The Next Console Generation? Don't Hold Your Beath

Throughout the history of video games and video game consoles, one rule has held steadfast--every 5 or so years, the industry refreshes with what's referred to as a new "generation" of consoles, where each of the major console manufacturers trumpets out new, more powerful devices while slowly phasing out the old ones. 2011 marks the fifth year since the 2006 launch of the Nintendo Wii and PlayStation 3--and the sixth year since the Xbox 360's launch in 2005--yet not only have we yet to hear of any new machines, it does not appear likely that new systems will be entering the market until 2015. The reality is that nobody involved in the industry--from the manufacturers to the developers to the publishers to even the consumers--even want a new console generation anytime soon. And for good reason.

PS2: The First 10-year Console (and counting)

When Sony first launched the PlayStation 3, the Japanese tech giant defended the system's initially astronomical price tag by claiming that the PS3 was designed for a ten-year life cycle. While there were plenty of critics doubting Sony's lofty ambitions, in hindsight the goal was not so unrealistic given the ongoing success of the PlayStation 2. By the time the PS2 reached its 10th anniversary in 2010, sales had declined significantly from its heydey, but it was far from dead in the water (games continue to be published for the system to this day). In other words, a system planned to have a 10-year life cycle surely could achieve that goal with little trouble given the PS2's already-established lasting power (then again, the PS2 is the most successful console ever made).

However, the PS2 achieved this feat 4-5 years after the start of the current console generation, so it's not like it can really be regarded as the catalyst for the elongation of the life cycle. Instead, we must answer a fundamental question: why would Sony, Microsoft, or (to a lesser extent) Nintendo even want to release a new console right now? The PS3 and Xbox 360 are still growing and have yet to hit critical mass. Further, the cost of actually releasing a new console is tremendous, and the manufacturers often launch new consoles at a loss and make up the difference over time in game licensing fees, accessory sales, and (down the road) cheaper and/or more efficient components. There's no reason for these companies to go back into the red when the current generation is still in its prime and still growing. The economic turmoil that has tightened up budgets around the world--and that played a role in slowing growth in the generation's early years--has only reaffirmed this position.

The PS3 Slim makes the unit cheaper for Sony to
manufacture.

(Note: the Nintendo Wii may be an exemption to this logic and will be excluded for the rest of the article. The Wii experienced its first sales decline in 2010 and--while still strong and still the overall market leader--there is no doubt that the system will reach its demise first of the three, especially considering that it was a far weaker console to begin with. However, still don't expect a successor until at least next year; the Wii still retails for $200, meaning there's plenty of room for sales-invigorating price drops).

To further strengthen the console manufacturers' position, the developers and publishers are more than happy to keep the current consoles around for as long as possible. The installed bases (number of people who own the current consoles) are still growing. A new set of consoles would mean higher development costs and a need for developers to learn how to develop for entirely new computer architectures when they are only just now tapping the full potential of the PS3 and 360. The publishers would also not want to combine these higher costs with installed bases that would inherently be only a fraction of what's available right now, which would severely limit the sales potential of any next-generation game, no matter how good. The increasing installed bases of the current consoles also decreases the risk of developing middle-ranged niche titles that can sell to just a small segment of the market rather than needing to achieve AAA blockbuster success.

Because of Xbox Live's heavy integration to the 360 dashboard,
Microsoft was able to completely overhaul the dash to
accommodate changing times.

Any rational consumer doesn't want a new console either. With the developers finally getting a firm grasp on development for this generation, gamers are able to play increasingly higher-quality games. The aforementioned benefits of growing installed bases also means that developers and publishers will be willing to take more risks, which opens up the door to new, more radical gameplay ideas. Consumers also get the advantage of sequels and entire trilogies that can actually build off previous titles in the same generation; it would be almost impossible for BioWare's Mass Effect trilogy to maintain the sense of continuity from game-to-game if the generation were cut short as currently these games import previous games' save data directly off the hard drive (of course, a cloud-based memory solution like what Sony's launching with PlayStation Plus could alleviate this hurdle). Perhaps most importantly, these consoles still cost about $300, or the traditional launching price of a new console (though that has already been thrown out the window). Should sales start declining like what the Wii's beginning to see, there's plenty of room for price drops, which trigger a massive increase in sales. With the abundance of quality games still being released for the current consoles, the last thing a consumer wants to do is shell out hundreds of dollars to start over again.

Kinect and the Xbox 360 S: a recipe for longevity.

There are several other factors in this generation's elongation. For one, the primary driving force in the launch of previous generations was technological advancements that allowed for a significant increase in pure graphical power. Let's face it: no matter how much more realistic future consoles may get, any improvements would only be incremental to the strikingly realistic visuals already achieved by today's consoles. Another game-changer is the current consoles' integration with online connectivity. The PS3 and Xbox 360 as they exist today are far more advanced than the machines that launched, even with with the slimmer redesigns aside. Having the Internet so thoroughly integrated into the experience means that the consoles are able to evolve as time goes on--something that previously necessitated an entirely new hardware product. Already we've seen things like Netflix, Hulu, ESPN, MLB.tv, NHL GameCenter, Last.fm, Facebook, Twitter, Zune, IPTV, and a whole bunch of other applications get added to the consoles' stable of features.

Finally, 2010 saw the launch of major peripherals for both the PS3 and 360 that provide a new method of interaction that could easily be associated with a new console, but instead are simply additions to the current hardware. Sony and Microsoft certainly hope that the PlayStation Move and Kinect Sensor for Xbox 360 can carry their respective hardware for the equivalent of a new generation, but as we've been over this whole time, even if they flop (which they aren't), these consoles are plenty capable of continuing growth on their own.

Bite-Size Review: Assassin's Creed II

The original Assassin's Creed was a very divisive game among reviewers. Many praised its graphical fidelity, smooth parkour animations, original storyline and setting, and counter-based (albeit not very realistic) combat system. The one big knock on it was its repetitive gameplay, particularly when it came to the pre-assassination research sequences. Ubisoft Montreal has taken these criticisms to heart and has come up with something very special: the "perfect" sequel. Assassin's Creed II is a fantastic game, fixing everything that didn't work about the original and putting everything that did work into overdrive while adding a few more layers of depth to the whole package.

A lot can be said for the new mission structure, which throws out the troublesome system of the original. The new structure is now more quest-based and you always know where the next story objective is just by following your mini map to the "!" cursor. There are a lot of side-missions but you only have to do them once each during the main story when the protagonist, Ezio, first encounters them. The depressing browns and grays of the medieval Holy Land give way to the beautiful cities and lush countrysides of Renaissance Italy. Venice in particular is incredibly massive, and the waterways that cut through it give it a very distinct flavor. Combat is improved by giving you the ability to upgrade everything in your arsenal, including weapons, armor, and even a primitive pistol. Perhaps the best thing about what the developers accomplished is the seamless way in which you slowly acquire more and more abilities, giving you the sense that you're character is actually learning and growing. Everything feels clumsy in the beginning but by the time the credits roll you will indeed be a master assassin.

Taking center stage among the many stellar features in this package is the story. Much like the original, the main protagonist is actually Desmond Miles in the year 2012, thought you spend much of the game living the memories of his Italian ancestor Ezio Auditore da Firenze. The overarching plot ties in a whole multitude of key historical events and figures (including the people you assassinate) and wraps them tightly into its own mythology, National Treasure and DaVinci Code-style (ironic since Leonardo Da Vinci plays a prominent role in this game). Without revealing any spoilers, let's just say there are a lot of twists in the story and a couple mind-bending surprises including a segment halfway through the game that'll mess with you. That's just the warm up, however, because once you witness the mind-blowing cliffhanger ending and collect all 20 segments of Subject 16's secret video, you'll finally get a sense of the tremendous scope the series has to offer. The parts of the story that unravel here make the original Assassin's Creed look like a microscopic speck on the iceberg.

The whole package is wrapped together very tightly and its clear that Ubisoft Montreal actually payed attention to many cinematic conventions that have become basic skills for movie directors. Its nice to see and gives the cutscenes much more authority since they actually look professional. Even outside of cutscenes and in the wild of the actual game, camera movement is very intelligent. This is without a doubt one of the most cinematic games I've ever played. Combine that with its stellar, deep gameplay, and one of the best narratives in all of gaming (and the 400 people that worked on this game), and you start to understand why Assassin's Creed II has been earning a lot of Game of the Year nods.

Overall Grade: A+

15 Most Anticipated Games of 2010

2009 is in its waning hours and the new year is upon us! Wanna know what you'll be spending all that Christmas money and gift cards on? Keep checking back every day as we reveal more of our 15 Most Anticipated Games coming out next year.(disclaimer: remember that these are only games that have already been announced as there will likely be a few more announced during the year!)

1. MASS EFFECT 2 developed by BioWare//published by Electronic Arts

Xbox 360, PC~~~Releases January 26, 2010

BioWare, the king of the RPG, is a busy studio these days. It just came out with Dragon Age:Origins and is still working on a pipeline of DLC for it. It has the Star Wars MMO looming in the distance. And in the foreground towers the sequel to arguably its best and most succesful game ever. Mass Effect 2 rectifies all the technical problems the original had and beefs up the entire combat suite. On the story side, BioWare's strong suit, you can continue your character from the first game with decisions you made back then immediately impacting the shape of the world for the dark second act. Mass Effect 2 is mere days away, and on January 26 a new standard for interactive narrative will again be set.

Cinematic Trailer

2. HALO: REACH developed by Bungie//published by Microsoft Game Studios

Xbox 360~~Releases Fall 2010

Bungie is back with the next full installment in the Halo saga. This is a full game, akin to a Halo 4 but actually taking place before the originally Halo when Spartan soldiers were still plentiful. Make no mistake, this game has been built from the ground up, so don't expect Halo 3+ like ODST was; once glance at the new trailer, which is all in game footage, will leave your jaw agape at just how damn good Halo looks.

VGA Reveal trailer

3. Tom Clancy's SPLINTER CELL: CONVICTION developed by Ubisoft Montreal//published by Ubisoft

Xbox 360~~Releases February 23, 2010

After a brief hiatus and a couple redesigns, Sam Fisher is back with a bang. Instead of your geared-up government techno-superspy, Fisher now takes on a role more akin to Jason Bourne or Jack Bauer; that is, he's a badass former operative on a personal vendetta. The gameplay looks much more fast paced and action oriented than its slothy predecessors, and when you throw in a 6-hour co-op prologue campaign, its hard not to get giddy about this game.

TGS 09 Developer Walkthrough

4. GOD OF WAR III developed by SCEA Santa Monica//published by Sony

PlayStation 3~~Releases March 2010

The first HD God of War is being billed as the third and final installment of a "trilogy". Needless to say that one of the best action games in the business is looking mighty fine in its PS3 debut. The series has delivered 3 AAA action games so far and there is no reason to doubt this one.

E3 09 trailer

5. STAR WARS: THE OLD REPUBLIC developed by BioWare//published by LucasArts/EA

PC~~~Release TBA

BioWare is back in the Knights of the Old Republic universe, this time in an MMO that they say has enough content to be "KoToR 5-9". While that remains to be seen, what has been shown of the game has impressed mightily. Known for their best-in-the-West storytelling, BioWare is applying that skill to creating an MMO where story takes on a relevance unlike any before. Also, this is a Star Wars MMO that looks really, really good. Just check the trailer below and see for yourself.

E3 09 Jedi vs. Sith cinematic

6. FINAL FANTASY XIII developed and published by Square Enix

Xbox 360, PlayStation 3~~Releases March 9, 2010

After over four years in development the first HD chapter of the Final Fantasy saga will be unleashed on North America (the PS3-only Japanese version is already out). Like any Final Fantasy game, it boasts top of the line graphical and audio design, a dramatic and engaging story, strong characterization, and hours upon hours of J-RPG pleasure. This is one of those games that is just going to be good given its pedigree and the amount of work Square Enix has put into it.

TGS 09 English trailer

7. BIOSHOCK 2 developed by 2K Marin, et al//published by 2K Games

Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC~~Releases February 9, 2010

The second trip to Rapture is being headed by a new studio founded by some members of the 2K Boston team that built the first game, including the lead level designer now serving as the creative director. You also play as the very first prototype Big Daddy, fight agile new baddies called Big Sisters, and there is even a whole multiplayer suite for when you close the book on Rapture for a time (note: you will be in different parts of the city, so don't worry about retreading the first game). Oh, and its kind of the sequel to the best game of all time. Just sayin'.

"Siren Alley" trailer

8. METROID: OTHER M developed by "Project M" (Team NINJA and Nintendo)//published by Nintendo

Wii~~Release TBA

The latest Metroid takes a new direction from Retro Studios' Prime series, this time being designed in collaboration by the team that made the excellent Game Boy Advance games and Team NINJA--the developers of Ninja Gaiden. Giving Samus her first 3D 3rd-person adventure is intriguing enough herself, but the influence on the combat system of one of the best teams in actions games makes Other M a must-play. In addition to all-new combat, Other M also appears to have a larger focus on story than previous iterations with full CG cutscenes. At the very least, it's an interesting way to shift direction for one of the best franchises in gaming.

E3 2009 "Debut" trailer

9. DARKSIDERS developed by Vigil Games//published by THQ

Xbox 360, PlayStation 3~~Releases January 5, 2010

You may not have heard of this game or studio, but if you're a comic fan you may know comic book artist Joe Madureira who is one of the leads on the project. The concept is simple: it's a dark, mature take on The Legend of Zelda formula mixed with a God of War-inspired combat system, all set in a port-apocalyptic modern world with a comic book aesthetic where you play as one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. If that was too much of a mouthful, just concentrate on the words "mature Zelda" and that should be enough for you anyway.

GTtv Preview

10. DANTE's INFERNO developed by Visceral Games//published by Electronic Arts

Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC, PSP~~Releases February 9, 2010

It has been called a God of War clone and that's not really a bad thing. The game is based on Dante Alighieri's epic poem The Divine Comedy and is in fact a God of War-style slice-em-up action game. The game takes players through the nine circles of Hell as Dante tries to rescue his girlfriend from an unintended fate. It comes from the studio that gave us Dead Space and if the just-released demo is any indication, this will be an early gem in the 2010 line up.

GTtv Preview

11. ALPHA PROTOCOL developed by Obsidian Entertainment//published by SEGA

Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC~~Releases Q2 2010

"The Espionage RPG", as its box deems it, is a fresh action-RPG made in the BioWare-influenced mold by a team that is basically BioWare B. Having previously worked on sequels to BioWare games including Knights of the Old Republic II and Neverwinter Nights, Obsidian brings us an original tale of a budding superspy, given players free reign over the way his clandestine skills evolve.

E3 2009 trailer

12. ALIENS VS. PREDATOR developed by Rebellion//published by SEGA

Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC~~Releases February 16, 2010

After the films turned out to be mindless and not very entertaining, developer Rebellion wanted to refocus the series back where it originated: in the realm of video games. Their HD effort features three campaigns: one for the Aliens, one for the Predator, and one for the Marines, each featuring distinctively different gameplay. The three types of characters also carries over into the game's multiplayer offering up a variety of unique modes and scenarios.

"Weyland-Yutani" trailer

13. SUPER MARIO GALAXY 2 developed and published by Nintendo

Wii~~Releases 2010

For the first time since the NES, Mario comes back for more platforming adventure on the same Nintendo system twice. The game picks up right after the first and continues with the inter-planetary gameplay. New for round 2 is the return of Yoshi as well as a promise from Mario creator Shigeru Miyamoto that the difficulty will see a bump to accommodate seasoned plumbers. Beyond that not much else is known, but keep an eye out for more news on it in 2010.

E3 2009 trailer

14. ALAN WAKE developed by Remedy//published by Microsoft Game Studios

Xbox 360, PC~~Releases June 2010

After nearly 5 years in development once its released, former Max Payne developer Remedy has a lot to live up to with its latest project. You play as the titular character, a horror writer who gets wrapped up in a mystery when his girlfriend disappears while the couple is on vacation and his writings start coming to life.

Director interview

15. FABLE III developed by Lionhead Studios//published by Microsoft Game Studios

Xbox 360~~Releases Fall 2010

In this third chapter of the Fable saga you play as the son or daughter of the main character in Fable II. You are also the ruler of Albion, taking over for your father or mother. In this game you will be able to influence the world as its sovereign leader and deal with dilemmas of choice and destiny.

"Debut" trailer

DON'T FORGET DOWNLOADABLE ADD-ONS!

You know all those games you got this past fall, either in gift-giving celebration or just by your own paycheck? Well, many of the biggest titles have downloadable add-ons coming out in the new year to extend your experience! For the biggest of beasts, Modern Warfare 2, one 360-exclusive map pack has already announced and more will surely follow. Dragon Age: Origins already has two expansions out--"Warden's Keep" and "Return to Ostagar"--and BioWare has promised a steady stream of new content will continue into 2010. Resident Evil 5 is getting a rebirth with its "Lost in Nightmares" and "Desperate Escape" expansions featuring new characters, while Assassin's Creed II will get at least two new genetic sequences (read: chapters) in "The Battle of Forli" and "The Bonfire of Vanities". Left 4 Dead 2 gets a new campaign in "The Passing" featuring the first game's cast and Valve has promised there will be no Left 4 Dead 3 any time soon with more plentiful DLC in its place. You can also travel back to the Borderlands with the already-released Zombie Island of Dr. Ned and the soon to be released Mad Moxxi's Underdome Riot. Finally, you can continue your Rock Band, Guitar Hero, or Lips addiction with a continued stream of songs. MTV Games is launching the Rock Band Network early next year which will allow artists to upload there own songs, so expect the amount of new songs to expand exponentially.

Review-- Modern Warfare 2

Let's get down to the facts: Modern Warfare 2 is the most-anticipated game of all time. This is not hyperbole, but an empirical fact, exemplified by the fact that it became the most pre-ordered game in GameStop's history as well as shattering just about every video game sales record there is. The game is so big that it has transcended the Call of Duty brand that birthed it (used purely as a marketing tool for the uneducated) to become its own monster. At the end of the day, Infinity Ward's money-printing blockbuster lives up to the hype, besting its predecessors in just about every facet of the game.

Right when you turn it on, you notice that Modern Warfare 2 has gotten a much cleaner tweak to its presentation, and the main menu appropriately splits into three distinct choices that reflect the three separate pillars of the game: Campaign, Special Ops, and Multiplayer. In accordance with this approach, my review will similarly be broken into those same three sections.

CAMPAIGN

Though ignored by many addicted to the genre-defining multiplayer, it is actually the campaign mode that made Call of Duty famous in the pre-Modern Warfare days. Infinity Ward created their first fictitious, non-historically-based campaign in Call of Duty 4 and the result was one of the best single player experiences in gaming. Likewise, i-dub had huge expectations for the follow-up (and their first direct narrative sequel), but the final product is without a doubt the weakest of the three pillars.

That is not to say that it is bad, because the campaign mode is anything but. It starts off a little bit slow but quickly evolves into a very fast and frenzied experience. Pacing is good and the difficulty and length of the levels is just right, including the signature Veteran difficulty mode. Each level offers its own unique twist to the overall game design and individually, each level is loads of fun and an incredible thrill ride from start to finish. Where the campaign suffers is in its incohisiveness. While the levels themselves are fun to play, from a narrative standpoint they make absolutely no sense.

The story is mostly conveyed through detached conversations on loading screens, but unless you read the Wikipedia plot summary you still won't be able to understand what the hell is going on. After you do figure it out (again, only thanks to Wikipedia), you realize that the muddled story is acceptable at best as it gets lost in its own plot twists and fails to ever develop any real sense of tension or urgency. It just all feels so fake and doesn't carry the realistic, this-could-actually-happen weight that Call of Duty 4's story had, not to mention the fact that it lacks a proper conclusion. All in all, the campaign is assuredly fun, but a poor example of video game narrative.

SPECIAL OPS

Special Operations (or Spec Ops) is the newbie in this trifecta of cool, but is a very welcome new addition to the formula. In essence, Spec Ops is a sort of challenge mode that blends the Campaign and Multiplayer sections. Spec Ops truly shines when played with another player in two player co-op, either online or on the couch, with some levels even splitting to two players into completely different, complimentary roles, such as having one player gun their way to an extraction point while the second lays down support fire from an AC-130 gunship. These levels all stand alone as mini-missions with no storyline to tie them together and just give you one goal that you need to accomplish in about 5 minutes, sans checkpoints.

Each mission has a certain amount of stars you can earn, based either on the difficulty you play on (Regular, Hardened, or Veteran) or, in some cases, meeting certain criteria (such as getting faster times on a snowmobile time trial). Missions are then grouped into packages of 5 missions, with only the "Alpha" group being available from the outset and the rest unlocking as you earn more and more stars. There are also many Achievements tied to this progression, and the short-but-sweet nature of the missions keeps you coming back to get those extra stars on the harder difficulties. Thanks to being a pure gameplay assortment, the missions all offer their own objectives and the variety is astounding, despite reusing many locales from the campaign. Flying solo on Spec Ops is okay, but played co-op, it becomes fantastic.

MULTIPLAYER

And here is perhaps the most important of the three pillars, at least in how it relates to the proportion of time spent playing this game. The still-industry-leading multiplayer from Call of Duty 4 is back, but improved in almost every conceivable way. The graphics have been given an upgrade and the beautiful levels are a sublime assortment, with only a couple duds and many that truly shine. This is by far the best assortment of levels in any of the Call of Duty games.

Loadouts have also been given a boost with the expansion of the gun roster and available attachments, as well as the explosion of the secondary weapon category to include many, many more options. A bunch of new perks have been added, as well as a whole slew of "equipment" in place of frag grenades, which are merely one option in that category. In addition, there is now a whole assortment of Killstreak Rewards to unlock with various streak requirements, letting you select any 3 to go into battle with. Deathstreaks have now also been added to give struggling players a boost when a match frustratingly doesn't go their way. As a little bonus, Infinity Ward has also created a system of "emblems" and "titles" to affix to your gamertag, rewarded based on the way you like to play the game.

The revolutionary experience system is also back, this time going all the way up to level 70, plus once again ten levels of "prestige". It has been tweaked somewhat, however, as most experience points have been multiplied by a factor of ten. There is also noticeably more experience required to actually level up, but this is balanced by a whole slew of new challenges, including many challenges that go far beyond just 3 tiers and into the 6 or 7 tier range. A host migration system has also been added to prevent matches from just ending when the host drops out or when they are really laggy.

Perhaps the only knock against the multiplayer is Infinity Ward's complete ignorance of the beneficial little tweaks Treyarch introduced in World at War. For example, you can't break down leaderboards by playlist to see how you rank against your friends in a particular mode. There are also no vehicles (though many would argue that's a good thing) and destroying enemy Killstreak Rewards doesn't give a boost to your team (although it does net you a little extra XP). These are extremely minor quibbles, however, and the multiplayer package in Modern Warfare 2 is leaps and bounds beyond anything in the market, including Halo and Call of Duty 4. This game is peerless in the multiplayer department, and that fact will show as numbers start coming out about the number of its players on Xbox LIVE as well as the sure-to-break-records map packs that will come in 2010.

CONCLUSION

Modern Warfare 2 is exactly what you'd expect it to be. It's Call of Duty 4, but improved in just about every aspect. The multiplayer alone is a tremendous value, the campaign is fun and does its job, and Spec Ops is an unexpected though very welcome new addition to the family. It is by no means flawless, but it is still everything you (and Activision) want it to be: the biggest blockbuster in the history of video games. Period.

Overall Grade: A+

Review-- Batman: Arkham Asylum

Batman: Arkham Asylum is a unique beast in the video game world. On the one hand, it follows a long tradition of licensed super-hero games, a genre one would think would translate very easily into the interactive medium. On the other hand, it bucks just about every convention of all superhero games before it, instead putting together an outstanding final product that is as much a thesis of action-adventure game design as it is by far the most outstanding translation of a revered superhero that players have ever seen.

The most common fault in superhero games is that lately they have tended to be based on the big-budget Hollywood blockbusters that they accompany. This leads to many inherent problems: a strictly-timed and limited development cycle, a smaller budget due to license fees for the movie as well as the hero, and trying to replicate a 1 1/2 hour spectator storyline into an 8 hour interactive one. Ultimately, games developed under these restrictions can never truly live up to the name slapped on their box. With the 2008 mega-epic blockbuster The Dark Knight, many were sure that a game based on the title would soon emerge with similar mediocrity to most "movie games". Surprisingly, a few months after the film came out, Eidos announced Batman: Arkham Asylum, a game having absolutely nothing to do with the movie and instead developed from the ground up for gamers using the classic comics as its influences.

Most games featuring tightly-clad heroes tend to feature open, free-roaming cities that attempt to give the player a feeling of freedom and power to go along with the character they control. The intrinsic flaw in this philosophy is that creating a huge city means you have to fill it with meaningful things for your hero to do, and no superhero game has ever come anywhere near the living, breathing open world featured in games like Grand Theft Auto. With Arkham Asylum, the developers at Rocksteady Studios instead chose to isolate the Dark Knight's adventure into the titular psychological penitentiary. This approach proves to be a fantastic idea as the game feels tight-and well-designed, all the while still giving you some sense of freedom and exploration with an island that is still big enough for you to want to discover its secrets, particularly the Riddler's 240 challenges strewn throughout the nooks and crannies. It's clear that from the very beginning, Rocksteady wanted to make a badass Batman game, not just a superhero simulator.

The game can easily draw comparisons to The Legend of Zelda and Metroid, as well as numerous other games, but the truth is, there is nothing else like it. What the folks at Rocksteady did so well is that they looked at succesful aspects of good games and implemented pieces of those proven designs into their own, cohesive experience. The result is a game that features the exploration and gadgetry-based progress of a Zelda or Metroid, the rhythm-based combat of a Fable or Assassin's Creed, backrground-filling audiotapes and overall eeriness of a BioShock, and its own blend of stealth, all with a Batman coating. The game even channels some Eternal Darkness-style breaking of the 4th wall to mess with the player, but you'll have to play it to see for yourself.

The game is incredibly well-paced, never feeling repetitive at any juncture, and constantly upping the ante as you progress and naturally get better at the game's conventions. The original story is compelling and well-presented through a combination of brief cutscenes, in-game chatter, controllable-but-herded sections, and even some brief conversations with Arkham guards. Sound design in Arkham Asylum is absolutely top-notch, with a powerful original score and some of the best voice acting in gaming, headlined by Batman: The Animated Series' Mark Hamill and Kevin Conroy reprising their roles as Joker and Batman, respectively. Oh, and the game is absolutely gorgeous.

Really enough cannot be said of just how well designed this game is, with respect to being a game and an experience in the Batman universe. Many big-name Bat-villains make appearances, including Harley Quinn, Killer Croc, Bane, Poison Ivy, and Scarecrow. On top of that there are constant allusions to just about every baddy the Caped Crusader has ever tussled with courtesy of the Riddler and his challenges. All the while, it works incredibly well as a game and the world has the cohesiveness of a linear FPS despite being semi-free-roaming. It is very clear that Rocksteady did their homework, and many other developers could learn a lot by following their cue looking at what other great games do so well and implementing their own subtle take on it.

Even once you finish the sublime main story, the adventure continues. You can go right back to Arkham and now that you have all the tools you have free reign so finish finding all the Riddler's clues. Doing so throughout the game will also unlock a fantastic challenge mode which is split into two types (Predator, a stealth-based mode where you take out armed guards, and Freeflow, where you fight waves of henchmen) that highlight the games two staple scenarios from the story. The Predator challenges are especially fun, letting the player use their own style of stealth-action to take down guards, and giving you certain ways you have to take them down in order to earn medals but all the while teaching you new methods. The game is so good you'll likely want to play through it again, and the Hard mode provides a great challenge, steadily increasing the difficulty from right where it leaves off on Normal. On top of all this, Rocksteady has provide a free DLC challenge pack, with more promised to be on the way.

Batman: Arkham Asylum truly makes you feel like you are the Dark Knight himself and provides an incredibly cohesive Batman game. Well-polished game mechanics and excellent pacing make a great story even more fun to play, and there are a lot of ways to dig deeper for those who are inclined to. The challenge mode, which at first glance seems like tack-on to artificially extend the game, proves to be fun and challenging in its own right and is a great addition. To put it bluntly, Rocksteady Studios absolutely knocked this one out of the park, and other suphero game developers--and for that matter developers in general, could really learn a lot from what they have done. Normally, a license like this means the game is cannon fodder for the masses; in Arkham Asylum's case, it is a jumping point for one of the front-runners for Game of the Year.

Overall Grade: A+

BestBuy selling great new PS3 Bundle

If you've been wanting to grab a a sleek PlayStation 3 but have been a bit hesitant due to its hefty price tag, Best Buy is preparing a great deal for you. Reportedly already in some stores and being shipped to chains nationwide is a new bundle package that features an 80GB PS3 for its usual $399 price tag but also includes two of the best exclusive games on the platform: Metal Gear Solid 4 and Killzone 2. Sony has seemed pretty adament in its refusal to drop the PS3 price, so this looks like one of the better deals people can grab if they are still looking to grab that glossy Blu-ray player.

[Image courtesy of Joystiq]

E3 2009: Roundup

Keep checking back at this page, which will be floated to the top throughout the week, to find the latest news on all the games at E3 in alphabetical order. Instead of cluttering up the blog with a mountain of trailers (on top of the two trailer posts already published), instead posted below will be links to trailers, gameplay videos, screenshots, and previews. Also be sure to check out the dedicated write-ups for the Big Three press conferences: Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo; these contain information beyond just the games. Oh, and rest assured that every game on this list shows potential; not to say that many of these won't end up being bad, but if they look bad already then they are not on this list.

Alan Wake (Xbox 360)

Description: The long-gestating supernatural survival-horror-action game from Max Payne 1 & 2 developer Remedy. Yea, that's a mouthful. Just watch the linked trailer, particularly the gameplay vid, to see whats up.

Videos: 'E3 2009' trailer, M$ Conference Gameplay Demo,

Preview: 1up,

Aliens vs. Predator (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC)

Description: A completely new take on the franchise(s) featuring gameplay from the Aliens, the Predators, and even Marines, as well as specific modes to take advantage of the different styles of paly.

Video: 'Teaser' trailer, 'Developer Walkthrough' Pt. 1, 'Developer Walkthrough' Pt. 2,

Preview: 1up,

APB: All Points Bulletin (Xbox 360)

Description: APB is an MMO being developed by Real Time Worlds, the studio that gave us Crackdown and headed by the man that created Grand Theft Auto. This game is along those lines, albeit in MMO form.

Videos: 'E3 2009' trailer, 'Customization' trailer

Preview: 1up

Assassin's Creed II (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC)

Description: The sequel to Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed, which garned heavily mixed reviews (for the record, I thought it was absolutely phenomenal). The second installment is set in 15th Century Italy, a.k.a. during the Renaissance, and reportedly the staff includes upwards of 400 people.

Videos: 'E3 2009' CG trailer

Preview: IGN, 1up

Batman: Arkham Asylum (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3)

Description: Finally, a really, really good looking superhero game, this one being set on the titular Arkham Asylum island, where Batman is trapped and the Joker has run amok and created havok. All sorts of other big Bat-villains are included, including Poison Ivy, Bane, Harley Quinn, and much more. Developer Rocksteady looks to have a hit on their hands come September, and props for doing a legit game rather than a Dark Knight cash-in.

Video: 'Infiltration' gameplay,

Bayonetta (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3)

Description: An action game from the new Platinum Games, makers of MadWorld and consisting of members of the former Clover Studios. This game is also being headed by Hideki Kamiya, creator of Devil May Cry and director of Resident Evil 2, Okami, and Viewtiful Joe. Kamiya has stated that he believes the action genre has not evolved since the original DMC and that his aim with Bayonetta is to truly revolutionize action games.

Video:

Preview: 1up

The Beatles: Rock Band (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii)

Description: Pretty self-explanatory... the title is a Beatles-focused Rock Band game. It will also feature Beatles downloadable songs post-release and supporting up to 3 microphones at the same time. It has also been confirmed that this is a separate entity from the "Rock Band Platform" (aka Rock Band 1 & 2), and thus downloadable songs will NOT be cross-compatible.

Video: 'E3 2009 Debut' trailer

Preview: 1up

BioShock 2 (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC)

Description: Developed by 2K Marin and set 10 years after the events of the first game, BioShock 2 puts you in the shoes of the very first Big Daddy prototype. The E3 presence seems to be focused more on the multiplayer aspect of the game, which is being handled by Digital Extreme, who's responsible for the PS3 port of the original.

Preview: 1up

Borderlands (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC)

Description: From Gearbox Software, perhaps most well known for its Brothers in Arms series. Borderlands isn't really anything like those game other than it is also an FPS, but Gearbox is positioning it as an open-world FPS infused with RPG elements such as character customization, weapon customization (over 650,000 potential permutations!), quest/mission-based gameplay, etc. Throw in the newly-implemented cell-shaded art style and you have one of the most unique games at the show.

Video:

Preview: 1up,

Brink (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC)

Description: The latest project from Splash Damage, perhaps best known for Enemy Territory: Quake Wars. The game focuses on multiplayer and features two campaigns: the Resistance and the Security Forces. The premise is a world where global warming has caused the seas to swallow up all the land save for one giant "megalopolis".

Preview: 1up

Brutal Legend (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3)

Description: The latest project from Double Fine and legendary designer Tim Schafer. It stars Jack Black as Eddie Riggs, a roadie trapped in a heavy metal-themed fantasy world. Other rockers, including Ozzy Osbourne, have been confirmed as cast members as well.

Video:

Preview: 1up

Castlevania: Lords of Shadow (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3)

Description: Another try at making a good succesful 3D Castlevania, but this one is taking a decidedly different approach. The legendary Hideo Kojima is overseeing the project, which is being developed in Madrid by Mercury Steam. Kojima claims that the title's goal is to re-envision the series, which from the trailer looks like a much more narrative-heavy, action-oriented affair. How it turns out should be interesting and its interesting how this new direction will compare to the more traditional attempts that failed.

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer,

Crackdown 2 (Xbox 360)

Description: The sequel to the open-world superhero cop game by Real Time Worlds, though this one is being developed by newly-established Ruffian Games.

Video: 'E3 2009' teaser

Crysis 2 (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC)

Description: Sequel to the PC-exclusive title known for its stunning graphics. Crysis 2 marks Crytek's first foray into console development and is being built on the brand-new CryENGINE 3, which promises to be "3 to 5 times" more realistic than Crysis' CryENGINE 2.

Video: 'E3 2009' teaser

Darksiders (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC)

Description: An under-the-radar game that turned many heads for those who tried it on the show floor. The concept is that you play as War, one of the Four Horseman of the Apocalypse that comes to Earth trying to find out why the end of the world happened without him. Gameplay-wise, its been described as a mature, violent, and slightly gothic take on The Legend of Zelda. That's one series you definitely want to be compared to. Save your holiday gift cards and ring in 2010 when it drops on January 1.

Preview: 1up

DiRT 2 (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC)

Description: The sequel to the late Colin McRae's hit rally racer, featuring a brand-new graphics engine. Look for this slick racer in September.

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer

Dragon Age: Origins (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC)

Description: Developer BioWare is using their experience creating the Baldur's Gate series to work in this brand-new fantasy RPG, set in an original world that could be described as similar to Lord of the Rings, though perhaps even darker (and definitely different).

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer

Fallout 3: Point Lookout (Xbox 360, PC)

Description: The fourth expansion to last year's best game. Watch the trailer to see the different vibe that Lookout is going for, then download it June 23. Also coming in late July or early August: the Mothership Zeta expansion, featuring aliens!

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer

Final Fantasy XIII (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3)

Description: Another long-in-development title, this one from Square Enix. A PS3 demo was recently released in Japan and Microsoft showed it running on 360 for the first time at its press conference. Look for it to finally hit in Spring 2010, following a Fall 2009 Japanese release.

Video: 'Microsoft Press Conference' running on 360 gameplay, 'Sony Press Conference' trailer,

Preview: 1up,

Final Fantasy XIV Online (PlayStation 3, PC, [rumored for Xbox 360 also but not confirmed])

Description: The latest Final Fantasy, this one an MMO and sequel to Final Fantasy XI, not to be confused with the "main" series entry FF XIII. Still funny that they will be released so closely, though. But where is Versus?

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer

Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: The Crystal Bearers (Wii)

Description: A new FF:CC for Wii, now featuring MotionPlus support. Other than that and the fact that its been in development for awhile, I don't really know that much, so just watch the trailer.

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer

Forza Motorsport 3 (Xbox 360)

Description: The latest entry in Microsoft's simulation racing series, which many have labeled as a direct answer to Sony's Gran Turismo (a very valid claim). The latest will hit in October and feature roll-overs, something notably absent from the GT series.

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer, 'Driver's Seat' Gameplay

God of War III (PlayStation 3)

Description: The third and final act of Sony Santa Monica's acclaimed action series, releasing in March 2010. Looks even bloodiers and gorier than the past entries, and one word pretty much sums it up: amazing.

Video: 'E3 Sony Conference' Gameplay demo,

Preview: 1up

Golden Sun DS (DS)

Description: The acclaimed RPG franchise re-emerges with a new title for Nintendo DS.

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer

Gran Turismo 5 (PlayStation 3)

Description: Facing stiff competition from Forza 3, Polyphony Digital's long-in-development racing sim now features NASCAR (perhaps why EA Sports stopped making them?) in addition to the usual rally cars and hundreds of production cars.

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer

Halo 3: ODST (Xbox 360)

Description: Read here if you wanna know exactly what it is. But basically, its an expansion for Halo 3 featuring a new campaign in which you do not play as Master Chief. It will drop September 22 and also include all Halo 3 multiplayer maps as well as a new set of 3, not to metion a beta key for...

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer, Microsoft Conference Gameplay demo

Preview: 1up, IGN

Halo: Reach (Xbox 360)

Description: ...this game. Microsoft announced it with a brief teaser at their press conference. All that's really known is that it's likely a prequel to the entire series set during the Fall of Reach. Personally, I believe this will be a full-fledged title in lieu of a "Halo 4" as opposed to an expansion like ODST.

Video: 'E3 2009' teaser

Jak and Daxter: The Lost Frontier (PSP, PlayStation 2)

Description: Not much to be said other than what is described in the title. It appears to feature a Jak before he goes all dark and weird in Jak II though.

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer

The Last Guardian (PlayStation 3)

Description: The latest project from Team Ico, the studio behind adored gems ICO and Shadow of the Colossus. This is the newest game in the series and looks equally as crazy.

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer

Left 4 Dead 2 (Xbox 360, PC)

Description: The sequel to one of the big games of 2008 will be released November 17. It will feature 5 new campaigns, new weapons, new zombies, all 3 modes available for the original and one unrevealed one on top.

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer

Preview: IGN

The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks (DS)

Description: Sequel to The Phantom Hourglass and once again featuring the art style from Wind Waker. The game promises to be less repetitive and uses a train system to get around the world rather than the boats.

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer

The Legend of Zelda 2010 [not actual name] (Wii)

Description: honestly, its easier if you just read this. Pray that they sack up and do require MotionPlus because it will be that amazing game fans were hoping for when the Wii controller was originally announced.

Madden NFL 10 (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii)

Description: What makes this year's Madden different? Well it features the new ProTak system for realistic blocking and gang tackles, as well as "co-op" franchise mode and a fully-online-enabled franchise mode that can even be managed via the web or an iPhone app.

Video: 'Online Franchise' trailer

MAG (PlayStation 3)

Description: Being developed by Zipper Interactive, the original makers of SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALS. The big feature about this game is that it sports 256 multiplayer action. That is not a typo.

Video: 'Sony Conference' demo

Mass Effect 2 (Xbox 360, PC)

Description: The sequel to BioWare's amazing 2006 sci-fi RPG, pegged to be released in "early 2010" (though given BioWare's track record, we may have to wait longer than that). Is Shepard dead or isn't he? Watch the trailers to find out.

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer

Preview: IGN

Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker (PSP)

Description: It's being worked on by Hideo Kojima himself and most of the MGS4 team as is positioned as a "true" sequel in the Metal Gear franchise, set 10 years after Metal Gear Solid 3 in 1974 and featuring Big Boss during his creation of Outer Haven.

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer

Metal Gear Solid: Rising (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC)

Description: The project that Kojima has been teasing for about a month, featuring Raiden. Presumably, the game is more action-oriented than its Snake-centered counterparts given the title's "Lightning Bolt Action" tagline instead of the usual "Stealth Espionage Action".

Video: 'E3 2009 Reveal' trailer

Metroid: Other M (Wii)

Description: A surprise announcement from Nintendo is this brand new game from Team NINJA, the folks behind the Ninja Gaiden and Dead or Alive franchises. This game looks to be much more action-oriented and the Japanese influence is definitely visible compared to Retro Studios' Prime series. Watch the trailer to see what looks a lot like a Metroid game that plays like Ninja Gaiden... though hopefully troublesome camera issues don't carry over as well.

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer

Interview: 1up,

Modern Warfare 2 (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC)

Description: The sequel to Infinity Ward's celebrated Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare. Really enough can't be said about this game, so just check out the videos below.

Video: 'E3 2009 Microsoft Conference' Gameplay Demo,

Preview: IGN

Need for Speed Shift (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3)

Description: A new direction for the NFS franchise featuring more realistic racing that is comparable to GRID or PGR. The game also emphasizes its cockpit view, and its being developed by the makers of GTR.

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer

New Super Mario Bros. Wii (Wii)

Description: A new 2D platformer featuring 3D graphics in the vein of the smash-hit DS title of the same name. On the Wii, the game will feature brand-new levels and 4-player co-op, though offline only.

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer,

Preview: IGN,

NHL 10 (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3)

Description: The latest entry in what has since 07 been a perennial Sports Game of the Year contender, the 2010 edition features full-on fighting and authentic board play.

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer

PROJECT NATAL (Xbox 360)

Description: Microsoft's revolutionary motion-sensing, voice-recognition, and visual-scanning technology. It's hard to grasp the significance without seeing it, so definitely watch the demo videos, ESPECIALLY the "Milo" demo. Its actual release is probably a ways off still, but check out the future potential of the Xbox 360.

Video: 'Debut' trailer, 'Ricochete' demo, 'Milo' demo [WATCH THIS]

Preview: IGN

Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time (PlayStation 3)

Description: The direct sequel to last years Quest for Booty, itself a mini-sequel to 2007's Tools of Destruction. In this adventure Ratchet continues his search for Clank with an unexpected source of help and finds out that he is not the only lombax left in the galaxy after all.

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer

Red Steel 2 (Wii)

Description: The sequel to the Wii launch title that was praised for its concept but lauded for its execution. This game will be bundled with the MotionPlus technology that is necessary to play it. Basically, the game features both swordplay and first-person shooting.

Video:

Preview: IGN

Scribblenauts (DS)

Description: Possibly the most impressive thing since sliced bread. Or at least Elite Beat Agents. Basically, think of a noun--any noun--no really, like literally any frickin noun you can think of. That object is in the game. Solve 220 environment-based puzzles using...whatever you think of. Need to chop down a tree? Use a chainsaw. Or a flamethrower. Or use a ladder to climb to the top. Or, crash an airplane into it. Anything you can think of. Impressive. Watch the videos.

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer, '1up @ E3' interview

Preview: 1up

Shadow Complex (Xbox Live Arcade)

Description: What seems to be the next big thing for the Xbox Live Arcade, courtesy of Epic-owned Chair Entertainment, better known as makers of Undertow. The game has been described as Metroid-esque and features detailed 3D graphics on a 2D plane, with 3D segments. The story is based on Orson Scott Card's Empire series.

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer

Preview: 1up, Joystiq

Splinter Cell: Conviction (Xbox 360)

Description: The fifth title in the Splinter Cell series has been completely revamped from the build shown 3 years ago. This new version of Sam Fisher is much more badass, brutal, and very reminiscent of Jack Bauer and Jason Bourne. It also appears to be more action-oriented, with stealh being a weapon rather than a restriction. Watch the videos below to see for yourself.

Video: E3 2009 Gameplay,

Preview: IGN

Star Wars: The Old Republic (PC)

Description: A new MMO by BioWare based in the Knights of the Old Republic era. BioWare describes the game as "KOTOR 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9..." and will feature various playable classes. The trailer linked is bad-ass. Watch it. Now.

Video: 'Deceived' Cinematic trailer

Preview: 1up,

Super Mario Galaxy 2 (Wii)

Description: Nintendo surprised the crowd at their press conference with the announcement of a sequel to the 2007 hit. Though no release date or window was given, the game does look pretty far along. Expect it this fall barring any major development hiccups. Oh and... Yoshi's in it!

Video: 'E3 2009' trailer

Tony Hawk: Ride (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii)

Description: Basically a reboot of the Tony Hawk series (since Skate blew it out of the water). The latest features a skateboard-like peripheral that you realistically interact on like a real skateboard.

Video: 'E3 2009 Skateboard Peripheral Reveal' Trailer

Uncharted 2: Among Thieves (PlayStation 3)

Description: The continuing adventures of Nathan Drake developed by the folks over at Naughty Dog. This time Drake is searching for the treasure of Marco Polo. In addition to the campaign, there will be 3 player co-op as well as a full-fledged multiplayer mode.

Video: 'Sony Conference' gameplay, 'E3 2009' trailer