Okay, maybe "almighty" is something of an overstatement, but I sure am digging this little piece of technology. I'll be the first to admit that the iPhone was purely an impulse purchase for me, a toy. Joyce's daughter, Shannon, got one and was showing it off to me at a Sens game a couple of weeks ago. I already had a 2004 model Samsung camera phone that I rarely used as I simply have little need for a mobile phone. Being self-employed now, I rationalized the purchase based on being more accessible at work, pretty weak justification at best.
Anyway, one week to the day after buying the thing, I feel like I could hardly live without it. It's never far from my side, and I've only made/received a couple of phone calls so far. And therein lies the beauty. The iPhone is a prime example of how technology is converging. It's a phone, a camera, a video recorder, an internet access and email tool, a GPS, a music and video player, and much more. Does it replace the need for dedicated devices for those purposes? Of course not. But it does put a whole lot of functionality in your shirt pocket.
As might be expected from Apple, the interface is very intuitive, so you're up and running in no time. And if you have trouble figuring something out on your own, help is only a couple of taps away. The only thing I haven't quite sorted out yet is responding to forwarded emails, but I suspect that has something to do with SMTP settings. I also should have been a little more aware when synching, as I inadvertently sucked down over six years worth of email contacts. Yikes! Battery life is a concern for some (Dave), but so far so good for me. Mine is set to enter sleep mode after 1 min. of inactivity, and I think that probably helps. I suspect the display probably drains a fair bit of juice while active.
I wouldn't have expected going in that I'd be interested in many apps, but I've been very pleasantly surprised by what's available. Many of them are free, and most others are very inexpensive. Not only that but they're tiny so they don't take up much memory space, and download lickety-split. I debated about springing the extra $100 for the 32GB model but, for now, I'm glad I stuck with the 16GB. My music collection is larger than 32GB anyway, and that's what the iPod is for (though I have no love for iTunes, but that's another blog).
And speaking of music, a shout-out to Slacker Radio. Jim's sister, Beth, recommended this dynamite little app that allows you to create personalized radio stations. I know there are similar PC based programs, but this is my first experience with one. Just pick an artist, and Slacker Radio creates a very intelligent playlist around it. I had the iPhone running through the stereo for several hours yesterday, flipping from one custom station to the next. Joyce loved it (she was bouncing around the kitchen!), and I discovered a few cool bands in the process. Apparently, the free subscription to Slacker Radio is only good for 30 days in Canada (no such limitation in the U.S.). Unfortunate as that is, the app is so good that I'll glady pony up the $4 per month to continue it when the time comes.
I'm still undecided over whether the iPhone is a productivity enhancer or a productivity waster. The truth probably falls somewhere in between. Either way, it freakin' rocks!
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Thursday, February 25, 2010
IGN loves The Secret Armory of General Knoxx
IGN scores the latest Borderlands DLC an 8.8:
"If you enjoyed Borderlands and still wanted more, then definitely download The Secret Armory of General Knoxx. The main story line is still a blast even if you go it alone and some of the side quests will challenge the most hardened team of Boarderlands veterans. This is by far the best of the three add-ons for the core game, and the most fun I had since I completed the main game last year."
It's gonna be a while before I dive into this with God Of War II on my plate right now, but it sounds terrific.
"If you enjoyed Borderlands and still wanted more, then definitely download The Secret Armory of General Knoxx. The main story line is still a blast even if you go it alone and some of the side quests will challenge the most hardened team of Boarderlands veterans. This is by far the best of the three add-ons for the core game, and the most fun I had since I completed the main game last year."
It's gonna be a while before I dive into this with God Of War II on my plate right now, but it sounds terrific.
It's a new car!!!
The time has finally come for me to bid adieu to my faithful and much loved 1999 Subaru Legacy GT. Jim may remember the day I got that car. It was Sept. 10th 1999, the day we first met face to face. I picked it up on the way to meet him at the airport. We’ve been through a lot together these last 10 ½ years and it’s going to be tough to let her go. But there should be plenty of life left in her yet, and at least she’s going to a good home…Joyce’s younger daughter Heather and her family, who are VERY excited about finally having wheels.
I’ve been thinking about a replacement vehicle for about a year now, and it was an extremely tough decision. The obvious choice was another Subaru, in this case the Impreza 5 door, but I also really liked the Mazda 3 Sport (I owned a Mazda prior to the Subaru, and loved it). I deliberated between those two models right up until the end. The big attraction of the Subaru was sticking with AWD and a brand that had proven extremely reliable for me. OTOH, I preferred the styling of the Mazda (though the Impreza is no slouch in that dept. either), and found the bells and whistles a little more alluring. In the end, sex appeal won out over utilitarianism, and I opted for a Mazda 3 Sport GT-E. I’m a little apprehensive in moving from a manual to automatic transmission (so Joyce can drive it), but curious about the 5 speed sport mode automatic.
While I’m pretty excited about taking delivery of the Mazda, it’s tempered somewhat by having to say goodbye to the Subaru. At least the old gal is staying in the family.
I’ve been thinking about a replacement vehicle for about a year now, and it was an extremely tough decision. The obvious choice was another Subaru, in this case the Impreza 5 door, but I also really liked the Mazda 3 Sport (I owned a Mazda prior to the Subaru, and loved it). I deliberated between those two models right up until the end. The big attraction of the Subaru was sticking with AWD and a brand that had proven extremely reliable for me. OTOH, I preferred the styling of the Mazda (though the Impreza is no slouch in that dept. either), and found the bells and whistles a little more alluring. In the end, sex appeal won out over utilitarianism, and I opted for a Mazda 3 Sport GT-E. I’m a little apprehensive in moving from a manual to automatic transmission (so Joyce can drive it), but curious about the 5 speed sport mode automatic.
While I’m pretty excited about taking delivery of the Mazda, it’s tempered somewhat by having to say goodbye to the Subaru. At least the old gal is staying in the family.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
God Of War Collection = masterpiece
The original God Of War games (GOW and GOW2) were available exclusively on the Playstation 2. They were quickly hailed as some of the finest action games ever created on any console. I finished the original GOW and made it about halfway through GOW2 (loving every minute of it) when some other big releases came out and got me sidetracked. Sadly I never returned to it. But with Sony releasing both games as the God Of War Collection on the PS3, I have the chance to play both games again and to complete GOW2, this time in HD. The game still has a bit of that old PS2 look; the graphics have simply been updated a bit to HD but they are certainly not an eyesore in the least. The only time the graphics really look sub-par is during the cut scenes. The audio is terrific and most importantly, the spot-on gameplay remains.I am about a quarter way through GOW2 and it is every bit as wonderful as I remembered. The scope of the game is amazing. Some of the sets are bigger and better than anything Hollywood has dreamed up. The story is epic, with Greek mythology coursing through it's veins. I have the strategy guide and it's terrific as well. Not only does it tell you all the little secrets of the game, it gives you full details on all of the Gods and creatures you encounter throughout. It is really well made and adds a lot to the game.
If you have never experienced the God Of War games, I urge you to do so. The GOW collection is a great value, 2 excellent complete games, and long ones at that, at one reduced price. And with God Of War III on the way in March, you may want to find out what the fuss is all about before that game owns your soul.
(Please be advised that these games are purely intended for mature audiences.)
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
New Borderlands DLC out today!
Shacknews.com was the first to report (that I saw, anyway) that the new DLC for Borderlands, The Secret Armory of General Knoxx, would be available today for download for the Xbox 360 (Playstation Network will get the DLC on the 25th). Awesome news! Priced at a reasonable $10, the new DLC is by far the biggest yet. From the press release:
- Almost twice the size of The Zombie Island of Dr. Ned
- A brand new class of ultra-rare/kick-ass weapons
- New vehicles including one that allows for four players to drive and inflict damage and deal out death
- An exciting story line that picks-up where the original game left off
- Almost 30 new villain types
- A level cap increase to 61
- More difficult villains and smarter AI
Monday, February 22, 2010
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Potpourri for $200, Alex!
Life has gotten in the way of blogging over the last few weeks, so it's time for a long overdue update...
We've been trying to catch as much of the Olympics as possible since they started last wekend. It's a real thrill that the're being held in Canada (despite the non winter-like Vancouver weather), and very cool that the entire country is abuzz with pride and excitement over the Games and the performance of our athletes. In the end, and rather unfortunately, it will all come down to the success or failure of the men's hockey team. After an opening game 8-0 romp over Norway, they struggled mightly against a fiesty and determined Swiss team, backstopped by an amazing performance by Jonas Hiller in goal. It will all come down to whether Team Canada's star-studded lineup can develop the chemistry required over the course of a short tournament. They face a very tough test against the U.S. later this afternoon.
In gaming news, Hustle Kings and Borderlands have occupied virtually all of my limited gaming time. I'm over halfway through Borderlands at this point and still enjoying the heck out of it. I'd probably be finished had Hustle Kings not snuck up and stolen so much of my time. I'd like to make a concerted push to complete Borderlands, hopefully after the Olympics.
I also took a sneak peek at Mass Effect 2 last weekend. The visuals are stunning (especially the cut scenes), but the gameplay didn't immediately hook me. Granted, this is only based on about 1.5 hours of play, and I'm not about to render any sort of judgement until I've delved into it much deeper.
We've checked out a bunch of blu-rays over the last few weeks as well. Here's a round-up...
Braveheart
I've always felt that Braveheart is vastly overrated by a certain demographic of film fans. However, it is an exceptionally well crafted piece of work, and hugely entertaining. The DVD video transfer of Braveheart left a lasting impression on me after seeing it several years ago. As good as it was, the blu-ray transfer is simply off the charts in comparison, easily among the most impressive I've seen. The level of detail so apparent in the DVD release is taken to new heights here, and the audio track is no slouch either. If Braveheart sits as part of your permananent film collection, the new Sapphire Series blu-ray is an absolute must-own.
Kung Fu Hustle
A hidden gem of a film. Part traditional Kung Fu, part 30's gangster flick, and part Looney Tunes, Stephen Chow's Kung Fu Hustle must be seen to be believed. The blu-ray improves on the already great DVD release on all counts, but not to the degree that some other titles do. While the picture looks terrific, it falls just short of reference quality. The audio, OTOH, is reference quality. The DTS track on the original DVD was fantastic, but I've never heard side surround imaging as strong and precise as on this very active blu-ray mix. This is surround sound as it's meant to be, folks. I'll be anxiously awaiting the blu-ray release of Shaolin Soccer (which I've yet to see). In the meantime, do yourself a favor and see this film!
Fight Club
Another film whose reputation exceeds itself to some degree. Don't get me wrong, I love me some Fight Club and will always own the latest and greatest version (hence the upgrade to blu-ray). I was expecting to be truly wowed by this BD, and simply wasn't. I can't point to any particular reason why, as both video and sound are solid. Perhaps it's more a case of the special edition DVD being so good in the first place, though I haven't bothered to take the time to compare them directly. Either way, it's tough to to give this one a hearty recommendation as an upgrade.
Leon: The Professional
Luc Besson's Leon, while not a great film, has established itself as a personal favorite. How can you not not love Jean Reno's turn in the title role and the interplay between he and Natalie Portman's Mathilda? I wasn't sure what to expect from this blu-ray going in, but came away very pleasantly surprised. This is a great looking transfer and the audio kicks into high gear when called upon, most notably during the action-packed finale. As a bonus, the disc includes both the theatrical and extended cuts of the film. Highly recommended if you love the film. And if you've never seen it, what are you waiting for?
Kingdom of Heaven
See Braveheart, above. Most of the same comments apply here. KoH certainly has it's detractors, but I'm not one of them. Love it or hate it, there's no denying that blu-ray and Ridley Scott were made for each other. The format is the perfect match for his visual trickery, and this transfer is just about as good as it gets, save for the fact that darker scenes tend to be a little compressed. No complaints about the audio either, it's every bit as powerful as you'd hope. If you're a fan of the film, this one's a no-brainer purchase.
We've been trying to catch as much of the Olympics as possible since they started last wekend. It's a real thrill that the're being held in Canada (despite the non winter-like Vancouver weather), and very cool that the entire country is abuzz with pride and excitement over the Games and the performance of our athletes. In the end, and rather unfortunately, it will all come down to the success or failure of the men's hockey team. After an opening game 8-0 romp over Norway, they struggled mightly against a fiesty and determined Swiss team, backstopped by an amazing performance by Jonas Hiller in goal. It will all come down to whether Team Canada's star-studded lineup can develop the chemistry required over the course of a short tournament. They face a very tough test against the U.S. later this afternoon.
In gaming news, Hustle Kings and Borderlands have occupied virtually all of my limited gaming time. I'm over halfway through Borderlands at this point and still enjoying the heck out of it. I'd probably be finished had Hustle Kings not snuck up and stolen so much of my time. I'd like to make a concerted push to complete Borderlands, hopefully after the Olympics.
I also took a sneak peek at Mass Effect 2 last weekend. The visuals are stunning (especially the cut scenes), but the gameplay didn't immediately hook me. Granted, this is only based on about 1.5 hours of play, and I'm not about to render any sort of judgement until I've delved into it much deeper.
We've checked out a bunch of blu-rays over the last few weeks as well. Here's a round-up...
Braveheart
I've always felt that Braveheart is vastly overrated by a certain demographic of film fans. However, it is an exceptionally well crafted piece of work, and hugely entertaining. The DVD video transfer of Braveheart left a lasting impression on me after seeing it several years ago. As good as it was, the blu-ray transfer is simply off the charts in comparison, easily among the most impressive I've seen. The level of detail so apparent in the DVD release is taken to new heights here, and the audio track is no slouch either. If Braveheart sits as part of your permananent film collection, the new Sapphire Series blu-ray is an absolute must-own.
Kung Fu Hustle
A hidden gem of a film. Part traditional Kung Fu, part 30's gangster flick, and part Looney Tunes, Stephen Chow's Kung Fu Hustle must be seen to be believed. The blu-ray improves on the already great DVD release on all counts, but not to the degree that some other titles do. While the picture looks terrific, it falls just short of reference quality. The audio, OTOH, is reference quality. The DTS track on the original DVD was fantastic, but I've never heard side surround imaging as strong and precise as on this very active blu-ray mix. This is surround sound as it's meant to be, folks. I'll be anxiously awaiting the blu-ray release of Shaolin Soccer (which I've yet to see). In the meantime, do yourself a favor and see this film!
Fight Club
Another film whose reputation exceeds itself to some degree. Don't get me wrong, I love me some Fight Club and will always own the latest and greatest version (hence the upgrade to blu-ray). I was expecting to be truly wowed by this BD, and simply wasn't. I can't point to any particular reason why, as both video and sound are solid. Perhaps it's more a case of the special edition DVD being so good in the first place, though I haven't bothered to take the time to compare them directly. Either way, it's tough to to give this one a hearty recommendation as an upgrade.
Leon: The Professional
Luc Besson's Leon, while not a great film, has established itself as a personal favorite. How can you not not love Jean Reno's turn in the title role and the interplay between he and Natalie Portman's Mathilda? I wasn't sure what to expect from this blu-ray going in, but came away very pleasantly surprised. This is a great looking transfer and the audio kicks into high gear when called upon, most notably during the action-packed finale. As a bonus, the disc includes both the theatrical and extended cuts of the film. Highly recommended if you love the film. And if you've never seen it, what are you waiting for?
Kingdom of Heaven
See Braveheart, above. Most of the same comments apply here. KoH certainly has it's detractors, but I'm not one of them. Love it or hate it, there's no denying that blu-ray and Ridley Scott were made for each other. The format is the perfect match for his visual trickery, and this transfer is just about as good as it gets, save for the fact that darker scenes tend to be a little compressed. No complaints about the audio either, it's every bit as powerful as you'd hope. If you're a fan of the film, this one's a no-brainer purchase.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
What I've been watching
Barb and I have really gotten into the Showtime series Dexter. I had always heard really good things about it and have wanted to check it out for a while. Since we joined Netflix and can get stuff instantly through our membership, we started Dexter a couple of weeks ago. We finished season 1 earlier this week and have already gotten more than halfway through season 2. We love it!
Season 1 was a beautifully self-contained story that explained everything perfectly and had some real surprises towards the end. Season 2 is expanding Dexter as a character, giving him much more depth. The acting is terrific (Michael C. Hall is perfect as Dexter) and the writing, while stretching credibility at times, is clever and sets a perfect tone for the series. We're looking very forward to seeing where the series goes from here.
I had also heard good things about a small independent film called Big Fan starring comedian Patton Oswalt. It's not really a comedy but a look at a loser named Paul that is a "big fan" of the New York Giants football team, completely obsessed with them at the expense of everything else. He lives at home with his mother, can't afford to actually attend the games and lives for making late night calls to an a sports radio station in New York where he has a running battle going on with a Philadelphia Eagles fan. One night he and his friend see their favorite player out on the town and decide to follow him to a club. Things don't go as planned and Paul's hero ends up viciously assaulting him. The player is suspended and the Giants' fortunes begin to suffer. Paul's family wants him to sue the player while the cops want to put the guy away. Paul wants the whole thing to blow over so that the Giants can start winning again. And the Philadelphia Eagles' fan on the radio finds out about the incident and begins taunting Paul about it over the air. It's a perfect storm gathering in this little guy's life. What will happen when it all becomes too much?
I thought the movie was pretty good, maybe a 7 on a 10 scale, but make no mistake, it's a minor movie. Oswalt was absolutely perfect in a serious role. I have always thought the guy was talented and had something like this in him; it's nice to see him get a chance to let it show. The supporting cast was splendid as well. I would not recommend actively seeking this movie out, but if you come across it someday, it may be worth paying attention to.
Finally, with a little extra time on my hands last night, I was flipping through Netflix for something to watch and I came across an iconic movie from the 70's that I had heard a lot about but had never actually seen before. I am talking about Eraserhead, baby! So I decided to go ahead and experience it for myself, knowing that this was something that Barb would probably not get into. It met my expectations, which is to say it didn't make much sense but was full of great visuals and was sufficiently freaky that I felt sorry for all those folks who watched it while tripping on acid in the 70's. I wonder if most of them ever recovered.
I'll tell the story as much as I can but I won't try to explain it, because to try to make sense of it would a waste of time. Let's just say there's this strange guy that works as a printer. He is on vacation. He apparently lives in an industrial city that is nearly abandoned, because we hardly ever see anyone outside on the streets; there are no incidental characters. Now this guy, Henry Spencer, has a girlfriend that he has apparently gotten pregnant, though he seems to be unaware of that. He is invited to her house for dinner where he meets her incredibly strange family and is told by the mother (after she licks his face in a fit of passion) about the baby. He then is told he must marry the girlfriend (Mary) and move her and the baby into his apartment.
Let's cut the to chase and say that the baby is some sort of mutant. It doesn't resemble a human at all. It's head looks like a cross between a horse and some kind of dinosaur and it's body is long and thin. Still, it is oddly endearing. Whoever did the special effects did a bang-up job because the way the eyes and mouth move make the creature seem alive. Anyway, the "baby" cries all the time, which makes the already insane Mary even more crazy. She leaves to go back to her parents. Now Henry is left alone to cope with the baby. When the baby gets sicks, he tries to nurse it back to health but it doesn't seem to work. Henry is trapped in his grotesque room with nothing to do but hallucinate and/or go insane. He sees a tiny woman behind his radiator who sings and dances and tells him of better days to come. He dreams of an affair with his neighbor across the hall. He sees all sort of appalling visions, such as sperm-like creatures that writhe across the floor. Then he wakes up. And he kills his baby. Or does he?
Eraserhead got director David Lynch established and well on his way to a career built on movies like this, focusing on the surreal where real life and dreams and insanity constantly blend. Back when it was made it was known as a "mindblowing" experience and if you can let yourself go a bit, it is still a compelling ride. Strange, twisted, and at time repulsive, but compelling all the same.
Season 1 was a beautifully self-contained story that explained everything perfectly and had some real surprises towards the end. Season 2 is expanding Dexter as a character, giving him much more depth. The acting is terrific (Michael C. Hall is perfect as Dexter) and the writing, while stretching credibility at times, is clever and sets a perfect tone for the series. We're looking very forward to seeing where the series goes from here.
I had also heard good things about a small independent film called Big Fan starring comedian Patton Oswalt. It's not really a comedy but a look at a loser named Paul that is a "big fan" of the New York Giants football team, completely obsessed with them at the expense of everything else. He lives at home with his mother, can't afford to actually attend the games and lives for making late night calls to an a sports radio station in New York where he has a running battle going on with a Philadelphia Eagles fan. One night he and his friend see their favorite player out on the town and decide to follow him to a club. Things don't go as planned and Paul's hero ends up viciously assaulting him. The player is suspended and the Giants' fortunes begin to suffer. Paul's family wants him to sue the player while the cops want to put the guy away. Paul wants the whole thing to blow over so that the Giants can start winning again. And the Philadelphia Eagles' fan on the radio finds out about the incident and begins taunting Paul about it over the air. It's a perfect storm gathering in this little guy's life. What will happen when it all becomes too much?
I thought the movie was pretty good, maybe a 7 on a 10 scale, but make no mistake, it's a minor movie. Oswalt was absolutely perfect in a serious role. I have always thought the guy was talented and had something like this in him; it's nice to see him get a chance to let it show. The supporting cast was splendid as well. I would not recommend actively seeking this movie out, but if you come across it someday, it may be worth paying attention to.
Finally, with a little extra time on my hands last night, I was flipping through Netflix for something to watch and I came across an iconic movie from the 70's that I had heard a lot about but had never actually seen before. I am talking about Eraserhead, baby! So I decided to go ahead and experience it for myself, knowing that this was something that Barb would probably not get into. It met my expectations, which is to say it didn't make much sense but was full of great visuals and was sufficiently freaky that I felt sorry for all those folks who watched it while tripping on acid in the 70's. I wonder if most of them ever recovered.
I'll tell the story as much as I can but I won't try to explain it, because to try to make sense of it would a waste of time. Let's just say there's this strange guy that works as a printer. He is on vacation. He apparently lives in an industrial city that is nearly abandoned, because we hardly ever see anyone outside on the streets; there are no incidental characters. Now this guy, Henry Spencer, has a girlfriend that he has apparently gotten pregnant, though he seems to be unaware of that. He is invited to her house for dinner where he meets her incredibly strange family and is told by the mother (after she licks his face in a fit of passion) about the baby. He then is told he must marry the girlfriend (Mary) and move her and the baby into his apartment.
Let's cut the to chase and say that the baby is some sort of mutant. It doesn't resemble a human at all. It's head looks like a cross between a horse and some kind of dinosaur and it's body is long and thin. Still, it is oddly endearing. Whoever did the special effects did a bang-up job because the way the eyes and mouth move make the creature seem alive. Anyway, the "baby" cries all the time, which makes the already insane Mary even more crazy. She leaves to go back to her parents. Now Henry is left alone to cope with the baby. When the baby gets sicks, he tries to nurse it back to health but it doesn't seem to work. Henry is trapped in his grotesque room with nothing to do but hallucinate and/or go insane. He sees a tiny woman behind his radiator who sings and dances and tells him of better days to come. He dreams of an affair with his neighbor across the hall. He sees all sort of appalling visions, such as sperm-like creatures that writhe across the floor. Then he wakes up. And he kills his baby. Or does he?
Eraserhead got director David Lynch established and well on his way to a career built on movies like this, focusing on the surreal where real life and dreams and insanity constantly blend. Back when it was made it was known as a "mindblowing" experience and if you can let yourself go a bit, it is still a compelling ride. Strange, twisted, and at time repulsive, but compelling all the same.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Bioshock 2 - final thoughts
I finished up Bioshock 2 the other night and I must say that my initial impressions held throughout the rest of the game. In the end, Bioshock 2 simply had no chance to have the same sort of impact as the original. The first Bioshock was video gaming as an art form, creating an atmosphere unlike any other game before it. Once that sense of wonder and awe was uncovered, there was no way a 2nd act could have the same sort of impact. Bioshock's game play was very solid and the sequel builds on that and even improves it in some ways. The story is well told and makes you care about the outcome. The graphics and voice acting are superb. I have not a single complaint about the quality level of this game. It's just that in the end, it is basically Bioshock redux without the sense of awe. And that definitely matters.
On a scale of 1-10, I'd rate Bioshock 2 around an 8.8. Definitely worth playing, just don't expect to have that same sort of original Bioshock experience all over again.
On a scale of 1-10, I'd rate Bioshock 2 around an 8.8. Definitely worth playing, just don't expect to have that same sort of original Bioshock experience all over again.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!
Happy Valentine's Day to my beautiful wife Barb and my lovely daughters Jessica and Laurel. And, of course, my Mom and sister Beth.
I love you with all of my heart!
Guys, be good to your ladies today and every day.
Bioshock 2 impressions
I have put 6-7 hours into Bioshock 2 and have played enough to have a definite take on the the game thus far. My initial, first impression is that it was overly familiar. It didn't seem different enough from the original Bioshock. It seemed more like Bioshock 1.5. Now in my opinion, the original Bioshock is one of the all time great games, so that's not exactly a rip-job when I say it is familiar to the first game. But part of the charm of the first game was the wonder and awe of seeing Rapture for the 1st time. It was a mind-blowing experience to see the undersea world, along with the 50's era decor and the terrific soundtrack. The atmosphere in the game was something that was staggering and also staggeringly new. Bioshock 2 has the same terrific atmosphere, but alas, it is no longer new. Rapture is still a glory to behold; the new areas are spectacular and you even get to go outside for some oceanic exploration. But the initial jolt you felt from the first game, that freshness, is gone no matter how brilliantly this game recreates Rapture.
I was really disappointed to hear that you played as a "Big Daddy" in the sequel, but I am happy to announce that the control is almost the exact same as in the 1st game. You don't feel like a huge lumbering giant as you make your way through the game, you basically have the same movement as in the original Bioshock. Except now you have a huge drill on the end of your right hand. And it's nasty on the enemies.
Speaking of the enemies, the splicers are back in full force. They are a little tougher and smarter this time around and there are a few new variations. But the real bad-asses are the Big Sisters, who stalks you when you save little sisters. The Big Sisters are very formidable. They are as tough (or tougher) than a Big Daddy but are also lightning fast. And once one sets upon you, it will not stop until one of you is dead. I have yet to decide if these parts of the game are thrilling or a pain in the ass. Maybe a bit of both.
You still get to use Plasmids and upgrade weapons as in the first game. The weapons have some new additions, such as a rivet gun and a spear gun. There are new Plasmids to choose from as well and deciding which ones to use and which ones to ignore is one of the more intriguing aspects of the game. Decision making becomes very important as you make your way through the game and the enemies get harder and harder.
The story is (so far) intriguing and well-told. Once again you discover recordings throughout the game which fill you in on the details of what has happened in Rapture. I am eager to see what the future has in store for me and the little sisters.
Bioshock 2 is extremely well made. What it suffers for in lack of originality it works very hard to make up for in production values. They are first-rate all the way. I'll have final thoughts on Bioshock 2 as well as a tentative grade for it when I complete the game.
I was really disappointed to hear that you played as a "Big Daddy" in the sequel, but I am happy to announce that the control is almost the exact same as in the 1st game. You don't feel like a huge lumbering giant as you make your way through the game, you basically have the same movement as in the original Bioshock. Except now you have a huge drill on the end of your right hand. And it's nasty on the enemies.
Speaking of the enemies, the splicers are back in full force. They are a little tougher and smarter this time around and there are a few new variations. But the real bad-asses are the Big Sisters, who stalks you when you save little sisters. The Big Sisters are very formidable. They are as tough (or tougher) than a Big Daddy but are also lightning fast. And once one sets upon you, it will not stop until one of you is dead. I have yet to decide if these parts of the game are thrilling or a pain in the ass. Maybe a bit of both.
You still get to use Plasmids and upgrade weapons as in the first game. The weapons have some new additions, such as a rivet gun and a spear gun. There are new Plasmids to choose from as well and deciding which ones to use and which ones to ignore is one of the more intriguing aspects of the game. Decision making becomes very important as you make your way through the game and the enemies get harder and harder.
The story is (so far) intriguing and well-told. Once again you discover recordings throughout the game which fill you in on the details of what has happened in Rapture. I am eager to see what the future has in store for me and the little sisters.
Bioshock 2 is extremely well made. What it suffers for in lack of originality it works very hard to make up for in production values. They are first-rate all the way. I'll have final thoughts on Bioshock 2 as well as a tentative grade for it when I complete the game.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Sens Land Cullen
The Senators acquired C Matt Cullen from the Carolina Hurricanes yesterday in exchange for D Alex Picard and their 2nd round draft pick this year. They also placed F Jonathan Cheechoo on waivers. He cleared today and was assigned to the Binghamton Senators of the AHL.
Cullen's 40 points in 60 games will provide a huge upgrade on Cheechoo's 5 goal 9 assist output, and add to the Senators already deep forward corps. He brings speed, versatility and scoring touch, and should provide a healthy boost to the team's 30th ranked PP. By all accounts, Cheechoo is a class guy and great teammate, but it's clear his best days are long behind him. He also carries a hefty $3.0M price tag this year and next. The additional cap space offsets Cullen's salary this year, and can be used towards re-upping UFA D Anton Volchenkov next year.
Alex Picard will not be missed. He has decent raw ability but seems to lack the hockey IQ to go with it. His roster spot will easily be filled by former first rounder Brian Lee for the next couple of games until Erik Karlsson returns from injury after the Olympic break.
I'm marginally surprised that Bryan Murray is loading up for the playoffs, but it's hard to argue as the Sens have won 13 of their last 14 and knocked off all of the top dogs in the Eastern Conference along the way (including a crazy 6-5 regulation win over the Caps on Thurs. night). If the team is serious about taking a run, Murray will probably look to add a top 4 D by the Mar. 3rd trade deadline. The way Cory Clouston has this team playing, they could make some noise in the playoffs provided they continue to get solid goaltending from Brian Elliott (or Pascal Leclaire). However, that could prove to be a pretty big 'if'.
Cullen's 40 points in 60 games will provide a huge upgrade on Cheechoo's 5 goal 9 assist output, and add to the Senators already deep forward corps. He brings speed, versatility and scoring touch, and should provide a healthy boost to the team's 30th ranked PP. By all accounts, Cheechoo is a class guy and great teammate, but it's clear his best days are long behind him. He also carries a hefty $3.0M price tag this year and next. The additional cap space offsets Cullen's salary this year, and can be used towards re-upping UFA D Anton Volchenkov next year.
Alex Picard will not be missed. He has decent raw ability but seems to lack the hockey IQ to go with it. His roster spot will easily be filled by former first rounder Brian Lee for the next couple of games until Erik Karlsson returns from injury after the Olympic break.
I'm marginally surprised that Bryan Murray is loading up for the playoffs, but it's hard to argue as the Sens have won 13 of their last 14 and knocked off all of the top dogs in the Eastern Conference along the way (including a crazy 6-5 regulation win over the Caps on Thurs. night). If the team is serious about taking a run, Murray will probably look to add a top 4 D by the Mar. 3rd trade deadline. The way Cory Clouston has this team playing, they could make some noise in the playoffs provided they continue to get solid goaltending from Brian Elliott (or Pascal Leclaire). However, that could prove to be a pretty big 'if'.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Finished Darksiders
A solid action title with some fiendish puzzles. Some RPG-lite elements included in the game, including decisions on what power-ups to emphasize as you proceed through the game. I must confess I would have never been able to figure out some of the puzzles without the use of an FAQ. The game was quite lengthy for an action title, a good 18-20 hours altogether.
So all in all, it was a fun game that gives you plenty of bang for your buck. The game is nothing revolutionary by any means, but it delivers solid action. If I was to rate Darksiders on a scale of 1-10, it would be somewhere around an 8.
Now on to Bioshock 2...
So all in all, it was a fun game that gives you plenty of bang for your buck. The game is nothing revolutionary by any means, but it delivers solid action. If I was to rate Darksiders on a scale of 1-10, it would be somewhere around an 8.
Now on to Bioshock 2...
Thursday, February 11, 2010
New owner for the St. Louis Rams?
According the the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, the Rosenbloom family, current owners of the St. Louis Rams, have reached an agreement to sell the team to Illinois businessmen Shahid Khan. Mr. Khan has agreed to buy the Rosenbloom's 60% share of the team and, if need be, the remaining 40% of the team from minority owner from Stan Kroenke. All that remains is for the sale to be finalized and for Mr. Khan to be approved by 75% of the NFL owners. Mr. Khan has made his money in the auto parts manufacturing business and his company is reported to have revenue of over $2 billion annually.
This is potentially wonderful news as Mr. Khan is said to be a Rams fan who has attended quite a few games and, more importantly, is committed to keeping the team in St. Louis. There remains the issue of the stadium; the Rams' dome is becoming more outdated by the minute, even though it is only 15 years old. There is an escape clause in the lease that says the lease can be voided if the stadium is not among the top 25% of the NFL's stadiums in 2015. It is already in the bottom half of the stadiums and it is doubtful any sort of face lift could improve it enough. But it is thought that the Rosenblooms have received assurances from Mr. Khan that he is willing to work through the issue. The Rosenblooms were emphatic that they wanted to sell to an owner that was intent on keeping the team in St. Louis for the long haul and it looks like they were true to their word. St. Louis fans should be very grateful to them and, it appears, to Mr. Khan.
Post-Dispatch columnist Bernie Miklasz, one of the best sports columnists in the country, has been following this story for a long time and he broke the news today. For more of his thoughts, check out his blog here. Serious kudos to Mr. Miklasz for his fine work.
This is potentially wonderful news as Mr. Khan is said to be a Rams fan who has attended quite a few games and, more importantly, is committed to keeping the team in St. Louis. There remains the issue of the stadium; the Rams' dome is becoming more outdated by the minute, even though it is only 15 years old. There is an escape clause in the lease that says the lease can be voided if the stadium is not among the top 25% of the NFL's stadiums in 2015. It is already in the bottom half of the stadiums and it is doubtful any sort of face lift could improve it enough. But it is thought that the Rosenblooms have received assurances from Mr. Khan that he is willing to work through the issue. The Rosenblooms were emphatic that they wanted to sell to an owner that was intent on keeping the team in St. Louis for the long haul and it looks like they were true to their word. St. Louis fans should be very grateful to them and, it appears, to Mr. Khan.
Post-Dispatch columnist Bernie Miklasz, one of the best sports columnists in the country, has been following this story for a long time and he broke the news today. For more of his thoughts, check out his blog here. Serious kudos to Mr. Miklasz for his fine work.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Bioshock 2 - delay of game
I have decided that before I dive into Bioshock 2 that I am going to finish Darksiders, otherwise I may never get back to it. I want to give Bioshock 2 uninterrupted attention and I want to be able to not have any unfinished business that might make me rush through it a bit. With Dante's Inferno getting such mediocre reviews, Darksiders will fill my action-game needs for the time being. I have already gone back and gotten past the part where my last game was stuck. I must issue a mea culpa here; it appears as though the game itself did not have any sort of glitch. My brain, however, apparently did. After a bit of a layoff, I was confused on what I had and had not completed. I went back and replayed the entire area again and did some things I missed before.
I have no idea how much further I have to go but it shouldn't be too much longer. Then Bioshock 2 will get the attention it deserves. After that I will either re-attempt to get into Dragon Age: Origins (Mass Effect 2 has convinced me to try it again) or perhaps the latest DLC for Borderlands will be available.
I have no idea how much further I have to go but it shouldn't be too much longer. Then Bioshock 2 will get the attention it deserves. After that I will either re-attempt to get into Dragon Age: Origins (Mass Effect 2 has convinced me to try it again) or perhaps the latest DLC for Borderlands will be available.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Our darling Jessica
Jessica, we are so proud of the young lady you have become. It has been a true pleasure watching your grow and mature. Your sweet nature always shines through. We are so blessed to have you as our daughter and of course you are such a wonderful big sister! Many more happy, happy birthdays Sweetheart!
Monday, February 8, 2010
Cool Pool
I’ve always had a place in my gaming library for arcade titles, puzzlers, bowling and pinball games, and so on – “small” games that are nothing fancy but deliver solid and engrossing gameplay. So with that in mind, I took a flyer and downloaded Hustle Kings, the latest pool offering for the PS3. There wasn’t much to be found online about HK, but what was there sounded good. I couldn’t be more pleased that I took the plunge.
The first thing that grabs you about Hustle Kings is that it is surprisingly deep in terms of gameplay options. For starters, there are several variations of pool on tap including 8 Ball, 9 Ball, Cutthroat and Black Ball (but, sadly, no Snooker). The basics are supplemented by “bonus games” like Clear the Table, Beat the Clock, and a variety of Trick Shots. The meat of the game, which can be played on or offline, lies in the Career and Tournament modes (though there are others). “Career” mode in the context of HK is a bit of a misnomer though and would more appropriately be labeled “Challenge”. Starting at Rookie level and progressing through the ranks, you’re presented with a series of about 10 events. Completing an event (e.g. winning a game of 8 Ball) unlocks other events in the same or higher class, along with other perks. The disappointing aspect of Career mode is that there are no player rankings, and no progression aside from moving up from one level to the next. Tournament mode is just as the name implies – choose your game in a single knockout event against up to 15 opponents. Again, it’s too bad that the tournaments weren’t linked to some form of true career progression. In all modes, money is earned for completing shots and events, and winning tournaments. Your winnings can be used to buy goodies, or wagered in certain events and against online opponents.
While Hustle Kings provides lots to keep you busy, it wouldn’t matter a lick if the gameplay weren’t up to snuff. Luckily, this is where HK really shines. The game features a very good training mode that will have you up and running in no time, but improvement requires a little time and effort. And this is a good thing, IMO, as there’s no breezing through difficulty levels, even Rookie. I’ll never be mistaken for a pool shark but I did spend many an hour shooting stick during my misspent youth, and HK is about as accurate a simulation as you’re ever likely to find. The control mechanics are intuitive but also deep enough to reward players that have a good understanding of the game of pool. Ball physics are dead on and everything can be adjusted. Aim, cue angle, ball spin, and shot power all make a difference, and each variable has to be taken into consideration for consistent shot making. Even drawing back and following through with the cue needs to be smooth or you’ll hear that annoying clack that signals an imprecise shot, just like the real deal. It’s important to keep your cue well chalked too, which is accomplished by shaking the controller. The only niggle I have gameplay-wise is that the fine tune control used to help line up shots should be far less sensitive. Oh yeah, and WTF is up with having to purchase special attribute chalk from the Playstation Store??? That’s the kind of thing you should be able to buy with in game currency.
Graphically, HK is a treat. The environments are extremely nice, but it’s the balls and tables that are the real stars of the show. Rendered in high definition with superb lighting effects, the oft overused ‘photo-realistic’ truly applies here. But beyond anything else, Hustle Kings is stupidly addictive. It has that “just one more” quality in spades, as evidenced by the fact that it has kept me away from Borderlands and my unopened copy of Mass Effect 2 since I downloaded it 48 hours ago. The entertainment value that HK brings to the table far exceeds its modest $9.99 price tag, making it a must purchase for anyone with even a passing fancy for pool. Rack ‘em and pass the chalk!
The first thing that grabs you about Hustle Kings is that it is surprisingly deep in terms of gameplay options. For starters, there are several variations of pool on tap including 8 Ball, 9 Ball, Cutthroat and Black Ball (but, sadly, no Snooker). The basics are supplemented by “bonus games” like Clear the Table, Beat the Clock, and a variety of Trick Shots. The meat of the game, which can be played on or offline, lies in the Career and Tournament modes (though there are others). “Career” mode in the context of HK is a bit of a misnomer though and would more appropriately be labeled “Challenge”. Starting at Rookie level and progressing through the ranks, you’re presented with a series of about 10 events. Completing an event (e.g. winning a game of 8 Ball) unlocks other events in the same or higher class, along with other perks. The disappointing aspect of Career mode is that there are no player rankings, and no progression aside from moving up from one level to the next. Tournament mode is just as the name implies – choose your game in a single knockout event against up to 15 opponents. Again, it’s too bad that the tournaments weren’t linked to some form of true career progression. In all modes, money is earned for completing shots and events, and winning tournaments. Your winnings can be used to buy goodies, or wagered in certain events and against online opponents.
While Hustle Kings provides lots to keep you busy, it wouldn’t matter a lick if the gameplay weren’t up to snuff. Luckily, this is where HK really shines. The game features a very good training mode that will have you up and running in no time, but improvement requires a little time and effort. And this is a good thing, IMO, as there’s no breezing through difficulty levels, even Rookie. I’ll never be mistaken for a pool shark but I did spend many an hour shooting stick during my misspent youth, and HK is about as accurate a simulation as you’re ever likely to find. The control mechanics are intuitive but also deep enough to reward players that have a good understanding of the game of pool. Ball physics are dead on and everything can be adjusted. Aim, cue angle, ball spin, and shot power all make a difference, and each variable has to be taken into consideration for consistent shot making. Even drawing back and following through with the cue needs to be smooth or you’ll hear that annoying clack that signals an imprecise shot, just like the real deal. It’s important to keep your cue well chalked too, which is accomplished by shaking the controller. The only niggle I have gameplay-wise is that the fine tune control used to help line up shots should be far less sensitive. Oh yeah, and WTF is up with having to purchase special attribute chalk from the Playstation Store??? That’s the kind of thing you should be able to buy with in game currency.
Graphically, HK is a treat. The environments are extremely nice, but it’s the balls and tables that are the real stars of the show. Rendered in high definition with superb lighting effects, the oft overused ‘photo-realistic’ truly applies here. But beyond anything else, Hustle Kings is stupidly addictive. It has that “just one more” quality in spades, as evidenced by the fact that it has kept me away from Borderlands and my unopened copy of Mass Effect 2 since I downloaded it 48 hours ago. The entertainment value that HK brings to the table far exceeds its modest $9.99 price tag, making it a must purchase for anyone with even a passing fancy for pool. Rack ‘em and pass the chalk!
Bioshock 2, Dante's Inferno reviews coming in
Bioshock 2 reviews have been making their way online for the last couple of days. I have already read reviews from Official Xbox Magazine (9.5 out of 10) and Playstation Magazine (5 out of 5 stars). The online reviews have had nearly universal high scores as well. This is very reassuring as I myself was a bit skeptical that 2K Games could pull off a successful sequel. It appears as though they have done so, even if the scores aren't quite what they were for the splendid original game. IGN gave the game a 9.1 and you can read the review here. They also have a video review, but I have been avoiding such reviews in order to stay away from spoilers. Weather permitting, Bioshock 2 is due to be delivered to my doorstep sometime tomorrow. I'll have initial impressions once I can spend some time with it.
Another game I have been looking forward to is Dante's Inferno. While some reviews have said that it is an enjoyable God Of War clone, others have not been so kind. GameSpot really blasted it, causing me to seriously reconsider picking it up. A couple of gamers I know are currently playing it so I am going to wait for their thoughts as well. At this point, I can't see Dante's Inferno being any more than a rental.
Another game I have been looking forward to is Dante's Inferno. While some reviews have said that it is an enjoyable God Of War clone, others have not been so kind. GameSpot really blasted it, causing me to seriously reconsider picking it up. A couple of gamers I know are currently playing it so I am going to wait for their thoughts as well. At this point, I can't see Dante's Inferno being any more than a rental.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Super Bowl thoughts
Very happy to be wrong in my prediction. When the Colts took a 10-0 lead I was afraid the Saints, in their 1st Super Bowl, might wilt under the pressure. Instead, they took a cue from their head coach Sean Payton and raised the intensity. Payton called a very aggressive game plan, including a terrific onside kick call to open the 2nd half and the Saints seemed to gain confidence. They outscored the Colts 31-7 after falling behind by 10 to win their first Super Bowl championship.
Drew Brees was sensational in winning the MVP honors. On the other hand, I can't imagine how devastated Peyton Manning is after throwing a game breaking interception with just over 2 minutes to play. He is one of the most intense competitors around and I am sure he is just sick. I definitely sensed an enormous amount of confidence in the Colts heading into the game but perhaps they were overconfident.
I am very happy for the city of New Orleans and for long suffering Saints fans. I became a low-key fan of the Saints myself when Jim Mora became their coach back in the mid 80's. They played a conservative game of football on offense but their defense was tremendous with a terrific set of undersized linebackers. Even after Mora left I have always had a soft spot for the perennial doormats of the league. Now they are on top and I can't imagine the party they are having in New Orleans right now. Congrats, New Orleans!
Edit - It also bears mentioning that in the post season, the Saints had to beat 3 quarterbacks - Kurt Warner, Brett Favre and Peyton Manning - who will all end up in the Hall Of Fame. That's a heck of an accomplishment. No easy games there.
Drew Brees was sensational in winning the MVP honors. On the other hand, I can't imagine how devastated Peyton Manning is after throwing a game breaking interception with just over 2 minutes to play. He is one of the most intense competitors around and I am sure he is just sick. I definitely sensed an enormous amount of confidence in the Colts heading into the game but perhaps they were overconfident.
I am very happy for the city of New Orleans and for long suffering Saints fans. I became a low-key fan of the Saints myself when Jim Mora became their coach back in the mid 80's. They played a conservative game of football on offense but their defense was tremendous with a terrific set of undersized linebackers. Even after Mora left I have always had a soft spot for the perennial doormats of the league. Now they are on top and I can't imagine the party they are having in New Orleans right now. Congrats, New Orleans!
Edit - It also bears mentioning that in the post season, the Saints had to beat 3 quarterbacks - Kurt Warner, Brett Favre and Peyton Manning - who will all end up in the Hall Of Fame. That's a heck of an accomplishment. No easy games there.
Super Bowl prediction
Everyone else is giving it a go, so why not me?
I'll say Colts 38, Saints 24. But I am hoping that the Saints can pull it off.
I'll say Colts 38, Saints 24. But I am hoping that the Saints can pull it off.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Mass Effect 2 review
After a marathon session last night (and early this morning), I somewhat surprisingly finished Mass Effect 2. I say surprisingly because I did not realize how close I was to the end of the game. I would almost say that the game is too short unless you are like me and try to tackle every single mission. If you do that, then the length is fine. I won't get too much into the plot of the game or the game play. What I will do is address what I liked and what I didn't like so much about the game.
As with the first Mass Effect game, the characters are top-notch. They really are the highlight of the game. Getting to meet your ship mates, recruiting others for your mission and assisting them in personal matters is where the game really shines. Only a couple of characters from the first game return for duty here, though there are some nice cameos throughout. The conversations to be had with your ship mates can be quite revealing as well as compelling. As in the first game, your character has a chance at romance with several of your team members. In the first game I found myself shunning the attractive human woman because it turned out she was quite xenophobic. I had a sweet romance with a female alien instead. In Mass Effect 2, I surprised myself with the direction my heart took me once again.
The real-time battles in ME2 are fantastic. You can use conventional weapons as well as tech weapons and "bio" weapons. Some of the characters you recruit are really strong at different weapon types and it pays to mix things up. When you go in to battle, you select 2 ship mates to join you, so choose wisely! I myself liked to take someone who was good with conventional weapons and someone good with bio weapons. As far as molding your own character, you can choose which weapon system to focus on as well. I am old fashioned and I love conventional weapons, especially the sniper rifle. But it is very possible to go through the game as a techie or a bio fighter. With all of these possibilities, combat is usually pretty varied throughout.
Research is a vital component of the game. If you want better weapons, armor, ship components, etc., you must find the data and have your scientist do research. Actually producing the items or upgrades requires resources which are located on planets throughout the system and can also be found in small quantities during mission. This brings me to the first negative part of ME2. To find large amounts of these resources, you must scan planets for them and launch mining pods when you locate the resources. This becomes quite tedious very quickly. It can easily take up to an hour if you really want to go out and find a lot of material. It's just not fun and it seems like a waste of time. Even after you get an upgrade to speed up the process, it is still too slow in my opinion.
The game can also feel repetitive when recruiting characters. Now, this is the best part of the game, so let me explain what I mean. After you recruit enough characters to complete the mission, you can continue the main mission. DON'T! There are still more characters to recruit. Get them all, as they are all terrific and worth having on your team. What I mean by repetition is this: after you successfully recruit a character, he/she will come to you a little while later with a personal mission they would like to carry out. You don't have to do these, but completing them makes the characters loyal to you so they are worth while. And the missions themselves are great. It's here where you really learn in-depth about your squad mates. It's just that you know you are going to end up doing this for every one of your recruits if you wanna play the game to it's fullest. So there's definitely an "Okay, I have 3 more of these character missions left" feeling after a while. Still, it's well worth it and extends your game time.
During the final parts of ME2 you will make life-or-death decisions. What I loved about this was that it wasn't obvious what you were choosing. In the original Mass Effect, you had to choose between 2 characters, which would live and which would die. There is nothing so obviously black and white like that here. You make choices and there are consequences one way or another. I was very happy with the way mine turned out; in fact it couldn't have worked out any better in my opinion. I'll be happy to share what happened with anyone who has completed the game. Otherwise it would be spoiler city.
There is already some downloadable content for the game. I got it free for pre-ordering the game but I will tell you that it is worth it alone just for the character of Zaeed Massani, a ruthless assassin that will join your team if you help him complete a mission. He's a terrific character, straight out of a grade A Hollywood movie and I used him quite a bit. Highly recommended.
So Mass Effect is a very successful Sci-Fi space opera RPG. The characters are superb; I must make special mention of the voice acting which is outstanding in every regard. The story is well told although it is very tech heavy and will make a lot more sense to those who have played the first Mass Effect game. There are a few negatives here and there, so it's not perfect by any means. But it is one hell of a ride, a fantastic story and a rip-roaring adventure.
And if you see Jack, please tell her I said hi.
As with the first Mass Effect game, the characters are top-notch. They really are the highlight of the game. Getting to meet your ship mates, recruiting others for your mission and assisting them in personal matters is where the game really shines. Only a couple of characters from the first game return for duty here, though there are some nice cameos throughout. The conversations to be had with your ship mates can be quite revealing as well as compelling. As in the first game, your character has a chance at romance with several of your team members. In the first game I found myself shunning the attractive human woman because it turned out she was quite xenophobic. I had a sweet romance with a female alien instead. In Mass Effect 2, I surprised myself with the direction my heart took me once again.
The real-time battles in ME2 are fantastic. You can use conventional weapons as well as tech weapons and "bio" weapons. Some of the characters you recruit are really strong at different weapon types and it pays to mix things up. When you go in to battle, you select 2 ship mates to join you, so choose wisely! I myself liked to take someone who was good with conventional weapons and someone good with bio weapons. As far as molding your own character, you can choose which weapon system to focus on as well. I am old fashioned and I love conventional weapons, especially the sniper rifle. But it is very possible to go through the game as a techie or a bio fighter. With all of these possibilities, combat is usually pretty varied throughout.
Research is a vital component of the game. If you want better weapons, armor, ship components, etc., you must find the data and have your scientist do research. Actually producing the items or upgrades requires resources which are located on planets throughout the system and can also be found in small quantities during mission. This brings me to the first negative part of ME2. To find large amounts of these resources, you must scan planets for them and launch mining pods when you locate the resources. This becomes quite tedious very quickly. It can easily take up to an hour if you really want to go out and find a lot of material. It's just not fun and it seems like a waste of time. Even after you get an upgrade to speed up the process, it is still too slow in my opinion.
The game can also feel repetitive when recruiting characters. Now, this is the best part of the game, so let me explain what I mean. After you recruit enough characters to complete the mission, you can continue the main mission. DON'T! There are still more characters to recruit. Get them all, as they are all terrific and worth having on your team. What I mean by repetition is this: after you successfully recruit a character, he/she will come to you a little while later with a personal mission they would like to carry out. You don't have to do these, but completing them makes the characters loyal to you so they are worth while. And the missions themselves are great. It's here where you really learn in-depth about your squad mates. It's just that you know you are going to end up doing this for every one of your recruits if you wanna play the game to it's fullest. So there's definitely an "Okay, I have 3 more of these character missions left" feeling after a while. Still, it's well worth it and extends your game time.
During the final parts of ME2 you will make life-or-death decisions. What I loved about this was that it wasn't obvious what you were choosing. In the original Mass Effect, you had to choose between 2 characters, which would live and which would die. There is nothing so obviously black and white like that here. You make choices and there are consequences one way or another. I was very happy with the way mine turned out; in fact it couldn't have worked out any better in my opinion. I'll be happy to share what happened with anyone who has completed the game. Otherwise it would be spoiler city.
There is already some downloadable content for the game. I got it free for pre-ordering the game but I will tell you that it is worth it alone just for the character of Zaeed Massani, a ruthless assassin that will join your team if you help him complete a mission. He's a terrific character, straight out of a grade A Hollywood movie and I used him quite a bit. Highly recommended.
So Mass Effect is a very successful Sci-Fi space opera RPG. The characters are superb; I must make special mention of the voice acting which is outstanding in every regard. The story is well told although it is very tech heavy and will make a lot more sense to those who have played the first Mass Effect game. There are a few negatives here and there, so it's not perfect by any means. But it is one hell of a ride, a fantastic story and a rip-roaring adventure.
And if you see Jack, please tell her I said hi.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Gaming Update
Back in December, I posted that I was going to make a determined effort to finally get a handle on first person shooters and third person action games, so I thought I’d provide a little update on how that’s been working out for me. I’m pleased to report that I’ve played virtually nothing else for the last 6 weeks or so. The bulk of my time has been spent with Fallout 3 and Borderlands, and the occasional level of inFamous, Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2, Bioshock, Assassin’s Creed, Left 4 Dead 2, Metal Gear Solid 4 and Batman Arkham Asylum for variety.
I started out with inFamous and should have gone ahead and completed it but, alas, I made the mistake of cracking the seal on Fallout 3. That game consumed me for about three weeks (40+ hours) before I found myself ready for a little respite, and Borderlands has occupied my time ever since. I’m about halfway through Borderlands now, and starting to get the itch to return to Fallout 3. I doubt I’ll be able to resist taking a peek at Mass Effect 2 when it arrives in the next day or two, so I may just resign myself to rotating through a few games for the next while. It may be a less than ideal approach, but I’m having blast and, in the end, that’s what it’s all about.
Indecision and incomplete games aside, the time I’ve invested in these titles has paid off in a big way. I’ve become comfortable with the control and gameplay mechanics typical of the genres to the point where it’s become second nature. It has opened up a whole new world of gaming, and I’m now enjoying the heck out of games that previously seemed inaccessible. It leaves me wondering what took me so long!
I started out with inFamous and should have gone ahead and completed it but, alas, I made the mistake of cracking the seal on Fallout 3. That game consumed me for about three weeks (40+ hours) before I found myself ready for a little respite, and Borderlands has occupied my time ever since. I’m about halfway through Borderlands now, and starting to get the itch to return to Fallout 3. I doubt I’ll be able to resist taking a peek at Mass Effect 2 when it arrives in the next day or two, so I may just resign myself to rotating through a few games for the next while. It may be a less than ideal approach, but I’m having blast and, in the end, that’s what it’s all about.
Indecision and incomplete games aside, the time I’ve invested in these titles has paid off in a big way. I’ve become comfortable with the control and gameplay mechanics typical of the genres to the point where it’s become second nature. It has opened up a whole new world of gaming, and I’m now enjoying the heck out of games that previously seemed inaccessible. It leaves me wondering what took me so long!
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