Sometimes I see people say they’re sick of games attempting an 8-bit (or 16-bit) style. I have to step back and think about what they are saying and why they are saying it. Developers often choose to design games, either just graphically or also mechanically, like the classics not because of a lack of budget but because that era represents a golden age in gaming history. Many developers find it appropriate to take their games back to that time and make their games have a retro look or feel. Sometimes it’s simply for nostalgic purposes, and others because they feel it is truly appropriate for the game they are creating.
It is a trend that continues to be an ever-present part of the industry and one that will most likely never die, and I couldn’t be happier. READ MORE
It surprises me when a new World War II-era game is released, but it’s a period in time that still interests a lot of developers and gamers alike. Damage Inc.: Pacific Squadron WWII is yet another flight game set in that particular era in history, and is attempting to win over fans of the genre thanks to its simulation controls and flight stick support. Unfortunately, it fails to do the most important thing: provide a fun and polished gameplay experience. READ MORE
The released version of Sound Shapes is a long way from the game we previewed last summer. The small and simple (but charming) launch-bound title was given about sixteen different coats of paint, some heavy-hitter music talent and a few more months to bring it all together. Oh, and Queasy Games also managed a PS3 version, with both versions available to anyone who purchases it.
These developments turn what would have been a great little game into a better, bigger game. READ MORE
Quality or quantity? That’s a more divisive question than you would expect, and a number of games are made each year that appeal to those who prefer each answer. Unmechanical is the kind of game that definitely prefers quality, and that’s a great thing. It’s only about a four-hour game, but any attempt to make it longer would be a detriment to the whole package. READ MORE
S2 Games has been in the industry for nearly a decade, making a name for itself with its FPS/RTS mashup series Savage. In 2010, they broke into the burgeoning multiplayer online battle arena genre with Heroes of Newerth. The game was given a free-to-play component in 2011, and just recently changed to a much more open, purely free-to-play model. We spoke with Shawn Tooley, chief operating officer of S2, about the company, views on the future of free-to-play and the state of Heroes of Newerth. READ MORE
