It looks like I will either have to replace the AV cables on my 360, and/or take the whole thing apart to apply thermal compound; which means thorough research and a trip to the store. I.E. no videos today.
I will come back to this game once my 360 is in order; Black Ops 2 is a great game, and I intend to keep it.
Next week, however, I will be reviewing Hitman: Absolution for your pleasure.
Not telling you how just yet. That's going to have to be a surprise :)
Anyway, once I get my 360 up and running again, I will make a video review for Black Ops 2 Zombie mode as promised.
Sorry for the delay
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Sunday, November 25, 2012
Saturday, November 24, 2012
Murphy's Law; Black Ops 2 Multi-Player Review
I gotta stop making promises I can't keep.
For those of you unfamiliar with the title's origin, Murphy's Law is thus:
Anything that can go wrong, will go wrong. This applies directly to my Xbox 360.
First the controller won't connect, then I get the red ring of death, and then just as I breath a sigh of relief as the red ring only meant a disconnected cable, the AV stops working. Plus the EasyCap device won't work directly with Premiere Pro. Not my day.
I will unfortunately need to postpone the multi-player video until further notice. I will not make any promises this time, so as not to disappoint. Sorry for the inconvenience.
But I did get a chance to try out the multiplayer before it all went down south, so I do have a few words to say; the main one being that it's not all that different.
As I said in my video review, Campaign mode has always been a weak spot in the Call of Duty franchise; why I recommend games like Spec Ops: the Line for more story themed enthusiasts. That being said, the Multi-player is among it's strongest features most of the time in Call of Duty games. The design decisions that seemed to guide the creation of Black Ops 2 almost seems to prove it.
Because the Campaign mode seems better then the multi-player mode.
There are no Strike Team modes or access panels in multi-player, and I actually find myself missing the engaging (if still somewhat nonsensical) story of the Campaign mode. With multi-player its seems to follow the same mode as Black Ops 1 and Modern Warfare 3. You got your core mode, your hardcore, your perks, your different games modes, seems almost like a re-glossing of the same tried and true formula.
Not to say that it isn't good; Call of Duty has always had strong multi-player modes above all else. Most of the features that persisted were innovative upgrades made in the previous game that are streamlined toward simplicity and a more futuristic look. The point tally used for kill streaks is still there, but is now represented by a stylish meter with a slightly more complex score. The kill-to-reward ratio is still the same, and the only thing different is the way it is presented. Also have a new system for collecting new weapons, attachments, and gameplay perks that uses tokens. Basically instead of gathering 1000 or more points for a new weapon or perk, you only spend a single token on anything new. Like I said; more streamlined.
For those of you unfamiliar with the multi-player environment of Call of Duty games, be warned; there is a steep learning curve, as always. Unless you are familiar with what is called "noob-tubing", the price of admission to playing even a single game can be steep. And it is usually marked with your own multiple deaths. Understand that many people have been playing and buying this franchise of games since it was just another World War 2 simulator for the PC. The veterans who play this game will be right on top of this one, and will take all of there awesome skill with them. Don't get fustrated; everybody dies a lot, even when they are good.
Something to consider is what's called the "Season Pass" for the series. For an extra $25 you will get 4 extra maps to play on and a chance to play in more professional tournaments with a special interface. I wouldn't recommend this to casual players, as it is obvious this was made for die-hard fans in mind.
This game will play like almost any other Call of Duty game you played on multi-player, complete with exploding traps, campers, player rewards, and kill streaks. If you liked Call of Duty so far, and are ready to take the game tricks you know and love to the next level, get the season pass along with the game. If you got sick of the same mechanics and systems in Modern Warfare 3, try campaign and zombie mode instead.
For those of you unfamiliar with the title's origin, Murphy's Law is thus:
Anything that can go wrong, will go wrong. This applies directly to my Xbox 360.
First the controller won't connect, then I get the red ring of death, and then just as I breath a sigh of relief as the red ring only meant a disconnected cable, the AV stops working. Plus the EasyCap device won't work directly with Premiere Pro. Not my day.
I will unfortunately need to postpone the multi-player video until further notice. I will not make any promises this time, so as not to disappoint. Sorry for the inconvenience.
But I did get a chance to try out the multiplayer before it all went down south, so I do have a few words to say; the main one being that it's not all that different.
As I said in my video review, Campaign mode has always been a weak spot in the Call of Duty franchise; why I recommend games like Spec Ops: the Line for more story themed enthusiasts. That being said, the Multi-player is among it's strongest features most of the time in Call of Duty games. The design decisions that seemed to guide the creation of Black Ops 2 almost seems to prove it.
Because the Campaign mode seems better then the multi-player mode.
There are no Strike Team modes or access panels in multi-player, and I actually find myself missing the engaging (if still somewhat nonsensical) story of the Campaign mode. With multi-player its seems to follow the same mode as Black Ops 1 and Modern Warfare 3. You got your core mode, your hardcore, your perks, your different games modes, seems almost like a re-glossing of the same tried and true formula.
Not to say that it isn't good; Call of Duty has always had strong multi-player modes above all else. Most of the features that persisted were innovative upgrades made in the previous game that are streamlined toward simplicity and a more futuristic look. The point tally used for kill streaks is still there, but is now represented by a stylish meter with a slightly more complex score. The kill-to-reward ratio is still the same, and the only thing different is the way it is presented. Also have a new system for collecting new weapons, attachments, and gameplay perks that uses tokens. Basically instead of gathering 1000 or more points for a new weapon or perk, you only spend a single token on anything new. Like I said; more streamlined.
For those of you unfamiliar with the multi-player environment of Call of Duty games, be warned; there is a steep learning curve, as always. Unless you are familiar with what is called "noob-tubing", the price of admission to playing even a single game can be steep. And it is usually marked with your own multiple deaths. Understand that many people have been playing and buying this franchise of games since it was just another World War 2 simulator for the PC. The veterans who play this game will be right on top of this one, and will take all of there awesome skill with them. Don't get fustrated; everybody dies a lot, even when they are good.Something to consider is what's called the "Season Pass" for the series. For an extra $25 you will get 4 extra maps to play on and a chance to play in more professional tournaments with a special interface. I wouldn't recommend this to casual players, as it is obvious this was made for die-hard fans in mind.
This game will play like almost any other Call of Duty game you played on multi-player, complete with exploding traps, campers, player rewards, and kill streaks. If you liked Call of Duty so far, and are ready to take the game tricks you know and love to the next level, get the season pass along with the game. If you got sick of the same mechanics and systems in Modern Warfare 3, try campaign and zombie mode instead.
here is my Seven Word Synopsis of the multi-player game mode
Simplified Interface
Same Mechanics
Good for Veterans
If I can get my Xbox working by tommorow (God willing) I will add a video to this post along with a review of Zombie mode. If not, expect a Hitman review for the PS3 next week.
Keep your fingers crossed!
Friday, November 23, 2012
Black Ops 2, Black Friday sales, and a Story to read.
Good things come to those who wait. And for you patient viewers, I have for you my very fist
video review. You can also check it out on my Youtube page if you like.
Enjoy
Yes, I understand that today is Friday.
I originally wanted to get this done last week. The Capture Device and the software used to make this proved to be a pain in my ass. Good thing it's Black Friday!
Speaking of which, here is a short list of great deals you can find on great games. This is my reward for all of your patience:
Recommended Games from Amazon.com:
Recommended Games from GameStop
That's just about it for today. Tommorow we will go over Multiplayer mode.
After that: ZOMBIES!
But before you go anywhere, and if your the kind of person who likes to read something besides video game reviews, try my short story The Loner posted in the contest below.
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Video review is Postponed.
Sorry Guys and Gals,
The Easycap video capture device I'm using has been giving me greif all week; the audio driver is missing and I can't download it due to the new anti-piracy laws as of late. Thank you Uncle Sam.
I am going to need some serious editing and adjustments to make my footage into a video worth watching. If all goes well, it will be ready by tomorrow afternoon. I can't make any promises though; the sound I wound up with is terrible, and either needs serious tweaking or elimination. Probably the latter.
I also need to attend my mother's birthday party tomorrow. Promised her a hand made card and intend to keep that promise. I love my mom.
But fear not, those of you who read this humble blog regularly and diligently; good things come for those who wait. All I ask is that you wait a day or two for that video.
I will give you a sneak peak into it though; the game is AWESOME!
Details when I'm finished :)
The Easycap video capture device I'm using has been giving me greif all week; the audio driver is missing and I can't download it due to the new anti-piracy laws as of late. Thank you Uncle Sam.
I am going to need some serious editing and adjustments to make my footage into a video worth watching. If all goes well, it will be ready by tomorrow afternoon. I can't make any promises though; the sound I wound up with is terrible, and either needs serious tweaking or elimination. Probably the latter.
I also need to attend my mother's birthday party tomorrow. Promised her a hand made card and intend to keep that promise. I love my mom.
But fear not, those of you who read this humble blog regularly and diligently; good things come for those who wait. All I ask is that you wait a day or two for that video.
I will give you a sneak peak into it though; the game is AWESOME!
Details when I'm finished :)
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Quiz Answers Revealed
Pencils down, kiddies. Time to reveal wheather or not
Spec Ops: The Line is right for YOU!
If you are reading this first, I strongly suggest you click on this link and read the questions first.
"Is Spec Ops Right for You?(Quiz)
There are only five questions, and there are no right or wrong answers. This is just a test to see
if Spec Ops: The Line is the kind of game you want to buy/rent/borrow/play period.
I did the review in this format mostly due to the controversial and nuanced form of engagement that this game offers. I find it much to my liking, and as a good departure from the rut most triple A titles tend to suffer from. But this is my opinion, not fact. Answering these questions will clarify your opinions on the controversies that come from this game, and should offer insight as to weather or not you actually want to play this or if this just isn't your cup of tea.
For each question, I will list what each answer means for you. The answers to each question will be lettered in red.
Here we go:
Hope these results give you an idea as to what this game is about. If you think you can handle mediocre gameplay with a bold, controversial message that isn't fun but engaging, you would want to buy this game.
If not, either rent it or leave it for someone else.
"Is Spec Ops Right for You?(Quiz)
There are only five questions, and there are no right or wrong answers. This is just a test to see
if Spec Ops: The Line is the kind of game you want to buy/rent/borrow/play period.
I did the review in this format mostly due to the controversial and nuanced form of engagement that this game offers. I find it much to my liking, and as a good departure from the rut most triple A titles tend to suffer from. But this is my opinion, not fact. Answering these questions will clarify your opinions on the controversies that come from this game, and should offer insight as to weather or not you actually want to play this or if this just isn't your cup of tea.
For each question, I will list what each answer means for you. The answers to each question will be lettered in red.
Here we go:
Question 1: Have you watched Apocolypse Now, and/or have read the book Heart of Darkness? If so, did you enjoy it? If not, would you want to read or watch either?
I made this question based both on my research of the game and my basic observations while playing it; I have seen Apocalypse Now! (great movie) and saw some stark similarities between the game and the film. You play as the commander of a three man squad of a crack team of special operatives, sent to the sand-blasted city of Dubai in search for a rouge commander gone missing. You soon learn the ugly truth behind what is going on and the horrors that is both war and humanity. Apocalypse Now! is the same basic set-up, except the target is in Vietnam. Both works are based off of the book Heart of Darkness, and relate the horrors of war as the center of darkness in the wilderness. It is grim, it is not fun, but it sure as hell is engaging.
a) yes, and I loved it! The dark message doesn't seem to bother you, if it doesn't encourage you outright. The subject matter is obviously well-suited to you, as is the type of engagement. Spec Ops: The Line might be just the kind of game you are looking for. This is obviously something your used to.
b) yes, but it wasn't my cup of tea. Obviously, this kind of dark allegorical story isn't something you find engaging, and Spec Ops:The Line is the kind of game not meant for players like you. I'm glad you gave both the movie and/or the book a chance, but the game hits retail at about $39.99. Unless you can rent it or get a great deal on it, I wouldn't even bother looking at it if I were you.
c) no, but they sound interesting. Buckle up your seat belt, partner; your in for one hell of a ride! This might mean you will enjoy it more then anybody who did NOT answer c, only because you have the benefit of surprise. And believe me, this game is full of surprises; mainly, the nasty kind...
d) no and I don't plan to. Got a MW3 tournament this weekend. Even though the last sentence of this answer was obviously a joke, it does allude to the reason I made this quiz; a lot of players just want to shoot stuff. You obviously have not read Heart of Darkness or watched Apocalypse Now! and you don't seem to show much interest in doing either. You seem like the kind of audience most developers would target; adrenaline junkies who like to frag noobs online. Spec Ops:The Line is a great game, but it's biggest weaknesses are its graphics and multi-player mode. This game was not made with you in mind.
Question 2: Did you ever play Gears of War? If you did, do you enjoy it? If not, would you buy it?
The game Spec Ops:The Line is a continuation of a game franchise that hasn't been released since the Playstation 1 era. The team that designed it, Yeager, knew that they could never compete with games like Call of Duty or Battlefield without going way over budget. So they took a move novel approach; abandoned game mechanics for a new type of engaging yet disturbing gameplay. This is not a game for you kids.
That being said, if I had to compare the actual "game" to anything on the market now, it would be Gears of War. Your preference and experience with said game will apply to this one very easily.
That being said, if I had to compare the actual "game" to anything on the market now, it would be Gears of War. Your preference and experience with said game will apply to this one very easily.
a) yeah, I love GOW! bought every game! You will find the basic button layout and cover mechanics intuitive and second nature. You might enjoy it the most, since this takes the game play you find the most comfortable, and puts it in a more grim, realistic setting. If you can tolerate the watered down control scheme and the somewhat unrefined graphic quality, you are in for a treat.
b)yeah, and it sucks the big one! You obviously played GOW and did not like it. This game plays very similar to GOW. Buy something else.
c) no, but I want to buy it sometime! Try this game instead. It's cheaper, and has a much better story to it.
d) no, and I don't want to buy it. EVER! This depends on why you would pick this answer. If it's because you don't like action games, then don't pick Spec Ops. If it is because you think the story for GOW stunk, then you need to at least give this game a try. you will not be dissapointed.
Question 3: How important are graphics in a game?
This question is pretty self explanatory. The game has good graphics, but not nearly as good as other action games of its kind. If you are the kind of player who would rather watch something pretty then be engaged through controversial subject matter, you might want to check the answers on this. Remember; pick the answer that is right for YOU!
a) they are everything in a game. The developers at Yeager games had not the budget or the technology to meet your expectations. Try something else.
b) good games sometimes have bad graphics If you can tolerate something that does not look like COD, this is definitely a game worth your time.
c)good games don't need good graphics This is your game. Rent to for the weekend.
d) who cares about graphics besides technophiles? If more people felt like you did, Okami would be a best selling game. Buy it.
Question 4: Do games always need to be fun?
If there is anything you can take away from this article and others like it, it is this; Spec Ops:The Line was not meant to be a fun game. This game engages the player with sorrow, horror, controversy, and profound messages. If you can't buy into that, don't buy the game.
a) Of course they do, you dumb S***! Go play Call of Duty instead
b) Games should be fun, more often then not. Try renting it, and see if its worth buying
c) Games don't always need to be fun. Buy it.
d) the Game industry's reliance on fun is holding it back as a whole. Buy it right now, and write a review on blogger!
Question 5: Is there something wrong with the shooting games of today?
This question is meant to measure one thing and one thing only; your tolerance for controversy. If you are the kind of person who thinks that games are "just a game" and "only meant to be fun" then you will not agree with this game's message. If you are willing to let go of the fact that you played COD:MW and GOW for half of your lifetime and they did not necessarily imply the best of what games have to offer, you will find the message in this game moving.
a) Of course there are; don't you watch the news?! I am surprised you would even read an article like this. Do keep in mind that despite its controversial content, this game actually agrees with you; this is a shooting game made to critique other shooting games. Enjoy the message, if you can.
b) Shooting games aren't all bad, but they desperately need improvement. I have one word for what this game will offer you, kind sir or madam; Vindication!
c) Shooting games are fine. Then you will disagree with the folks at Yeager.
d) WTF? Are you dissing my favorite game?! Quit trolling and GTFO. This is not your game.
Hope these results give you an idea as to what this game is about. If you think you can handle mediocre gameplay with a bold, controversial message that isn't fun but engaging, you would want to buy this game.
If not, either rent it or leave it for someone else.
Seven Word Synopsis
Engaging Game
Controversial Subjects
Pick with Care.
That's all I got for now. Join me on Saturday for my first ever video review.
Once again the subject is
Until next time.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Is Spec Ops right for you?(Quiz)
Spec Ops: the Line is like no other game you will play for a very long time. Not because the graphics are gorgeous, not because the game itself is a masterpeice. It's golden principle that makes this a must play game is the simple fact that it is not made just to have fun.
This is a game with an important message.
I won't give away what that message is this time (no spoilerz!) but I will give you some insight as to what this game is about and wheather or not you should fork forty dollars for it (cheap for a game, really).
How am I going to do this? Grab your pencils and paper, students! Its time to take the first evar
a) yes, and I loved it!
b) yes, but it wasn't my cup of tea
c) no, but they sound interesting.
d) no and I don't plan to. Got a MW3 tournament this weekend.
This is a game with an important message.
I won't give away what that message is this time (no spoilerz!) but I will give you some insight as to what this game is about and wheather or not you should fork forty dollars for it (cheap for a game, really).
How am I going to do this? Grab your pencils and paper, students! Its time to take the first evar
Game Review Quiz!
Today's Subject - Spec Ops:the Line
That's right; I will once gain go where no game reviewer has gone before, and instead of simply giving you reasons why or why not to buy this game, I will give you the chance to find out for yourself by answering five simple multiple-choice questions!
There are no right or wrong answers to this quiz. The results will reveal wheather or not you are likely to enjoy this game. The key word in italics is likely, and the next key word is enjoy. Spec Ops is kind of a depressing game...
We will go over the questions today, and I will reveal the answers in my next post. Here we go...
Question 1: Have you watched Apocolypse Now, and/or have read the book Heart of Darkness? If so, did you enjoy it? If not, would you want to read or watch either?
b) yes, but it wasn't my cup of tea
c) no, but they sound interesting.
d) no and I don't plan to. Got a MW3 tournament this weekend.
Question 2: Did you ever play Gears of War? If you did, do you enjoy it? If not, would you buy it?
a) yeah, I love GOW! bought every game!
b)yeah, and it sucks the big one!
c) no, but I want to buy it sometime!
d) no, and I don't want to buy it. EVER!
Question 3: How important are graphics in a game?
a) they are everything in a game.
b) good games sometimes have bad graphics
c)good games don't need good graphics
d) who cares about graphics besides technophiles?
Question 4: Do games always need to be fun?
a) Of course they do, you dumb S***!
b) Games should be fun, more often then not.
c) Games don't always need to be fun.
d) the Game industry's reliance on fun is holding it back as a whole.
Question 5: Is there something wrong with the shooting games of today?
a) Of course there are; don't you watch the news?!
b) Shooting games aren't all bad, but they desperately need improvement.
c) Shooting games are fine.
d) WTF? Are you dissing my favorite game?!
Answer the above questions truthfully as possible, then write them down. Check out the post "Quiz Answers Revealed" through the blog archive above to see what your answers mean, and if Spec Ops is worth picking up.
Next week will be my first video review. The subject....
Until Next Time!
Monday, November 12, 2012
What Gamers Want
Sorry for the three week delay; I just recently quit my job, and the month that followed was a bit rough...
And looking for a new job is not going to be easy.
But don't worry;this is not going to become my personal blog just yet. This blog is and will always remain about reviewing games and informing the gamer community on its economic purchases and opportunities.
 |
| Probably haven't even heard of the NES |
And by gamers, I am referring to both hardcore fanboys and the casual enthusiasts.
I've already reviewed both the new game Dishonored with a survey on how the game played(no results guys; looks like I don't get enough veiws yet to grab volunteers) and two top ten lists for the critically acclaimed Uncharted 3. I will play Spec Ops: The line today and work it into another review tomorrow(This time with a quiz). But this one is not going to be about game reviews specifically. Rather it will be a special article on
What Gamers Want.
You might be confused as to wheather or not this article is about unveiling myths and misconceptions to people who never even heard of the Wii or a shoutout to game designers as to what consumers really want. To which I reply; yes, and I hope the information here also serves as a sounding board to anyone who thinks that the term "gamer" is non-specific to any one type of person. Heck, I would call anyone who loved chess or tic tac toe a gamer who never fully matured. And yes; I will include board games, card games, and pencil and paper RPGs in the mix of what a gamer is. So those of you who really haven't played any of the games I have talked about in this blog and/or wonder what a gamer is by definition, here are a few links to go with my own interpretation of the word "gamer":
Urban Dictionary definiton
Real dictionary definition
Common definition of "Gamer"
Like I said earlier; we were all gamers at one point. We once played checkers and tic tac toe. We played "I Spy" in the car with our mom and dad. Heck, my dad hates facebook and twitter and even he stayed up all night to play Legend of Zelda. Every time I got a new Zelda game, he would give me a new strategy guide. I love my pop :).
But like artists and believers in magic, some people grow out of it. Others do not. The people the public usually designates as "gamers" are usually designating them to people who still play board games outside the family, bring a PSP and/or 3DS to work, and still remember the names of the first 151 Pokemon. I fall into the latter.
As a gamer who chatted with other gamers, both traditional fan boys and people from a more casual background, I notice that there are a certain number of desires that bring us together as a group. I suppose this is true for almost any culture or sub-culture you can think of; we are united by our differences in the face of adversity. To be more specific on these desires and how they apply to video gaming (among other forms of games) I have here a short list of things that gamers strive for and what even non-gamers can give to the community that will help you both understand and be a part of the gaming community. There will be seven subjects followed by a very special Seven Word Synopsis.
We get it; games are often completely unrealistic and can be disturbingly violent to describe. We won't give your kids a copy of Resident evil 6 or Halo (unless of course you asked us first) and we respect and understand the gravity of things like airport shootings and violence in the media. Also, many of us are anything but social butterflies and make little to no attempt to hide it.
No more then any sports fan is a drunken redneck slob who would rather see the home team win then the second coming of christ. Sure, this is true for some fans, and I claim no perfection to any culture that exists. All I ask is that you stop making a big stink out of every violent game, or every questionable act from a "gamer", and stop protesting the things we love. When I went to E3 last year, there was two things I noticed while participating; one was a group called "Jesus loves Gamers" which was run by a booth offering free beer and good cheer. The other was a crowd of protesters outside, preaching how E3 and the people in it were the devil. I bought a T shirt at the booth, and quite frankly wouldn't have minded showing it off to those protesters.
Keep this in mind when you buy a game for yourself or someone you love; make sure it is worth it.
Gamers, don't let glossy ads or propaganda influence the games you buy. Sometimes it pays to wait for a new game to become old, and drop in price. Other times you might just want to read the reviews or buy something cheap off of Live or PSN. Try an indie game; they're usually cheap.
Be patient as they learn the rules of the game.
Never forced them to play or not play.
Games are often meant to have fun, and always meant to bring people together!
And now, for the #1 thing most gamers want....(drum roll plea....
Wait, I did this gag already, didn't I?
Oh well, lets move on to the #1 thing that Gamers want.
Urban Dictionary definiton
Real dictionary definition
Common definition of "Gamer"
Like I said earlier; we were all gamers at one point. We once played checkers and tic tac toe. We played "I Spy" in the car with our mom and dad. Heck, my dad hates facebook and twitter and even he stayed up all night to play Legend of Zelda. Every time I got a new Zelda game, he would give me a new strategy guide. I love my pop :).
But like artists and believers in magic, some people grow out of it. Others do not. The people the public usually designates as "gamers" are usually designating them to people who still play board games outside the family, bring a PSP and/or 3DS to work, and still remember the names of the first 151 Pokemon. I fall into the latter.
As a gamer who chatted with other gamers, both traditional fan boys and people from a more casual background, I notice that there are a certain number of desires that bring us together as a group. I suppose this is true for almost any culture or sub-culture you can think of; we are united by our differences in the face of adversity. To be more specific on these desires and how they apply to video gaming (among other forms of games) I have here a short list of things that gamers strive for and what even non-gamers can give to the community that will help you both understand and be a part of the gaming community. There will be seven subjects followed by a very special Seven Word Synopsis.
#7:Gamers want to be respected for their quirks; not admonished!
We get it; games are often completely unrealistic and can be disturbingly violent to describe. We won't give your kids a copy of Resident evil 6 or Halo (unless of course you asked us first) and we respect and understand the gravity of things like airport shootings and violence in the media. Also, many of us are anything but social butterflies and make little to no attempt to hide it.
That being said; leave us the f**k alone.
You don't see gaming enthusiasts picket line around the football stadium due to it interrupting the Simpsons or due to the thousands of injuries in football games per year (which may actually be a generous estamite). There isn't a media scandal every time a new movie or a new song comes out that has "violent subject matter". Even when it's something like Hostel or Cannibal Corpse.
This is a message to all of the people out there who think that the video game industry/role playing game crowd/etc is a bunch of satan worshipping loners; were not.
Games are like any other pastime enjoyed by people; be it movies, books, music, sports, travel, or artwork. They are enjoyed by nice, unique people like you and me.
Next time you see someone you think is a gamer, who says something about a game you didn't play that you don't understand, don't get annoyed or frustrated; Google it and see what they are talking about.
If you yourself are a gamer, and someone starts to make fun of you for playing a game, put on your headphones and crank up the volume. Be proud of what you love.
#6 Gamers want to try something new.
Back when I used to work at FedEx grounds, I often got a chance to talk to people one on one. We would stand inside the truck, on opposite sides of an extending conveyor, and chat about whatever while we loaded the boxes on. Not surprisingly, a lot of the people I conversed with were into games. Even my boss asked me about the latest Call of Duty so he knew what to get his son for Christmas.
There was one conversation in particular, however, that peaked my interest the most as a gamer, a up-and-coming game designer, and a game reviewer all at the same time. I was talking with a guy about my age, who was of even temperament and had a somewhat cynical outlook on things. The first time we talked about games, he told me that he was sick of the same old thing. That he rarely played games because they all seemed the same. He wanted something new.
A chord was stuck in me at this statement. And as I progressed in my classes for game design, I learned all too well that many gamers (who also aspired to be designers) were looking for something more unique to play.
If you ever looked at a Gamestop aisle or the game selection on Gamefly or Redbox, you would notice that many games on display look very similar. Half of the games have a solider carrying a rifle, a quater has a cute anime style character going on an adventure, and the rest either have a tough guy with a gun, a car racing on the road, or an assassin in a cloak and hood. It's official; triple A titles are in a big rut. And they need a swift kick in the ass if they want to break that rut.
The problem is that games like this are often reviewed by sites like metacritic and IGN, who are often sponsored by the same companies that make the game. It creates what most professionals call a conflict of interest. The truth is, gaming sites and review magazines are often looked at by the industry as a whole more as publicity pieces then critical reviews. Most companies are not made or broken by a single review; rather, they live and dye by the exposure they give them. Most games that have a "Coming soon" string of articles and coverage have substantially higher "game scores" then those who are released without publication. Sad really.
Take comfort in the fact that they are a heavy stream of freelance video game reviewers like myself who would like to see bad games get called bad games and treat reviews as a grand critique rather then a publication of their "favorite game" that they just got paid to play. I make no money from this site as of yet, and even if and when I do, I will dedicate this site(and others like it) to giving the gaming industry the pat down it deserves.
If you are a gamer, it would do you a world of good and make that world a better place if you stop wasting you money on half-assed high budget games and explored both kickstarter and newgrounds.com for something more unique.
If you are not a gamer, understand that by not knowing the game industry in and out puts you in a unique position. On one hand, you might need to do some research to understand the medium as a whole. On the other-hand you can provide all of us with good insights that don't suffer from the echo chamber we often make for ourselves out of excitement.
Both gamers and non-gamers can come together to expand what a video game is and what it can do, simply by being more selective and exploring the indie market. Here's a few links to help get you started on the latter:
#5: Gamers want the most bang for their hard earned buck.
Okay, since that last one was a bit long and became something of a rant, I will keep this short and neat.
Traditional video games can cost anywhere from fifty to sixty dollars in the US. With downloadable content(some of which is almost mandatory), pre-ordering and taxes, it can hike up to the hundreds for each game you buy. Online games are often a fraction of the cost, but are of lower quality(more often then not) and don't take half as long to play. One of the big reasons most reviews have both a numerical score and make it a habit to describe the game is simply because they want to insure the reader that it is either a good or bad investment. Lets gamers be picky without missing out.
Non-gamers, if you want to give your loved one a game that they would like, ask them if they have Playstation network, Xbox live, or Wii market. These systems have points that can be bought from a local store in the form of a give card, and can save you the embarassment of picking a bad game.
Gamers, don't let glossy ads or propaganda influence the games you buy. Sometimes it pays to wait for a new game to become old, and drop in price. Other times you might just want to read the reviews or buy something cheap off of Live or PSN. Try an indie game; they're usually cheap.
Game designers/producers/marketers; if you think your game isn't up to par, spend more time improving the game rather then the game's showing. We are willing to pay big money in a bad economy for your game; don't let us down, please.
Gaming is an expensive, but rewarding lifestyle. Like any other consumer hobby, it takes commitment and investment. Let's not break the bank with it.
#4: Gamers want to be heard.
It's a common complaint. Gamers want the world to know who they are, and what they want. We all know what is wrong with today's video games; too much action, not enough story, with pricing that will break your bank if left unchecked. Plus we know how most people think of us in the world today.
When a website like Kickstarter offers to fund the games we love, no hesitation is made to put money into that project. Just ask Tim Schafer, who founded Double Fine Adventure. Or the guys who are now working on the OUYA. Both were projects funded not by big-wig investors or publishing companies with huge advertising campaigns; they were funded by people who like to play games donating their hard earned money.
This is also true for the things that big government does that could ruin us/oppress us/piss us off. Remember those Censorship bills SOPA and PIPA? Remember how your favorite sites got shut down because of protest? The gaming community was a HUGE part of that. just ask the guys at extra-credits; they didn't take that BS lying down.
The people have a voice, and with time it will only grow louder. That goes double for the people who love and play games.
Gamers; don't hesitate to call up your local congressman or speak to your teacher about something like the things listed above. A food drive via a Smash-Bros Tournament or a veto of a bill as oppressive as SOPA ad PIPA is only beneficial. The only reason people are reluctant to stand out in these things is the weird "it's just a stupid game" mentality that plagues most of society.
If you do not play games and are hearing things like this for the first time; remember, games are great way to bring people together, and shouldn't be used as an excuse to tear us apart. If your student or child or relative has a great idea or wants to discuss a problem involving his or her favorite game; listen. The world will thank you for it.
#3: Gamers want to be rewarded for their loyalty
There is a reason that hundreds of people camped outside Gamestop to wait for the Modern Warfare 3 midnight release sale; they love Modern Warfare.
People are downright fanatical for the games they love, much in the same way Yankees fans paint rooms of their house in blue and white stripes and why animal lovers adopt their seventh stray cat. Passion is a powerful thing, and thus should be rewarded.
Unfortunately, when most people see someone dressed up like sonic the hedgehog or introduce us to thier MASSIVE "Magic: the gathering" card collection, the usual reaction isn't admiration for loyalty. It's more like "holy sh**, this guy has no life!"
There are many people who take their interests too far; watch an episode of "hoarders" and you can find them in all shapes and sizes. Even something as innocent as loving animals can get way out of control if left unchecked.
Still, loyalty is a trait that should be rewarded; not just because of the investment people put in it, but the dedication it involves to make that investment as well as the courage it takes to admit to a seemingly unusual hobby.
Gamers, particularly of the 'hardcorez' variety; not everyone is as interested in Zelda or Pokemon or DnD as you might be. If someone is showing a lack of interest, show them something else you do. If you aren't sure there is anything else significant about you, ask them what they like. It might be something interesting and new.
If you are on the recieving end of a "Fan boy-ism", please, leave your prejudice at the door and give him or her the benefit of a doubt. Just be wary of signs of addiction; if they seem obsessed, and/or unable to do anything else, consider seeking help. They will appreciate it in the long run. But bear in mind that this is true for any hobby or activity; not all gamers are addicts!
#2: Gamers want you to play with them.
Nothing thrills a game enthusiast more then seeing his child, significant other, loved one, or friend take a genuine interest in the games they play.
This is more for the "non-gamers"; if you see your boyfriend or girlfriend playing World of Warcraft for hours a day, don't give them the old "You never spend time with me!" line. Instead, try playing with them; make a character, get an account, or simply grab another controller and ask him or her to teach you how to play. Might lead to something interesting later...
Same goes for roomates, parents, and kids of gamer parents. Give their games a try before knocking it; you might like it too!
For those of you who would rather see someone play your game, my favorite web show Extra-Credits might have a tip or two for you here.
If you want the short and sweet version, just remember;
Pick a game you know they will like.
Be patient as they learn the rules of the game.
Never forced them to play or not play.
Games are often meant to have fun, and always meant to bring people together!
And now, for the #1 thing most gamers want....(drum roll plea....
Wait, I did this gag already, didn't I?
Oh well, lets move on to the #1 thing that Gamers want.
#1: Gamers do NOT WANT TO BE LABELED GAMERS!!!
When a person watches a film, he is a person watching a film. When a person listens to music, he is a person listening to music. SO WHY IN THE HELL IS A PERSON WHO PLAYS VIDEO GAMES, ROLE PLAYING GAMES, AND CARD GAMES ANY DIFFERENT FROM A PERSON WHO JUST PLAYS GAMES?!
.The gap between the obscure nerd who plays electronic games and RPGs in his basement and the everyday man across the street are more narrow then ever, and the gap is only closing.
I said it before and I will say it again; we were all gamers at one point or another.
Here's a little wake up call, America;
if you played Monopoly or Clue,
| your a gamer. |
If you play Farmville on Facebook
or Chess in the park,
you are a gamer.
If you watch and/or play football or basket ball or base ball or any other ball or sport,
you love games of sport and are technically a kind of gamer.
Gamer only means that you like games; that is practically humanity in a nutshell. We all evolved from life forms that learned the hard way how to avoid being eaten by predators and the best ways to find food and build tools; we did this through experimenting, and experimented with games.
If you play games, don't let people call you a gamer. Your a human being, like the rest of us.
If you do not play games(which can only mean a very few of you), don't call me or any one else who plays video games or anything else you might not have seen or heard of often enough a gamer. They are just like you. Only difference that somewhere in their childhood, they didn't quit playing games because an adult said so. To be frank, you might wanna reconsider that decision yourself every once in a while.
We are not childish for playing or prudish for not playing: games are just another form of the humanities that express who we are and explore it.
 |
| Let use embrace with our hearts what is the game. We are only better people for it. |
Oops, almost forgot: here is a very special Seven Word Synopsis on what gamers want.
Accept us
Understand us
Play with us
That's it in a nutshell; tomorrow we will review a game called SPEC OPS: The Line. It's not fun in the traditional sense, but you might like it anyway. See you then!
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