://whois.domaintools.com/skyfall-thefilm.net
http://whois.domaintools.com/skyfall-themovie.com
http://whois.domaintools.com/skyfall-themovie.net
http://whois.domaintools.com/skyfallfilm.net
http://whois.domaintools.com/skyfallmovie.net
http://whois.domaintools.com/skyfallthefilm.com
http://whois.domaintools.com/skyfallthefilm.net
http://whois.domaintools.com/skyfallthemovie.com
http://whois.domaintools.com/skyfallthemovie.com
If this is true, not only would it be awesome, but it would be the first James Bond movie with a unique name since Die Another Day back in 2002. Even though a few Fleming novels have yet to have been turned into movies, such as Property of a Lady and 007 in New York, this can be an almost confirmation that the name will be Skyfall.
To me, this sounds like the name of a video game more, but hey, I'm not complaining. It has a Bond-y feel to it, and the movie would most likely involve an aerial atmosphere, hence the name SKYfall. Filming has yet to begin, although it will soon, for a wide release on November 9th, 2012.
http://whois.domaintools.com/jamesbond-skyfall.com
http://whois.domaintools.com/jamesbond-skyfall.net
http://whois.domaintools.com/jamesbondskyfall.com
http://whois.domaintools.com/jamesbondskyfall.net
http://whois.domaintools.com/skyfall-film.net
http://whois.domaintools.com/skyfall-thefilm.com
http://whois.domaintools.com/skyfall-thefilm.net
http://whois.domaintools.com/skyfall-themovie.com
http://whois.domaintools.com/skyfall-themovie.net
http://whois.domaintools.com/skyfallfilm.net
http://whois.domaintools.com/skyfallmovie.net
http://whois.domaintools.com/skyfallthefilm.com
http://whois.domaintools.com/skyfallthefilm.net
http://whois.domaintools.com/skyfallthemovie.com
http://whois.domaintools.com/skyfallthemovie.com
If this is true, not only would it be awesome, but it would be the first James Bond movie with a unique name since Die Another Day back in 2002. Even though a few Fleming novels have yet to have been turned into movies, such as Property of a Lady and 007 in New York, this can be an almost confirmation that the name will be Skyfall.
To me, this sounds like the name of a video game more, but hey, I'm not complaining. It has a Bond-y feel to it, and the movie would most likely involve an aerial atmosphere, hence the name SKYfall. Filming has yet to begin, although it will soon, for a wide release on November 9th, 2012.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Kindle Explosion!
At Amazon's not-so-mysterious press conference today, they showed off the newest family of Kindles, as well as a completely new product, the Kindle Fire.
The newest fourth generation Kindle ditches the keyboard completely, and leaves you with a big home button, 4-way controller, and the page turners. The device is a lot smaller, as well, and much more lightweight. You get all the benefits of the Kindle software, like access to millions of books, newspapers, magazines, and more. Nothing really "new" has been added to this Kindle, with the exception of the hardware. The 4th generation Kindle is out now and retails for $79 with special offers or $109 without.
Next is the Kindle Touch, and Kindle Touch 3G. The names give away the fact that, yes, finally, the Kindle has a touch screen, allowing it to compete with such eReaders as the Nook. All the regular Kindle features are back, as well. The Wi-Fi version costs $99 and the 3G + Wi-Fi costs $149, and they will be released on November 21st.
Lastly, the big announcement, is Amazon's answer to the tablet explosion. Albeit a little late to the party, the Kindle Fire is an impressive device. Full color multi-touch screen, with access to ALL of Amazon's fantastic content. That means music, movies, tv shows, books, magazines, newspapers, blogs, games, the list goes on and on. The Kindle Fire features a fast, dual-core processor, allowing for ultra-fast web browsing from Amazon Silk, Amazon's speedy web browser that supports Adobe Flash. Also included is free storage in Amazon Cloud, meaning all your digital content is readily available for use. Email is also featured, as well as PDF reading. Buyers will also be rewarded with one free month of Amazon Prime, Amazon's movie and tv service. Kindle Fire comes pre-loaded for your use, and you don't even need a computer to use it. Battery life is a disappointing 8 hours, and the device only supports Wi-Fi, although a 3G one sounds imminent. Kindle Fire sells for $199, surprisingly cheap, and will be available on November 15th, just in time for the holidays. I'll have my full thoughts up later this week.
P.S. My computer finally works again, so expect more blog posts from me in the future!
The newest fourth generation Kindle ditches the keyboard completely, and leaves you with a big home button, 4-way controller, and the page turners. The device is a lot smaller, as well, and much more lightweight. You get all the benefits of the Kindle software, like access to millions of books, newspapers, magazines, and more. Nothing really "new" has been added to this Kindle, with the exception of the hardware. The 4th generation Kindle is out now and retails for $79 with special offers or $109 without.
Next is the Kindle Touch, and Kindle Touch 3G. The names give away the fact that, yes, finally, the Kindle has a touch screen, allowing it to compete with such eReaders as the Nook. All the regular Kindle features are back, as well. The Wi-Fi version costs $99 and the 3G + Wi-Fi costs $149, and they will be released on November 21st.
Lastly, the big announcement, is Amazon's answer to the tablet explosion. Albeit a little late to the party, the Kindle Fire is an impressive device. Full color multi-touch screen, with access to ALL of Amazon's fantastic content. That means music, movies, tv shows, books, magazines, newspapers, blogs, games, the list goes on and on. The Kindle Fire features a fast, dual-core processor, allowing for ultra-fast web browsing from Amazon Silk, Amazon's speedy web browser that supports Adobe Flash. Also included is free storage in Amazon Cloud, meaning all your digital content is readily available for use. Email is also featured, as well as PDF reading. Buyers will also be rewarded with one free month of Amazon Prime, Amazon's movie and tv service. Kindle Fire comes pre-loaded for your use, and you don't even need a computer to use it. Battery life is a disappointing 8 hours, and the device only supports Wi-Fi, although a 3G one sounds imminent. Kindle Fire sells for $199, surprisingly cheap, and will be available on November 15th, just in time for the holidays. I'll have my full thoughts up later this week.
P.S. My computer finally works again, so expect more blog posts from me in the future!
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass vs. Spirit Tracks
As both Zelda entries for the Nintendo DS, Phantom Hourglass and Spirit Tracks weren't exactly what Zelda fans were looking for. They were too similar, and too similar to other additions to the franchise, namely Wind Waker. Therefore, I'm going to explain which is better, for your buying sake. Spirit Tracks is definitely better than Phantom Hourglass, for a variety of reasons.
First, the mode of transportation. We already saw a boat in Wind Waker, so boating in PH was no real thrill, and it felt like a chore, and kind of an afterthought. There weren't nearly as many islands in PH as there were in WW, and you lost the sense of exploration like there was in WW when you were exploring a gigantic 7x7 map. In ST, however, we were introduced to train conductor Link, traveling around Hyrule on a steam locomotive. This worked great. The touch controls were easy to use, the cannon was a blast (lol), and it was just much more exciting, as you explored all four regions. You also got a sense of discovery, thinking, "what's around this bend?", and you were enticed to explore.
Second, the central dungeon, as explained above. PH had the Temple of the Ocean King, which you were required to return to and re-explore after each main dungeon. The hourglass gimmick was fun, and racing around the temple before time ran out was a bit nerve-wracking and exciting, but having to re-visit the temple upwards to 5 times was a real chore, and it just became not fun after the first few times. ST kept this same idea of a central dungeon, but it was presented differently. After completing each realm, you unlocked another floor of the tower, and this was completely different from the floor below it, presenting a wholly original challenge each time.
Third, the gameplay that made ST great just wasn't there in PH. PH felt way too similar to WW, and while, I wouldn't mind that, I don't want two identical clones, they have to be at least a bit unique. ST felt new, and even with the similar graphical style, I didn't let that stop me from enjoying an adventure different from PH. Having Zelda along for the ride was a welcome treat, and a constant companion with you was a nice change in the formula. The items in ST were also better suited for the type of game that it is. For example, in PH you receive items identical to games before it, not providing you with much variety, but rather with a sense of deja-vu. ST, on the other hand, had the whip, which was all new, and it was used in very unique ways both in and outside the ocean realm. Also, the deku spinning thing was also cool, and it made for different and more challenging puzzles. The last element that trumps PH is the addition of the Spirit Flute. Similar to the Ocarina and Wind Waker, the spirit flute allowed you to play various songs to trigger outside events. The DS microphone and stylus were put to great use, and, although not very bus-friendly, it was a lot of fun playing the duets with the lokomos.
First, the mode of transportation. We already saw a boat in Wind Waker, so boating in PH was no real thrill, and it felt like a chore, and kind of an afterthought. There weren't nearly as many islands in PH as there were in WW, and you lost the sense of exploration like there was in WW when you were exploring a gigantic 7x7 map. In ST, however, we were introduced to train conductor Link, traveling around Hyrule on a steam locomotive. This worked great. The touch controls were easy to use, the cannon was a blast (lol), and it was just much more exciting, as you explored all four regions. You also got a sense of discovery, thinking, "what's around this bend?", and you were enticed to explore.
Second, the central dungeon, as explained above. PH had the Temple of the Ocean King, which you were required to return to and re-explore after each main dungeon. The hourglass gimmick was fun, and racing around the temple before time ran out was a bit nerve-wracking and exciting, but having to re-visit the temple upwards to 5 times was a real chore, and it just became not fun after the first few times. ST kept this same idea of a central dungeon, but it was presented differently. After completing each realm, you unlocked another floor of the tower, and this was completely different from the floor below it, presenting a wholly original challenge each time.
Third, the gameplay that made ST great just wasn't there in PH. PH felt way too similar to WW, and while, I wouldn't mind that, I don't want two identical clones, they have to be at least a bit unique. ST felt new, and even with the similar graphical style, I didn't let that stop me from enjoying an adventure different from PH. Having Zelda along for the ride was a welcome treat, and a constant companion with you was a nice change in the formula. The items in ST were also better suited for the type of game that it is. For example, in PH you receive items identical to games before it, not providing you with much variety, but rather with a sense of deja-vu. ST, on the other hand, had the whip, which was all new, and it was used in very unique ways both in and outside the ocean realm. Also, the deku spinning thing was also cool, and it made for different and more challenging puzzles. The last element that trumps PH is the addition of the Spirit Flute. Similar to the Ocarina and Wind Waker, the spirit flute allowed you to play various songs to trigger outside events. The DS microphone and stylus were put to great use, and, although not very bus-friendly, it was a lot of fun playing the duets with the lokomos.
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