The Game Breaker

The Beatles: Rock Band

2009-09-10T16:05:00.002-04:00

So last night I was able to get my hands on the latest installment in the Rock Band franchise: The Beatles Rock Band. I have to say, I think this is the best game in the franchise. the games soundtrack consists of 45 songs. A little small for my taste, but still the list was filled with many great titles. It also introduces a story element where you can play through some of the historical highlights of the band's history. My only complaint is it spent at least 3 levels for you to finish the abbey road segment of the bands history. Abbey Road was fun, it was just way too long for me. But overall, I have to admit, This is a game for beatles fans, and rock band lovers alike. I highly suggest this game should be picked up A.S.A.P.

KOTOR + Direct2drive = Win

2009-09-07T21:18:00.004-04:00

Out of all of the announcements made at PAX this may be one of the things that made my day a lot better. According to some of the fellows at Bioware, Knights of the Old Republic is now available to download on direct2drive.com for a mere 10 bucks. If by any chance you can register for the the Star Wars: The Old Republic community (and can wait until September 18), you can get a 25% discount on the game! Though, if you were lucky enough to head on down to PAX this, you may have been one of the few to get a free copy thanks to some of the guys giving out download codes......

Wii Games getting better?

2009-09-05T09:50:00.004-04:00

Morning everyone! I found something interesting in Yahoo News this morning. Now, I know this isn't a very reliable source since sometimes they have tips on how to improve your relationship by eating goat cheese or something like that.

According to this article: http://videogames.yahoo.com/events/plugged-in/wii-games-are-getting-better-critics-say/1349860 Wii games are performing well. While it may be true in some cases, COD:WAW is considered by fans to be mediocre at best.

It also talks a little about Wii Sports Resort being a top seller. I have no doubt that's the case. I recently got a copy and it's pretty good. I like simulated three point shoot out and using a sword. The sword play will come in handy for the next Zelda game. So, the Wii motion plus feature it pretty dang sweet. I like the mini games, too. Then again, I really need better hand-eye coordination.

Still, take this article for what it's worth. Developers may have figured out what to do with the Wii. But, it remains to be seen what they can so.

Review: Impossible - Iron Chef America

2009-09-01T15:32:00.001-04:00

Iron Chef America could possibly be one of the greatest culinary competitions in the United States today. Iron Chef America: Supreme Cuisine on the Wii? Well, that's a whole other story. Join Braeden as he chops, slices, mixes, and plates his way through this game.

Madcatz's latest invention!!!!!

2009-08-28T18:20:00.003-04:00

It's...

...a guitar. A Guitar Hero controller.

BUT WAIT! This one is made of wood! Yes, wood. Which means that it handles exactly like a real guitar!...

...and it drains the pocket like one too...

Personally, I think this looks like a very impressive gadget, and it will certainly bring the experience of playing Guitar Hero one step close to the experience of playing a real guitar!

However, for the realistic $300 price-tag that it charges...

I'd rather buy a real guitar, personally. At least then you're doing something productive.

Halo ODST, Accidental Release

2009-08-28T18:17:00.005-04:00

Apparently a handful of lucky gamers in France got their hands on a copy of Halo 3: ODST nearly a month in advance of it's September release date. It seems that some copies of the game were delivered early, and Microsoft states it is "investigating a very small breach in its distribution process." Furthermore, the company is looking at Live accounts with Halo 3: ODST activity and is planning to "take action against those we believe have procured copies of the game illegitimately."

Break Room #1 - "Shenanigans"

2009-08-25T20:03:00.005-04:00

It’s Break Room, the official podcast of The Game Breaker! Braeden Orr, Christopher Barnard, Chris Ferraiolo, and Alex “Mav” Agnone are here to talk about the console war, GameStop, and maybe a bit more. Also, by the end of the episode, you’ll find out why its called “Shenanigans”.

Policenauts Fan-Translation Released

2009-08-24T17:39:00.005-04:00

It's a powerful, intensely gripping video-game experience. It's one of the greatest adventure games of all time, and one of the best you can find on the 3DO, Playstation, or Saturn. It's a masterpiece of storytelling from the creator of Metal Gear Solid himself...

...and you can't play it. That's the reality that we English-speaking people have had to live with ever since 'Policenauts' was first released for the NEC PC-9801 way back in 1994. Work began on a translated release for the Sega Saturn in 1996, but alas, it was cancelled, and it seemed that 'Policenauts' was doomed to an eternity of Japanese exclusitivity, out-of-reach for those outside of the land of the rising sun.

That is, until today, when that supposed 'enternity' was mercilessly shattered into a million pieces, for today, Kojima-san's 46th birthday, marks the release of the unofficial Policenauts translation patch, after many years in the making.

This wondrous project has finally enabled we non-Japanese speakers to play the game previous only referenced briefly in Konami's 'Metal Gear Solid'.

In case your skull is so firmly encased in carbonite that you have yet to get the point of my drawn-out and woefully pretentious wordplay, I will sum up what you have to do in three simple steps:

1. Ensure you have a modded/boot disc enabled Playstation, or a working emulator set-up.

2. Go to http://policenauts.net/ and download the translation patch.

3. Play one of the best games of all time.

There. Simple, wasn't it?

Guitar Hero 5 Compatibility Issues

2009-08-24T00:39:00.006-04:00

Now, personally, I'm not a fan of rhythm games. Guitar Hero, Rock Band, not my thing, I prefer FPS and some RPGs, but not those. However, a lot of my friends do so I hear about them fairly often. I know that even if you don't buy the newest version, it's songs are still compatible with your older version, and vice versa. However, an Activision representative told Destructoid that DLC for the upcoming Guitar Hero 5 will not be compatible with Guitar Hero: World Tour.

According to the Activision rep, Guitar Hero 5 DLC will be compatible with future titles in the franchise, but changes in how the music is formatted caused the upcoming game's music not to work on World Tour. Fortunately for you Guitar Hero fans, Activision has assured us that tracks from Guitar Hero: World Tour will be compatible with Guitar Hero 5 using a built-in importing system -- which adds new features such as band moments, expert+ drumming and the new vocal star power to older tracks.

Starbolts #37: STARBOLTS ASSEMBLE!

2009-08-23T19:12:00.008-04:00

Click Comic to Zoom

360 to PS3 Slim "Two Can Play At This Game Boy"

2009-08-22T15:58:00.005-04:00

People, you have no reason to just own a Wii. I mean, sure, there's a few good games, but the 360 and PS3 offer more traditional games you can't get on Nintendo's pride and joy. Of course, the Wii's price point of $250 is a good reason to choose it instead. Well, that was until now. Why own a 0GB Wii when you could own a 120GB PS3 Slim or Xbox 360 Elite for only 50 bucks more? Heck, if the hard drive doesn't matter to you, you could just get the Xbox 360 Arcade for 50 bucks LESS than a Wii.

I know the headline refers to the battle between Sony and Microsoft, but its still important to note how it will effect the Wii. Microsoft knows that the console war is still in full swing, and they're going to go head to head with Sony to make sure they can be number 1. Well, I mean, number 2, cause you know, your grandmother bought three Wii's last Christmas. And two of those were just for her cats!

Xbox 360 Beats PS3 on Home Turf

2009-08-22T13:58:00.004-04:00

Usually, Microsoft and its Xbox 360 don't get much attention in the Japanese sales charts. The system typically jostles for the spot in hardware sales with the aging PlayStation 2 and is represented in the top 10 game sales rarely.

The week of August 10-16 is a little different, as Microsoft sold 9,162 Xbox 360s in Japan, according to tracking firm Media Create. While not nearly enough to put the console on the same level as the portable systems, who sell better due to their lower price and portability, and the Wii because its a Family console, DSi (87,936 sold), the Wii (47,732 sold), or the PSP (39,882 sold), the sales were much better than that of its closest rival, Sony's PlayStation 3 (5,944 sold).

Interestingly, the sales spike wasn't sparked by new games. The biggest Xbox 360 release of week failed to make the top 10. New releases were actually rare on any platform for the week. Due to a low number of new games the top 10 was taken over by older big sellers, the biggest of which was Square Enix's Dragon Quest IX, which took the top spot. It was close, as Dragon Quest IX's 126,682 sold barely beat Nintendo's DS Tomodachi Collection and its 126,136 sold.

Sales Data

Week of August 10-August 16, 2009
Software:
1) Dragon Quest IX (DS) - 126,682
2) Tomodachi Collection (DS) - 126,136
3) Wii Sports Resort (Wii) - 104,972
4) Monster Hunter Tri (Wii) - 92,865
5) SD Gundam G Generation Wars (PS2) - 57,427
6) Tales of Vs. (PSP) - 34,909
7) PuyoPuyo 7 (DS) - 28,965
8) Monster Hunter Freedom Unite (PSP) - 26,955
9) Irodzuki Tincle no Koi no Balloon Trip (DS) - 17,956
10) Penguin no Mondai: Tenkuu no Senshi (DS) - 17,559

Hardware:
DSi - 87,936
Wii - 47,732
PSP - 39,882
Xbox 360 - 9,162
DS Lite - 7,921
PS3 - 5,944
PS2 - 4,907

Warren Spector Making... a Disney Game?!

2009-08-22T13:49:00.002-04:00

Holy freaking crap...

Warren Spector, mastermind behind titles like System Shock and Deus Ex is working on a new game called Epic Mickey. There's no way this could be related to Disney right? Wrong. Not only is this game Disney-related, Disney and Pixar are assisting with this Wii game. That's right. A post-apocalyptic Mickey Mouse game on the Wii. Here's some more images in the form of a YouTube video that will hopefully get you as excited as I got. There are more images out there if you look hard enough.

Break Room Premieres September 5th!

2009-08-22T12:01:00.007-04:00

The Official Podcast of The Game Breaker,
featuring Braeden Orr, Chris Ferraiolo and Alex "Mav" Agnone!

Call of Duty 4: Wii screenshots released

2009-08-22T00:06:00.004-04:00

So, the first screenshots of Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare on Wii are out. People have been worried about how its going to look in comparison to the Xbox 360 and, I suppose, the PS3. Well, quite frankly, its crap. It's basically a washed out, very low resolution version of the Xbox 360 version. Just look at it. Hopefully, for however many of you only have a Wii, they will improve the game before they release it.

I say they shouldn't even don't bother, Modern Warfare 2 will be out soon anyway and most people who would play Call of Duty 4 and own a Wii, have other systems too.

Ed Note: Everyone welcome our newest contributor and 360 fanboy, Alex "Mav" Agnone. Round of applause everybody! -Braeden

NEWS! NEWS! NEWS!

2009-08-20T16:26:00.004-04:00

Hey, everyone! Sorry I'm a little late with the news. I just had to do some errands that took up a lot of my time today. So, today I bring you TWO news items for the price of one. Why three? Because, I'm feeling extraordinarily generous today. So, with that said, let's get down to it!

The first item comes from the world of Animal Crossing City Folk for the Wii. This month, gamers will receive a hopscotch floor in the mail if they have WiiConnect24 on during August 15th to the 29th. As some of you may or may not know, Nintendo's been giving players of the virtual reality simulator many items. This includes Olimar's rocket, a DSi bench and a hot dog hat. Okay, we can't win them all. But, who can complain with free stuff? If you have a friend that has the older items, he or she can still get them from Tom Nook! The rocket though, is a little expensive. But, it's worth it if you're making a Nintendo house!

Face Front True Believers! Stan Lee talks with Marvel.com about Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 coming in September to all consoles! He talks about his creations, the storyline and everything else that just proves that Stan is indeed the Man!

While at Marvel.com, check out exclusive footage of the awesome Ms. Marvel as she takes out the baddies! Damn she rocks.

Clash of the Titans Game to Hit 2010

2009-08-19T15:31:00.004-04:00

Looks like Chris Ferraiolo when he wakes up in the morning

Clash of the Titans... is there any better cheesy movie other than the Evil Dead series? I think not! Three words: RELEASE THE KRAKKEN!

And guess what? Namco Bandai will be releasing a brand new game based on the movie! Yeah! That's awesome! It's-

...

not based on the classic film we all know and love. Its based on the remake. Yeah, this is no longer newsworthy. I mean, its all well and good, but how can you replicate the classic-ness (real word?) of Clash of the Titans? I'll tell you how. You can't.

"Not Doing Crappy Movie Games Anymore" says Marvel Exec.

2009-08-19T15:22:00.004-04:00

Movie games suck. There's no thought process it seems in the making of them. Can you think of any movie tie-in games that are at LEAST halfway decent? Other than Spider-man 2. Or Riddick. Or X-Men Origins: Wolverine. Okay, so there are a few, but these are just exceptions.

But, if you think Marvel movies are going to have crappy tie-ins, you're dead wrong!

"We are not doing movie-based games anymore. Actually, wait ... we are not doing crappy movie-based games anymore. You can quote me on that." -Ira Rubenstein

Well, we did add a really big quotation mark. Request accepted. Anyways, with the applaud given to X-Men Origins: Wolverine (the game) for being fun and better than the movie (which sucked), Marvel is going in a new direction. Games will now be made separate, even if they have nothing to do with some parts of the film they're based on. And you know what? If the game is good, that's fine by me.

Well, hello there!

2009-08-19T09:30:00.002-04:00

Greetings and salutations, my dear friends! It's Chris B. here, better known as 'lordhebe', supereme ruler of the universe, God, and resident Brit.

Anyway, I believe that's enough arrogance for one article. *Calm down Chris, calm down*

So, now that I've blessed this fine website with my almighty presence, I should get down to writing a few things, I guess. You can expect a lot to come from me in the future, as I'll be providing my typically cynical commentary on the state of gaming today, the glories of forgotten games from years gone by, and my own personal journey into fantastical nostalgia.

*Warning! Shameless plug coming in 3, 2, 1....*

As you can see from my description at the top of this very page, I am the co-creator and co-writer/editor of the review series 'Bad Movie Beatdown' by New Dawn Productions and Channel Awesome. You can check the series out over at ThatGuyWithTheGlasses.com: http://thatguywiththeglasses.com/videolinks/fbv/bmbe

So, now that's over and done-with, it's bye-bye for now, but not for long, as my first full article will be up here very soon.

Adios, amigos!

PS3 Slim & Price Drop Announced

2009-08-18T19:21:00.003-04:00

We all knew it was happening. Seriously, everyone knew. Sony finally let it out of the bag that the PS3 slim is not only coming, but its coming the FIRST WEEK OF SEPTEMBER! GET OUT THE PARTY FAVORS! WOO!

Ahem...

Anyways, it will be for the low price of $299, and will include an awesome 120GB hard drive. The new PS3 is 33 percent smaller, 36 percent lighter and uses around 34% less power. Also, starting like, right this second. All PS3's are being lowered in price to reflect the price drop. Heck, Best Buy has a deal for the current PS3 with an 80GB hard drive for $299 with Wall-E on Blu Ray and Little Big Planet as an added bonus.

I talk bad about the PS3 for the most part, but recently, Sony has hit all the right spots. A good library, a great new price point, and a free online service? Xbox 360, I love you, but you might be getting a new neighbor. Expecially since my Wii is just collecting dust. The fact that the last game I played on it was Iron Chef America should tell you why.

PSP News Out of GamesCom

2009-08-18T18:56:00.003-04:00

We've got a LOT of news coming out of GamesCom in Germany, specifically from Sony, so lets start with the little handheld that maybe, sort of, might, could, the PSP.

1. Register Your PSP Go Quickly, Get Gran Turismo Download Free

For those with incentive to get a PSP Go, here's a bit more. The excellent Gran Turismo series can be yours on the go if you register your PSP Go right after you get it. If you're getting a PSP Go, then you're going to have just one more reason to do so.

2. Sony Introduces Bite-Sized Downloadable Games

Now you can play Tetris on your PSP! Or do like me and just play it on your first Game Boy. Ah Nintendo, you still know how to make a handheld.

3. Digital Reader to Release PSP Comics in December

Now you can read Archie on your PSP! Or just buy an issue at any grocery store. Meh...

4. PSP to be in Turquoise, Lilac, and Pink in Europe by November

Ooh! I've always wanted a lilac PSP! Dreams really do come true! *tear

5. Eye of Judgment to See PSP Release

A portable game where you have to carry an extra camera with you. Kind of defeats the purpose doesn't it?

Yes, I know, I didn't really go into much details, but the headlines pretty much says it all. Besides, lets face it, you really want to know more about the PS3 don't you? Huh? *nudge, nudge*

Brutal Legend Demo in September

2009-08-18T18:50:00.003-04:00

I'm looking forward to Brutal Legend. Interesting concept, the direction of Tim Schafer, a cool heavy metal background, and the talents of Jack Black and Tim Curry. The only thing I'm not sure about is how the gameplay will be. But, that will change this September when I (and everyone else with a 360 or PS3) will be able to play the new demo.

There's not much to say, but September and "Rocktober", as EA is putting it, can't come fast enough. Also, I want to say Double Fine sucks. Why? Because, these articles are supposed to have some sort of biting comment at the end and its hard when they make a game that has me excited. I guess I could always make fun of Chris F. again. Hm...

High Voltage Working on 360/PS3 Game

2009-08-18T07:15:00.002-04:00

The Conduit has gotten pretty fair reviews. Its not bad... but its not great. Is it because the developers just didn't do enough in some spots? Or is it because the Wii can't handle a good FPS? We're going to find out soon, as High Voltage is now working on an Xbox 360 and PS3 game. Despite what you may have thought about The Conduit, everyone can agree that the game's engine is one of the best on the Wii. So, are they going to take the time to make one of the best for 360 and PS3? No, they decided to just use the best one already.

Terminal Reality, creators of the EXCELLENT (yay opinions) Ghostbusters: The Video Game, have licensed their Infernal Engine, cool name by the way, for use with future High Voltage games. No one knows what High Voltage is going to make, or even what kind of game. But, with the creative abilities of High Voltage and the technical wizardy of Terminal Reality, you can bet its going to be at least worth looking into. I mean, its got to be better than High Voltage's Paperboy 64 right?

2009 End of Video Game "Golden Age"?

2009-08-18T07:05:00.004-04:00

Well, it is if you ask Dyack of Silicon Knights. With online being the big new feature, he feels consoles just won't do it anymore.

"2009 may be the end of the golden era of video games as the first cloud models for games are announced" -Dyack

He went on to say how consoles can't keep up with online gaming due to major lag. Huh. You see, both myself and Chris Ferraiolo live in rural areas. Not big cities, but small towns. Neither of us have had lag issues to my knowledge. Well, other than when I played PS2 online with dial-up, but even then, there was little lag.

I think Dyack is getting the sluggish gameplay of his ~~PlayStation~~ Xbox 360 game, Too Human, confused with lagging online. Just a thought.

HEART!!! Two Pokemon Re-Releases Out Soon

2009-08-17T19:54:00.006-04:00

That's right, I said "HEART!" Why? Well, it's been building up in me a while ever since I found out about the impeding release of the newest games to hit the Pokémon franchise! After almost a decade, players can return to Johto, the second region in the Pokémon franchise in Pokémon Heart Gold and Soul Silver.

The games follow the basic plot of the second gen games a lot like 2004's Pokémon Fire Red and Leaf Green games in that it's a return to an old region with better graphics, old Pokémon and a chance to catch them all. All 493.

Players in Japan will get the game this fall and already sites such as serebii.net have reported news on the phenomenon. The game boasts the ability to have pokémon follow you, new touch screen capabilities and a special WiFi event to get Pokémon #493, Arceus.

There's a lot more to get into. So check out serebii.net for all the news on Heart Gold and Soul Silver. Sure you can check out the video on Pokemon.com. But, they're paid to B.S. you. Go there! Go now!

The game looks good in my opinion and I can't wait till it comes out here in Spring 2010!

Alan Wake Finished, Being Polished

2009-08-17T16:12:00.005-04:00

Pigs are flying, the Cubs won the world series, and Chris Ferraiolo got a date (Zing!). Alan Wake is not only coming. It... is... DONE! I'll let you take this opportunity to get back in your chair since I know you just fell out of it.

Are you up yet?

Remedy Managing Director Matias Myllyrinne said that not only is the game on track, but it is finished. Right now, developers are polishing, putting the game right on track for its scheduled Spring 2010 release. When the game was first shown four years ago (now see why i made the pigs are flying joke?), I was kind of excited. Now, knowing that its actually coming, I can't wait for it. Normally this is where I put some sort of flippant remark, but I really want to play this. So, in its place, I'll just start backtracking on that joke about Chris not being able to get a date. Sorry Chris, please don't draw mean things about me in the next issue of Starbolts.

Rare Sees Natal as Opportunity to Bring Back Franchise

2009-08-17T07:37:00.004-04:00

Rare, what's happened to you? You were making such great games, and now you just make system setups and great games. Oh, wait, why the bad rap? I mean, we did get a new Banjo Kazooie game. Plus, a new Perfect Dark remake is coming to XBLA. On top of that, Rare wants to revitalize an old franchise for use with Project Natal. What franchise? I have no idea. George Andreas, a 15 year veteran of Rare, wasn't specific, but he did say he was very excited for one in particular. What could it be?

I know friend of The Game Breaker Welshy would love the return of Conker. Personally, my bet is on Grabbed by the Ghoulies. Everyone loved that game right? Right?

Logitech Wants You to Buy a $300 Toy

2009-08-17T07:25:00.005-04:00

Logitech just announced it's brand new G27 racing wheel for the PS3 and 360. For the very low price (/sarcasm) of $300, you too can soon own one. It has real leather, all sorts of RPM indicators, and is just like being behind the wheel of a real car, just without the satisfaction of accomplishing something for real. Still, if you're doing well in this recession, and have 300 bucks to blow, you should look into this. It DOES have leather after all.

Logitech Announces Logitech® G27 Racing Wheel

Logitech – Aug. 17, 2009 – Logitech (SIX: LOGN) (NASDAQ: LOGI) today announced the Logitech® G27 Racing Wheel. Designed to deliver the definitive sim racing experience for the PC and PLAYSTATION®3, the G27 features a powerful, dual-motor force feedback mechanism that smoothly and accurately delivers high-fidelity force effects to the hand-stitched leather wheel, so you can feel traction loss, weight shift, and the surface of the road. The helical gears deliver exceptionally quiet steering action, virtually eliminating noise and unwanted vibration. A six-speed gated shifter lets you choose exactly the right gear for the turn, while new RPM/shift indicator LEDs let you know just when to up- or down-shift. And the clutch pedal makes heel-and-toe downshifting possible, keeping your gear changes quick and your RPMs high all the way around the track. The Logitech G27 Racing Wheel is expected to be available in the U.S. and Europe in September for a suggested retail price of $299.99 (U.S.). For more information about the G27 visit http://blog.logitech.com/ or www.logitech.com.

Product Overview
Replacing and improving upon the venerable G25 Racing Wheel, the Logitech G27 Racing Wheel is designed to deliver the definitive sim racing experience. A diagonal-cut, helical gear system creates a smooth and accurate force feedback experience, while more programmable buttons on the wheel and two stainless steel shifter paddles put the functions you need within your reach. With the G27, whether you're sliding sideways around a gravelly curve, or screaming through the streets of Monaco, the world's greatest circuits feel closer than ever.

Key Features
• Powerful, dual-motor force feedback mechanism with helical gearing smoothly and accurately simulates traction loss, weight shift, and road feel, with quiet steering action.
• Six-speed shifter with push-down reverse gear allows you to quickly choose exactly the right gear.
• RPM/shift indicator LEDs integrate with racing game software to indicate when to should shift gears.
• Realistic 11-inch wheel with leather-wrapped rim provides a more comfortable, true-to-life racing experience for hours on end.
• Steel gas, brake, and clutch pedals deliver precise throttle, braking, and shifting control for heightened realism.

Also, I just want to point out the irony of Logitech listing their trade listing for an accessory everyone is too poor to buy. Yay commercialism!

Nintendo Releases Super Star Wars on Virtual Console

2009-08-16T13:50:00.005-04:00

I'm back with an interesting news story. What is it? Well, last Monday Nintendo released Super Star Wars for the Virtual Console. The game can be found under the Super Nintendo directory and I found that its sequels will be released soon. What does it mean? Well, it means Nintendo may soon be released more licensed games on the Virtual Console.

It looks like a fun game to me. However, I'm looking forward to seeing if Marvel Vs. Capcom will make the cut. It'll be interesting to see what's released tomorrow for VC and WiiWare. My bet? It may be the second episode of the Tales of Monkey Island game on WiiWare. Don't quote me on that, though!

Note from Braeden: Congratulations Chris, you have successfully posted a news story. Next time, be more flippant, or "wisely sarcastic". Chicks dig that crap up. Also, Super Star Wars is excellent. Very difficult, but quite good.

Hello!

2009-08-16T11:35:00.003-04:00

Hey, everyone. I'm Cferra and I'll be your waiter for this evening. I'd recommend the clam chowder but the chef in the back's being disgruntled. You don't want to know what he's been putting in it.

Okay, kidding. I just wanted to say hi as this is my first post on Braeden's board. As my profile says, I have a comic and the latest one can be found here: http://thatguywiththeglasses.com/blog/10593

And plug is over.

What I'll be doing every once in a while is posting links to the comic and perhaps my take on games. In the mean time, enjoy everything you see here and keep watching Review Impossible and all the other great blogs at TGWTG.com.

Cheers!

Steven Spielberg to Direct Halo Film?

2009-08-16T08:31:00.004-04:00

Halo is easily one of the biggest franchises today. The latest installment, Halo 3, still has millions of people playing, despite being two years old. Why is that? No seriously, I'm asking because I thought Halo 3 to be mediocre. But, despite my opinions, its clear a LOT of people love this game. And, when you have something so popular in the gaming universe, you make a movie. Well, at least until it looks like its going to cost an arm and a leg to produce, then you cancel it on the spot.

Despite the original film's cancellation, Stuart Beattie (GI Joe: Rise of Cobra) wrote a script entitled Halo: The Fall of Reach. Last year Latino Review read the script, and stated:

"The script is, first and foremost, a character-driven story about a soldier named John who was kidnapped or “conscripted” by the UNSC when he was just six years old, and then brutally trained to become an elite Spartan warrior known as Master Chief 117.

The script then takes us through the horrific first contact with the Covenant hordes on the doomed colony world of Harvest, and then climaxes with the spectacular fall of the UNSC forward base on Reach, during which every other Spartan is slaughtered."

Ooh, sounds exciting. Too bad it will never happen right? Well, it looks like that may no longer be true, as Steven Spielberg is rumored to be in negotiations to direct this film. With recent studio issues, and Spielberg looking for his first big film under his new Dreamworks umbrella, this seems to be the perfect fit. Plus, Peter Jackson could still produce the film. Spielberg and Jackson on the film? How could this go wrong? Besides, Spielberg won't have to even worry about angering fans with random plot twists since aliens are already in the Halo universe. Zing!

Saturday Sale of the Week (8/15/09) - Guitar Hero III on Wii

2009-08-15T21:49:00.003-04:00

This week's sale is from video game and entertainment merchandise selling giant... CVS Pharmacies. Wait, what?! That's right, imagine my surprise when I walk into CVS to get some photos developed (what is developed some of you may ask), and there on the shelf was the Guitar Hero III game and guitar bundle on Wii for 50 bucks. BUT WAIT! THERE'S MORE! If you have a CVS card (or if you know someone who does that is willing to lend it to you, or use it for you) you get and EXTRA $10 off the price, making this bundle that normally goes for $7o, only $40. This is a hot deal that ends in a week, so if you missed out on GH3 (which, despite being an okay entry in the series, its still worth the money) go out and get it now. This was advertised in their ad, so chances are this is not a local promotion, and is nation-wide. Hop to it!

If you find an awesome deal in your local paper or store, send it to us! Just be sure the sale is for the upcoming week so we don't run an expired ad. That would suck.

Randy Couture to Star in EA Sports MMA; Gone from UFC?

2009-08-15T21:22:00.005-04:00

If you're a red-blooded American male like me, chances are, you enjoy fighting. Whether it be UFC, WEC, IFL, or anything, you enjoy a good fight. Any MMA fan knows of Randy Couture, as he's one of the most decorated fighters in the sport. What you may not know, is that he just signed on to "star" in EA Sports MMA. Well, if you didn't, you do now.

While this wouldn't have been surprising a few years ago, it is now, considering he is back in the UFC. Its even more surprising when you consider Dana White stating anyone in EA Sports MMA would be banned from UFC for life. So, how is Mr. White going to respond to this? Is he going to get rid of one of his most popular fighters? Or is he going to go back on his word?

Personally, if I were him, I would just dress up like a dictator since Couture looks like Guile from Street Fighter: The Movie in the above picture from Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3. C&C:RA3, by the way, is also an EA game. Imagine that...

OBJECTION! Phoenix Wright Originally to Star in Tatsunoko vs. Capcom

2009-08-15T15:40:00.006-04:00

OBJECTION!

Seriously, that joke never gets old. In a recent interview with NGamer magazine, Ryota Niitsuma, a producer of the upcoming Tatsunoko vs. Capcom, revealed something very interesting. Beloved Capcom character Phoenix Wright was originally going to be in the game. So, why leave out one of their most loved and popular characters? Mostly because, all he does is ask questions and point:

"...because Phoenix Wright only has one move, 'Objection!', we struggled. We designed a move for him: when he says objection, the actual writing attacks the opponent. However, 'objection' in Japanese is 'igiari' -- it's four characters, whereas 'objection' becomes ten. When we localise, the balance of the game gets destroyed because the move becomes bigger. There'd be no way of avoiding it! We had to remove him for these reasons. In the future, it is one of our aims to get him in."

Well, that certainly does make sense. But, if they ever do figure out a way to put him in a fighting game, and they still don't, I'll just have one thing to say.

OBJECTION!

See? Never gets old.

PSPGo website advertises... the DSi?

2009-08-15T13:42:00.005-04:00

Sony's PSPgo was probably the worst kept secret in gaming for a while. I mean, developers knew it was coming. Publishers knew it was coming. Gamers knew it was coming. And guess what? Sony finally said its coming. So, they're going to start up the hype train by creating websites right? Well, apparently they didn't put that plan into action fast enough. A VERY avid DSi fan registered the domain pspgo.co.uk, and has put up a VERY professional looking website. Sony has yet to say anything about this website, but its safe to assume they're going to be offering some big bucks for this domain.

I have to say that this website is almost too professional for a fan. I had to stop and wonder if Nintendo had possibly done it. However, after looking at their other sites, I've come to the conclusion that more likely than not, Nintendo didn't do it and the guy that did it must REALLY like Nintendogs.

If you want to see the site, click here.

No Elder Scrolls V, MMO Possible

2009-08-15T11:05:00.001-04:00

Is there any game better than Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion? Well, if you're not an RPG fan like me, pretty much any game. But, it is considered to be one of the best RPG's out there. So, the fifth one has to be coming soon right? Well, according to Todd Howard of Bethesda, it ain't happening. But, an Elder Scrolls MMO? That has a chance of happening.

In a day where online gaming is big, it seems everyone is trying MMO's. Star Wars, DC Comics, Call of Duty, and now Elder Scrolls. While Bethesda does have the advantage of being a big name in the RPG world, with one of the most popular RPG franchises, you can't help but wonder how it will hold up. Star Wars and DC have licenses to back up their properties, and Call of Duty would offer an MMO WWII game, should Activision ever decide to stop talking about the game and doing it. Elder Scrolls is fantasy. Surely there's no game out there that is like that right?

RPG fans are going to be sad, mad, or whatever over no Elder Scrolls V, but as for the MMO? Well, the nerds* are probably too busy playing World of Warcraft to care.

*We here at The Game Breaker would like to state that we mean nerds in the nicest way possible. We have several friends that enjoy WoW, and think about it. If you write about gaming news and produce game reviews on the internet, you would have to be a nerd too.

Sony Patents Emotion Controller Plans

2009-08-15T08:49:00.001-04:00

Sony has always had innovative ideas. Think about it. They've had online play, cameras, and motion sensing. Of course, Nintendo already had motion controls. And Sega already had the DreamEye on the Dreamcast. And online play? Even the GENESIS had online in some form before Sony!

This patent allows games to use metadata to read the player's emotions. While laughter is the focus in these sketches, it will be used for sadness, anger, boredom, etc. as well. It is certainly interesting, and most likely has to do with Microsoft's Project Natal, which showed some quite impressive pre-rendered footage at E3.

I just wonder how long it took for the artist to come up with a guy getting kicked in the pants as humor? Oh Sony, your failed attempts at humor never cease to amuse me! Hey, maybe the system can read my boredom when I'm playing Haze. Then again, the system might grow legs and strangle me with the controller. I'll just stick with using a pad and system. You can keep my emotions out of your games.

Frequently Asked Questions

2009-08-15T00:49:00.000-04:00

What is The Game Breaker?

Essentially, its just my attempt to vent my frustrations over the gaming industry. Yes, there are a lot of awesome games coming out soon, and yes, there is a lot going on that we can rejoice over. However, there are still things that really grind my gears. So, what better way to tackle them than with cynicism? Sarcasm makes the world go round, after all.

What is iPen Productions?

iPen Productions is the film production company and parent company of The Game Breaker. Both iPen Productions and The Game Breaker were founded by Braeden Orr. To visit the iPen Productions website, go to http://ipenproductions.blogspot.com

How does the rating system work?

It seems that everyone can agree there is no such thing as a perfect anything. So, when I say I give a game a 10 out of 10, a lot of people look at me like I'm crazy. So, here's a breakdown of what the scores REALLY mean.

11 - You will never own a game this good
10 - Incredible
9 - Great
8 - Good
7 - Above Average
6 - Decent
5 - Average
4 - Mediocre
3 - Bad
2 - Horrible
1 - I think a puppy just died