Lawsuit: Aliens Colonial Marines "False Advertisement"

It's all just a demo...

    It seems to be official, Sega and Gearbox are in legal trouble due to the demo's highly misleading advertising fiasco.  A class action suit, to be specific.  When I hear about this I laugh.  In my head I hear Bruce from Family Guy saying, "No Wa-a-a-a--a-y!"  Really, it was only a matter of time that this would happen.
     I was one of the many that preordered and got burned by a horrendous game.  It wouldn't be so bad if they patched and fixed it for those of us that stuck it out.  Something to show that Gearbox and Sega are working to repair the damage done to all of their faithful consumers.

  "We think the video game industry is no different than any other that deals with consumers: if companies like Sega and Gearbox promise their customers one thing but deliver something else, then they should be held accountable for that decision."

-Ben Thomassen (Edelson LLC)

     I fully understand the fact that there may be discrepancies between early forms of the game and the later changes that occur just before we actually receive the product, but this particular case is undeniably wrong.  Does anyone else remember the early Borderlands game VGA trailer? (Check it out here if you can't recall- http://youtu.be/WSvTqfmv3DE)  They definitely made some massive changes to the ENTIRE visual style.  BUT!  As previews kept coming, they REFLECTED those changes.  Aliens: Col. Marines did not.  They continually advertised the enhanced graphics and gameplay.
     I am curious to see how this plays out.  There is a part of me that hopes they are held accountable for such deceptions, but then again-  I sincerely hope the gaming industry isn't opening the door to petty and frivolous legal actions to come.  What kinds of marketing issues are we to look forward to now?

     Here's my previous Aliens: Col. Marines post with a better picture: A disclaimer- SUCKERS!

Source: Polygon

Lego Marvel Super Heroes: Preorder Bonuses and Teaser Trailer

     *POTENTIAL SPOILER ALERT*
     There's a nice character tease in the trailer over at Game Informer.  Lego Galactus is casting a large shadow as the devourer of brick-worlds on a handful of the Marvel Heroes.  Perhaps it's teasing us with the final boss?
     I hope we get some heroes from places off planet- Silver Surfer, Nova, etc.  Maybe it'll have a galactic sized bonus level.

     The preorder bonuses have been provided by Warner:
Wal-mart = Exclusive Iron Patriot Mini figure
Gamestop = Spider-man keychain
(in addition) Power Up Rewards members = a DLC pack for Xbox 360 & PS3 versions
Amazon = A $10 credit.

     I haven't read anything about bonuses for the Wii U, 3DS, or Vita versions.

Michael Bay's Ninja Turtles: Good News- They're Not ALIENS!

     Well, here's a small bit of "good" news about Michael Bay's destruction of our childhood memories-

     Bay from MovieFone interview:

There was that quote saying that we’re making [the Ninja Turtles as] aliens. We’re not. It’s the ooze! It’s from the original source material. These are from the original writers, and I never went out to correct myself in the press. I do listen to the fans and I do want this to be authentic. I think they’re going to be really happy with this movie. When I see the digital stuff, the turtles look great.

     So, while they are NOT aliens now (again?), did he not say this on EW.com?:

“When you see this movie, kids are going to believe one day these turtles actually do exist when we are done with this movie,” said Bay as he took the stage to discuss his new vision for the reptilian reboot. “These turtles are from an alien race, and they are going to be tough, edgy, funny and completely loveable.”

     Changing them back into mutant turtles instead of aliens is one small glimmer of hope for this potentially massive train wreck.  Still only ONE glimmer though, after the logo reveal at Las Vegas Cinema Con where Paramount reverted the reboot's title from Ninja Turtles, back to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, I consider this statement as an extension of that fix.

Star Command Launch Trailer

     FINALLY releases this Friday! ...sort of. Star Command releases on iOS on May 2, and about a month later for Android. I am super excited for this game and it is soooooo close to release.

Cosmo Produces Worst Advice Ever

     Being a male, I typically don't read Cosmopolitan magazine, but a friend on Facebook pointed this article out: http://www.cosmopolitan.com/sex-love/relationship-advice/i-cheated-now-what#slide-1 it's titled "You Cheated on Him. Now What?" by Jennifer Benjamin.

     Uhhh... I've always heard that the advice on dating and sex in this publication was pretty bad, but this is downright stupid.  The very first piece of advice is to lie.  Well, at least omitting the truth.  Not just once, but multiple times.  Don't tell anyone, because lies will fix everything.  Absolutely ridiculous.

     My favorite part is where she quotes psychologist Marcella Bakur Weiner, PhD, author of Cheaters.

Even if you've covered your tracks, your man could discover your indiscretion. Assuming you still want to be with him, your best bet is to say how sorry you are, swear it'll never happen again, and beg for his forgiveness. Now is not the time to get into the reasons why you did it. "Wait a couple weeks before airing your grievances," says Weiner. "He needs time to process the betrayal without being confronted with the mistakes he's made."

     So you have to be honest with yourself, but not with the man, because it's his fault you cheated.

 Seriously, what is wrong with people?  Maybe the cheater should take responsibility for their own actions and NOT push blame, make excuses, and then try to cover it up.
     If this was an article in, say Maxim Magazine, saying it was all right for men to cheat there would be a massive shit storm.  I am quite disgusted with the awful advice this article has given. 

     On the plus side there are plenty of females AND males tearing the article apart.  For that I thank all of you honest ladies (and gentlemen) out there. 

Batman: Arkham Origins: No Kevin Conroy?

     Here's another voice change on top of the Metal Gear David Hayter news from a little while ago.  Most everyone equates Kevin Conroy's voice with THE BATMAN.  He's been heard as the voice in everything from the 90's animated series through the more recent Batman video games, such as the Arkham City and Arkham Asylum as well as the new Injustice: Gods Among Us.  There are even times during Christopher Nolan's Dark Knight series that I'm fairly certain my mind turned Christian Bale's voice into Conroy's, because that's how Batman should sound.
     But apparently WB Montreal would like a younger actor for the younger portrayal of Batman.  This seems an odd decision because Conroy is a voice actor, he can CHANGE his voice to fit the younger Batman.  Same voice with less grit and rasp.

     So I'm wondering if he isn't reprising his role here for other reasons.  Maybe other work?  In other posts I've mentioned the fact that I believe Rocksteady to be working on a sequel to Arkham City for the next gen consoles.  By letting WB Montreal work on Origins and Armature making Origins Blackgate, that leaves Rocksteady free to do something else.  And what better than taking the next step in the Arkham series on consoles that offer wonderful new possibilities in gameplay? 

Source: May issue of NAG Magazine:
http://www.nag.co.za/2013/04/23/nag-magazine-may-2013-issue/

New Beyond: Two Souls Trailer (Tribeca Film Fest.)

     The official new trailer for Playstation's Beyond: Two Souls debuted live at the Tribeca Film Festival- and let me tell you, this game is looking better and better.  With this new trailer we get some back story on Jodie Holmes (Ellen Page) and her psychological journey.  It appears to be sort of inspired by Stephen King's Firestarter. 

     Here's a quote from the PS youtube site about the game:

Born with a connection to a mysterious entity with incredible powers, Jodie was different. In an adventure spanning 15 years of her life, your actions will determine Jodie's fate as she faces extraordinary challenges, danger, and heartwrenching loss on a journey to discover the truth of who she is. Beyond promises an emotionally-charged journey unlike any video game before.

Scribblenauts and the DC Comics Universe

Mr. Scribble-Freeze

     Apparently 5th Cell's next Scribblenauts game will be getting some alterations and focus on the license with DC comics.  Previously called Scribblenauts Unmasked, it may yet get a new title.

 

     From what I've read over at IGN, the game sounds like the series protagonist and his magic notebook will be assisting the DC heroes in various puzzle quests.  Not much to go on, but since I enjoyed the previous installments, and this one has my favorite Batman villain Mr. Freeze, I may be buying this one.

     Here's a quick snippet from the IGN article:

"One source describes a linear level beginning in the sewers beneath Wayne Manor where a hungry Killer Croc won’t let Max proceed. When a hamburger isn’t enough, a dynamite sandwich sends Croc into a rage leading to his arrest. Robin keeps the situation under control, allowing Max to make his way inside Wayne Manor (where Batman has been manipulated by The Joker) before discovering Batgirl’s capture in the Batcave.

In another situation, Max encounters two police officers, and must decipher which one is legit and which is actually Clayface. An X-ray exposes the villain, and when handcuffs fail to stop the sludge-monster, a freeze-gun does the trick."

    
     My previous Scribblenauts posts (From 2009):
http://www.joshuabarsody.com/search?q=scribblenauts

Metal Gear Rising: Blade Wolf DLC

     You know, even after reading the ridiculous name "Revengeance," AND seeing the even more absurd trailers for the game, I went out and preordered it.  Then I played through it.  It got old quick, with only the sword mechanic keeping me interested at all.  Seriously, the last boss fight was 80% too long, while the rest of the game was 75% too short.  I'm not sure how the math adds up, but it was pretty forgettable. 

     MG Rising was fun for the first few levels, and got boring really fast. Where's the stealth?  Kojima should've stuck with Frank "Gray Fox" Jaeger.  Keep it a tight stealth ninja slaughterfest.  How sweet would it have been if you got the badass cyborg cloaking device and could actually sneak up and shred enemies? 

     I ended up sticking with the Fox blade and suit once they were available in the game.  The Fox blade, once upgraded, pretty much cut through anything, and made playing a lot more enjoyable.  That is the most redeeming quality of the game.  Running around cutting things into hundreds of tiny pieces.

     Then after seeing the first DLC/Add-on was given to Jetstream Sam, I had slightly renewed hopes.  He was, in my opinion, one of the best characters in the game.  Sam was genuinely likeable, with a story that was pretty decent.  After checking out a friends copy...  meh.  Still disinterested. 

     Now they are releasing DLC with Blade Wolf in the lead in May for $9.99.  He's the second character I actually enjoyed.  Once again it looks to be a bunch of recycled in game materials in a slew of highly repetitive levels.  It may have the advantage of his playstyle- he doesn't use a sword.  He has the tail and a bunch of other attachments. 
     Can't say how the story will play out, but one may assume it'll be flashbacks to before the encounter with Raiden, filling in a story he's telling now.  That's at least how the screenshots appear so far.
     Well, I will at least give it a try.

Metal Gear Legacy Site: Snakes in a Game!

    It appears as if the Japanese site for the Metal Gear Legacy Collection has been opened- http://www.konami.jp/mgs_tlc/ - and it looks good. 

 

     There's a big timeline of the series, and tons of info I cannot read.  (Update: A page translation worked pretty well, I used Bing and it did a decent job)  This site is great even if it's just for seeing how the MG series has evolved over the years.

 

     Makes me want to dust off my old NES and Metal Gear cartridge...

X-Men Days of Future Past: Bishop and Warpath

     Bryan Singer has been constantly on the social networks giving out information left and right.  He posted a Vine video showing off a bunch of chairs for the actors/characters- displaying seats for Bishop, Blink, and Warpath.  (I believe I'd seen the Blink news elsewhere in previous  news)

 

     I've seen plenty of rumors hinting at Omar Sy as Bishop and Booboo Stewart as Warpath.  We'll have to wait for official confirmation.  Hate to bring in the skepticism this early, but both Bishop and Warpath are HUGE guys.  Guys you wouldn't want to f*ck around with because they could crush you with a punch, and these 2 aren't what you'd call beefed up.  I would figure Michael Jai White or rapper Common would work for Bishop, and even though he's not Native American, Jason Momoa as Warpath.

     It looks like Bryan Singer is pulling a Brett Ratner for the upcoming film.  Seriously, it's like he's squeezing in every single damn character that's even been considered for a part in the comics.  It feels a bit out of hand.  The number is becoming quite staggering.  With the more recent additions it makes me wonder if Trevor Fitzroy, Ahab, Rachel Summers, or Cable will show up.  Rachel Summers might be tough because Cyclops and Jean Grey are both gone.  Cable could work if they used the Ultimate Marvel Universe version (an older healing power gone Wolverine).  Even if he shows up I would totally cast Stephen Lang.  He's got the look and attitude of an old soldier.  Either way  As soon as Unus the Untouchable and Maggot are cast, that's when I'll refuse to see this.

     PS: Has he decided to resurrect Cyclops, bring back Gambit, and open Deadpool's mouth yet?  Only time will tell.

     PPS: I wonder if Peter Dinklage is playing the Apocalypse from the Books of Askani'son.  The En Sabah Nur of Earth 4935.  Here's a pic from the comic to give you an idea why I would think this.

Metal Gear Legacy Collection

     Being a huge Metal Gear fan, I am slightly disturbed by the news that this June we'll be able to buy a new collection of previous Metal Gears called The Legacy Collection.  What makes me slightly angry is the fact I've already repurchased many of these titles, including the most recent HD collection.

     Konami has finally let on that we will finally be able to get the original Metal Gear Solid. (Although I note that it is already available on the Playstation Network, at least it was a week ago)

     From what I've read these are what will be included in this compilation:
1) Metal Gear Solid*
2) Metal Gear Solid 2: HD Edition
3) Metal Gear Solid 3: HD Edition (incl. original MSX versions of Metal Gear + Metal Gear 2)
4) Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker HD Edition
5) Metal Gear Solid: VR Missions*
5) Metal Gear Solid 4 (Trophy Edition)*
6) 2 Digital Ashley Wood Digital Graphic Novels*
(*not featured in the MGS HD Collection)

     I see there is no mention yet of Metal Gear Portable Ops or Metal Gear Acid from the PSP.  Twin Snakes will not be included either, as it was a Nintendo Exclusive.

     In another post I'll talk about the Metal Gear Solid game itself- as it's the only game in here I would want, and is currently available on PSN.  In an older post I mentioned that MGS needs an HD update- http://www.joshuabarsody.com/2012/08/metal-gear-25th-anniversary.html -and it really could use that overhaul.  Where's all the fans helping with the updates?    

TMNT: Out of the Shadows: Michelangelo

     The first Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle getting shown off in the upcoming Out of the Shadows game is my favorite- Michelangelo.  Despite the odd look to the turtles, I am enjoying what I've seen.  So far it looks to be a graphically-enhanced, old school classic ninja turtles beat-em-up, and really, that's all we need when it comes to the TMNT. 

Here's the vignette: http://youtu.be/UudJxPslDl0

Michael Bay's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Name Change

     We've gotten some... less terrible news concerning Michael Bay's butchering of our childhood- Paramount has officially reverted the reboot's title from Ninja Turtles, back to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.  (As reported/seen at the Las Vegas Cinema Con- see link below)  Even after the delays and production troubles, my fears for this remain high.  The cast, including Megan Fox, does nothing to remedy those fears, and to top it off, the script was rewritten by Evan Daugherty.  You know, that guy that did such an "amazing" job with Snow White and the Huntsman...  Oh, Gawd's Cloudy Ballsack- this is bad.  It's much worse than I originally thought.
     The link to the TMNT Lair article: http://t.co/Ys8rOnJJo5

Thor: The Dark World Trailer Notes

     The trailer has finally arrived, and it looks good. (Link: http://youtu.be/7p7rocHEecE)  Not as good as the first film yet, but good.  Some of the scenes look too empty, large open battles, but not a lot happening.  Of course the fate of the world is now in jeopardy because the "Darkness" before the universe has only been sleeping or something, has now returned.  But it feels like not much is going despite the world's problem. 

    Thor shows up and wisks Jane Foster away.  Sif looks pissed, Odin is contemplating, and a bad guy with an angry disposition has Jane as a hostage.  We could use more Sif.  (I've been reading the recent Journey Into Mystery series with her as lead, and it's great.  Go buy them, they are worth it.)

     Maybe miss Foster will kick him in his dark-nads as she was a capable person in the first movie. 
     Lastly, the moment many were waiting for- and I for one cheered at Loki's return.  YAY!  More Loki!

"When do we start?"

    

Earthbound (Mother 2 in Japan) For Wii U and Free Fan Translation

     It isn't enough for me to buy a Wii U, but the re-release of Earthbound is wonderful news.  I played the crap out of this game back on the SNES and would love to see it again on the markets.  As much as I'm pissed with Nintendo's recent business model- take old game, make it look like Wii people (repackage), and profit- I applaud this particular game being resold.
     This game was a milestone in my gaming history, I hold it next to Chrono Trigger in childhood gaming influences as something I will likely NEVER forget.  Earthbound was a massive part of my formative gaming years. 

     In addition to Earthbound being offered again, a fan wrote to Nintendo offering his translations free to get Mother 3 over here.  That would be quite a feat to see.

http://mother3.fobby.net/blog/2013/04/20/offer-to-nintendo/

Mother 3 translation screencap.



Eli Roth's Hemlock Grove...r.

     I absolutely could not resist making this.  Hemlock Grover.  Can Eli Roth compete with this level of sheer terror?  I don't think so.

     Anyway, I finally got to see the first episode of Hemlock Grove, and it is pretty good.  Pretty DAMN good.  It's been quite a long time since I've seen a werewolf show that wasn't completely idiotic.  Thank you Mr. Roth for making a good werewolf horror.  This is how they should be handled.  Raw, savage, and brutal.  Only one episode in and you've got me hooked.  I'll be sneaking in episodes whenever I can get the time.
    

Charlie the Cockatiel Plays the PS Vita: Lego Batman 2: DC Superheroes

     Just throwing up a quick post.  It's a video that my lady took of Charlie the Cockatiel helping me Platinum Trophy in Lego Batman 2: DC Superheroes for the Playstation Vita. 



     He kept tapping the screen and throwing off my Batarangs, but birds are only so good at video games.

The Lone Ranger: The "Final" Theatrical Trailer

     We are getting a ton of summer movie news recently- the final Lone Ranger trailer was released by Disney today.  Although we'll probably get 100 TV spots when they over market it in June.  The Lone Ranger appears to be a very train heavy Pirates of the Old West featuring Native American Jack Sparrow.  But I suppose that is to be expected when it is made by the same writer, director, and producers of the first Pirates of the Caribbean.

Niii-iiiiiiiiiiice.

     In all seriousness, I do enjoy the Pirates movies, despite how ludicrous they got.  They hold up as just simply fun adventures.  And I will admit, I want to see this, as it looks like tons of fun.

     It arrives in theaters July 3, and stars Armie Hammer as The Lone Ranger, Johnny Depp as Tonto, and, because you can't really have Depp in a movie without Helena Bonham-Carter any more, she's in it as well.

 

Here's a link to the Yahoo! movies blog with the exclusive trailer:

http://movies.yahoo.com/blogs/movie-talk/lone-ranger-exclusive-trailer-why-does-silver-bullets-194331607.html

R.I.P.D. Trailer

      R.I.P.D. (The Rest in Peace Department), a movie based on the Dark Horse comic, is looking quite good.  It has a very Men in Black feel to it.  Jeff Bridges is playing another strange sounding old-west man with a gun and working with recently deceased Ryan Reynolds as undead lawmen. 

 I foresee a much hilarity.

    The movie releases July 19th, here's the official trailer:  http://youtu.be/X07xNrVd7DU

A New Star Wars EVERY Summer?

     I just read something I was already worried about.  The combined Force of Disney and LucasFilm have officially announced at the Cinema Con in Las Vegas earlier today that beginning in 2015, we will be getting a new movie each summer.  It will start with Episode VII and alternating with stand alone films.

     This is a horrible idea.  We are going to be so oversaturated with Star Wars.  I love the universe George Lucas created, but too much generally ends up being a bad thing. 
     Why not reinstate LucasArts and make an episodic game universe?  Or a TV show with a budget to make it not only feasible, but amazing.  Think of a Game of Thrones like series set in the Old Republic? 
     I wouldn't mind a Star Wars: Underworld show. More mature and darker in content than the typical fair. How many bazillions of fans are looking for something more gritty? I would guess quite a few. We've grown up as fans, when will the movies?

     While there is immense potential with the extensive Star Wars Universe, they need to take it a bit slower. Stop the rush to make the money they spent buying LucasFilm back and make movies that last.

     PS- A Tag & Bink would be a wonderful animated movie/series. 

Jaime Foxx as Electro pic. (From The Amazing Spider-Man 2)

     We finally get to see the highly talented Mr. Foxx as the villain Electro!  As I guessed way back when this version of Maxwell Dillon is more akin to his Ultimate Spider-Man character, particularly in the Ultimate Six pages drawn by Joe Quesada.  Very nice.  I love the creepy glow and crazy veiny lighning scarring patterns.
    
     (I cropped down a pic from: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2309758/Jamie-Foxx-pictured-Amazing-Spider-Man-villain-time--complete-creepy-make-up.html -they have a bunch of pictures, check them out)

Man of Steel: General Zod: "You are not alone" Viral Video

     This morning we got an interesting new viral video for the Man of Steel movie.  General Zod is asking for his citizen, Kal-El, to be given into his custody.  If he doesn't come forth, Earth will come under attack.

You are not alone

Kryptonian TV reception is poor.

     Damn, this is quite a nice touch- both telling humanity they are not alone, and that they are the lesser power in one small statement.  Well done.  I also like how grainy and fuzzy the footage is, adds a bit of creep factor to it.

     Facebook video link-  https://www.facebook.com/manofsteel#!/manofsteel

Star Command: Soon.

     It's been quite a long time since I first read about a kickstarter for a game called Star Command.  While I am not much of a computer or phone gamer, I am definitely going to be getting this one for sure.  With a Star Trek spoof universe look and the amazing T-shirt design (see below) they've guaranteed my support. 

     With the release date coming soon and every new video and review, it makes me crazy to know I'll be waiting even longer to play it, as Android phones will be getting it about a month after iOS.
     Oh well, it looks like it'll be worth the wait.

Best. Shirt. Ever.

     Check it out at:  http://www.starcommandgame.com

Dark Souls 2: New Despair Trailer Released

     Lucky us, we got a 12 minute footage of the game with a sort of interview yesterday, and today a new trailer today.  Not much extra in the trailer from all the juicy bits yesterday, but excellent none the less.

     Since they made a big deal out of "time" being important, I am wondering if this game takes place either in the past, or with a person that may warp time.  Some people have mentioned the similarity between the Painted World of Ariamis of Dark Souls and the land across the bridge in this one.  There are some things that look the same.  Not exactly proof, but it does make me think, and given that a great amount of time may have been placed between the games it is quite plausible.  It also bears mentioning that the painting was a portal.  Was it created to contain a fragmentary piece of the "real" world?  I mean, maybe someone was embarrassed of Priscilla the Half-Breed, and wanted her locked away. 
     As for the character- could this protagonist be Lord Gwyn from before the dragons were slain?  From an earlier era- before he gained all his power, became the Lord of Cinder, defeated the Everlasting Dragons, and came to be where he was in Dark Souls.  Watching the young Gwyn become the king and Lord Soul.  His is an interesting path through the world of Dark Souls. 
     Or possibly, on a long shot guess, could this be his nameless firstborn son, stripped of deity status? (If Solaire of Astora isn't/wasn't that son- I personally believe there was evidence to argue that he could be)  I am very curious as to what happened to him.  Why was he stripped of his status?  Where did they go?  There is plenty of room for the character.
     If it is the lost son, he could be on a quest for redemption.  A quest for vengeance could be just as entertaining though.  If I had my Deity status torn away, I'd probably be a very pissed off and bitter person.  Longing to reaquire what was taken, the great powers and abilities of my birthright.  

     Regardless, I will actually looking forward to dying in many stressful ways.  A massive amount of nerve wracking, nail biting frustration is in my future.

     PS- With the head creator as only a supervisor, it makes me wonder if he's got another team secretly making something for the next gen PS4.  That's what I believe Rocksteady is doing with the Batman: Arkham series.  It makes sense, farm out the current gen games and focus on upping the ante for the next gen. 

Flashback: Ubisoft's HD REMAKE!!!

     Over at IGN I just read something that makes me pee-pants excited- An HD remeake of the old Flashback game.  I played this so much on SNES, and in fact my brother and I were replaying it 2 weeks ago just for kicks. Ah, the wonderful feel of gaming nostalgia! (we also got some Zombies Ate My Neighbors in as well)

Screencap From IGN

     Anyways, here's a snippet from the IGN article:

"Ubisoft has announced that a HD remake of classic action adventure game Flashback will be available on PSN and XBLA later this year.

To celebrate the title's 20th anniversary, the original creator of the game has re-rendered it in 3D using the Unreal engine, though you'll still be playing in 2D. New voice acting has also been provided."
 

     Here's a screencap from the old SNES version for those that haven't seen it, or don't remember what it looked like.  They've done an amazing job on updating this.  This is a great sci-fi action adventure game, and definitely warrants looking into, even if you are playing the old version.

SNES Screencap

      Now to play the waiting game and see if Blizzard's Blackthorne gets the HD treatment as well...

Niell Blomkamp's Elysium Trailer

     I have been waiting for this for so long.  Mr. Blomkamp does not disappoint.  Everything about his previous film, District 9, is made even better for his new movie.  It is looking damn spectacular sir.

Sharlto Copley looking bad ass.

     Anyone else wonder if this takes place in the same "universe" as District 9?  A plausible thought, as they could've used post alien ship technology to create the haven for the rich. 

     Of all the summer films coming out this year, this is on the top of my must see list.  

Batman: Arkham Origins NEWS!!!

     Game Informer has released a wonderful new article about the next Batman: Arkham game.  It is Batman: Arkham Origins and it will be released Oct 25, 2013 on Wii U, PS3, Xbox 360, and PC.  

     Warner Bros. Games Montreal is now making this game instead of Rocksteady Studios, but they have full access to Rocksteady's materials.  That makes me wonder if Rocksteady is creating the Arkham City sequel for the next gen consoles in the mean time.

Pic cropped and taken from Game Informer

       Apparently, this game will be about an early take on Batman fighting a slew of assassins that have come to Gotham City over Christmas.

     In addition we'll be getting a separate handheld Arkham game for DS and PS Vita- Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate- taking place after the Origins console version.  The portable version will be made by Armature Studios (Metroid Prime creators)  Quite interesting.

Star Trek Into Darkness: International Poster

     Well here is the international poster featuring Benedict Cumberbatch in a very Khan like coat. (Note: I did crop the pic a little bit)  If he actually ends up being Khan I may be little pissed.  I figure, it would be more rehashing of the same old thing.  Try something new.
     How annoying would it be if everyone guessed who he was and all the creators maintained he wasn't for the last whole year?  It would be a huge let down.  I want to be wowed in NEW ways.

     Then again, I have yet to be disappointed by J.J. Abrams.  Although Lindelof has been a thorn in my side for a while.  He gets too much hype for essentially stuffing "mystery" where it doesn't need to be.  So I hope Abrams evened out Lindelof's absurd and generally nonsensical script.

     I foresee Karl Urban being the awesomest awesome that ever awesomed as Dr. "Bones" McCoy in this new film.  And despite my hangups on Khan being potentially the villain again, I will probably love the film anyway.

The Last of Us: Extended Red Band Trailer... and a demo rant.

     The Last of Us red band trailer is out (Official link:  http://youtu.be/p4pYIsaZqE0 ) and it shows off a bit more of the game.  In addition it gives us some glimpses of more survivors and the turmoil in the lives of the characters.  There's plenty of violent struggle and fighting for survival.  Loads of lonely atmosphere as well.

     Naughty Dog and Santa Monica Studio is doing quite well with these sneak peeks.

     Even though I'm still pissed about the lack of the promised Demo on the God of War: Ascension preorder (see below), I'll still be buying this.  It looks like they've taken the Uncharted game and added survival and horror elements into a beautifully rendered world.   

   

     See that picture to the left?  That was the sticker on the cover of God of War: Ascension.  It is blatant misinformation to sell copies of a redundant game.  I am quite disgusted with the way this was handled. Purposeful misleading with the intention of boosting sales on GoW: Ass-scent-shun.  Don't tout that consumers will get the demo, or "early access" if it won't be available for months.  Sure there is a small print asterisk, but come on.  It's pretty much false advertising.

     We were essentially lied to about this, you can't advertise a preorder demo bonus if instead of getting "access to DEMO" we receive "access to a countdown (to a demo) for a demo that comes out a mere 2 weeks after the 'early access' is obtained."  Absolute garbage. Is the demo really going to be worth playing 2 weeks before the actual game.  Not really.

     Just because the game was pushed back, doesn't mean the demo needed to be. That's the reason we have playable demos. As long as they don't repeat the Aliens: Colonial Marines demo mistakes, the game will sell even if the demo is sub par.

Jurassic Park 3D: Yoshi

     In celebration of the Jurassic Park 3D movie, I'm posting my favorite Jurassic Park related spoof from the Dorkly Bits crew.  Mario, Luigi, and a veloci-Yoshi re-enact the opening scene from the movie.

Shane Carruth's Upstream Color- Too Far From Home

     I have been looking forward to seeing this movie since it was announced, and it appears I'll be waiting quite a bit longer.  While I knew Upstream Color was going to be a limited release, this is absolutely ridiculous:

A little too far to drive.

     It seems the nearest theater to me, that is showing it, is only 1070 miles away.  That is a little farther than expected.  Whyyyyyyy?!?  ...can't it be playing here!?!

     Mr. Carruth's Primer stands as, in my opinion, one of the finest movies ever made.  It easily holds a top 10 spot on my personal list.  Primer has a strange and simple beauty.  Every scene, every shot has a weight to it.  The lengths he went to craft the film should be heeded by the large film producers.  Stop pumping out fast and easy eye-candy crap.  There's plenty of market for movies that have meaning and importance.  The fact it is about time travel (a favorite topic of mine) is just the cherry on top. 
     As of now, I can only guess that after a decade he has made a film many will hold dear.
     When it is close enough to see I will be dragging as many people with me as possible.  I only fear that I may have to wait for the DVD release to see it.  Whenever it does make it out around here- I have no doubt this movie will be talked about for a long while after, and hope to join those conversations as soon as possible. 

Jurassic Park in 3D- Now with an extra "D"

     I had been toying around with the caption for this for some time now- since the re-release in 3D was announced.  As things went, I stuck with this one because it sounded the best in my head.  Others were like- "Looking for the 3rd 'D'"?, "This 'D' is within reach.", and "With those glasses, my 'D' looks so real."

Whoa.

     None of them seemed to sound quite right.  Even the ones about the protective 3D glasses felt off.  Anyways, I'll probably go see this movie to experience it in the 3rd Dimension, as I love the movie and now I have a good reason to view it again on the big screen.
     "I've got the 'D' you're looking for."
     "Prepare yourself for the extra 'D'."
     "Red & Blue glasses won't do this 'D' justice."
     "This 'D'
     ...and so on.

Jurassic Park in 3D and the Sega Games

     With the re-release of Jurassic Park (now in 3D!) I have made some Jurassic Park meme's but I forgot my jump drive at home- so they will have to wait until at least 6pm tonight to be posted. 
     So in the mean time, I'll be putting up some Jurassic Park memories such as the old video games and a small bit about my experience seeing the film for the first time.


Best game of "fetch" EVER!!!

      The Movie:  When the movie was first released in theaters, I was visiting family in Georgia and was in down town Atlanta.  Since I had no idea about the weather there, I got caught out in the rain.  In a mere 5 minutes the rain down poured in the streets until it was past my ankles.  Then it just stopped.  Quite odd- for someone from the north.  A massive amount of rain, then back to full sunshine in a matter of 10 minutes. 

     It was so horribly humid out, so we went to seek refuge in the heavily air conditioned theater.  Being soaking wet and now freezing is how I recall the movie.  It was good enough to keep my mind off the disgusting feeling of soggy cold.

     The Game Sega:  Not long after the film, my siblings and I got the Sega Genesis version of Jurassic Park.  Personally I loved it.  Great soundtrack, wonderful graphics, and I could use a rocket launcher to explode a chicken sized Compsognathus.  Which I spent most of the game time doing. 

     I also loved stun grenading the Triceratops*.

     The Game Sega CD:  This first person point-and-click game was kind of terrible.  Enjoyable, but horrible.  The phone recording of a person being eaten on one of the desks was a nice addition to add atmosphere.

*STUN GRENADES!!!

Stock Market Advice From Josh's Brokers- The Gremlins.

     I have been dabbling in the stock markets for about 6 years now, and this is the best description of how I have been doing things.  Now, mind you, I haven't done spectacularly well or anything.  I've come out with more than I put in, but not by a significant amount.  So take this amateur's advice with a grain of salt.  A very large grain.

     Sorry about the poor quality, I couldn't get a better screen cap of it.  It's a simple quote from Gremlins 2- two gremlins shouting BUY! and SELL! repeatedly into the phones.  In all honesty, this is pretty much exactly how it is.
     Just a lot of random buying, selling, and yelling.

Arrested Development New Season May 26th.

     Really.  This pic is all I need to post.  This show is going to be amazing- let the excitement begin.

     At 21:01am on Sunday May 26th, we will be getting ALL 15 new episodes- available on Netflix.  I might be sick that day, and not be able to attend work.

Valiant Comics: Revival of the Fittest + Harbinger Wars

     About a year ago, I remember reading about the Valiant Comics Universe being revived.  Issues were on the way, and that peaked my interest.  I remember these characters from way back when, and was quite curious to see them again. 

     On a whim I picked up Archer & Armstrong, X-O Manowar, and the Harbinger first issues.  I can say I was very pleased.  They have since not let me down.  When Bloodshot finally hit, they had me for good.  While I enjoyed the others, Bloodshot was the grand slam to drive this company revival home.  My interest in comics had been wavering and the only monthly comic I retained any interest in was Robert Kirkman's Invincible.

     And now?  Easily half of my pull pile for the comic store is Valiant Universe comics.  Marvel and DC are losing me rapidly.  Age of Ultron crossover?  Meh.  Honestly I'm not liking it so far.  There is something missing from the series (I've bought and read the first 3 books), and I can't quite say what it is. 
     Valiant's upcoming Harbinger Wars, however, has me pee-pants excited.  I love what they've been doing, and I'll get to see a larger crossover than Ninjak's appearance in X-O Manowar.  Will Shadowman show up?  I don't know.  Quantum and Woody are returning, could they appear?  Maybe.  Good lord, Valiant Entertainment has got me hooked.   

     As for the Harbinger Wars story part I'm highly looking forwad to is the immortal soldier Bloodshot taking on super telekinetic/telepath Toyo Harada.  This is something I was hoping for in the tv show Heroes.  A regenerative powered person versus a mind of power.  The ultimate showdown in mind and body.  With the current group taking on story and art, I have no doubt it'll be great.
     Not to mention the fact about a dozen new characters will be introduced through the Project Rising Spirit during the Harbinger Wars.  I believe I've seen a bunch through the recent issues of Bloodshot.  I guess I'll have to see when I pick up the first HW issue this weekend.
***Update*** found this link to a Comic Book Resources article showing off some new Psiots in the series.  http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=44522

     Seriously, Valiant, thank you for bringing back my love of comics.  Keep up the incredible work.  You've brought back more than just characters and stories, you've brought back the optimism and enjoyment of a waining comic book fan.

Aliens: Colonial Marines: DISCLAIMER!

In space, no one can hear you complain.

     Here's a bit of an interesting item concerning the travesty known as Aliens: Colonial Marines.  It has been widely known that the game we were delivered had been NOTHING like what was advertised.  The demo and trailers showed things far exceeding the graphics and play that gamers received, despite the fact we were led to believe we'd receive after the hype.

     A redditor actually did something about it.  Reddit user Subpardave sent a complaint to the Advertising Standards Agency (UK)- http://redd.it/1bjtot 

     ...and he actually got a reply.  A very disappointing one, but something at least.  Sadly, that reply is only the fact that a disclaimer will be added to the footage stating things we now already know to be true:

  "They agreed to add a disclaimer, both on their website and in all relevant YouTube videos, which explains that the trailers depict footage of the demo versions of the game. The disclaimer will be visible when each online trailer is played."

     ...uuhhh...


     ... so after almost 2 months after the game released, Sega Europe will put a disclaimer on something we all already know to be EXTREMELY MISLEADING on their official videos.  Not all of Sega (or other developer names attached to the game), but one part of a company will be acknowledging this train wreck.
     Aren't demos usually parts of games that are currently in production, parts of a product we will be getting?  Disturbing that we can't get more out of this.

     One small step I suppose.

LucasArts No More.

Star Wars 1313

     LucasArts shut down by Disney.  Could this really be?  If the stories are true- this is a sad day.  Disney, a company that essentially owns a 6th of America, can afford to maintain a game company that produces repeatedly great games such as the old SNES Star Wars side scrollers, the Tales From Monkey Island series, and Grim Fandango on top of the newer Star Wars games(Unleashed).  I don't know if it's for real or not, but this sounds like it happened.

     Here's a snippet from Kotaku- 

“After evaluating our position in the games market, we’ve decided to shift LucasArts from an internal development to a licensing model, minimizing the company’s risk while achieving a broader portfolio of quality Star Wars games," LucasArts parent company LucasFilm said in a statement. "As a result of this change, we’ve had layoffs across the organization. We are incredibly appreciative and proud of the talented teams who have been developing our new titles.”

     After months of rumors beginning when Disney acquired LucasFilm add to that the stop on announcements from LucasArts, these things hinted towards this outcome- a complete shutdown.
     If the reports are factual, the odds of Star Wars: First Assault and the amazing Star Wars 1313 being finished through a license or through a publishing partner seem slim.  But this was posted over at Kotaku- 

"It is worth noting that we are looking for proven external partners who can help us provide video games to our fans. We still believe in the video game industry, we still will provide Star Wars games, we're just looking at different models rather than internal production... They're evaluating everything. There's always a possibility that it [Star Wars 1313] can still come out via licensing."

     I wouldn't completely rule this out, but am still somewhat depressed at this news.  Another good company dissolved.  Why not keep the franchise games going?  Star Wars 1313 looks like a huge winner- essentially Uncharted in the Star Wars universe.  Thanks, Disney. 

What a David Hayter-less Metal Gear Might Mean

     After hearing about the lack of David Hayter in Metal Gear V, I was a bit saddened.  In reality, how strange will it be to not hear Hayter playing the voice I hear in my head whenever I read about Snake?  It'll definitely take some getting used to.

     But, Mr. Hayter posted this today: http://www.twitlonger.com/show/n_1rjhhf9  and it got me thinking.

     This isn't our typical protagonist.  Perhaps a different clone of Big Boss.  He is referred to as "V."  "V has come to." Liquid Snake and Solidus Snake had different voices from Naked Snake and Solid Snake, so that could very well be a sign of change from our well known Snake(s).  This new Snake may not be a full clone either- lets say maybe some genetic tampering during the cloning process.  I don't know, there could be a billion reasons for looking like the pic above.   
     If this isn't a marketing stunt, it could just be pointing to the fact we're being introduced to 1, maybe 2 new Snakes -as one of the lines from the Metal Gear V: Ground Zeroes & The Phantom Pain full trailer is- From "FOX" Two Phantoms Were Born. 

     Was there other soldier cloning projects using Big Boss's DNA?  More than likely.  That would explain his slightly strange look as opposed to the previous Snakes we've seen. 
     But, what gets me is the fellow in the trailer that looks like Master Miller (Liquid Snake).  What then gets me a bit more is the fact that there has been a person spotted multiple times that resembles Psycho Mantis.  Could this be a Metal Gear that is chronologically before MGS?  Are the semi-familiar faces looking to find a suitable Snake clone for something?  

     It'll be odd at first, but I'll always hear Hayter's voice for Snake, and regardless of what happens, Kojima has never been one to fail to present an amazing game.  He knows what he's doing, and I'll rest soundly with that fact in mind.
     So I'll be looking forward to whatever divergence from the Legendary Snake happens in this upcoming installment.