SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

News came out recently of a new iOS game developer that was being started by a fairly famous name.

Seamus Blackley, who was one of the co-creators of the original Xbox, has launched Innovative Leisure, and he’s brought along some old school game designers to help him out. Along with Blackley, will be former Atari game creators Ed Rotberg, Owen Rubin, Rich Adam, Ed Logg, Dennis Koble. Also along for the ride are non-Atari vets Tim Skelly and Bruce Merrit.

Blackley told VenturBeat that "We are looking at the new arcade, and 99 cents on the iPhone is the new quarter. People are playing on all these new devices and are finding the joy of the arcade games."

We hear at Press Pause think that this is incredibly awesome, and we can’t wait to taste the old-school flavor on our mobile devices. Bring it on!!

http://www.gametrailers.com/side-mission/2012/02/02/xbox-co-creator-launches-new-game-startup-with-atari-arcade-vets/

Story 2: 

Warren Spector is one of the most respected names in the gaming industry, with many awesome games under his built, such as the original Deus Ex and the recent love letter to Disney’s past Epic Mickey. Well at the upcoming Game Developers Conference, he will finally get his due.

At the Game Developer’s Choice Awards, Spector will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award that "recognizes the career and achievements of a developer who has made an indelible impact on the craft of game development and games as a whole."

Past winners include Lionhead Studios Peter Molyneux, Mario creator Shigeru Miyamoto, Metal Gear creator Hideo Kojima, and Civalization creator Sid Meier.

Spector, who is currently the head of Junction Point Studios, will accept the award in person at the GDCA ceremony on Wednesday March 7th.

http://www.gamespot.com/news/warren-spector-getting-lifetime-achievement-award-at-gdcas-6349767

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:   

The Xbox 360 has been PRETTY dominant this console cycle, and now it has finally become the top selling console IN THE WORLD!!!!

According to a story by our friends over at Destrutcoid, for the last quarter of the year, Microsoft sold 8.2 million Xbox consoles. That easily beats Sony’s total of 6.5 million and Nintendo’s 5.6 million. Total sales for the year are a bit closer, with Microsoft just edging out Sony with the 360 selling 14.9 million to the PS3’s 14.1. 

Now to put that in perspective though. If you look at lifetime sales, Nintendo is still the top dog with 95 million Wiis sold. But with Wii sales slowing down, Nintendo releasing the Wii U later this year, and new consoles from Sony and Microsoft STILL a few years away. It looks like there is still time for Microsoft to still become the dominant console of this generation.

http://www.destructoid.com/xbox-360-is-now-the-top-selling-console-worldwide-221052.phtml

Story 2:  

The Game of Thrones series of books are very popular, and the TV show was a BIG hit when it debut last year on HBO.

Well now it seems that fans of the George R. R. Martin fantasy series have something else to occupy their time.

Atlus games has announced that it will be releasing their Game of Thrones RPG on PC, Xbox 360, and PS3 on May 15th.

The game is being developed by Cyanide Studio, and will feature the town of Riverspring, which is dealing with the death of Lord Sarwyck. The game looks to have you playing as several different characters across parallel storylines as you deal with a threat to the kingdom of Westeros.

The game will drop about a month after the second season of the TV show starts. So if you are a fan on the series, and are looking for new RPG, then it looks like this could be a perfect fit.

http://www.shacknews.com/article/72316/game-of-thrones-rpg-coming-may-15

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:   

So if you are a Playstation Network member, you probably got an email on Monday stating that there would be some changes on the way for the system.

According to Sony, stating today, your account will no longer be called a Playstation Network account, but would instead be called a Sony Entertainment Network account. 

Now before you got and get worried that you’ll have to create a new name, or password, and go through a whole complicated process, Sony has said that this is just a change in name only. 

According to them, “This helps us get closer to our goal of establishing a global comprehensive network platform of services across games, movies, music, and more."

So I guess Sony is looking to create more synergy across their entertainment properties. Only time will tell if the move will be a good one.

http://www.gamespot.com/news/psn-accounts-undergoing-name-change-6349822

Story 2:  

So another politician is trying to attack violent video games, this time in Oklahoma.

Democratic state representative William Fourkiller (which is a fairly ironic last name don’t ya think?) has introduced House Bill HB 2696. This bill would levy a 1% tax on any video game that receives an ESRB rating of Teen, Mature, or Adults Only. This is on top of any other existing sales tax. The money raised would go to create two new funds: one to get youth involved in outdoor activities, and one to with bullying prevention.

According to Fourkiller, games are a major cause of obesity and bullying in our society, but since they make a lot of money, could be part of the solution.

Of course, the game industry isn’t taking this lying down. Dan Hewitt of the Entertainment Software Association says that he is disappointed that politicians are still trying to attack gaming in a way that is patently unconstitutional. He also said that "Taxing First Amendment protected material based on its content is misguided."

So a lot of politicians REALLY don’t like violent video games. They keep trying to control them, and it always ends the same way. You’d think they would learn their lesson by now.

http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/40065/Oklahoma_bill_proposes_extra_tax_on_violent_games.php

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

GAME 1: Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning

First up we have Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning. This game is a single player action role playing game that has some heavyweight talent behind it, starting with lead designer Ken Rolston, who worked on The Elder Scrolls 3 and 4. Also involved was fantasy author R.A. Salvatore, who created the game’s universe, and comic legend Todd McFarlane who created the artwork.

The game itself will feature unique real-time combat with a in depth character creation system, that features many races and character customization. There are millions of skills, abilities, weapons, and armor to choose from. It has a beautiful open world, and features a Destiny System that will change the game depending on how you built your character, and the items you have equipped.

Combat will depend heavily on how you’ve designed you character, and there are also unique special attacks that are based on the type of weapons you have equipped.

If you love your role playing with a big side of action, then this sounds like just the game to scratch your RPG itch.

GAME 2: Resident Evil: Revelations

Next up we have the latest entry in the long running Resident Evil series making it’s way to the 3DS.

Resident Evil: Revelations features a brand new story set between the events of Resident Evil 4 and 5, and will feature series favorites Chris Redfield and Jill Valentine. Shortly after the creation of the Bioterrorism Security Assessment Alliance, a major bioterrorism event happens and the BSAA is called to investigate. The game looks to bring the classic survival horror gameplay of earlier games, with action taking place aboard an infected ocean liner among other locations.

The game will make use of both the 3DS systems 3D visuals, as well as using the touch screen to help solve puzzles.

If you own a 3DS and are looking for some good creepy fun. This might be just the game for you.

GAME 3: The Darkness II

Next we have the sequel to the surprise hit game based on the Top Cow comic book series The Darkness.

The Darkness II again has you playing as Jackie Estacado, who has now become head of the Franchetti crime family, and has contained the power of the Darkness. Now that power wants out and there are also other who want the power for themselves, and will stop at nothing to obtain it. All of this precipitates a full scale Mob war, with you right in the middle of it.

As with the last game, this is a first person shooter, and you had the ability to use weapons or your Darkness powers to take out your enemies. This time, the developers have added what they are calling quad-wielding, which will allow you to use both weapons and Darkness powers at the same time.

There will be many weapons and powers for you to use, and the game will also have multiplayer options including a 4 player co-op mode called Vendettas that will run parallel to the main single player story.

With it’s intense comic book story telling, and distinctive noire visual style, The Darkness II could be a nice little FPS palate cleanser for those of you still playing Call of Duty.

GAME 4: Gotham City Impostors

And lastly this week we have an interesting downloadable title that sounds completely ridiculous, but awesome at the same time.

Gotham City Impostors is a multiplayer-only first person shooter that pits two teams against each other as they try to kill each other. The twist is that one team is dressed as Batman, the other as The Joker. Like I said...ridiculous, but awesome.

The game will have eight player simultaneous gameplay, and has a over the top visual style. The game will feature traditional weapons, like guns and knives. It will also have more outlandish weapons like a jack in the box grenade, and a rocket launcher made of PVC pipes. You’ll also have access to many gadgets such as grappling hooks, glider wings, and roller skates.

This sounds like something that could be really dumb fun. And as a $15 downloadable title, it sounds like an easy choice.

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

A lot of really cool and interesting games are released every year in Japan, and very few of those find their way to the US. Well it looks like one UK company is trying to change that.

The company, called Rising Star Games, has been successfully bringing Japanese games to Europe for several year, and they have just opened their first US offices. The first game that the company will be bring to our shores is a game called Akai Katana, which will come to the Xbox 360 sometime in Q2. Red Star has also created another company that will handle digital download releases.

Hey, we are all for more cool games making their way to the good ol’ US of A. Here’s hoping that these guys are successful, so we can get many more.

http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/rising-star-games-cracks-america/090323

Story 2:  

Saint’s Row publisher THQ is have a rough run recently. The company is currently trying to move away from licenced kids games to more adult fare. As such they made a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission that they would be laying off 240 employees, mainly in the administrative areas of the company.

THQ also announced that CEO Brian Farrell would take a 50% paycut, as well as a reduction in his compensation package, should he be let go.

And the final blow came when the company received a notice from the NASDAQ that if their share price did not rise to above to at least $1 for 10 consecutive days by July 23rd, the company would be delisted and removed from the market.

The company has some good games, like Saint’s Row, UFC, and Darksiders. It would be a shame if the company folded. Here’s hoping that they can turn things around.

http://www.gamespot.com/news/thq-layoffs-hit-240-ceo-takes-50-pay-cut-6349587

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

After a lot of rumor and speculation, it was announced on Wednesday that current Sony Executive President Kazuo Hirai would become the President and CEO of the whole of Sony Corporation, starting April 1st.

Kaz joined Sony’s music division back in 1984, but his star really began to shine when he moved over to Sony Computer Entertainment. He was instrumental in turning around the Playstation division, and has a long legacy of managing the successful Playstation brand.

Kaz said in the announcement that "I am grateful to Sir Howard and to the Board for their confidence in me, and I look forward to working with everyone at Sony more closely than ever before to build a strong future for our customers, shareholders, partners and employees."

Kaz will replace current President and CEO Sir Howard Stringer, who is in line to become Chairman of Sony’s Board of Directors starting in June. 

http://www.shacknews.com/article/72255/kaz-hirai-becomes-sony-president-on-april-1

Story 2: 

We end this week with a bit of fun news. The Super Bowl is this coming Sunday, and as with every year EA Sports has predicted the winner using it’s own Madden football game. And this year the winner is.....

Well, according them, the winner of Super Bowl 46 will be the NY Giants. When EA Sports ran the game through last year’s edition of the Madden game series, the outcome had the Giants squeaking out a win with a score of 27-24. 

According to the story on ShackNews, the game ended in dramatic fashion, with Lawrence Tynes kicking a last minute 40-yard field goal for the win. The in game MVP for the game was Eli Manning, with 25 completed passed out of 39, 3 touchdowns, and one interception.

So there ya go....you now know who will win this Sunday, but before you head out to make a last minute bet, you should probably know something. While Madden has been pretty good at picking the winner of the game, it doesn’t quite get the point spread right. Something to consider.

http://www.shacknews.com/article/72219/madden-nfl-12-predicts-giants-for-super-bowl-win

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:   

A new game in the Assassin’s Creed franchise is coming later this year, and there are already rumors about where the story will take place this time. The last game, Assassin’s Creed: Revelations, closed the book on the story of original protagonist Altair as well as the last few games main character, Ezio Auditore. According to a story on the computerandvideogame.com website, the historical setting for the next game will take place during the American Revolution.

There are a few clues during the last couple of games that point in this direction, as well as a survey last year where, Ubisoft asked players where they would like to see the series go to next, and the American Revolution was one of the choices. The choice would be a very interesting one, as it would allow the player to interact with many historical people of the time. This could include George Washington, who is said to hold one of the game’s mysterious Pieces of Eden.

I know a lot of gamers are looking forward to the next installment of this series, and these rumors sound like it could be pretty awesome.

http://www.computerandvideogames.com/333754/assassins-creed-heads-to-american-revolution-rumour/

Story 2:  

So Star Wars: The Old Republic has been out for a little over a month, and lots and lots of gamers are loving it. They really seem to like the freedom that BioWare have given them to play however they want to. And it’s that freedom that has the game under fire from a conservative religious website.

The Family Research Council have condemned the game for letting players have their characters get involved in same-sex relationships. According to them, it sends the wrong message to young people who might be playing the game, and say that BioWare should not allow the content in their game. This isn’t the first time that BioWare has allowed characters in their games to have same sex relationships. Gamers could do so in both the Mass Effect and Dragon Age games, so it’s hardly a suprise that the company would allow it here as well.

As for the Family Research Council, they are a conservative lobbying organization that have a long history of going after thing in pop culture that show the LGBT community in a positive light, especially when it comes to matters of same sex marriage.

In the end, I doubt that gamers will spend any time at all caring about what other people feel about their games, and how they choose to play them.

http://www.gamespot.com/news/star-wars-the-old-republic-denounced-for-gay-relationships-6349403

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:   

Nintendo has lagged behind both Sony and Microsoft when it came to connecting gamers online, but it looks like that is about to change.

Last week Nintendo announced their new online effort, called simply enough the “Nintendo Network”. This new network will cover both the 3DS and the upcoming Wii U console, and will give Nintendo gamers features more in line with both PSN and Xbox Live.

Like those systems, the Nintendo Network will eventually offer a user ID system that gives gamers personal accounts, abandoning the current system that uses Friend Codes. Their hope is that multiple family members will be able to use the same system.

Also on the horizon, Nintendo will be able to sell digital downloadable games and DLC, and it also looks like while they won’t use microtransactions on any of their games, they won’t block third party developers from doing so.

So...it’s been a long time coming, but it looks like Nintendo is learning from it’s mistakes and trying to step up their game when it comes to their online experience. Only time will tell if they are successful.

http://www.shacknews.com/article/72188/nintendo-network-announced-will-offer-user-accounts-dlc-more

http://www.shacknews.com/article/72216/nintendo-network-will-allow-microtransactions

Story 2:  

The Ace Attorney games are very popular, and Capcom recently announced that they are in development of the 5th game in the series. So far no release date or platform have been announced yet, but there is sure to be more information soon. 

At the same event, which was held to mark the 10th anniversary of the series, Capcom also announced that they would be bringing the first three games in the series to iOS and Android devices in a new HD remake that will feature new higher resolution artwork. And Capcom has stated that if users had already purchased an earlier mobile release of the game, they would be able to download these new versions for free.

If you love this series then you shouldn’t OBJECT (Ace Attorney pose) to new games to play. Here’s hoping we don’t have to wait TOO long for more information about the next game.

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-01-30-capcom-announces-ace-attorney-5-in-development

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

GAME 1:

First up is the sequel to Square Enix’s 2010 entry in the long running Final Fantasy Series. Final Fantasy XIII-2 picks up three years after the end of the last game, with series protagonist Lightning having disappeared into another world. The game will feature Lightning’s sister Serah as the main character, as she searches for her older sister. There is also a little bit of time travel that will be involved in the search. The game will feature many of the gameplay elements of the last game, along with a variation of the Active Time Battle system.

Bottom line, if you love role playing games, especially ones with Final Fantasy in the title, then this is an obvious buy.

GAME 2:

Next we have the latest entry in the long running Soul Calibur fighting franchise.

Soul Calibur V takes place 17 years after the end of the fourth game, and features many new characters, many of whom are the children of previous characters. There is also a guest character in the form of everyone’s favorite Assassin, Ezio Auditore from the Assassin’s Creed games.

Some of the gameplay mechanics that bogged players down in the last game have been removed. There is also a thorough character creation and customization tool. There are multiple fighting styles, as well as 20 different stages to battle in.

Added to all that is competitive computer AI, as well as the ability to battle your friends and foes alike from around the world with the game’s massive online features.

The stage of history has been set again....do you have what it takes?

GAME 3:

And lastly we have a very interesting action game from Konami called NeverDead.

This game features a wise cracking demon hunter named Bryce who was cursed with immortality 500 years ago by the demon king Astaroth. Now in modern times, he hunts down demons for money and revenge.

The gameplay makes use of the main character’s immortality by letting the player survive horrendous injuries. Over time your limbs will fall off, and you’ll need to roll over them to reattach them. You will also have a human female partner who isn’t immortal, so you will need to make sure to protect her from harm, even if it means taking damage yourself.

Add to this a large combination of guns and other weaponry to help take care of your enemies. All in all it sounds like a very interesting take on the action game genre, and could be a lot of fun.

Add to that music from heavy metal titans Megadeth, and you’re sure to be in for one kick-ass of a time.

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

So the financial news isn’t looking to hot for Nintendo. The company recently readjusted their financial forecast for the last fiscal year, and it’s looking a bit grim. Nintendo stated that their expected loss for the year has grown from their original estimate of $258M to a much worse $839M.

Now it’s not ALL bad news. Since the launch of the 3DS handheld, the company has sold over 15 million units, 11 million of those during the last nine months of 2011. Also sales of the latest Legend of Zelda game were very strong, especially in the US. There is also news that the Wii U will release before the end of the year.

Here’s hoping that Nintendo can turn things around.

http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/nintendo-enhances-expected-loss-15-million-3ds-units-sold-since/

Story 2:  

Last Thursday, Warner Bros announced a release date for the Xbox 360 port of the popular PC game The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings.

The game will come out on April 17, and will feature all of the previously released content as well as brand new content. Developer CD Projekt Red has also said they plan to support the game post launch with more content, and will update the game based on user feedback.

The Witcher 2 was one of 2011’s more popular games, and gamers have been patiently waiting for the console port to arrive, and it looks like all of that patience will finally be rewarded.

http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/the-witcher-2-on-xbox-360-includes-new-content-more-coming-post/

http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/the-witcher-2-release-date-360/

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

So we’re hearing some rumors about the next xbox console, and they’re PRETTY juicy.

According to reports, the next Xbox system will launch toward the end of next year, and will have some very impressive specs.

The reports also state that the new system will be six times more powerful than the current system. The graphics processor will be based on AMD 600 series, and will support Direct X 11, 1080p HD, multi-display output, and 3D. The system will include a Blu Ray disc drive, and will introduce the next version of the Kinect sensor with it’s own built in processor which will allow it to better detect users movements.

But the most interesting rumor is that Microsoft will incorporate an anti-used game system into the console which will prevent users from playing second hand games on the system.

Those are some PRETTY interesting rumors, but we should stress that all of this is just speculation at the moment. I’m sure we will probably find out more about it at this year’s E3.

http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/report-next-gen-xbox-to-launch-october-november-2013-with-this/

http://kotaku.com/5879202/sources-the-next-xbox-will-play-blu+ray-may-not-play-used-games-and-will-introduce-kinect-2

Story 2: 

So Blizzard fans, I’ve got some bad news for you.

Blizzard announced that it would not be hosting it’s annual BlizzCon event this year, and is instead be bringing it back next year. 

According to a post on their blog, they stated that the reason for this was because the company was that their schedule was so busy, that they just wouldn’t be able to host the popular event.

I suppose that’s true, what with Diablo 3, the Mists of Pandaria WoW expansion, Heart of the Swarm, and the “Titan” MMO, they do have A LOT on their plate.

So we know that this is a little disappointing for Blizzard fans, but I think it’s a better use of their time to make sure that the GAMES are as awesome as they can be. We can always go next year.

http://www.gametrailers.com/side-mission/2012/01/25/blizzard-skipping-blizzcon-in-2012/

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:   

According to a recent listing on the ESRB website, the classic PS2 games Grand Theft Auto 3 and Vice City will be making their way to the Playstation Network store soon.

No word yet as to when the games will arrive, or what the prices will be, but it appears that they will be straight ports of the PS2 games, and not HD remakes. Also, no word about whether the third GTA game, San Andreas would be coming to the PSN as well, but it would seem like a no brainer.

So if you’ve never played the games, or want to take a nostalgic trip back, these games could be just the thing to while away the hours...Or relieve some stress.

http://www.shacknews.com/article/72103/grand-theft-auto-3-and-vice-city-rated-for-ps3

Story 2:  

A couple of weeks ago we mentioned the games that would be coming to this year’s Xbox House Party, and now we can official tell you the release dates and prices for all four games.

The promotion will start on February 15th with Warp for 800 Microsoft Points. Next up is Alan Wake’s American Nightmare on February 22nd for 1200 points, Nexuiz on February 29 for 800 points, and finally I  Am Alive on March 7 for 1200 points.

As as an added bonus, if you purchase all four games during the four week promotion, Microsoft will give you an additional 800 Microsoft Points.

Not a bad deal really...it’s almost like getting Warp or Nexuiz for free. And free is good.

http://xboxlive.ign.com/articles/121/1217032p1.html

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:   

So there is a documentary about indie gaming that just premiered at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, and now a major Hollywood producer is looking to turn it into a TV series.

Indie Game: The Movie from Lisanne Pajot and James Swirsky, has been optioned by producer Scott Rudin to be developed into a half hour fictional series. The documentary follows the developers of the games Fez, Braid, and Super Meat Boy as they struggle to make their games, which could translate well to a dramatic series.

Rudin, who is the high profile producer behind the recent David Fincher films The Social Network and The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, plans to bring the series to HBO. 

http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/22/indie-game-the-movie-the-hbo-comedy-series-produced-by-scott/

Story 2:  

Back in December, we reported of an upcoming game based on the Doctor Who television series, and now we have our first look at the game.

Doctor Who: The Eternity Clock will feature the 11th Doctor along with fan favorite River Song as they once again try to save the universe. The game looks to have third person side scrolling gameplay, and according to the new trailer we now know what enemies The Doctor and River will be facing.

The game will feature classic villains such as the Cybermen, Silurians and the Daleks, as well as more recent enemies The Silence.

The game drops in March for the PS3 and the Vita. If you’re a Doctor Who fan, grab your Sonic Screwdriver and head for the TARDIS.

http://kotaku.com/5878401/exterminate-heres-your-first-look-at-the-doctor-who-game-in-action

http://blog.us.playstation.com/2012/01/23/creating-monsters-for-doctor-who-the-eternity-clock/

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

Games today can sometimes seem like not such a big deal. With multiple difficulty settings, checkpoints and the like, it seems games can be to easy. Sometimes you just want a challenge.  For those people, Irrational Games has just the thing.

The developer announced that their forthcoming game, Bioshock Infinite, will feature what they are calling “1999 Mode.” This mode is a callback to a time when games were a lot harder, and gamers had to REALLY work to beat their games.

This optional new mode will force gamer to make hard choices, as now their choices will have permanent consequences. Gamers will also have to pick a specialization at the beginning of the game, and then stick with it through the whole game. Resource management will also be very important to your survival. 

So, you’ll probably want to save  A LOT. As Irrational Games Creative Director Ken Levine said: “there are game saves, and your gonna fucking need them.”

http://kotaku.com/5877468/permanent-consequences-up-bioshock-infinites-difficulty-like-its-1999

Story 2:  

The Dance Central games have become pretty popular with Xbox 360 owners, and now it seems that you’ll be able to take the dancing fun on the go.

Called the Dance Cam, this new app lets you record video of themselves dancing to one of several songs. The video will then be dancified, creating a music video of you and your funky dance moves. The subsequent video can be uploaded to Facebook, and you can also challenge your friends to a dance contest, with your Facebook friends determining the winner.

So if you love Dance Central, and don’t mind sharing your super dope moves for the world to see, then why not download the app. It’s available now for Windows, Android, and iOS mobile devices.

http://www.shacknews.com/article/72079/dance-central-dance-cam-app-goes-live

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

Last fall, Nintendo told gamers that they would bring game demos to the 3DS. Now finally it looks like they are doing just that.

Starting this week gamers will be able to download a demo for the forthcoming entry in the Resident Evil franchise: Revelations, and it looks like this is only the beginning.

This will be followed next week with Mario and Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games. Future games mentioned also include Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater 3D and Rayman: Origins.

While this is definitely a step in the right direction for the system, Nintendo has stated that these demos would be appearing periodically. 

http://www.gamespot.com/news/3ds-demos-debut-with-resident-evil-revelations-6348773

Story 2:  

And speaking of Resident Evil, news came out at the end of last week about the next console entry in the series.

Resident Evil 6 will be released this coming to November for PS3 and Xbox 360, and a short time later to PC.

The game looks to bring back what looks like more traditional zombies to the series, as well as expanding the scope of the game, with locations including the US and China.

The game will feature series favorites Chris Redfield and Leon Kennedy, as well as an as yet unnamed male mercenary.

The game looks really good, but then again so did the last entry in the series, and a lot of people were disappointed in that game. 

Here’s hoping that this new game will change their minds.

http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/resident-evil-6-re-revealed-by-capcom-arriving-november-20-on-3/

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

There has been a big fight over the last few years over whether games can be considered art. In my opinion, that fight has now been rendered mooooooot!

The Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, D.C. is hosting an exhibit called The Art of Video Games: From Pac-Man to Mass Effect we are bound to see a lot of classic and unique video-game artists. 

The exhibit will launch on March 16th, this exhibit will be three days of panel discussions with game industry veterans such as founder Nolan Bushnell of Atari. The exhibit is featuring retrospectives and movie showings such as Tron, and The King of Kong.

In the announcement, guest curator Chris Melissinos stated that “Video games are increasingly expressive and a prevalent medium within modern society...In the 40 years since the introduction of the first home video game, the field has attracted exceptional artistic talent.”

I’m curious to know who the critics are claiming this not to be art? Picasso and Mattisse snobs with their noses in the air. Come and face reality suckers! (arrow to the knee meme?) 

The exhibit will run until September 30th, after which it will head out on the road. 

http://www.shacknews.com/article/72024/smithsonian-preparing-art-of-video-games-opening

Story 2: 

Now when I say Katy Perry what’s the first thing that pops into your head?

Talented singer? Interesting videos? Russell Brand?

How about video game maker? No?...yeah me either.

Well it looks like Ms. Perry is getting into the game business with a recent report that she has entered into a partnership with Electronic Arts to create multiple games in the company’s popular Sims franchise.

The first collaboration will be a collector’s edition of the upcoming Sims 3 expansion called Showtime, which will include many Katy Perry themed items for your Sim, including clothing, hair, a guitar, and stage props.

Katy will also star in new advertising for the series, and is pretty psyched to be involved with the game. She said “I always like to think of myself as a cartoon, and now I'm a Sim!"

You know, I am actually at a loss for words.

Well anyway, if you are interested in a little more pop in your Sims, the expansion will release sometime in March.

http://www.shacknews.com/article/72028/katy-perry-items-to-star-in-multiple-sims-games

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:   

Here at Press Pause, we are big fans of indie games. So when good things happen to an indie release, we wanna tell you about it.

Toxic Games, makers of the recently released Portal-esque game Q.U.B.E, announced this week that they were able to recoup their full development cost in the game’s first four days on sale.

Toxic was one of the first developers to take part in the Indie Fund, which helps independent game makers fund their games. They ended up investing $90,000 in the development of Q.U.B.E., which was doled out in chunks. The folks at Indie Fund say that their investment was worth it and “that that investment paid off with 12K sold copies since the game launched last week.”

It seems that Toxic is already discussing possibly moving Q.U.B.E. beyond the PC. Lets hope that means an XBLA or PSN release in the near future.

http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/16/q-u-b-e-moves-12k-copies-in-first-four-days-recouping-full-ind/

http://indie-fund.com/2012/01/q-u-b-e-recoups-investment/

Story 2:  

Well it looks like the internet is victorious in it’s battle against the Stop Online Privacy Act, at least for now.

A report has come out that states that the legislation that had been making it’s way through the US House of Representatives has been indefinitely shelved, and will not be coming up for a vote on the floor of the House.

On the official Committee on Oversight and Government Reform site, committee chairman Darell Issa posted a statement stating that SOPA would “not move to the House floor this Congress without a consensus."

While this is a good day for the internet, the fight isn’t over yet.

Let’s not forget that the US Senate has it’s own version of the legislation called the Protect Intellectual Property Act.

Let’s hope the same fate awaits it as well.

http://www.gamespot.com/news/congress-shelves-sopa-6348670

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

The launch of the Playstation Vita is rapidly approaching, and one of the most anticipated games coming to the system is Ruin. This action RPG lets you play across both your Vita and your PS3 with the same save. 

Well according to a story on IGN, Ruin is Ruin no more. News has come out that the game will now be called Warrior’s Lair. This isn’t a large surprise to most since it was already know that Lair was just the working title for the game.

Which begs the question: Is Warrior’s Lair a better name than Ruin?

As long as the came still kicks major ass, I could care less what they call it.

http://uk.vita.ign.com/articles/121/1216315p1.html

Story 2:  

We’ve been talking recently about the upcoming release of the XBLA game Alan Wake’s American Nightmare. Well here are some new details about the game.

Developer Remedy recently dropped some details about the game’s plot, as well as information about the game’s length.

The story involves the in-game Twilight Zone-esque show Night Springs. It seems that early in his career, Alan Wake wrote episodes for the show. He has now become trapped in one of those episodes, which takes place in Arizona.

Remedy also stated that the full game should take gamers about 4 to 5 hours to play. They said it might take a little longer depending on how much of the optional story content they want to explore.

All of this just makes me want the game more than ever.

February can’t get here fast enough.

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-01-13-alan-wakes-american-nightmare-is-4-5-hours-long

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

Many game companies are seeing a lot of success offering their content digitally, and Electronic Arts is no exception. The company has invested heavily in the digital space and it looks like that investment has payed off.

EA announced recently that for the 2011 calendar year, their digital businesses brought in a grand total of $1 Billion in revenue. One main reason for this is the company’s big push into the casual and social space, which includes the purchases of social developers Playfish, Chillingo, and PopCap. It also comes from their online digital distribution portal Origin.

So, EA had a pretty good run in 2011, and things are looking just as rosy for the year ahead.

http://www.gamespot.com/news/ea-digital-revenues-pass-1-billion-in-2011-6348611?tag=newstop%3Btitle%3B4

Story 2:  

Gamers have been looking forward to the third entry in Bioware’s popular Mass Effect series. Well if you were planning to play the game on your PC, you might want to pay attention.

In a post on Bioware’s forum, Community Coordinator Chris Priestly said that the game will not be available on Steam because of what he said were “restrictive terms of service.” In order to purchase a copy of the game digitally, gamers will need to purchase the game from EA’s own Origin service.

And speaking of Origin, Priestly said that in order to activate the game, gamers will also need to have Origin installed. This is regardless of whether the copy is store bought, or digital.

While playing a game like this on your PC might be good in terms of gameplay, with all of the hoops you have to jump through, it might just be better to pick this up for consoles instead.

http://pc.ign.com/articles/121/1216562p1.html

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

We’ve talked before about the reaction of the internet community over the Stop Online Piracy Act that has been making it’s way through the US Senate. And the list of game makers coming out against the legislation keeps growing.

One recent story has come out that Firefall developer Red 5 Studios would be shutting down the current beta on January 18 in support of social news website Reddit’s call for a one day protest of SOPA.

CEO Mark Kern recently told Shacknews that they fear that the legislation would hurt smaller developers who wouldn’t have the resources to fight against any unwarranted shutdowns.

The studio is also taking a stand against the Entertainment Software Association for their support for the legislation by cancelling their plans for this year’s E3, with Kern stating that “...we will not attend E3 unless ESA reverses their stance.”

http://www.shacknews.com/article/71965/firefall-dev-shutting-down-beta-site-in-protest-of-sopa

Story 2:  

So, if you are a fan of the Silent Hill series...you MAY want to start saving up now.

Konami has announced that it will be releasing three Silent Hill titles during the month of March.

Starting things off will be the recently delayed HD collection of Silent Hill 2 and 3 on March 6th. Then the following week will see the brand new game Silent Hill: Downpour arriving on March 13. And lastly, Konami will release Silent Hill: Shattered Memories exclusively for the Playstation Vita.

If you are a fan of the creepy twisted horror franchise, then it looks like March Madness will have a whole new meaning this year.

http://www.gametrailers.com/side-mission/2012/01/12/konami-makes-march-silent-hill-month-with-triple-the-silent-hill/

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

The latest Elder Scrolls game has been a big success, and gamers have been getting hours of enjoyment from the game....that is if they were playing on the PC or 360.

PS3 Skyrim players have been plagued by lag issues, and even after a recent patch, the game is still having major gameplay issues. Well, Bethseda tweeted that they will be addressing these problems in their next update. No date has been given for when the patch would arrive, but they said it would be available “this month”. So that gives them a couple of weeks...Let’s hope PS3 gamers can hold out that long.

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-01-10-skyrim-ps3-lag-to-be-addressed-in-patch-1-4

Story 2: 

In other Bethesda news, it seems that the long running lawsuit between them and Interplay over the MMO rights to the Fallout series has finally concluded, with all rights to the series no belonging to Bethesda.

Interplay originally created the Fallout games back in the day, but sold the rights to Bethesda parent company Zenimax in 2007, the granted Interplay the right to create an MMO based on the series, but were required to begin work by a certain date. When Interplay failed to do so, Bethesda decided to take the rights back, and lawsuits ensued.

Zenimax now has all rights belonging to the Fallout series, but Interplay will still be allowed to sell the original three games until 2013. Also, Zenimax will be required to pay Interplay $2 million.

Who know now what will become of the MMO, but at least now the dust has cleared. 

So we may actually get to head back into the radioactive wasteland in the near future.

http://www.gametrailers.com/side-mission/2012/01/10/bethesda-regains-rights-to-fallout-mmo-from-interplay/

http://www.wired.com/gamelife/2012/01/bethesda-fallout-online/

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:   

As has become the norm for most games that are released...

The recent reboot of Mortal Kombat will be releasing what they are calling the Komplete Edition on February 28th for both PS3 and Xbox 360.

The release will feature the game along with all four downloadable characters. It will also feature 15 old school character skins and three classic fatalities for Scorpion, Sub-Zero, and Reptile. It will also give gamers downloadable versions of the 1995 Motral Kombat movie and the music CD Mortal Kombat: Songs Inspired by the Warriors.

No pricing has been given for this edition, but expect it to sell for the original release price of $60.

http://www.gamespot.com/news/mortal-kombat-gets-komplete-edition-6348335?tag=newstop%3Btitle%3B2

Story 2:  

News leaked recently that Microsoft will be returning in with it’s third annual House Party game promotion. 

As with the last couple of years, the promotion will feature a slate of games that will be released one a week over the course of a month. 

According to the trailer that was found, this year’s promotion will include a couple of big titles, as well as some interesting lesser known games. The games include Alan Wake’s American Nightmare, Warp from EA, Nexuiz, and the long awaited survival game from Ubisoft, I Am Alive. 

Microsoft will start the house party on February 15, but as of yet, no prices have yet been set.

http://www.shacknews.com/article/71917/xbox-live-house-party-starts-february-15

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:   

On the Microsoft side, the company revealed that it would be officially bringing their Kinect sensor to Windows computers starting February 1st. The device will be optimised for computers with a near mode that will let you get as close as 50 centimeters to the device. All of this will come at a premium price of $250.

Speaking of Kinect, Microsoft gave the sales numbers for both the 360 console as well as the Kinect, and the 360 now sits at 66 million units worldwide and the Kinect is sitting at 18 million.

And lastly in a little bit of Dashboard news, Newscorp announced that they would be creating an free app for the 360 Dashboard that will be bringing content from their many properties. That includes the Wall Street Journal, Fox News, and our friends of at the video game site IGN. No date yet on when it is coming out, but it is slated for sometime in 2012.

http://www.gametrailers.com/side-mission/2012/01/09/kinect-for-windows-launches-february-1-with-100-price-bump/

http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/newscorp-app-adds-fox-ign-the-wall-street-journal-and-fox-news/

http://www.1up.com/news/xbox-36-sales-66-million

Story 2:  

And now on to Sony’s announcements:

Sony’s focus of course is the upcoming release of their latest handheld, the Vita. The system is out now in Japan, and Sony made sure to tout their new handheld system has sold a whopping 500,000 units since it launched in Japan last month.

They also announced that Netflix would be making it’s way to the system, and it may even be there when the system launches in the US at the end of February. Along with streaming movies, they also announced that their Music Unlimited music service would also be coming to the Vita day and date when the system releases. 

But the most interesting reveal for Sony was the Play Memories Studio video editing software that will allow PS3 owners to edit and share video directly from their PS3 systems.

So while maybe not the most earth shattering news, it is some interesting bits of information, and things we will probably be hearing more about the the coming months.

http://www.shacknews.com/article/71901/netflix-available-at-vita-launch-play-memories-studio-announced-for

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

The new year has just started, but there are already rumors about the upcoming Electronic Entertainment Expo...which doesn’t begin until the first of June.

Several reports are stating that both Microsoft and Sony are planning to unveil their next consoles to the public...to the surprise of pretty much no one.

With Nintendo getting ready to release the Wii U in the coming year, which they will surely have more information on at E3 this year, it’s only common sense that the other guys want to steal some of their thunder.

Be prepared to hear many leaks about these new consoles between now and June....but do us a favor....when the E3 press conferences happen....try to look surprised.

http://www.gamespot.com/news/xbox-360-successor-ps4-to-be-shown-at-e3-2012-6348278?tag=topstory%3Btitle

Story 2:  

So it’s become a big thing over the last few years to take old games, uprez them to HD and release them as a download on the PS3 and 360. It’s a win/win for gamers and publishers...gamers get to relive an old favorite, and publishers get some easy money.

Well now SEGA is the next studio to jump in with the recent announcement that it would be bringing HD versions of their arcade zombie light gun shooters House of the Dead 3 and 4 exclusively to the Playstation Network.

The games will feature HD graphics, along with PSN Trophy and support for the Playstation Move controller. No price has been given yet. House of the Dead 3 will be released on February 7, with the fourth game coming some time in the spring.

Hey...if the thought of blowing away scores of the undead with your Move controller sounds like a great way to spend your time, then this should be one to check out.

http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/house-of-the-dead-3-and-4-becoming-psn-neighbors/

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

Gamers love Diablo...that’s just a statement of fact. They original game and it’s sequel are classics in the realm of PC gaming, and excitement for the upcoming third game is off the charts. 

Well Blizzard is hoping to tap into the love and nostalgia for the game with a new retrospective that is launching to coincide with the original games 15th anniversary.

Gamers will find a full game series timeline, interviews with game designers, and videos and screenshots for all of the games. There is also a full and expanded video retrospective covering the series in minute detail.

If you are a fan of the series, and are counting the days until Diablo III releases....why not head over and take a trip down memory lane while you wander the world of Sanctuary.

http://www.destructoid.com/blizzard-unveils-diablo-15th-anniversary-retrospective-219107.phtml

Story 2:  

If you are a gamer...AND a fan of the Penny Arcade online comic, then you are more than likely aware of their charity Child’s Play. The charity was founded in 2003 to improve the lives of children who are sick and in the hospital by bringing them games and toys to play with while they’re there.

Child’s Play is completely donation supported, and they recently announced that 2011 was their biggest year yet. For 2011, the charity took in over $3.5 million in donations. That was well above their goal of $2 million, and brought them over the $10 million mark in contributions over their lifetime. 

They now go into the new year with restrained enthusiasm, saying that surpassing $3.5 million would be tough but doable. They say “if we've learned one thing, it is to never underestimate the generosity of the gaming community...”

We couldn’t agree more. So why not make a resolution to donate to this incredibly awesome charity.

http://www.gamespot.com/news/childs-play-raises-35-million-in-2011-6348229?tag=newstop%3Btitle%3B11

http://childsplaycharity.org/

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Press Pause at GDC 2011:

http://www.mevio.com/episode/272981/press-pause-on-location-gdc-2011

Press Pause E3 Daily Roundup

Day 1: http://www.mevio.com/episode/283911/e3-wrap-up-day-one-press-pause

Day 2: http://www.mevio.com/episode/284047/e3-wrap-up-day-two-press-pause

Day 3: http://www.mevio.com/episode/284144/e3-wrap-up-day-three-press-pause

Damon Brown Interview: http://www.mevio.com/episode/284248/e3-wrap-up-day-interview-press-pause

Press Pause at Gaijin Games:

http://www.mevio.com/episode/300416/gaijin-games-press-pause-special

Press Pause talks about Lord of the Rings: War In The North:

http://www.mevio.com/episode/300541/lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

To watch the full episode: http://www.mevio.com/episode/158168/e3-roundtable-discussion-press-pause

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

5. 

At number five we have L.A. Noire. 

This game places you in the shoes of a cop in 1940’s Los Angeles as you solve crimes, and work your way up the ladder of the LAPD.

This game comes from Rockstar, who is well known for their gritty crime games. It features an engrossing story, and the graphics are some of the best out there. 

4. 

At number four is the sequel to one of 2009’s best games: Batman Arkham Asylum.

Batman Arkham City picks up a year after the events of the last game. Since then, a large section of Gotham has been sectioned off and turned into a prison for all of the worst of the worst. 

The story finds Batman going into Arkham City to discover why the prison was built, and what it’s new warden, Hugo Strange is up to.

Bottom line, it’s Batman, his most famous rouge’s gallery, and a LOT of ass kicking. What more do you need. And hey...everyone wants to be batman.

3. 

At number three we have a game that has been shattering sales records across the board: Modern Warfare 3. The latest in Activision’s massively successful Call of Duty series begins exactly where Moder Warfare 2 left off. You will play as several characters as you battle the forces of Russian Ultranationalist Vladimir Makarov.

If your gamer loves the thrill of shooter action, then this is the game for you. They will work their way through an intense single player story, and then they can take the battle online to test their skills against the world.

2. 

At number two we have the latest in the long running Legend of Zelda series: Skyward Sword.

This story is set at one of the earliest points in this series’ long running continuity, taking place many years before the events of The Ocarina Of Time.

The game starts off in a floating city of Skyloft. Again you play as a character named Link as he sets out to save his friend Zelda from forces unknown, and have many adventures along the way.

This is the first game made especially for the Wii system, and utilizes the Wii Motion Plus for accurate controls. If your gamer loves Nintendo and the Zelda series, you can’t do wrong with this game.

1. 

And last, at number one we have a game that needs no introduction. It is of course The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.

There are of course millions of people who have been engrossed in the latest game in Bethesda’s long running game series.

Set 200 years after the end of the last game, you play as a “Dragonborn” as you venture out to defeat Alduin. You will travel the land of Skyrim, which is in the midst of a civil war after the assassination of it’s High King.

Your gamer will find a large open world to play in, non linear gameplay, and many quests to finish. This game will keep your gamer engrossed for hours and hours.

So if they are fans of a good RPG, then this is a definite no-brainer.

Well that will do it for our list of games for the hardcore gamer on your shopping list. We hope that this will be helpful to you, and we hope that you holidays are very special for you and yours. From our family to yours. Happy Holidays.

SHOW NOTES:

5.

First up is one for the Portal lover in your life. 

You can now own your very own Weighted Companion Cube, only this one is a plushy one that you can hug and squeeze. It’s six inches on all sides and comes out of it’s own vital apparatus vent. This time, why not refuse to incinerate it, and snuggle up on the couch. 

http://www.thinkgeek.com/geektoys/a9e0/

4.

Why not help the gamer in your life brighten up their gaming lair with these gaming decorations.

They will be able to cover their walls with graphics right out of Super Mario Bros. And because they are restickable vinyl decals, they can be used again, and are great for those who aren’t able to paint their walls

http://www.thinkgeek.com/geektoys/japanfan/a6d0/

3.

Does your gamer have an iPad, and love playing classic arcade titles?

Why not get them the iCade iPad arcade cabinet, so they can feel like they are right back in those smokey arcades of yesteryear. 

The iCade sits on your tabletop and connects to the iPad via Bluetooth. The iCade works with both the original iPad, as well as the iPad 2. It is perfect when paired with the “Atari Greatest Hits” app that features over 100 classic Atari games.

In addidtion to the Atari app, the iCade also works with many other iOS games such as :

Minotron 2112, Super Mega Worm, Warblade HD, and many more.

http://www.thinkgeek.com/electronics/retro-gaming/e762/?pfm=homepage_Featured_2_e762

2. 

Now just because you have a gamer in your life, doesn’t mean they would be interested in putting the controller down and reading an interesting work as well, and Think Geek have a couple of good ones for them to peruse.

First we have one from the folks at Portal game maker Valve called “Valve Presents: The Sacrifice and other Steam Powered Stories” that features several stories from the Portal, Team Fortress 2, and Left 4 Dead game worlds

And then we have the Halo Encyclopedia. This book contains everything you could possibly want to know about Bungie’s world renowned game series.

The book is a definitive guide to the Halo universe, and features a detailed timeline, character bios and a whole sections that cover the ships vehicles and weaponry of the games.

Valve Presents: The Sacrifice and other Steam Powered Stories

http://www.thinkgeek.com/books/scifi/eaee/?srp=2

Halo Encyclopedia

http://www.thinkgeek.com/books/nonfiction/c8bd/?srp=3

1.

And lastly, why not let your gamer show off their gaming geekiness with some awesome clothing options.

You could get them the 8-bit necktie, or Gears of War COG Tag necklace. And you can always grab them a Portal 2 hoodie or a t-shirt with The Legend of Zelda crest.

We hope that this will help give you some ideas for the geeky gamer in your life. For these and other awesome gifts, head on over to thinkgeek.com and check them out.

http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts-apparel/

We hope that this helps you find the perfect gift for the gamer in your life. 

For these and many other great gift ideas, go to: www.thinkgeek.com.

If you're looking for some games for the family this holiday season, Jaime, the Press Pause Christmas Elf is here with a Top 5 list of family-friendly video games.

SHOW NOTES:

If you are looking for some family friendly video games to get for Christmas? Let’s check

a Top 5 of Video Game Family Favorites, according to amazon.com

5. 

First up we have a crowd-pleaser...Kinect Sports Season 2. In this game you and the fam can play tennis, golf, football, baseball, skiing and even darts. One on one showdown mode lets you take on each member of your family and see whos best at virtual sports!

4. 

Next up is a twofer Just Dance 3 AND Dance Central 2.  If you want to have some dance offs this holiday there’s two different ways you can get it crackin’. Just Dance 3 has songs to shake your groove thing to such as Beastie Boys, Ting Tings, Pussycat Dolls, Outkast, and Avril Lavinge. Dance Central 2 is exclusive to Kinect and has over 100 tracks and provides detailed feedback for each player. 

Either option and will help you get the party started this holiday season.

3. 

Wipeout: The Game will have you tackling crazy obstacles alike the popular TV show. You know the one where people almost knock themselves silly from trying to jump onto a wet, MOVING, bouncy ball. Obstacles include TV favorites such as Big Balls, Sucker Punch, and The Sweeper.

2. 

Super Mario Brothers Wii is a no-brainer as a family game choice. It appeals to the fans of Super Mario Brothers and allows for cooperative play by other family members without any real penalty for sucking. Multiple characters can try to help complete each side scrolling level, and simply get ‘reborn’ in a little bubble if they’re slow to catch up or accidentally fell off a cliff.

1. 

Kinect Disneyland Adventures has family written all over it. Also exclusive to Xbox’s Kinect this game lets the whole family explore a virtual Disneyland at their own pace. Explore different attractions, meet characters, and play fun competitive games while exploring the park. You will also be able to collect Disney-themed items and unlock different xbox 360 achievements as you play. Hey what’s more family than Disneyland?

That will do it for a look at some top picks for family gaming this holiday season. I’m Jamie Sagara and happy gaming!...also happy holidays!

SHOW NOTES:

As we mentioned yesterday, this time of year can bring out Christmas themed games, but that doesn’t mean that they aren’t a bit on the weird side. So here is our Top 5 Weirdest classic Christmas video games tabulated by classicgames.about.com

http://classicgames.about.com/od/toppicks/ig/Weirdest-Christmas-Video-Games/

5. 

Number 5 is Santa Clause Saves The Earth. This late PS 1 title was a super mario brother clone with Santa collecting the coins. Loose controls and a weak premise made this a forgettable game for sure, but hey it made THIS list didn’t it? Backstory? some weird fairy creature zaps Santa into a strange land filled with odd creatures all hell bent on ending jolly Ol’ St. Nick.

4. 

In at number 4 is Frosty The Snowman aka Frosty’s Busy Night. Gotta love a game that has it’s own aka. Also this game came out for the Commodore 64 so hard not to have a warm sense of nostalgia. However the game itself is another odd Christmas entry by putting Frosty back to work the second he got back to the North Pole. Your job is to bring presents from the elves back to Santa, avoiding obstacles and pitfalls along the way.

The game was actually given away as a freebie in a Commodore 64 magazine. Can’t go wrong with free but in this case I might have just went back and watched Frosty The Snowman again instead.

3. 

Daze Before Christmas is our number 3 weirdest classic Christmas game and it has the most sinister plot twist on the list. The back story here is that while Santa was taking a milk induced nap a bunch of terrible people came in and stole some elves and presents. Santa wakes up and decides to take it upon himself to go rescue the lot. 

Fighting off giant mice, penguins, and headless snowmen along the way. The weird twist? When Santa finds a special elixir power-up he turns into the Anti-Claus and destroys everything in his path. He even has horns which is just messed up. Good news is .. with the help of your crazy alter ego you’ll probably get back most of those crappy gifts and unappreciative elves. Score!

2. 

Number 2 is Santa's Christmas Caper. Developer Zeppelin actually created two different titles for both the Commodore 64 and Amiga.

The Commodore 64 version sees Santa as a lush too drunk to drive his sleigh and deliver gifts so you take it upon yourself to step up and fly his sleigh, tonight. The game quickly turns into a side scrolling shooter, because you know that’s what flying Santa’s sleigh is all about .. shooting shit.

The Amiga version had Santa crash landing his sleigh and spilling out all the presents. The game turns into a Super Mario brothers style platformer having you platforming throughout Lapland to get back all the gifts. Yes, I said Lapland. The name of the place he crash lands is called Lapland.

Man can’t Santa hold it together for one second? I mean really Santa. It’s embarrassing.

1. 

And in at number one is the ugliest looking Christmas game on the list. Special Delivery: Santa’s Christmas Chaos. Hard to even tell this is a Christmas game with the nonexistent graphics and low resolution. I mean is that Santa or a pink colored gorilla? Cant tell.

In the game you land your sleigh on houses and descend a huge tower sized chimney complete with bad guys coming at you in all directions. You remember that from all the Christmas stories right? No? You don’t? Yeah neither do I. Once you get into each house you have to drop off a present and then grab a key to leave. Although couldn’t you just take that huge ass chimney with the ladder on the way out? 

Man .. these games make Christmas a lot more complicated then it should be, don't they?

Oh well....Happy Holidays.

SHOW NOTES:

This time of year is full of many Christmas themed movies and TV shows, but over the years there have been several video games that have had a festive theme as well....here is our Top 5:

5.

We start off with The Nightmare Before Christmas: Oogie’s Revenge

What more do you have to say really? It’s a game based on Nightmare Before Christmas and had you playing through weird levels filled with equal parts Halloween and Christmas. While the control and pacing was a little lackluster it still makes the list based on source material alone.

4. 

Number 4 … Animal Crossing ON Christmas. In this highly addictive animal filled world you would get different perks and graphic changes based on the system’s internal clock. Come Christmas time you would get Christmas lights in the trees, snow on the ground, and a present from Nintendo that was most likely a new video game! 

3. 

Christmas Nights Into Dreams is up next and has a rather unique entry. The developers liked Christmas so much they created this modified version of their title Nights Into Dreams and GAVE it away. Talk about getting Christmas early! Levels were flavored with a Christmas feel AND you got an added Advent calendar where you could unlock gifts all of December.

2. 

Up next is Costume Quest: Grubbins On Ice. This DLC for the very rad Double Fine game Costume Quest was a natural fit. The original game had you trick or treating and collecting candy alongside a light RPG experience. Grubbins On Ice took that formula and added snow, more candy (Christmas candy!) and had you beat up some more baddies. Bonus that both games came out during the holidays they represented.

1. 

ANNND number 1 is Raw Danger! Released way back in 2007. 

Now I know what you’re saying .. why is this survival game on the list of Christmas goodness? Because the natural disaster game is set on Christmas Eve AND you can find a Santa suit to run around a destroyed city in. That, and it’s just an awesomely weird game!

That will do it for your top 5 Christmas games. Happy Christmas and if you find yourself stranded in a destroyed city somewhere on Christmas Eve .. make sure you put on your Santa hat.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:   

According to a story on Bloomberg, Microsoft is looking to hire a TV executive to help the company produce original television content for the Xbox 360. As stated in the story, the company has apparently approached two former NBC executives: Marc Graboff and Jeff Gaspin. Gaspin was the head of NBC Universal Entertainment, but stepped down after the merger with Comcast, and Graboff is currently president of West Coast business operations, but recently announced plans to leave.

We all know that Microsoft is really fighting to become the king of your living room, and creating original programming would be a good way for them to stand out above the PS3, as well as Google TV, and the like. 

Hey, if they can come up with some good programming, I’m in.

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-12-09/microsoft-said-to-seek-tv-executive-to-develop-shows-for-xbox-live-service.html

Story 2:  

So, Christmas will soon be upon us, and that means that a lot of people will be travelling to see their loved ones. And, or course, that usually means a lot of time waiting at the airport. Well if you own a 3DS, then you got no worries.

A recent system update to Nintendo’s handheld added free wifi access to all airport hotspots from service provider Boingo. the company operates hotspots in 42 airports across North America, and the company thought that with the load of families travelling this holiday season, it just made sense.

Senior Vice President of Strategy and Business development Colby Goff said “With the holiday season approaching, more leisure travelers and families with children will fill our airports and have access to our hotspots.”

Which is probably code for “If you want your kid to shut up when your flight gets delayed, let ‘em play a game.” Works for me.

http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20111208005296/en/Boingo-Nintendo-Team-Connect-Nintendo-3DS-Users

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

So it goes without saying that A LOT of gamers love them some Modern Warfare 3.

How much you say? Well...the latest game in the Call of Duty series managed to reach over $1 Billion in sales in just 16 days. This makes it reached that milestone faster than any other entertainment property. It managed the feat a full day faster than the previous holder of that title: James Cameron’s 2009 smash hit movie Avatar.

It just goes to show that more and more, video games are becoming THE entertainment choice for a very large section of the population. And this looks to be just the beginning.

http://www.gamespot.com/news/modern-warfare-3-tops-1-billion-in-16-days-6347435?tag=topstory%3Btitle

Story 2: 

So the latest Legend of Zelda title is a big hit with gamers, as it is wont to do, but there are some people who aren’t as enamored of the game’s motion controls. To those people, i regret to inform you that you’re just gonna have to accept it.

According to reports, producer Eiji Aonuma had seriously contemplated getting rid of motion controls, but has now decided that there’s no going back.

Aonuma told the Official Nintendo Magazine that “I honestly think we cannot go back to button controls now, so I think that these controls will be used in future Zelda titles, too.”

Now, motion controls are all fine and good, but this is a little disappointing to hear, as we like using a regular controller as well. I guess if anyone can do it right, it would be Nintendo.

http://kotaku.com/5867173/hope-you-like-zelda-motion-controls

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story #1: 

According to Microsoft themselves all new apps coming to the Xbox 360 dashboard will HAVE to have some form of Kinect functionality. Now this doesn’t mean that controller support will be abandoned in those apps, they just want the Kinect option to be there for customers.

Now if they could just unify HOW the Kinect functionality .. functions, that would be a helpful step towards streamlining their whole dashboard experience. Just my opinion.

http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/kinect-support-required-for-all-xbox-dash-apps-going-forward/

Story #2: 

In other Xbox Dashboard news Joystiq is reporting that Indie Games are getting a bit of the shaft. Currently beacons don't work with them, cloud storage is not supported, and new indie releases don't appear under…new releases. Weird because isn’t this a fruitful time for indie games making it to the mainstream? 

Didn’t Braid teach us anything? Do us a favor...to combat this oversight go pickup a few indie titles tonight. They are like a dollar each...I mean what are ya...the Grinch?

http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/new-xbox-dashboard-features-incompatible-with-indie-games/

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

Raptr, which is a popular game tracking service, recently announced a list of the top performing games of the year. This list was determined by how many hours the members of it’s game community put into the games.

Some of the results that came out were that Modern Warfare 3 was the most played shooter, and Batman: Arkham City was the most played open-world game. And in an announcement that surprises almost no one, the most played game overall this year is none other than a little game called The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.

Weird, right. I didn’t know there WERE any other games this year.

http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/skyrim-is-2011s-most-played-game-according-to-raptr/#continued

Story 2:  

So there are millions of fans of the long running BBC show Doctor Who. Well starting early next year, they will be able to continue the adventures of The Doctor in a new series of downloadable games that will coming to PC, PS3, and the upcoming PS Vita.

The first game in the series, called “Doctor Who: The Eternity Clock”, will feature The Doctor and fan favorite River Song as they again have to save the Earth from some unknown danger. 

The game is being developed by Supermassive Games, who has done work on many levels for Little Big Planet. The story is being written by BBC Wales, who produce the show, and Matt Smith and Alex Kingston are on board to voice their characters. No pricing has been announced yet.

If you just can’t get enough Doctor Who, make sure to keep an eye out for that blue Police Box.

http://www.shacknews.com/article/71475/doctor-who-the-eternity-clock-announced-for-pc-ps3-vita

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. You can always find all our episodes over at presspause.mevio.com. You can also check them out over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:   

Destructoid recently posted some Zelda tribute songs by artist Cory Johnson and they are definitely worth checking out. These raw sounding rock versions of your favorite Zelda tunes would be at home in an indie film or a comic book style movie like Scott Pilgrim.

Head on over to coryjohnson.bandcamp.com to check out the full digital album.

http://www.destructoid.com/zelda-goes-post-rock-in-this-mellow-collection-of-tunes-217183.phtml

Story 2:  

SONY has been mentioning that in 2012 they will, again, be switching up their marketing campaign and appealing more to the younger family demographic. SCEE CEO Jim Ryan, said the PS3 will be going for the "slightly younger" market next year, capitalizing on its lower price. But he also went on to say “The core gamer will absolutely not be neglected. There’s going to be tons of great stuff for the core gamer”

Hmmmm...I don’t know. I remember Kinect going all family friendly and we’re still coming out of that stupor. So get your fill of blowing up people now cause come 2012 it might be all Elmo and Dora the Explorer...with move support!

http://www.destructoid.com/ps3-aiming-for-younger-family-demographic-in-2012-217217.phtml

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio. And you can always find them over at presspause.mevio.com

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

So instead of ugly lawsuits and weirdness happening between LEGO and Minecraft developer Mojang, LEGO is taking the high road and working on a Minecraft series of the popular toys. While the deal isn’t done they are currently talks to complete the licensing deal, and Mojang also said that they’re working with Minecraft community on the venture as well.

This sounds like it was ‘meant to be’...I mean LEGOs are Minecraft and Minecraft are LEGOs.

Looks like I’ll be playing with LEGOS again soon. 

Although...they ain't no Lincoln Logs. 

http://www.pcworld.com/article/245485/minecraft_plus_lego_equals_minecraft_lego.html

Story 2: 

Ever wanted to see Master Chief in 2D? Well the fan-made 2D imagining of Halo seems to be in it’s final stages of development, and the developer Triblox is saying it will be available this winter. New additions include more weapons, redone A.I., and teams.

This looks super awesome actually and could actually get me excited about Halo again. Actually who am I kidding? anything redone in 2D I'd probably buy.

http://kotaku.com/5865007/halo-goes-2d-not-with-a-bang-but-with-a-whimper

http://www.indiedb.com/games/haloowaw

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

As with last week, we are definitely in a lull of new releases. That being said, here we go...

GAME #1: 

First up...It’s a little late to the party, but PS3 owners can now finally shake their groove thing with the latest installment of Ubisoft’s Just Dance series.

Just Dance 3 gives your living room dance club a whole lot more moves and some top songs from artists like Katy Perry, Cee Lo Green, and Gwen Stefani, as well as some old school jams from The Sugarhill Gang; Earth, Wind, & Fire; and the original diva herself, Aretha Franklin.

Oh, and for you fans of the show How I Met Your Mother...you can “go to the Mall” with that Canadian superstar Robin Sparkles.

GAME #2: 

Up next is Fortune Street for the Wii. This odd release mixes the characters of Dragon Quest with Super Mario to relive the tropes of Mario Party. I don’t understand WHERE this game came from .. but hey if you enjoyed Mario Party .. but were thinking to yourself “man I wish I could be that slime guy from Dragon Quest” .. you’re in luck. Now you can.

GAME #3: 

Ok at #3 we have what is probably the only really good game on the list....and it’s a movie tie-in.

Based on the upcoming animated movie from master filmmakers Stephen Spielberg and Peter Jackson is the game for The Adventures of TinTin: The Secret of the Unicorn.

The game is a fairly typical adventure game that takes you through the story of the movie as teen reporter Tin Tin, along with Captain Haddock, and is faithful dog Snowy. The game is a mix of platforming, action, and vehicle sections.

So...if you’ve been looking forward to checking this out, or if you are one of the few people who is already a fan of the world famous European comic character, you might want to check this game out...since it appears to be coming to just about every system under the sun.

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio. 

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

Want to make your own game and on top of that..make money from it? Well here are two programs that will help you out on that front. 

First up we have Game Salad. A mac based drag and drop game creation tool that lets you make games in a more visual way (rather than having to use all that programming language bizness). With Game Salad you can make games for Mac, iOS, and Android.

With Kiip (spelled with two i’s) is a real world awards program for in game achievements. You get deals on real world items by unlocking achievements in certain games. How does this fit together with Game Salad you may ask? Well future iterations of Game Salad will integrate Kiip into the mix. Allowing you the developer of your new ‘super adventures hot dog man RPG’ to make some cash without those pesky banner ads.

Oh, and don’t steal my idea for Super Adventures of Hot Dog Man RPG...that’s mine and it’s pure gold.

http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/225376/make-your-own-games-and-make-money-with-them-with-kiip-and-gamesalad/

Story 2:  

Mobage and Square Enix announced a new social based title they’re working on at a Japanese press conference. It’s called Final Fantasy Brigade and is said to have more old school 2D type battles and cutsy style artwork. 

Cutsy? Is that a word?

Word on the street is that you’ll be able to travel the world, find jobs, battle friends and even spot an airship or two. Japan will get a closed beta later this month and a web version is also said to be in the works.

Hey .. I still am waiting for them to make good on the promise of a Rifts MMO. Seeing as how that wont happen .. ill take a Final Fantasy based MMO. I mean .. i like cutsy. 

http://www.destructoid.com/final-fantasy-brigade-a-new-social-game-from-square-enix-217064.phtml

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:   

So if you are getting one of the new uber fancy PS Vita machines at launch you’re gonna need a memory card. News is surfacing that the cost of these memory cards (which won’t be traditional SD) will cost anywhere from 30 dollars to 120!! To put that in perspective new PS Vita games will probably run around 40 bucks. So you’ll be paying more for the memory cards then most new releases. 

Ugh. Sony will you please just stop creating new proprietary memory and disc stuff! I get the priacy concerns but i’d much rather use one of the super cheap 4 GB SD card I already own? And if you’re sticking to your guns on this can you AT LEAST make them a bit cheaper. Let’s see .. do I want new games or a new memory card. Rats! Don’t make me choose.

http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/225306/playstation-vita-memory-cards-cost-up-to-120/

Story 2:  

Starting in December, FiOS cable customers will be able to access some of their programming via the xbox 360. While the idea of users being able to access cable provider content has already been announced it’s still cool to see it actually happening. To access the service customers will need to subscribe to both FiOS TV, FiOS Internet AND be Xbox LIVE Gold members.

On top of that Verizon says it will offer up a special bundle that includes FiOS TV, Internet, Verizon Voice, AND a 12month subscription to Xbox Live, all for about 90 bucks. Soon you’ll be able to play some GTA then take a Seinfield break .. without even turning off your xbox.

http://kotaku.com/5863357/xbox-360-becomes-a-fios-cable-box-next-month-starting-with-26-channels

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

Microsoft recently released a sexy new Kinect commercial showing off things that the Kinect ‘could’ do .. under the right circumstances. Opening DNA diagrams, helping with surgery, moving around constellations. But after some recent Kinect 2 speculation by site Eurogamer, Kinect 2 might even be MORE impressive. 

The information about town is that Kinect 2 will be able to read your lips and recognize facial expressions. This will be accomplished with a higher resolution capture and a more robust chipset. Add that together with a new more powerful system and we could have a insanely smart xbox. 

Imagine coming home and your kinect knowing you had a bad day? [said in robot voice] Jamie .. it looks like you’re sad. Here. Play some Skyrim .. and everything will be allllll better.

http://kotaku.com/5863012/the-next-kinect-will-read-your-lips-know-what-youre-feeling?autoplay

Story 2: 

Odd pairing in this next story .. rumor has it that SONY is signing deal with Microsoft to license the Kinect for use with their televisions. If this is true certain Bravia TV’s would soon have Kinect functionality and bring Microsoft, by proxy, head to head with Google TV.

Innnnteresting..the new TV wars have begun.....we should make that a thing. Like a webshow .. TV WARS! Lost vs. BSG, Modern Family vs 30 Rock .. Press Pause vs … the wooorld!

http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/225286/rumor-microsoft-bringing-kinect-to-sony-tvs/

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

GAME #1: 

First up is the newest in the Mario Kart series. Mario Kart 7. For some reason this is the first Mario Kart game that has a number, but either way it’s pretty much more of the same. They added some new mechanics with underwater action and gliding above the tracks. The ability to customize your vehicle was included as well as supports Spot Pass and Street Pass.

So if you liked Mario Kart on the DS you’ll dig this i’m sure. Although you just might prefer the game withOUT the 3D on. We tried it at E3 and it can be a bit taxing when you have to keep your head in one place during all that fast paced craziness.

GAME #2: 

Up next is National Geographic Challenge. Out on the PS3, PC, and Wii it is a multiplayer trivia game that has you challenging your friends and family to best you in geographic challenges. The unique feature that might set it apart from something like Mario Party or Trivial Pursuit is its Risk-like territory grab upon answering questions correctly. 

You know what? If you’re looking for something for during the holidays that can have grandma, uncle bob, and little jimmy all answering questions while looking at images from all over the world this would do the job. 

GAME #3: 

Lastly, proving it truly is a slow week, comes Jaws: Ultimate Predator. Although .. instead of just writing this off as a lackluster movie title I will say it has a fresh take on the gameplay. You play AS the shark! Yeah you heard me right. You get to chomp on people. 

You will also have to defend your turf from other various sea creatures who really don’t want you to succeed. Sea Serpents and Tiger Sharks getting all up in your bizness, you having to chomp your way to success.

Hey .. what more can we say? You play as a shark that gets upgrades and unlocks special shark abilities. Kinda kick ass? …...Although you would think that if you were a shark you’d already have all your abilities? Anyways...

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

A little company out of the UK, Game Gadget, has developed an open source linux device that will play games. Yes .. the words open source and linux might start making your worried, but save your assessment till the end. The unit will set you back roughly 160 bucks and be paired with the companies own app-like service called GameGadgetGames. Kind of redundant. The aim is to have a portable device that can play any time of game, and breathe new life into some older titles that no longer see any revenue or distribution.

While this seems a lofty goal good on them for trying. Maybe just give your games service a new name. Maybe NOT game gadget game. We get that it has to do with games. Kinda on the nose (with that one).

http://kotaku.com/5861504/the-open-source-gamegadget-wants-to-be-the-ipod-of-gaming

Story 2:  

If you stayed home and didn’t enter the madness of Black Friday you can still get post thanksgiving deals on your Xbox! Microsoft’s Major Nelson announced last week that a bunch of online titles would be going on sale, some up to 50% off. When dealing with Microsoft points that's actually a lot of dough. Examples are Stacking for 600 MS points, Magic 2012 for 400 MS points, and Super Meat Boy 400 points. 

Saving money from the comfort of your home...much better than fighting crowds of gross people.

Am I right?

http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/225078/xbox-live-fan-appreciation-sale-has-lots-of-50-discounts/

http://majornelson.com/2011/11/22/xbox-live-fan-appreciation-sale/

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

Carlos and Scott take a look at deals on Playstation 3, Xbox 360, and Wii consoles for this holiday season.

SHOW NOTES:

BEST BUY:

PS3 Entertainment Bundle (w/ Ratchet and Clank: All 4 One and Little Big Planet 2) - $199.99

Xbox 360 250GB Holiday Bundle (w/ Fable 3, Halo: Reach, and a 3-Month Xbox Live Gold Membership) - $199.99

WalMart:

Xbox 4GB Core Console w/ Kinect - $199.96

Wii Limited Edition Blue Console - $99.96

Target:

PS3 Entertainment Bundle (w/ 2 Games and a 30-Day Playstation Plus Membership) - $199.99

Xbox 4GB Core Console - $139.99

Toys 'r Us:

PS3 Entertainment Bundle (w/ 2 Games and Power A Wired Controller) - $199.99

Xbox 4GB Core Console w/ Kinect and $10 Gift Card - $199.99

Sears:

Wii Console (Black) w/ New Super Mario Bros Game and Super Mario Galaxy Music CD - $135.99

Find more Black Friday deals over at: http://www.blackfriday.info/

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

Video Game Accessories:

Best Buy:

Xbox 360 Wireless Controller - $39.99

Xbox Live 3-Mont Gold Membership (Xbox 360) - $7.99

Wal-Mart:

Wii Remote Plus - $39.96

K-Mart:

Wii Wave Controller - $4.99

Toys ‘R Us:

Power Cradle Charger For Nintendo Wii - 50% Off

Playstation 3 Wireless Controller - $20.99

6-In-1 Expansion Kit For Xbox 360 - 50% Off

You can more great Black Friday deals over at this website: http://www.blackfriday.info/

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:   

Ever say to yourself “man Super Mario Bros. was good, but I just wish there was more blood!”? Well then the new indie game Tiny Plumbers is for you! Developed by Robot Hearts Kitty the game has you stomping on bad guys turning them into pixels of blood.

If you want to check it out its only 10bucks pre-ordered over on their site http://robotloveskitty.com/tinyplumbers/. It’s for the PC...but hey your PC is getting lonely now that you spend all your time on the 360 or PS3. Show it some love.

http://kotaku.com/5859563/super-mario-bros-always-needed-more-blood

Story 2:  

Apparently if you want to play your old UMDs on the new PS Vita coming out you’ll have to pay to do so. The tentative prices were anywhere from 6 bucks to 30 bucks?! While I understand SONY doesn’t want to spend money reproducing a ton of old games just hoping someone will want to download them, but it still feels odd from the consumers standpoint.

It’s like the PSP Go alllll over again. Ha.. It did go...away. 

http://www.1up.com/news/downloading-psp-umd-games-vita-will-cost-you

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

On November 22nd Dead Island’s first DLC will be available titled Bloodbath Arena. The pack will bring 4 new areas to kills zombie in so you can rack up XP and bragging rights via leader boards, but it won’t be a traditional add-on story campaign. Anyone who pre-ordered the special edition from Game Stop will be able to get the DLC for free, everyone else will have to pay $9.99 or 800 Microsoft Points.

So it begs the question .. what will you do with all that extra XP you get from killing hordes of zombies? Watch the ending again with a more fully satisfied sigh. Knowing you have sooo much more XP then when you first watched it.

http://www.destructoid.com/bathe-in-blood-with-dead-island-s-new-dlc-215795.phtml

Story 2: 

If you are one of the many people playing Skyrim you are probably in uber RPG mode like me. Well if you wanna take a break from all the beautiful graphics and try out a couple games that came before that fancy Xbox 360 why not try Lands of Lore 1 and 2!

They can be found over at a very rad site Good ol’ Games for only 5.99 .. for both! The games were originally going to be Dungeons and Dragon titles but you know .. legal stuff happened and Westwood Studios was forced to release them on their own.

Side note … enjoyed the games by Westwood Studios so much I actually named a rocket launchpad … Westwood Productions or something. Never mind, nerdy launching rocket reference.

http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/224932/rpg-classics-lands-of-lore-1-and-2-hit-good-old-games/

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

We start the new releases with yet ANOTHER big title. The last few weeks have been insane with big titles .. so let’s pile on one more.

GAME #1: 

Assassin’s Creed: Revelations comes out and if you liked all the previous games you will HAVE to pick this one up. The developers have mentioned this game will deliver more information on its over arching back story as well as allow you to PLAY some levels in this modern day world. So if you’re a fan of the combat, the old school medieval stuff, or the inception like plot you will have to pick this up.

GAME #2: 

Also coming out is the over the top GTA-esque Saint’s Row The Third. Let’s put it this way, if you liked GTA San Andreas and want that x100 get this game. It’s basically a do what you want jackass style world of mayhem and destruction. And well .. humor. If you find hitting people with a bat that has a dildo on the end of it .. funny.

GAME #3: 

A game we saw at E3 that looks interesting is Need for Speed: The Run. Out today this game features an ‘actor’ .. Mr. Sean Feris from Vampire Diaries and Never Back Down, running from the mob. Also featuring Cristina Hendricks from Mad Men and the movie Drive this Need For Speed game seems to have Hollywood on the brain, making the game more movie-esque in its approach.

But let’s face it, you mainly still play it to outrun the cops cause outrunning the cops is always fun. and something we don’t really get to do that often in real life. and by ‘not that often’ I mean never. Well unless you're OJ Simpson. 

Oohh old school burn!

GAME #4: 

Oh yeah and another Halo game .. Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary comes out. So there’s that.

Fan of Halo? 

Still? 

This game was LITERALLY made for you.

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

Bethesda announced last week that YES they are working on a fix for the texture mapping glitch you might be experiencing. Skyrim heavily uses the Xbox 360 caching system and most people think this is probably the reason the issues are popping up.

What’s with all these new games having issues with graphics and textures? Can’t you test that kind of thing before, you know, it gets released? And shouldn't a gold certification from Microsoft come AFTER these texture issues are fixed? … regardless, I'm sure we’ll all be playing Skyrim nonstop for the next YEAR!

http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/224868/skyrim-xbox-360-versions-glitch-being-worked-on-says-bethesda/

Story 2:  

In a smart move SONY announced that the superhero MMO DC Universe Online would switch over to the free to play model. 

Remember Field Of Dreams .. “build it and they will come”?

Well make it free .. and they will also come. In Droves!

Apparently the million registrations are made up of an even split between PS3 and PC, and all the activity is putting a hurt on their servers. Players have been complaining of long waits in queue just to log in. 

Now they didn’t say how many of these new users are buying things in the game, but with very tempting costume upgrades, and online goodies i’m sure some of are happily adding their credit card and doing some virtual shopping. 

http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/224857/dc-universe-online-registers-1-million-new-players-after-free-to-play-switch/

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:   

So let’s face it....video game movies usbbbually suck....HARD. I’ll grant you that there are some that are not eye-gougingly bad, but usually you’ll get a Super Mario Bros, Double Dragons, or pretty much anything from Uwe Boll. Well it seems that Ubisoft wants to change that.

The studio recently signed a deal with Sony Pictures to create a movie based on the extremely popular Assassin’s Creed franchise. However, this won’t be just your usual company gets film rights, and then does whatever the hell it wants. In a move that has astonished many in Hollywood, Ubisoft’s deal with Sony gives it approval over pretty much every aspect of the film: budget, script, director, cast, and even the release date.

A lot of insiders from both the game and film industry think that this will be disastrous for the production, and that it might not even come at all, as this amount of control from the IP holder is unheard of in Hollywood.

Now we can agree that this might be taking things a BIT too far, but if it works and the film is something that both film fans, and fans of the game both love, it just might be a model for game films in the future. And hey, it’s not like they could do any worse....I’m talking to you Uwe.

http://www.gamespot.com/news/assassins-creed-film-deal-gives-ubisoft-unheard-of-control-report-6344055

Story 2:  

In a story that seems right out of the game itself. A shipment of 6,000 copies of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 was hijacked in Paris last Saturday morning.

According to news accounts, the perpetrators rammed their car into the delivery truck, and then used tear gas and knives to subdue the driver. The masked bandits made off with both the games, and the truck they were being delivered in.

This isn’t the first time a robbery has been connected to a Modern Warfare game. Copies of the PC version of the game were stolen from a warehouse late last month, and last year a Maryland Gamestop was robbed by two guys who made off with over a hundred copies of Call of Duty: Black Ops.

Now a lot of people say that gaming can lead to criminal activity. So we say...gee thanks guys for enforcing that particular stereotype.

http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/224687/6-000-copies-of-modern-warfare-3-stolen-in-van-raid/

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

Earlier this year, a rumor came out that Alan Wake developer Remedy Entertainment was working on another game in the series that wasn’t Alan Wake 2, but would be a downloadable XBLA title.

Well recently, Remedy has confirmed the game will be coming to XBLA, and that the details will be announced at the upcoming Spike Video Game Awards in December.

Some gamers really loved the first game, and when they heard that the next game they would be getting was a downloadable XBLA title instead of a full disc game....well let’s just say they weren’t happy about it. The developer though defends their decision. In a recent forum post, community manager Peter Papadopoulos assured fans that the game is "structured like a full release complete with a pretty damn impressive storyline that expands the originals in some interesting ways." He asked fans to wait for the VGA announcement to set their mind at ease.

Now we really like the game, and are pretty psyched to get more adventures in this universe. As such, we’re willing to wait and see before we pass judgement.

http://www.shacknews.com/article/70946/remedy-confirms-defends-alan-wake-xbla-sequel

Story 2: 

Hot off the heels of the release of the new Mario game on Nintendo’s 3D handheld comes news that the company is working on a brand new Zelda game. According to franchise director Eiji Aonuma, the game will not be another remake as with The Ocarina of Time, but will be a brand new adventure. They had decided that it wouldn’t be in the best interest of players to just release ANOTHER remake. 

So far, no other details have been released, but Aonuma did say that the game would use elements from previous games.

A lot of gamers really enjoyed diving back into Ocarina, and the idea of playing a brand new Zelda game should give many of them a warm fuzzy feeling.

http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/aonuma-new-3ds-zelda-in-the-works-majoras-mask-a-possibility/

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

GAME #1: 

Of course we start with one of the most anticipated games of the year. I think it would be blasphemous not to.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 picks up right after the end of the last entry in the series. You play as several characters as they fight across the globe to stop the machinations of Vladimir Makarov and his invading Russian troops.

Along with the single player story will come the online multiplayer that the series has become known for: fast paced action, many different match modes, and now you can rank up your weapons and unlock new attachments. The game also features a 2-player co-op Special Ops survival mode.

If you’re a fan of shooting dudes chances are that you already have this on pre-order. For the rest of you, if you ever wanted to step in the shoes of a very special soldier that has a lot of crazy shit happen to him you won’t be disappointed.

GAME #2: 

Next we have probably the second most anticipated game of the year, especially if you are a fan of RPG’s: The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.

If we were to sum up the game in one word: that one word would be Dragons. There are dragons in the game, YOU are part dragon (spoiler), there’s towns named after dragons, dragon battles, and I think even a dragon beverage you can order in the taverns. Skyrim is one big dragon fest. AND THAT'S PRETTY AWESOME.

You play as a Dragonborn, and you will face off against many dragons during the game, you’ll also be able to gain dragon allies that can aid you in your quest. See I told you...lots of dragons.

The Elder Scrolls series is know for it’s open world gameplay, and this game is no exception. The world in this game is HUGE, and you’ll be able to play the game any way you want to, completing missions and quests how you see fit.

As with Modern Warfare 3, if you are a fan of RPG’s then you probably already have this pre-ordered as well, but any gamer would be remiss if they didn’t take a spin around the wonderfully conceived open world of Skyrim. The fate of the Empire of Tamriel is in your hands. And also…there be dragons. 

GAME #3: 

And lastly this week...Mario is making his way to the 3DS and he’s bringing the 3D.

Super Mario 3D Land sees Mario again travelling through fun and challenging environments, facing off against the usual gang of enemies. Mario will have new and familiar abilites to help get him through, including the return of the Tanooki suit and a rolling somersault attack.

So in the end all you really need to know is that it’s Mario, it’s 3D, it’s portable. What more do you need?

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

So it has come to the attention of Microsoft that there may be early leaked copies of the new Modern Warfare game circulating, so they thought they would address it. Harshly.

Xbox Live Director of Policy, Stephen Toulouse, said if you play the game early (before its Nov 8 release date) you could risk having your xbox live account itself banned! This came AFTER he had originally tweeted that it was ok to play the game if you somehow obtained an early copy.

But don’t place all the blame on Stephen, pressure seemed to come from activision. Just listen to his last tweet on the subject "clarification: dblchk'd with Activision," Modern Warfare 3 pre-release play not authorized. So pls be patient. Playing early may impact your account!"

So to summarize just wait till November 8th to be a bad ass military dude. The armed forces will be there with open arms, waiting with YOU to help save the day, sniper rifle in hand.

http://www.1up.com/news/playing-modern-warfare-3-early-can-get-you-banned

Story 2:  

Reports are coming in that Nintendo has recently filed a patent for a slide on accessory for the Wii remote that adds a touch pad. How does it work? I don’t know .. it has something to do with mirrors and lasers but the real question is … why? Why do I want a touch pad on my Wiimote? Is Nintendo in “super adding peripheral mode”? First the 3DS nub!! now this?

Now we know this has got to be a add on for when the Wii U comes out but holy touchscreen Batman! Touchscreen Wii U controller, touchscreen wiimote add-on. What’s next touchscreen Nintendo branded tracksuit?...Actually, that might be pretty cool.

http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/224627/nintendo-patent-reveals-possible-wii-remote-touchpad-accessory/

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

The War of the Worlds and Dungeon Defenders

SHOW NOTES:

The War of the Worlds

Pub: Paramount Digital Entertainment

Dev: Other Ocean Interactive

For: XBLA

Dungeon Defenders

Pub: Reverb Publishing

Dev: Trendy Entertainment

For: XBLA/PSN/PC/iPhone/Android/PS Vita

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:   

Ok...so I can hear a lot of you out there saying to yourself...Who the hell is Tommy Wiseau? Well for you film fans out there, you probably know him as the writer-director-star of the film The Room, which has been described as the worst film ever made.

Well it seems that Mr. Wiseau has his own little online video game show called “The Tommy Wi Show” where he plays games and comments on them. 

And that’s pretty much it. We really can’t think of anything to say, why don’t you just check it out for yourself [insert clip of show].

Gee...his movie was called the worst ever made....I can’t imagine why.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tommy_Wiseau

http://www.gamezone.com/news/episode-6-of-the-tommy-wi-show-is-ready-for-you

http://www.destructoid.com/the-tommy-wi-show-debuts-and-it-s-yep--212156.phtml

Story 2:  

Since the release of the Playstation Move, there has been a trend of companies taking games they originally made for the Wii...upgrading them with HD graphics...and releasing them again for Sony’s motion controller. Well it looks like Capcom will soon be joining the crowd.

Announced Monday at an event in Japan celebrating the game series 15th anniversary, the company said that they will be releasing the “Resident Evil Chronicles HD Selection”. It will bundle both the Umbrella Chronicles and Darkside Chronicles games together with updated graphics. So far no release date or pricing information has been given. This game will join the large crop of Wii game remakes coming to the Move, that include Dead Space: Extraction, House of the Dead: Overkill, and the recently released Goldeneye: 007 Reloaded.

So Capcom is re-releasing a game to make some more money....that’s about as surprising as saying that your pretty sure that the sun is going to come up tomorrow. Oh well, the games were good, if not great fun. And seeing them with improved graphics might be worth it if the price is right.

http://playstationlifestyle.net/2011/10/31/capcom-announces-resident-evil-chronicles-hd-selection-for-playstation-3/

http://www.destructoid.com/resident-evil-chronicles-hd-selection-coming-to-ps3-214889.phtml

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

Gamers love their games, that is a well known fact. Some gamers also love to celebrate their favorite games by making lovely pieces of artwork. So it goes without saying that when a recent game culture event in England asked a fan art magazine publisher to put together a collection of pieces for the 25th Anniversary of The Legend of Zelda, that the art would pretty amazing. The collection, called Zelda Zine was only released at the event, but some of the images have been posted online, and we think they look pretty cool. 

We like it when gamers can come together over their communal love of all things gaming, and we hope that this sort of thing happens more often in the future.

http://www.destructoid.com/zelda-zine-is-a-grand-collection-of-zelda-fan-art-214833.phtml

Story 2: 

We here at Press Pause are big fans of indie games. We think gamers should play a lot more of them. One problem for a lot of people though is determining if a game is worth your hard earned cash. Well one game portal may have just the solution.

German gaming site Awomo.com will start offering gamers the option of downloading and playing any game on their site and test them out. Gamers will get anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour to test drive a game. If they like it and decide they want to purchase, they will be able to continue from where they left off.

We think that sounds like a win-win for gamers and developers, and we think more outlets should follow suit.

http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/224431/indie-portal-awomo-com-launches-new-game-test-feature/

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

GAME #1: 

First up is the next installment in the critically acclaimed Uncharted series. Drake’s Deception brings the whole gang back as they head into the Arabian desert in search of treasure and adventure. Cinematic story and visuals are the name of the game with this series, and this game looks to continue the trend with a great story and great gameplay. Back again is an expansive multiplayer section that gives players a chance to take on gamers from all over the world in many of the games locations.

So if you’ve played the other games in the series...well you probably pre-ordered this weeks ago. If you haven’t played the series before...what is wrong with you...go and play them NOW!

I’m serious...SHOO!

GAME #2: 

As you saw us talk about last week, EA is back with a new game in it’s Lord of the Rings line of games. War in the North is the first mature rated Lord of the Rings game, so be prepared for lots of blood. Set during the events of the books and movies, you join up with a new fellowship that takes the fight against Sauron to the northern lands of Middle Earth.

It features cooperative game play on the couch, or online. It features shared loot and gold so that no one gets left out of the spoils of war.

If you are a fan of the Rings books or the films, and want to help take down the forces of evil, you should definitely go out and pick this up.

GAME #3: 

Goldeneye: 007 is a game that holds a very special place in many a gamer’s heart, and when gamers learned that the game was being remade, they were obviously excited...until they heard it was coming to the Wii.

Well for those gamers that were hoping for a different outcome, you’re in luck. That remake is getting a remake of it’s own. Goldeneye: 007 Reloaded is taking that game and remastering it with HD visuals and with a brand new game engine. Also added into this version is 16-player online multiplayer and Move support for the PS3 version of the game.

So if you’ve been looking to renew your license to kill, now might be a good time to do so.

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

GAME: 1

Dead Island

Publisher: Techland

For: PS3, Xbox 360, PC

GAME: 2

F.E.A.R. 3

Publisher: Warner Bros.

For: PS3, Xbox 360, PC

GAME 3:

Dead Space 2

Publisher: Electronic Arts

For: PS3, Xbox 360, PC

GAME 4: 

Rise Of Nightmares

Publisher: SEGA

For: Xbox 360

GAME 5:

Dead Nation: Road of Devastation

Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment America

For: PSN

GAME 6: 

Zombie Apocalypse: Never Die Alone

Publisher: Konami 

For: PSN, XBLA

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:   

If you were anxiously awaiting to see what Jakob Porser, creator of Minecraft, and the Mojang team would come up with next, the wait is nearly over. The game is called Scrolls and if you were a fan of Minecraft you probably don’t even care WHAT the game is about. You just want it. Well the official Scrolls website has finally been put up and on said website you can sign up for the upcoming Alpha! 

What is the game? Well the site mentioned it being a RTS type game with collectible card game elements? Oh and there’s scrolls. Probably do some magical scroll-like stuff.  …. it doesn’t matter really. If you were as addicted to Minecraft like most of us were you’ve probably already signed up as I was talking. 

http://www.pixlbit.com/news/1375/scrolls_alpha_sign_up_begins

Story 2:  

And yes you heard us right Pandas will be coming to World Of Warcraft. Cute, bouncing, pandas that do Kung Fu. Wait...isn’t that the premise behind Kung Fu Panda? Like to the tee. But I think I'm ok with it. How can I not want to play as a panda kicking ass?

A couple other WOW announcements came out Blizzcon 2011. One is that the famously famous MMO will now have a sort of Pokemon type creature collecting mode within the game. And to solidify there place as THE MMO to play, Blizzard said they will be GIVING AWAY a free copy of Diablo 3 to anyone who signs up for their new annual subscription plan.

So wait, you want me to sign up for a year, to a game I'm already addicted to and would probably renew monthly anyhow, and you’ll give me a game I've been dying to play for years? Ok...yes. I’ll do that. 

http://www.slashgear.com/world-of-warcraft-introduces-playable-panda-race-for-real-this-time-21190050/

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1: 

Numerous rumors have been coming out over the last week with news that the next Xbox console would be either revealed or released by the end of 2013. Numerous reports suggest that Microsoft will be showing off the new Xbox at E3 2013 and the system would be available a few months later. 

While all this is purely speculation at this point we are anxious to get more details on what some are calling Xbox NEXT. Although how much more realistic can you get with graphics? Maybe the new Xbox will simply be a kinect with xbox built inside, and they’ll all Wii on us.......that's a terrible, terrible idea. Forget I said that Microsoft. 

http://www.1up.com/news/xbox-next-unveiled-launched-213

Story 2: 

As we said at the top of the show amazon is discounting some horror based video games for Halloween. Games like Dead Island, Alien Infestations, and FEAR 3 will be CUT in price so that you can get your spooky on. eh? cut in price? get it?

Just go here (points to bottom of screen) and pickup some scary games to get halloween started early!

http://tinyurl.com/3har2so

http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/224212/amazon-selling-horror-games-for-up-to-85-off-this-month/

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

Coming alongside the upcoming firmware update 3DS owners will be able to soon watch their Hulu on the go. Nintendo confirmed the handheld would have this service bundled in with their latest update as well as a similar update for wii owners.

No release date for when these new updates will roll out but word is its before the end of the year. Now .. just get some 3D hulu content and we’re in business.

http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/224157/hulu-plus-coming-to-wii-and-3ds/

Story 2: 

In other Nintendo news Destructoid was reporting that soon you’ll be able to send letters to people on your friends list with your 3DS. finally you’ll be able to do something other than just ‘count’ the friends that you’ve collected. 

The new application will also allow you to send drawings and 3D photos to anyone on your friends list. so expect some dirty pictures to show up in your 3DS inbox very soon. that being said im actually psyched for this type of feature because we were all just modifying our outgoing messages with our twitter accounts as a workaround. now .. we can just send a Nintendo email.

Sorta.

http://www.destructoid.com/send-messages-to-3ds-friends-letterbox-app-coming-soon-214206.phtml

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1: 

According to geekhangover.com the PSP Vita will be released in the US on Jan. 12, 2012...two 12s in the release date...makes sense there. Great for marketing. Where did he get HIS source? Someone very LEGIT he says. so hey...we’ll believe him enough to spread the rumor.

Remember...you heard it here first. Press Pause. Future seekers. Predictin’ the future and sh*t

http://www.geekhangover.com/news/2011/10/16/ps-vita-us-launch-date-revealed.html

http://www.shacknews.com/article/70680/playstation-vita-launches-in-north-america-in-february

Story 2:  

If you’re a fan of Metal Slug, which how can you NOT be? You might be interested in seeing this video that was leaked showing the game taking place in augmented reality. With a little help from...the Wii U! Interesting! I got to admit we here at Press Pause have been kind of underwhelmed by the Wii U so far (well from the controller..cause we haven't even SEEN the console!) but this implementation looks raaaad.

Now I just wonder how the game will react to my cat jumping on the counter every 5 minutes.

http://gamesalfresco.com/2011/10/12/augmented-reality-metal-slug-on-wii-u/

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1: 

So apparently according to a story that came out Monday a gamer in China has recently completed the super hard RPG Dark Souls in one hour and 26 minutes! What the F?

(looking off camera) that game is the one where you die a million times right? 

Don’t believe me? Hey “I” didn't believe me … so check out some of this footage.

Yep...he did it alright. Man I feel like an inadequate gamer now...(try it---> ) but I'm still hella cute. So take that weird no life gamer!!

http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/224021/man-beats-dark-souls-in-less-than-2-hours/

Story 2: 

So you may be aware that the new Professor Layton game, Professor Layton and the Last Specter, came out, BUT if you haven't picked it up yet you might be interested in this. it has a 100 hour RPG in it!! well not if you’re in Europe. they apparently got the shaft and North American gamers are getting the bonus content in their version. weird.. a professor Layton RPG... but also sweet!

http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/224001/latest-professor-layton-game-featuring-bonus-100-hour-rpg-unless-youre-european-out-today/

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

GAME #1: 

First up is the widely anticipated sequel to one of 2009’s best games. Batman: Arkham City puts you back in the shoes of The Dark Knight as his hunting ground expands to a now city sized Arkham Asylum. Along with the wily Catwoman, you’ll take on many of Batman’s rogue’s gallery: including Two-Face, The Penguin, The Riddler, and the man behind it all Hugo Strange. 

So strap on your utility belt and get ready to hit the dark streets of Gotham. I have a utility belt...I made...so...I’ll just use that.…....YES I'm a nerd!!

GAME #2: 

Next up is the latest in the well loved Professor Layton series. Professor Layton and the Last Specter begins a brand new trilogy with more of the puzzles and brain teasers that fans have come to love about the series. In fact, there will be more puzzles than any other game in the series so far. The game will also feature a new role playing game where the game characters will wander around “Little London,” where players can customize their characters with special clothing and perform tasks to help out the townspeople. 

If you are already a fan of the previous games, or just like a good puzzle as well as a good story, and a damn long intro, be sure to check this out. 

GAME #3: 

In the latest Ratchet and Clank game, All 4 One, our heroic duo will have to team up with the bumbling ex-hero Qwark and their old enemy Dr. Nefarious as they try to escape from a powerful and mysterious machine. In a first for the series, the game will feature four player cooperative game play. You can play together either on the couch or online. It will also have the crazy weapons that the series is know for, as well as unique skills for each character.

The Ratchet and Clank games are always good dumb fun, and who doesn’t need some dumb fun in their life? everyday life can be pretty rough? am i right? dumb fun kinda levels the playing field.

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

Reports are coming in that some Xbox Live accounts are seeing unauthorized purchases going through. The hackers allegedly are accessing the users Microsoft points or their credit card they have on file.

If you’re on Xbox live you should probably make sure the email address associated with your Microsoft live account is up to date, so you’re notified as SOON as any unexpected purchases go through. Keep your shit safe!

http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/223947/updated-xbox-live-suffering-spate-of-hacked-accounts/

Story 2: 

In other Microsoft news, … one thing that has been said about Microsoft was that it needed more first party developers to help make great exclusive games for the 360. Well it looks like they are heeding that call with their latest studio acquisition. Microsoft just announced that they have purchased Twisted Pixel, makers of Splosion Man, Ms. Splosion Man, Comic Jumper, and the upcoming Kinect game Gunstringer.

The Austin, TX based studio will now join the likes of Lionhead, Rare, and 343 in Microsoft’s stable of first party devs.

Since their last four games have been 360 exclusives, this isn’t a complete shock. And if they can keep the great games coming, this can only be a win-win for both of them. Maybe they’ll make a super game with Splosion Man, Comic Jumper, and Gunstringer...using the Kinect to control all the characters!! …..Actually on second thought maybe they shouldn't ...

http://www.1up.com/news/splosion-man-developer-twisted-pixel-acquired-microsoft

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:

Originally slated for late this year, I was hoping before Halloween, the latest in the Silent Hill franchise, Silent Hill: Downpour, has now been pushed back to Q2 of 2012. Although they are working on a new Silent Hill movie, so that's a plus. I guess the consensus was that early demos of the game were pretty awful -- so i guess I'm glad they’re fine tuning it -- but man I want a horror game for Halloween.

Remember when Costume Quest came out before Halloween and you got to experience that theme in a game DURING the time period it represented. Developers can you try to do that more often? I know I know...QA and a ton of bug fixes are hard to plan for  -- horror games coming out on Halloween=awesome. Also games featuring snow filled worlds during Christmas? Just not one of those awful movie based games. (Elf I'm looking at you)

http://beefjack.com/news/silent-hill-downpour-delay-confirmed-by-publisher/

Story 2:  

It is well known that a lot of gamers LOVE the Metal Gear Solid franchise. One person that knows this all to well is series creator Hideo Kojima, and he is prepared for the series to live on, even after his death.

He recently told a crowd at the University of Southern California that he will continue to keep making Metal Gear games as long as people still want to play them. He then stated that “So even after I die, I still would love to have the Metal Gear Solid series continue."

As a fan of the series, I think that’ great. But let’s just hope that they don’t also drive the series into the grave...Y’know when he’s dead.

http://www.destructoid.com/kojima-wants-mgs-to-go-on-after-he-dies-213377.phtml

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show attwitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1: 

Online site GigaOm has said that the new Xbox dashboard update might be hear in late November, and would probably include full Kinect support (instead of that separate menu) and the addition of some of the other video providers everyone’s been psyched about.

Also with them possibly including Silverlight (Microsoft's version of flash) there’s talk about the Xbox possibly getting an app store that would allow outside developers to build not only games...but apps as well. I'm confused on whether or not i think this is awesome or crappy. Right now the XBLA and 360 Experience is fluid and NOT clunky. Afraid of what TOO much openness might bring. We’ll see...

http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/223796/xbox-live-dashboard-update-expected-november-25-uses-silverlight-framework/

Story 2: 

Netflix announced that their recent spin off service Qwikster is already dead.

the idea was to separate out its DVD business into a separate service and keep their streaming service named Netflix. Confusing? Yeah...apparently confusing for other people as well, customers hated the idea. We here at Press Pause mentioned the story because they had mentioned offering up video games as part of the new Qwikster service. But now...well it will just be Netflix...maybe offering up games.

Got all that? 

So now is the time for Qwikster jokes:

Looks like Qwikster was over pretty quick? Eh? 

Too easy.

Hey maybe next time Netflix can launch a new service and call it Deadster. And just pronounce it dead day one.

Eh, trying too hard.

Qwickster ...more like dickster. Cause they dicked over their customers. Am I right?

Ok, I'll stop now. 

http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/10/netflix-cans-qwikster-service-staying-whole/

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

GAME #1: 

First up is the latest in the in Microsoft’s long running racing series. Forza Motorsport 4 takes the series in a new direction. It has brand new challenges, as well as all new social interactions., which could turn out to be pretty cool. AND as an added bonus, the game will feature content from the experts from Top Gear, as well as the ability to interact with the game controller-free with your Kinect.

So if you own a 360 with a Kinect, and love racing games, this might be just thing to get your pulse racing. Really again? That's our punchline. I need to sit in on these writing meetings.

GAME #2: 

Next we have Namco’s latest Ace Combat game. Ace Combat: Assault Horizon features a dramatic and realistic storyline written by New York Time best selling author Jim DeFelice that will take players to many locations spanning the globe. Players will find many new aircraft to fly, featuring incredible detail and realistic damaging.

GAME #3: 

Next up is actually a re-release of last year’s zombies in Vegas game, Dead Rising 2.

Dead Rising 2: Off The Record brings back the first game’s protagonist Frank West in what Capcom is calling a reinterpretation of the game that tells the same story, but now features Frank as he makes his way through Fortune City and ANOTHER zombie outbreak. how man of these things are there?? 

The game brings back the picture taking game mechanic from the original Dead Rising, along with new missions, new enemies, and new weapons. It also has system upgrades, with optimized load times and improved network performance.

They say what happens in Vegas (or in this case Fortune City) stays there. Let’s hope the same holds true for the undead. …. that’s better. I kinda like that

GAME #4: 

And lastly today we have a game that is a little different than most, and is coming from the guys over at Double Fine Productions.

Sesame Street: Once Upon A Monster is a Kinect game coming to the Xbox 360. It features Elmo, Cookie Monster, and many other Sesame Street monsters as they go on a storybook adventure. Gamers will help them find their friends and help solve their problems. 

The game is obviously geared towards younger gamers, with many fun and engaging activities such as: monkey-see-monkey-do; playing instruments; and running obstacle courses. 

But if you’re a gamer with young children, and you want to get them involved in games in a fun way, with characters that they love, this works. 

Side note: Elmo was kinda a dick on Jimmy Fallon the other night...it was weird

just thought I’d mention it.

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:  

Rumor has it that 2 of the writers behind Toy Story are talking with Zynga to produce a movie based on one of their franchises. And I use the word “franchise” loosely. Let’s face it they’ve basically just ripped off other franchises and added a monetization layer on top of em..then said look how creative we are! 

Farmville...The Movie. Come on

http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/223714/farmville-may-head-to-silver-screen-thanks-to-toy-story-writers/

Story 2: 

SO independent developer Terry Cavanagh who made the indie game VVVVVV

will be making his debut on the 3DS! We had had this game on our radar for awhile ever since it was released back 2010 and now...our little boys all grown up!

The game features the main character Captain Viridian who can change gravity, which of course helps him solve all sorts of puzzles and platforming challenges. 

Whats better it will be offered up as 3DS ware. Y’know that section on your 3DS that basically has nothing in it. But what a way to start…a rad indie game. Thanks Nintendo. Seriously. thanks

http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/223701/pc-platform-vvvvvv-is-making-its-way-to-the-3ds-eshop/

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

Dan Hsu, John Davison, and I give you our thoughts on Rage.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:

So according to an NPD report spending on digital gaming has risen 17% over the last 2 years.  The report went on to say that in general kids start downloading digital content from an early age, with 50 percent of them having downloaded some form of digital content by age 7!

We’re all for digital goods becoming popular and getting rid of this wasteful box copy stuff - buuuut really age 7? So if 50 percent of them downloaded something BY age 7 does that mean 5 year old kids are using Steam and XBLA? I feel OLD. When I was a kid (yep here it comes) we were lucky to get a connection with our 300 baud modem using our telephone line!  And you might be saying whats a baud modem?! Well think 56k modem and then think ALOT slower.

http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/37670/NPD_Kids_Digital_Game_Spending_Up_17_In_Last_Two_Years.php

Story 2:  

A little while back developer of Alan Wake Remedy had mentioned they were working on some more Alan Wake that was neither DLC or Alan Wake 2. Curious! Rumor is that the game is based on the in-game Twilight Zone-esque TV show “Nightsprings” that was in Alan Wake.

ALSO rumors have been circulating that the ACTUAL Alan Wake 2 game coooould be coming out on the next xbox console. A group of other developers have been rumored to be working on next-gen titles already so it wouldn't be thaat much of a stretch. 

whatever system their new Alan Wake content comes out on -- I’ll prob be buying. however please...please. no more birds. I'm so over birds in games. they all suck. and don't play fair!

http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/rumor-alan-wake-2-in-production-for-the-next-xbox/

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1: 

So when the PS3 was originally released, it had the ability to play PS2 game discs, but over the course of it’s life, as Sony reduced the price, they removed this feature. grumble grumble from the audience … I know. After that, aside for the many HD remake collections, the only way you could play a PS2 game was on a PS2. It LOOKS like that might be changing though. 

Sony announced  a new promotion called “Only On PSN” which highlights exclusives that will be coming to the network. Mentioned among the many downloadable titles, Sony announced that they would be releasing five “rare classic games,” including God Hand, Odin Sphere, Ring of Red, GrimGrimoire, and Maximo: Ghosts to Glory.

No price has been given for how much these games will cost, however if the price is low enough, it may be a good deal. Also, if these sell well, it may even lead to more full PS2 game releases on PSN in the future.

I’m holding out for Disaster Report!

http://www.1up.com/news/psn-exclusive-game-promotion-launched-select-ps2-games-digital-release

Story 2: If you’re a fan of Super Meat Boy and indie games that are awesome, then you might wanna check out the new, albeit weird looking title “The Binding of Issac”. Now while this game has a cool art style and interesting gameplay mechanic...let me just read the copy on steam...explaining the setup for the game: “When Isaac’s mother starts hearing the voice of God demanding a sacrifice be made to prove her faith, Isaac escapes into the basement facing droves of deranged enemies, lost brothers and sisters, his fears, and eventually his mother.”

What the helllllll?

I’ll still play it

http://store.steampowered.com/app/113200/?snr=1_4_4__13

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

GAME #1: 

First up is the brand new first person shooter from from id Software, which im buying day one. Rage takes place in a not too distant future where a asteroid impacted the Earth, leaving behind a world that has been devastated. Your character will travel this vast wasteland, facing hordes of gangs, mutants, and the oppressive governmental Authority. Featuring id’s all new idTech 5 engine that will feature stunning visuals (although at a larger file size, as we mentioned last Wednesday). The game looks stunning, and the expanded gameplay .. vehicle stuff and not just first person .. seems rad.

So suit up and head out into the wasteland with me - and lets get our Rage on. theres something dirty there .. like right almost there. rage on ..? never mind.

GAME #2: 

Next up is Dark Souls. The spiritual sequel to 2009’s Demon Souls will again challenge players with a world where you have lost your soul, and go on a quest to get it back.

The 60 hour game features a seamless world, with unforgiving and punishing gameplay, flexible character development, and online player interaction. AND yes .. its harder. 

So if you want to give up a chunk of your life to an addictive and torturous game...Dark Souls is a safe bet.

GAME #3: 

2K Sports is know for their basketball series, and this year’s version is a celebration of the greatest NBA players of all time. It  will feature tons of legendary players as well some very cool visual affects when playing in different eras. Graining and black and white footage for older time periods is a way cool addition. 2K12 will aslo feature a new control mechanic that gives more ball control, and you’ll be able to shoot, pass, steal, dribble and dunk more effectively. I tried this and shooting with the right stick actually felt damn good. 

Listen .. 2K should be making the madden games and this game is the reason. The stadiums, audience, montages, player interactions and physics. This is how sports games should be made.

[looking at camera] EA, I'm looking at you.

GAME #4: 

And lastly today we have a brand new Spiderman game from the same developers who created the well received Spiderman: Shattered Dimensions.

Like that game, Spiderman: Edge of Time takes place in two different times, featuring the modern day Amazing Spiderman, and the distant future Spiderman 2099.

The game will take place over both times, as one man goes back to the past, which will create a future dystopia, and lead to the death of Peter Parker. The game features a cause and effect gameplay system where the actions in one time will affect the other and vice versa. 

If you are a fan of Spiderman, and enjoyed Shattered Dimensions, then this game sounds like it should scratch your superhero itch. and also .. have you pondering future dystopia.

I wonder if we could cause one? Y’know a future dystopia. You wanna try...after the show?

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1: 

Ubisoft’s long delayed game I Am Alive is now living up to it’s title. The game will finally see a release on XBOX Live Arcade and the Playstation Network at an unspecified time “this winter.”

In what could easily be just ANOTHER post-apocalyptic action game, I Am Alive puts players in the shoes of a man who is searching for his wife and child in the aftermath of an unknown “event” that has decimated the city. Looking for food and water to stay .. alive. AND whenever you add a family into the mix it adds that extra umph to take it out of the mundane cookie cutter action game. So points for that.

The game intrigued a lot of people when it was first announced, then it fell off everyones radar, but has since got a re-engineering. With a brand new trailer, and some intriguing gameplay, here’s hoping that the game gets a firm released date, so that gamers can try and see if they can say they are still alive. Really? That was our punchline? OK..

http://kotaku.com/5845116/i-am-alive-lives-up-to-its-name-once-again-winter-release-imminent

Story 2: 

Did you watch the recent Mortal Kombat: Legacy live-action web series and think to yourself: “That’s really good, they should make a full length movie out of this.” Well my friend, you’re in luck. 

News as come out that Warner Bros. owned New Line Cinema is interested in producing a new feature length film based on the popular fighting game series.

The film will be directed by Kevin Tancharoen, the same man who directed the well received 12-part web series that came out to promote the most recent game. Like Legacy, the movie will feature a more realistic approach to the characters and is expected to have a budget “well under $100 million,” according to a report in Variety.

The original Mortal Kombat movie was dumb fun, while the second one was horrendous (in our opinion), but we’re really interested to see them expand on the Legacy series. but if the movie tanks then i guess it would truly be a fatality for any more Mortal Kombat movies. Really ? Again? That's our punchline? It’s so on the nose.

Can I try another?

If the movie tanks I guess not even a friendship would save this franchise

(i think that's worse)

If the movie tanks looks like the only Mortal Kombat we’ll see at the theaters is two nerds fighting over the last free Harry Potter poster

Yeah, lets go with that one.

http://www.shacknews.com/article/70403/new-mortal-kombat-movie-and-game-planned-2013

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause tomorrow at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1:

File this under weird, but interesting. News came out recently that the Metal Gear Solid would be coming out as a board game soon. Risk: Metal Gear Solid is a version of the classic strategy board game, but has now added story elements from the popular game series as a hook. Players will compete as one of five Private Military Companies that are vying for global supremacy. The game will run using the updated 2008 rules and will feature six zones, with 42 territories, and the Outer Haven battleship.

The game will cost $50, and be sold exclusively through the website USAopoly.com. No release date has been given, but you can pre-order the game starting on October 3rd.

http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/risk-metal-gear-solid-sneaking-out-sometime-soon/

Story 2:  

Hey! Are you a fan of the Uncharted series? Do you live in the following cities? [flash city names at the bottom of the screen] Do you want a chance to play Uncharted 3, and even get the game early? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then listen up as I drop some details on you.

In mid October, select AMC theaters in Los Angeles, New York, Washington, DC, Dallas, and San Francisco will be hosting a special event. Called “Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception: Play It First In 3D,” gamers will get a chance to play Nathan Drake’s latest adventure in 3D on a movie screen. If this sounds like something you’d like to try,it’ll set you back $25. However, if you drop $60 on the “Uncharted 3 Premium Pass” you’ll not only get to play the game in a theater, but you’ll also be sent a copy of the game on October 25, one week before the game is officially released on November 1st.

http://kotaku.com/5843453/heres-how-to-get-uncharted-3-a-week-early

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. Make sure to check out our live discussion show next Tuesday at twitch.tv/presspause at 12pm Pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at youtube.com/presspausemevio.

Story 1: 

Gamers have been anxiously waiting for BioWare’s upcoming Star Wars MMO, and now they can finally circle a date on their calenders. News came out last weekend that The Old Republic WILL be released in 2011, if just barely. The game will be released on December 20 in the US and December 22 in Europe, though gamers can get early access to the game if they pre-order from participating retailers. The game comes with 30 days of access, then afterwards gamers can pay an access fee starting at $14.99 a month.

So if you’ve been looking for an alternative to your World of Warcraft gaming crack, and are a Star Wars fan, you should head to your closest gaming retailer and pre-order today.

http://www.1up.com/news/star-wars-the-old-republic-release-date

Story 2:

id’s brand new first person shooter Rage has been on gamers radar for quite some time, but if you were planning to take the game for a spin, you might want to make sure that you REALLY want to play it.

News has come out that the game is very large. How large you ask? Well, ridiculously would probably describe it best. The game will ship on three discs on the XBOX 360, and will require an 8GB install for the PS3 version. And I hear you PC gamers saying, “HA! that’s why you should play it on a PC.” Well for PC gamers, the game will require 25 GBs of hard drive space, so no one is really getting off easy here.

Now, don’t get us wrong, We here at Press Pause think that this could be a really awesome game, but that's a lot of road to traverse. here's hoping for a fast travel option.

http://www.shacknews.com/article/70327/rage-is-three-discs-on-xbox-360-requires-8gb-install

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause next Tuesday at 12 pm pacific. Also edited episodes can be found at youtube.com/presspausemevio.

GAME #1: 

First up we have two competing soccer games to scratch your Fútbol itch. 

EA brings you the latest entry in it’s long running FIFA series. This year’s game has many great features including precision dribbling, which gives you more control of the ball. You’ll also be able to play against your friends online, and there’s an Ultimate Team mode that lets you build your perfect team from some of the best stars in the game. Also a new career mode. 

GAME #2: 

On the other side is Konami with it’s latest Pro Evolution Soccer game. 

Konami is bringing improved teammate AI as well as an overhauled collision system, new off the ball controls, challenging defensive assignments, and updated graphics.

So if you have a love for soccer you now have two rad options to get ballin’. eh?

GAME #3: 

And lastly is an all new X-Men game that puts you in the shoes of a brand new mutant. X-Men: Destiny features three all new mutant characters with unique histories and backgrounds. You will get to choose whether you will side with the X-men or the Brotherhood of Mutants.

You’ll be able to define and evolve your character, as you select, expand, and enhance your powers. 

Your actions will shape and change the world around you. well that's what the copy says .. I'm not sure if you’ll actually change the world around YOU. But probably to the guy in the game. cause would be weird if you know...change space and time by playing an X-Men game.

That will do it for your daily dose of Press Pause. Be sure to check out our live discussion show next Tuesday over at twitch.tv/presspause at 12 pm pacific. You can also find fully edited episodes over at our Youtube channel: youtube.com/presspausemevio.

SHOW NOTES:

Story 1: 

So Blizzard says its going to push back its release of Diablo 3 to early sometime 2012. We here at Press Pause are ooooooover it. Yes it’s a top down RPG with new class systems and rad multiplayer, but it IS not worth waiting years for. The only good takeaway is that they might be adding more beta testers to fill in the gap of time you’ll have to wait to play the game.

Still over it. Think I'll go play crimson alliance and torchlight instead.

http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/223324/diablo-3-pushed-back-to-early-2012/

Story 2: 

Now onto a game this IS coming out..or rather is out right now. OIO has been released by french developer Uncanny Games and looks pretty rad. You play as a little wooden guy trying to figure out what happened to your people, as you traverse a pretty amazing looking world. Think Limbo. Which is definitely a compliment. The game will have platforming and puzzle solving, as well as have some unique ways to use the objects and the environment around you. 

The game is available for PC and Mac over at gamersgate and available for PC only also on Impulse and Desura. 

http://www.oio-thegame.com/

That will do it for your daily dose of press pause, be sure to check out our live discussion show at twitch.tv/presspause next Tuesday at 12 pm pacific. Also edited episodes can be found at presspause.mevio.com.