Need for Speed: Shift (PC)
Dungeons & Dragons Online: Eberron Unlimited
Publisher: Turbine Entertainment
Category: Role-Playing
Release Dates
Online - 09/09/2009
Dungeons & Dragons Online: Eberron Unlimited Preview
In many ways, Eberron Unlimited is not a “new” release for the Dungeons & Dragons Online massively multiplayer online game from Turbine; it really qualifies more as a re-imagined upgrade for the game.
While not launching until August 4, Turbine agreed to allow a look at the model in development during a beta release and what Eberron Unlimited brings foremost to the table is a micro-transaction window that will allow players to open the window and buy items from just about anywhere in the game.
What does that mean? If you have the coin in the account, which you can purchase with real-world currency, you can be in the midst of a dungeon and buy health potions. But there is much more to it than that. There is a new race that can be purchased from within the game, and a new class – the Favored Soul.
The level cap is being raised to 20 and under the new model, players can buy the adventures they want rather than pay a monthly subscription fee. The system is geared to allow players to pay for what they want, rather than be saddled with the elements of the game they do not care for.
The rise in the player cap means new skills and the new class is one of those where players can go either on the healing side or go damage-oriented. But the Favored Soul is more than just spells. The class is also pretty handy with weapons as well.
Improvements are being made to the combat system as well and the marketplace is one again thriving.
For those who have not played D&D Online (often referred to as DDO), this is one of the quintessential dungeon crawlers that allows players to gather in main city areas, and then either group for dungeon quests or enter them solo (as you enter the dungeon you are given many options as to the difficulty level and one of them is the solo dungeon). Each of the quests tells part of the overriding story and it is all about the drops as well as the adventure.
There seems to have been some graphical updates to the game since it was rewied on Just-Gamers back in May of 2006, and this is now looking much crisper and is more of a treat to the eyes than previously remembered.
It was a nice journey back to Ebberon, and the EU edition was a surprise in many regards.
There are new adventure packs available (for purchase) and these even include a 12-player raid.
The taste of DDO: EU was a short one, to be certain, but the game sparkled in many ways and fans of the D&D ruleset, role-playing games and fantasy dungeon crawlers should find much to like about this game. The micro-transaction format might not be to everyone’s liking, but the way it seems to be implemented in EU is a thoughtful one that puts the premium on players getting the most out of their experience by being able to customize it.
Brink
Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
Developer: Splash Damage
Category: Driving
Release Dates
N Amer - Spring 2010
Brink Preview
E3 2009 Preview
If one looks at the pedigree of Splash Damage, it is a simple step toward understanding that this is a developer that understands the shooter genre. After all, Splash Damage worked with id Software on the very popular Enemy Territory title.
Welcome to 2009 and a partnership with Bethesda Softworks for Brink, a futuristic shooter title that applies new movement mechanics and fast-paced action to propel gamers into a world teetering on the edge.
Brink takes place in the year 2035, after the rising level of the oceans have forced societies that are on floating cities. Of course, there is social faction competition and that leads to the core conflict within the game. Players can choose to work the side of the rebel forces, or take on the role of the security forces in the game.
New gameplay mechanics revolve around the SMART system – which stands for Smooth Movement Across Random Terrain. In previous games players would run toward a barrier and stop upon reaching it. With SMART, players would vault the barrier without having to trigger the action with other keys. If you look up to a reachable ledge, you will jump up and clamor to the top of that without having to manually perform the movements.
Players can also create a unique character in terms of the look of the character and there are multiple costume customization options. Missions are also generated contextually as you are moving through the game. In the level shown, the demo’d character was on an escort mission for a defusing robot, when the Splash Damage rep found a hub, changed to an engineer, which dynamically altered the missions available in a pull-up hub. Because the level shown was in a cooperative mode, when the controlled character changed from a soldier to an engineer, that also triggered changes in missions available for other players in the assault team.
If you didn’t get it by now, that means the game can be played both online and offline. Different classes have different experience rewards and the game does have a bit of a role-playing feel in that you can level characters and acquire new items for load-outs.
Like most shooters, Brink has stock elements like sniper mode for the weapon equipped and players can also melee, or conduct interrogations using a shock-like instrument that tortures the target into wanting to supply the information needed.
The cooperative mode will allow up to eight players, and the number of players involved in straightout versus multiplayer still has yet to be determined. The game was in the pre-alpha development phase, so other areas of the game, like the user interface, has not been finalized.
The game is looking very good, with terrific lighting and shadow effects, and environmental texturing. The dialogue was also well done for the stage the game was in, with personalities clearly reflected in the narrative.
Brink is looking very good for its stage of development and will be releasing on the PS3, 360 and PC in the spring of 2010.
Borderlands
Publisher: 2K Games
Developer: Gearbox Software
Category: Action
Release Dates
N Amer - 10/20/2009
Intl - 10/23/2009
Borderlands Preview
E3 2009 Preview
Do you love Halo? What about Diablo? Well if so, then Borderlands may be up your alley as Gearbox Software is ready to unleash their very first attempt at mixing the role-playing genre with the shooter genre. Are you ready to dig into the world of Pandora? If so, let’s take a deeper look at one of the year’s most anticipated titles.
Changing up the art style, Gearbox Software made it a point to refer to their new look as conceptual art rather than cel-shading. Having seen one of their artist’s tinkering around with the art style, the team decided to roll with the new look late in development since they determined it would be much more fitting as Borderlands is out to achieve a gritty world to embark through. On top of that, the title is set to feature realistic lighting, so they hope that their fans accept the new look with open arms.
Allowing for four-player co-op, Borderlands is much more about the multiplayer experience than it is about trekking through the world by your lonesome. Providing split screen, system link and online connectivity, Borderlands allows players to trade loot that is found within the session among the group. Many of the loot that is found are player specific, so it’s essential to communicate with one another on what you have found from your recently deceased enemies.
Demonstrating a mission on where one of the four main characters, Brick, heads off to kill spitter skags, Borderlands commands players to work together to accomplish tasks. From the killing of “Badass Fire Skags” (otherwise known as leaders in other games) to the battle of spider ants, Borderlands will employ several team scenarios where everyone will need to understand their basic role in the mission for it to work out.
For the role-playing aspects, the skill tree is decisively in-depth with each of the four characters having three different routes in their skill tree to dedicate points. Brick, the heavy hitter of the bunch, has abilities to go berserk and attack all of his enemies with his fists. This fury allows for an advantageous position over his enemies as they aren’t able to keep up. In addition, other characters in the game include: Mordecai the sniper, Lilith the faze walker (invisibility/cloaking ability), and Roland the all-around solider class that can heal his teammates.
The world of Pandora is a huge open space to explore and look for that “ultimate loot” that the four main characters are in search for. With over 160 missions and three big zones to traverse, the replay value Borderlands is being estimated to being up to 50-60 hours to complete everything in the game. If you are the type that wants to rush through everything, it has been said that you could finish it like any other normal shooter.
Launching at the tail end of 2009, Borderlands is set to release simultaneously for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC.
Alliance of Valiant Arms
Publisher: ijji.com
Developer: REDDUCK, A.V.A
Category: Action
Release Dates
N Amer - 2009
Alliance of Valiant Arms Preview
When you are invited into a massively multiplayer online game (MMOG), you can never be certain just what is in store. Now advance that with the notion of missions (in addition to your standard array of deathmatch modes) in a modern warfare setting, and you begin to define what makes up Alliance of Valiant Arms.
To be absolutely fair, AVA (as it is known for short) is not an entirely new concept. Back in February of 2007, K2Network launched War Rock, a map-based war game that sported the same general concepts in that you fought on enclosed maps with objectives well defined. But AVA looks to up the ante just a touch.
The idea is a simple one on the surface. Give players a nice selection of maps, give them three core builds to pick from (such as a sniper, a rifle man and point man) and then let them fight it out. The game has just entered closed beta, but GameZone was invited in for a media event a couple of days ago and found the server lag almost non-existent, the action fast-paced and the game’s graphics very well handled.
The game does not stray overly far from what one would expect of a shooter. You can shop for upgrades for your weapons, customize them to suit your build and some of the items will add buffs to your weapon. The weapon itself has seven attribute areas – damage, range, accuracy, stability, mobility, spray, and ammo. Now if you have gone down the path of sniper, you can buy a weapon, like the SV98, and then go into the customize mode to see what items might be available to buy to upgrade it. For example, you can buy a precision scope for 800 coins – this will add 5 to the damage, 3 to the range, 1 to the accuracy but -3 to stability.
Of course you can swap out weapons on the battlefield and if you die, you can change classes at the respawn. Thus it behooves players to plan ahead and buy weapons for every eventuality. You might start as a sniper but if your online team is all snipers, it might be a tough go if you are in the mission of escorting a tank through narrow streets. In order for that tank to run and stay functional, a player has to remain near it. You can also mount the top turret gun in the tank, but that makes you a sitting duck for a … well, a sniper.
You can also upgrade your armor, and even buy upgrades that allow you to carry more than one grenade into battle.
The game also keeps track of your online progress, showing how many wins you have been part of as well as tallying up your experience points en route to an officer ranking. The folks behind the title (ijji and REDDUCK) have big plans for the title, including hosting a tourney in November with the winner earning a trip to Korea to represent the U.S. in an international tourney.
The game modes were limited to just a few in the beta, but there were quite a number of players engaged on different maps.
During the course of the media event, the bullets were flying fast and furious and a nice range of the modes were shown off. There are even modes that won’t allow players to respawn and dive back into the fight if they are killed. Imagine the embarrassment of not knowing that, running forward to find the enemy and finding a group of them waiting around the bend; dying within 30 seconds of the fight is a bit humiliating.
Maps do help players with navigation and finding the enemy.
The graphics and sound are both very nicely done. The game was launched at 1920x1080 and the definition in the environments, as well as in the characters, was very nice.
AVA is not reinventing the FPS MPOG genre, but it is offering a solid gaming experience.
Section 8
Publisher: SouthPeak Interactive
Developer: TimeGate Studios
# of Players: up to 32
Category: Action
Release Dates
N Amer - 09/04/2009
Digital Download - 09/04/2009
Intl - 09/10/2009
- Also available on:
- 360
Section 8 Preview
Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock for the past decade – or even if you have, for that matter – you’ve probably played more than your fair share of first-person shooters. Taking a glance at South Peak’s Section 8 might understandably yield little more than a shrug from the average gamer looking for a summer distraction. However, the full shooter experience offered by Section 8 is often greater than the sum of its parts.
Superficially, the game is obviously targeted toward a young male demographic. Brawny males in heavy powered suits running around with guns doesn’t exactly scream of originality; in fact, it resembles about half the games currently on the market. That being said, Section 8 does make a considerable effort to distinguish itself in an oversaturated genre. When the game opens with an introductory cinematic, there is no sign of the excessive gore, silly one-liners, or obnoxious rock music that pervades so many similar titles. Instead, we are offered a glimpse into the personal thoughts of a protagonist. With nearly poetic precision, he recalls the scene of a childhood birthday, a stark contrast to the cold interior of the armored carrier he currently occupies. He admits that his pending task has an element of “fun,” and this reminds him of what’s like to be a child. This seems to knock gently on the fourth wall of the game universe, a refreshing way to introduce a new story.
Whatever potential lies within the single-player narrative, it will remain a mystery for a while. This preview beta is focused exclusively on the multiplayer gameplay modes. Just as demonstrated in the opening cinematic, the player enters the field of battle by way of an airborne drop. This ties in surprisingly well with the online modes, as it allows you to select a spawn point which, rather than allowing you to magically appear on the map, offers you the chance to pinpoint a location of your choice in which to drop into the action. Once launched from your vessel in your powered battle suit, you assume control of the character before even hitting the ground. An airbrake is available to help slow your descent, and you can even maneuver slightly in the event that you should spot a more desirable patch of ground during your high-speed drop.
This also helps to cut down on those long hours you might have spent in other games, trudging through an enormous map, trying to reach the heart of the action, only to get shot down by some unseen sniper. Of course, many games do allow you select spawn points, but few have implemented it so stylishly. At the top of the HUD is the standard “tug-of-war” in points between the teams. This, combined with the frequent use of jetpack jumping, stirs up memories of Star Wars Battlefront. However, Section 8 seems to balance itself nicely by incorporating elements from multiple shooters. Fans of Call of Duty will instantly understand how to make use of the upgrade slots to build a better soldier, while any who’s played Halo will have no problem grasping the basic regenerating shield mechanic. The amalgamation of these elements works surprisingly well for Section 8. It takes the better bits from previous games and presents itself as something that is easy and intuitive to play.
In addition to the usual arsenal of firearms, Section 8 mixes things up with vehicular elements, as well as turrets. The pace and ease of navigation is also complemented by some of the aforementioned abilities. If a platform is just out of reach, you can activate your thrusters to access it. If you need to beat a hasty retreat or just don’t feel like taking it slow and safe, try a burst of speed and you’ll clear the terrain in no time. This might not always be preferable, of course. The introverted gamer might pause to admire the odd specular lighting effect or vibrantly colored landscape. The audio is similarly effective; it takes no tremendous risks, but the menu’s theme music is rather catchy. Section 8 doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel in any way. It merely presents itself as smartly-designed shooter, one that will certainly appeal to gamers hoping to satisfy their itchy trigger fingers.
Killing Floor
Publisher: Tripwire Interactive
Developer: Tripwire Interactive
Category: Action
Release Dates
Digital Download - 05/14/2009
Intl - 08/10/2009
N Amer - 09/15/2009
Description
Killing Floor is a first-person co-op survival horror, set in and around London after a mad scientist’s “specimens” have broken loose and gone on the rampage.
Features
- Co-op game mode for up to six players obliterating multiple waves of specimens
- Solo game mode for offline play
- Watch those crucial and violent creature deaths in slomo “ZEDtime”, even in multiplayer
- 9 different monster types trying to eat your face off, armed with everything from teeth and claws, through to chainsaws, chainguns and rocket-launchers
- 12+ weapons for the players to chose from, ranging from knives and fire-axes up to pump shotguns, rifles and a flamethrower
- Add in a welder, medical tools and body armor to help the players survive
- Persistent Perks system, allowing players to convert their in-game achievements into permanent improvements to their character’s skills and abilities
- Players choose which Perks to play with, so they can best balance out a co-op team to survive the horrors
- Open, non-linear play areas: choose when and where to fight – or run; weld doors closed to try and direct the monster horde
- Full support for Steamworks features, including Steam Achievements and Friends
- Fully-configurable, allowing players to change things as simple as the difficulty level or number of creature waves, or go so far as to set up their own favorite waves of monsters
- Includes SDK for the creation of new levels and mods
Hardware Requirements
- OS: Windows 2000/XP/Vista
- Processor: 1.2 GHZ or Equivalent
- Memory: 512 MB RAM
- Graphics: 64 MB DX9 Compliant
- Hard Drive: 2 GB free hard drive space
- Sound: DX 8.1 Compatible Audio
Recommended:
- OS: Windows 2000/XP/Vista
- Processor: 2.4 GHZ or Equivalent
- Memory: 1 GB RAM
- Graphics: 128 MB DX9 Compliant with PS 2.0 support
- Hard Drive: 2 GB free hard drive space
- Sound: Eax Compatible
Notes
Killing Floor is the new co-op survival-horror shooter from Tripwire Interactive, available 5/14/2009 on Steam.
Iceberg Interactive will publish in Europe.
Wolfenstein
Publisher: Activision Inc.
Publisher 2: id Software
Developer: Raven Software Corp.
Category: Action
Release Dates
N Amer - 08/18/2009
Description
Set within a near-fictional, historical WWII setting, players take on the role of the heroic OSA agent BJ Blazkowicz as they are thrust into the unknown and unexpected to battle against combat troops, otherworldly forces, and the dark science created by a supernatural Nazi force hell-bent on world domination. Wolfenstein offers players an action-packed experience as they investigate the powers of a dark parallel dimension, join with resistance forces, and employ an arsenal of conventional and otherworldly weapons in attempts to annihilate the Nazi war machine. Ensuring a deep variety of action, Wolfenstein provides gamers with an assortment of interlinked missions that drive an intense, story-driven combat experience; while the Wolfenstein multiplayer experience continues the world-renowned tradition of class-based team objective gameplay with a full arsenal of conventional and supernatural weapons for addictive online warfare.
Fallout 3 Mothership Zeta
Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
Category: Action
Release Dates
N Amer - 08/03/2009
Description
Defy hostile alien abductors and fight your way off of the massive Mothership Zeta, orbiting Earth miles above the Capital Wasteland. Mothership Zeta takes Fallout 3 in an entirely new direction – outer space. Meet new characters and join with them in a desperate bid to escape the Aliens’ clutches. To do so, you’ll wield powerful new weapons, like the Alien Atomizer, Alien Disintegrator, and Drone Cannon, and deck yourself out in brand new outfits, like the Gemini-Era Spacesuit and even Samurai Armor.
Features
- Find and exploit new and destructive alien technology, like the Alien Atomizer and Drone Cannon.
- Explore the vast Mothership and learn the secrets of the Aliens’ master plan.
- Thwart the Aliens’ attempt to stop your escape, and take over the Alien ship before it wreaks havoc on the unsuspecting Earth below.
- Fight against the Alien Invaders, their robot drones, and turn their own horrible experiments against them.
- Ally yourself with an unexpected array of characters, both from the Capital Wasteland and from Earth ’s past.
Mass Effect: Pinnacle Station
Publisher: EA Games
Developer: BioWare Corporation
Category: Action
Release Dates
Digital Download - 08/27/2009
- Also available on:
- 360
Description
Mass Effect: Pinnacle Station is a Game Add-on for the original Mass Effect game and the first episode in the epic trilogy. The Game Add-On for the 2007 award-winning Xbox 360 and downloadable pack for the PC title introduces an intense combat challenge to the epic Mass Effect universe. Picking up where the first game ended, players will enter Pinnacle Station, a top-secret Alliance training facility. Featuring 13 scenarios ranging from fast-paced combat simulations to high-stakes winner-takes-all wagers, players will push their combat skills to the limit.
Trine
Publisher: SouthPeak Interactive
Developer: Frozenbyte
Category: Action
Release Dates
Intl - 07/10/2009
N Amer - 09/10/2009
Digital Download - 07/02/2009
- Also available on:
- PS3
Description
Trine is a fantasy action game where the player can create and use physics-based objects to beat hazardous puzzles and threatening enemies. Set in a world of great castles and strange machinery, three heroes are bound to a mysterious device called the Trine in a quest to save the kingdom from evil…
The gameplay is based on fully interactive physics - each character's different ability helps the player battle an army of un-dead and defeat hazardous contraptions. The player can at any time freely choose whoever is best suited for the upcoming challenge or puzzle: The Wizard is able to summon objects to help solve puzzles and create new ways to overcome obstacles, the Thief uses her agility and dead-on accuracy to swiftly surprise the monsters, and the Warrior unleashes mayhem and physical destruction wherever he goes.
“This is the first game we publish on the PlayStation Network and we are thrilled to work with Frozenbyte on this very exciting game project!” declares Arnaud Blacher, CEO of Nobilis Group.
Hardware Requirements
- OS: Windows XP, Windows Vista or Windows 7
- Processor: 2.0 GHz CPU (Dual-core recommended)
- Memory: 512 MB (XP), 1 GB (Vista)
- Graphics: Radeon X800 or GeForce 6800 or better
- DirectX®: 9.0c
- Hard Drive: 600 MB
- Sound: DirectX compatible soundcard (not required)
- Multiplayer: Gamepads required for co-op play
Video:
Red Faction Guerilla
Publisher: THQ
Developer: THQ
Category: Action
Release Dates
N Amer - 09/15/2009
Description
Set 50 years after the climactic events of the original Red Faction, Red Faction: Guerrilla allows players to take the role of an insurgent fighter with the newly re-established Red Faction movement as they battle for liberation from the oppressive Earth Defense Force. Red Faction: Guerrilla re-defines the limits of destruction-based game-play with a huge open-world, fast-paced guerrilla-style combat, and true physics-based destruction
Features
- Open world: Carve your own path wreaking havoc across the vast, open-world environment of Mars, from the desolate mining outpost of Parker to the gleaming EDF capital city of Eos.
- Fully destructible environment: Using improvised weapons, explosives, and re-purposed mining equipment and vehicles, tear through fully destructible alien environments and tear down the enemy EDF presence brick by brick.
- Multiplayer: Red Faction: Guerrillafeatures a robust multiplayer component, with several modes focused on destruction-based gameplay.
F.E.A.R. 2: Reborn
Publisher: Warner Bros. Interactive
Developer: Monolith Productions
Category: Action
Release Dates
Digital Download - 09/03/2009
Description
F.E.A.R. 2: Reborn immerses gamers in the chaos of Alma’s aftermath in an entirely new role: that of Replica Soldier Foxtrot 813. Gamers begin the mission as part of an orbital Powered Armor drop to reinforce their squad, and the ruined city of Auburn emanates supernatural events and familiar voices, beckoning Foxtrot813 to go against orders from Replica command. Be careful, not everything is as it seems…
Champions Online
Publisher: Atari
Developer: Cryptic Studios
Category: Role-Playing
Release Dates
N Amer - 09/01/2009
Online - 09/01/2009
Description
Champions Online takes the MMO genre to new heights with fast paced, "real time" action combat. This high flying action delivers a heroic feeling unlike anything experienced in another MMORPG, while the total customization of character creation takes the experience to the next level. Choose from thousands of costume pieces, body types, and modifications for a level of personalization never before imagined. Create unique power sets to break outside the prison of class archetypes - players can even choose the appearance, and style of their powers to complete their vision.
While players transform into the ultimate hero, the Nemesis system lets Champions Online's powerfulcustomization tools craft an enemy of the extreme opposite, a villain of nightmares. This ultimate adversary will appear throughout a hero's career, and even form diabolic supergroups to bedevil other players throughout the universe.
Champions Online brings epic heroism back to the MMORPG genre, with depth to challenge the most experienced online gamers and fast paced action to engage new entrants to the genre. Champions Online promises to redefine online gaming, now the only question is... What hero will you be?
Features
The First True Action MMO
- Hi-Octane Excitement: Champions Online delivers furious, fast-paced encounters previously reserved for action and fighting games. No more boring auto attacks and lengthy recharge times. Champions Online combat is instantaneous — and electrifying!
- Brains required: Every enemy and super-powered threat in Champions Online has its own unique abilities and combat specialties. Use your head — or wind up dead!
- Bring friends, make friends: The Champions Online universe will be jam-packed with thousands of heroes, facing thousands of threats. Join up with other heroes, create your own superteam, and prepare to take on the ultimate threats!
Be the Hero You Want To Be
- Your powers, on your terms: There are a multitude of astonishing powers to choose from in Champions Online, and its flexible character creation system gives you total control over your hero's abilities. You can even pick the appearance of your powers. Do you want purple force fields? Green fire blasts? Jet black claws? In Champions Online, you decide!
- Total customization, at your fingertips: Choose from thousands of different costume pieces, colors and body types to create your character's one-of-a-kind costume and look.
- Keep your enemies close: Every hero must have an archenemy. In Champions Online, you design your character's supreme adversary, choosing a name, powers and costume for a super powered foe to bedevil your hero throughout his or her career.
- Bigger and better: Vanquish evil, and your successes will be rewarded with costume pieces to enhance your powers and abilities. Then customize the appearance of those rewards to your vision of your hero's look and abilities!
Vast Universe
- Endless exploration: The battle against evil in Champions Online rages across the world. No other MMOG offers players the chance to explore such diverse realms — from the shining skyscrapers of Millennium City and the frozen wastes of Canada to the the hidden underwater city of Lemuria.
- Evil most foul: Battle supervillains, aliens, giant monsters and secret, sinister organizations. Doctor Destroyer is launching new plans to conquer the world. VIPER lurks in the shadows, seeking chances to strike at humanity. The ancient Lemurians are plotting a return to power. Can you stop these heinous threats to humanity?
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Death to Spies: Moment of Truth
Publisher: 1C
Publisher 2: Aspyr Media
Developer: Haggard Games
Category: Action
Release Dates
N Amer - 08/31/2009
Digital Download - 08/07/2009
Description
Moment of Truth is a sequel to the popular stealth action title Death to Spies. The game's main character is Semion Strogov, a captain in the 4th department of the Soviet counterintelligence service called SMERSH. SMERSH literally means in Russian, Death to Spies, which was the name for a set of counterintelligence departments in the Soviet Army formed during World War II. Strogov is back from his previous missions and must now participate in a series of even more complicated and exciting military operations under the code name "Death to Spies: Moment of Truth". The hero possesses all the skills required to accomplish especially dangerous missions including, getting information about the disposition of hostile military and civil units, assassination of enemy agents and representatives of Wehrmacht’s high-ranking officers and espionage. By the order of his supreme commander Strogov, who passed through a serious retraining, will have to accomplish various top secret missions. His task is to capture spies, saboteurs and gather information about their actions using unique technologies and devices.
Features
- Brand new missions located in Western and Eastern Europe, USA, in the UK and the territory of the former USSR
- New vehicles and weapons
- Enhanced animations and visuals
- New graphic effects: new landscape texturing with higher resolution and bump mapping effects, updated rendering with HDR and dithered shadows
- Improved interface
- Moment of Truth contains a lot of improvements based on the game community’s requests
Hardware Requirements
- Operating System: Windows 98/2000/XP/Vista
- Processor: Intel Pentium IV or AMD Athlon 2 - 2,4 GHz
- Memory: 1 GB
- Video card: NVIDIA GeForce 5700/ATI Radeon 9800 with 128 MB RAM or higher
- Sound card: DirectX Compatible Sound Card
- Hard disc: 3,8 GB
- CD ROM: DVD ROM
Recommended System Requirements
- Operating System: Windows 98/2000/XP/Vista
- Processor: Intel Pentium IV or AMD Athlon 2,8 GHz
- Memory: 2 GB
- Video card: NVIDIA GeForce 7800/ATI Radeon 1600 with 256 MB RAM or higher
- Sound card: DirectX Compatible Sound Card
- Hard disc: 3,8 GB
- CD ROM: DVD ROM
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DIMENSITY
Publisher: Strategy First
Developer: Dagger Games
Category: Role-Playing
Release Dates
Digital Download - 09/15/2009
Description
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DIMENSITY offers a unique 3D fantasy world with its own environments and inhabitants. The world has its legends, political plots and great historical battles. Geographically the civilized part of the world is surrounded by a great ocean and divided in two by great mountains. The north and the south are little known and veiled with myths and legends of a dark past. The major intelligent inhabitants are the Humans and the Firbolgs. The Humans have great kingdoms to the west of the mountains.
The most powerful is the Kingdom of Dumnoni, whose kings claim to be almighty and everyone must obey their orders. Far to the east of the mountains in hostile marshlands, the race of the Firbolgs united in ancient times and formed a shamanistic culture. Although the Humans often call them ‘Savages’, the Firbolgs are proud and just people. They are born in war, they live to fight and die in the name of the War God.
Little is known about the fearsome Ghosts. The knowledge of their origin seems lost in present days. However many of the scholars believe they are souls, that are bound to the world until they achieve the right to find rest in the true death.
Almost nothing is known about the Elementals. Actually many believe they haven’t existed at all. They are source of legends and myths and none has been able to see them for many generations.
At the present the Kingdom of Dumnoni tries to expand towards the territories of the Firbolgs and force them to kneel to the crown. A goal that proved not easy to achieve as the time revealed. The race of men is separated however by religious disjunction and many people disagree that the mighty kings of Dumnoni are true bearers of the will of gods.
Features
- Create a leader choosing from four available races (Human, Firbolg, Elemental and Ghost) with two classes each (warrior and mage).
- Make your hero advance learning from available skills and magic spells of your choice.
- Face more than 100 types of creatures and bosses.
- Explore an immersive and hostile Heroic Fantasy world.
- Raise structures of war and build an army to accompany you.
- Prevail in Multiplayer game which supports up to four players.
- Raise your level through multiple multiplayer sessions having all acquired skills and items.
Hardware Requirements
Minimum configuration
CPU: Intel Pentium 4 / AMD Athlon64 with SSE2
RAM: 512MB (1024 for Vista)
Graphics Card: DX9 T&L 64 Mb graphics card
Free Hard Disk Space: 3 GB
Peripherals: keyboard, mouse
Operating System: Windows XP, Windows Vista with latest updates and device drivers
DirectX 9.0c or higher
Sound Card: any DirectSound-compatible sound card
Recommended configuration
CPU: Intel Core 2 Duo / AMD Athlon64 X2
RAM: 1024MB (2048 for Vista)
Graphics Card: DX9 T&L 512 MB graphics card
Free Hard Disk Space: 3 GB
Peripherals: keyboard, mouse
Operating System: Windows XP, Windows Vista with latest updates and device drivers
DirectX 9.0c or higher
Sound Card: any DirectSound-compatible sound card
Video:
ORDER OF WAR
Publisher: Square Enix, Inc.
Developer: Wargaming.net
Category: Strategy
Release Dates
N Amer - 09/22/2009
Description
In the summer of 1944, the Second World War entered its end-game when the Allies launched two major operations that would drive back German forces on both the Western and Eastern Fronts at once.
In the ultimate test of military strategy, ORDER OF WAR will challenge you not only to lead America’s finest to victory in the west, but also place you in command of German forces charged with repelling the Red Army’s seemingly unstoppable offensive in the east.
Even the keenest military minds will find that it’s one thing to make history, but quite another to change it.
Do you have what it takes to command?
Features
- Experience WWII warfare on an epic, cinematic stage; that truly captures the intensity and scale of the battlefield
- Command of an entire armed force consisting of up to 1,000 soldiers, tanks, armored vehicles, artillery and air planes
- Players can choose between two different campaign modes offering completely different storylines, missions, objectives and environments
- Experience the unique dynamic camera that allows players to command troops over huge geographical scale whilst maintaining movie-like vistas and detail
- In-depth gameplay mode: two different campaign modes, multi-player, Deathmatch and Skirmish
Video:
Heroes Over Europe
Publisher: Ubisoft
Developer: Transmission Games
# of Players: 1-16
Category: Action
Release Dates
N Amer - 09/22/2009
Description
The sequel to the mighty World War II flight combat game Heroes of the Pacific, Heroes over Europe takes aspiring combat pilots into the bullet-ridden heart of major World War II European air battles in glorious dogfight-friendly high definition. Heroes over Europe follows the Allied campaign from the attacks on London to the destruction of Berlin, with players under orders to strap themselves into the authentically rendered cockpits of the campaign’s iconic aircraft. Their mission: to survive the most ferocious dogfights ever seen in a flight combat game.
Features
- Best tactical dogfights in HD: relive the best tactical dogfights in over 40 types of ultra-realistic iconic warplanes of the era, all presented in stunning high definition graphics with realistic localised damage on aircraft;
- Meticulously rendered environments: detailed landscapes and landmarks recreated in painstaking detail including faithful representations of London and Berlin to bring war-torn World War II to life;
- Legacy of ‘Heroes’ series: new instalment in the Heroes series builds on its impressive legacy with highly detailed realistic visual presentation and more online options;
- Comprehensive online gameplay: fight for the skies with 4 modes of online multiplayer action for up to 16 players;
- Downloadable content: additional downloadable content will be available from launch.
Video:
EverQuest II The Shards of Destiny
Publisher: Sony Online Entertainment
Developer: Sony Online Entertainment
Category: Role-Playing
Release Dates
Online - 09/23/2009
Description
EverQuest II’s game update, The Shards of Destiny is live now and brings sorrow and anger to the world of Norrath as there has been a mysterious disappearance of the famed Erollisi Marr, the goddess of love. Her absence has cast a dark cloud over Norrath and it is up to the players to travel to the Shard of Love and defeat the creatures they encounter to determine the fate of Erollisi Marr. In addition to the new storyline, players can also enjoy new features such as Chronomagic, housing additions and the all new achievement system.
Features
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Chronomagic: Down-tier your level to experience content you may have previously missed while you were leveling up
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Enter the Shard of Love: For the first time ever, players will be able to explore the home of Erollisi Marr
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All new 4x Dungeon: Test your skills in Miragul's Planar Shard
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Achievement System: Track and share your accomplishments with other players
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Housing Addition: All houses will receive a new room where you can use your creativity and expand your collections
Video:
Batman: Arkham Asylum
Publisher: EIDOS Interactive
Publisher 2: Warner Bros. Interactive
Developer: Rocksteady Studios
Category: Action
Release Dates
N Amer - 09/15/2009
Intl - 09/15/2009
Batman: Arkham Asylum Review
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Glink ItYou knew it was coming. When every masked vigilante and obscure superhero starts making appearances in games and film, the big guys are sure to make an appearance. Batman is arguably the most recognizable superhero ever conceived, yet when it comes time for such heroes to make a jump into the realm of digital gaming, they often fail to impress. The resurgence of Batman’s popularity following the acclaimed Nolan films suggests that a new game must be comparable in tone, with a dark and brutal atmosphere. Fans will rejoice in the knowledge that Batman’s latest venture, Arkham Asylum, is also his greatest yet.
Given the historically low bar for franchise-based video-games, this may seem a trivial achievement. However, this is not merely an excellent game. Arkham Asylum elevates Batman to the realm of his finest cinematic productions and most beloved graphic novel depictions. Interestingly, the design of the game is an amalgamation of several forms of Batman. The visual style, lavishly detailed thanks to the Unreal engine, mimics the style of a comic; Batman’s sculpted abdominal muscles are more reminiscent of a comic than a movie, while the Joker’s visage is freakishly exaggerated, truly a nightmarish clown of homicidal intent. There is also an obvious precedent for the voice acting in Arkham Asylum, with Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill playing the Batman and the Joker respectively, reprising their roles from the Batman Animated Series.
Also of note is the script, or more specifically, the person responsible for writing it. Paul Dini is known for his work on the Animated Series as well, but rarely are his talents displayed in such grandeur as this. The premise of Arkham Asylum is a simple one: the Joker has taken over, freed all the violent criminals within, and made the entire facility his own little circus with Batman under the spotlight, naturally. As the game progresses, it becomes clear that considerable thought has been given to the storyline – this is not just some mediocre action title with Batman-themed geometry. Dini’s vast experience with the characters, as well as the undisputed abilities of the cast, truly bring Arkham Asylum to life. The entire development team should be congratulated for creating a Batman world of unparalleled credibility.
This credibility is fundamental in creating what might be considered the first authentic Batman experience. It would not be stretch to call Arkham Asylum a “Batman Simulation”, in fact. As a comic-book character, it is the credibility of Batman’s world that makes him so compelling, not simply the realism. When you’re using “Detective Vision,” Batman is essentially scrutinizing multiple spectrums with a fidelity exceeding any known scanning equipment. Does any of this detract from the game? Of course not. It’s easy to throw fantastic elements around and write it off as “just a game”, but in the Batman universe, there is always a satisfactory excuse (Batman’s unique access to original and obscure technologies, for example). Perhaps more impressive is the fact that many will not even stop to question such things, because the game itself is so gloriously immersive.
Not surprisingly, Arkham Asylum seems to take more than a few hints from good ol’ Sam Fisher of Splinter Cell fame. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing; in fact, I would argue that Splinter Cell works so well, many of its mechanics are worth studying. One of the underlying principles of stealth-based gameplay is that you must see the enemy before they see you. This is obviously easier when the game is presented in third person, and when the player is able to find concealment in the shadows. The alternative vision modes are the most extreme example of heightened situational awareness. Enemies can stand out like a sore thumb, making the hunt seem almost too easy at times. The abilities of Batman might make him seem a little overpowered at times, but why complain? After all, he is a superhero, and that’s how it should be.
Within any given context, there are plenty of options for mixing things up, and acting out your very own Batman moments. Rappel down to an unsuspecting guard to snatch him up like an ambush predator. Watch his fellow inmates panic when they discover his limp body, suspended in the air like a hunting trophy. See them scatter and search, only to get picked off one at a time, victims of the terrifying Batman. Track them and hunt them, sneaking up on them from behind and striking from the shadows. Of course, Batman doesn’t actually “kill” his enemies, only knocking them unconscious before moving on to another area of interest. Rest assured, there is still plenty of violence to be had.
The hand-to-hand combat is simple enough that you won’t feel much fear when pummeling goons. Stringing together moves can be done with little more than a few successive attacks, and some variety can be found in the form of counters and special moves. This is probably the biggest fault I can find with Arkham Asylum. The combat feels a bit watered down to appeal to more casual gamers. It would have been nice to see more in the way of counter attacks, with Batman-esque moves that turn the enemies’ aggression against them. The boss battles, although visually interesting, are also something of a letdown – primarily because they simply do not feel like boss battles at all.
Despite these disappointments, Arkham Asylum is an outstanding piece of digital entertainment. The musical score is appropriately moody, the sounds effects have plenty of oomph, and the voice acting is easily some of the best you’ll get in a video game. It should come as no surprise that the PC version of Arkham Asylum happens to be the prettiest. In fact, if your PC can handle all the high-end effects, this will be one of the best looking games in your library. Unless you are absolutely disgusted by Batman or action games in general, there is really no reason to pass on Arkham Asylum. It is truly Batman’s finest hour.
| Review Scoring Details for Batman: Arkham Asylum |
Gameplay: 8.8
The boss fights and combat mechanics feel a little weak, but everything else works extremely well. Great pacing, variety, and some surprisingly good replayability thanks to the Riddler.
Graphics: 9.5
If your PC is up to snuff, I daresay that Batman has never looked so good.
Sound: 9.5
Superb audio design, with the voice performances being one of the game’s strongest points.
Difficulty: Easy/Medium
Batman dominates his foes physically, but there’s plenty of mayhem to keep him on his toes.
Concept: 9.0
Alright, so it’s Batman. Even so, the story is original, and the blend of combat, stealth, and detective gameplay is really fantastic.
Overall: 9.2
This is the first game that truly grants players an opportunity to be Batman, whether he’s using his intellect or his fists. Anyone with even a modicum of interest in playing an awesome Batman game should pick up Arkham Asylum, without any hesitation.
Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen
Publisher: Activision Inc.
Developer: Beenox Studios
Category: Action
Release Dates
N Amer - 06/23/2009
Description
Based on Hasbro’s legendary TRANSFORMERS property and one of the most anticipated films of 2009 from Paramount Pictures and DreamWorks Pictures, Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen thrusts players into a battle for supremacy across the globe as either AUTOBOTS or DECEPTICONS to drive, fly, fight and blast their way through intense, pressure-packed levels. Delivering more control than ever before, players can select from an extremely diverse range of playable TRANSFORMERS – each with distinct personalities, abilities and weaponry – and jump straight into action as they instantly switch between robot, vehicle and weapon modes to fight for the preservation or annihilation of all mankind. For the first time in the TRANSFORMERS universe, players can also fight the epic war between the AUTOBOTS and DECEPTICONS online in explosive, multiplayer combat.
Features
- The Choice Is Yours – Players can take on the role of their favorite AUTOBOTS and DECEPTICONS such as Optimus Prime, Starscream, Bumblebee and Ironhide, along with new characters making their first appearance in a game. With two distinct campaigns that allow players to save or destroy the human race, players can unlock and play missions in any order and with different characters for a whole new experience.
- Outmaneuver Your Opponents – Instantaneously convert from a colossal robot to a dynamic land or air vehicle such as a diesel truck, sports car, military chopper or fighter jet. New, ultra-fluid transformations can be performed in-motion anytime and anywhere, allowing players to strategically propel through and decimate hordes of enemies with incredible agility.
- Take the Battle Online with Friends – For the first time ever in the TRANSFORMERS universe, players can engage in full, multiplayer action, taking the epic war between the AUTOBOTS and DECEPTICONS online to play with friends in a multitude of competitive game modes as they utilize their characters’ unique weapons and abilities to lead their teams to victory.
- Demolish Your Enemies – Each TRANSFORMER can unleash a unique array of assaults on its enemies – ranging from powerful missile attacks and rapid-fire chain guns to explosive energy blasts and visceral melee strikes – allowing players to pick from a variety of weapons and moves in their character’s arsenal and experience diverse gameplay in every brutal encounter.
- Intense, Heroic Missions – Every second counts as players drive, fly, fight and blast their way through gripping, pulse-pounding levels straight from the film and beyond to determine the ultimate fate of the world.
Aion
Description
A mighty Celestial War has torn the once peaceful world of Atreia apart at the seams. In the wake of this catastrophic ba le,just a few will ascend into divinity and save their people from total annihilation.
A Class of Your Own
Choose from four unique character classes, gain experience and advance in one of two specialised classes. Your decisions will determine your path through Atreia, make them wisely…
Explore the Unknown
Discover the inside of a world broken in two, where the only thing that connects either side is an unstable and perilous ri known as the Abyss. Choose between two divine factions, the Asmodian or the Elyos, and save your people from an ancient evil that threatens to destroy everything in its path.
A New Breed of Combat for control of valuable strongholds and artefacts within the Abyss, a hotly contested bale eld resting between the upper and lower halves of Atreia. Plan and execute raids against rival factions, earn special ranks and rewards through victory, and prepare for unexpected attacks by the Balaur
Features
- For the first time in the MMORPG genre – Aion brings PvP and PvE together. PvPvE
manages the complex relationships between races and guilds and also controls the
mighty Dragons, a non-player faction and a common enemy to all players. - Take combat to the skies – Flying is not just a means of transportation.
Flight is an extension of the combat system and can be an integral
part of taking on your foes in battle. - A supremely powerful graphical engine – brings the world of your fantasies to life
like never before. - Ryo Kunihiko – one of the world’s leading composers of movie and television
soundtracks, is creating incredible music that seamlessly interweaves with
on-screen action, setting the perfect atmosphere for your adventures in
the world of Aion.
Hardware Requirements
- Connectivity : Broadband Internet connection
- DirectX : 9.0c
- Hard Drive Space : 15GB hard disk space
- Operating System : Microsoft® Windows® XP SP2
- Processor : 2.8GHz CPU or equivalent
- RAM : 1GB RAM
- Video Card : NVIDIA® 5900 Ultra with 128MB RAM / ATI Radeon™ x700 with 128MB RAM or higher
Recommended System Requirements - Connectivity : Broadband Internet connection
- DirectX : 9.0c
- Hard Drive Space : 15GB hard disk space
- Operating System : Microsoft® Windows® XP SP2/ Vista
- Processor : Dual Core CPU 2.0GHz or equivalent
- RAM : 2GB RAM
- Video Card : NVIDIA® 6800 with 256MB RAM / ATI Radeon™ x800 with 256MB or higher
Resident Evil 5
Description
From the ashes of old conflicts, a new terror arises. The Umbrella Corporation and its crop of lethal viruses have been destroyed and contained. But a new, more dangerous threat has emerged. Years after surviving the events in Raccoon City, Chris Redfield has been fighting the scourge of bio-organic weapons all over the world. Now a member of the Bio-terrorism Security Assessment Alliance (BSSA), Chris is sent to Africa to investigate a biological agent that is transforming the populace into aggressive and disturbing creatures. Joined by another local BSSA agent, Sheva Alomar, the two must work together to solve the truth behind the disturbing turn of events. Featuring a revolutionary new co-op mode of gameplay, Resident Evil 5 will let players experience fear together as terror moves out of the shadows and into the light of day. Co-producer and series veterans Jun Takeuchi (Lost Planet) and Masachika Kawata (Resident Evil 4 Wii Edition, Resident Evil: Umbrella Chronicles) unleash an unprecedented level of fear for the new generation in Resident Evil 5, the sequel to one of the highest-rated videogames in history according to Metacritic.com and Gamerankings.com. Promising to revolutionize the series by delivering an unbelievable level of detail, realism and control, Resident Evil 5 is certain to bring new fans to the series. Incredible changes to both the gameplay and world of Resident Evil make this a must-have game for gamers across the globe.
Hardware Requirements
Windows XP Required
Windows Vista Recommended
CPU Minimum Requirement Intel PentiumD Processor
AMD Athlon64 X2
Recommended Intel Core2Quad Processor or better
AMD Phenom X4 or better
RAM Minimum Requirement Windows Vista (1GB)
Windows XP (512MB)
Recommended Windows Vista (2GB or more)
Windows XP (1GB or more)
HDD 8.0GB or more
Monitor Minimum Requirement 800?600
Recommended 1280?720 or larger
Disc Drive DVD9 compatible drive
Graphics Card Minimum Requirement VRAM (256MB)
DirectX9.0c/Shader 3.0
NVIDIA GeForce 6800 series
ATI Radeon HD 2400 Pro
Recommended VRAM (512 or more)
NVIDIA GeForce 9800 series or better
ATI Radeon HD 4800 series or better
Sound Card DirectSound Compatible (DirectX9.0c or higher)
Interface Mouse & Keyboard Required
Gamepad Recommended: Xbox360 Controller for Windows
Internet Broadband Connection Recommended: For online modes
Gamplay Video:
Tom Clancy's HAWX
For anyone who was at E3 back in July, you should have had the chance to check out Tom Clancy's H.A.W.X., a new comabt flight simulator franchise for Xbox 360, PS3 and PC from Ubisoft. The demo at E3 was impressive, showcasing the use of satellite imagery to recreate RIo De Janiero. Although UbiSoft were telling folks they were partnering with GeoEye, a premier provider of satellite, aerial and geospatial information and high-resolution images from its commercial Earth-imaging IKONOS satellite, they made it official today.
"High-resolution satellite imaging is moving from the black world of intelligence to the white world of commerce and Tom Clancy's H.A.W.X. will bring that reality to gamers,” said Mark Brender, vice president, corporate communications and marketing at GeoEye. "With video game graphics becoming more realistic, the use of high-quality photographic ground textures in H.A.W.X adds true photo-realism to the air combat experience.”
"We are extremely grateful to GeoEye for their collaboration with Ubisoft and pleased with the level of quality and service we've received,” said Travis Getz, authenticity coordinator for the H.A.W.X development team. "GeoEye's amazing imagery, combined with the intense aerial combat experience in H.A.W.X, makes this a perfect partnership for everyone--especially gamers.”
Below are some images of the IKONS satellite, the Middle East, Rio De Janiero, Cape Caneveral, and screenshots from the video game.
Batman: Arkham Asylum (PC)
- Genre
Action - Release Date
09/15/2009 - Publisher
Eidos - Developer
RockSteady Studios
This completely original title explores Gotham City's darkest location, the infamous Arkham Asylum. But as a routine prison transfer goes wrong, the Joker sets his demented plan into action and Batman comes face to face with an army of his worst enemies. In a dark and gritty setting reminiscent of Bioshock (with a story co-written by Paul Dini), Arkham Asylum is setting the stage for a true-to-character Batman game.
Batman: Arkham Asylum Downloads
Dirt 2
Colin McRae: DiRT 2's garage will house a best-in-class collection of officially licensed rally cars and off-road vehicles, specifically selected to deliver aggressive and fast paced racing. Covering seven vehicle classes, players will be given the keys to powerful vehicles right from the off. In Colin McRae: DiRT 2 the opening drive is the Group N Subaru; essentially making the ultimate car from the original game the starting point in the sequel and the rides just get even more impressive.
DiRT 2 Downloads (17)
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