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[Review] PixelJunk Shooter

Submitted by Ian Fisher on Wed, 12/16/2009 - 10:29
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Overall Feeling: 
PixelJunk Shooter may have a simple façade to it but don’t let that fool you. The game is more than a simple twin stick shooter and it’s filled with an amazing amount of depth which despite the short experience should keep you entertained. Like the other games in the PixelJunk series PJ Shooter has some amazing production values and it’s easily one of the best games on the PlayStation Network.
The Pros: 
The visuals are awesome despite their simplicity due to the colorful art direction. Flying through caves saving dudes, blasting creatures and finding secrets is very rewarding and entertaining. The lava/magma/water/gas interaction at times is just ingenious due to how it’s handled and how damn good it looks. You may not expect it but the story is awesome. Oh yeah, the boss battles are cool and the last stage will probably blow some minds.
The Cons: 
Even though the game doesn’t over stay its welcome it may be too short for some. Having more expansive caves or additional abilities would’ve been nice and given the game a bit more depth and replayability. At times the game doesn't do a good job at explaining certain abilities that well.
ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
9

One genre that burgeoned this generation is twin stick shooters.

[Review] James Cameron's Avatar: The Game

Submitted by Ian Fisher on Mon, 12/07/2009 - 18:34
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Overall Feeling: 
Despite the early hype James Cameron's Avatar: The Game isn't the game to break the curse of bad movie games. Instead the game is probably one of the most disappointing movie games I've played as it's lacking that epic scope that the film promises and when it comes to being a game it's extremely boring due to repetitive missions and a subpar story.
The Pros: 
The game is playable in the sense that it won't crash on you. Exploring Pandora may be a nice experience for some even though it isn't as detailed or big as the film. The design of the main menu and accompanying music is very nice. Some of the visuals can look quite nice but sadly that isn't the case with the majority of the game.
The Cons: 
Inconsistent graphics, boring missions, iffy controls, a story that fails to be captivating, unoriginal mission design and an uneven multiplayer mode. Basically Avatar: The Game fails in every aspect that makes a game fun.
ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
4

For some reason or another there are things that are just meant not to be in the world. Things like world peace, the Chicago Cubs winning the World Series and video game fanboys not arguing with each other are just a few things that probably will never happen, and if they do then I think we should all be scared.  Something else that is a long shot from ever happening is gamers getting a good game based on a film.  For a long time the movie game genre has been a complete joke as the games are simply shells of what they could be and are obvious cash-ins.

[Review] Assassin's Creed II

Submitted by Rob Gerlach on Sun, 11/29/2009 - 03:35
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Overall Feeling: 
For the most part it's a fun game jumping from rooftop to rooftop assassinating fools that could've used a lot more polish.
The Pros: 
Parkour actions are pretty solid. Duel wrist blades are rad. A lot of detail went into the look of the cities.
The Cons: 
Story which tries its best to not let you in on it. Really poor level design in some places.
ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
8

This review of AC2 was made by a multi-matter state team of various faiths, beliefs and are neither Mac¹ nor PC (..politically correct).

[Review] Dragon Age Origins

Submitted by Scott Wilson on Sat, 11/28/2009 - 14:11
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Overall Feeling: 
Despite its dull and dated visuals, Dragon Age Origins still manages to offer a terrific experience. With deep gameplay, an epic plot and host of interesting characters to meet, the world of Ferelden will suck you in and you won't want to leave.
The Pros: 
Deep gameplay forces you to think before you act. The main plot has great length, before you even consider all the little extras available to you. Multiple playthroughs are actively encouraged, extending the game's life even further.
The Cons: 
A host of visual problems, from dull and dated environments, to some clipping and frame rate issues. Lack of player voice-over is a disappointment.
ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
8

1998 saw the release of Baldur's Gate, an RPG which is still heralded by many as one of best. Several years on, a few expansions later, and BioWare have finally released what they refer to as the "spiritual successor" to Baldur's Gate; Dragon Age Origins. The game takes the traditional style of Western RPG, which is based heavily around the Dungeons and Dragons rules, and brings the whole niche to a "next-gen" level. And whilst there are a couple problems, the experience offered in Dragon Age Origins is unlike anything you'll have played this year.

[Review] Ratchet & Clank: A Crack in Time

Submitted by Ian Fisher on Sun, 11/15/2009 - 13:59
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Overall Feeling: 
Ratchet & Clank: A Crack in Time keeps the standard mechanics and formula that we know the series for but things are so refined and look so amazing that it doesn’t matter if it’s more of the same. While it would’ve been nice for the series to branch out a bit and change some things up this is easily the best installment in the Ratchet & Clank franchise and it’s a game that fans of the series and PS3 owners in general shouldn’t miss.
The Pros: 
Simply gorgeous visuals that at times will leave you speechless due to how smooth and sharp everything is. The story is well written and acted and does a nice job at putting some closure to things. While the weapon roster may not be as deep or extravagant design wise as before it’s still good and of course brings a lot of enjoyment to the game. Despite being more of the same the game is a blast to play and never drags through the 8-10 hour campaign.
The Cons: 
Some may be put off by how everything is more of the same. The new space sections are nice but could’ve been given some more depth. There may be a few occasions where the camera will go a bit wonky on you but it never occurs during important battles or platforming sections.
ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
8

After premiering on the PlayStation 2 seven years ago the Ratchet & Clank series is still going strong today with its latest installment Ratchet & Clank: A Crack in Time.  Over the years the series has grown popular due to the inventive and often huge weapons and the comical nature that’s present throughout but more importantly the series found a following since it’s one of the premier games in the dying platforming genre.

[Review] Jurassic: The Hunted makes killing dinosaurs both entertaining and funny

Submitted by Ian Fisher on Sun, 11/15/2009 - 13:58
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Overall Feeling: 
You probably have no clue what Jurassic: The Hunted is but it's definitely a game you should know about. While the game doesn't redefine the fps genre or give us a highly polished experience the game is worth checking out since it's almost the "Plan 9 From Outer Space" of video games. Bad voice acting and writing, average visuals and surprisingly fun gameplay yields an odd combination that makes Jurassic: The Hunted worth playing, especially if you like dinosaurs and fps games.
The Pros: 
Most of the visuals are pretty good and do an excellent job of setting the mood and making the dinosaurs seem believable. The controls are tight and there's a nice variety of weapons for you to blast dinosaurs with. Despite being bad the voice acting and writing makes the game really damn hilarious.
The Cons: 
The game may be too short for some and there isn't a lot of replay value since there are no online modes. It would've been nice if there were a few more original game mechanics instead of the game just borrowing from others. The animation can be pretty bad at times which definitely takes you out of the experience a bit. Depending on your sense of humor you may hate how bad the writing and acting is.
ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
7

There’s no denying that dinosaurs are awesome.  People simply love seeing these relics of the past displayed in museums or in more of an interactive nature through films and video games.  When it comes to dinosaurs getting their limelight in video games it’s been a bit rocky.

[Review] Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 a powerful GOTY contender

Submitted by Casey White on Thu, 11/12/2009 - 01:28
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Overall Feeling: 
Powerful and compelling storytelling brought to life through unique and innovative game play from the developers of one of the all-time greatest shooters. A solid follow up that improves on the original in every single way.
The Pros: 
The legendary look and feel of a Call of Duty shooter. Emotionally stirring soundtrack. Powerful scenes that will make you pause and think. The new standard for online shooters.
The Cons: 
Shorter single campaign then the previous chapter. Easier than the previous game.
ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
10

 

[Review] Pro Evolution Soccer 2010 (PES 2010)

Submitted by Scott Wilson on Thu, 11/05/2009 - 17:03
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Overall Feeling: 
Whilst much of the game has been improved, too many elements remain rooted in their recent past. The result is a game that's likely to appeal to fans but still feels inferior to its rival FIFA.
The Pros: 
The game's graphical overhaul helps to bring it up to current generation standards and the provides terrific looking player models. Master League has been reworked and now offers the player even more control over their selected team. The ball now has more weight to it resulting in a more realistic sense of speed and power.
The Cons: 
Defensives and Goalkeeper A.I. are still all too easy to expose. Commentary is very poor and almost identical to last year's. Animations still look a bit dated.
ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
7

The Pro Evolution Soccer series is one that has struggled to make the transition from the previous generation of consoles to the current one. Konami haven't been helped by the fact that in that time their main rival, EA's FIFA series, has been improving and tuning its already successful game. The PES series was once hailed by football fans alike, but its fan base now consists of mostly die-hard fans who hope for the games of old.

[Review] Uncharted 2: Among Thieves

Submitted by Ian Fisher on Mon, 10/26/2009 - 18:12
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Overall Feeling: 
Uncharted 2 is the game we all wish it would be. A game that improves upon its predecessor in every aspect more than sequels typically do. The game is a true cinematic experience as it features terrific voice acting and action scenes that put most films and games to shame. If you’re a PS3 owner who likes action games you need to have this game in your collection.
The Pros: 
Everything. Seriously, this game is just perfect. Uncharted 2 has amazing art design and the best graphics that have ever graced a console. The story is sharp and just like the first game it has amazing voice acting. The gunplay is tight and the platforming integration is the best I’ve seen in a long time. The multiplayer mode is full of goodness and depending on what you like you may end up playing that more than the single-player campaign.
The Cons: 
Cover system could be a bit smoother.
ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
10

For the past decade developers have tried to give gamers an experience that would be able to match that found in movies.  Games like Max Payne, Onimusha, Grand Theft Auto and Heavenly Sword have tried the cinematic approach through dramatic game scenarios, casting well known actors in the lead roles or by offering amazing facial animation.

[Review] Brutal Legend isn’t quite the legendary game some had hoped it would be

Submitted by Ian Fisher on Thu, 10/22/2009 - 08:58
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Overall Feeling: 
Brutal Legend is the very definition of a mixed bag. The game has a story which has a perfect amount of humor and heart that takes some nice shots at the past and present of rock music. But the various game mechanics the game gives the player just aren’t as refined and fun as they could be which makes Brutal Legend a game that is more fun to watch someone else play or to simply watch the cutscenes on YouTube.
The Pros: 
The story is really enjoyable despite the few issues it has. Jack Black and the other voice actors and accompanying rock legends all turn in excellent performances where the core of the character is front and center and not celeb doing the voice. Simply amazing art design that makes this insane rock infused world believable and more importantly entertaining to explore. Awesome rock soundtrack with tons of legendary bands.
The Cons: 
Game just isn’t that fun to play. Regular combat is okay but not that deep and the RTS sections drag on a bit due to their length and lack of intense action and core mechanics that may be too much to handle for some people. The story while fun feels like it's missing a good chunk of content that would've fleshed a lot of things out. The game lacks longevity due to a story mode that can be completed in around five hours and secondary missions which aren't that compelling.
ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
7

When it comes to music and concerts in particular the most unsung heroes are the roadies.  Despite the bands performance and what sort of show they put on none of that would be possible without the hard work roadies put into the show. Whether it’s through tuning the instruments or erecting the massive stage that the musicians perform on, roadies are the true backbone of the band and concert. Perhaps the best roadie in the business is Eddie Riggs.

[Review] FIFA 10 falls just short of perfection on account of a few faults and a lot of bugs

Submitted by Scott Wilson on Tue, 10/20/2009 - 11:23
Posted in
Overall Feeling: 
As sporting games go, FIFA 10 is as close to its sport as you’re ever likely to find. With its realistic gameplay, stunning visuals and first rate commentary, you’ll never feel closer to the game of football. Had it not been for a few niggling faults and the presence of a host of bugs, EA Canada may well have created the perfect sports game.
The Pros: 
Last years gameplay has been improved upon again, ironing out most of the little things that held FIFA 09 back. The visuals are as stunning as ever, the commentary from Gray and Tlydesley is engaging and genuinely adds to the experience. Virtual Pro is huge improvement over last year’s Be A Pro mode allowing you to use your superstar in all the games modes. Add to this, an improved Manager mode, and FIFA 10 has a lot to offer you.
The Cons: 
The game still retains a few of the issues of previous generations, namely some unfair match-ups against the computer, as well as cheap AI that results in unrealistic players. Despite the visuals, player faces still look weird, particularly for those in lower leagues. The game has a notable amount of minor bugs – well over 70. Not game breaking in any way, but they do take the shine off a very professional game.
ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
8

The FIFA series is certainly one of EA's biggest, however for many of the initial years the game lacked any real depth making it only appealing to those whose primary focus was how good a game looked. A man by the name of David Rutter (a self-proclaimed Pro Evolution Soccer fan) was so dismayed by the FIFA series that he supposedly wrote a letter to EA in which he stated over 100 elements of the game that should be improved. David Rutter is now the producer for both the Playstation 3 and Xbox 360 versions of FIFA.

Enjoy killing hordes of the walking dead? Check out our Zombie Apocalypse PSN game review

Submitted by The Jack on Mon, 10/19/2009 - 11:55
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Overall Feeling: 
Zombie Apocalypse is a very fun game that's easy to pick up, but offers lots of challenge to master. It provides great local and online multiplayer gameplay and stays true to its arcade roots.
The Pros: 
Simple intuitive controls. Very fun Multiplayer. Solid arcade shoot'em up gameplay. Zombies!
The Cons: 
A little repetitive in the later stages, but not as much as you'd expect. Environments could be a little more fleshed out and unique.
ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
8

I recently played the PS3 game Zombie Apocalypse. With its simplistic gameplay, ever increasing difficulty and wonderful co-op, it is a perfect throw back to classic four player arcade games of old.

First thing I must say, this game is not Left 4 Dead. In fact, if I may be so bold to say it, this game is what Left 4 Dead was trying to emulate, well the basic soul of it anyway. Both games are about destroying zombies, that much is obvious, but Left 4 Dead is designed for players who are more inclined towards first person shooter games.

Critter Crunch Review - Gives players an extremely fun and original puzzle game

Submitted by Ian Fisher on Sun, 10/11/2009 - 08:56
Posted in
Overall Feeling: 
Critter Crunch is fun. I don't know what else to say other than that. Capy Games have put together a game that is simply fun to play and more importantly it isn't like anything else you've played before. The visuals are gorgeous, the difficulty is just right and the game is packed with modes which will make you keep playing once you've finished the adventure mode. If you like puzzle games then there's no reason why you shouldn't check out Critter Crunch as it gives you everything you want out of a puzzle game: fun and a nice amount of depth.
The Pros: 
Gorgeous visuals that not only are a treat to look at but are beautifully designed and animated. The game has a good number of different modes which gives it a very nice replay factor. The difficulty is just about right if you have patience for some of the later stages. Figuring out which is the best way to clear critters is really engaging and requires a nice amount of thought.
The Cons: 
Some may be turned a bit off by how things ramp up in the later stages. There's a weird audio glitch that results in a popping sound which happens out of nowhere. This isn't a deal breaker as it won't break your immersion of the game as it isn't too loud but hopefully it'll be patched at some point.
ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
9

When it comes to puzzle games there’s never a short supply.  But just because there’s a big selection of puzzle games doesn’t mean that they’re all good. Infact, most are derivative and just a different variation of proven formulas like Tetris or Bejeweled.  Luckily every now and then a new game arises that breaths some much needed life and imagination into the puzzle genre and could become the next big thing, which one day itself may be copied due to its successful formula.

Afrika may not be a perfect safari but it's still enjoyable

Submitted by Ian Fisher on Tue, 10/06/2009 - 19:44
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Overall Feeling: 
Afrika may not be an extremely deep game or reach the fill potential that the E3 2006 trailer showed but it's still an enjoyable game despite the issues it has. Taking photos of an elephant or cheetah may not sound that exciting but once you play the game for an hour or so there's just something addictive and very relaxing about traversing the African landscape snapping photos of animals that look and react like their real life counterparts.
The Pros: 
Good visuals for most of the animal models. The game is very relaxing and easy to get into which makes it accessible for young players to veteran gamers. Taking photos may not sound that exciting but there's a nice amount of mission variety which should keep things interesting for everyone. The sweeping orchestral score is just amazing and really brings things to the next level in terms of immersion.
The Cons: 
Some of the environment and animal textures look a bit flat which slightly takes things down a bit. Having loading screens between areas while understandable just feels off and somewhat breaks the mood of things since you need to wait 10-15 seconds for the next area to load. The controls for the Jeep don't feel as responsive as they could be.
ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
8

After being shown at Sony’s E3 2006 press conference there was one game that had quite an aura of mystery around it and that game was Afrika.  Despite being shown at a conference filled with high profile games like Resistance, Heavenly Sword and being the birthplace for the “Massive Damage” meme there was something about Afrika that got a certain amount of buzz from gamers.  Seeing the African landscapes recreated on the PS3 with animals that moved and acted like their real life counterparts was really intriguing despite the whole question about what sort of game it would be. 

Dirt 2 fills a void in the racing genre

Submitted by Ian Fisher on Mon, 10/05/2009 - 14:22
Posted in
Overall Feeling: 
Dirt 2 is the game off-road racing fans have been wanting as it offers an experience that pays respect to the sport and makes it accessible to play compared to sim heavy titles like Gran Turismo. The controls could still use a bit of fine tuning but are definitely better than what was in the previous installment. Dirt 2 is as fresh an experience as its predecessor was and if you want an off-road racing game that doesn't involve cars that have nitro or involve pulling off tricks then Dirt 2 is the game for you.
The Pros: 
The game is visually appealing and has a really original interface that never gets boring to navigate. This is a game that requires skill in order to succeed but it has the perfect balance of being user friendly and not strictly for the pros. Dirt 2 also has an excellent soundtrack and is one of the few racing games that knows how to use music properly. All the modes and tracks in the single-player mode are available in the multiplayer mode which runs smoothly both on a technical and interface side.
The Cons: 
Controls still feel a tad bit loose, especially early on in the game which may result in some frustration. Even though there's a nice amount of tracks to race around you may grow tired of racing on the same ones constantly when you reach the higher levels in the game as the event variations seem pointless.
ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
8

When it comes to racing games there’s never a lack of variety.  If you want a realistic driving experience you can pick up titles like Gran Turismo or Forza Motorsport which is essentially porn for car enthusiasts. But if your vehicular instincts lay on the arcade side of things you have games like Burnout, Motorstorm and Midnight Club.

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