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SALT LAKE CITY -- Last week may have been impressive in the world of video games, but Oct. 9-15 hopes to be even better.
With so many games hitting store shelves, it can be intimidating when trying to find the perfect gift for a friend, child, or loved one. WarpZone makes this week’s decision easier.
Red Dead Redemption: Game of the Year Edition
Platform: PlayStation 3 & Xbox 360
Rating: Mature (17+) – Contains blood and gore, intense violence, nudity, strong language, strong sexual content, use of drugs
Release Date: Oct. 10
Genre: Action Adventure
Parents see “Game of the Year” published on a lot of boxes, but few can claim the title as strongly as “Red Dead Redemption.”
When this title launched, most thought it would fail, but with every month leading up to the end-of-the-year award shows, sales continued to grow. This game didn’t just win “Action Adventure Game of the Year.” It won the big title, the “Leading Man” of the gaming world.
So why is it getting released a second time? Many gamers were left out of several experiences contained within the game due to digital constraints, some in the form of downloadable content and some in the form of limited offers.
Now, Rockstar Games is publishing all supplementary content with the game in one package for a low price. Gamers who own the first release will be frustrated with this release. However, for adults who want to experience one of the most engaging and incredible stories told in 2010 with all of its additional content, make sure to add this game to your wishlist.
Parents, keep this game away from children. In terms of film, “Pulp Fiction” may be one of the greatest films of all time, but children still should not watch it.
Platform: Xbox 360
Rating: Everyone (2+)
Release Date: Oct. 11
Genre: Racing
PlayStation has “Gran Turismo.” Xbox has “Forza.” Both are similar in the use of real-life cars and tracks, and at the end of the day, that is most of the game. The only difference between these two games is the Xbox Kinect.
For Kinect owners, “Forza” offers additional information on the cars. Exciting, right? Now you can learn all about your Porsche’s headlights.
Still, it’s good to know that Xbox has a serious racer that can compete with “Gran Turismo.” The game is good for anyone in the family, but it should be purchased for teens and up, since the difficulty can frustrate young children.
Marvel Super Hero Squad: The Infinity Gauntlet
Platform: Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo DS, Nintendo Wii, Xbox 360, & PlayStation 3 (October 18)
Rating: Everyone 10+ – Contains comic mischief and mild cartoon violence
Release Date: Oct. 11
Genre: Action
“Marvel Super Hero Squad” is a kid-friendly franchise that brings favorite Marvel characters together, makes them cuter, and removes much of the intense violence.
Since the toys, shows, and games have been around, parents have loved this alternative squad of super heroes made for their children. While the Xbox and PlayStation versions will have better graphics, the 3DS version still looks good and takes advantage of the glasses-free 3D technology of the platform.
For children over 10, this game will offer diverse gameplay and plenty of fun.
Platform: PlayStation 3 & Xbox 360
Rating: Teen (13+) – Contains alcohol reference, blood, language, mild suggestive themes, and violence
Release Date: Oct. 11
Genre: Flight Action
Namco Bandai bets that gamers will enjoy this flight simulator that allows control of jets and helicopters. While there is a story in this game, it will feel shallow and predictable. The only hope is that the cut scenes will not take too much time between the flight missions.
Unless a teenager or an adult has expressed interest in this franchise before, this will most likely be a disappointment.
Platform: PC
Rating: Teen (13+) – Contains mild language, sexual themes, and violence
Release Date: Oct. 11
Genre: RPG
“Might & Magic Heroes VI” is the sequel to “Might & Magic V” and takes place 500 years ago. Yeah, it’s a sequel that is actually a prequel. Now that you’ve sighed and rolled your eyes, it’s time to explain what makes this worth checking out.
As a long-running role-playing game franchise, “Might & Magic” consistently produces an engaging story.
In this one, players fight as the Griffin Dukes’ heroes as they attempt to stop Angels attempting to revive an Archangel general bent on war and destruction. This will be best for teens and adults who have played previous titles or have expressed interest in the title.
As a surprise gift, this will fall flat at first glance.
Rune Factory: Tides of Destiny
Platform: PlayStation 3’s Move & Nintendo Wii
Rating: Everyone 10+ – Contains fantasy violence, mild suggestive themes, and use of alcohol
Release Date: Oct. 11
Genre: RPG
Japanese role-playing games were popular in the 1990s with franchises like “Final Fantasy” and “Phantasy Star.” Today, gamers are not impressed with their linear story-telling like they used to. To compensate, developers try new forms of gameplay to win an audience.
“Rune Factory” has done well with its unique leveling system and exploration features. This title will intrigue young gamers who enjoy story over challenge. However, buyer beware, for the PlayStation 3 version requires Move to be played.
Platform: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, & PC
Rating: Mature (17+) – Contains blood and gore and intense violence
Release Date: Oct. 11
Genre: Action Adventure
Taking place during the Fourth Crusade, a young descendent of a Templar takes up his sword to help reclaim the Holy City. However, he finds war early in the city of Constantinople. Players will explore ancient cities and hack and slash through hordes of enemies in this historical fiction.
While the story sounds fascinating, the modernized combat will suck some players out of the experience. For adults looking for something outside of the usual, this may be the surprise hit of the year worth bragging about. Parents should keep children away from this violent game. This is best for adults who enjoy historical fictions.
November is approaching quickly, and I need help from other gamers with a buyer’s guide for Black Friday. This week, post your favorite console-exclusive titles in the comments section, through email, the WarpZone Facebook, or on Twitter @WarpZonePodcast. On the last episode of WarpZone before Black Friday, the show will offer your advice live on KWCR 88.1 Weber FM.
Ben produces and hosts WarpZone on KWCR 88.1 Weber FM on Tuesdays from 3 p.m.-4 p.m. The show focuses on gaming news and is available as a free download on iTunes by searching "WarpZone Show." Ben can be found online as "BenTheWicked"!
