Game Podunk's Liztress writes:
We bring you Reprint Update to let you know a little something about the latest reprints we find out about. We recently received word from GameQuestDirect that they have been able to reprint two great games, Bladestorm: The Hundred Years' War for the PS3 and Shadow Hearts: From the New World for the PS2. Fans of both games should be pleased to hear this news. First up is Koei's Bladestorm: The Hundred Years' War.Game Podunk's Liztress writes:
We bring you Reprint Update to let you know a... more
Will the good story and character be enough for gamers of Dragon Age: Origin? Game Podunk's TYLERxDURDEN points out various flaws of the Dragon Age: Origins, such as combat hiccups and last generation graphics:
The big qualm I had with Dragon Age: Origins was the linear style of each city and location. Each location was limited and there was nearly nothing to explore. There was only as many locations and stores as had to be visited by quest. Also, the only people who actually have a conversation with you are the people who you needed to talk to. If someone isn’t specifically involved in a quest or doesn’t have information for a quest in progress, they won’t be able to talk to you. These things take away from the exploration that really makes games like this great.Will the good story and character be enough for gamers of Dragon Age: Origin? Game... more
Heralded as the first 2-D Mario game to hit consoles in decades, and extensively advertised for its unique up-to-four-players-at-once gameplay, New Super Mario Bros Wii has a lot to live up to. If you consider all that came before, most notably the fantastic Super Mario Bros 3 and Super Mario World, Nintendo's latest Mario game certainly has a lot of expectations for older fans especially. But how does this game measure up, either on its own or when compared to the legends of Nintendo's past?Heralded as the first 2-D Mario game to hit consoles in decades, and extensively... more
With only days away until Christmas, Game Podunk wraps up its Holiday Shopping Guides with our PC recommendations for both the casual and hardcore computer gamer on your list.With only days away until Christmas, Game Podunk wraps up its Holiday Shopping Guides... more
Game Podunk's Liztress continues our holiday shopping guide series. This time, we explore year 2009's most wanted games for Sony Playstation 3. Check out what we think are the hottest games to put on your shopping list!Game Podunk's Liztress continues our holiday shopping guide series. This time, we... more
Holiday shopping has already started and since video games are favorite gifts to give and recieve this time of the year, Game Podunk has put together a holiday guide for each platform. Rrquinta kicks off with what we recommend for Nintendo Wii.Holiday shopping has already started and since video games are favorite gifts to give... more
We all know the SOCOM series is one of the most popular multiplayer shooters out there. So then, what's with all the patches for Confrontation? TYLERxDURDEN from Game Podunk reviews and reveals!
SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs Confrontation is the franchise's first venture onto the PS3. Since the game is Online-Only, one would think that the gameplay would make up for the lack of storyline. Guess again. The great multiplayer component, that SOCOM has prided itself on for years, is lacking in the newest installment. Baffling is the departure from many common functions of SOCOM gameplay including: Round Count, Tie Breaker Rounds, and Point System. It's obvious that Slant Six Games should have stuck to a formula that has worked in the past, but they decided to switch to an 8 Round Game System with no Tie Breaker Round in which teams switch sides half way.
There are serious weapon balance issues as well. Numerous patches have been released to update certain power and accuracy of weapons, yet with each new patch, there are new inconsistencies that skew the gameplay. Weapon balancing is not the only element the updates have skewed though. These updates have also created lag issues and rank problems among many others. Overall, the game is broken and Slant Six seems to be drowning in quick sand with their endless patching.
Droplitz is one of those games that feel like they were inspired by Tetris. It brings, however, a few twists to the old formula. Great for casual gamers and likely one to get you hooked, Droplitz offers a pleasing experience for those who want something light. Just make sure that if you plan on playing for 10 minutes, you have a couple hours to spare.
Is the game a sure win for puzzle fans? "The Liztress" further explains the gameplay mechanics, graphics, sounds, and replay value!
Gameplay:
The mechanics behind the game are simple to learn. For this review, I'm going to explain the PSN version but I'm sure the XBLA and PC ones work in a similar manner. You use the "X" and "O" buttons to turn the "dials" in hopes of creating a path for the droplets of ink-like material to get from the top of the board to the bottom. The square button speeds up the pace of the droplets falling and the triangle button works the various power-ups available in certain modes. Your goal is to keep from losing droplets and creating paths as the speed of the droplets increase. This goal doesn't change throughout the four modes but each adds something unique to the mix.
Classic mode is the first available mode to play and is the simplest to play. Zendurance mode tests your endurance to see how long you can last as the droplets speed down the dials. Power Up mode allows you to use various power-ups to help you get an edge on the board. Power-ups include bombs that wipe out either a small area around the selected dial or the whole board and items to slow down the speed of the droplets to a snail's pace or even completely freezing the board. Infection mode not only allows the same power-ups as Power Up mode, but adds something to work against you: infected dials. The goal in this mode is to create oaths so you don't lose droplets and to get rid of the infected dials that will pop up. If you're not quick to dispose of them, they infect all adjoining dials, causing the dials to react sluggishly.
Graphics:
Graphics consists of colorful backgrounds and a multitude of dials. I found the themes (9 of them) to be pleasant and not the least bit distracting. Once you unlock the Zen mode, you can choose which theme to use as your background. There is enough detail to notice each droplet (if you have to time to pay attention to them) right down to the animations for when you use the power-ups. The transition between the backgrounds is subtle, which is helpful if you can't afford a distraction at a critical point where one wrong move spells game over.
...Droplitz is one of those games that feel like they were inspired by Tetris. It brings,... more
Game Podunk's Liztress takes a close look at NIS's Strategy RPG, Disgaea 3. How does it live up to past franchise staples, and is it worth the investment, or does it only cater to diehard Disgaea fans? Read the full review to find out.Game Podunk's Liztress takes a close look at NIS's Strategy RPG, Disgaea 3.... more
Game Podunk's TYLERxDURDEN takes a look at Battlefield Bad Company. Is it worth your money, or is it just another ho-hum FPS? Read his full review to find out.Game Podunk's TYLERxDURDEN takes a look at Battlefield Bad Company. Is it worth... more
Game Podunk's Whiskey brings you a review of Zipper Interactive's MAG in BETA, covering the graphics, controls, replay value, and various game modes of MAG.
Overall Rating: 8.4/10
"The command structure is amazing and executed near-perfectly, but your experience with it will depend on the squad you're with. And therein lies the most serious problem that could befall MAG. If you have nothing but people without mics on your team, you'll almost surely lose. Likewise, if all you have on your side are people that refuse to play 'for the team,' your defeat is almost certain."Game Podunk's Whiskey brings you a review of Zipper Interactive's MAG in... more
From time to time, Game Podunk staff takes a look a an older game, previewing it with the same excitement as if it were a new title soon-to-be released.
In this installment, skygear75 takes a look at the niche title Legaia 2: Duel Saga.From time to time, Game Podunk staff takes a look a an older game, previewing it with... more
Game Podunk's Liztress and rrquinta compare GameFly's online game rental service to local game stores. Is GameFly really better, or does the convenience of renting local trump any benefits the online powerhouse may offer?Game Podunk's Liztress and rrquinta compare GameFly's online game rental... more
Atlus has announced today that Shin Megami Tensei: Persona for the PSP system is now available in stores across North America. The game is a remake of the first chapter in the highly-acclaimed Persona franchise, released in North America twelve years ago as Revelations: Persona for the Playstation. The UMD version of the game will be sold in a Collector's Edition boxed set and will house a 2-disc soundtrack of the game's entire musical score. This is no pre-order special, and the CDs are included with all copies of the game, but only for those at launch.
A digital version of the game will also be available via the Playstation Network and is scheduled for a October 1 release. Both versions of the game will be priced at $39.99, but only physical launch copies will have the soundtrack. So hardcore fans may want to consider grabbing the UMD version(plus, you won't have to wait another week for the game).Atlus has announced today that Shin Megami Tensei: Persona for the PSP system is now... more
"25 Things About Me," is an editorial series by Game Podunk, where your favorite video game characters create their list of 25 things about themselves. Game Podunk Editors once again wake up the Prince of Darkness, Laharl, from the popular Atlus game series, "Disgaea."
1. I have starred in six games but for some reason I was only the main character in three. I'm the original main character and I want more airtime, dammit!!
2. Some people believe that optimism and women with sexy bodies are my weaknesses. But that isn't entirely true. I just don't want to be suffocated by all the attention the women would give me.
3. While I do hate all that “love” crap Flonne's always trying to get me into, I do share her love of ramen and pocky.
4. Etna hasn't been the most loyal vassal (she poisoned me and went behind my back and hired those Prinnies) but she knows who the real Overlord is.
5. My favorite activity is Prinny Bowling. I'm sure you all know what that is. I've included a video of the activity below for those who don't. As you can tell, I make the main characters from Disgaea 2 do all the work for me. We're also the PBL (Prinny Bowling League) champions."25 Things About Me," is an editorial series by Game Podunk, where your... more
Platform: Nintendo DS
Genre: RPG
ESRB Rating: E 10+
Publisher / Developer: Konami
Overall Rating: 7/10
Overall Recommendation: Amazing story with tedious gameplay and great production values make this a must-play for those who enjoy a good tale but have the patience to muddle through boring battles.
Overview
Suikoden Tierkreis (ST) is a turn-based RPG. True to the series roots, you have a large cast of characters to recruit to your army, and you set up base in an abandoned castle. The story is a unique, creative, and engrossing one, that will have you anxious to find out what happens next in much the same way that a good mystery novel will.Platform: Nintendo DS
Genre: RPG
ESRB Rating: E 10+
Publisher / Developer: Konami... more
"25 Things About Me," is an editorial series by Game Podunk, where your favorite video game characters create their list of 25 things about themselves. The Editors has sat down for a long chat with one of the most beloved and honored video game character of all times - Mr. Pac-Man!
25 Things About Me by Pac-Man
1. I can eat just about anything, not just pac-dots! Wakka Wakka Wakka!
2. Pac-Man is my stage name while the official legal name is Puck-Man. I believe going with “Pac” rather than “Puck” was a good choice, don’t you?
3. Technically, dot-eaters are NOT out of shape because if you think about it, being “round’ is a shape!
4. I met Ms. Pacman on a blind maze chase, and after one good look at her in that cute red bow it was love at first sight!
5. Before I rose to stardom, people often confused me with the Kool-Aid Man. Oh yeah, it was frustrating to be asked if I was yellow that day to promote a new flavor."25 Things About Me," is an editorial series by Game Podunk, where your... more
This year's holiday season may be a looking a bit bleak due to many anticipated titles making the jump to 2010, but that didn't stop Nintendo from releasing a list that should appeal to just about everyone.
It's a pretty big list, but I'll talk about a couple of noteworthy items. First off, The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks for the Nintendo DS received a release date of December 7. Along with the list, the game's boxart was also revealed. In case you're not in the know, Spirit Tracks is the upcoming sequel to Phantom Hourglass, which was also for the Nintendo DS. From its looks to its controls, the game's are just about identical. Instead of a boat, Link is now riding on a train. If you enjoyed Phantom Hourglass(Wind Waker and Minish Cap), Spirit Tracks is sure to be a worthy investment.This year's holiday season may be a looking a bit bleak due to many anticipated... more
Great news Wii owners! Square-Enix has finally announced a release date for their long anticipated title, Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: The Crystal Bearers. You won't be getting it for Christmas, but the game will still be coming out before the year ends, as the release date is officially set for December 26, 2009 at the usual Wii game price of $49.99.
It's definitely the first major Final Fantasy experience for the Nintendo Wii. Not only that, it will feature an entirely new type of gameplay that no title in the whole Final Fantasy spectrum has seen, featuring a control scheme similar to that of a third-person shooter. Set in the same universe as the other Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles games, Crystal Bearers will take place 1000 years after the events of the original. The hero of the game is Layle, a young mercenary, who has the powers of a crystal bearer, which allows him to battle enemies and move objects at will. With this concept, players are able to interact with their surroundings in this large scale environment that's open for exploration. Also, unlike the other Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles titles that focused on co-op gameplay, Crystal Bearers is focused on providing a strong single-player experience.Great news Wii owners! Square-Enix has finally announced a release date for their long... more
Game Podunk introduces our fun series, 25 Things About Me, where we will have fun with a video game character, creating their list of 25 things about themselves, as if written from their point of view. Although much of the information included in these lists will come from facts about the character from their games, we've also used our imagination to fill in some of the blanks! So enjoy! We hope you'll have as much fun reading these as we've had writing them.
25 Things About Me: Chris Redfield
1. Most people only know me as Chris, but my full name is actually Christopher Redfield.
2. My mission in life is to stop the distribution of viral weaponry and end bioterrorism that started with the Umbrella Corporation. This is why I’m one of the founding members of BSAA (Bioterrorism Security Assessment Alliance) along with my partner, Jill Valentine.
3. I can yawn on demand even when I’m not tired. It’s something I picked up as a kid when pretending to be bored with my sister.
4. When I was ten years old, I lost a bet to Claire and ended up going door to door selling cookies in her Girl Scout’s uniform. Guess I can put this down as one of those embarrassing moments….
5. One childhood dream of mine was to be a stand-up comedian. Hey, at least this was possible; Claire wanted to be a dolphin.
...Game Podunk introduces our fun series, 25 Things About Me, where we will have fun with... more
