THIS LINK is your list of this week's new video game releases.
Two words: PRINCE OF PERSIA.
wait...
Sunday, November 30, 2008
NBA teams using 'NBA Live' for scouting
Get a load of THIS LINK!
It's an LA Times story that says NBA general managers and scouts are using "NBA Live 09" and the "Dynamic DNA" feature to accurately research a player's tendencies and a team's strategy.
The only thing more remarkable than the story itself is that NOBODY at the LA Times realizes "NBA Live 08" is NOT the latest edition of the series. In fact, "09" is the first game in the series to feature the story's topic, "Dynamic DNA." Silly Rabbits.
It's an LA Times story that says NBA general managers and scouts are using "NBA Live 09" and the "Dynamic DNA" feature to accurately research a player's tendencies and a team's strategy.
The only thing more remarkable than the story itself is that NOBODY at the LA Times realizes "NBA Live 08" is NOT the latest edition of the series. In fact, "09" is the first game in the series to feature the story's topic, "Dynamic DNA." Silly Rabbits.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Recent Gaming in the Journal
If you haven't been reading the Poughkeepsie Journal in the last couple of days, you've missed A LOT! We not only ran our normal Saturday Gaming page today, we also ran one yesterday special for Friday's paper.
Two Gaming pages in Two Days! KA-KOW!
If you head over to www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/gaming you can see all the stories we ran in the last couple of days:
1) A review of "Sonic Unleashed," half of a great game.
2) A review of "Shaun White Snowboarding," which I didn't play, mostly because Shaun White grates on me, but another writer in the Gannett Family did play it, so I got his review on our special super-duper Gannett Wire.
3) A column on how game publishers are trying to curb used-game sales.
4) A column on how the Wii really needs more hardcore games.
5) The weekly Fantasy Football column.
Whew!
Two Gaming pages in Two Days! KA-KOW!
If you head over to www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/gaming you can see all the stories we ran in the last couple of days:
1) A review of "Sonic Unleashed," half of a great game.
2) A review of "Shaun White Snowboarding," which I didn't play, mostly because Shaun White grates on me, but another writer in the Gannett Family did play it, so I got his review on our special super-duper Gannett Wire.
3) A column on how game publishers are trying to curb used-game sales.
4) A column on how the Wii really needs more hardcore games.
5) The weekly Fantasy Football column.
Whew!
Friday, November 28, 2008
DC Without Superman and Batman
I don't know where I've been that I missed this, but apparently it's already common knowledge that 2009 in DC will feature a World Without a Superman. Apparently, that will be the title of James Robinson's stories in "Superman," while Geoff Johns is off of "Action Comics," which will feature Flamebird and Nightwing. It's all HERE in this Newsarama interview.
And remember, with the happenings of "Batman R.I.P." and "Final Crisis," DC is also going to be without Bruce Wayne for some time.
Here's my question: Is DC happy with being second in sales?
The Superman world had just become relevant — and even good — again. Johns' "Action" was a must-read book every month, James Robinson brought another big name to "Superman," and the inclusion of "Supergirl" into that world had even made Kara relevant for really the first time. And now DC is turning the world on its ear.
The Batman world shakeup felt organic. Granted, I wasn't the biggest fan of "R.I.P.," but Robin, Nightwing and Spoiler were all put into the necessary places for the next steps, and I find myself excited for the "Battle of the Cowl" story. I don't know, maybe when "New Krypton" is over, Clark Kent's absence will feel organic as well, but for now, it feels out of left field.
But the bigger problem here is, does DC really want two of their three heavy hitters out of the picture while the company trails Marvel by such a margin? These upcoming tales of the DC Universe without Supes and Bats may be fantastic, I'm all for going along for a ride, but from a sales standpoint, how many casual fans are going to pickup a Superman book without Superman, or a Batman book without Bruce Wayne?
I give DC credit for pursuing good stories, I just don't think DC necessarily needed these changes to tell good stories, and I don't think it will translate to sales.
And remember, with the happenings of "Batman R.I.P." and "Final Crisis," DC is also going to be without Bruce Wayne for some time.
Here's my question: Is DC happy with being second in sales?
The Superman world had just become relevant — and even good — again. Johns' "Action" was a must-read book every month, James Robinson brought another big name to "Superman," and the inclusion of "Supergirl" into that world had even made Kara relevant for really the first time. And now DC is turning the world on its ear.
The Batman world shakeup felt organic. Granted, I wasn't the biggest fan of "R.I.P.," but Robin, Nightwing and Spoiler were all put into the necessary places for the next steps, and I find myself excited for the "Battle of the Cowl" story. I don't know, maybe when "New Krypton" is over, Clark Kent's absence will feel organic as well, but for now, it feels out of left field.
But the bigger problem here is, does DC really want two of their three heavy hitters out of the picture while the company trails Marvel by such a margin? These upcoming tales of the DC Universe without Supes and Bats may be fantastic, I'm all for going along for a ride, but from a sales standpoint, how many casual fans are going to pickup a Superman book without Superman, or a Batman book without Bruce Wayne?
I give DC credit for pursuing good stories, I just don't think DC necessarily needed these changes to tell good stories, and I don't think it will translate to sales.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Buy Pile Report
Well, I didn't get a chance to go to my normal place to pick up comics, so I had to settle for somewhere a little closer to home, which orders mostly for their regulars and only has a small number of titles ordered in abundance... but, I still managed to get my mitts on both of the issues I was really itching for, Batman #681 and JSA: The Kingdom.
And I've just got to say, while I thought this conclusion to "Batman R.I.P." was effective in painting Bruce Wayne in an almost indomitable light (even where Joker is concerned), with plenty of good scenes for every member of the supporting cast, what it doesn't do is Conclude "Batman R.I.P.!" What, exactly was ended by the issue? In hindsight, knowing Grant Morrison, this shouldn't be a surprise. But still, do we know Dr. Hurt is not Thomas Wayne? Do we know where the organization started or where Dr. Hurt first felt the need to break the bat? Do we even know if Batman is still alive? Morrison has said the Batman we see in "Final Crisis" is Bruce, and that "Final Crisis" takes place after "R.I.P.," but still, why the lack of a resolution? Why the lack of an epilogue? And if he still is alive, then why do we flash forward six months at the end?
Later on tonight, if I have time, I am actually going to go back and re-read this whole set in hopes of gaining some insight... but I kind of doubt it. If anyone would like to help explain what I'm missing, I'd be happy to learn. Otherwise, I guess I'll just have to keep reading.
JSA was a much stronger read, meaning all three of the JSA specials this month failed to disappoint, something you don't normally see from one special, let alone a string of them. This issue centers around the question of the nature of Gog's Miracles, spending a good deal of time on Damage and his new face. The kid has quickly lost sight of all he learned with Liberty Bell and Hourman, and that's especially evident in his actions here. The issue also slightly advances Starman's storyline, something I am eagerly learning more about.
All in all, these specials were a great idea. Where they altogether necessary? No, but in every issue, more was fleshed out about a key player in this game, first Supes, then Magog, and now Damage. More importantly, I feel like Geoff Johns finally has the JSA back up to the momentum he established in the opening months of this series. In two issues, this whole "Kingdom Come" business will be behind us, and while I am just as excited as anyone to move on from the lengthy storyline, I have a feeling history will look back favorably on this dozen-plus issue run.
And I've just got to say, while I thought this conclusion to "Batman R.I.P." was effective in painting Bruce Wayne in an almost indomitable light (even where Joker is concerned), with plenty of good scenes for every member of the supporting cast, what it doesn't do is Conclude "Batman R.I.P.!" What, exactly was ended by the issue? In hindsight, knowing Grant Morrison, this shouldn't be a surprise. But still, do we know Dr. Hurt is not Thomas Wayne? Do we know where the organization started or where Dr. Hurt first felt the need to break the bat? Do we even know if Batman is still alive? Morrison has said the Batman we see in "Final Crisis" is Bruce, and that "Final Crisis" takes place after "R.I.P.," but still, why the lack of a resolution? Why the lack of an epilogue? And if he still is alive, then why do we flash forward six months at the end?
Later on tonight, if I have time, I am actually going to go back and re-read this whole set in hopes of gaining some insight... but I kind of doubt it. If anyone would like to help explain what I'm missing, I'd be happy to learn. Otherwise, I guess I'll just have to keep reading.
JSA was a much stronger read, meaning all three of the JSA specials this month failed to disappoint, something you don't normally see from one special, let alone a string of them. This issue centers around the question of the nature of Gog's Miracles, spending a good deal of time on Damage and his new face. The kid has quickly lost sight of all he learned with Liberty Bell and Hourman, and that's especially evident in his actions here. The issue also slightly advances Starman's storyline, something I am eagerly learning more about.
All in all, these specials were a great idea. Where they altogether necessary? No, but in every issue, more was fleshed out about a key player in this game, first Supes, then Magog, and now Damage. More importantly, I feel like Geoff Johns finally has the JSA back up to the momentum he established in the opening months of this series. In two issues, this whole "Kingdom Come" business will be behind us, and while I am just as excited as anyone to move on from the lengthy storyline, I have a feeling history will look back favorably on this dozen-plus issue run.
This week's comic book expectations
I'm likely not going to have time tonight to get the weekly expectations written up tonight, but HERE IS THE LINK to the release list.
Heroes Report on 'The Eclipse: Part 1'
I am back from quite the busy week. I apologize for neglecting this blog so much, but I figured it would be a good time to get back into the groove of things now that I just got a chance to watch Monday night's new episode of "Heroes."
Unfortunately, though, I am getting to the point where I don't know if anyone or anything can save this show. I say this because there was definitely excitement to be had here. Parts of it were downright entertaining. But, it was all wrapped in a grossly ill-conceived package.
For starters, since I haven't had a chance to get on here and rant about it, since when did the Eclipse give these people their powers? I'll tell you when -- when they PROMOTED IT on a COMMERCIAL. Now, for a while now I've felt that was bad enough, to spoil a MAJOR plot point with a commercial, but I've since realized there is a worse infraction to be seen here... how, exactly would an eclipse do this? And how can an eclipse magically take away something it magically granted? Even if you buy that "eclipse as a catalyst" stuff, how can a catalyst also be a cure?
And I'm not the only one wondering this. Get a load of THIS BLOG POST from director/producer Greg Beeman's official blog:
Even he realizes his show isn't making sense anymore!!!
Frankly, I'm just starting to think this whole "taking away powers" thing was just an elaborate way to remove Mohinder's scales. He's in a cocoon one minute, naked the next, and -- BAM -- he's a pretty boy again! Does anything set up in the first episode make sense anymore?
That doesn't even begin to go into how LAZY this whole Elle/Sylar pairing is. "Oh no, they've always had this connection, since we just showed you the past. See, that's the past, there they are together, it makes sense." And what the hell is up with her trying to make him good, then she's making him bad, then she's begging his forgiveness, now she wants to be Bonnie to his Clyde? Way to RUIN Elle, a great character set up in season two as actually being three-dimensional. And now Sylar is back to being Mr. Bad Guy? After he was a Momma's boy and Daddy's little man he's neither again? What the hell is going on from week to week???
That said, I did enjoy the Parkman/Daphne segments this week. It was nice to see him first overuse his powers to go into her head for info, and then struggle to do a basic human thing like fight for a girl without the use of his powers. And her past is one of the best ideas this show has had this year. It was almost made up for the fact that she just met this guy and she's acting like he's the most pivotal part of her life.
And while that great writing was being acted out, we go back to crap with Ando and Hiro. While I've kind of liked this whole "Hiro as a child" thing, I really want to know where they are finding these new issues of "9th Wonders." Since when is Issac alive? The writers couldn't have thought of a better way for Hiro and Ando to see the future? Oh, and did we really need cameos from Seth Green and Brecken Meyer? (Though I did love the "Freshmen" T-Shirt on Meyer...)
Meanwhile, Peter and Nathan were off in the jungle acting like they aren't constantly sacrificing themselves for each other... why? And if that idea wasn't annoying enough, I just want to know how Nathan planned on getting the Haitian back to New York...
And was I the only one who felt like that scene between Claire and HRG just fell flat seeing as all us fans have been wondering why the hell Claire, who was so close with HRG in Season One, kept acting like an irrational brat? It was a nice scene and all, but I never felt like she should have been mad at him, so I didn't feel a need for their reconciliation.
It all led up to that final cliff-hanging scene, which would have been awesome if anything was actually going to come of it. But, "Heroes" has a HORRIBLE track record for killing off popular characters, so I sincerely doubt Sylar is going to die there. More likely, I'd guess HRG fails to pull the trigger.
Either way, I'm starting to lose any hope this show will get any better, ever. Even in this episode with so much excitement, there were just TOO MANY problems to get around.
Unfortunately, though, I am getting to the point where I don't know if anyone or anything can save this show. I say this because there was definitely excitement to be had here. Parts of it were downright entertaining. But, it was all wrapped in a grossly ill-conceived package.
For starters, since I haven't had a chance to get on here and rant about it, since when did the Eclipse give these people their powers? I'll tell you when -- when they PROMOTED IT on a COMMERCIAL. Now, for a while now I've felt that was bad enough, to spoil a MAJOR plot point with a commercial, but I've since realized there is a worse infraction to be seen here... how, exactly would an eclipse do this? And how can an eclipse magically take away something it magically granted? Even if you buy that "eclipse as a catalyst" stuff, how can a catalyst also be a cure?
And I'm not the only one wondering this. Get a load of THIS BLOG POST from director/producer Greg Beeman's official blog:
In real life there would never be a full eclipse visible from all these places on Earth at the same time. Eclipses also never last for this kind of duration. (Hey – I’m dubious about the whole premise that the eclipse would take our Heroes powers away at all. I don’t think the Pilot’s eclipse gave powers… But others disagreed and that ship had sailed.)
Even he realizes his show isn't making sense anymore!!!
Frankly, I'm just starting to think this whole "taking away powers" thing was just an elaborate way to remove Mohinder's scales. He's in a cocoon one minute, naked the next, and -- BAM -- he's a pretty boy again! Does anything set up in the first episode make sense anymore?
That doesn't even begin to go into how LAZY this whole Elle/Sylar pairing is. "Oh no, they've always had this connection, since we just showed you the past. See, that's the past, there they are together, it makes sense." And what the hell is up with her trying to make him good, then she's making him bad, then she's begging his forgiveness, now she wants to be Bonnie to his Clyde? Way to RUIN Elle, a great character set up in season two as actually being three-dimensional. And now Sylar is back to being Mr. Bad Guy? After he was a Momma's boy and Daddy's little man he's neither again? What the hell is going on from week to week???
That said, I did enjoy the Parkman/Daphne segments this week. It was nice to see him first overuse his powers to go into her head for info, and then struggle to do a basic human thing like fight for a girl without the use of his powers. And her past is one of the best ideas this show has had this year. It was almost made up for the fact that she just met this guy and she's acting like he's the most pivotal part of her life.
And while that great writing was being acted out, we go back to crap with Ando and Hiro. While I've kind of liked this whole "Hiro as a child" thing, I really want to know where they are finding these new issues of "9th Wonders." Since when is Issac alive? The writers couldn't have thought of a better way for Hiro and Ando to see the future? Oh, and did we really need cameos from Seth Green and Brecken Meyer? (Though I did love the "Freshmen" T-Shirt on Meyer...)
Meanwhile, Peter and Nathan were off in the jungle acting like they aren't constantly sacrificing themselves for each other... why? And if that idea wasn't annoying enough, I just want to know how Nathan planned on getting the Haitian back to New York...
And was I the only one who felt like that scene between Claire and HRG just fell flat seeing as all us fans have been wondering why the hell Claire, who was so close with HRG in Season One, kept acting like an irrational brat? It was a nice scene and all, but I never felt like she should have been mad at him, so I didn't feel a need for their reconciliation.
It all led up to that final cliff-hanging scene, which would have been awesome if anything was actually going to come of it. But, "Heroes" has a HORRIBLE track record for killing off popular characters, so I sincerely doubt Sylar is going to die there. More likely, I'd guess HRG fails to pull the trigger.
Either way, I'm starting to lose any hope this show will get any better, ever. Even in this episode with so much excitement, there were just TOO MANY problems to get around.
Monday, November 17, 2008
This week's video game release list
Believe it or not, folks, we've reached the beginning of the end of the busiest time of the year. The "Holiday" video game season is actually October to mid-November, and if you take a look at the week's releases at THIS LINK, you'll see this isn't exactly the jam-packed week we've been growing accustomed to.
Still, some good stuff to choose from, including "Mortal Kombat vs. DC" and "NCAA Basketball."
Still, some good stuff to choose from, including "Mortal Kombat vs. DC" and "NCAA Basketball."
Friday, November 14, 2008
No Gaming Saturday in the Journal
So, if you read the previous post, you know there is no Gaming page in Saturday's Poughkeepsie Journal. It's a space issue, my hands are tied.
To make up for it, I've uploaded a fresh review of "FIFA Soccer 09" for Wii, which is just finished writing. Look for the Review on Saturday at www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/gaming
(I know, I know, that "Spider-man: Web of Shadows" review is long overdue, it will be online by Monday, I promise!)
Hopefully next week we'll have more space in the paper to get a full page in.
To make up for it, I've uploaded a fresh review of "FIFA Soccer 09" for Wii, which is just finished writing. Look for the Review on Saturday at www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/gaming
(I know, I know, that "Spider-man: Web of Shadows" review is long overdue, it will be online by Monday, I promise!)
Hopefully next week we'll have more space in the paper to get a full page in.
"Resistance 2" review
I was planning on running this in Saturday's Journal Gaming page, but since we have no room for Gaming this week, here's the Associated Press' quick review of "Resistance 2":
“Resistance 2,” U.S. Army Ranger Nathan Hale helped England fight off the Chimera, whose most effective weapon is a virus that can turn humans into monsters. As “Resistance 2” begins, the Chimera have crossed the pond, so Hale returns home to resume the battle — even though he shows symptoms of a Chimera infection himself.
Insomniac, the studio behind this series, has also greatly expanded its size and scale, leaping from the urban crush of London to more wide-open American spaces. (The devastated Chicago here is almost as jaw-dropping as the ruined Washington in “Fallout 3.”) The enemies are bigger and smarter; fortunately, your computer-controlled squadmates are more helpful as well. And a major twist — Hale has just 19 hours to live — adds breakneck momentum to the plot.
Naturally, you get some powerful new weapons, most of which have two uses; for example, the Magnum can fire normal bullets or remote-controlled explosives. A healthy multiplayer menu includes the manic Skirmish mode, in which as many as 60 players can battle to complete ever-changing objectives. Add in its satisfying cooperative play and you have one of the most full-bodied adventures on the PS3.
Three-and-a-half stars out of four.
“Resistance 2,” U.S. Army Ranger Nathan Hale helped England fight off the Chimera, whose most effective weapon is a virus that can turn humans into monsters. As “Resistance 2” begins, the Chimera have crossed the pond, so Hale returns home to resume the battle — even though he shows symptoms of a Chimera infection himself.
Insomniac, the studio behind this series, has also greatly expanded its size and scale, leaping from the urban crush of London to more wide-open American spaces. (The devastated Chicago here is almost as jaw-dropping as the ruined Washington in “Fallout 3.”) The enemies are bigger and smarter; fortunately, your computer-controlled squadmates are more helpful as well. And a major twist — Hale has just 19 hours to live — adds breakneck momentum to the plot.
Naturally, you get some powerful new weapons, most of which have two uses; for example, the Magnum can fire normal bullets or remote-controlled explosives. A healthy multiplayer menu includes the manic Skirmish mode, in which as many as 60 players can battle to complete ever-changing objectives. Add in its satisfying cooperative play and you have one of the most full-bodied adventures on the PS3.
Three-and-a-half stars out of four.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Get your "FIFA Soccer" in 14 languages FREE
Get a load of this press release from EA Sports. Am I the only one who wants to play in Russian?
EA SPORTS announced today that all 14 international commentary packs in FIFA Soccer 09 will be available to download free on both the PlayStation Network for PLAYSTATION 3 and on Xbox Live for Xbox 360. For the first time, fans worldwide can now download and experience all language commentary packs featuring different commentators from all over the world while playing FIFA Soccer 09.
FIFA Soccer 09 currently features specific languages by region but beginning today gamers can download and experience play-by-play commentary from other regions of the world. This will deliver a new international experience to FIFA Soccer 09 fans.
The following commentary packs will be available beginning today:
Language — Commentator's Names
English — Andy Gray, Martin Tyler
French — Herve Mathoux, Franck Sauzée
Italian — Giuseppe Bergomi, Fabio Caressa
German — Tom Bayer, Sebastian Hellman
Spanish — Paco González, Manolo Lama
Mexico — Perro Bermúdez, Ricardo Pelaez
Dutch — Youri Mulder, Evert Ten Napel
European Portuguese — David Carvalho, Hélder Conduto
Hungarian — Richard Faragó, István B. Hajú
Russian — Yuri Rozanov, Vasily Solojov
Swedish — Glenn Hysén, Henrik Strömblad
Czech — Bosák Jaromír, Petr Svěcený
Polish — Włodzimierz Szaranowicz, Dariusz Szpakowski
Brazilian Portugese — Paulo Vinícius Coelho, Nivaldo Prieto
Additionally, FIFA Soccer 09 offers a whole new commentary pack for download on the PlayStation Network and Xbox Marketplace. An additional English commentary pack featuring Andy Townsend and Clive Tyldesley previously unavailable on any version of FIFA Soccer 09 is available for download for only $4.99 US.
Buy Pile Report: Kingdom Come Superman
I'm not through my complete Buy Pile yet, and I don't know if I am going to have time tonight, but I wanted to make sure to get on here and say my piece on JSA: Kingdom Come Special: Superman.
If you read the original "Kingdom Come," it doesn't get any better than this, and you better make sure to pick this up, even if you haven't been reading the current "Justice Society" arc.
The issue reads like another epilogue to the original "Kingdom Come," and looks the part to boot, since Alex Ross handled every last bit of the art, from drawing to inking to coloring, painting the scenes from Earth-22 and drawing the scenes from our Earth.
(By the way, on an unrelated note, the movie "Weird Science," which is on HBO right now, includes a scene with a Mohawk-wearing Native American Biker saying the sentence "You can't even take a shower with a beautiful woman without taking off your jeans!" How awesome was that movie?!?)
Where was I? Oh yeah, understated grace and art. Ross crafted more than a few classic scenes here. Superman fans are going to love the look on KC Superman's face when he realizes he's in a room full of Kryptonite. "Kingdom Come" fans are going to love the reunion with Norman McCray. And, comics do not get any closer to art than those final scenes with Lois.
Most of all, I just really loved reading KC Superman as written by the man who knows him best, once again. At heart, this epilogue was the story of how this Superman is able to handle his second chance. It's one thing to put a tortured character into a bright new world with a fresh chance at happiness, but that character has still been through all sorts of hell. This is the story of a survivor who didn't necessarily want to survive, given all he's seen, and we get to see here how those experience taint his actions.
This is a story anyone who's survived a traumatic experience can relate to, and I could not recommend this issue highly enough to anyone who read "Kingdom Come."
If you read the original "Kingdom Come," it doesn't get any better than this, and you better make sure to pick this up, even if you haven't been reading the current "Justice Society" arc.
The issue reads like another epilogue to the original "Kingdom Come," and looks the part to boot, since Alex Ross handled every last bit of the art, from drawing to inking to coloring, painting the scenes from Earth-22 and drawing the scenes from our Earth.
(By the way, on an unrelated note, the movie "Weird Science," which is on HBO right now, includes a scene with a Mohawk-wearing Native American Biker saying the sentence "You can't even take a shower with a beautiful woman without taking off your jeans!" How awesome was that movie?!?)
Where was I? Oh yeah, understated grace and art. Ross crafted more than a few classic scenes here. Superman fans are going to love the look on KC Superman's face when he realizes he's in a room full of Kryptonite. "Kingdom Come" fans are going to love the reunion with Norman McCray. And, comics do not get any closer to art than those final scenes with Lois.
Most of all, I just really loved reading KC Superman as written by the man who knows him best, once again. At heart, this epilogue was the story of how this Superman is able to handle his second chance. It's one thing to put a tortured character into a bright new world with a fresh chance at happiness, but that character has still been through all sorts of hell. This is the story of a survivor who didn't necessarily want to survive, given all he's seen, and we get to see here how those experience taint his actions.
This is a story anyone who's survived a traumatic experience can relate to, and I could not recommend this issue highly enough to anyone who read "Kingdom Come."
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Town of Batman suing "Batman"
So... apparently there's a town in Turkey named Batman. Who knew?
This town has decided to sue Warner Bros. and director Christopher Nolan over recent film "The Dark Knight." Believe it or not, this is not a prank. Check THIS LINK to Variety to see the whole story.
I think the part I like most about this story isn't the fact that this town could have been suing Bob Kane for the last 70 years, or the fact that this town could have been suing DC at any point during that time, it's the fact that "The Dark Knight" is a SEQUEL! They're not suing over "Batman Begins," a movie that actually uses the word "Batman" in the title, they're suing over the ultra-successful sequel. Money hungry any?
And the part I like second most about this story is, apparently the King of Turkey (or President or Premiere or Emperor, or Grand Pooba, or whatever Turkey has), apparently let his eight-year-old son name a city. Were my Dad to let me name a city when I was eight, the city would have been named Grimlock — you know, the King of the Dinobots?
Learn more about the Turkish City of Batman HERE.
This town has decided to sue Warner Bros. and director Christopher Nolan over recent film "The Dark Knight." Believe it or not, this is not a prank. Check THIS LINK to Variety to see the whole story.
I think the part I like most about this story isn't the fact that this town could have been suing Bob Kane for the last 70 years, or the fact that this town could have been suing DC at any point during that time, it's the fact that "The Dark Knight" is a SEQUEL! They're not suing over "Batman Begins," a movie that actually uses the word "Batman" in the title, they're suing over the ultra-successful sequel. Money hungry any?
And the part I like second most about this story is, apparently the King of Turkey (or President or Premiere or Emperor, or Grand Pooba, or whatever Turkey has), apparently let his eight-year-old son name a city. Were my Dad to let me name a city when I was eight, the city would have been named Grimlock — you know, the King of the Dinobots?
Learn more about the Turkish City of Batman HERE.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
This week's comic book expectations
It's an unusually light week this week, with just a few choice DC comics to carry the week, depending on which of DC's top titles you read. HERE'S THE LINK to the full list.
The book I'm most looking forward to this week is JSA Special: Kingdom Come Superman #1, for a few reasons. For one, I love the character, and I'm digging the second half of this unwieldy JSA/Kingdom Come story. I'm also just thrilled by the fact that all these tie-ins exist this month, helping the storyline along to its December finish. And, finally, have you seen this cover? I'm guessing this is just an Alex Ross omage to himself, but if this is actually part of the storyline, what, exactly, is going on in KC Supes' head that he and Our Superman are fighting? This storyline has dragged on for much too long, but with the first of these three tie-ins, I'm still optimistic Geoff Johns is making it worth our while.
Speaking of Johns, Action Comics #871 continues the "New Krypton" storyline, and if you haven't been reading and you're a DC fan, then you are making a big mistake. It's obvious this infusion of so many Kryptonians onto Earth will have far greater implications than simply Superman's feelings.
There are two "Batman R.I.P." tie-ins this week (if you can call them that) in Detective Comics #850 and Nightwing #150, but I am actually more interested in Batman Cacophony #1, the first part in a three-part mini-series written by Kevin Smith. When Mr. Smith can get his stuff out on time, I think he's a pretty darn good comic writer, and I'm hoping the fact that this is a set three-issue job will get him to finish his job in a timely manner. Mostly, though, I am just kind of excited about a plain-old Bruce Wayne Batman story with an interesting sounding (no pun intended) villain in Onomatopoeia.
Out in space, Green Lantern Corps. #30 features the Purple Lanterns, when Guy, Kyle and co. travel to Zameron. I don't know about any of you, but I am loving how Johns and Peter Tomasi have divided up and conquered all the background info leading up to "Blackest Night." Between the two, we've learned all about the Red, Blue, and now Purple Lanterns, in addition to the Yellow and Green we all know and love. I'm eager to read what the Purples are up to here.
Also this week, keep an eye out for Black Terror #1, the first spin-off from the "Project Superpowers" universe. Frankly, I love the character and really think this universe created by Dynamite Comics has a shot at becoming a force in Superhero Comics. However, it's going to take all our support to happen. So, if you enjoyed "Project Superpowers," maybe add this to your pull list this week.
That's all, folks. I'm off to play some "FIFA Soccer 09: All-Play" on the Wii. Who knows? It could be good. I'll let you all know when I know!
The book I'm most looking forward to this week is JSA Special: Kingdom Come Superman #1, for a few reasons. For one, I love the character, and I'm digging the second half of this unwieldy JSA/Kingdom Come story. I'm also just thrilled by the fact that all these tie-ins exist this month, helping the storyline along to its December finish. And, finally, have you seen this cover? I'm guessing this is just an Alex Ross omage to himself, but if this is actually part of the storyline, what, exactly, is going on in KC Supes' head that he and Our Superman are fighting? This storyline has dragged on for much too long, but with the first of these three tie-ins, I'm still optimistic Geoff Johns is making it worth our while.
Speaking of Johns, Action Comics #871 continues the "New Krypton" storyline, and if you haven't been reading and you're a DC fan, then you are making a big mistake. It's obvious this infusion of so many Kryptonians onto Earth will have far greater implications than simply Superman's feelings.
There are two "Batman R.I.P." tie-ins this week (if you can call them that) in Detective Comics #850 and Nightwing #150, but I am actually more interested in Batman Cacophony #1, the first part in a three-part mini-series written by Kevin Smith. When Mr. Smith can get his stuff out on time, I think he's a pretty darn good comic writer, and I'm hoping the fact that this is a set three-issue job will get him to finish his job in a timely manner. Mostly, though, I am just kind of excited about a plain-old Bruce Wayne Batman story with an interesting sounding (no pun intended) villain in Onomatopoeia.
Out in space, Green Lantern Corps. #30 features the Purple Lanterns, when Guy, Kyle and co. travel to Zameron. I don't know about any of you, but I am loving how Johns and Peter Tomasi have divided up and conquered all the background info leading up to "Blackest Night." Between the two, we've learned all about the Red, Blue, and now Purple Lanterns, in addition to the Yellow and Green we all know and love. I'm eager to read what the Purples are up to here.
Also this week, keep an eye out for Black Terror #1, the first spin-off from the "Project Superpowers" universe. Frankly, I love the character and really think this universe created by Dynamite Comics has a shot at becoming a force in Superhero Comics. However, it's going to take all our support to happen. So, if you enjoyed "Project Superpowers," maybe add this to your pull list this week.
That's all, folks. I'm off to play some "FIFA Soccer 09: All-Play" on the Wii. Who knows? It could be good. I'll let you all know when I know!
'Fable II' DLC Soon?
Get a load of THIS LINK saying there's a big "Fable II" announcement due next week.
We can only hope the downloadable content is an actual ending. Please, please, please, give us an ending!
We can only hope the downloadable content is an actual ending. Please, please, please, give us an ending!
Heroes Report: Villains
OK, so apparently I was pretty zonked out from a severe lack of sleep over the past week, because I fell asleep not long after last night's "Heroes" finished and didn't wake up until noon.
But, I'm here now to offer a few thoughts on last night's episode, "Villains." And the most predominant thought was What was the Point?!?
We've seen this formula before, at least a couple of times. "Heroes" likes to set up grand ideas, only to take a week off to show a little bit of the past to better inform viewers of current situations. Well, does anyone feel better informed?
Here's what we learned:
1) Elle apparently has had the hots for Sylar, and had a hand in his creation. But how believable is that given the interactions we've seen between the two characters? And how believable was her character here, given how much of a freaky, sheltered, unfeeling badass she was before the end of season two?
2) HRG apparently is a major reason for him becoming a monster... have we ever seen him guilty for this in the least while Sylar stalked his daughter? If anything, this only painted HRG, the Batman of the show, as an unfeeling monster.
3) And by the way, could we make Sylar look anymore innocent?!? What good is his redemption anymore? Suddenly, the most imposing force on the show for over two seasons has become nothing but a mindless pawn. Let him keep one of his balls, please!
4) Meredith is apparently the sister of Mr. Blue Hands Flint, and apparently Eric Roberts tried to make her an agent. First off, why would the agent want someone who can set fires? Second, how ineffective was Eric Roberts as an agent? He was just running around with that craptastic collar of his making a mess of things. And Third, Did we learn ANYTHING worthwhile about any of these characters?
5) Finally, we have the Petrellis. And yes, I suppose we did learn a couple of interesting tidbits here: Linderman was never manipulating Daddy Petrelli. Daddy Petrelli tried to kill Nathan, not Linderman. Linderman had the hots for Mommy Petrelli. Mommy Petrelli was the one who "killed" Daddy Petrelli.
That about do it? Yeah? Did we need AN HOUR to tell all that?
And all the while, these minuscule scenes were padded by other scenes that tied into the pilot. Had we been given more revelations in this episode, I'm sure this would have come off as slick and creative. Instead, it just felt cheap and lazy.
In the past (no pun intended) when "Heroes" has flashed back to show details of the past, it's been informative and felt genuine. Here, I felt like (once again) these writers were scrambling to reshape the past to better fit their half-assed new plans.
Meaning, once again, instead of getting creative, unique storylines in the future, we're going to get the same forced drivel we've been dealing with for some time.
And if you think this is harsh, I just slept for 12 hours. I'm in a great mood!
But, I'm here now to offer a few thoughts on last night's episode, "Villains." And the most predominant thought was What was the Point?!?
We've seen this formula before, at least a couple of times. "Heroes" likes to set up grand ideas, only to take a week off to show a little bit of the past to better inform viewers of current situations. Well, does anyone feel better informed?
Here's what we learned:
1) Elle apparently has had the hots for Sylar, and had a hand in his creation. But how believable is that given the interactions we've seen between the two characters? And how believable was her character here, given how much of a freaky, sheltered, unfeeling badass she was before the end of season two?
2) HRG apparently is a major reason for him becoming a monster... have we ever seen him guilty for this in the least while Sylar stalked his daughter? If anything, this only painted HRG, the Batman of the show, as an unfeeling monster.
3) And by the way, could we make Sylar look anymore innocent?!? What good is his redemption anymore? Suddenly, the most imposing force on the show for over two seasons has become nothing but a mindless pawn. Let him keep one of his balls, please!
4) Meredith is apparently the sister of Mr. Blue Hands Flint, and apparently Eric Roberts tried to make her an agent. First off, why would the agent want someone who can set fires? Second, how ineffective was Eric Roberts as an agent? He was just running around with that craptastic collar of his making a mess of things. And Third, Did we learn ANYTHING worthwhile about any of these characters?
5) Finally, we have the Petrellis. And yes, I suppose we did learn a couple of interesting tidbits here: Linderman was never manipulating Daddy Petrelli. Daddy Petrelli tried to kill Nathan, not Linderman. Linderman had the hots for Mommy Petrelli. Mommy Petrelli was the one who "killed" Daddy Petrelli.
That about do it? Yeah? Did we need AN HOUR to tell all that?
And all the while, these minuscule scenes were padded by other scenes that tied into the pilot. Had we been given more revelations in this episode, I'm sure this would have come off as slick and creative. Instead, it just felt cheap and lazy.
In the past (no pun intended) when "Heroes" has flashed back to show details of the past, it's been informative and felt genuine. Here, I felt like (once again) these writers were scrambling to reshape the past to better fit their half-assed new plans.
Meaning, once again, instead of getting creative, unique storylines in the future, we're going to get the same forced drivel we've been dealing with for some time.
And if you think this is harsh, I just slept for 12 hours. I'm in a great mood!
Sunday, November 9, 2008
This week's video game releases
Have you over-dosed on great new video games yet? Well, get ready for another helping this week. Honestly, it's been four or five weeks straight now, and who has the time?
HERE'S THE LINK to the full list of this week's games.
So what are you playing? I'm pumped to play "Mirror's Edge," but there's plenty for everyone this week.
HERE'S THE LINK to the full list of this week's games.
So what are you playing? I'm pumped to play "Mirror's Edge," but there's plenty for everyone this week.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Friday, November 7, 2008
Saturday's Gaming in the Journal
Well, at 7:30 in the morning I was riding a __________ (censored by Epic Games) into a ______ (censored by Epic Games) in order to ________ (censored by Epic Games), and I finished "Gears of War 2."
Confused? So was my boss today, when I send him that sentence un-edited, with all the "Gears" jargon in it.
"What's a _______ (edited by you know who)? Is that like an SUV?"
It's amazing how much I am not allowed to talk about. But, in a couple of days, when everyone has had a fair chance to play the game, I will start blabbing.
For now, I just finished my review of "Gears of War 2," so look for it in the Poughkeepsie Journal's Gaming page (Page 3C on Saturday!)
Also on the Gaming page (Page 3C on Saturday), we have a feature on the World Series of Poker's Final Table (which begins on Sunday), and a fantasy football column.
But mostly GEARS! (Sorry "Resistance" fans, I only had time to play one this week, and the wire didn't send me reviews of either, so I had to choose).
Check out the Poughkeepsie Journal's Gaming page on Saturday (Page 3C), or check www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/gaming for the stories on Saturday.
Confused? So was my boss today, when I send him that sentence un-edited, with all the "Gears" jargon in it.
"What's a _______ (edited by you know who)? Is that like an SUV?"
It's amazing how much I am not allowed to talk about. But, in a couple of days, when everyone has had a fair chance to play the game, I will start blabbing.
For now, I just finished my review of "Gears of War 2," so look for it in the Poughkeepsie Journal's Gaming page (Page 3C on Saturday!)
Also on the Gaming page (Page 3C on Saturday), we have a feature on the World Series of Poker's Final Table (which begins on Sunday), and a fantasy football column.
But mostly GEARS! (Sorry "Resistance" fans, I only had time to play one this week, and the wire didn't send me reviews of either, so I had to choose).
Check out the Poughkeepsie Journal's Gaming page on Saturday (Page 3C), or check www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/gaming for the stories on Saturday.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
'Gears of War 2' launching tonight
Is everybody counting down the hours? Well, as least Xbox 360 owners? "Gears of War 2" is out tonight at midnight.
I spent seven hours playing the game last night, and all I can say is, you won't be disappointed. The story is bigger, the battles are bigger and, well, some of the enemies are bigger. The Predator even makes an appearance!
And as soon as I get out of the office tonight, I'll be going right back to Sera, since this is one of the (if not the) best shooters I've ever played. Oh, and if you want more details, look for my review in Saturday's Poughkeepsie Journal.
Sorry, I'm under strict orders not to spoil... pretty much anything... but, once the game is out I'm going to post the full list of EVERYTHING Epic Games didn't want me mentioning in the review. You need to see the lengthy list I got sent, it's like government censorship!
(and keep waiting for that "Spider-man: Web of Shadows" review... it's coming, I promise!)
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
'Mirror's Edge' preview video
This video was sent to me yesterday and since I'm so high on EA's upcoming "Mirror's Edge" I figured I'd share it with you all. By the way, I have no idea what's up with this guy's hair, he doesn't work for me. Enjoy!
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Tuesday, November 4, 2008
This week's comic expectations
I don't think I'm going to have time to post any expectations for the week until at least 1 a.m. tonight, if at all, so in the meantime, HERE'S THE LINK to the list of this week's releases.
Impressions of 'Mirror's Edge' and 'Spider-man: Web of Shadows'
Well, I spent the last nine hours playing my Xbox, namely two games:
1) I finally downloaded the demo of "Mirror's Edge," and I was floored. If you haven't seen the game yet, this is a one-of-a-kind experience, a first-person adventure game in which you're basically a free runner (in fact, your character is called a "Runner" in the game). Anyway, the world is your monkey bars in this game, kinda like buildings and stairwells are one big "Ninja Warrior" course. And while, yes, there were several many kinks here, and while there were a couple of instances of oblivious frustration in the demo alone, the game was so exciting and unique that I would say everyone should at least download the demo and give it a try.
(In case you're wondering, yes, I did immediately contact Electronic Arts in hopes of getting myself a press review copy).
2) The better part of that nine hours was spent with "Spider-man: Web of Shadows." A full review on this one will be posted to the Gaming Web site in a few days, but for now, I'll give some impressions on what I have played so far, the first two acts. Spider-man fans are going to love this game, pretty much just because of the fluidity of the web-slinging and wall-crawling. The storyline is also, at heart, pretty good... the only problem is that it's non-existent for the entire first act. For the most part, all you do in the first two acts is swing around beating up generic henchmen to meet quotas and earn XP. Not the most exciting stuff, especially after the unexpected thrill that was "Mirror's Edge." Still, the game has some humor, and a lot of promise, so don't take this as a full judgement by any means. I'm hoping the second half of this tale is the stronger of the two.
1) I finally downloaded the demo of "Mirror's Edge," and I was floored. If you haven't seen the game yet, this is a one-of-a-kind experience, a first-person adventure game in which you're basically a free runner (in fact, your character is called a "Runner" in the game). Anyway, the world is your monkey bars in this game, kinda like buildings and stairwells are one big "Ninja Warrior" course. And while, yes, there were several many kinks here, and while there were a couple of instances of oblivious frustration in the demo alone, the game was so exciting and unique that I would say everyone should at least download the demo and give it a try.
(In case you're wondering, yes, I did immediately contact Electronic Arts in hopes of getting myself a press review copy).
2) The better part of that nine hours was spent with "Spider-man: Web of Shadows." A full review on this one will be posted to the Gaming Web site in a few days, but for now, I'll give some impressions on what I have played so far, the first two acts. Spider-man fans are going to love this game, pretty much just because of the fluidity of the web-slinging and wall-crawling. The storyline is also, at heart, pretty good... the only problem is that it's non-existent for the entire first act. For the most part, all you do in the first two acts is swing around beating up generic henchmen to meet quotas and earn XP. Not the most exciting stuff, especially after the unexpected thrill that was "Mirror's Edge." Still, the game has some humor, and a lot of promise, so don't take this as a full judgement by any means. I'm hoping the second half of this tale is the stronger of the two.
Monday, November 3, 2008
'Heroes' creative team shakeup
Well, there is no new episode of "Heroes" tonight, but there is big news out of the creative team for the show. Hit THIS LINK and see two executive producers, Jeph Loeb and Jesse Alexander have both been fired from the show.
Personally, I love this move, and not only because I have not been able to stand Loeb's recent work in any medium. I love the move because it is clear the writers are trying WAY TOO HARD to pander to every single criticism they heard over Season Two, and the result is stories written with the attention span of a five-year-old boy in mind. On top of that, there have been far too many wink-wink comic book jokes this season, and while I am sure Loeb is not the only reason for these, his spot in the executive producer chair leaves him as the figurehead for the problem.
As I said in past "Heroes Reports," the show is still entertaining, but the writing is some of the most under developed drivel you're going to find this side of "Spider-man 3." Maybe a little shakeup of the head writers is just what the show needed to remember to develop its ideas before putting them on screen.
From what I can discern, by the way, the show should be shooting around episodes 13 or 14 right now, which means we're still a good two months away from seeing if this change equates to success.
Personally, I love this move, and not only because I have not been able to stand Loeb's recent work in any medium. I love the move because it is clear the writers are trying WAY TOO HARD to pander to every single criticism they heard over Season Two, and the result is stories written with the attention span of a five-year-old boy in mind. On top of that, there have been far too many wink-wink comic book jokes this season, and while I am sure Loeb is not the only reason for these, his spot in the executive producer chair leaves him as the figurehead for the problem.
As I said in past "Heroes Reports," the show is still entertaining, but the writing is some of the most under developed drivel you're going to find this side of "Spider-man 3." Maybe a little shakeup of the head writers is just what the show needed to remember to develop its ideas before putting them on screen.
From what I can discern, by the way, the show should be shooting around episodes 13 or 14 right now, which means we're still a good two months away from seeing if this change equates to success.
This week's video game release list
Check out the list of new video game releases at THIS LINK, where the question is: Are you going to be playing "Gears of War 2" this week or "Resistance 2"?!? Big week for the FPS fans out there, eh?
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