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Globe-trotting with Geometry Wars 3: Dimensions
It wouldn't be fair to Lucid Games to say that Geometry Wars 3: Dimensions is "just more Geometry Wars," and then leave one's impressions at that. Announced just a few weeks ago, the game literally takes the series where it has never been, primarily thanks to new three-dimensional visuals (with a pun-tastic title to match). In all honesty though, calling it "more Geometry Wars" serves as a reassurance to the twin-stick series' devotees that its fast-paced action hasn't gone anywhere. My time with Geometry Wars 3 at PAX Prime in Seattle demonstrated that the game fits perfectly with its 2D brethren. Piloting the iconic, angular cruiser through galactic grids felt as tight as ever, while slipping past threats and rapidly firing laser-like bullets at geometric baddies is as chaotic as ever. It took a few attempts to get acquainted with the game's latest twist, though the enemy and bullet behavior is just that, a "twisted" version of the previous games. The flat grid-like playing field fans are used to is now a sphere, tube, pill, peanut or one of numerous other shapes, depending on which of the single-player mode's 50 levels you jump into. Every element in play is stuck to the surface like Nintendo's iconic plumber in Super Mario Galaxy, but ultimately Geometry Wars 3 draws some appropriate comparisons to Super Stardust HD. Missiles rocketed past my ship and around the bend of some levels, but aiming for the more distant neon creatures never felt like a real shot in the dark, if I'm allowed to make my own puns here.
Behind-the-scenes video basks in Geometry Wars 3's glow
We don't envy Lucid Games – the studio has a passionate fanbase to appease when it launches Geometry Wars 3: Dimensions this fall on Xbox 360, Xbox One, PS3, PS4 and PC. Fortunately, Lucid houses senior developers from now-defunct series creator Bizarre Creations, and it's clear that the team has some ideas on how to progress from 2008's GW2: Retro Evolved. In a behind-the-scenes feature posted after the break, Lucid Co-Founder Nick Davies and Creative Director Craig Howard describe what they have in mind for Dimensions, including boss battles, 3D battlegrounds and head-to-head multiplayer. Check the video to get a glimpse of those elements in action and to get reacquainted with your neon-hued geometric rivals! [Image: Sierra]
Geometry Wars 3: Dimensions twin-sticks with you
Late last week, Activision teased the return of longtime developer and publisher Sierra Entertainment, which birthed series like King's Quest, Space Quest, Police Quest and Gabriel Knight. The resurrection of the Sierra brand was not only confirmed earlier this week, but brought with it the announcement of two new games: new entries in the King's Quest adventure series and Geometry Wars twin-stick shooter series. The latter is Geometry Wars 3: Dimensions, and will be the first game to launch under the "new Sierra indie label," the game's description reads. It follows the fast-paced trend set by series creator Bizarre Creations, picking up the spacey, shape-shooting action where it left off in 2008's Geometry Wars 2: Retro Evolved. It will include "full 3D action" with competitive online multiplayer, a revamped cooperative multiplayer mode and "dynamic and persistent progression." The game's single-player campaign features 50 challenges and over 10 battle modes, five of which are new to the series. The publisher also introduced screens of Geometry Wars 3: Dimensions, which does not have a determined release date or platforms just yet. [Image: Sierra]
Report: Resurrected Sierra working on King's Quest and ... Geometry Wars 3? [Update: It's official!]
As expected, the newly reborn Sierra label will be returning to its roots, publishing a new entry in the revered King's Quest adventure game series, reports VentureBeat. Less expected is that Sierra will also be working on a new Geometry Wars. In fact, the Sierra name is slated to become something of an independent game label for Activision. Rather than producing games itself, Sierra will partner with independent developers to both retread cherished adventure classics and create new experiences outside of the company's legacy. The new "reimagined" King's Quest will be handled by The Odd Gentlemen, known for The Misadventures of P.B. Winterbottom and, more recently, the disappointing Wayward Manor. Meanwhile, Lucid Games, which has many members from former Geometry Wars developer, Bizarre Creations, will develop Geometry Wars 3: Dimensions. The new King's Quest is expected in 2015, while Geometry Wars 3 will arrive this holiday. Platforms haven't been specified, though Sierra is expected to publish games across Steam, PlayStation Network and Xbox Live. Update: Activision has confirmed Sierra's new direction, as well as the new entries in King's Quest and Geometry Wars. Find the official PR after the break.
Unauthorized Sierra adventure games portal Sarien.net ceases upon Activision order
Sarien.net, "the portal that once stood for reliving classic Sierra On-Line adventure games" (for free), has been shut down following a cease-and-desist order issued by IP owner Activision. The site's creator, Mr. Kool (real name!), has posted the letter from Activision's legal counsel on the Sarien homepage. "While we appreciate your dedication to the Sierra classic library and understand that you are a fan of these games, Activision has not authorized the development or distribution of these games via your Website," the order reads. "Accordingly, we must demand that you immediately cease any further distribution or exploitation of the Sierra Games on your Website." Kool launched Sarien way back in April 2009, but it seemingly took this month's implementation of iPhone and iPad browser support (for all of the site's AGI-powered games) for Activision to take notice. "Wait till you see my new World of Warcraft in javascript," Kool quipped in a tweet. "Oh wait, that's Activision too..." [Thanks, Ryan; image source: MobyGames]
50 Cent: Blood on the Sand sales pale to Bulletproof
50 Cent's latest game, 50 Cent: Blood on the Sand, hasn't been selling well, apparently. Kotaku reports the title has only managed to sell 1/12th as many copies as the rapper's first joint, 50 Cent: Bulletproof, which has sold nearly 1.2 million copies. The sequel has sold only 56,000 copies as of early April. Despite the fact it has received more critical acclaim than Bulletproof, consumers just don't seem to care about the trials and tribulations of a rapper chasing a crystal skull through the desert. Yeah, we don't get it, either. We just hope the sales turn around. We actually want 50 Cent to make his sequel ... as long as there are plenty more points to be had.
We ain't afraid of no ghosts, just cancellation
If there's something strange in your neighborhood, who ya gonna call? Ghostbust ... er ... well, maybe not.With the Blizzavision merger, a few Sierra titles (like Ghostbusters) may get the axe. When it comes to efficiency, Sierra has been deemed a "non-strategic business unit," which (we're sure we don't have to tell you) is not good. While the recently merged publisher reports that Sierra franchises like Crash Bandicoot and Spyro will be safe, the fate of Ghostbusters is still up in the air. Offering a bit of reassurance, Sierra claims, "[Ghostbusters] is not cancelled and will not be cancelled." Some words from the people with the money, though, would probably make us feel better.
E308: Crash Bandicoot crashes the party
We're not sure if this Crash Bandicoot: Mind over Mutant trailer embodies the spirit of the Crash we used to know and love, but we'll probably be giving this platformer some looks anyway. What we've heard so far sounds good, and as Wii owners, we like being catered to. Do you still have room in your heart to give Crash another chance? Or is this series long dead and buried in your mind? Gallery: Crash Bandicoot: Mind over Mutant
Video: All you wanted to know about Prototype
Gametrailers posted a four part series detailing all aspects of Radical Entertainment's Prototype and even included some new gameplay footage to boot. The first of four videos (embedded above) showcases some of main character Alex's abilities, how he uses his shape shifting abilities to kill and what destruction can be dished out. In the other three Prototype videos (viewable after the break) you'll hear the dev team talk about the game's Artistic Vision, Environmental Interaction and the Story of Alex Mercer. It's a lot of Prototype info, a lot to take in and we think you'll enjoy what the team has done with the game. Still, we wish they would have kept co-op ...
Spiderwick Chronicles for $7 on Amazon
The Spiderwick Chronicles may not be the best game ever, but $7 is a decent price for this fantasy game. Sure it has its faults, but such things are usually reconciled by cheapness. Since Spiderwick is an Amazon "Deal of the Day" (along with the PS2, 360, and Wii versions, which cost a little more), it's a "take it or leave it" type thing. We imagine that most of you will choose to leave it, but those who take it will probably be able to find $7 worth of entertainment in this license-based adventure RPG.
Mind over Mutant has Wii focus
Reading favorable impressions from the Joystiq crew about Crash Bandicoot: Mind over Mutant helped put the game onto our selective radars. Watching this video, which features the game's senior producer Kristen Forbes, then got us even more intrigued. Forbes points out a lot of issues that bug Wii gamers to no end -- the lack of commitment to the Wii's graphical capabilities, for one, and unnecessary waggle, for another. If the next Crash iteration can really fix these problems, though, we'll definitely be looking forward to the game's release this fall.
Prototype delayed to mid '09
We should really be used to delays by now. Just after we showed you a crazy video for Prototype, we've gotten word that the game is going to get pushed back into April of 2009. Well, the April part isn't "official" according to Sierra, but the 2009 is. As a spokesperson for Sierra said, "in the simplest explanation possible, we need more time to deliver the game the team initially set out to create." This also brings the possibility of multiplayer back onto the table for consideration, but it hasn't been confirmed as part of the plan yet. We'll keep you informed as news unfurls.
Prototype video displays parkour, body consumption
Oh my! We have a great video of Prototype to show you, but it is rated Mature, so we have to put it after the jump. The game, blending ideas from Assassin's Creed and Knights of the Old Republic and Grand Theft Auto and any number of similar sandbox and choose-your-destiny games, Prototype does still appear quite intriguing. Joystiq wrote up an impressive preview of the game for your enjoyment, so don't forget to look at what they said. Basically, the game is good but difficult to judge from a quick impression. We'll see if the game lives up to expectations when it hits later this year.%Gallery-12819%
World in Conflict: Soviet Assault video blends multiple genres
It's not every day you hear a game being touted as "genre-defining" ... it seems our "sarcasm keyboards" aren't quite working. Sure, we hear it all the time, but World in Conflict: Soviet Assault has an interesting mix of genre to get our attention, as well as Joystiq's. Calling itself an "Action-Strategy" game, it eliminates the need to build bases or collect resources -- you've mainly got to deal with fast-paced action and split second strategies.Imagine, if you will, an alternate Cold War where you're forced to battle the Soviets. The game boasts completely destructible environments and competitive online play (head-to-head and team-based) along with a hefty single-player campaign (from both the US and Soviet angles). In online play, you get your choice of a specialty: Infantry, Armor, Support, or Air. You'll get tweaked controls for console owners, offering more streamlined interfaces. In addition, a fully 3D camera lets you sweep around the world in any way you want as opposed to the typical isometric camera options.%Gallery-21782%
DC creates all new Prototype comic series
Sierra Entertainment and DC Comics have joined forces to bring comic book enthusiasts some new material to page through this August with the release of a brand new Prototype comic book series. Just in time for Prototype's Fall retail release! Details are extremely light, but here's to hopefully seeing a dark, gritty and bloody comic series full of twisted gore. One that has plenty of beautiful artwork, but is light on words. Because we all know that too many words make comics into books and that's never any fun. And because we always want to end a Prototype blog on a whiny note, we beg you Sierra, please bring back our Prototype multiplayer ... please?
The Bourne Conspiracy summer trailer proves not all spies are stealthy
While we continue to wonder how a licensed game can actually get us excited, we present to you the latest footage of Robert Ludlum's The Bourne Conspiracy. Released by Sierra Entertainment and High Moon Studios earlier in the week, the trailer shows off the seamless use of weapons and hand-to-hand content. There is however one concern, if you watch the trailer it appears that a portion of the gameplay will in the form of timed-button sequences (like Spider-man 3's cineratives). While we can't say for sure, the explanation of the Escape and Evade system makes us think that will be the approach the game will take. But we can't get too worried about a game that lets players take someone out with a book.
DS Fanboy Review: The Spiderwick Chronicles
Remember when you used to believe in the possibility of faeries, goblins, and other sorts of mythical creatures? If you do, games like The Spiderwick Chronicles probably appeal to you in some way, whether you like to admit it or not. Still, none of that means anything if these games based on fantasia aren't any good. Fortunately, that's why we're here – to review them.The Spiderwick Chronicles game is based on a movie, which is based on a book. While normally that spells a recipe for disaster, it becomes evident while playing this title that it's not just a quick cash-in attempt. Stormfront Studios clearly put a lot of time into the game's development, and tried to utilize the features of the DS to the fullest. That's not to say that Stormfront always succeeded, however.%Gallery-15994%
New Prototype video: New York City
To go with our new Prototype screens we hear by present a six minute video of the game, detailing it's environment, New York. A good portion of the video is fluff, but there are some tidbits that give us hope for the game. The team has some good creative ideas, but whether or not there is enough game underneath it all is currently unknown. The video promises a super-dense, constantly changing city, but for the most part we are shown concept art, and the longest snippets of gameplay are from the game's pre-alpha. The guys at Radical swear that they'll deliver on everything they've promised, and the game still does has potential, but in this form it almost seems to be living up to it's name.
Leisure Suit Larry's Gears inspired debut trailer
Last month, Sierra Entertainment announced that Leisure Suit Larry: Box Office Bust would be releasing to the Xbox 360 sometime in the Fall and since then, everyone has been on the edge of their seats waiting for a first glimpse of the game. And, this weekend, Sierra met Larry fans' demands by releasing an official Box Office Bust debut trailer. One that pulls a tiny smidgen of inspiration from a popular "Mad World" Gears of War trailer we all know and adore. We guess, if the formula worked before, why change it?Embedded above is the Lesuire Suit Larry trailer that's in question as we challenge you to try and spot the Gears references and nods. And really, it shouldn't be all that hard. Just be mindful of the shiny, bouncing, gold things at the end of the trailer. They will make you go blind.
World in Conflict for Xbox 360 pushed into 2008
Sierra has confirmed that the Xbox 360 port of Cold War era real-time strategy game World in Conflict won't surface until sometime in 2008. The game, which is currently available for the PC, was originally planned for release on the console this November. The jury is wide open to speculation as to the reason for the date change, though Sierra has offered no official reason for the delay. Interestingly, the shift follows last month's PC ship date announcement, which if you'll recall completely ignored the existence of the Xbox 360 alternative, though when pressed Sierra did tell us that the game "is still scheduled for this year," information that we know to be erroneous. Still, the PC version has been garnering impressive reviews so far, so we continue to hold out hope that Sierra's internal studio Swordfish, which is handling the console port, will deliver the goods someday. [Via Xbox 360 Fanboy]
