tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35904387979082905932024-03-04T20:42:57.087-08:00The XBL IndieverseUniversal Xbox Indie CoverageDeeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.comBlogger24125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-86202106249684251772011-03-29T19:11:00.000-07:002011-03-31T00:36:22.305-07:00Breaking News: XBLIG Ratings Scam?<div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="123" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J70WdZ9xhJI/TWz7hZ72a5I/AAAAAAAAByY/6-3TFcyp59M/s400/%255Bnew%255D+XBL+Indieverse+Breaking+News+Banner.jpg" width="400" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">According to articles in the XBLIG/XNA Community there have been rumors of a Ratings scandal responsible for a number of games being knocked out of their places on certain high priority lists like "Top Rated.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Upon investigation of the Top Rated section of the Xbox Indies Marketplace, I noticed a few odd things in the placement of the games themselves: Bonded Realities has over 1000 ratings and has a 4.25-Star average, Solar has nearly 3000 ratings. Apparently it's a coincidence that all the Lacrosse games are on the Top Rated list--2010, 2011 and the other title as well.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">The strangest change in placement is Cthulhu Saves the World's position--being a fan favorite and highly acclaimed title, it only has 1781 Ratings with a 4 star average. The whole thing seems to be a big mess, and the developers have been busy informing the Xbox Indie/XNA Community about the apparent disruption in the lists.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">I want to reiterate that the rating changes don't reflect on my personal opinion as a reviewer--newly higher rated titles aren't of lesser quality, it's just that their normal placement has had a sort of paradigm shift--some games are naturally on the lower end of the spectrum while others are on the upper side.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Any XNA developer who's published a game knows that these lists determine your overall sales and success, and getting placed (and staying) on these all-important listings. In light of this manipulation, the official <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/XNACommunity/">XNA Community Twitter</a> has launched an investigation that will look into the matter at hand.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="121" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HMmcH1FkAJQ/TZKQL5UbZqI/AAAAAAAAB1w/7wwpJ4h5Qfk/s400/Top-30-Xbox-Live-Indie-Games.jpg" width="400" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">A number of titles have been negatively affected by this conniving scandal, some of which are well-known games like Cthulhu Saves the World. This supposed scam also seems to be favoring certain games like College Lacrosse 2010--is there a direct correlation? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Perhaps, but only Microsoft knows for sure.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Whatever the case, these tactics are underhanded and I believe it's not something the XNA Community is happy about one bit. Many developers and even reviewers are spreading the word and are eager to hear the actual findings from the official XNA Community representatives from Microsoft.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="68" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV-d1ggXd_OsHv_1ynqpATdczJxgpLXc9Eriv5nEnA4EJYwBIt3TBDqJZbByzGUFAhJSWI4NhuAhzpG7nTEtVfvAXe4ED2eylXdNOiXtcJ96VxfmNzp4efuxWlbjd03O7synxO1ANqbF4/s320/xna_logo.jpg" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Xbox Indie developers work hard on their titles, and to see something like this happen in their own virtual backyard, so to speak, is unnerving--this unbalances the playing field and distorts many aspects of the ratings system itself. Rather than helping the games, the ratings system has been convoluted in such a way that hinder certain titles.</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="51" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gdsOxL0yBmY/TZKM5Z_F67I/AAAAAAAAB1s/Da4iY2Xf1oo/s320/XNA+Scam.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The original Tweet made by the official XNA Community account.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Updates to this post will come as news arrives, however for now be sure to read up on <a href="http://www.gamemarx.com/news/2011/03/27/ratings-scandal-numbers.aspx">GameMarx's Ratings Scandal Article</a> for more information. Also, if that article doesn't satiate your thirst for knowledge in this matter, check out <a href="http://xboxindies.wordpress.com/2011/03/23/are-lacrosse-fans-down-rating-games/">Achievement Locked's article</a> as well as The Armless Octopus' <a href="http://www.armlessoctopus.com/2011/03/29/developers-claim-xbox-live-indie-game-ratings-are-being-sabotaged/#more-1099">Xbox Indies Sabotage</a> article for supplementary reading.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Stay tuned for updates!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">--Deeke777</div><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> dek777@gmail.com</div>Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-18298747508526033522011-03-14T11:59:00.000-07:002011-03-21T17:15:57.248-07:00Breaking News: Cthulhu Saves the World Update!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-J70WdZ9xhJI/TWz7hZ72a5I/AAAAAAAAByY/6-3TFcyp59M/s400/%255Bnew%255D+XBL+Indieverse+Breaking+News+Banner.jpg" width="400" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Zeboyd Games</b> officially announces it's update of the popular Xbox Indie RPG "Cthulhu Saves the World" with a new lengthy and zany title: Cthulhu Saves The World: The Super Hyper Enhanced Championship Edition Alpha Diamond DX Plus Alpha FES HD – Premium Enhanced Game of the Year Collector’s Edition (without Avatars!).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Yes, it's quite a mouthful, and it not only adds to the whole parody theme that is prominent in Zeboyd titles, but also gives a humorous twist to what many gamers have found is a seriously good title.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cthulhu Saves the World appeared in the Indie Games Winter Uprising or IGWU for short, and is one of more popular Xbox Indie RPG's on the marketplace. CStW has been hailed across the gaming community as a fantastic game and has received positive reviews overall. Personally I believe that is a must-have for any RPG fan, especially die-hard gamers that are looking for a great way to convert MSP into hours of fun.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img alt="Cthulhu Saves the World" class="boxart" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550756_World/xboxboxart.jpg" title="Cthulhu Saves the World" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Some of the new features that the this expanded version will include are: </div><ul><li> <b>Director's Commentary Mode</b>: Specific Tokens are peppered all across the game, each of which detailing certain interesting factoids about the game itself with a myriad of different subjects--basically you get a first-hand glimpse inside of the developer's influences and ideas for CStW.</li>
</ul><ul><li> <b>Re-Balanced Gameplay</b>: Certain monsters and abilities have been modified to re-balance the game, changing it for the better. There is also a new Insanity difficulty and a ridiculously-difficult dungeon for the best of the best to test their mettle.</li>
</ul><ul><li><b> A Hint to Zeboyd's Next Title: </b>The new update also includes an obscure hint at Zeboyd Games' next game title--this tidbit is sure to tease fans of the tentacled demon from all over the community.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/G-OGUgxdAYM?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Awesome YouTube video for "Hey There Cthulhu", a song set to video footage of CStW.</div><br />
For the <a href="http://zeboyd.com/2011/03/14/cthulhu-saves-the-world-super-hyper-enhanced-championship-edition-alpha-diamond-dx-plus-alpha-fes-hd-premium-enhanced-game-of-the-year-collectors-edition-without-avatars-official-press-release/">official press release</a><a href="http://zeboyd.com/2011/03/14/cthulhu-saves-the-world-super-hyper-enhanced-championship-edition-alpha-diamond-dx-plus-alpha-fes-hd-premium-enhanced-game-of-the-year-collectors-edition-without-avatars-official-press-release/"> </a>to CSTW:SHECEADDPAFH – PEGYCE (WA!) and more information on Cthulhu Saves the World and its upcoming update, visit <a href="http://zeboyd.com/">Zeboyd Games' website</a>.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img alt="http://www.biocrowd.com/client/biocrowd/images/twitter-logo.png" src="http://www.biocrowd.com/client/biocrowd/images/twitter-logo.png" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://twitter.com/werezompire">Follow Zeboyd Games on Twitter</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img alt="http://www.gotexan.org/restaurantroundup/images/facebook.png" src="http://www.gotexan.org/restaurantroundup/images/facebook.png" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php#%21/pages/Cthulhu-Saves-The-World/168955949814962">Like Cthulhu Saves the World on Facebook</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img alt="http://msn.mess.be/data/thumbnails/33/92.png" src="http://msn.mess.be/data/thumbnails/33/92.png" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Cthulhu-Saves-the-World/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d80258550756?cid=FBLike">CStW on the Xbox Live Marketplace!</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">--Deeke777</div> The XBL Indieverse <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> dek777@gmail.com</div> [Mħ±Î©Ø®è]<br />
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</div>Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-76554276559489041162011-03-12T08:01:00.000-08:002011-03-12T17:39:33.893-08:00Breaking News: Fortress Crafters<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-J70WdZ9xhJI/TWz7hZ72a5I/AAAAAAAAByY/6-3TFcyp59M/s400/%255Bnew%255D+XBL+Indieverse+Breaking+News+Banner.jpg" width="400" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Inspired from the PC gaming sensation known as Minecraft, which of course was inspired from a number of titles--including Infiniminer, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dwarf_Fortress">Dwarf Fortress</a>, and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dungeon_Keeper">Dungeon Keeper</a>--comes the revolutionary Xbox Indie known as FortressCraft.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b></b> <img id="SiteLogo" src="http://fortresscraft.com/Content/Logo.png" /><a href="http://fortresscraft.com/"> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>"FortressCraft'ers" YouTube Channel</b></div><hr />This game is scheduled for a mid-late March release, and it's not officially breaking news, but up until now we haven't been able to find many FortressCraft videos on the internet. The YouTube Channel <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/fortresscrafters">"FORTRESS CRAFTers"</a> brings fans what they've been clamoring for--full video footage of FortressCraft in action.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_MJ1C7guvKo/TXuT-liBCxI/AAAAAAAAB1Y/C2AIe-wwBwY/s1600/FortressCraft+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_MJ1C7guvKo/TXuT-liBCxI/AAAAAAAAB1Y/C2AIe-wwBwY/s320/FortressCraft+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>We've been able to see snippets of FortressCraft's capabilities in <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/fortresscrafters">ProjectorGames' YouTube Channel</a>, however in this new channel we will see footage of the "best FortressCraft videos on the web", and the awesome creations therein.<br />
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Be sure to Subscribe to both ProjectorGames' and Fortress Crafter's YouTube Channels to be updated on new videos, info, and more about this upcoming Xbox Indie.<br />
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For more information on FortressCraft and the studio that created it visit <a href="http://projectorgames.net/">ProjectorGames' website</a> or the homesite for <a href="http://fortresscraft.com/">FortressCraft</a>.<br />
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--Deeke777<br />
The XBL Indieverse <br />
dek777@gmail.com<br />
[Mħ±Î©Ø®è]Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-62839641936591811232011-03-10T13:14:00.000-08:002011-03-10T13:14:20.498-08:00Breaking News: Epic Dungeon Updated!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-J70WdZ9xhJI/TWz7hZ72a5I/AAAAAAAAByY/6-3TFcyp59M/s400/%255Bnew%255D+XBL+Indieverse+Breaking+News+Banner.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
On our first installment of XBL Indieverse's Breaking News articles we'll be focusing on one of my favorite Xbox Indie games: <b>Epic Dungeon's</b> new updates. The new changes rolled out on March 7th, and they really do revolutionize the game completely--with awardments, a new Epic mode for hardcore players, and even a Grim Reaper to discourage EXP farming, these updates add a new level of depth to the title.<br />
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<b>Epic Dungeon</b> <sup><sub>80 MSP</sub></sup><br />
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<img alt="Epic Dungeon" class="boxart" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550706_World/xboxboxart.jpg" title="Epic Dungeon" /><br />
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<b>Epic Dungeon</b>, even before the expansive updates, was an amazing Xbox Indie that has been highly rated and favored throughout the Xbox Live community when it was released on the Winter Uprising holiday event.<br />
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The Indie Games Winter Uprising was an awesome event held on the main Xbox Live dashboard for all gamers to see, and there are many great titles released for this gaming function--big titles like Crossfire 2, the awesome RPG Cthulhu Saves the World, and of course Epic Dungeon.<br />
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Now let's get right into the core of some of Epic Dungeon's update changes:<br />
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<i><b>Epic Dungeon now has Epic Difficulty!</b></i><br />
The biggest change I'd have to say is the difficulties: there are now Easy, Normal, and Epic game modes, each of which have their own balances and attributes--easy being self explanatory, average play falling under Normal, and Epic mode is just what it sounds like--a challenging and punishing roguelike adventure.<br />
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Epic mode is considerably harder than the former modes, however, and shouldn't be played by beginning players. Gamers who are confident in their method and strategies should attempt this game mode, as it can be extremely frustrating for newbies.<br />
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<i><b>Unlockable Awardments!</b></i><br />
Another huge addition is the Awardments. There are a total of 24 Awardments amounting to a total of 250 points. These act just like achievements, and there even little quotes and symbols associated with them. Awardments offer players to experience the game in a few different ways, and it inspires gamers to play it time and time again to unlock these mini-achievements.<br />
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<i><b>Platformer Bonus Stage!</b> </i><br />
There is also a unique extra game mode that players can come across as one of many Random Events found across the fifty dungeon levels. This extra mode is like a classic platformer, and players must collect as many coins as possible as the screen scrolls, the trick is to time your jumps correctly.<br />
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Eventually the platform surfaces get smaller and smaller as players progresses, making it quite difficult. Don't worry once you fall, though--your character won't die, he'll simply teleport to the previous location with the appropriate amount of Gold that was collected in the bonus stage.<br />
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<b><i>(Don't) Fear the Reaper! </i></b><br />
As a long-time veteran of Epic Dungeon I've learned that exp farming is an incredibly advantageous strategy--not any more, however. Since the new update, players are discouraged from exp farming by a horribly strong Grim Reaper enemy that appears when players spend too much time killing monsters in a certain level.<br />
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While this has disadvantages, it is also a unique addition because it balances gameplay and makes it so gamers can't simply spend hours and hours becoming more powerful by farming gold, exp, and items. The only downside I notice with this feature is that exp farming is one of the only ways that I can see to beat Epic difficulty, and if the Reaper comes out there should be more than fifty dungeon-levels.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For more info on Epic Dungeon and the studio behind the game, Eyehook Games, visit their <a href="http://www.eyehook.com/">website</a>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/g9yB0-9RfK4?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-67915292169025705312011-03-08T18:57:00.000-08:002011-03-08T19:01:39.457-08:00Review: The Hearts of Men<img border="0" height="123" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-OuEdnHA0PqM/TWz_iW7mn9I/AAAAAAAABys/uiM-br5wTD0/s400/%255Bnew%255D+XBL+Indieverse+Review+Banner.jpg" width="400" /><br />
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Today on XBL Indieverse Reviews we'll be taking a look at a fantastic top-down Indie title called "Hearts of Men" by Coltran Studios. This game is a great addition to any gamer's Xbox Indies library, especially those that enjoy local co-op games that focus on team play. <br />
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<b>The Hearts of Men</b> <sup><sub>80 MSP</sub></sup><br />
<hr />This particular Xbox Live Indie Game has elements that are similar to other games such as the XBLA title "Gauntlet", especially in its utilization of co-op team dynamics and how the levels are designed. This game is a great title for gamers who like to play with others, especially with three other players--four player unlocks the full potential for fun in "The Hearts of Men".<br />
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<img alt="The Hearts of Men" class="boxart" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507E1_World/xboxboxart.jpg" title="The Hearts of Men" /><br />
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<ul type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal"> <b>Rating</b> – <img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-l5vP5zZRYaM/TXDge9xpGfI/AAAAAAAABzU/pSf8PXVLKQU/s1600/4stars.jpg" /></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Developer</b> – Coltran Studios (misterjz)</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Genre</b> – Classics</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>XBL Marketplace URL</b> – <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/The-Hearts-of-Men/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585507e1">The Hearts of Men</a></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Release Date</b> – 3/4/2011</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Try or Buy?</b> – <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/The-Deep-Cave/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585506f7?cid=search&purchase=1&DownloadType=GameDemo"></a><a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/The-Hearts-of-Men/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585507e1?purchase=1&DownloadType=GameDemo">Try</a> Before you Buy</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Price </b>– 80 MSP</li>
</ul><i>"Grab your friends and prepare for the ultimate Hack n Slash throwback! Classic gameplay meets amazing graphics in this first release from super indie developer COLTRAN Studios. Button Mash your way through +10 levels of demonic mayhem and encounter epic boss battles sure to make your thumb bleed!"</i><br />
<div style="text-align: right;">--Xbox Live Marketplace Description</div><div style="text-align: right;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>I. Story Line</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
Four adventurers reach the steps to an ancient dark tower that seems to radiate corruption and evil. This vile monolith stands as an aegis to all that is malignant in the world, and it is up to our heroes to dispel the decadence within. Armed with their abilities and their wits, our protagonists must slay the hordes of evil monsters to bring salvation to the lands and to stop the castle's eternal fiery reign over the world.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Can our band of wayfaring warriors smite the wickedness that lies within the hallowed walls of the ancient keep, or will they be consumed by the darkness and be slain like whole armies have before them at the gates of this evil dungeon? It's up to players to find out in this exciting and fun Xbox Indie!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image from The Hearts of Men" height="359" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507E1_World/screen1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The four different usable characters in The Hearts of Men</i></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table><br />
<b>II. Game Mechanics</b><br />
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This game functions very similarly to the XBLA title Gauntlet in its design and overall dynamics, especially in the respect that co-op play has an advantage over single-player. Gamers can enjoy up to four-player co-op, and having even a second players can be an enormous help--however if you're looking for a challenge, single-player is the way to go.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Besides having co-op, this game also has two types of difficulty modes: Classic, which has more hordes of monsters for players to defeat, and Casual, which is an easier mode for beginner players. There are four different classes of hero for players to choose from: </div><ul><li><b>Warrior</b> The hearty warrior throws two swords at once with each press of the A button.</li>
</ul><ul><li><b>Elf</b> - The arrow-shooting archer who has a high rate of fire and launchers green projectiles at enemies.</li>
</ul><ul><li><b>Warlock</b> - The arcane magic slinging mage that utilizes the arts of spellcasting to fire purple bolts of energy at hostiles. </li>
</ul><ul><li><b>Viking - </b>The vanquisher that uses his brute strength to launch a volley of blue scimitars at enemies.</li>
</ul>When combined in any way, these characters become deadly assets in battle, especially when an entire team of four is playing.<br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Players must utilize the dynamic of shooting swords and spells in one of four directions--diagonal shots are also possible but they're a bit harder to pull off, and in single player it's a bit impossible to run from an enemy and shoot at them at the same time since heroes launch their attacks in whatever direction the character is facing. Single-player is much more difficult for this reason. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image from The Hearts of Men" height="359" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507E1_World/screen4.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The Wizard's main magical spell attack.</i></td></tr>
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Players must also utilize the aggro radius of monsters to their advantage, and to dodge huge groups--normally walls block the monsters yet they will be attracted to players, and it's a useful strategy to play "cat and mouse" when playing with friends.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Health is represented in a numerical format rather than a bar, and this makes it a bit confusing at times to keep up with--however it also gives players an exact reading on their current status. Health can be up to 300 points which is triple the normal 100 hp in some games, yet there is no leveling system to improve characters. Players can also resurrect fallen allies by holding X near a downed friend, bringing them back to life. There aren't any limit of lives unless you're playing on single-player, or if players don't resurrect dead allies in time.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Each character also has a super Special Attack that annihilates most of the enemies on the screen, which is incredibly useful when players are extremely overwhelmed by hordes of creatures, or are very close to death and need a second of salvation. The special attacks are also impressive and have some really neat visual effects and are activated by pressing Y once players have attained a Blue Potion.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">There are over ten stages and levels to play in this game, and each can be selected and re-played at any time with any number of players in a certain party. This allows beginners to go back and play the first level or to have all players join in for the last level's hectic and frenetic action.<b> </b><br />
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<b>III. Weapons/Items</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
There aren't that many items in this game, and each character only utilizes their own signature weapon--there are no variations; Warriors throw swords, Elves shoot arrows, Wizards launch magic and Vikings hurl scimitars. Each characters weapons are a separate color which makes for easy identification while playing with more than one player.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Potions are very important in this game, however. There are three different types of potions that all are essential to getting far in this Xbox Indie; they are <span style="color: blue;">Blue</span>, <span style="color: lime;">Green</span>, and <span style="color: red;">Red</span> Potions.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><ul><li><span style="color: blue;">Blue Potions</span><span style="color: #3d85c6;"> </span><span style="color: blue;">+1 Special Attack</span><span style="color: #3d85c6;"> </span>These potions are coveted and are key to destroying large groups of enemies and when used right can be extremely effective.</li>
</ul><ul><li> <span style="color: lime;">Green Potions Restore Health 100%</span> Green potions are very important and can be the difference between life and death in this game, especially when players are overwhelmed.</li>
</ul><ul><li><span style="color: red;">Red Potions Heal Everyone In Your Party </span>These potions are very useful as well, and can save your friends in hectic moments.</li>
</ul><div style="text-align: left;">There are also Keys in this game that are used to unlock gates--this serves as the main goal in any given stage, and is how players progress to the next level. Sometimes keys can be in obvious places, other times they are hidden in the labyrinthine mazes that fill the stages.<br />
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Overall, the items (such as keys and potions) and the weapons (each character uses a different weapon attack--swords, bows, etc.) are very dynamic and key elements to the game itself. It's very important to maintain a healthy supply of vitality potions and ability potions if players want to succeed past the middle of the game.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image from The Hearts of Men" height="359" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507E1_World/screen2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The Viking's in-game Special Attack</i></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
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<b>IV. Unique Features</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
Four-Player action is a great feature that this Indie uses to provide for hours of enjoyable entertainment. When in a team, even of two-players, this game unlocks its true potential--when using strategies and team efforts, this game becomes something different than it is on Single-Player.<br />
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The graphics and visuals are also a great addition--comic inspired scenes and pictures are prevalent throughout this title, especially on the introduction scene and the main menu, and the character selection screen. This kind of art is somewhat rare to find in an Indie, and it is a very nice touch that appeals to the comic geek in most gamers.<br />
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The Mini-Map is another useful feature that comes in handy in this game. The map is viewed by pressing the Back button, and instead of showing the entire area, it shows the portion that the player is located. The map is unique in that it does not show the main character, his allies, or even enemies--it is strictly a map of the current area. This adds a new challenge to the game that is amplified on Single-Player since you're alone in the areas.<br />
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This Xbox Indie also uses the concept of missile projectiles as the main basis of attack--instead of close-range melee attacks, all characters launch their respective weaponry at enemies--this implementation is very similar to the retro arcade game <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gauntlet">Gauntlet</a> made by Atari Games in the 1980's*.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image from The Hearts of Men" height="359" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507E1_World/screen3.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>This game also features epic boss fights.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>V. Critique</b><br />
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<i>The Good</i><br />
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<i>Four Player Co-Op!</i><b> </b>This title contains all the elements needed for a great bout of co-op action, especially with four-players. A fantastic title to play when friends are over and you need a game to enjoy on the spot. It's fast-paced and doesn't take a while to start up--you're right in the action after a quick load-up, ready to hack and slash enemies with your team.<br />
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<i>It's Fun! </i>The Hearts of Men is a classic Xbox Indie that is at the heart of retro with it's blast-from-the-past dynamics of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hack_and_slash">hack-and-slash</a>* games. It incorporates several aspects gamers will be familiar with, and it's a sure way to enjoy an 80 MSP purchase, especially if you're a gamer that usually plays with friends.<br />
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</i><br />
<i>Great Visuals and Soundtrack! </i>As far as Xbox Indies go, this game has a great soundtrack that flows with the game and the sound effects are very accurate as well--overall the music and the effects combine to deliver what gamers expect from the medieval age. The visuals are astounding, and the comic-inspired graphics are something that is kind of rare in the Xbox Indie scene, especially since they are of exceptional quality. The in-game visual effects are great, too--whether you're using a Special Attack or reviving a player, the visuals are fluid and are very fitting.<br />
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<i>The Bad</i><br />
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<i>Single Player is Hard.</i> Players will notice right away that Single Player is considerably more challenging than local co-op, especially since you can't run and shoot an enemy at the same time. Gamers must be cautious and strategize their attempts even at the very beginning, and some players may find this to be aggrevating.<br />
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<i>Bugs/Glitches</i>. There are a few bugs and glitches some players may notice in gameplay--while these are usually minor, they can sometimes inhibit gameplay and turn some gamers away from the title. These problems will be addressed with updates, so it's really a minor annoyance rather than a huge setback.<br />
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<i>No Loot; Armors/Weapons</i>. I would have liked to see some sort of loot system in play here--sure there are potions, but items such as armor and gold would be great to make it more of a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dungeon_crawl">dungeon crawl</a> type of game, sort of like Xbox Indies <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Epic-Dungeon/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d80258550706?cid=search">Epic Dungeon</a> or <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Dungeon-Adventure/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585503f6?cid=search">Dungeon Adventure</a>.<br />
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<b>VI. Wrap-Up</b><br />
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Overall The Hearts of Men is a great Xbox Indie for many reasons, besides the minor drawbacks; whether its the four player co-operative campaign mode, or the actual frenetic gameplay itself, this XBLIG title is sure to please gamers around the world. Gamers can expect a robust gaming experience full of strategy and challenges, especially when playing solo. Put your button-mashing skills to the test in this fast-paced medieval fantasy game.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/pbtuiZPnoEI?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><b><br />
</b><br />
<b> </b></div><br />
For more information on The Hearts of Men and the developers, visit <a href="http://coltranstudios.com/">Coltran Studios' website</a> for updates, news, and more on this and upcoming Xbox Indie titles.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_628549801"><img alt="http://www.studiocenter.com/files/Images/social-icons/youtube_logo.png" src="http://www.studiocenter.com/files/Images/social-icons/youtube_logo.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/misterjz">Coltran Studios on YouTube</a></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_628549811"><img alt="http://www.biocrowd.com/client/biocrowd/images/twitter-logo.png" src="http://www.biocrowd.com/client/biocrowd/images/twitter-logo.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/COLTRAN">Coltran Studios on Twitter</a></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_628549818"><img alt="http://www.gotexan.org/restaurantroundup/images/facebook.png" src="http://www.gotexan.org/restaurantroundup/images/facebook.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Hearts-of-Men/168993039798926">The Hearts of Men Facebook Page</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Skeptical? Want to try The Hearts of Men out for yourself? Click the picture to download the Free Trial! <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/The-Hearts-of-Men/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585507e1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Hearts of Men" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507E1_World/webboxart.jpg" title="The Hearts of Men" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Hearts of Men Free Demo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>That ends our official look at the funtastic Xbox Live Indie Game "The Hearts of Men" for 80 MSP. As you can see this title is a must-have for all Gauntlet afficionados and fans of the traditional medieval-age top-down slash and hackers out there, and this title also brings us back to the nostalgic, retro age of arcade gaming.<br />
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*Source: Wikipedia Articles <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gauntlet_%28arcade_game%29">Gauntlet</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hack_and_slash">Hack and Slash</a>, & <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dungeon_crawl">Dungeon Crawl</a>.<br />
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--Deeke777<br />
The XBL Indieverse <br />
dek777@gmail.com<br />
[Mħ±Î©Ø®è]Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-12697023795938496142011-03-07T04:33:00.000-08:002011-03-07T04:34:06.313-08:00Review: The Deep Cave<img border="0" height="123" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-OuEdnHA0PqM/TWz_iW7mn9I/AAAAAAAABys/uiM-br5wTD0/s400/%255Bnew%255D+XBL+Indieverse+Review+Banner.jpg" width="400" /><br />
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Welcome to another installment of The XBL Indieverse Reviews. Today we'll focus on a very original Xbox Indie platformer called "The Deep Cave" by PennyBridge Studios. This game is one of the most challenging platformers you'll find on the Xbox Indie marketplace, but it is also very fun and enjoyable, especially to gamers who enjoy hard games.<br />
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<b>The Deep Cave</b> <sup><sub>80 MSP</sub></sup><br />
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<img alt="The Deep Cave" class="boxart" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585506F7_World/xboxboxart.jpg" title="The Deep Cave" /><br />
<ul type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal"> <b>Rating</b> – <img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CuAUBmENzxI/TVzI1aqGtII/AAAAAAAABOE/IWq-kVQIYhY/s1600/3stars.jpg" /></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Developer</b> – Penny Bridge Studios (jijaweb)</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Genre</b> – Platformer</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>XBL Marketplace URL</b> – <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/The-Deep-Cave/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585506f7?cid=search">The Deep Cave</a></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Release Date</b> – 11/23/2010</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Try or Buy?</b> – <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/The-Deep-Cave/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585506f7?cid=search&purchase=1&DownloadType=GameDemo">Try</a> Before you Buy</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Price </b>– 80 MSP</li>
</ul><i>"Retro 8-bit action!!! This is a story about a little boy. He starts his journey by falling down a deep hole. Will he survive the ultimate danger? There are three different endings in the game. Keep your skills together if you want to see them all.</i> "<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">--Xbox Live Marketplace Description</div><br />
<b>I. Story Line</b><br />
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The Deep Cave starts off with players controlling Pi, the main character in this game--the little 8-bit guy--that has jumped down into a cave being attracted by a bright light. Pi believes there's something powerful down below in the caves, and it has drawn his attention.<br />
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All throughout this game we converse with Pi in a humorous dialogue and eventually we learn more about the mysterious bright light that has lured our hero down into the deep cave. Will Pi unlock the secrets to the luring luminescence or will he be trapped in the darkness forever? Players find out in this fun retro adventure.<br />
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<b> </b><img alt="Image from The Deep Cave" height="358" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585506F7_World/screen1.jpg" width="640" /><br />
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<b>II. Game Mechanics</b><br />
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This game functions like most Xbox Indie platformers in terms of game mechanics--players must jump across obstacles, gaps in the level, etc. What sets this game apart from traditional platformers, though, is that it's extremely punishing to new players.<br />
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Similar to the Xbox Indie "BoneD: Dead Men Don't Jump", this game utilizes a system that rewards players who are used to the dynamics of platformers and punishes players who are not. Although I myself find this humorous and original, and it makes me want to continue playing to improve my score, this may be a turn off for most players.<br />
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The object of the game is to beat stages by crossing them without dying--stages can be multi-leveled and are arranged in different ways. Players can't touch certain areas (such as spikes) or get hit by enemies or they die. There is no health, players simple die on the first hit, but there is an infinite pool of lives.<br />
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This game puts heavy emphasis on trial-and-error, and you'll want to expect dying A LOT before you actually beat a level. This mechanic is similar to the Xbox Indie platformer "Aban Hawkins & The 1000 Spikes" in that there is a giant amount of lives and players must expend dozens of lives just to figure out what the best solution is.<br />
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Since gamers are somewhat forced to carefully plan their strategies or use trial and error, this game becomes sort of a puzzler. Players must be very focused and pay attention to everything around them or risk dying and starting all the way over again.<br />
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<b> </b><img alt="Image from The Deep Cave" height="359" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585506F7_World/screen4.jpg" width="640" /><br />
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<b>III. Unique Features</b><br />
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This game has a few unique features for an Xbox Indie platformer, the first of which that players will instantly recognize is the nostalgic 8-bit feel that brings players back to the hey-day of gaming. These low-res graphics allow gamers to be transported back in time to the great arcade-style platformers.<br />
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The games stages are also very unique--every single progressive stage is different and varies in it's own way--sometimes there will be stages that are upside down, sometimes the will be normally set, etc. This new level of variety offers for a unique experience with each stage. <br />
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Another unique element that this particular Xbox Indie has is the incredible level of challenge and difficulty, which is brutal and truly an achievement to complete. This game is by far one of the hardest platformers, and its so goofy and wacky that you don't mind dying a hundred times or so.<br />
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The music in this title is a nice upbeat mixture of looped beats and chiptunes that bring the player into a whole new atmosphere of gaming. The tracks are pleasant to listen to and bring a calming effect to players that may be frustrated by the difficulty of some stages.<br />
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<b> </b><img alt="Image from The Deep Cave" height="359" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585506F7_World/screen3.jpg" width="640" /><br />
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<b>IV. Critique</b><i> </i><br />
<br />
<i>The Good</i><br />
<br />
<i>It's Original. </i>The Deep Cave brings a whole new style of Xbox Indie platformer to the marketplace, and also introduces us to a zany new character that players control throughout the journey. While there are no power-ups or items, there doesn't have to be; the game is a hybrid of puzzler and platformer, putting emphasis on perfect timing.<br />
<br />
<i>Graphics</i>. I really like the low-res, retro graphics in this Xbox Live Indie Game, especially in some of the middle stages and the cave stages. They're entertaining, humorous, and bring a light-hearted spin on the incredible brutality that is associated with some of the puzzle-stages themselves.<br />
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<i>Save at Any Time.</i> As tough as the game may be for some, there is a single function that helps players out, and that is the ability to save your progress at any moment in the game. This is especially useful once you've finally completed that seemingly impossible stage, and don't want to have to redo it all the way over.<br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i>The Bad</i><br />
<br />
<i>It's Very Challenging. </i>The fact that players can expect to die many times over on any given stage makes this game very difficult, especially in the later stages that take upwards of thirty tries to complete. This practice does come in handy, though--playing a standard platformer after mastering The Deep Cave will most likely guarantee a full conquering of that game.<br />
<br />
<i>No Power-Ups/Items. </i>I would have liked to see power-ups and certain items that would reduce the amount of strain and pressure that players may feel when playing this game. Overall the game is more puzzling than it is a platformer, and these features could add some new mechanics that would overall provide for an easier playing experience for new gamers.<br />
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<b> </b><img alt="Image from The Deep Cave" height="358" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585506F7_World/screen2.jpg" width="640" /><b> </b><br />
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<b>V. Wrap-Up</b><br />
<br />
Overall the Xbox Indie platformer The Deep Cave is a great buy, especially for veteran platformer fans that are looking for an extremely challenging title. This game is one of the most difficult games to master, but if a player should master it completely, they will be able to defeat most platformers without any problems, especially when it comes to timing perfect jumps.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/WOVhgg28fpM?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
For more information on The Deep Cave and the developer visit <a href="http://pennybridgeindiegamestudio.blogspot.com/p/deep-cave.html">Penny Bridge Studios' website</a>.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/The-Deep-Cave/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585506f7?cid=search&purchase=1&DownloadType=GameDemo"><img alt="The Deep Cave" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585506F7_World/webboxart.jpg" title="The Deep Cave" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Click to download the Free Demo!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/jijaweb"><img alt="http://www.biocrowd.com/client/biocrowd/images/twitter-logo.png" src="http://www.biocrowd.com/client/biocrowd/images/twitter-logo.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Follow the developer on Twitter</div><br />
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That concludes The XBL Indieverse's Review of "The Deep Cave", a unique and very original platformer/puzzler hybrid that combines many different elements together to bring a very challenging yet enjoyable Xbox Indie gaming experience. I would recommend this title to all gamers who love classic platformers that are notoriously difficult, and beating this game is truly an achievement.<br />
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Thank you for joining us, and be sure to stay tuned for more articles like Reviews, Interviews, New Releases and more more!<br />
<br />
--Deeke777<br />
The XBL Indieverse <br />
Deeke@XboxLive<br />
<a href="mailto:dek777@gmail.com"></a><a href="mailto:dek777@gmail.com">dek777@gmail.com</a><br />
[Mħ±Î©Ø®è]Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-71635576233365216822011-03-04T05:36:00.000-08:002011-03-04T05:37:00.458-08:00New Releases: Feb 25 - Mar 4<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9ay3pxD8iLk/TWz7iYnTU1I/AAAAAAAAByg/ci-58iOmt9I/s400/%255Bnew%255D+XBL+Indieverse+New+Releases+Banner.jpg" width="400" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Our second installment of the New Releases article includes a few very fantastic Xbox Live Indie titles that were releases from late February to early March. The games that are included in this article are listed in chronological order in terms of release date--earliest to latest.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>New Releases</b> <sup><sub>Feb 25th - Mar 4th</sub></sup></div><hr /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>During this single week there have been some amazing additions to the Xbox Indies marketplace, namely in the RPG category. With two awesome RPG releases--<b>Wizard's Keep</b> and <b>Hearts of Men</b>--as well as a fun zombie shooter addition, and a nice retro-style 3D puzzler this single week has proven to be quite bountiful.<br />
<ul><li><b>Wizard's Keep</b> <sup><sub>Feb 25</sub></sup></li>
</ul><ul><li><b>ZombieGeddon</b> <sup><sub>Feb 27</sub></sup></li>
</ul><ul><li><b>GyroBall</b><sup><sub> Mar 1</sub></sup></li>
</ul><ul><li><b>The Hearts of Me</b>n<sup><sub> Mar 4</sub></sup></li>
</ul><b></b>Each section will have a synopsis of the game, pictures, links, and a video showing the game in action--if applicable. The articles will function as a mini-review of sorts, a bit like an impression of the titles overall design and game mechanics.<br />
<br />
<u><b>Wizard's Keep</b></u> <sup><sub>80 MSP</sub></sup><br />
This expansive and incredibly fun Xbox Indie RPG was developed by Robir, the creator of the successful Xbox Indie hit <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Miner-Dig-Deep/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d80258550182?cid=search">Miner Dig Deep</a>. There are concepts that we can see reflected from his other title that are apparent in this Indie as well, especially with the overall design and custom-drawn content.<br />
<img alt="Wizard's Keep" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507D4_World/webboxart.jpg" title="Wizard's Keep" /><br />
<b>XBLIV Ratin</b>g - <img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-E8mbPu6zhgg/TXDgfKWf1ZI/AAAAAAAABzY/BQdDsZAaEg8/s1600/5stars.jpg" /> <br />
<b>Xbox Marketplace URL</b> - <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Wizards-Keep/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585507d4">Wizard's Keep</a><br />
<b>Developer</b> - Robir <br />
<b>Genre</b> - Role Playing<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><br />
This game is an amazing RPG addition to the XBLIG Marketplace, and for a game that costs only 80 MSP, it provides hours upon hours of play-time. Find custom weapons/armor, build your character with unique skills, assign attribute points and complete various main/side quests in this must-have roguelike/action RPG that combines many aspects of game favorites together in one enjoyable package.<br />
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Highly recommended for all fans of <i>Bonded Realities</i>, <i>Epic Dungeon</i>, <i>Dungeon Adventure</i> and <i>The Endless Abyss</i> Xbox Indies.<br />
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<sup><sub><br />
</sub></sup><u><b>ZombieGeddon</b></u> <sup><sub>80 MSP</sub></sup><br />
Although there are more than enough zombie-themed Xbox Indies out there, ZombieGeddon is one of the better twin-stick top-down shooters. With nice graphics, fluid gameplay, and hours of zombie-slaying action, ZombieGeddon is a great title for all twin-stick undead-shooter fans out there. <br />
<img alt="ZombieGeddon" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507D8_World/webboxart.jpg" title="ZombieGeddon" /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><b>XBLIV Rating</b> - <img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-l5vP5zZRYaM/TXDge9xpGfI/AAAAAAAABzU/pSf8PXVLKQU/s1600/4stars.jpg" /><br />
<b>Xbox Marketplace URL</b> - <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/ZombieGeddon/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585507d8">ZombieGeddon</a><br />
<b>Developer</b> - Fun Factory Entertainment<br />
<b>Genre</b> - Action & Adventure<br />
<br />
Being a gamer who doesn't avidly play twin-stick zombie shooters, I'm quite impressed with ZombieGeddon's overall gameplay. It provides hours of entertainment that not only focuses on surviving but is action-packed to the brim.<br />
<br />
Strategically fight your way through hordes of undead monsters that get progressively harder as players move on, wield an impressive arsenal of weaponry, and play with up to four players in local co-op mode to maximize the zombie onslaught action.<sup><sub><br />
</sub></sup><b> </b><br />
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<u><b>Gyroball</b></u> <sup><sub>80 MSP</sub></sup><br />
This Xbox Indie action puzzler brings gamers back to the classic retro 2D graphics that we've all grown up with while also introducing three-dimensional concepts that set it apart from older titles. Gyroball is a fresh and very creative game that focuses on reaction timing as strategy to provide gamers with a fun and original title that can be replayed over and over.<br />
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<img alt="Gyroball" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507DA_World/webboxart.jpg" title="Gyroball" /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><b>XBLIV Rating -</b> <img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-l5vP5zZRYaM/TXDge9xpGfI/AAAAAAAABzU/pSf8PXVLKQU/s1600/4stars.jpg" /><br />
<b>Xbox Marketplace URL -</b> <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Gyroball/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585507da">Gyroball</a><br />
<b>Developer - </b>Eccentric Duck<br />
<b>Genre - </b>Racing & Flying<br />
<br />
Gyroball is a very unique Indie that has fun visuals that appear to be linear vectors that form three-dimensional paths for gamers to follow. At heart, the title is a racing game that incorporates puzzler concepts in that gamers must think on their feet and make strategic decisions in order to complete certain stages. The game is a fun-filled Indie that brings gamers back to the classic days of gaming through it's unique dynamics and provides an experience that is hard to find in most Xbox Indies.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/3O92X55OJdA?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
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<u><b>The Hearts of Men</b></u> <sup><sub>80 MSP</sub></sup><br />
This top-down adventure title has been in development by Coltran Studios for months, and watching the title flourish from an idea and concept art to a full-fledged Xbox Indie is quite an experience. This game is a four-player local co-op title similar to games like Gauntlet, as each player can pick their own character that has unique abilities.<br />
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<img alt="The Hearts of Men" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507E1_World/webboxart.jpg" title="The Hearts of Men" /><br />
XBLIV Rating - <img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-l5vP5zZRYaM/TXDge9xpGfI/AAAAAAAABzU/pSf8PXVLKQU/s1600/4stars.jpg" /><br />
Xbox Marketplace URL - <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/The-Hearts-of-Men/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585507e1">The Hearts of Men</a><br />
Developer - misterjz (<a href="http://coltranstudios.com/">Coltran Studios</a>)<br />
Genre - Classics<br />
<br />
Utilizing fantastic comic-style artwork and great visuals, The Hearts of Men offers a unique Indie experience that isn't offered in most games. As far as game mechanics go, players must cross dangerous dungeon stages and collect items such as potions and keys to unlock doors, all the while slaying enemies. Games can choose from four characters--the Warrior, Elf, Warlock and Viking, each of which has their own unique normal and special attacks. This game is a great buy for all adventure fans everywhere.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/pbtuiZPnoEI?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
<br />
That wraps up our second iteration of The XBL Indieverse's New Releases article. For more information on these titles, be sure to visit the Xbox Live Marketplace URL's associated with each. I'm planning on releasing a Review for Wizard's Keep, Hearts of Men, and Gyroball so be sure to stay tuned!<br />
<br />
--Deeke777 @ The XBL Indieverse<br />
<a href="mailto:xboxindieverse@gmail.com">The XBL Indieverse</a>Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-34253130743029974382011-02-27T17:49:00.000-08:002011-03-01T06:18:51.541-08:00Review: All Out of Bubblegum<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-OuEdnHA0PqM/TWz_iW7mn9I/AAAAAAAABys/uiM-br5wTD0/s400/%255Bnew%255D+XBL+Indieverse+Review+Banner.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
Welcome to The XBL Indieverse's Review of the zombie twin-stick shooter <b>All Out of Bubblegum</b>. The game name is derived from the classic phrase from Duke Nukem himself: <i> </i><br />
<blockquote><i>"I'm here to kick ass and chew bubblegum, and I'm all out of gum." </i></blockquote>This game may seem like a clone of other zombie XBLIG's at first glance, but rest assured it has it's unique elements--four player co-op, for example, or an amazing assortment of weaponry, and even the ability to strategically build your own protective structures which brings RTS to the game's mechanics.<br />
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<b>All Out of Bubblegum</b> <sup>80 MSP</sup><br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><hr align="center" size="2" width="100%" /><div style="text-align: left;"> <img alt="All Out of Bubblegum!" class="boxart" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507A0_World/xboxboxart.jpg" title="All Out of Bubblegum!" /> <br />
<ul type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal"> <b>Rating</b> – <img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CuAUBmENzxI/TVzI1aqGtII/AAAAAAAABOE/IWq-kVQIYhY/s1600/3stars.jpg" /></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Developer</b> – Dennis McWilliams</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Genre</b> – Shooter</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>XBL Marketplace URL</b> – <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/All-Out-of-Bubblegum/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585507a0?cid=search">All Out of Bubblegum</a></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Release Date</b> –2/1/2011</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Try or Buy?</b> – <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Incident-of-Dreamy-Vale-Church/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d8025855079e?cid=search&purchase=1&DownloadType=GameDemo">Try</a> Before you Buy</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Price </b>– 80 MSP</li>
</ul><i>"Fortify your defenses and take up arms against the zombie horde. Up to 4 players can build structures, place turrets, choose from an assortment of weapons, and then watch the giblets fly.</i>"<br />
--Xbox Live Marketplace Description<br />
<b>I. Story Line</b><br />
<br />
This particular XBLIG zombie shooter doesn't really have much of a story-line and has no introduction or scenes during gameplay. It's more focused on survival and killing zombies rather than a linear plot. The characters are standard and are differentiated simply by color and have no real persona or characteristics.<br />
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The game pits players in what appears to be an suburban neighborhood that's been overrun by zombies, and it is up to our heroes to save the world from the marauding undead; using fun and expansive weaponry players can either save the suburbs from the flesh-eating zombies or die trying in this action-packed Indie gorefest.<br />
<br />
<b>II. Game Mechanics</b><br />
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This XBLIG title utilizes twin-stick mechanics for movement and shooting which makes it much like other zombie shooters such as "Zombie Concentration" and "Zombie Estate" in terms of functionality.<br />
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Also, much like those other games, the zombies body parts can be shot off and it takes a few shots to kill the zombies completely. This dynamic adds more challenge to gameplay by making players continually target enemies since one shot (or even three) doesn't stop these brain-eaters.<br />
<br />
All Out of Bubblegum puts emphasis on both reaction skills and strategy, as when the waves of zombies and undead get overwhelming it is essential to have a good strategy to evade their attacks. Enemies come in waves, and once all enemies are destroyed in a certain wave players get the chance to buy items and to build structures.<br />
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<b> </b><img alt="Image from All Out of Bubblegum!" height="358" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507A0_World/screen4.jpg" width="640" /><br />
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The structure mechanic is a very awesome and unique feature that isn't found in most zombie shooters, twin-stick or otherwise. This rare feature gives gamers the chance to add fortifications to the open killing grounds and can provide sanctuary from the onslaught of undead. Players are limited to the amount of blocks they can build per round, and players are also timed while building.<br />
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As far as overall gameplay goes, this shooter is set up with health that is represented numerically instead of a bar or meter, and there is a limited number of lives in a pool. When playing co-op, each player has their own respective health and lives--the lives aren't shared but are individual.<br />
<br />
After each round players earn an amount of cash that is dependent upon your score--how well you did, how many times you died, etc. This cash is used to buy items at the beginning of each new round. Dying can also subtract from your score and losing all lives means Game Over.<br />
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<img alt="Image from All Out of Bubblegum!" height="359" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507A0_World/screen1.jpg" style="margin-top: -80px;" width="640" /><br />
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<b>III. Weapons/Items</b><br />
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Possibly the best part of the entire game is the weapons that are used to expel the evil zombie minions. Since ammo is unlimited and rates of fire are different for each weapon (each shot has a short cool-down depending on what kind of weapon) the weapons themselves are extremely gratifying to use.<br />
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These weapons can range from the lame (but effective) pistol, which is the starting weapon, all the way up to a motor-bike with chainsaws on the sides (yes, it's a real weapon and it's <i>pink</i>).<br />
<br />
There are also RPG's that launch slow but devastating missiles, Assault Rifles that have high rates of fire, a Shotgun that has a spray radius, Plasma weaponry which just annihilates everything, a Flamethrower that ignites nearby enemies...yet the best weapon of all is the Chainsaw Bike because it is the most fun to use.<br />
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On this pink zombie-annihilator players can have a lot of fun because the bike itself is very fast and maneuverable as well as extremely deadly--players only have to sideswipe enemies to cut their limbs off, etc.<br />
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After each round players are able to buy these weapons as well as precious health packs that are extremely useful especially on the later stages. Gamers can actually expect to complete some waves with as little as 10 health then buy a health pack to restore it back to 100%.<br />
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<b> </b><img alt="Image from All Out of Bubblegum!" height="359" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507A0_World/screen3.jpg" width="640" /><br />
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<b>IV. Unique Features</b><br />
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This particular zombie shooter is unique for many reasons, one of them being the twin-stick controls. There are quite a few twin-stick Indies out there, and they all use similar mechanics--one analog stick controls direction of shots, and the other controls movement. All Out of Bubblegum's twin-stick mechanic operate much in this way, and the shots are very fluid and exact--overall it's a very well designed control system.<br />
<br />
The weapons are another unique feature of this fun, action-packed twin-stick Indie. There are many different types of weapons, each with their own function and ability, and players can amass a nice armory of weapons unless they die--upon death the most powerful weapon is taken out of the player's armaments. These weapons provide players with a fun shoot-em-up experience, especially when using the more powerful weapons like RPG's and Plasma Rifles.<br />
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This particular Xbox Indie can be up to four players co-op, and with this many players the game itself unlocks its full potential for enjoyment. When having even another player to help you out this game is less challenging, but with four players its an all out kill-fest. This game is only local multiplayer, however, but it is perfect for gamers who are used to playing with friends.<br />
<br />
<b> </b><img alt="Image from All Out of Bubblegum!" height="359" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507A0_World/screen2.jpg" width="640" /><br />
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<b>V. Critique</b><br />
<br />
<i>The Good</i><br />
<br />
<i>It's Great Fun! </i>All Out of Bubblegum is a fantastic four-player twin-stick zombie shooter that provides hours of entertainment that progressively difficult--that is as players get farther in the game, it gets harder and harder. Either with four-players or playing solo, this Xbox Indie provides challenging gameplay as well as the chance to hunt zombies with powerful weaponry.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<i>Four Player Co-Op.</i><b> </b>There are many Xbox Indies that offer four-player local co-op, but there are few that are like this particular game in that four players work together to destroy the oncoming zombie onslaught. Also with four players, the structures that are built can become quite expansive, this offering safe refuge for players with low health.<b></b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<i>Enhanced Weaponry. </i>Few zombie shooters offer the expansive choices of weapons that All Out of Bubblegum offers--there are so many choices, and each weapon will stay with the player until they die. Amassing a collection of powerful weapons can be the difference between life and death in this game, and in four-player co-op, having a whole team of players wielding Plasma Rifles or Chainsaw Bikes is amazingly fun.<i> </i><br />
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<i>The Bad</i><br />
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<i>Graphics.</i><b> </b>Although I'm the kind of gamer that doesn't focus on graphics, every gamer is different. The graphics for All Out of Bubblegum aren't the greatest, even though everything is in 3D, there are some moments where things are too dark and where enemies are a bit blocky. This may turn off some players that instantly look at it and judge it for how the game appears at first glance.<br />
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</b><br />
<i>It's Challenging.</i><b> </b>A good challenge isn't so hard to find in twin-stick shooters; alot of the time they're quite difficult, especially on singleplayer. This is especially true for this game; novice players might find it to be quite complex and difficult and may be put off by the level of skill it takes to play these sorts of games.<b><br />
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<b>VI. Wrap-Up</b><br />
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As you can see, there are many unique features and positive aspects about this twin-stick zombie shooter that set it apart from other similar titles in the Xbox Live Indie Games marketplace. At only 80 MSP, this game is reccommended for all those that enjoy the types of games that are like DDI's "Zombie Concentration" and James Silva's "I Maed A Game w/ Zombies In It".<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/ON94e7nTnk0?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><b><br />
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</span> </div>Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-26150851999240969952011-02-19T14:11:00.000-08:002011-03-01T07:01:40.562-08:00Review: The Incident of Dreamy Vale Church<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5CLENsgiHyg/TW0Aeqq_9yI/AAAAAAAAByw/7lRkh1Rcxc8/s400/%255Bnew%255D+XBL+Indieverse+Review+Banner.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
In this chapter of The XBL Indieverse XBLIG Reviews we'll be taking a look at a fighting game called <b>The Incident of Dreamy Vale Church</b>. This Indie Game is in full 3D and features two English police officer heroines as they battle the walking undead at--you guessed it--Dreamy Vale Church.<br />
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As fighters on the Xbox Indie Marketplace are somewhat rare, this is a refreshing addition to the communities ever-expanding library of content.<br />
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<b>The Incident of Dreamy Vale Church</b> <sup><sub>80 MSP</sub></sup><br />
<hr /><img alt="Incident of Dreamy Vale Church" class="boxart" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/5855079E_World/xboxboxart.jpg" title="Incident of Dreamy Vale Church" /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><ul><li><b>Rating</b> – <img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CuAUBmENzxI/TVzI1aqGtII/AAAAAAAABOE/IWq-kVQIYhY/s1600/3stars.jpg" /></li>
<li><b>Developer</b> – Darth Cheesiest</li>
<li><b>Genre</b> – Fighting</li>
<li><b>XBL Marketplace URL</b> – <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Incident-of-Dreamy-Vale-Church/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d8025855079e?cid=search">The Incident of Dreamy Vale Church</a></li>
<li><b>Release Date</b> – 1/30/2011</li>
<li><b>Try or Buy?</b> – <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Incident-of-Dreamy-Vale-Church/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d8025855079e?cid=search&purchase=1&DownloadType=GameDemo">Try</a> Before you Buy</li>
<li><b>Price </b>– 80 MSP</li>
</ul><i>"Fight your way through hoards of un-dead skeletons all set on not letting you leave. - - - - 1 or 2 player sideways scrolling beat’em up adventure with four levels and many combos! - - - - Features a comic book style storyboard, you can also listen to the game’s music in options and look at development shots in the Gallery.</i>"<br />
--Xbox Live Marketplace Description<br />
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<b>I. Story Line</b><br />
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This particularly fun fighting Indie has a rather strange storyline--apparently there are undead walking the earth in Dreamy Vale, a small town in what appears to be England. The church seems to be the source of this curse, and our two heroines Laura and Anna are called to investigate.<br />
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Little do they know that they are about to walk into a nightmarish reality that they'll have to fight to the death to escape. The story line is progressive and is in comic-book format; after each level there is a small excerpt with pictures, and eventually the story gets more dynamic as players get farther.<br />
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<b>II. Game Mechanics</b><br />
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"Dreamy Vale" is an enjoyable experience for gamers of all types and ages; whether you're a casual or serious gamer, you can have fun playing this Indie fighter. This game isn't your standard versus PvP fighter, but it is a cooperative one player or two player beat-em-up adventure. The gameplay reminds this reviewer of the Tekken Force modes in the notorious fighting series in both fighting scheme, controls, and overall game dynamics.<br />
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This unique XBLIG also utilizes a myriad of particularly useful combos and attacks, all of which can be used strategically to smash through the skeleton and zombie onslaught. The special maneuvers are also balanced as each time a player uses one of these powerful abilities their health is subsequently drained, giving players an incentive to use the power wisely.<br />
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Usually fighting games pit two players against one another, however this game offers the chance for two players to work cooperatively and the game itself is best enjoyed with two players. It's much easier when you have a teammate to rely on, especially in the later stages where enemies are overwhelming in skill and in number.<b> </b><br />
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<b>III. Weapons/Items</b><br />
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There aren't any real conventional weapons to be picked up in this game, however Anna Noble and her partner, Laura, both utilize their night-sticks to effectively kill the invading undead armies. As far as items go, there are power-ups, health items such as apples and food, and even poisonous mushrooms that completely invert the directional pad as well as poison mushrooms that can harm the player--or even kill them if they have low health.<br />
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<b>IV. Unique Features</b><br />
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"Dreamy Vale" makes good use of incredible 3D graphics, especially for a XBL Indie Game. The fighting is fluid and flawless, and it can be very fast-paced at times. I'm honestly pleasantly surprised with the overall fighting experience that this game brings, especially with the strategy that's involved with taking down hordes of enemies. The game itself also allows players to move in all directions instead of being limited to just on horizontal path as you are in most versus fighter games.<br />
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The sound effects and music tracks are another great feature of this XBLIG fighter. Usually, reviewers of the community don't see many fighting games with such expansive soundtracks, and each track can even be previewed at the title menu. The sound effects are quite fitting and are executed very well; every punch and kill makes you feel like you're really there. The visual effects are also quite good, and the lighting is wonderful in this full 3D graphic side-scroller fighting game.<br />
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This Xbox Indie also has an expanded list of moves for each character that are not as complex as players might expect. These combos are mainly button presses that can be differentiated in a few ways but overall they're mostly the same--two-hit combos, three-hits, and so on. The more variety that players user in their combos gives them a better chance to see what works, and saving the power skills for when they're really needed is essential.<br />
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This XBL Indie fighter also offers near-infinite replay-ability: although the story itself doesn't change, each battle can have different circumstances each time, depending on both the player's and enemy's performances in battle. Each new playthrough is a chance to do things differently and adapt to learn new strategies to defeat enemy skeletons and undead.<br />
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<b>V. Critique</b><i> </i><br />
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<i>The Good</i><br />
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<i>The Graphics. </i>Dreamy Vale has all 3D visuals and environments, and even the comic squares themselves are rendered as well. The meshes are superfluous and the lighting and textures are amazing for a XBLIG--quite possibly the best graphics I've seen in a Xbox Indie fighting game.<br />
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<i>It's Fun!</i> Play this game with a teammate to maximize your potential or play alone and test your survival fighting techniques in this adventure-like side-scrolling brawler. This Indie can be enjoyed by gamers of all ages of all types--it's a great way to get prepared for other games as "Dreamy Vale" requires gamers to have a good sense of hand-eye coordination and quick reflexes and reactions.<br />
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<i>It's Unique.</i> The unique concepts such as the original story line or the gameplay elements make Dreamy Vale the successful and gratifying playing experience that it is. As zombies and the undead are prevalent themes and motifs that are seen throughout the community's content library, this game offers an exclusive take on the whole zombie cult-genre.<i> </i><br />
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<i>The Bad</i><i> </i><br />
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<i>Solo-play is Too Hard.</i><b> </b>This title puts great emphasis on the team dynamic and it is highly recommended that gamers keep that in mind before purchasing this title. Don't expect to be able to beat the game on your first five tries, at least, although all gamers are different in terms of skill. Solo-play is much more challenging and difficult, yet it's not impossible to beat.<br />
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<i>No Targeting System. </i>The way players target enemies to attack is to simply face them--this can get rather troublesome when players are getting swarmed from all angles. There's no real specific way to easily switch targets in this game--gamers are required to pay close attention and react quickly or suffer the consequences.<br />
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<i>No Blocking.</i> Most fighting games, regardless if it's a side-scroller versus type game or a cooperative one like "Dreamy Vale", usually have a means of blocking or guarding to raise defense and reduce damage. This is usually represented by a stance that makes the player immobile but also considerably lowers the attack damage that is received during battle. Since "Dreamy Vale" doesn't have this feature, gameplay can get rather hectic and overwhelming pretty early on.<br />
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<b>VI. Wrap-Up</b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As you can see, "The Incident of Dreamy Vale Church" is an excellent XBLIG for many reasons; whether its the near infinite replayability in solo or two-player co-op, or the beautiful scenery and full 3D renders, this side-scrolling beat-em-up fighter/adventure game has something for every gamer<b> </b>out there. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Even though the game is a mere 80 MSP, it's still best to prepare for challenging (and fun) gameplay as well as to have another player to assist in co-op mode.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/RLSYDVKLmpM?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">For more information on this XBLIG or to contact the developer of Dreamy Vale Church, visit:</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Incident of Dreamy Vale Church" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/5855079E_World/webboxart.jpg" title="Incident of Dreamy Vale Church" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Incident-of-Dreamy-Vale-Church/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d8025855079e?cid=search&purchase=1&DownloadType=GameDemo">Try the Free Demo!</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="http://www.studiocenter.com/files/Images/social-icons/youtube_logo.png" src="http://www.studiocenter.com/files/Images/social-icons/youtube_logo.png" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/CompanyOneZeroNine">CompanyOneZeroNine's YouTube Channel</a><b></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;">--Deeke777 at The XBL Indieverse</div><div style="text-align: left;"> dek777@gmail.com</div><div style="text-align: left;"> [Mħ±Î©Ø®è]</div>Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-37711401040780927802011-02-19T00:44:00.000-08:002011-03-01T07:03:54.616-08:00Review: Super Tank Run<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nrknChLWtro/TW0Kmzei6VI/AAAAAAAABy0/Vz2Klq8cV8Q/s400/%255Bnew%255D+XBL+Indieverse+Review+Banner.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
In this installment of XBL Indieverse Reviews I'll be focusing on the surprisingly addictive XBLIG "Super Tank Run" by canstraferight. The review will be in the standard format; five sections with an introduction and wrap-up at the end with videos and links.<br />
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<b>Super Tank Run</b><sup><sub> 80 MSP</sub></sup><br />
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<img alt="Super Tank Run" class="boxart" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507B5_World/xboxboxart.jpg" title="Super Tank Run" /><b> </b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><ul><li><b>Rating</b> – <img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IKrIZZgkBxQ/TVzIEw7BYpI/AAAAAAAABOc/jPxHf2h4IjE/s1600/2stars.jpg" /></li>
<li><b>Developer</b> – Cant Strafe Right Studios</li>
<li><b>Genre</b> – Action & Adventure</li>
<li><b>XBL Marketplace URL</b> – <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Super-Tank-Run/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585507b5?cid=search">Super Tank Run</a></li>
<li><b>Release Date</b> – 2/8/2011</li>
<li><b>Try or Buy?</b> – <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Super-Tank-Run/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585507b5?cid=search&purchase=1&DownloadType=GameDemo">Try</a> Before you Buy</li>
<li><b>Price </b>– 80 MSP</li>
</ul><br />
<i>"Trapped deep in an enemy city, separated from your platoon and the only way out is the heavily defended highway. You know you wont make it, but you must try."</i><br />
--Xbox Live Marketplace Description <i><br />
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<b>I. Story Line</b><br />
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This game is more like an arcade game than anything, so it doesn't have much of a story other than what's included with the description on the XBL Marketplace. Basically, players take control of a tank in what appears to be World War II, and uses it an a variety of game modes and play types. Overall the lacking story is something that bothers me, yet it is fitting in a game like this--not much story is needed to have fun.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b><img alt="Image from Super Tank Run" height="223" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507B5_World/screen2.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
<b>II. Game Mechanics</b><br />
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Super Tank Run uses mechanics similar to side-scrolling runner games, most like old, low-res racing games. The game itself allows players to enjoy a multitude of modes such as Turret Toss, Defensive or Offensive which adds a new experience with each try.<br />
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The multiple game types that can be found in Super Tank Run are listed below:<br />
<ul><li> <b>Defensive -</b> Evade the blockades to get as far as you can and reach high speeds. 3 Tries.</li>
<li><b>60 Second Run -</b> Collect as many speed tokens as you can and evade blockades for 60 seconds, and blockades count against your score but don't destroy the tank. 1 Try.</li>
<li><b>Offensive -</b> Fire missiles and destroy enemy tanks and evade blockades to earn points--crashes into both result in death. 3 tries.</li>
<li><b>Turret Toss - </b>Gain speed tokens and evade blockades--crashes result in death--to gain speed. Object of the game is to "launch" the tank's turret into the air and make it go as far as possible. This fun mini-game is the most addicting of all gametypes. 3 tries.</li>
</ul>Super Tank Run also supports Local Versus modes for up to 8 players in "Defensive", "60 Second Run", and "Offensive" gametypes so that others can trade off with the same controller. Quite useful at gatherings and can even be played by children.<br />
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This game makes use of reaction timing and hand-eye coordination and is even enjoyable for gamers of all ages and tastes.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b><img alt="Image from Super Tank Run" height="223" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507B5_World/screen1.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
<b>III. Weapons/Items</b><br />
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This Indie Game is more like an arcade-style racing-esque game that has many mini-modes to allow for expansive gameplay for individuals or groups of gamers. There are no conventional items other than the speed tokens that are picked up throughout--these allow the tank itself to gain more and more speed and also give points.<br />
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Weapons in this game depend on the gametype--there aren't any conventional weapons in the normal game modes, however in the "Offensive" gametype players are able to shoot down other tanks with missile attacks by pressing (A).<br />
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Although the game is lacking in weapons and items--there could easily be other power-ups and other items included that enhance the game in many ways--it is true to the runner-type genre in that it provides the standard experience of dodging and evading certain objects while maintaining high speeds. <br />
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<b>IV. Unique Features</b><br />
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Super Tank Run's unique features include the many game modes that offer a different experience every time, a progressive global Hi-Scores list that's updated daily, and multiplayer modes that offer a chance for friends and groups of gamers to enjoy competing against one another.<br />
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Turret Toss in itself is a unique gametype, as the concept is a bit hilarious and enjoyable. This mode of play is the most addicting in my opinion, as I'm always trying to use different combinations of angle height, speed, and evasion tactics to improve my score.<br />
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As this XBL Indie doesn't have gore, violence, or adult themes, it is quite suitable for younger gamers. It gives players the feel of a classic old-school retro side-scrolling racer while delivering randomized tracks and a different experience every time.<br />
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The soundtrack to this Indie is another unique feature, as it is quite good especially for gamers who are also fans of metal. There are different tracks for the different levels and game modes, and overall the songs themselves may seem out of place in this game but are a welcome addition to an Indie title.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Image from Super Tank Run" height="224" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507B5_World/screen3.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
<b>V. Critique</b><i> </i><br />
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<i>The Good</i><br />
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<i>It's Different.</i> Compared to most of the games on the XBLIG Market, Super Tank Run is a different type of game that offers for a slice of gaming that only used to be found in coin-op game arcades. It's pleasant variety in modes of play, style, and game mechanics makes for a fun playing experience with each run.<br />
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<i>Anyone Can Play. </i>There are many XBLIG's that offer the ability for all gamers to enjoy the game itself, and this is one of them. You don't have to be a pro at headshots or an experienced level 99 wizard to have fun and to be good in this game--young children or old grandparents can have a fun time in this classic runner.<br />
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<i>It's Addictive. </i>Many games like Super Tank Run are quite monotonous and boring, but this particular game offers a different track with every run which affords gamers the chance to do things better (or worse). I find myself always wanting to better my score, and since some game types offer multiple tries, it can be somewhat of a compulsion to try to do your best.<br />
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<i>The Bad</i><br />
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<i>Graphics. </i>While I find them to be personally pleasing and enjoyable, many gamers have come to expect a standard from all games, not just XBLIG's. Since this game has low-res and blocky images, most gamers would look past it just for this reason.<br />
<i> </i><br />
<i>No Story.</i> The game itself is devoid of any sort of real story. It's more of a standard racing game with no definable plot-line or story. I myself have come to enjoy games with any sort of story, especially if it's extended and expansive--which is why RPG's are most rewarding to me.<br />
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<i>Too Simple.</i> Super Tank Run, even though it has multiple gametypes, is quite simplistic in it's gameplay and doesn't offer players much chances to think and apply knowledge. It is a standard reaction-based game that relies not on planning and strategy but quick reflexes and keen hand-eye coordination.<br />
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<b>VI. Wrap-Up</b><br />
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Overall, Super Tank Run can be very enjoyable to many gamers--whether they are amateur, casual, or pro gamers. I myself did enjoy the game but found it rather lacking in many areas, but for an XBLIG it's a welcome addition to the marketplace. The game has many strong points and weak points, and offers an enjoyable, ever-changing experience that can be equated with many side-scrolling games of it's type.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://0.gvt0.com/vi/_8BaMIGrV7g/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/_8BaMIGrV7g&fs=1&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/_8BaMIGrV7g&fs=1&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">For more information on Super Tank Run, visit these helpful links:<br />
<br />
<img alt="Super Tank Run" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507B5_World/webboxart.jpg" title="Super Tank Run" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Trial-Game-Super-Tank-Run/00000000-0000-4000-8000-0000585507b5?cid=search">Try the Free Demo</a> </div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="http://www.biocrowd.com/client/biocrowd/images/twitter-logo.png" src="http://www.biocrowd.com/client/biocrowd/images/twitter-logo.png" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/CSR_Studios">Follow Cant Strafe Right on Twitter</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">Remember to "try before you buy" to avoid any frustration or regret that can be associated in purchasing something you don't enjoy. Since Xbox Live's content is non-refundable, it's a good idea to play the trial a few times just to make sure you'll enjoy it.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Stay tuned to The XBL Indieverse for more XBLIG Reviews, Previews, and more!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">--Deeke777 at The XBL Indieverse</div><div style="text-align: left;"> Mr. Deeke at VVGtv.com</div><div style="text-align: left;"> Derek S. at Game Interface.net</div><div style="text-align: left;"> dek777@gmail.com</div><div style="text-align: left;"> [Mħ±Î©Ø®è]</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div>Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-31595469039814404632011-02-16T19:15:00.000-08:002011-03-01T07:05:52.667-08:00Preview: Sol Intelligence<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-CLL8eXQTDYU/TWz7i6yVm7I/AAAAAAAAByk/okl3tDVYQXA/s400/%255Bnew%255D+XBL+Indieverse+Preview+Banner.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
Welcome to the second installment of The XBL Indieverse's Previews! On this issue we'll be focusing on Rickettz Studios' upcoming XBLIG "Sol Intelligence". This game is a hybrid of technological proportions, and combines both action adventure and platformer into one unique package.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="86" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DbOSDPzgbGs/TWMbFgvQdyI/AAAAAAAABv4/gHI7NqhthqY/s320/Banner.jpg" width="320" /></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><b>Sol Intelligence</b><br />
<hr /><ul><li><b>Developer:</b> <a href="http://www.rickettzstudios.webs.com/">Rickettz Studio</a> </li>
<li><b>Game Site:</b> <a href="http://www.rickettzstudios.webs.com/solintelligence.html">Sol Intelligence</a></li>
<li><b>Sugg. Price:</b> 80 MSP <br />
</li>
<li><b>Platform:</b> Xbox 360 (Xbox Live Indie Game)<br />
</li>
<li><b>Release:</b> Coming Soon (<i>to be announced</i>)<br />
</li>
</ul>Sol Intelligence is an upcoming platform-style, sci-fi tech-themed Indie that puts emphasis on both strategy and skill. The story line is quite enigmatic and creates a sense of mystery for players--giving them the incentive to keep playing in order to learn more. Who is Sol? Why is he trapped in what seems to be a giant computer system? These questions and more are answered in this upcoming fantastically fun XBL Indie.<br />
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Ever wonder what it'd be like to actually go into a computer's microchips and motherboards? If you're a gamer and a computer lover then the answer is most likely yes. This game offers that unique chance at what an adventure into binary code might look like, and it simulates a rare artificial technological reality that allows players to be fully immersed into another world that's replete with enemies, items, and fantastic styles and designs.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sbpftw9hfYo/TWMbSi6Y38I/AAAAAAAABv8/Q9rqvl9lyQc/s400/ScreenShot001.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
Rickettz Studios tries it's take at a platformer hybrid with RPG and shooter elements in this highly addictive and enjoyable XBLIG title. Sol Intelligence allows players to take control of "Sol", who appears to be a sprite that has hidden potential. Fight past enemies and strategically navigate the labyrinthine mazes to collect key items and even unlock awardments in this entertaining upcoming Indie.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ChqWSZ3q8fo/TWMbdIhXvSI/AAAAAAAABwA/u1IZI-i7laU/s400/ScreenShot006.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This game uses vivid colors and keeps with the overall sci-fi technology theme throughout gameplay. As players progress farther through the game, it gets harder and harder--each stage becomes more challenging.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Gamers can make use of unique abilities and collect items to build up Sol, the main character, and improve his strength in battle.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RsY2faJYWGA/TWMbnR8IRJI/AAAAAAAABwE/7ShXO_rwFQg/s400/ScreenShot007.jpg" width="400" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Sol Intelligence also adds a bonus to it's replayability and overall entertainment by adding awardments to the game. These mini-achievements can range from easy to difficult and short to long--it can either be an easy awardment that is attained in a short period, or a difficult one that is attained throughout progressive gameplay.</div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2GiYeNR-9pQ/TWMb5vB_rwI/AAAAAAAABwI/dayCuIqtlW4/s400/ScreenShot008.jpg" width="400" /> </div><br />
With enjoyable atmospheres and ambient sounds, a unique cross of many genres, and an overall aesthetically pleasing gaming experience that gamers of all ages can enjoy, Sol Intelligence is a welcome addition to the XBLIG marketplace and any gamer's library. As Rickettz Studios' first platformer adventure game, this title is sure to please the gaming community as a whole.</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/RRpD37AA2XY?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/NQIxxiIwY5E?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For more information on Sol Intelligence and it's development team, Rickettz Studios, visit these links:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="http://www.coldplace.co.uk/images/webvlv/logo-youtube.gif" src="http://www.coldplace.co.uk/images/webvlv/logo-youtube.gif" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/AngelofOsmond">Angel of Osmond's YouTube Channel</a></div><ul></ul><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="http://www.salt.arizona.edu/images/facebook_logo_50.png" src="http://www.salt.arizona.edu/images/facebook_logo_50.png" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rickettz-Studios/119172598143568">Rickettz Studios Facebook Page</a></div><ul></ul><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="http://www.alliancedatacom.com/images/home-icon.gif" src="http://www.alliancedatacom.com/images/home-icon.gif" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.rickettzstudios.webs.com/">Rickettz Studios Homepage</a></div><ul></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>That wraps up our second XBL Indieverse Preview article focused on "Sol Intelligence". Keep an eye out for it on the XBL Indie Games Marketplace, and we'll be sure to update the page once the game is released. Stay tuned for more exclusive first looks at upcoming Xbox Live Indie Games.<br />
<br />
<br />
--Deeke777 at The XBL Indieverse<br />
dek777@gmail.com<br />
[Mħ±Î©Ø®è]Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-17136961525770760932011-02-11T05:49:00.000-08:002011-03-01T07:07:00.768-08:00Preview: Dead Shift<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-CLL8eXQTDYU/TWz7i6yVm7I/AAAAAAAAByk/okl3tDVYQXA/s400/%255Bnew%255D+XBL+Indieverse+Preview+Banner.jpg" width="400" /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;">In our first introductory installment of the Previews series, we'll be taking a look at a very exciting upcoming zombie apocalypse-themed XBLIG title called</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"><b>Dead Shift</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;">. Details on the story are scarce, however there has been a influx of picture and video content from the developer to give fans a better idea on how the game will function, how it will look, etc.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://www.gameassembly.com//images/stories/DEAD SHIFT_1297417640526.png" height="113" src="http://www.gameassembly.com//images/stories/DEAD%20SHIFT_1297417640526.png" width="374" /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<ul><li><b>Developer:</b> <a href="http://www.punklabs.com/">Punk Labs</a></li>
<li><b>Game Site:</b> <a href="http://www.deadshift.com/">Dead Shift.com</a></li>
<li><b>Sugg. Price:</b> 240 MSP (subject to change)</li>
<li><b>Platform:</b> PC / Xbox 360 (as a Xbox Live Indie Game)</li>
<li><b>Release:</b> TBA (to be announced)</li>
</ul><ul></ul><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;">Dead Shift is an upcoming zombie apocalypse XBLIG that will redefine both our expectations from 3D Indies and Zombie games. This incredible Indie will assuredly rule the market with it's beautific graphics and fluid gameplay--already fans are clamoring for more and it's only in it's development stages. </span><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;">With an incredible 2,749,733 Total Upload Views from DeadShift's YouTube Channel we can see that the game already has an enormous interest from gamers and users alike. This title is very highly anticipated and gamers from all over the globe are looking forward to slaughtering zombies in this awesome Indie.</span><br />
<div class="show_info outer-box-bg-as-border" style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><div class="profile-info-value" id="profile_show_total_video_views"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"><img alt="" class=" " height="281" src="http://deadshift.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/Zombie02-500x281.png" title="Dead Shift" width="500" /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"></span><br />
Think GTA crossed with a horror-survival game set in the arid west. This game is truly one of the best Indies I've ever come across and it's going to be big on the XBLIG Marketplace, namely the zombie genre. The undead in this game are frightening and true to the definition of a zombie that we're all familiar with--they're gorey, shambling, and very deadly.<br />
<div style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-BS_JKxJNo2E/TWsCbYiLLyI/AAAAAAAAByA/8vWzv97J30E/s640/226210685.png" width="640" /></div><br />
This particular zombie game takes us to the remote, vast expanses of a barren desert. The western motif is prevalent throughout--sand, packed-earth, tumbleweeds and cacti are seen all over--and this is one of the few games that focus on this particular genre of zombie survival within the secluded desert. This game truly fits with the whole idea of desolation and offers a sense of solitude--no one is coming to help you, and those that were around are now walking undead.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-363" height="225" src="http://deadshift.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/Dead-Shift-2010-07-24-13-03-18-44-500x281.png" title="Cactopia" width="400" /></div><br />
Dead Shift truly has amazing graphics--I can't stress how wonderful they are. You can see for yourself how awesome they are in the myriad of pictures on their site, and the mini-gallery I've included. These graphics always look smoother in-game when run on a computer, yet on X360 the games can vary with the video set-up, as some gamers still play on SD televisions.The environments. shading, textures, etc. are all very high quality for an Indie game, especially one on the XBLIG market.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LLy0f1cqo-I/TWsCmnkZVvI/AAAAAAAAByE/F4WalFsLd60/s1600/226229556.png" /></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>This game is nothing short of incredible when it comes to gameplay, as well--it's not just a pretty package. Our heroine, Miri, may look like she's under-equipped to deal with a zombie onslaught, but don't let her appearance fool you; she's quite the survivalist type. From the videos, we can see that it's possible to use nearly everything that the character can pick up as a weapon--bats spiked with nails, nail guns, shovels, etc.--not to mention the <i>ultimate</i> weapon; vehicles. That's right, you'll be able to mow down hordes of undead with a vehicle, and all cars are driveable.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" class="size-medium wp-image-552" height="196" src="http://deadshift.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/226351785-500x196.png" title="Fire!" width="500" /></div><br />
With fantastic skyboxes, interactive environments, and expanded graphics, we can expect an awe-inspiring visual masterpiece from Dead Shift that is as fun as it is to watch as it is to play. Hopefully Punk Labs will have the time and resources to finish the game within the season for a release possibly during Summer, and it'd be fantastic to hear about an episodic series centered around the Dead Shift universe.</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Video Gallery</span></div><div style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;">PolyVector, the developer at Punk Labs who's working on Dead Shift, has been courteous enough to the fan base to release a smorgasboard of media for our hungry eyes. More content can be found at the link to his YouTube Channel listed below.</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;">Below are two of the seven videos that are available on YouTube for viewing about Dead Shift. The first is the official teaser trailer released in early development stages, and the second features the first in a series of six videos that take a close look of Dead Shift's elements.</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/JH6dzhMXJWo?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>The teaser trailer for Dead Shift, found in the YouTube Channel--released by PolyVector of Punk Labs.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/Rmm1UFHL6IY?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"><i>The first video in a series of six showing off Dead Shift's multiple dynamics. Each video focuses on a different aspect of the game.</i></span></div><div><br />
</div><div>New updates and pictures are released regularly, so it's always a good idea to keep up-to-date on the information regarding Indie Games. Sometimes the game features are subject to change, and sometimes these changes are very big; they might even remake them game itself. We've compiled a comprehensive listing of link resources for our readers to keep informed on this fantastic Indie game. </div></div><div><br />
</div><div>For more information, updates, pictures and videos on Dead Shift, visit these links below:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"> </span><img alt="http://www.coldplace.co.uk/images/webvlv/logo-youtube.gif" src="http://www.coldplace.co.uk/images/webvlv/logo-youtube.gif" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/PolyVector">PolyVector's YouTube Channel</a> (Videos)</div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><img alt="http://www.castellinsurance.com/images/twitter_logo1.png" src="http://www.castellinsurance.com/images/twitter_logo1.png" /> </span> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;"><a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/PolyVector">PolyVector's Twitter Feed</a> (Game updates & More)</span></div><div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="http://www.kiwibeak.com/flyer/files/sethome.png" src="http://www.kiwibeak.com/flyer/files/sethome.png" /><br />
<a href="http://www.punklabs.com/">Punk Labs Home Site</a> (Info on Punk Labs)</div><div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://twitpic.com/show/thumb/3vpck4" title="at February 2, 2011" width="80" /><br />
<a href="http://www.deadshift.com/">Dead</a><a href="http://www.deadshift.com/">Shift Home Site</a> (Info on Dead Shift)</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div> That wraps up our first "Previews" article here on the XBL Indieverse. We're looking forward to this game and have been closely following it's development throughout the weeks, and have watched it grow from an idea into an entire world replete with amazing elements. </div><div><br />
</div><div>If you enjoy this game, be sure to support the development team by following them via Twitter and YouTube, and maybe leave a comment telling the dev what you think of their game on the homesite.</div><div><br />
</div><div>--Deeke777 at The XBL Indieverse</div><div> dek777@gmail.com</div><div> [Mħ±Î©Ø®è]<br />
<br />
</div>Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-57305912246687723512011-02-10T22:53:00.000-08:002011-03-01T07:08:30.737-08:00Interview: Red Crest Studios<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-3bE7GwooBik/TWz7h3O-ToI/AAAAAAAAByc/ZS_oqymTBCE/s400/%255Bnew%255D+XBL+Indieverse+Interview+Banner.jpg" width="400" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
Today the XBL Indieverse has had the pleasure to have a Q & A Interview with <b>Mike Ventnor</b> of Red Crest Studios, creator of the fantastic XBLIG RPG "Bonded Realities".<br />
<br />
The Indieverse has also reviewed "Bonded Realities", and a link to the Review can be found <a href="http://xbl-indieverse.blogspot.com/2011/02/xbl-indieverse-review-bonded-realities.html">here</a>.<br />
<br />
The Interview will consist of ten (10) questions altogether, and each of them ask a different regarding to both the game and Red Crest Studios, the development studio. Our guest's responses will be represented in i<i>talics</i> while the questions will be in <b>bold</b> script.<br />
<br />
All responses are taken verbatim and unedited to reflect the original tone, and the developer has answered each question in full--there have been no changes or deletions.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3tjdy94eJMk/TWZ_A4HHQBI/AAAAAAAABw4/gWUigjBKUWM/s1600/Bonded+Realities+Interview.jpg" /></div><br />
In the Interview...<br />
<i> </i><br />
<i>Italics - </i>Mike Ventnor, Red Crest Studios<br />
<b>Bold - </b>Deeke777, The XBL Indieverse <br />
<br />
<blockquote><b>#1. How did you first get the idea for "Bonded Realities"?</b> <br />
<br />
<i>I wanted to make an RPG because I thought it would be easy, as the<br />
mechanics were so well-defined. I was wrong, as it turns out, but what<br />
else would one expect from a game developer's ego. I also enjoyed RPGs<br />
a lot, and wanted to make one on a service that has a shortage of<br />
them</i>. <br />
<b></b></blockquote><blockquote><b>#2. Are there any specific RPGs that influenced the development of<br />
your game title?</b><br />
<br />
<i>All the RPGs I've played! But the ones I enjoyed the most were the<br />
ones that had a lot of humour in them, your Paper Marios and your<br />
Earthbounds etc. This applies to any genre, but I enjoy games a lot<br />
more when they tell jokes, and are full of humour especially in places<br />
where you don't expect to find it. I wanted to recreate that feeling<br />
since it's been getting harder and harder for me to find a game which<br />
treats humour on the same level.</i><br />
<br />
<b>#3. The storyline for this game is quite unique--are there any media<br />
sources that inspired you? Such as movies, books, tv shows, etc. If<br />
not, where did you get the idea for the story itself?</b><br />
<br />
<i>The stories I enjoy the most were ones that started out with humble<br />
beginnings, and the problems are gradually revealed to the player as<br />
the story unfolds. I found it awkward that a climax happens at the<br />
start, for example your village is destroyed by the enemy, and you<br />
must go out and beat that enemy but you don't even know why he is your<br />
enemy until much later.</i><br />
<i><br />
Secondly, by transporting the kids to another world, I can go crazy<br />
with character design and enemy design without having to explain it<br />
away. I want to be able to have the player enjoy the characters in<br />
game without worrying about their origins, since this storyline makes<br />
their origins irrelevant.</i><br />
<br />
</blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--pIlBw6KYMU/TWZ_SAyPc2I/AAAAAAAABw8/DclTX5Wp1J8/s1600/bonded+realities+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--pIlBw6KYMU/TWZ_SAyPc2I/AAAAAAAABw8/DclTX5Wp1J8/s400/bonded+realities+5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"></div><blockquote><b>#4 You've informed us at The Indieverse that all the game sprites are<br />
hand-drawn. Yikes, that's -alot- of work. How long did it take to draw<br />
and implement them into your RPG?</b><br />
<br />
<i>The key was to be smart with the assets! A lot of graphics in game are<br />
generated programatically, sometimes re-using a lot of textures but<br />
with a different colour palette. So while there was still a lot to<br />
draw, I managed to minimise the time needed to draw assets, which was<br />
good considering I'm not a good drawer! The sprites for people were<br />
the hardest to draw, but I became more efficient once I created a<br />
template for all animation frames a character sprite might use.</i><br />
<br />
<b>#5. How long have you been a gamer and what are some of your personal<br />
favorite RPGs (or other games, perhaps list a favorite Indie Game if<br />
you'd like, etc)</b><br />
<br />
<i>I've been gaming for as long as I can remember, since I was introduced<br />
to my grandfather's IBM-compatible DOS PC! Among all the PC models I<br />
played with at home and school, I didn't become a console gamer until<br />
the Nintendo 64 days. I mentioned before that my favourite RPGs were<br />
the humourous ones. I play games to uplift myself and well-designed<br />
humour does that for me.</i></blockquote><blockquote><b>#6. Let's talk music. The soundtrack for Bonded Realities is meoldical<br />
and quite fitting with the RPG theme. Did you create the music tracks<br />
yourself?</b><br />
<i></i></blockquote><br />
<blockquote><i>No. I licensed the music. I did have themes in my head while I was<br />
searching, though. The tunes I picked were the ones that matched<br />
closest with what I had in my head.</i><br />
<b></b></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QYiCJ9587SQ/TUXZImslwbI/AAAAAAAAAww/mIWi0c0JUXw/s1600/Bonded+Realities+Screen+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S73tjTbtVLY/TWZ_bfbk-1I/AAAAAAAABxA/ZrjB6hCRzJM/s1600/Bonded+Realities+Screen+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S73tjTbtVLY/TWZ_bfbk-1I/AAAAAAAABxA/ZrjB6hCRzJM/s400/Bonded+Realities+Screen+3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<blockquote><b>#7. Are there any easter eggs or secret hidden items in Bonded Realities?</b><br />
<br />
<i>Mostly the easter eggs come from finding all the treasure chests in<br />
the game. That's what the game considers to be 100% completion, and<br />
you get a lot of small but neat prizes for getting there. I would've<br />
liked to add more, there was a whole new mode I was considering, but<br />
there are only so many hours in a day especially for a one-man studio.</i><br />
<br />
<b>#8. When you were developing your XBLIG, what traditional RPG elements<br />
did you consider to be essential and a top priority above all else?</b><br />
<br />
<i>None of them! I wanted to make a game that was fun to play but had a<br />
simple, easy-to-pick-up interface. The original design of the game<br />
didn't even have equipment, but I added it in later purely because I<br />
was so bored writing level data that I wanted to start using my brain<br />
with some engine code. My goal was to make a game that was simple and<br />
never overwhelming, which was a common complaint for RPGs, but is<br />
arguably one of the biggest complaints about it!</i><br />
<br />
<b></b></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HyN3hLft-DQ/TWZ_6lNHg6I/AAAAAAAABxE/JGwxEqLXtY4/s1600/Bonded+Realities+Screen+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HyN3hLft-DQ/TWZ_6lNHg6I/AAAAAAAABxE/JGwxEqLXtY4/s400/Bonded+Realities+Screen+4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<blockquote><b>#9. All in all, what was the hardest part in creating Bonded Realities?</b><br />
<br />
<i>It mostly came down to underestimating the time needed to make an RPG,<br />
and a lack of organisation. I didn't encounter a problem I couldn't<br />
solve, and indeed I had a lot of fun solving design problems during<br />
development, but development as a whole just took far longer than I<br />
expected.</i><br />
<br />
<b>#10. A new patch for your RPG is slated for release sometime soon. Can<br />
you give us any details on what gameplay changes we might see in the<br />
update?</b><br />
<br />
<i>Mostly it was about making the battles a little harder, in response to<br />
feedback. A change of boxart is also coming. I didn't have much time<br />
to make major changes as there was the XNA 3.1 deadline looming, but I<br />
hope the game sells enough to fund a sequel!</i></blockquote><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/JPJ88U8xr-I?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
<br />
For more information on Red Crest Studios and "Bonded Realities", visit these links:<br />
<ul><li><a href="http://www.redcreststudios.com/">Red Crest Studios Homesite</a> </li>
</ul><ul><li><a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Bonded-Realities/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d80258550791">Bonded Realities on the XBLIG Marketplace</a> </li>
</ul>We would like to thank Mike Ventnor for the Q & A Interview--it is always nice to hear from the developers and learn more about their games. The Indieverse appreciates all efforts from developers and their respective studios not only for their games, but for these glimpses into the process of Indie Game development itself.<br />
<br />
This really was a rare opportunity to get inside a developer's imagination and see what influenced them to make their game the way it is. <br />
<br />
<br />
Stay tuned for more Interviews and other articles pertaining to XBL Indie Games here on the Indieverse.<br />
<br />
<br />
--Deeke777 at The XBL Indieverse<br />
XBLIndieverse@gmail.com (e-Mail)<br />
@XBLIndieverse (Twitter)Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-85891395652153483382011-02-09T12:12:00.000-08:002011-03-01T07:09:54.320-08:00New Releases Feb 7-9<div class="separator"> <b>New Releases: Feb. 7th - 9th</b></div><hr /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9ay3pxD8iLk/TWz7iYnTU1I/AAAAAAAAByg/ci-58iOmt9I/s400/%255Bnew%255D+XBL+Indieverse+New+Releases+Banner.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
This is our first article on the new Xbox Live Indie Games released over a certain span of time. The <i>New Releases</i> feature is a new introductory utility that The Indieverse will employ to promote and to shed some light on the noteworthy new releases. Each article will have a synopsis of the games, a brief "impression" on each of them (after a playthrough of the Trial Game) that will act as a mini-review of sorts, links to the game on the marketplace, a link a video of the game (if applicable), box art picture, and a Rating (0-5, where zero is the lowest and 5 is the highest).<br />
<br />
This particular edition will be focusing on titles released from <b>February 7th - 9th</b>, and in this short span we've seen a good number of games added to the marketplace. Since we can't focus on all the games, we've picked what we believe to the best out of the new releases.<br />
<br />
In the last two days we have seen quite a few additions to the XBLIG marketplace. There have been many official new releases, each title being unique and quite entertaining. We will be focusing on these games:<br />
<ul><li><b>Defy Gravity <sup><sub>Feb. 7</sub></sup></b></li>
<li><b>Final Rift<sup><sub> Feb 7</sub></sup></b></li>
<li><b>Zombie Concentration <sup><sub>Feb 8</sub></sup></b></li>
<li><b>Elemental Revolt: Battle High - San Bruno <sup><sub>Feb 8</sub></sup></b></li>
<li><b>Mind's Eye of Jupiter 03 <sup><sub>Feb 9</sub></sup></b></li>
</ul><div class="separator">In order to provide consistency we'll focus on the games in linear chronology in the format of ascending order--that is to say they'll be listed from earliest release date to latest. For my source of information I am using the official xbox.com Indie Game Marketplace page.</div><div class="separator"><br />
</div><div class="separator"><b>New XBLIG Releases </b><sub><sup><b>Monday, February 7th 2011</b></sup></sub></div>On this day we see two exciting and unique submissions--<i>Defy Gravity </i>and <i>Final Rift.</i> Each game has their own features and elements, but overall all three titles are quite superb and fun.<br />
<br />
Defy Gravity <br />
<img alt="Defy Gravity" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507AF_World/webboxart.jpg" title="Defy Gravity" /> <br />
<br />
<a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Defy-Gravity/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585507af">XBL Marketplace</a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-RoxjVK0bc">Video</a><br />
Developer - Fish Factory Games<br />
Rating - 4/5<br />
<br />
This game is very addictive and quite enjoyable for gamers that were fans of the Super Metroid games. It's a space-theme platformer that offers dynamic backgrounds and great music, but it's most unique element is the gravity gun that is utilized throughout--with nearly infinite possibilities, these gravity and repulsion wells are you key to beating the game. It gets rather difficult as you progress, sometimes to the point where you have to die a few times to see what works and what doesn't.<br />
<br />
Final Rift<br />
<a class="ProductBox" href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Final-Rift/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585507b0" title="Full Game - Final Rift"><img alt="Final Rift" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507B0_World/webboxart.jpg" title="Final Rift" /></a><br />
<a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Final-Rift/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585507b0">XBL Marketplace</a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jXLDg5rw9aw">Video</a><br />
Developer - LargeLaserGames<br />
Rating - 5/5<br />
<br />
Final Rift is a slightly watered down version of Space Pirates of Tomorrow in terms of mechanics and gameplay. The game itself is fantastic, though, and provides a unique hybrid of space-shooter and RPG. Shoot down other enemy ships, attack pirates; or you can be evil and smuggle illegal substances to other pirates or attack government ships. All of these scenarios and more are available in this highly-enjoyable galactic shooter!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator"><b>New XBLIG Releases </b><sub><sup><b>Tuesday, February 8th 2011</b></sup></sub></div>Tuesday brings us a very exciting title in particular; the fighting game <i>Battlehigh</i>. This game is a must-have for all Street Fighter fans out there, especially the die-hard veterans. We also are treated to DDI's next game <i>Zombie Concentration</i>, a top-down zombie shooter that takes both strategy and know-how to beat.<br />
<br />
Battehigh<br />
<img alt="Battle High: San Bruno" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507B3_World/webboxart.jpg" title="Battle High: San Bruno" /><br />
<a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Battle-High-San-Bruno/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585507b3">XBL Marketplace</a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jmXGsovfwHY">Video</a><br />
Developer - Point 5 Projects<br />
Rating - 5/5<br />
<br />
Elemental Revolt - Battlehigh: San Bruno is a true breakthrough in XLBIG's, especially in the fighter genre. It's one of the first low-res fighters that function just like Street Fighter. Everything about this title is awesome, and at a mere 80 MSP, it's a steal. A true must-have for all fighting game enthusiasts, especially Indie gamers.<br />
<br />
Zombie<br />
<div class="separator">Concentration</div><img alt="Zombie Concentration" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507B2_World/webboxart.jpg" title="Zombie Concentration" /><br />
<a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Zombie-Concentration/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585507b2">XBL Marketplace</a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJXPpAYxJC4">Video</a><br />
Developer - Drop Dead Interactive<br />
Rating - 4/5<br />
<br />
Amidst all the zombie games out there, this game is a great shmup that offers a similar playing style to the original "I Maed A Game About Zombies!1!1". With co-op play the game takes on a whole new level of fun and zombie slaughter--yet solo offers the challenge of survival hordes of undead by yourself. Will you be victorious, or will you be dinner?<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>New XBLIG Releases </b><sub><sup><b>Wednesday, February 9th 2011</b></sup></sub><br />
Today we see the introduction of the last installment of one of my favorite game series, The Mind's Eye of Jupiter. It is with mingled excitement and trepidation that I write this, as I'm anxious to see the conclusion of the story but I don't want it to end. I'm sure some of you know exactly what I mean.<br />
<br />
Mind's Eye 03<br />
<img alt="Mind's Eye of Jupiter - 03" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585507B4_World/webboxart.jpg" title="Mind's Eye of Jupiter - 03" /><br />
<a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Minds-Eye-of-Jupiter-03/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585507b4"></a><a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Minds-Eye-of-Jupiter-03/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585507b4">XBL Marketplace</a><br />
<div class="separator"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ApHLePWcTlo">Video</a></div>Developer - Travis Rogers<br />
Rating - 5/5<br />
<br />
The Mind's Eye of Jupiter series offers amazing graphics and very odd, unique environments. Never have I seen such strange architechtcure from any game, let alone an XBLIG. This series is truly a visual feat that features first-person style adventure gameplay. Mind's Eye 03 is the last installment in the trilogy, and it will conclude the story and end Alice's journey through time and space. Will the Dream Guide prevail, or will the Nightmare Guide reign supreme?<br />
<div class="separator"></div><div class="separator"></div><div class="separator"><br />
</div><div class="separator"><br />
</div><div class="separator">That concludes our New Releases article on The XBL Indieverse. Remember, if you're skeptical make sure you "try before you buy" and get the Free Trial for each of these games to see for yourself.</div><div class="separator"></div><div class="separator"><br />
</div><div class="separator"> --Deeke777 @ The XBL Indieverse</div><div class="separator"></div><div class="separator"> XBLIndieverse@gmail.com</div><br />
<br />
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-36838647749916481002011-02-09T07:48:00.000-08:002011-03-01T07:15:29.844-08:00Review: Bonded Realities<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-caiaX9kIrUU/TWz7jFX1gwI/AAAAAAAAByo/6jyd8aY87Pg/s400/%255Bnew%255D+XBL+Indieverse+Review+Banner.jpg" width="400" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On this installment of The XBL Indieverse Reviews I'll be taking a look at a new Indie RPG called "Bonded Realities". This game is a refreshing addition to the XBLIG marketplace, and at only 80 MSP, its a steal for the vast amount of content it offers. </div><br />
<b>Bonded Realities</b> <sup><sub>80 MSP</sub></sup><br />
<br />
<hr /><br />
With a main quest-line that takes multiple hours to complete, side-quests, and extra features, Bonded Realities is a must-have for all RPG fans everywhere. <br />
<br />
<img alt="Bonded Realities" class="boxart" height="400" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550791_World/xboxboxart.jpg" title="Bonded Realities" width="292" /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><ul><li><b>XBLIV Rating - </b><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RS0iseYNMN4/TVzI1LqPRKI/AAAAAAAABOA/98MhUKX63GE/s1600/4stars.jpg" /> </li>
<li><b> Developer</b> <b>-</b> Red Crest Studios</li>
<li><b>Genre - </b> RPG</li>
<li><b>Release Date</b> <b>-</b> 1/26/2011</li>
<li><b>Price - </b>80 MSP</li>
<li><b>XBL Marketplace URL </b>- <a href="http://tiny.cc/BondedRealities">Bonded Realities</a></li>
<li><b>XBL Indie Dev Site </b>- <a href="http://www.redcreststudios.com/">Red Crest Studios</a><a href="http://www.redcreststudios.com/"></a></li>
</ul><ul type="disc"></ul><i>"Enjoy an unpredictable, wacky adventure in this turn-based RPG! Crisp graphics, quality music, hilarious dialogue and ridiculous enemies are some of the things that await you in a title that brings the classic gameplay of 8- and 16-bit RPGs into an updated look and feel!</i>"<br />
<br />
--Xbox Live Marketplace Description<br />
<br />
<b>Foreword</b><br />
<br />
I would like to thank Mike Ventnor at Red Crest Studios for creating this fantastic, much-needed addition to the RPG genre in the XBLIG Marketplace. Bonded Realities is a refreshing and very original game that fits perfectly with the rest of the Indies. With all hand-drawn sprites, original and fitting music, and a game mechanic similar J-RPGs, this Indie will please long-time fans of low-res retro RPG's. <br />
<br />
This game is easily one of my favorites and is also humorous and zany, providing a more amusing and entertaining game that will make you laugh while also enjoying the serious elements.<br />
<br />
<img alt="Image from Bonded Realities" height="353" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550791_World/screen1.jpg" width="628" /><b> </b><br />
<br />
<b>I. Summary</b><br />
<br />
Bonded Realities starts off with four everyday children attending "E.Z. Childcare Centre"--right off the bat we're treated to a glimpse of the humor that is prevalent throughout.<br />
<br />
As players progress onward they learn more and more about the story and are introduced to many unique and humorous NPC's as well as enemies. The enemies always have hilarious names and their attacks are always associated with their name--for example, a "Tuning Fork" would use a sound-based attack in the form of a Note to hurt players.<br />
<br />
This zaney element adds a new level of entertainment that isn't found in most XBLIG's--one is reminded of the many silly mini-games featured in Final Fantasy games alongside Chocobos and Moggs (kupo!). Overall, this J-RPG-like game is fun for all ages and can be played by younger players without being exposed to complex plots or adult themes.<br />
<b><br />
II. Story Line</b><br />
<br />
The story focuses on four main characters: The Main Character (who's name is decided by the player), Josh, Liam, and Maria. Each have their own personalities and specialized abilities--just like any RPG, each character has different designated roles and unique strengths/weaknesses.<br />
<br />
While playing in the sandbox at the E.Z. Childcare Centre, the four children are subjected to a dimensional rift that tears them away from their homeworld and plants them each into different areas in different bodies. Their consciousnesses are still the same--they were who they were in their minds--however their bodies have been switched. This concept is hardly used in RPG's and I've never seen this particular mechanic ever used in an XBLIG.<br />
<br />
After waking up in a different world, our main character must reunite with his comrades who are scattered throughout the land, and once found, they must face the evil sorceror "Haxor" if they ever hope to get back to their own world.<br />
<br />
Will our heroes return to their own time, or will they be doomed to inhabit this fantasy world forever?<br />
<br />
<img alt="Image from Bonded Realities" height="366" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550791_World/screen4.jpg" width="633" /> <b><br />
<br />
III. Game Mechanics</b><br />
<br />
Bonded Realities functions much like gamers would expect a standard RPG would--a party system, turn based combat, items, MP & HP, abilities, drops from enemies, exp, etc. Although this game has many unique elements in terms of gameplay that make it stand apart from other RPG's, it shares the fundamental aspects that most RPG's share.<br />
<br />
Each character has HP and PP--Health Points and Party Points--that increase incrementally during level ups. HP is your basic health system that is only replenishable with items, abilities, and by sleeping. Obviously, when your HP reaches 0, the character dies. Party Points are basically MP with a different name. Different abilities take different amounts of PP, the general rule is that if it's a higher level ability it'll take more PP. Some characters will have more PP and HP than others, yet it's a balanced ratio that doesn't make any one character very strong or very weak.<br />
<br />
Just like in most RPG's of it's type, in Bonded Realities you restore both HP/PP when you sleep. You can sleep at an Inn, which has the appropriate symbol.<br />
<br />
Saving doesn't require the player to go to specific zones--you can save any time in this game. This function allows for nearly infinite flexibility in terms of being able to try a certain part over and over, and to come back at any moment of the game at any time. though, You only get four save slots, so use them wisely! <br />
<br />
Combat is quite easy in terms of mechanics--it's very easy to apply certain selections. The battle menu is very basic, but that's how it needs to be to allow gamers a clear, concise understanding of what selections are available. The abilities in this RPG can range from magical to restorative. Magic attacks do damage or inflict status ailments while restorative cure/heal party members.<br />
<br />
Monsters get stronger as the team does--they're proportional to the team's levels. Stronger monsters also provide more XP and higher quality item drops.<br />
<br />
Dialogue in Bonded Realities is very amusing and humorous--much like the rest of the game. Every NPC has something to say, however most of the time it's nothing important. You will run across a few snippets of useful info and hints from some of them, so it's best to always talk to everyone at least once.<br />
<br />
The main menu combines Equipment (the gear that the party uses) and Items into one. All equippable items aren't seperated but included as a general item, and it is up to the player to identify these items and equip them on their own. Often times players can forget to equip items when they're found or bought, so it's best to check your inventory regularly when there's an item that's unfamilar.<br />
<br />
<b> </b><img alt="Image from Bonded Realities" height="356" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550791_World/screen3.jpg" width="640" /><br />
<br />
<b>IV. Weapons/Items</b><br />
<br />
Items are very important in Bonded Realities and are implemented in a very unique way. Each character can hold individual items rather than them being lumped together in a combined "pool". This mechanic allows for each character to have a different role in battle, and it's a good idea to also distribute items to all characters. Each party member can only hold a certain number of items, however, yet the items can be switched back and forth between characters and can even be dropped. Dropped items are destroyed, though, so it's generally advised you're sure before you drop.<br />
<br />
The Items that are featured in this RPG are varied in strength and useage. Overall, there are five different types of items: Gear, Food, Key Items, Offensive Items, and Potions.<br />
<br />
Gear is all the equippable items that are used by your party--weapons and armor. Each character uses different weapons/armor depending on their fighting style and persona. For example, Josh the dragon will use "Metal Wings" as armor, while our main character uses "Jackets". Higher grade gear is essential and completely necessary as the monsters and enemies get harder and harder as you progress.<br />
<br />
Food are restorative items that can replenish HP/PP and can even raise defeated party members. It's a good idea to carry multiple pieces of food on each character. Food isn't stackable and each item takes up a slot even if there's another item of it's type already in the inventory.<br />
<br />
Key Items aren't common, and they're given to players as they progress. Think of them like "Quest Items". The first Key Item is the highly useful Smoke Bomb which allows free passage in any area. This makes it so a player isn't forced to fight battles if he or she doesn't want to, and gives a way for new players to experience the game without being overwhelmed by combat.<br />
<br />
Offensive Items are very useful and can allow a non-combat player like Maria to do high damage against enemies. Rainbow Grenades are an example of an item of this type, and it's a good idea for weaker characters to have a few of these to even the odds.<br />
<br />
Potions can restore HP and PP like food, however these items also remove status ailments (like Sleep or Poison) and can also revive fallen comrades. They're not as common as food and the rare Royal Potions revive characters to 100% of their HP/PP--basically like a Mega Elixir.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q8hrmO4b8kc/TWQTIiRloxI/AAAAAAAABw0/WwP7PscU8bU/s1600/bonded+realities+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="388" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q8hrmO4b8kc/TWQTIiRloxI/AAAAAAAABw0/WwP7PscU8bU/s640/bonded+realities+5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><b> </b><b> V. Unique Features</b><br />
<br />
There are many unique elements to be found in this humorous RPG. Whether it's the goofy and zaney dialogue or the highly customized item system, Bonded Realities sets itself apart from the rest of the RPG's in the Indie Game marketplace in a few key ways:<br />
<br />
Bonded Realities is an entirely hand-drawn game. Every single sprite was designed, drawn, and crafted by the developer. This kind of highly customized do-it-yourself kind of approach to Indie Games is quite common, however this is one of the first games to use full hand-made content. All the environments, characters, scenes and items were drawn by the developer as well.<br />
<br />
Characters in Bonded Realities have very pronounced characteristics, traits, and personalities. We learn more about each main-party character as they react in dialogue, as well as all the other secondary NPC's that each of their own personality. <br />
<br />
Humor is an important theme in this game. Whether it's the funny enemy names or the witty dialogue, players are sure to have a smile on their face as they play. Alot of the time the signs and interactive readable notes in the environments have useful information followed by a witty anecdote or joke, and sometimes they're game-related.<br />
<br />
Combat in Bonded Realities is fantastic. Some RPG's just list how much damage is dealt and recieved in a menu screen, however in this game the damage is seen in bright red and appears near the enemy (or the player) when its dealt. The rumble feature is also useful as the controller vibrates when taking and giving damage. <br />
<br />
Another very interested part of the combat is how the party's health is represented--as there isn't a ratio of health shown (such as 35/117 HP), we only see the current health. To fix this problem the developer used the unique function of having a colored bar behind the HP/PP that lowers and raises as health is drained or restored. I've never seen this function used in a game of it's type before, especially an XBLIG--this inventive and creative use of a simple colored bar provides a new way to represent any kind of incremental system.<br />
<br />
Party members also have a number of options while in combat--the menu is simple yet affords different selections. The Defend function is considerably useful for weak party members, too, and while Defending players can earn PP while they have enhanced defense against attacks.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img alt="Image from Bonded Realities" height="358" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550791_World/screen2.jpg" width="640" /></div><br />
<b>VI. Critique</b><br />
<br />
<i>The Good</i><br />
There are mnay positive aspects of Bonded Realities, especially the fact that it plays as most successful RPG's. The dynamics, mechanics, and elements all combine to deliver a unique playing experience in another world--which is what most RPG's try to achieve.<br />
<br />
The game itself is very entertaining and fun, and even as it gets more challenging as you level up, it is consistent with its overall user-friendly gameplay.<br />
<br />
RPG's themselves tend to have many familar elements that are the same flavor but with a different label. Bonded Realities breaks this mold and introduces a nice bold flavor that doesn't wane as time goes by--it actually gets better with time, and has its own unique taste that sets it apart from alot of RPGs--especially in it's Item System.<br />
<br />
There are a multitude of hidden chests throughout the game, and the developer has offered quite a treat for those gamers who collect them all. This sense of hidden items is very important to me in RPG's, as I think it adds another side-quest that heightens the enjoyment as well as provides a means for players to escape the game's arduous questline for a while.<br />
<br />
Mostly, I believe this game is great. You can see from the explanations of the multiple game mechanics and systems that I generally am pleased with the gameplay and how it functions to provide a fun and enjoyable playing experience.<br />
<br />
<i>The Bad</i><br />
Graphics were never really important to me, but that's not the same for all players. Some gamers may not like the graphics and are used to 3D high-def insead. Although the game features hand-drawn sprites, they are in 2D and aren't shaded that much, yet you can still make out the detail. Overall, it seems cartoonish, and that might put some players off. <br />
<br />
Music in this game can be trifling at times--the main theme outside of Nero makes it seem as if you're listening to Looney Tunes crossed with game music. There are some really great tracks, though some levels are without music and make use of ambient sounds and such. Overall, the music itself doesn't seem to fit what you'd expect from an epic adventure, but more like you'd find in an arcade-type kid's game.<br />
<br />
The Plot in Bonded Realities is a bit confusing, and it is without any complex strife or suffering that is essential to most RPG's. The characters themselves seem to be care-free in the sense that they only have one single goal--to get out of this world. They don't develop new problems along the way and the general plot doesn't branch off, it's more of a straight path.<br />
<br />
The game is a bit too short for my tastes, though. Players might find this aspect to be quite unnerving, however for 80 MSP it's unwise to expect 10+ hours of gameplay. Also the game has almost no replay value--after you beat it once it'll be exactly the same the second time around. <br />
<b><br />
VII. Wrap-Up</b><br />
<br />
As you can see, my outlook on this game is favorable. It is generally a quite positive RPG that utilizes humor instead of having to have serious dramatic elements and blood and guts to entertain players.<br />
<br />
To create a game that can be played and enjoyed by all gamers of all types and ages is certainly a dificult task, and that is exactly what the developer has done here. Younger gamers can fully enjoy this game without having to worry about buckets of gore or adult themes, and parents are free to let their children enjoy this content without having to be concerned.<br />
<br />
Bonded Realities is certainly a breath of fresh air to the XBLIG RPG genre, especially since we haven't seen many new additions for a bit now. It definitely brings a new, albeit quick, game for players everywhere to add to their libraries.<br />
<br />
It's advised for all of those that are dubious of the game to first try out the Free Trial. Remember the mantra "Try Before You Buy" and you'll do well by your MSP bank and your game library collection. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ts8UyUWX9ew?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
<b> VIII. Developer Information</b><br />
<br />
<img alt="Red Crest Studios Blog" height="71" id="Header1_headerimg" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe2Z-5sV0zOA0H8hC5Za6cqr-K7qb4OfZk0QvPimExAxf7Ik6PSBxbd-u17QOdXUy6xyaBQIDMVnsBTdt_UhSPCp8WfCw0xK9U8gYdFm5Gz9t4NWLYugHfBPoF9bbKZPosjRNeZLN31X5n/s1600-r/redcrestbanner.png" style="display: block;" width="320" /><a href="http://www.redcreststudios.com/" style="display: block;"> </a><br />
<br />
Bonded Realities was created by Red Crest Studios. Mike Ventnor is the founder and operator of this game studio, and has been busy promoting his title for some time now. He has released a new game cover illustrated by the user NoogyTweet, and it's quite stupendous.<br />
<br />
The XBL Indieverse has had the pleasure to interview Mike Ventnor from Red Crest Studios. <br />
<br />
For more information on Red Crest Studios visit their <a href="http://www.redcreststudios.com/">homesite.</a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Bonded Realities" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550791_World/webboxart.jpg" title="Bonded Realities" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Trial-Game-Bonded-Realities/00000000-0000-4000-8000-000058550791?cid=search">Try the Free Demo!</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<img alt="http://www.securitiesdocket.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/twitter_logo1.gif" src="http://www.securitiesdocket.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/twitter_logo1.gif" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/MikeVentron">@MikeVentron</a></div><br />
<br />
Skeptical? Want to try Bonded Realities out for yourself? Here is a <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/Product/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d80258550791">link</a> to a Free Trial of the game so you can find out if this game is right for you.<br />
<br />
--Deeke777 @ The XBL Indieverse<br />
dek777@gmail.com<br />
@XBLIndieverse<br />
<br />
[Mħ±Î©Ø®è]Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-71603620760339488152011-02-07T12:01:00.000-08:002011-03-01T07:16:50.052-08:00Review: Decay Pt. One<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5CLENsgiHyg/TW0Aeqq_9yI/AAAAAAAAByw/7lRkh1Rcxc8/s400/%255Bnew%255D+XBL+Indieverse+Review+Banner.jpg" width="400" /></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>Decay: Part One </b><sup>80 MSP</sup></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><sup> <hr align="center" size="2" width="100%" /></sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><br />
<img _fcksavedurl="http://www.gameassembly.com//images/stories/Decay Gold(2).jpg" height="300" src="http://www.gameassembly.com//images/stories/Decay%20Gold%282%29.jpg" width="219" /><br />
<i><br />
"Decay is an episodic thriller/horror adventure game. The story in Decay is very dark and the game has a very creepy atmosphere and challenging gameplay.</i>"<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> --Xbox Live Marketplace Description<b> </b></div><ul><li><b>XBLIV Rating -</b> <img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gmbXM6Nf7sU/TVzI1KZWekI/AAAAAAAABN8/suanIhz1r_s/s1600/5stars.jpg" /> <span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 204, 0);">GOLD</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Developer</b> <b>-</b> Shining Gate Software</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Genre - </b> Action & Adventure</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Release Date</b> <b>-</b> 5/1/2010</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Price - </b>80 MSP</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>XBL Marketplace URL </b>- <a href="http://bit.ly/euDCTZ">Decay: Part One</a></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>XBL Indie Dev Site </b>- <a href="http://www.decay.shining-gate.se/">Shining Gate Software</a></li>
</ul></div><ul type="disc"></ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><br />
<b>I. Foreword<br />
<br />
</b>Shining Gate Software, the developer of this awesome Indie Game, is responsible for all Decay games. They create quality 3-D games that are masterfully designed and suspenseful--you get the idea that you're in a horror story that unfolds as you play, sort of like an interactive book of sorts. The Decay series is easily a top-pick for all gamers out there, especially fans of suspenseful horror games.<br />
<br />
<img alt="Image from Decay - Part 1" height="367" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585504D0_World/screen1.jpg" width="653" /><br />
<br />
<b>II. Summary<br />
<br />
</b>Decay Part I is the introductory title in the episodic series made by Shining Gate Software, and it begins the complex and cryptic tale that is the basis of the games. The whole story is a mystery, however we learn new things as we collect items and solve puzzles--the puzzles aren't very hard, and they require logic to solve. Shining Gate also offers hints and tips on their website, especially for those frustrated by the many mind-games.<br />
<br />
Basically this game is a first-person mystery adventure game that is very similar to most detective games on PC, and it reminds me of Interplay's classic PC game Alone in the Dark. It's in full 3D and contains many fabulously detailed meshes and textures, as well as interactive environments. This game is truly a worthy bearer of the adventure horror title specifically because it makes the player feel a sense of complete disorientation by keeping things very mysterious and unexplained--basically, you really <i>are</i> alone in the dark in this Indie.<br />
<br />
<b>III. Story Line<br />
<br />
</b>Decay's story line is quite enigmatic and there are many inexplicable and unexplained fragments of story throughout--generally you learn more and more through the use of items such as notes and other puzzling messages written on the walls. The spaces are empty, and you are alone--or are you? <br />
<br />
The story of this game delves in the supernatural world of ghosts and spirits, however in the first game you aren't really introduced to this phenomenon. Basically, you are a father who had a family--a daughter and a wife--and for some reason you have awoken with a noose around your neck. Supposedly the main character tried to commit suicide (or maybe he did, and he's dead? One of the many questions you might ask yourself while playing this game) and who was presumably haunted by something...<br />
<br />
As we move onwards throughout the levels we find out that our neighbor was a total psychopath who killed his entire family--the dreaded Mr. White. Perhaps the same evil that haunted Mr. White is now haunting our main character, and he might be slipping deeper into the madness that threatens to consume his very soul...</div><img alt="Image from Decay - Part 1" height="358" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585504D0_World/screen2.jpg" width="636" /><br />
<br />
<b>III. Game Mechanics<br />
<br />
</b>Decay functions much like you'd expect any cursor-scrolling adventure game would; it has an interactive menu that allows you to not only combine items, but "Examine" them as well to inspect them for hidden clues. This is essential to solve the puzzles and get farther in the game. <br />
<br />
There is a scrolling cursor reminescent of what you'd find in a standard PC game, and that is your main tool in finding items and solving puzzles. Most buttons are unused as far as the control scheme goes, yet the directional pad is utilized quite heavily as well as the main buttons--A, X, Y, and B. You can't free-walk in this game--its seperated into "scenes", sort of like an old movie. Each scene depicts a certain environment and often these environments can be interacted with.<br />
<br />
There is no essential combat or health, or any form of real interaction with other characters in this first version. Basically you are completely alone, and that allows players to feel the entire sense of isolation that is necessary for any suspenseful game. The basic goal in the game is to learn more about the mystical circumstances that brought you here, to solve the puzzles, and to move onward so that you can solve the ultimate puzzle--the decryption of Decay's heavily encrypted story line.<br />
<br />
<b>IV. Weapons/Items<br />
<br />
</b>Although this game lacks weapons, it has no use for them. Items come into play heavily, and every single item in the game is in 3D--quite exceptionally, too, for an Indie. <br />
<br />
Nearly every item in the game serves a unique function, however some are sort of trophies, if you will, or tokens that offer a hint of the story as well as a sense of what and who the character is. This small oddity offers a refreshing sense of commendation to the player, especially if the token item is something humorous or something that's a hoomage to other games.<br />
<br />
Items can be Combined, Examined, and Used. Our character Uses items when they're logically called for--in example, you'd use a "key" on a "Locked Door", and a "Remote Control" on a "Television Set" (yes, you do get to watch TV in this game, but it's only one channel). This sense of logic when using/combining items is what allows the player to succeed by thinking abstractly and outside of the box.<br />
<br />
It's also very advantageous to examine everything and to look around--you may miss an important item that is "hidden" underneath something else, or behind another object, etc. Keeping aware of your surroundings and focusing as well as keeping a logical frame of mind can be the difference from solving a puzzle or wandering around not knowing what to do.<br />
<br />
<img alt="Image from Decay - Part 1" height="361" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585504D0_World/screen3.jpg" width="643" /><b> </b><br />
<br />
<b>V. Unique Features</b><br />
<b><br />
</b>Decay is the first game of it's kind on the XBL Indie Games Marketplace, and its series has yet to be rivaled by any other series or game. It has surely re-defined the Indie Game "adventure" genre, specifically by adding a sense of infinite perplexity to the game that makes gamers want to keep playing.<br />
<br />
It has yet to be surpassed or challenged in both its genre and general game style by any other developer.<br />
<br />
Shining Gate Software is truly a unique game development teamm that employs an emphatic sense of the unknown to their games. As a society, we have all been entertained by horror movies, stories, and graphic novels--the demand for this industry of blood and gore is very high, and it is no surprise that Decay's game series is popular as well. Gamers all around the world clamor for more from the studio, and all the Decay games have been critically acclaimed and recognized for their unique gameplay.<br />
<br />
Overall, the game has many unique features--the main being the wonderfully detailed 3D environments and items. The development team has worked countless hours rendering these objects and their persistence is reflected in the quality of the designs and textures. From the opening scene to the very last segment, Decay Part I captivates us with incredible graphics for an Indie title.<br />
<br />
This fantastically strange Indie also features a dynamic cursor that is much like you'd expect while playing a PC game of this genre--giving it that classic feel of playing a retro first-person survival-horror game. This cursor allows you to inspect various objects in the environment, and often you can interact with this objects to start or finish a puzzle.<br />
<br />
<b>VI. Critique</b> <b>(The Good & Bad)</b><br />
<br />
<u>The Good</u><br />
<i><br />
The Graphics</i><br />
We all know most retail games are rated by many categories, one of them being graphics--gamers love high resolution games that sport amazing graphics. That being said, Decay Part I has some of the best graphics that you'll find in an XBL Indie Game, especially out of the horror games. It distinguishes itself from other games by using 3D environments to creep players out and to imbibe a true sense of the occult and the mystery that's associated with it.<br />
<br />
<i>The Puzzles<br />
</i>Puzzles are the main bulk of content in Decay--it's how the game basically functions to provide a challenge. These puzzles are cleverly designed to flow not only with the general theme of the game but with the story line as well--every puzzle has a key into what the story actually is, and who our character is, etc. Most of these puzzles are quite easy and take a keen and observant eye to solve quickly.<br />
<br />
<i>The Macabre<br />
</i>This game manages to do something that is quite hard--to make scary horror content without using violence or extreme amounts of gore. It's a pure psychological thriller that utilizes many other elements other than simple blood and guts--isolationism, for one, or the sense that you're being "watched" but no one's around. It is very rare to find an Indie Game that utilizes this kind of structure, especially one that is of the adventure classification.<br />
<u></u><br />
<u></u><br />
<u><br />
</u><img alt="Image from Decay - Part 1" height="355" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585504D0_World/screen4.jpg" width="632" /> <br />
<br />
<u>The Bad</u><b><br />
<br />
</b><i>Boring to Some<br />
</i>Decay isn't for everyone--it's more of an acquired taste. It's slow, and it has no combat or fighting in it--moreso an introspective journey into the hellish landscapes of a tormented person's mind. It's highly recommended that you try before you buy--all XBLIG's offer a Free Trial to download on the XBL Marketplace so that you can see if you enjoy the game or not <i>before</i> you make the purchase.<br />
<br />
<i>Puzzle Difficulty<br />
</i>If players can't solve the puzzles, they don't want to play--it's as simple as that. Some gamers just want to play a game, not to think about it or even think outside of the box. These are more reflex-oriented gamers, not those who find importance in detailed storylines and such. Even though Shining Gate offers walkthroughs and tips, if a gamer is discouraged by not being able to solve a puzzle, they don't want to go out of their way to figure it out--they'll just move on to another game.<br />
<br />
<i>Gameplay Is Too Short<br />
</i>The gameplay for Decay Part I is estimated at 30 minutes, give or take. For some it may take longer, for some it may take less. Overall, though, it was meant to be a simple introductory chapter and a practice run for the team to learn and experience their craft. The other two titles in the series are planned to be double what the first is. For 80 MSP, this game is a steal even if it's too short, however some players might really dislike that and it'll discourage some from playing.<br />
<br />
<b>VII. Wrap-Up<br />
<br />
</b>As you can see, Decay Part I is a great and expansive first-person horror adventure that offers unique puzzles, a cryptic and psychologically macabre storyline, and classic game dynamics that are found in early PC survival horror games. <br />
<br />
The first title in the series illuminates only a smidgin of detail that the other games will bring, and this inspires gamers to continue onwards to the next chapter, and so on, until the mystery is finally decoded. Suspense and creepy atmospheres as well as dark and disorientating imagery combine to make this game an unforgettable experience for all horror-movie fans and horror gamers everywhere.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/VDvyJPCWBEM?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
<b>VIII. Developer Info<br />
<br />
</b><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="http://decay.shining-gate.se/Images/logo.jpg" src="http://decay.shining-gate.se/Images/logo.jpg" /></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.shining-gate.se/101126/">Shining Gate Software Homesite</a> </div><br />
<b>Shining Gate Software</b> was founded in 2009 and is native to the country Sweden. Shining Gate began development on their first project, the Decay series, later that year. With months of work they released Decay Part 1, the first installment in the saga--also the most successful in terms of Ratings.<br />
<br />
Shining Gate also offers contracted work--they'll work on an Indie Game for either a professional or amateur and are looking to expand to a professional medium.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Decay - Part 1" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585504D0_World/webboxart.jpg" title="Decay - Part 1" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Decay-Part-1/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585504d0?cid=search&purchase=1&DownloadType=GameDemo">Try the Free Demo!</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><cite></cite><a href="http://www.shining-gate.se/"><cite></cite></a></div><br />
--Deeke777 @ The XBL Indieverse <br />
dek777@gmail.com<br />
[Mħ±Î©Ø®è]Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-4614542621304306582011-02-02T15:10:00.000-08:002011-03-01T07:18:41.258-08:00Review: Mind's Eye of Jupiter I<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5CLENsgiHyg/TW0Aeqq_9yI/AAAAAAAAByw/7lRkh1Rcxc8/s400/%255Bnew%255D+XBL+Indieverse+Review+Banner.jpg" width="400" /></div><b><br />
Foreword<br />
</b>I would first like to extend thanks to the developer of this visual masterpiece, Travis Rogers, and secondly say that this game is beyond anything I have seen in any other Indie Game on the XBL Marketplace. It's unprecedented and amazing graphics, incredible alien and bizarre environments, and clever puzzles make The<b> </b>Mind's Eye of Jupiter a must-have title for all fans of the fps adventure genre. <br />
<br />
There are moments in this game that you just have to sit back and admire the scenery, especially if it's a strange and ancient alien relic that is also a doorway through space and time.<br />
<b><br />
<br />
Mind's Eye of Jupiter Ep. 1</b> <sup><sub>240 MSP</sub></sup><br />
<hr /><br />
<img _fcksavedurl="http://www.gameassembly.com//images/stories/Mind's Eye of Jupiter 01 Gold Seal.jpg" height="300" src="http://www.gameassembly.com//images/stories/Mind%27s%20Eye%20of%20Jupiter%2001%20Gold%20Seal.jpg" width="219" /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><ul type="disc"><li><b>XBLIV Rating -</b> <img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gmbXM6Nf7sU/TVzI1KZWekI/AAAAAAAABN8/suanIhz1r_s/s1600/5stars.jpg" /> <span style="background-color: #ffcc00;">GOLD</span></li>
<li><b>Developer</b> <b>-</b> Travis Rogers<br />
</li>
<li><b>Genre - </b> Adventure<br />
</li>
<li><b>Release Date</b> <b>-</b> 6/9/2009</li>
<li><b>Price - </b>240 MSP</li>
<li><span style="background-color: #ffcc00;"></span><b>XBL Marketplace URL </b>- <a _fcksavedurl="http://bit.ly/gLpkk3" href="http://bit.ly/gLpkk3">bit.ly/gLpkk3</a></li>
<li><b>XBL Indie Dev Site </b>- <a _fcksavedurl="http://www.domainoftheinfinite.com" href="http://www.domainoftheinfinite.com/">www.domainoftheinfinite.com</a></li>
</ul><i>"A woman searches the ruins of a Roman Temple for the legend of the Mind's Eye of Jupiter, a hidden portal to another time. Download episode one of this 3D sci-fi adventure game.</i>"<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;"> --Xbox Live Marketplace Description</div><br />
<b>I. Summary<br />
</b>This game is very similar to old PC adventure games such as the Myst series. While there is no direct combat or fighting, it certainly would seem out of place in this game both in functionality as well as dynamically. <br />
<br />
Instead of fighting with brawn, you use your brains to figure out clever alien puzzles, collecting artifacts along the way like keys that unlock doors or high-tech grav units that allow you to float in the air. This game is a true test of wit and logic as well as being one of the most fantastically designed and animated 3D XBL Indie Games I've ever had the pleasure of playing.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://www.gameassembly.com//images/stories/Mind's Eye of Jupiter 01 Screenshot2.jpg" height="223" src="http://www.gameassembly.com//images/stories/Mind%27s%20Eye%20of%20Jupiter%2001%20Screenshot2.jpg" width="400" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>The ancient Roman ruins--notice the 3D environments.</i></div><br />
<b>II. Story Line</b><br />
The beginning chapter in the Mind's Eye Trilogy starts off with our heroine and main character, Alice Renee, arriving at some ancient ruins from the Roman civilization. Alice comes from a time that is technologically advanced and modernized--her utilities such as the torch and her water-powered car reflect how far her people have come.<br />
<br />
Our heroine is an intrepid explorer who has no fear and knows no boundaries. She's been searching for the Mind's Eye for quite some time, and only at this point in her searching has she received what appears to be a solid lead. People of her time called her crazy and that she was chasing a myth, however Alice pesevered and eventually found the Roman ruins that would change her life (and other lives) forever.<br />
<br />
The first chapter is basically an introduction the series itself and bears little explanation, however at the end you meet what appears to be an alien creature--and it raises more questions than it answers. Much is revealed in the second chapter, however.<br />
<br />
<b>III</b>. <b>Game Mechanics</b><br />
As far as overall mechanics go this game is quite simplistic. The HUD is a basic first person view that offers an arrow that takes the place of a crosshair, and certain indicators will appear when certain options are available. For instance a mouth icon appears when you are able to hold dialogue with an NPC, and a hand icon will appear when you can pick a certain item up to use.<br />
<br />
The game also has no inventory, yet most items that you pick up are used for a puzzle anyway so it's not neccessarily a requirement. There are no stats, no health and no concept of dying or "losing"--the very basis of all adventure games of this specific type. <br />
<br />
There is no specific tangible goal other than to solve the puzzles and move on to learn more about the Mind's Eye of Jupiter. This game also offers a genuine sense of nostalgia for the old glory days of PC adventure gaming where the object of the game wasn't to kill or destroy but to solve and learn and use your wits to beat the game--this is reflected quite often in Mind's Eye.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://www.gameassembly.com//images/stories/Mind's Eye of Jupiter 01 Screenshot3.jpg" height="224" src="http://www.gameassembly.com//images/stories/Mind%27s%20Eye%20of%20Jupiter%2001%20Screenshot3.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>An example of the bizarre styles and designs that are seen throughout</i>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><b></b></div><b> <br />
IV. Weapons / Items<br />
</b>While there are no weapons (and no enemies so there is no actual need for weapons) in this game there are useable items and artifacts.<br />
<br />
Items that are placed nearby that are required to use to solve puzzles are artifacts. These can be found in various levels and must be used in a certain way in order to solve the puzzle. Sometimes the specific puzzle won't require items but moreso switches or dials.<br />
<br />
You attain multiple utilities to use in this game, yet some of them are applied passively and automatically and don't require activation. The Laser Torch, for example, requires activation (and a recharge) to use while the Anti-Grav unit is activated upon pick-up.<br />
<br />
<img _fcksavedurl="http://www.gameassembly.com//images/stories/Mind's Eye of Jupiter 01 Screenshot1.jpg" height="358" src="http://www.gameassembly.com//images/stories/Mind%27s%20Eye%20of%20Jupiter%2001%20Screenshot1.jpg" width="640" /><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Behold the mysterious Mind's Eye of Jupiter</i>.</div><b><br />
V. Unique Features<br />
</b>The most unique aspect of Mind's Eye of Jupiter are the breathtaking environments and scenes. Now while you play the Trial Version you may not get to an area that reflects on the alien culture--you'll most likely see the ruins and the crypt before the demo ends. <br />
<br />
This game beholds some of the most fantastic and truly amazing architecture that I've ever seen in a Xbox Live Indie Game, especially one of the adventure genre. The temple where the Mind's Eye of Jupiter is located, for example, is an incredible feat of a vivid imagination. Walking along the level and admiring the environment is something you'll get used to doing while playing this game, especially as you progress deeper and deeper in the alien structures.<br />
<br />
It's hard to describe in words the level of imaginitive inspiration I received from the scenery and the structures in this game--they are truly from another world and they are strangely appealing. <br />
<br />
This game has visual flair that redefines what we expect from 3D Indie Games--the structures, environments, skyscapes and backgrounds are all blended and designed to make an unforgettable view with every stage and level.<br />
<br />
Mind's Eye also holds a sense of comedic relief, as our heroine, Alice, is quite quirky and enjoys talking to herself throughout the game. These quips reinforce her personality and also reinforce the characterization of her role.<br />
<br />
Eventually as she unlocks greater secrets and gets farther and farther into the dimensional rift, Alice becomes the only one who can either bring salvation to a ruined world or destroy it with sadistic glee.<br />
<br />
The music in this game is absent, however there are still fitting ambient sounds that perfectly imbibe a sense of mystery and awe within a player, as if they are discovering some great hidden secret that was locked away since the beginning of time.<br />
<br />
<b>VI. Wrap-Up<br />
</b>Overall, Mind's Eye of Jupiter is a classic affirmation in what a PC adventure game would look like on a console. Combined with the amazing graphics and scenery, the entertaining puzzles, and the mysterious and cryptic storyline, Mind's Eye is an intriguing and engaging game that makes you think outside the box.<br />
<br />
Although it lacks in many aspects, Mind's Eye more than makes up for it in the superb alien architectural design and awe-inspiring visuals. Discover what this mythical doorway in time really is, and what it is responsible for as you progress onward to the Spirit Guide, an oracle that behods premonitions and prophecies.<br />
<br />
It's advised to try the game out before you buy it, especially since it's a bit trying to some. Definitely try it to get a glimpse of the detail that's involved in the graphics and experience what makes Mind's Eye such an unforgettable experience.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/z-ij5-ta7qc?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
<b> VII. Developer Information<br />
</b>The developer of this game is Travis Rogers, a long-time gamer and developer responsible for the "Mind's Eye of Jupiter" trilogy. He has several Mind's Eye and other webcomics published on Revver.com.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="http://mallow.wakcdn.com/avatars/000/011/912/normal.png" src="http://mallow.wakcdn.com/avatars/000/011/912/normal.png" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://revver.com/u/rogerst/">Travis Rogers' Revver Webcomics</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="http://www.alliancedatacom.com/images/home-icon.gif" src="http://www.alliancedatacom.com/images/home-icon.gif" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.domainoftheinfinite.com/">Domain Of The Infinite Homepage</a></div><br />
Recently the XBL Indie Games reviewer site <b>Armless Octopus.com</b> conducted an interview with the developer of this title. That interview can be found here <a _fcksavedurl="http://bit.ly/gazrGR" href="http://bit.ly/gazrGR">bit.ly/gazrGR</a><br />
<br />
Remember to "<i>try before you buy</i>"--that small mantra can save you a lot of heartache and aggrevation, but don't be afraid to try new things or else you won't ever find anything new and surprisingly fun.<br />
<br />
Well that's all for Mind's Eye, the unforgettable sci-fi adventure epic that pits our heroine in a complex story that unravels the very fabric of the universe and parts the infinite sea of time itself.<br />
<br />
<a _fcksavedurl="http://bit.ly/dFj8Ns" href="http://bit.ly/dFj8Ns"></a>That concludes my official Review of Mind's Eye of Jupiter Ep. 1. Be sure to try it for yourself to see if my review holds merit in your opinion--all feedback is appreciated, good or bad!<br />
<br />
--Deeke777<br />
Deeke@XboxLive<br />
dek777@gmail.com<br />
[Mħ±Î©Ø®è]Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-34011468760481093372011-02-01T16:06:00.000-08:002011-03-01T07:20:33.798-08:00Review: Antipole<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5CLENsgiHyg/TW0Aeqq_9yI/AAAAAAAAByw/7lRkh1Rcxc8/s400/%255Bnew%255D+XBL+Indieverse+Review+Banner.jpg" width="400" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This review will be my first mini-review focused on XBLIG's--these mini-reviews will be sort of like impressions of the game's trial versions rather than the full versions. As you can see there are not as many parts to it and it's compressed compared to a normal Review article. </div><br />
<b>Antipole </b><sup>240 MSP</sup><br />
<br />
<div align="center"><hr align="center" size="2" width="100%" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
<img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550786_World/xboxboxart.jpg" alt="Antipole" class="boxart" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550786_World/xboxboxart.jpg" title="Antipole" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><ul type="disc"><li><b>XBLIV Rating - </b><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CuAUBmENzxI/TVzI1aqGtII/AAAAAAAABOE/IWq-kVQIYhY/s1600/3stars.jpg" /></li>
<li><b>Developer -</b> Saturnine Games LLC</li>
<li><b>Genre -</b> Platformer</li>
<li><b>Release Date -</b> 1/21/2011</li>
<li><b>Price -</b> 240 MSP</li>
<li><b>XBL Marketplace URL - <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%20http://bit.ly/g5XNLX">Antipole</a></b><a href="http://bit.ly/g5XNLX"></a></li>
<li><b>Developer Website -</b> <a href="http://www.saturninegames.com/site/">Saturnine Games</a></li>
</ul>"<i>Wield your powers of gravity manipulation to fend off a robot invasion. Perform impossible jumps, destroy enemies, and solve puzzles by bending gravity. Explore 20 challenging levels, 2 difficulty settings, and bonus unlockable content</i>."<br />
--Xbox Live Indie Games Marketplace Description<br />
<b><br />
Saturine Games LLC</b> is quite an interesting Indie Game Developer studio--it has created a title on not only XBL Indie Games but on Nintendo DSiWare as well, making them a cross-over studio that focuses on more than one Indie gameset. Their DSiWare game, Cosmos X-2, is a space-age shooter that incorporates first person views as well as a third person shoot-em-up adventure--this game is quite different than their XBL release, however. Saturine Games has also announced another upcoming title to be released on the XBL Indie Games Marketplace: it's dubbed as "Turtle Tale" and has only been announced through a promotional game cover--no details were released yet on this future project.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550786_World/screen3.jpg" alt="Image from Antipole" height="223" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550786_World/screen3.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
<b>Antipole</b>, Saturine Games LLC's first Platformer, is quite inventive and unique as it incorporates gravity transversal which allows players to think outside the box to progress onwards throughout the game. Conventionally, platformers are side-scrollers that have one main objective: to get to the next level or stage. To do that, however, is the challenge--many foes lie await in your way along with deadly obstacles and lethal drops. Players must jump, evade, kill and most importantly, plan their attempts or failure is guaranteed. Antipole takes a conventional Platformer and flips it over on it's head--literally.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550786_World/screen2.jpg" alt="Image from Antipole" height="223" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550786_World/screen2.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
By giving gamers the ability to use ceilings to get powerups and to progress onwards throughout levels, Antipole has earned a passage in one of the most original platformers I've ever seen in an Indie Game. I can't help but to be reminded of Castlevania's Symphony of the Night, especially when the entire game map is inverted and turned upside down--Antipole further challenges gamers to think differently and abstractly all while enjoying all the themes and elements you'd come to expect from any platformer game.<br />
This sci-fi side-scroller has a loose storyline that progresses as you get farther and farther throughout the game, but the mechanics and overall goal are the same--kill foes, get past obstacles, get to the next stage.<br />
<br />
Antipole also has great color composition and style--the menus are amazing and the characters, meters, power ups, and tokens are animated very well. Another unique element of this game is its unlockables--usually most games use this as an incentive to buy the game, however Antipole offers a slew of "awardments" that can unlock in-game content as well as power-ups for your character. We've seen this same concept take place in many Indie Games, and to me, it's an unique and fun replacement for Achievements and Awards found in retail Xbox Live Arcade and retail Xbox 360 games.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550786_World/screen4.jpg" alt="Image from Antipole" height="225" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550786_World/screen4.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
It is highly reccommended to all those that enjoy minor puzzler/unique Platformers, especially futuristically-themed ones. Try the Trial Game for free--I've played it many times over now, as its a great game to blow off some steam and have fun by flying up onto the ceiling--if you're skeptical, yet I find myself as a gamer who enjoys RPGs and not Platformers yet I had quite an enjoyable time with this game.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/x3JH8hIZy2s?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
For more information on Antipole and it's creator, Saturnine Games, check the links below:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="http://www.alliancedatacom.com/images/home-icon.gif" src="http://www.alliancedatacom.com/images/home-icon.gif" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.saturninegames.com/site/">Saturnine Games Homepage</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a class=" ProductBox" href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Antipole/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d80258550786" title="Antipole"><img alt="Antipole" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550786_World/webboxart.jpg" title="Antipole" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Trial-Game-Antipole/00000000-0000-4000-8000-000058550786?cid=search">Antipole Game Demo</a> </div><br />
--Deeke777<br />
dek777@gmail.com<br />
[Mħ±Î©Ø®è]Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-37236710102335658252011-02-01T12:30:00.000-08:002011-03-01T07:21:31.040-08:00Review: Zombie Estate<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5CLENsgiHyg/TW0Aeqq_9yI/AAAAAAAAByw/7lRkh1Rcxc8/s400/%255Bnew%255D+XBL+Indieverse+Review+Banner.jpg" width="400" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><b>Zombie Estate</b><sub><sup> 80 MSP<br />
<hr /></sup></sub><br />
<img alt="Zombie Estate" class="boxart" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550500_World/xboxboxart.jpg" title="Zombie Estate" /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b></b></div><ul><li><b>XBLIV Rating -</b> <img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gmbXM6Nf7sU/TVzI1KZWekI/AAAAAAAABN8/suanIhz1r_s/s1600/5stars.jpg" /> <span style="color: blue;"><span style="background-color: #ffcc00;">GOLD</span></span><b> </b></li>
<li><b>Developer</b> <b>-</b> JeremyVerchick48</li>
<li><b>Genre - </b>Shooter</li>
<li><b>Release Date</b> <b>-</b> 5/15/2010</li>
<li><b>Price - </b>80 MSP</li>
<li><span style="color: blue;"><span style="background-color: #ffcc00;"></span></span><b>XBL Marketplace URL </b>- <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Zombie-Estate/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d80258550500?cid=search">Zombie Estate</a></li>
</ul><ul id="ProductPublishing"></ul><i>"Survive 25 waves of zombies in this retro-3D shooter! 30 characters to choose from, over 20 weapons at your disposal, and thousands of zombies to kill! Play with up to 4 players in this action-packed adventure! Can you survive in Zombie Estate</i>?!"<br />
--Xbox Live Marketplace Description<br />
<br />
<b>I. Summary</b><br />
Zombie Estate is a fan favorite for a very good reason--it's highly addictive and provides a challenge unlock most shooter games on the XBL Indie Games marketplace. With up to four-player co-op, this shoot-em-up is sure to please even those that aren't fans of the shooter genre.<br />
<br />
The graphics are retro-style and they deliver a pleasant blend of nostalgia and creepiness to fit in with the overall "zombie" theme. Fight hoardes of evil creatures that get stronger and stronger as you get farther in the game--however you're aided with better and better artillery with each passing wave. All in all, Zombie Estate has something for all gamers and is entertaining for all ages.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img alt="Image from Zombie Estate" height="224" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550500_World/screen3.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
<b>II. Game Mechanics</b><br />
This particular Indie Game functions like most classic survivalist horror shooter games--you get a pool of lives and different weapons, and must find strategic ways to slaughter the incoming masses of enemies. Reminiscent of old NES games we all grew up with, Zombie Estate has an expansive 3D environment that you can navigate through as well as many obstacles to hide behind--and of course there is the estate mansion that serves as a safe house of sorts. <br />
<br />
Basically you must dispatch every single undead in any given wave to move onwards to the next wave, and after each progression the monsters upgrade and get stronger. After each round you are also allowed to purchase ammunition and artillery from the shop. As you kill monsters and undead you attain currency which can be traded in for ammo and guns at the shop. There are a number of unique weapons to choose from, and as you progress to higher waves the guns get stronger and more awesome...yet they are also more costly.<br />
<br />
Choose from thirty different characters, each with a unique avatar representation--wacky and random characters add a sense of fun to the game, as you can use Bob the alien to cut down hoardes of skeletons and zombies with what appears to be a holy super soaker XD.<br />
<br />
As you kill enemies they drop items such as health, ammunition, and currency. There are various types of ammuniton for each type of weapon; rocket launchers use rockets, etc. Items will disappear after a certain amount of time, so if an item is blinking, do your best to get to it before it diminishes.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image from Zombie Estate" height="224" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550500_World/screen4.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
<b>III. Weapons/Items</b><br />
To me it is the weaponry that makes this game most fun. When you get around 10k-15k dollars you can afford some of the best weapons and enhance your entertainment to greater lengths. Even acquiring the Rocket Launcher adds a new way to enjoy the game by allowing you to kill multiple enemies with one shot.<br />
<br />
Another interesting weapon is the main default starting weapon--the pistol. This gun doesn't run out of ammunition--it is infinite, and has a very high reload rate but a average fire rate. At the beginning it's very useful but it loses its utility as the monsters get stronger and stronger. It's great for a back-up weapon or to use to finish off a weakened enemy.<br />
<br />
The assault rifles are incredibly useful yet they use ammunition very fast, so it's best to use them sparsely. The shotgun does devstatingly high damage up close, and it can shred groups of enemies, too. All the weapons have their own unique firing rate, accuracy, reload rate, etc. to ensure that a fair and balanced weapon system is in place.<br />
<br />
The Items are basically power-ups that enemies drop when they're killed, and you walk over them in the battle field to pick them up. These power-ups are ammo, health, and currency. Health packs can also be bought at the Shop for a nominal fee.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b><img alt="Image from Zombie Estate" height="224" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550500_World/screen1.jpg" width="400" /><b> </b><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>IV. Story Line<br />
</b></div></div>Zombie Estate is lacking in a story line--however this is yet another example of a game that doesn't need a good story line to be excellent and enteratining. As I haven't finished the game yet (I've gotten close, yet it's quite hard to play solo) I'm not exactly sure if there's an official ending or not. I'll update this posting again once I've beaten the game.<br />
<br />
<b>V. Unique Features<br />
</b><br />
This zombie shoot-em-up Indie game has many unique features that are implemented in it's gameplay. The expansive 3D environments that you can navigate and roam while killing zombies and other undead is superbly mapped and it allows for more of a strategic playing style rather than a blank field or room. The crosshair is another feature that is very useful and for this directional-shooter and you can change your line of sight at any time which makes it useful when enemies sneak up behind you.<br />
<br />
When you attack enemies they are injured and damaged from each shot--if they are weakened they will be disfigured and bloodied. This allows a player to distinguish a strong enemy from a potential easy kill, and it's useful when you have to weigh your shots and decisions carefully.<br />
<br />
4-Player Co-Op is what makes this game so immensely fun--you can pwn wave after wave if you have a team that works together and shares the drops, however once you get to the truly challenging waves it becomes a loot ninja battle for ammunition. Still, it's an awesome feature which more games of this genre should have.<br />
<br />
The music in Zombie Estate is incredible. I enjoy every note that's played throughout and it truly imbibes a sense of doom and creepiness. You really feel like you're there, in that zombie apocalypse world, defending yourself from undead ghouls. The sound effects are also implemented very well and the gunfire is great too.<br />
<br />
Replayability is another factor that is unique about this game, since you can beat it over and over and over and each time do things differently. Sure the monsters will always be in the same order, but that doesn't mean they'll always do the same things. Every wave offers a new opportunity to kick some serious zombie ass or become zombie-food--the choice is up to you.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b><img alt="Image from Zombie Estate" height="224" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550500_World/screen2.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
<b>VI. Wrap-Up<br />
</b><br />
Basically Zombie Estate set itself apart from the slew of other "zombie" titles on the XBL Indie Game Marketplace in many ways, but the key aspect is that it delivers so much for such a little asking price. 80 MSP is a steal for this game, An instant classic in terms of gameplay dynamics and the all-important fun factor, Zombie Estate proves itself time and time again especially with the 4-player Co-Op feature. With infinite replayability and challenging waves that get harder and harder as you play, this directional-shooter will provide hours of entertainment for all shooter fans out there, especially those that enjoy the low-res retro ones.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/tzyKQH04mQQ?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
Skeptical? Want to try Zombie Estate out for yourself? Visit this link to download the Free Trial and find out why everyone loves it.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Zombie Estate" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550500_World/webboxart.jpg" title="Zombie Estate" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Trial-Game-Zombie-Estate/00000000-0000-4000-8000-000058550500?cid=search">Zombie Estate Demo</a></div><br />
Remember, <i>Try Before You Buy </i>to avoid being disappointed!<br />
<br />
--Deeke777<br />
Deeke@XboxLive<br />
dek777@gmail.com<br />
[Mħ±Î©Ø®è]Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-40281885210736815992011-01-30T00:59:00.000-08:002011-03-01T07:22:31.729-08:00Review: Creed Arena<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5CLENsgiHyg/TW0Aeqq_9yI/AAAAAAAAByw/7lRkh1Rcxc8/s400/%255Bnew%255D+XBL+Indieverse+Review+Banner.jpg" width="400" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Creed Arena is a futuristic fast-paced 3D shooter that's extremely addictive and extremely entertaining. With four different game modes like Deathmatch or Survival and multiple Challenges to be completed solo, co-op, or online, Creed Arena has guaranteed replayability. I would like to thank Safari Studios for creating one of the best Indie Games on the market, and especially of the shooter genre.<b> </b><br />
<br />
<b>Creed Arena </b><sub><sup>240 MSP<br />
<hr /></sup></sub><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--nEwP-JOPWQ/TWaAirX9aMI/AAAAAAAABxI/NDg4zo-HV7M/s1600/creed+arena+gold+seal.jpg" /></div><ul><li><b> </b><b>XBLIV Rating -</b> <img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gmbXM6Nf7sU/TVzI1KZWekI/AAAAAAAABN8/suanIhz1r_s/s1600/5stars.jpg" /> <span style="background-color: #ffcc00;">GOLD</span><b> </b></li>
<li><b>Developer</b> <b>-</b> reedake2 (Safari Studios)</li>
<li><b>Genre - </b>Shooter<b><br />
</b></li>
<li><b>Release Date</b> <b>-</b> 1/1/2010 <br />
</li>
<li><b>Price - </b>240 MSP</li>
<li><b>XBL Marketplace URL </b>- <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Creed-Arena/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585503eb?cid=search">Creed Arena</a></li>
<li><b>XBL Indie Dev Site </b>- <a href="http://www.creedarena.com/">Safari Studios</a></li>
</ul><ul></ul><ul></ul><div style="text-align: left;"><i>"ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED? Become a futuristic gladiator and impress the crowds with your skills. Feed off the spectator's cheers to unleash your CROWD RAGE! Switch between top-down and over-the-shoulder camera modes. Compete in unique challenges like Collect the Kegs, and Survival. Play the campaign in solo or co-op, or go online and fight your way up the popularity chart. Gladiator, I salute you!</i>"</div> --Xbox Live Indie Games Marketplace Description<br />
<br />
<b>I. Summary</b><br />
<br />
As far as plot-lines go, <b>Creed Arena</b> is somewhat lacking--basically you are one of the Wildcats, a team of gladiators that compete not with old-fashioned medieval weapons, but with futuristic rifles and guns.<br />
You are the essential hero in the story and the main character who has entered the Creed Arena tournament in an effort to gain the confidence and the heart of the people. You fight your way through the Challenges and eventually when you reach the top rank in any one of them you are crowned Champion.<br />
<br />
What it lacks in story this game makes up for in gameplay--there is so much chaos that can ensue during a match, especially a Keg Collection match with three teams of two, or a game where Rockets are the default weapon. This game also rewards those that do well (or steal kills) by unleashing the unique Crowd Rage function which makes a gladiator into a berserking juggernaut.<br />
<br />
With the Live Multiplayer function this game becomes infinitely replayable. Although the multiplayer isn't streamlined like a retail X360 title, it's still enjoyable and you can play as much as you'd like. Local Co-Op also offers a new edge in either competitive or co-operative Challenges, and it's much better to have an actual player on your team rather than the Bots.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image from Creed Arena" height="346" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585503EB_World/screen2.jpg" width="616" /></div><br />
The graphics for this full 3D shooter are amazing for an Indie Game and are impressive even compared to some XBL Arcade Games. Fight on many well-made, graphically-enhanced maps and admire the meshes while you cut down your enemies.<br />
<br />
With 17 different maps and four different game types Creed Arena is vastly entertaining from start to finish--and really this game never ends, even after you climb to rank 1.<br />
<br />
<b>II. Game Mechanics</b><br />
<br />
This traditional gladiator arena shooter has unique features such as an arsenal of impressive and dynamic weapons to use against your foes and an engrossing playing experience with Bots as teammates and enemies. I've always enjoyed shooter games where there were Bots because it allows people to practice and to actually learn the game without getting their asses handed to them from the start. The Bots in <b>Creed Arena</b> can be aggrevating sometimes, especially if your teammates shoot you in the back (yes there is friendly-fire for all co-operative gametypes).<br />
<br />
There are four different Gladatior Teams in <b>Creed Arena</b>:<br />
<ul><li><b>The Androids</b> - These sentient cyborgs are deadly and accurate with most weapons--they are nearly unstoppable when they get ahold of the Rocket Launcher.<b> </b><b> </b></li>
</ul><b></b><br />
<ul><li><b>The Wildcats</b> - There will be some Challenges that require you to compete with a fellow teammate in order to win--during these games your fellow Wildcat can seemingly be more useful than he is during a co-op match. </li>
</ul><b></b><b></b><br />
<ul><li><b>Kremlins</b> - The Kremlins are Russians who are well versed in the art of slaughter, and the very last Challenge (Tomb of Karthus) involves a 3 on 3 deathmatch with these deadly adversaries.</li>
</ul><b></b><b> </b><br />
<ul><li><b>Death Knights</b> - The Death Knights are total badasses--they are accurate and incredibly deadly with the Shotgun or Rocket Launcher...however they're not so good -against- Rockets.</li>
</ul><br />
<b>III. Weapons/Items</b><br />
<br />
All weapons in this game have unlimited ammo, however single-shot weapons such as the Shotgun, Rocket Launcher, and secondary charge shot on the Pulse Cannon all have cooldown times.<br />
<br />
<i>Assault Rifle</i> - The default spawn rifle capable of devastating short-range attacks and long-range shots as well. fully automatic fire from two or even three teammates can overwhelm any enemy.<br />
<br />
<i>Shotgun </i>- The shotgun is the most powerful one-shot weapon other than the Rocket Launcher. It usually takes up to two shots to kill an enemy at moderate distance, but up close one-shots are lethal. It is rather useless for long-range shots, however.<br />
<br />
<i>Lightning Gun</i> - Very awkward at first, but once you understand how the weapon works it becomes quite powerful. Short-range only, accumulating shock damage per second.<br />
<br />
<i>Plasma Cannon</i> - This weapon is one of my personal favorites--it has two fire modes; a rapid-fire series of shots and a high-powered charge shot that kills in two hits. This gun is useful up close and far away, and the charged shot will launch across any level.<br />
<u><br />
</u><i>Rocket Launcher </i>- King of all guns, the Rocket Launcher has a slow cool-down rate but is capable of killing a group of enemies in one shot. Devastating close-range power as well as longe-range capabilties make this weapon the most desired frag earner out of them all.<br />
<br />
Outside of weapons there are no items or powerups to use--this game is your classic fragfest game similar to the Quake games minus the health and other drops.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image from Creed Arena" height="346" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585503EB_World/screen3.jpg" width="616" /></div><b><br />
IV. Story Line</b><br />
<br />
This game starts off with an announcer (presumably the Gladiator you play as under the Wildcats) pledging himself to win the Creed Arena tournament. His motives are to gain the crowd's favor and to win the people over so that he can overthrow the dictators that are in control.<br />
<br />
As you get farther and farther in the game and attain more and more fans, you're eventually hailed as the Champion of the Creed Arena--once you have beaten the game our hero announces to his sister that he has won the people and the time for revolution has come. Outside of this snippet of story there really isn't any reinforcement to a main quest or goal other than completing the set Challenges and accumulating more and more fans and supporters.<br />
<br />
This is one of the types of games that doesn't require an expansive story-line to be fun and awesome, however. These shooter games are mostly about the deathmatches and insane chaotic action not the intricate and complex machinations of a deep storyline--we save those things for RPG's.<br />
<br />
Play as the Wildcat and climb to glory by defeating enemies in the various game types in the various modes like Solo and Co-Op Tournaments--annihilate all the rival gladiator teams to win the tournament and become the Champion!<br />
<br />
<img alt="Image from Creed Arena" height="347" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585503EB_World/screen1.jpg" width="617" /><br />
<br />
<b>V. Unique Features</b><br />
<br />
There are a few unique features that Creed Arena possesses that aren't found in any other game of it's type--the Crowd Rage mechanic, for instance. Crowd Rage is what allows players to kill and kill--and then kill some more. <br />
<br />
To unlock this frenzied state you must gain Fans by killing enemies in creative ways--the more creative the kill, the more Fans you'll get. Multi-kills, huge damage shots, and even melee hits can gain massive amounts of fans to build your Rage meter. Once under Crowd Rage, you do more damage, jump higher, move faster--basically you're enhanced in every way to become a nearly unstoppable juggernaut of death.<br />
<br />
This game is also one of the first games to have a two-person view that incoporates both a top-view and a third-person view. Both views provide a dynamic way to play the game, however the top-view is quite challenging and is recommended for experienced players.<br />
<br />
Bots are another feature that adds a new level of gameplay, as you can practice and get better by playing against them. The game also has seventeen expansive maps each tailored to a specific gametype. <br />
<br />
There are four different gametypes in <i>Creed Arena</i>:<br />
<br />
<b>Deathmatch</b>- The standard fragfest that inspired all classic shooters out there. Can be played in either Teams or 1 on 1.<br />
<br />
<b>Survival </b> - This gametype pits you against a swarm of enemies that spawn in waves. Loosely similar to Firefight in Halo ODST in dynamics. Can be played in solo or teams.<br />
<br />
<b>Collect the Kegs</b> - Self-explanitory--the team must collect a set amount of Kegs into their zone. Kegs can be taken out of a team's zone at any time. Kills are the way to keep a team from scoring--usually 3-5 kegs collected to win. Only playable in teams.<br />
<br />
<b>Popularity</b> - Gametype that involves gaining fans by getting kills against enemies. Get a set amount of fans to win--either in teams or competitive.<br />
<br />
There is also another gametype called "Hunting", yet it only has one Challenge. Hunting is based on killing a certain amount of creatures (usually the raptors) before your teammate.<br />
<br />
Every gametype is entertaining and fun, and <b>Collect the Kegs</b> can get pretty crazy especially if it's the 3 teams of 2 Challenge. My personal favorite though is <b>Deathmatch</b>--simple killing is always the best.<br />
<br />
<b>VI. Wrap-Up</b><br />
<br />
It's easy to see why <b>Creed Arena</b> is a great Indie Game, especially in the shooter genre. The game itself has many unique features and gametypes to keep even the most dedicated of gamers entertained. This fantastic gladiator battle will go on and on over Xbox Live and will give players all around the world the opportunity to rise to the top of the global scoreboards.<br />
<br />
Combined with all the features, the amazing 3D environments and character graphics, and with the amazing replayability that's guaranteed with Solo, Co-op, and Live gameplay, <b>Creed Arena</b> is a steal at a mere 240 MSP. This game is truly a gem in the XBLIG Marketplace and is a quality fragfest that everyone can enjoy.<br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
<b></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/AqXFkDQ5gWY?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><b><br />
</b><br />
<b>VII. Developer Info</b><br />
<br />
Safari Studios is the development team behind this ultimate XBLIG shooter; namely reedake2. This game studio has an official website for their game, <b>Creed Arena</b>:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="http://www.alliancedatacom.com/images/home-icon.gif" src="http://www.alliancedatacom.com/images/home-icon.gif" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.creedarena.com/">Creed Arena's Webpage</a></div><br />
The website itself features a contact page where you can speak to the developers themselves, along with screenshots of the game and a link to the official Xbox Live Indie Games Marketplace page where you can download the Free Trial or Full Game for <b>Creed Arena</b>.<br />
<br />
Safari Studios can also be found on Twitter and Facebook, below are their official links, respectively:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="http://www.in5d.com/images/social-twitter_logo.gif" src="http://www.in5d.com/images/social-twitter_logo.gif" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.tiny.cc/CreedArenaTwitter">Safari Studios on Twitter</a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="http://www.ulm.edu/socialmedia/images/facebook_logo.jpg" src="http://www.ulm.edu/socialmedia/images/facebook_logo.jpg" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.tiny.cc/CreedArenaFB">Safari Studios Facebook Page</a></div><br />
Well that's about it! I'd further like to thank Safari Studios for developing this awesome game and redefining the entire shooter genre on XBL Indie Games. This game is fantastic and higly rating for all fans of shooter games--it's sure to please!<br />
<br />
Skeptical? Want to try <b>Creed Arena</b> out for yourself? Visit this link for a Free Trial to this amazing shooter:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Creed Arena" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585503EB_World/webboxart.jpg" title="Creed Arena" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Creed-Arena/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802585503eb?cid=search&purchase=1&DownloadType=GameDemo">Creed Arena Free Demo</a> </div><br />
--Deeke777<br />
dek777@gmail.com<br />
[Mħ±Î©Ø®è]Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-78826546174471728912011-01-28T13:30:00.000-08:002011-03-01T07:24:40.947-08:00Review: The Endless Abyss<div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-OuEdnHA0PqM/TWz_iW7mn9I/AAAAAAAABys/uiM-br5wTD0/s400/%255Bnew%255D+XBL+Indieverse+Review+Banner.jpg" width="400" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In this installment of XBL Indieverse Reviews I'll be focusing on one of my favorite XBLIG RPG's "The Endless Abyss". This game was also made by Rickettz Studios, the development team behind another awesome Xbox Indie RPG called <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Star-Cross/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d80258550448?cid=search">Star Cross</a>. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><b>The Endless Abyss<sub><sup> 80 MSP</sup></sub></b></div><hr /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p2tZ8uvpRfA/TWMkbhH6xUI/AAAAAAAABwM/0mlpNw-Elxo/s1600/The+Endless+Abyss+Gold+Seal.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><ul><li><b>XBLIV Rating - </b><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gmbXM6Nf7sU/TVzI1KZWekI/AAAAAAAABN8/suanIhz1r_s/s1600/5stars.jpg" /> <span style="background-color: yellow;">GOLD</span></li>
<li><b>Developer</b> <b>-</b> Rickettz Studios (Angel of Osmond<b>)<br />
</b></li>
<li><b>Release Date</b> <b>-</b> 8/26/2010</li>
<li><b>Price - </b>80 MSP</li>
<li><b>Genre - </b> RPG</li>
<li><b>Value</b> - High </li>
<li><b>Est. Completion Time</b> - 5 Hours</li>
<li><b>XBL Marketplace URL </b>- <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/The-Endless-Abyss/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d80258550626?cid=search">The Endless Abyss</a></li>
<li><b>Developer Site - </b><a href="http://www.rickettzstudios.webs.com/">Rickettz Studios Webpage</a><b><br />
</b></li>
</ul> "<i>The Endless Abyss, a tale of one warrior and an entire world to explore and defend. In this Action Role Playing Game adventure, take on beasts, wizards and bandits as the player traverses all four corners of the land known as the continent. Utilize swords, spells, bows and quick fingers to stay alive and beat the enemy to dust</i>." <br />
<br />
--Xbox Live Indie Games Marketplace Description</div><br />
<i>Highly Recommended for all fans of the classic Zelda series!</i><br />
<br />
<b>The Endless Abyss</b> is one of the personally highest recommended Xbox Live Indie Games on the market, especially for RPG-lovers and those that enjoy low-res adventure gaming. This game is also an <b>XBLIG's SELECT</b> choice because of it's highly entertaining gameplay and its impressive game mechanics as well as many other features.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aFi6eHQzLTI/TUg-MQhjdLI/AAAAAAAAA0c/iTrPqbtEt-A/s200/New+Gold+Seal.jpg" width="200" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
Games with the official "<b>XBL Indieverse SELECT"</b> seal are selections made by me, tailored to gamers with similar tastes in gaming. This game is truly an underrated gem in the sparse RPG marketplace. All games with the official seal are rated 5-Stars and are the quality games that are worth playing and buying--keep in mind that these are personal reviews and opinions, and if you don't share the same tastes you'll want to Try Before You Buy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><ul></ul><b>The Endless Abyss</b> is a classic RPG adventure set in medieval times--the times of magic and powerful ancient relics. The story is quite cryptic at first, and it's mystery builds the suspense and inspires players to continue onwards. With a continent full of NPC's, castles, kingdoms, and areas to explore, <b>The Endless Abyss</b> provides hours worth of entertainment for all gamers alike.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image from The Endless Abyss" height="339" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550626_World/screen3.jpg" width="602" /></div><br />
<b>I. Summary</b><u><b><br />
</b></u><br />
<br />
What makes this game an instant classic is how it's set up--the overall game mechanics, such as fighting, are different from the traditional turn-based combat we've come to expect from RPG's: instead this game utilizes an active fighting system that allows players to strategically fight monsters from afar or move in close for the killing blow.<br />
<br />
<b>II. Game Mechanics</b><br />
<br />
Players will enjoy both the Magick and the Melee fighting, along with the smattering of weapons and items that are awaiting to be found in the expansive continent. Magick, even at low levels, is incredibly useful, and both Health and Soul (which is basically like MP) rely on respective "leafs" that have three grades of quality--Leaf, Root, and Extract. There are destructive Magick spells and healing spells as well, and the spells are your basic elemental spells--there are four different grades of Magick that unlock after certain levels, and mostly these spells are unique in their ability.<br />
<br />
Another very unique element of this game is the Stamina bar, which is affected by every single swing of the sword/pull of the bow. There is no way to run in this game--be assured, if there were, that your Stamina would drain way too fast and it'd leave you defenseless during battle. When your Stamina is fully drained, you cannot strike--but you can still move to run around.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image from The Endless Abyss" height="338" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550626_World/screen2.jpg" width="602" /></div><br />
This game reflects Angel of Osmond's original flair for gaming in many aspects, especially in the story-line and overall game system. If you've played his previous RPG <b>Star Cross</b>, then this game will seem quite faimiliar to you even though SC was a turn-based futuristic RPG and TEA is a medieval hero's journey.<br />
<br />
<b>III. Weapons / Items</b><br />
<br />
The weapons of TEA are focused on Bows, Swords, and Tomes--tomes being quite useful for Mage characters. A character can hold two weapons at one time, in any combination. Later on, when you start to earn middle to top tier weapons, these combinations can be incredibly strategic. <br />
<br />
Bows at first only stun enemies and creatures with every five shots and don't actually do damage, but in the middle of the game you can earn the Raven Bow, which does an amazing 2 damage plus stun attacks. <br />
<br />
The Swords in TEA are the most powerful melee weapons, and the top-tier sword, the Onyx Blade, does an incredible 3 dmg per swing. Swords are balanced in that the higher the damage is the more Stamina that is used per strike. <br />
<br />
Tomes add Soul points to a character, and equipping two of these adds a considerable amount of Soul points. There are about four or five weapons of each type in the game.<br />
<br />
If a player is faced with a boss that is too powerful, hit (X) to activate your "Power Bar" (located on the bottom right-hand side of the screen), which functions in a very unique way:<br />
<br />
"<span dir="ltr"><i>The power button only makes your next physical attack more powerful. While in power mode, you also take half damage from all attacks. In the case of 1 damage, you take 0. As well, the power mode ends when either you make a physical attack or the gauge runs out. These two traits (powerful attack and damage reduction) make it useful for either a mage or warrior</i>."</span><br />
<span dir="ltr"> </span><br />
<span dir="ltr"> --Explained by the Developer, <b>Angel of Osmond</b> </span> <br />
<br />
Correctly using your power meter can mean the difference between life and death in some boss battles as well as areas that overwhelm the player with monsters. The game has fair progression so you won't have to necessarily grind XP for hours to attain the strength needed to get past the bosses, however you'll still want to level up in a consistent manner as you gain more Magick spells with higher levels.<br />
<br />
<b>IV. Story Line (Synopsis--Spoiler Free!)</b><br />
<br />
TEA has an incredible story line. At first we know next to nothing about anything--the world around us, our character, etc. As we progress we learn that our King, Osmond, has ordered our hero to find three relics that are needed to "help keep peace throughout the kingdom". Our hero crosses mountains, forests and deserts in search of these ancient relics, and once they are found we learn that things are not what they seem.<br />
<br />
These supposed poweful artifacts have caused nothing but turmoil and suffering for those that have held them. Some even say that they are cursed. Our hero must fight evil beyond the simple creatures and bandits that roam the continent--he must face the evil witch-sorceress and prevent King Osmond from inadverdantly opening a gateway to The Endless Abyss.<br />
<br />
There are many boss battles in this game, especially at the end where the epic struggle between good and evil is concluded. <br />
<br />
Will the dark lord Isaac walk the mortal realm again, or will you keep him imprisoned in the void?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image from The Endless Abyss" height="338" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550626_World/screen1.jpg" width="602" /></div><br />
<b>V. Unique Features<br />
</b><br />
<br />
TEA has a slew of unique features from the interesting story dynamics to the expansive combat system and magick structure. Quests in TEA are the standard "King orders hero to this location, hero must find item, hero then returns item" formula, yet there are other side-quests to fulfill as well. <br />
<br />
One main side-quest is the Adventurer's Guild, and it is only through this Guild that you can earn the most powerful top-tier weapons. The questing is well worth the meticulous collecting of items--that's right, every "quest" in the Adventurer's Guild is a simple "collect this item" task. Sometimes you'll have to spend quite a bit finding certain items, however the drops are plausible--you won't have a Spider drop a Claw, since spiders don't have claws--Foxes drop claws, etc.<br />
<br />
Items can be found in chests, from monster drops, or bought in general stores--all item drops, including chests, are random. You can save at any time in this game, but fast-travel is not an option--you must find the Globe that brings you to the Global Map. There is no mini-map, yet the Global Map is sufficient to show the various villages and kingdoms throughout the land.<br />
<br />
<b>VI. Wrap-Up</b><br />
<br />
Overall, TEA is an excellent addition to your RPG Indie Game collection. The only bad thing about the game itself is that it has no re-play value--there is no New Game+ feature, so once you beat it you're pretty much done with it (unless you're me and want to see how high the level cap goes XD).<br />
<br />
However that's not to say that the experience up until that point won't be filled with entertaining battles and interesting story line lore. TEA is an awesome homage to all the old classic RPG's that we've played in our youth, and I'm proud to rate it 5 Stars.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://0.gvt0.com/vi/8MhWeG_dttg/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/8MhWeG_dttg&fs=1&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/8MhWeG_dttg&fs=1&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object></div> <b> </b><br />
<b>VII. Developer Information</b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://www.gameassembly.com//images/stories/Rickettz Studios Logo(3).jpg" height="200" src="http://www.gameassembly.com//images/stories/Rickettz%20Studios%20Logo%283%29.jpg" width="300" /></div><u><br />
Rickettz Studios</u> was founded in 2008 and is solo-operated by <i>Angel of Osmond</i>, the developer responsible for a few awesome XBL Indie Titles such as <b>The Endless Abyss</b>, <b>Star Cross</b>, <b>Nova Lancer</b> and the not-yet-released games <b>Arc Lancer</b> and <b>Sol Intelligence</b>. For more information on these and upcoming titles from <u>Rickettz Studios</u>, and about the studio itself, visit these links:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="http://www.faithhousemanhattan.org/.a/6a00d8341c60b453ef0147e12932f3970b-50wi" src="http://www.faithhousemanhattan.org/.a/6a00d8341c60b453ef0147e12932f3970b-50wi" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tiny.cc/RickettzFB">Rickettz Studios' Facebook Page</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="http://www.coldplace.co.uk/images/webvlv/logo-youtube.gif" src="http://www.coldplace.co.uk/images/webvlv/logo-youtube.gif" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tiny.cc/OsmondYouTube">Angel of Osmond's YouTube Channel</a></div><br />
Be sure to follow me on Twitter (@Mr_Deeke) for updates on news, trailers, and reviews for upcoming <u>Rickettz Studios</u> titles!<br />
<br />
That's it for now! Happy gaming and I hope all of you enjoy TEA as much as I did--at 80 MSP it's hardly something you could regret. Below is a link to the Free Trial for TEA.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="The Endless Abyss" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550626_World/webboxart.jpg" title="The Endless Abyss" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/The-Endless-Abyss/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d80258550626?cid=search&purchase=1&DownloadType=GameDemo">The Endless Abyss Free Demo</a></div><br />
--Deeke777<br />
dek777@gmail.com<br />
[Mħ±Î©Ø®è]Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-87976914726600175132011-01-24T12:34:00.000-08:002011-03-01T07:26:03.295-08:00New Releases: Jan. 18-21st<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9ay3pxD8iLk/TWz7iYnTU1I/AAAAAAAAByg/ci-58iOmt9I/s400/%255Bnew%255D+XBL+Indieverse+New+Releases+Banner.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
<br />
This installment of XBL Indieverse New Releases will be a multiple grouping of various newly published Indie Games from January 18th to the 21st.<br />
<br />
Over the past two weeks there have been a number of new Indie Games introduced to the Xbox Live Marketplace, however I'll be focusing on those that are among the best--at least in my opinion. Below are miniature reviews of these titles along with information and links.<br />
<br />
<b>Aban Hawkins & The 1000 Spikes</b> <sub>80 MSP</sub><br />
<div align="center"><hr align="center" size="2" width="100%" /></div><img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550780_World/xboxboxart.jpg" alt="Aban Hawkins & the 1000 SPIKES" class="boxart" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550780_World/xboxboxart.jpg" title="Aban Hawkins & the 1000 SPIKES" /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><ul type="disc"><li><b>XBLIV Rating -</b> <img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RS0iseYNMN4/TVzI1LqPRKI/AAAAAAAABOA/98MhUKX63GE/s1600/4stars.jpg" /></li>
<li><b>Developer</b> <b>-</b> JPN 8bits fanatic</li>
<li><b>Genre - </b>Platformer / Action & Adventure</li>
<li><b>Release Date</b> <b>-</b> 1/18/2011</li>
<li><b>Price - </b>80 MSP</li>
<li><b>XBL Marketplace URL -</b> <a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Aban-Hawkins-the-1000-SPIKES/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d80258550780?cid=search">Aban Hawkins & 1000 Spikes</a></li>
</ul>"<i>Aban Hawkins & the 1000 SPIKES" is an 8-bit retro style Hardest Extremest Craziest Platform Action Puzzle Adventure. Simple & intuitive rules. Elaborate level design. Various fierce traps, traps, traps! Return to the Golden Years of Video Game. No one can BEAT this game...except YOU!!</i>"<br />
--Xbox Live Marketplace Description<u></u><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550780_World/screen2.jpg" alt="Image from Aban Hawkins & the 1000 SPIKES" height="224" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550780_World/screen2.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
This game is a must-have for all Platformer fans out there--especially those that enjoy the classic elements that go into the old games that we spent our youth playing in quarter-slot arcade machines. The overall look of it is <i>Indiana Jones</i> crossed with <i>Super Mario Bros.</i> further spliced with the original <i>Pitfall</i>--and believe me, that's a compliment.<u><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550780_World/screen3.jpg" alt="Image from Aban Hawkins & the 1000 SPIKES" height="224" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550780_World/screen3.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
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The general object of the game is simple--to get past various obstacles and to avoid the deadly blood-covered spikes. Failure is part of the game, and get used to dying--with a gigantic pool of a thousand plus lives, you'll have to devote a few dozen of them to experimenting in how to complete the goal, sometimes having to do tedious trial and error sessions.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550780_World/screen4.jpg" alt="Image from Aban Hawkins & the 1000 SPIKES" height="224" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550780_World/screen4.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
Aban Hawkins' is also part puzzler, as to complete the goal, you'll have to think outside the box to get past obstacles and such--don't worry though, at it's heart this game is a platformer through and through.<br />
What makes this game unique is that you use what appears to be throwing knives to attack foes, and that there are multiple dynamics to jumping--high jumps and normal jumps, etc. Another awesome unique feature is the ability to save your game progress at any time, unlike the early game systems that would lose all that precious gameplay time once the console was turned off. Kill foes, move blocks, cross obstacles and jump across chasms in this exciting Platformer that will easily entertain all gamers.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585506D0_World/webboxart.jpg" alt="The TEMPURA of the DEAD" height="200" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585506D0_World/webboxart.jpg" title="The TEMPURA of the DEAD" width="141" /></div> <br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://bit.ly/f2MHnp"> Tempura of the Dead (XBL Marketplace)</a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585506D0_World/screen2.jpg" alt="Image from The TEMPURA of the DEAD" height="223" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/585506D0_World/screen2.jpg" width="400" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><ul><li style="text-align: center;"><b>XBLIG </b><b>Ra</b><b>ting - </b><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RS0iseYNMN4/TVzI1LqPRKI/AAAAAAAABOA/98MhUKX63GE/s1600/4stars.jpg" /></li>
</ul>You might noticed that the developer of this game, <b>JPN 8bits fanatic</b>, is the same Indie Game Developer that brought us <b>The Tempura Of The Dead</b>--another classically-themed RPG/Platformer hybrid--think the old Shinobi game for NES but only being able to select two characters instead of just the ninja. It is highly recommended to check out Tempura if you enjoy Aban Hawkins, especially if you're a die-hard Platformer fan. Tempura has a slightly steep price of 240 MSP, but Aban Hawkins is only 80 MSP--worth every cent, too. Tempura will be your better choice, however, if you are a veteran of 8-bit gaming and enjoy fun games that can be replayed without boredom.<br />
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Remember to try before you buy--as with every game featured on the Xbox Live Marketplace, there are Trial Games and Demos so you can see if you'd enjoy the game before you buy.<br />
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<b>Solar Struggle: Survival</b> <sub><sup>80 MSP</sup></sub><br />
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<img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550784_World/xboxboxart.jpg" alt="Solar Struggle: Survival" class="boxart" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550784_World/xboxboxart.jpg" title="Solar Struggle: Survival" /><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_30lYyl5dolU/TUhA7nYafWI/AAAAAAAAAzs/nr61-pmTIaE/s1600/4stars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><ul><li><b>XBLIV Rating - </b><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RS0iseYNMN4/TVzI1LqPRKI/AAAAAAAABOA/98MhUKX63GE/s1600/4stars.jpg" /></li>
<li><b>Developer -</b> Z Software</li>
<li><b>Genre -</b> Space Shooter</li>
<li><b>Release Date -</b> 1/19/201</li>
<li><b>Price -</b> 80 MS<b>P</b></li>
<li><b>XBL Marketplace URL - </b><a href="http://www.blogger.com/%20http://bit.ly/ebXWCD">Solar Struggle Survival</a><a href="http://bit.ly/ebXWCD"></a></li>
</ul><i>"You're just after the pure action? Solar Struggle: Survival throws you in the midst of a whole lot of enemies! Will you keep up till the end, beating wave after wave of enemies?</i>"<br />
--Xbox Live Marketplace Description<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550784_World/screen4.jpg" alt="Image from Solar Struggle: Survival" height="224" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550784_World/screen4.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
Z Software, the very same game studio that brought us the first iteration of <b>Solar Struggle</b>, now brings us the next chapter in the series--Solar Struggle: Survival. Normally I don't give 5-star ratings to any other genre than RPGs, but this game has to be the best sci-fi space shooter I've ever played--especially in the Indie Games section.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550784_World/screen3.jpg" alt="Image from Solar Struggle: Survival" height="224" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550784_World/screen3.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
What makes Solar Struggle: Survival so awesome is the overall game flow--it has a natural feel to it that allows for streamlined gameplay and is incredibly addictive once you get the hang of it. Fly through space and destroy the endless hoardes of space marauders who want one thing--to kill you. Destroy them with lock-on missiles or steady your hand and take aim with the pulse lasers, and pay attention to the internal radar map that displays all craft nearby. The dynamic HUD is incredibly responsive and even shows you what direction you're being engaged from as well as cool-down bars on the side of the crosshairs to let you know when you can fire a missle or laser once more.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550784_World/screen2.jpg" alt="Image from Solar Struggle: Survival" height="224" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550784_World/screen2.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
Perhaps the most interesting feature of this game is the XP leveling system--once you get a certain amount of XP you level up, just like in any RPG game--and you get better powerups and equipment such as more powerful lasers, a higher quantity of missles, etc. You can also string kills together in combinations to earn more XP and Score. At its core this game is similar to any space shooter, however it is the responsive HUD and scoring system that provide for an addictive and highly enjoyable shooter.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550784_World/screen1.jpg" alt="Image from Solar Struggle: Survival" height="225" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550784_World/screen1.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
Solar Struggle: Survival offers many game maps and scenarios, but its basically a dogfight in space between you and the evil marauders that want to kill you. This game also provides incentives by playing in certain ways, improving styles and completing goals to unlock awards--these awards further offer more powerful lasers and such, upgrades and powerups to the ship itself. With the award function, the game becomes much more enjoyable when you're re-playing it.<br />
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<b>Antipole </b><sup>240 MSP</sup><br />
<div align="center"><hr align="center" size="2" width="100%" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550786_World/xboxboxart.jpg" alt="Antipole" class="boxart" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550786_World/xboxboxart.jpg" title="Antipole" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><ul type="disc"><li><b>XBLIV Rating - </b><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CuAUBmENzxI/TVzI1aqGtII/AAAAAAAABOE/IWq-kVQIYhY/s1600/3stars.jpg" /></li>
<li><b>Developer -</b> Saturnine Games LLC</li>
<li><b>Genre -</b> Platformer</li>
<li><b>Release Date -</b> 1/21/2011</li>
<li><b>Price -</b> 240 MSP</li>
<li><b>XBL Marketplace URL - </b><a href="http://bit.ly/g5XNLX">Antipole</a></li>
<li><b>Developer Website -</b> <a href="http://www.saturninegames.com/site/">Saturnine Games Home</a></li>
</ul>"<i>Wield your powers of gravity manipulation to fend off a robot invasion. Perform impossible jumps, destroy enemies, and solve puzzles by bending gravity. Explore 20 challenging levels, 2 difficulty settings, and bonus unlockable content</i>."<br />
--Xbox Live Indie Games Marketplace Description<br />
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Saturine Games LLC</b> is quite an interesting Indie Game Developer studio--it has created a title on not only XBL Indie Games but on Nintendo DSiWare as well, making them a cross-over studio that focuses on more than one Indie gameset. Their DSiWare game, Cosmos X-2, is a space-age shooter that incorporates first person views as well as a third person shoot-em-up adventure--this game is quite different than their XBL release, however.<br />
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Saturine Games has also announced another upcoming title to be released on the XBL Indie Games Marketplace: it's dubbed as "Turtle Tale" and has only been announced through a promotional game cover--no details were released yet on this future project.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550786_World/screen3.jpg" alt="Image from Antipole" height="223" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550786_World/screen3.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
Antipole, Saturine Games LLC's first Platformer, is quite inventive and unique as it incorporates gravity transversal which allows players to think outside the box to progress onwards throughout the game.<br />
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Conventionally, platformers are side-scrollers that have one main objective: to get to the next level or stage. To do that, however, is the challenge--many foes lie await in your way along with deadly obstacles and lethal drops. Players must jump, evade, kill and most importantly, plan their attempts or failure is guaranteed. Antipole takes a conventional Platformer and flips it over on it's head--literally.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550786_World/screen2.jpg" alt="Image from Antipole" height="223" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550786_World/screen2.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
By giving gamers the ability to use ceilings to get powerups and to progress onwards throughout levels, Antipole has earned a passage in one of the most original platformers I've ever seen in an Indie Game. I can't help but to be reminded of Castlevania's Symphony of the Night, especially when the entire game map is inverted and turned upside down--Antipole further challenges gamers to think differently and abstractly all while enjoying all the themes and elements you'd come to expect from any platformer game.<br />
This sci-fi side-scroller has a loose storyline that progresses as you get farther and farther throughout the game, but the mechanics and overall goal are the same--kill foes, get past obstacles, get to the next stage.<br />
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Antipole also has great color composition and style--the menus are amazing and the characters, meters, power ups, and tokens are animated very well. Another unique element of this game is its unlockables--usually most games use this as an incentive to buy the game, however Antipole offers a slew of "awardments" that can unlock in-game content as well as power-ups for your character.<br />
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We've seen this same concept take place in many Indie Games, and to me, it's a unique and fun replacement for Achievements and Awards found in retail Xbox Live Arcade and retail Xbox 360 games.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550786_World/screen4.jpg" alt="Image from Antipole" height="225" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550786_World/screen4.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
It is highly reccommended to all those that enjoy minor puzzler/unique Platformers, especially futuristically-themed ones. Try the Trial Game for free--I've played it many times over now, as its a great game to blow off some steam and have fun by flying up onto the ceiling--if you're skeptical, yet I find myself as a gamer who enjoys RPGs and not Platformers yet I had quite an enjoyable time with this game.<br />
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<b> Zombie Turkey Outbreak </b><sub><sup>80 MSP<hr /></sup></sub><br />
<img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550787_World/xboxboxart.jpg" alt="Zombie Turkey Outbreak" class="boxart" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550787_World/xboxboxart.jpg" title="Zombie Turkey Outbreak" /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><ul><li><b>XBLIV Rating - </b><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CuAUBmENzxI/TVzI1aqGtII/AAAAAAAABOE/IWq-kVQIYhY/s1600/3stars.jpg" /></li>
<li><b>Developer -</b> Reggie S</li>
<li><b>Genre -</b> First-Person Shooter</li>
<li><b>Release Date -</b> 1/21/2011</li>
<li><b>Price -</b> 80 MSP</li>
<li><b>XBL Marketplace URL -</b> <a href="http://tiny.cc/ZombieTurkeyXBL">Zombie Turkey Outbreak</a><b><br />
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<li><b>Developer Website - </b><a href="http://www.strangegamesstudios.com/">Strange Games Studios</a><b><br />
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</ul>"<i>Driven mad after losing his farm to foreclosure, local turkey farmer J. Snydles plots his revenge on an unsuspecting town. Using steroids, toxic waste, and a small amount of energy drink, Snydles concocts a brew that turns his turkeys into mindless minions. On the brink of panic, returning war hero Bret Star must save his town before it's too late. Zombie Turkeys Must Die!!</i>"<br />
--Xbox Live Marketplace Description<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550787_World/screen2.jpg" alt="Image from Zombie Turkey Outbreak" height="224" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550787_World/screen2.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
This game is a gem for all of those that enjoy FPS games--big or small. It's similar in style and function to <b>Wasteland 2033</b>, yet the graphics in <b>Zombie Turkey Outbreak</b> are superior. The guns look like they're straight out of Modern Warfare and it imbibes a sense of superiority...until you're overrun by a trampling onslaught of Zombie Turkeys, that is.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550787_World/screen3.jpg" alt="Image from Zombie Turkey Outbreak" height="224" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550787_World/screen3.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
The game's HUD is pretty basic yet it is very useful--the tactical map for instance is quite dynamic--showing layers, enemies, and the player's location as well as powerups, health, and ammunition for various weapons. The weapons are something akin to Modern Warfare as the pistol has infinite ammunition but is less powerful--each gun is quite balanced in every way and the crosshairs are very accurate.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550787_World/screen4.jpg" alt="Image from Zombie Turkey Outbreak" height="224" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550787_World/screen4.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
ZTO is definitely worth the very cheap price tag attached to it--80 MSP is quite the steal for a game like this. Sure it gets old if you're trying to play it seriously, but it is good to get away from a frustrating part in another game--mindless turkey killing is great for everyone.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img _fcksavedurl="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550787_World/screen1.jpg" alt="Image from Zombie Turkey Outbreak" height="225" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550787_World/screen1.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
The game is basically a survivalist FPS that gets harder and harder as the game progresses--eventually being quite overwhelming unless you have the right weaponry. With an interactive enemy count on the HUD, you can hunt down those stray turkeys or let them wander and collect ammunition/health powerups before the next round begins. Overall, this game is a must-have for a FPS lover, and is a great buy for even someone that has a passing interest in them.<br />
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Well, that about wraps it up; another few weeks and there will be even more releases in the Indie Games Marketplace. I'm looking forward to Star Cross II and the new upcoming title from TnT Gaming set in the Trinity Wars universe, yet these games in this article offer a good time-churner until those games come out.<br />
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--Deeke@Xbox Live<br />
Deeke777@GameAssembly.com<br />
[Mħ±Î©Ø®è]Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-32321732009571619692011-01-21T17:20:00.000-08:002011-03-01T07:27:36.822-08:00Preview: Star Cross II<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-CLL8eXQTDYU/TWz7i6yVm7I/AAAAAAAAByk/okl3tDVYQXA/s400/%255Bnew%255D+XBL+Indieverse+Preview+Banner.jpg" width="400" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>Featured on XBL Indieverse Preview is the futuristic RPG saga <b>Star Cross II</b>, the next exciting title in the sci-fi universe of <b>Star Cross</b>.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kEbE0uJ4XMQ/TWMpm2pau6I/AAAAAAAABwQ/bx2K_b68mbM/s1600/Star+Cross+II.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kEbE0uJ4XMQ/TWMpm2pau6I/AAAAAAAABwQ/bx2K_b68mbM/s320/Star+Cross+II.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div><br />
Officially announced by Indie Game Developer <i>Angel of Osmond</i> at <b>Rickettz Studios </b>earlier this month, SCII is in early dev stages right now. This sequel to the futuristic planet-crossing adventure looks to be very promising with new features, skills, characters and new worlds to explore.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-crB6IpGUJmU/TWMp1uGP_xI/AAAAAAAABwU/4gzmGsVQs1w/s1600/Star+Cross+II+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-crB6IpGUJmU/TWMp1uGP_xI/AAAAAAAABwU/4gzmGsVQs1w/s320/Star+Cross+II+4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Overall, <b>Star Cross II</b> is the first game with many improvements and a new set of characters--yet the game stays the same at its core; it's a turn-based RPG that can literally last for hours. The game is still in development and is a long ways away from Peer Review status--<i>Angel of Osmond</i> is currently working on two other titles--<b>Sol Intelligence</b> and <b>Arc Lancer</b> (the sequel to <b>Nova Lancer</b>)--so the game may not come out for a few months or so. When new information is available I'll post it on my Tweets and in an article on my Blog.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://i.ytimg.com/vi/f3E_LwlU_xE/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/f3E_LwlU_xE?f=videos&c=google-webdrive-0&app=youtube_gdata" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/f3E_LwlU_xE?f=videos&c=google-webdrive-0&app=youtube_gdata" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object></div><br />
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For more information on Star Cross II, visit Rickettz Studios Development Site at:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="http://www.alliancedatacom.com/images/home-icon.gif" src="http://www.alliancedatacom.com/images/home-icon.gif" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.rickettzstudios.webs.com/">Rickettz Studios Website</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Star Cross" class="boxart" src="http://download.xbox.com/content/xna/assets/58550448_World/xboxboxart.jpg" title="Star Cross" /><br />
<a href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Star-Cross/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d80258550448?cid=search">Try the Free Demo for the original Star Cross! </a></div></div><br />
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Those that are interested should be sure to Subscribe to <a href="http://tiny.cc/OsmondYouTube">AngelofOsmond's YouTube Channel</a> for more trailers and updates about this and other exciting game titles from <b>Rickettz Studios</b>!<br />
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--Deeke777<br />
dek777@gmail.com<br />
[Mħ±Î©Ø®è]Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3590438797908290593.post-83462376064847915242011-01-16T16:29:00.000-08:002011-02-25T11:43:26.003-08:00Introduction to XBL Indie Games<a href="http://i695.photobucket.com/albums/vv319/DeekeS777/XNA%20Game%20Studios/folder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="121" src="http://i695.photobucket.com/albums/vv319/DeekeS777/XNA%20Game%20Studios/folder.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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My first post in this blog will focus more-so on an introduction to what Indie Games are and why I enjoy them so much. For those of you who aren't familiar with what the acronym XBLIG means, Xbox Live Indie Games are games made by gamers, for gamers--amateur gamers like you and me who go above and beyond to create fantastic slices of game history for us to try and buy on the XBL Marketplace.<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;">Using complex game programs like XNA Games Studio, these gamers have the chance to make their own amateur "game studio", and to work as hard and as long as they'd like on a certain title. Upon publication, developers actually earn monetary gain from the cash-value of the MSP you used to buy their game--yet Microsoft gets a percentage (of course). </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">This earning money for making quality games gives the developers a chance to see what its like in the real game industry--in a controlled and simulated environment, but nonetheless they are creating user-generated content, publishing it, gaining acclaim and earning profit...hopefully.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i695.photobucket.com/albums/vv319/DeekeS777/XNA%20Game%20Studios/xna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://i695.photobucket.com/albums/vv319/DeekeS777/XNA%20Game%20Studios/xna.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
Membership to XNA Studios comes with an annual subscription fee, and more details can be found on their site.<br />
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All XBLIG are priced moderately, ranging from 80 MSP to 400 MSP--yet they never climb higher than the latter amount, and are usually fair in their price according to game-play time and other aspects. I primarily enjoy the RPG genre of the Indie Games, yet there are all kinds of genres each with their own unique and fun games.<br />
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That's all for now--that brief introduction into what XBLIG's are all about and how they function to serve as a jumping point for many people's professional careers.<br />
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--Deeke777<br />
[Mħ±Î©Ø®è ]<br />
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<a href="http://i695.photobucket.com/albums/vv319/DeekeS777/XNA%20Game%20Studios/folder.jpg"></a>Deeke777http://www.blogger.com/profile/15716288909019691240noreply@blogger.com2