The release of Jet Grind Radio on the Dreamcast was the kind of game that defined that system and that era in gaming for Sega. It was almost a novelty; a flashy, cartoonish presentation and mechanics that, at the time, seemed fresh. It represented a time in the industry when games that were heavily focused on style were dominate. That time, however, has passed, and Sega’s HD re-release of that classic title shows it has earned its place in history, but is merely a relic of its time. READ MORE
When it comes to stealth games, it’s very easy to find yourself lost in the mechanics, taking every necessary precaution and being as careful as possible. I have a love-hate relationship with stealth games, but the ones I love I really love. I recently replayed Hitman: Blood Money for the first time in years. I was revisiting a franchise I consider one of gaming’s best in preparation for the upcoming release, Absolution, but also because I wanted to see how well I can handle a game of that nature. I’m not typically someone who goes out of his way to make sure every loose end is tied up in stealth games. I don’t prevent myself from getting caught or having anything come back to me when, once the mission ends, the game goes on regardless.
And yet, if the Hitman franchise has taught me anything, it’s that I, briefly, became a perfectionist. READ MORE
There was once a time when we had an abundance of new open-world action games released every few months. It seemed like we couldn’t escape them. Thankfully, the releases of have slowed significantly in the past year, leaving us with only a select handful every so often. The games we do see released are often unmemorable, with the exception of a few excellent action titles that excel beyond their basic premises. Sleeping Dogs is one of those games, taking the best of the best and adding a little bit of new, exciting flavor to the mix. READ MORE
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
