Chris Hawke
6/10/2011 04:49:00 pm
E3 2011 is over. Done. Finished. A few fleeting days of bright lights and funny colours and then...it leaves you.Sad?
Well, don't be. While GGTL@E3 may stop the posts, the Gamer's Guide to Life Network will continue to provide daily news, reviews, opinions and basically any other type of quality journalism you care to mention. Where can this be found?
Systemlink.me is your top priority if you want the latest, biggest news right on your internet doorstep.
Gamer's Guide to Life.com returns to bountiful opinion articles, analysis, interviews and everything else in the world of gaming.
It's been a pleasure to serve you over E3 2011, and we hope to see you on the other side.
Labels: E3 2011 news, Gamer's Guide to Life, Network, SystemLink
Chris Hawke
6/09/2011 08:45:00 pm
Turns out, a lot of E3 was set on a boat of some sort. Didn't realise? Well, the brilliant folks at FirstPlay did, releasing a funny, informative and eye-opening montage of E3 2011 - set to the tune of our generation.Warning: It's got swearin' and all.
Seems like boats are the 'in' things for games.
Labels: Chris Hawke, E3, Firstplay, I'm on a Boat, What the hell is this?
Chris Hawke
6/09/2011 08:23:00 pm
The Playstation Blog had a little interview on Battlefield 3, and over the deafening noise of E3, we managed to pull out a few quotes regarding the upcoming wonderkid. Here's just a snippet:"Online has always been core, and in general we're looking at a hybrid between Battlefield 2 and the later Battlefields; you're teaming up and playing together."
"It's a game where every type of player can find their place on the battlefield, from twitch-kill '14-year-olds' to the player who wants to play more slowly, more tactically."
"We don't really have killstreaks - it's not that type of 'arcadey' game. A good player will get rewards for everything; from headshots to supporting or putting down covering fire. Persistent ranking is an important part, such as getting small rewards like dogtags from a knife kill."
E3 is beginning to wind down, but we'll strive to bring you any more tidbits of info that ooze out of its cold, dying body.
Labels: Battlefield 3, Chris Hawke, DICE, EA, Killstreaks
Chris Hawke
6/08/2011 06:02:00 pm
Skyrim once again gets to flaunt its pretty face all over the E3 expo, but this time Todd Howard got to answer questions from people watching the Gamespot demo. Here's the cool bits:Can you fight while on your horse?
"No you cannot...we've limited it to just running around".
Are you really too broken up about this? Jousting is never cool.
What about character creation?
"We have a brand new face system, you can make some cool looking faces, with scars and war-paints".
Now this is amazing. Those blind NPCs shown in recent screenshots? Yeah, get ready to kit our your player to look like this badass Nord.
Weapon customization:
"We do have smithing, to make a forge weapons, and upgrade them or make them magical. It's the same with armour."
Hopefully, we can name our swords after Todd Howard. Is that too creepy? That might be too creepy...
And the mental level of detail involved?
"We've got 3D versions of every root, book, fruit and so on in the inventory"
Hot damn.
Skyrim's out 11.11.11, as must be burned into your retina by now.
Labels: Chris Hawke, E3, Skyrim
Chris Hawke
6/08/2011 05:42:00 pm
Youtube user TheMrPlayHard has posted a lovely 8 minute video of the WiiU in WiiUsage (Ha! Original). The video lays out the basic principles of...whatever the WiiU is (we're all agreeing it's a controller, right?), as well as showing some frankly beautiful gameplay of the Zelda project briefly glimpsed in the Nintendo E3 conference, which we're going ahead and nicknaming 'Zelda HD'. Are we all converting, or are WiiUnconvinced? Ha! These things write themselves...
Labels: Chris Hawke, Nintendo, WiiU, Zelda HD
Chris Hawke
6/07/2011 10:41:00 pm
Here's part 2. Frankly, I don't know why you're reading this. There's a Skyrim video below. Just click it, and let the awesomeness stream.Labels: Chris Hawke, Skyrim
Chris Hawke
6/07/2011 10:25:00 pm
Remember - you can pause the video at any point to pop upstairs and change that underwear.We'll post Part II when it appears.
Labels: Chris Hawke, Skyrim
Chris Hawke
6/07/2011 10:17:00 pm
A tad bit more Skyrim fottage has dribbled onto the internet, showing us a glimpse more into the dungeon the was used for the GTTV presentation. Look out for stabbing guys in the back, cobwebs, and a superfast dragon shout.Labels: Chris Hawke, Skyrim
Linford Butler
6/07/2011 10:11:00 pm
The EU PlayStation blog has heard your questions! Or rather, the questions that were submitted to them through the official forum. Several members of the PlayStation Europe blog provided answers to queries posted by other members, and we’ve compiled them into one large comprehensive post.
Q: When will the NGP launch in Europe?
A: [The PS Vita] will be a phased roll-out starting at the end of this year. I can't confirm when the European launch date is just yet and we will announce this shortly.
Q: Will Uncharted NGP be a launch title?
A: [The PS Vita] will be a phased roll-out starting at the end of this year. I can't confirm when the European launch date is just yet and we will announce this shortly.
Q: Will the Wifi and 3G versions of the NGP release simultaneously?
A: The two versions of PS Vita will give you the chance to get the product that suits you best.
Q: Will the Trophy system on the NGP work towards the same trophy amounts as we currently have on the PS3?
A: In terms of your Trophies, yes, the trophies you collect playing PS Vita games will add to your overall trophy count.
Q: Can we link our PS3 PSN accounts to the Vita and vice versa?
A: Yes, you will use the same PlayStation Network account that you've set up on your PS3 to access PSN on the PlayStation Vita console.
Q: Also can i access any of my PSN games from my Download list on it?
A: You'll also be able to access your download list and download/play any PSP game you've purchased so far.
Q: Will there be cross platform online between PS3 & NGP (ie Call of Duty)? With there be combo packs for PS3 & NGP Titles bundled at a competitive price (or free voucher for NGP version etc)
A: Yes, we already showed WipEout 2048 and Ruin with cross-platform play and we are working with developers to ensure this feature is rolled out across as many suitable titles as possible. In WipEout for example, you'll be able to race against people playing the game either on PS Vita or PS. As for hardware and / or software bundles, I can't confirm anything at the moment."
Q: [Will there be] backwards compatibility?
A: Absolutely. PlayStation Vita will support backwards compatibility for PSP and minis games, there's more to come too so stay tuned.
Q: How much will be the internal storage of the Vita?
A: Aside from the system software, all your data will be stored on external memory cards
Q: Does NGP allows remote play with PS3 for all games, cause PSP only allowed it on a limited number of games
A: You'll be able to access the same content via remote play on the PlayStation Vita as you can on your PSP"
Q: I believe I read I that games will be sold on a type of flash-cards (which have a read-only part for the game data, I assume?). If that is true, does it store the savegames on the same card?
A: Yes, it’s true and yes, it will store the savegames on the same card
Q: One of the features I enjoyed the most was the common vocal chat room for the friends to be able to chat together whatever the game they are playing on the PS Vita. As a former PC player it is something I missed painfully on the PS3 whereas we were almost sure that it was possible to implement it. Will you adapt it on PS3 someday in order to allow everyone to chat in a good quality vocal chat whatever game they are enjoying at the moment?
A: In terms of Party on PS Vita, as well as being able to text and voice chat with other PS Vita players when you're playing any game, you can set up multiplayer games and use it when you're using any of the features such as browsing the Internet - so for example, you could be playing Uncharted and your friend could be browsing the Internet at the same time and you could be exchanging game tips.
Q: Why was Vita chosen as a name?
A: Vita means "Life" in latin. The aim with PlayStation Vita was always to integrate the console into every aspect of your day-to-day life, so we went with a name that reflects that goal.
Q: What type of experience (effects) can we expect from the system: a 3-axis gyroscope, a 3-axis accelerometer and a 3-axis compass (plus, already mentioned, GPS)?
A: So, with the gyroscope and accelerometer, in a game such as Little Deviants, you control the characters by tilting or moving PS Vita around; also, in WipEout, you tilt PS Vita to ge the perfect line through a bend, and in Uncharted you move PS Vita to aim at a character before taking him out. As for the GPS, one of the best ways to illustrate how this will be used is in the "near" application, a location-based gaming feature that for example lets you access free virtual items that other users have shared in that location.
Q: Will it have dynamic themes like the PS3? Can i call mine Barry?
A: We're looking into ways for you to customise your PlayStation Vita, so stay tuned for more information on that. I'll see about sending you a sticker for yours which says: "This Vita is called Barry."
Q: Will the Vita have a web browser? For 3G will the Vita be using a normal sized SIM card or Micro SIM?
A: The Vita's web browser will be a much improved version of the PSP web browser. We'll have more info on that soon. As for SIM cards, the Vita will use a normal sized SIM
Q: How will the games be published on PS Vita? Physical media or downloads only (due to PSPGo not getting all games published in the PS Store)?
A: All PS Vita games will be available as downloads from PlayStation Store.
Q: Is the GPS standard for the PS Vita?
A: The GPS is standard on the 3G version; on the Wireless version, you'll still be able to access location-based services using Wireless triangulation.
Q: Does the PS Vita have a TV-out?
A: No.
Q: Does the PS Vita have an android operating system? If so, can android apps be used?
A: No; the operating system for PS Vita is built especially for the system. PS Vita will be compatible with newly developed PlayStation Suite titles.
Q: Is there a way to play my older UMD PSP games on the PS Vita? Is there so to speak an external UMD device? Will there be a region lock on the PS Vita?
A: We are considering every possibility for supporting older UMD titles.
Q: How is the handling as it is quite big?
A: PS Vita has been specifically designed for long periods of gaming; I've played lots of different games on it already and find it really easy to use and get to grips with.
Q: Will video chat on the psp cross with the ps3s video chat?
A: No, Party is software specific to PlayStation Vita consoles. You will however be able to send PSN messages from your PlayStation Vita, which can then be read by your friends on a PlayStation 3 console.
Q: What efforts have been made to ensure the uncharted 3 multiplayer is balanced?
A: Playtesting, playtesting, playtesting! We playtest our multiplayer game every day at work with anyone and everyone at the studio who wants to take part. The conversations we have after each game are really useful for us to polish the design of the multiplayer game and the balancing of the mechanics. We also playtest on members of the public and study the videos we capture of their gameplay which gives us even more useful information.
Q: What games will be offered with NGP in the release date?
A: Games like Uncharted: Golden Abyss, Little Deviants and Wipeout 2048 will all be available in close proximity to the launch of PlayStation Vita. We can't be too specific about release games at the moment, so stay tuned for more news.
Q: Will the Trophy system on the NGP work towards the same trophy amounts as we currently have on the PS3?
A: Definitely. All trophies you earn on PlayStation Vita will add to your total trophy count and level across the PlayStation Network!
Q: Can we expect the PlayStation Network on the NGP to be free?
A: Absolutely.
Q: Will it be possible to access the same friend list located on the PS3 on the NGP and to communicate with these friends?
A: All the details of your PlayStation Network account will transfer over to your Vita. So your friends list, account details and trophies will all stay the same!"
For additional questions and the chance to submit your own, check out the PlayStation Europe blog.
Parker Scott Mortensen
6/07/2011 07:42:00 pm
Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me. That's the feeling I think most people have going into this whole "Project Cafe" thing, what was the code name for what has become Wii U, and after watching the Nintendo Press Conference, I'm excited and not afraid to say it.
There's inarguably an air of excitement surrounding Nintendo right now. Whether you're into the new controller or not, Nintendo is doing something different, something that combines their comfortable brand of Wii with the familiarity of tablet-like devices sewn by Apple with iPhone and iPad.
Let's be honest, the first part of Nintendo's press conference was entertaining, but nothing special. As it started, Miyamoto announced plans for Zelda titles on all current Nintendo platforms as well as the coming Skyward Sword Zelda game (presumably for Wii and Wii U). From there, it was talk of 3DS and all the standard Nintendo franchises that are to come to it - Icarus, Mario Kart, Luigi's Mansion, Starfox, etc. - which is all well and good, but it's certainly no dramatic step forward.
And so then the introduction of the new controller seems like a dramatic step forward in comparison, but it almost feels foolish to call it that at this point. Wii itself was supposed to do much the same, and when it was first announced/released, we all got into a tizzy over its potential. Almost five years later and the Wii is more irrelevant to us than relevant. But that hasn't hampered my ability to enjoy it.
Truthfully, I think the Wii produced some of the best gaming experiences I've ever had, but I think I'm mostly alone on that one. Wii Fit is one of my favorite games of the decade, along with Wii Sports Resort and Twilight Princess. But apart from that and a handful of other sundry experiences, Wii doesn't hold my attention these days, not because it's stupid or gimmicky or lame, but because there's simply more to play elsewhere.
Wii U feels like an attempt to make the Wii brand relevant again, something I believe it can do and would be happy if it were, but I'm anxious to make a declaration whether Wii U will make for a stronger, better Nintendo. The terms "hardcore" and "casual" gamers are completely stupid, but since everyone likes to use those labels, I'll say this: Wii U can ostensibly appeal to the "hardcore", the "casual", and every shade in between (if those two segments are truly polar opposites). My biggest problem with owning a Wii was that the experiences it held were so separate from the experiences I could have on PS3, 360, or PC. While adding support for games that would traditionally inhabit those consoles solely does little to benefit the types of experiences we've been getting from Wii, I can certainly see it satiating that particular crowd that enjoys pigeonholing itself into "hardcore gamers".
What excites me is the possibilities the new Wii U controller brings, and whether or not that part appeals to the bulk of gamerspace doesn't concern me one bit. I enjoyed the hell out of Wii Sports despite the dismissive air that surrounded it. Sadly, the Wii U's most exciting feature is that it combines Nintendo first-party exclusives with the games that have lived on PS3 and 360 for five years now. I say sad because I think that attitude misses the point. It's possible to be excited about something new without being "duped", and focusing on the addition of support for "core" games and not the potential for new ones sticks us in the same myopic E3 cycle. Dramatic step forward or not, Wii U is different, something that's arguably dramatic itself when it comes to video games.
The codename for the original Wii was "Revolution", and you can argue whether that turned out fitting or not. At the least, the experiences that came out of it felt different and were compelling in their own right, even if they didn't translate well to traditional "hardcore" gamers, proving relevancy to that group is potentially irrelevant. If being "duped" by Nintendo means enjoying the unique experiences it brings, whether validated by "hardcore" gamers or not, then consider me duped and loving it.
Chris Hawke
6/07/2011 06:30:00 pm
Reggie was on GTTV, talking about the WiiU. Here's what he said:"High-def graphics, got it. Online capabilities, got it.
We're showing the online in a few days.
It's single-touch (In response to a question from Geoff).
The Wii was not unsuccessful with the hardcore.
The system's gonna be 1080p. Tick that box, it's done.
We're not talking about price yet.
It's all going to be driven by the game.
[The HD Zelda video] was an experience. I don't like the term 'tech-demo'.
We're very good a keeping secrets.
[Hitting 45 million sales before announcing WiiU] was just a nice, figurative conversation. (The Wii has not yet sold 48m, yet WiiU has been announced).
They're going to buy it for the price point (strong hint a competitive pricing).
Will it have a competitive price? Absolutely!
It will have a fantastic value.
You'll be able to play those Wii games, but with a new experience.
By the end of the week, we'll show the WiiU online.
Geoff: You're gonna have some big launch first-party games? (Reggie doesn't answer)
[About the console]: We're not emphasising the console. It's a box. We're focusing on the controller.
It will not be Blu-ray
There you go. Excited for all this, like Bruce Willis?
Labels: Chris Hawke, Nintendo, WiiU
Parker Scott Mortensen
6/07/2011 06:28:00 pm
This one's short, more of a teaser than anything, but it's implications are interesting. Hit the jump to see just what I'm talking about. Chris Hawke
6/07/2011 06:26:00 pm
Parker Scott Mortensen
6/07/2011 06:12:00 pm
Well, we've seen the controller, but no official announcement of the actual new Nintendo console - only a name. Dubbed Wii U, the new console can be seen in one of Nintendo's E3 trailers for the product. Hit the jump to see what the first glimpse at the console.
Depending on how you look at it, the similarities to the original Wii aren't surprising. Nintendo is probably trying to maintain the comfortability they built up by making Wii U's predecessor, the Wii, so unassuming and approachable, even Apple-like.
Hopefully we can get a better look at this baby as time goes on. Stick to Gamers Guide to Life for the next look at Wii U as wel las impressions on the Nintendo Conference.
Depending on how you look at it, the similarities to the original Wii aren't surprising. Nintendo is probably trying to maintain the comfortability they built up by making Wii U's predecessor, the Wii, so unassuming and approachable, even Apple-like.
Hopefully we can get a better look at this baby as time goes on. Stick to Gamers Guide to Life for the next look at Wii U as wel las impressions on the Nintendo Conference.
Chris Hawke
6/07/2011 06:10:00 pm
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