Unfortunately, this game didn't hold my interest for long. Compared to the tight design of Smash Bros, PSASBR seemed to be very amateurishly-made, IMO.
Doesn't help that it seemed to further prove that Sony has an inferiority complex in regards to copying Nintendo.
...And before I get roasted in flames, yes, I KNOW Nintendo didn't 'invent' the mascot mash-up - but PS All-Stars was a very clear attempt by Sony to emulate Smash Bros' success, without really knowing WHY Smash Bros is so successful.
Sony is so much better at fostering original ideas, rather than riffing on the competition. Games like Echocrome, Locoroco, ICO, Shadow of the Colossus, Puppeteer, Rain, Tearaway, Beyond: Two Souls and The Last of Us are proof of that.
@Diddy_kong - " I don’t care about unique control schemes that are going to “change the way we all play games!!” or whatever. Just give me a DualShock and let me play games like they’re meant to be played."
That kind of attitude is what's causing the industry to stagnate. Videogaming needs innovation - and it needs 'gimmicks' - if it is to evolve.
But considering you just openly admitted to loving Michael Pachter, I guess I shouldn't be taking you seriously.
@JaxonH - You are making some great points, my good sir.
Seriously, as long as the console is profitable and making money for its parent company - then who cares how much it sells in relation to the competition?
Our 'job' as gamers is to buy, play and enjoy talking about games. Let the big business men in the flashy suits worry about the financials.
I said it before, and I'll say it again: this is a terrible, terrible idea.
It conveys the message that the game wasn't 'good enough'; that it can't stand on its own without a movie to 'legitimise' it.
People say that the games industry suffers from an inferiority complex... Gee, I wonder why?
I barely watch any movies anymore. It's all just the same crap over and over again. Peter Molyneux once compared the productivity of watching a movie to staring at a blank wall - and I'm inclined to agree with him. Games have to potential to be so much more, yet developers and publishers keep looking at Hollywood as some sort of 'holy grail' that should be emulated. What a load of toss.
"We're not into reincarnation, or sci-fi, or anything like that. This is a realistic game, and we're trying to make everything as real as possible. That’s so that when we throw the powers on top, you'll believe in them, too."
I particularly liked this bit. The big problem I have with (mainstream) comics is that death has no meaning, and as such firms like DC and Marvel seem to enjoy insulting the intelligence of their readers by expecting them to take their plots seriously.
Looking forward to playing this game. Unfortunately, I won't be getting a PS4 for quite a while.
I can't wait. I've actually pre-ordered the Special Edition of Second Son and a PS4 separately; but this bundle looks awesome!
On topic; the Sucker Punch talk should be interesting. I can't wait to hear about their impressions of the PS4 hardware - and how much juice Second Son is actually using.
EDIT 2: I just want to clarify my anti-Jaffe comment. I just don't like his attitude. He uses vulgar language whenever he talks, and I hated how he mouthed-off to Miyamoto and trashed Mario Kart. His software doesn't impress; he's most famous for a generic hack n' slash game (GoW) and a generic vehicle combat game (Twisted Metal).
Won't be getting either this year. Still, it'll be fun watching Sony & Microsoft (and their respective fanboys) going at each other's throats. ATM, It looks like I'll be getting a PS4 before an Xbox One.
Glad to see an awful, buggy mess like Skyrim get some recognition for once.
/sarcasm
I agree with Sammy; I believe Wii Sports deserves the 'Game of the Generation' moniker (though Mario Galaxy 2 is my personal favourite). It ushered in a new era by expanding the videogame audience - and as a result became the highest selling (bundled) game of all time.
Not too hot on Knack, TBH. It just seems so generic; IMO, Sony's 'family friendly' titles don't have the same magic that is present in Nintendo's own games. I mean, Pikmin 3 looks 10x better on the 'inferior' Wii U.
With that said though, I actually think it's great that Knack is one of PS4's showcase games (as contradictory as that sounds). It conveys the message that Sony's isn't just about 'mature' (i.e.. violent & sweary) games, but rather a wide range of original experiences that caters to all ages and tastes.
"We’d always hoped that Insomniac Games would be working on a full PlayStation 4 intergalactic adventure to accompany the upcoming Ratchet & Clank movie, but we suppose that that’s looking less likely now."
Why? Because a writer left? Hardly seems like a reason to end a series...
@ThreadShadow - Yeah. The generally-accepted story is that Nintendo betrayed Sony, but the reality was a lot more complicated. Sony weren't exactly innocent victims.
Unfortunately - and as much as I love the company - Sega's management was woefully incompetent. The biggest success the firm ever had was Sonic & the Mega Drive (which really was something; Nintendo was generally seen as untouchable back then). Besides that though, the Sega bosses didn't seem to have much clue; bitter competition between the Japanese and American branches was actually encouraged (which led to the cancellation of the American-made Katana console), as well as famous gaffes such as the cancellation of Sonic Xtreme, the 32X, Mega CD, the Saturn (complete with dodgy CPU), and the Dreamcast.
Of course, the actual creative talent of Sega were utterly awesome. Who knows what they could've achieved under Sony's management?
This looks very unimpressive, honesty. It looks incredibly generic - both in terms of gameplay and art-style. According to Digital Foundry, it doesn't even run all that smoothly either...
@TheRealBatman - "Basically, Sony looks to the future while Nintendo is stuck in the past. Call me a fanboy if you want, I don't care."
Ummm... no.
The Wii and DS were designed the way they were BECAUSE Nintendo was looking toward the future; it realised that the games industry was stagnating, and needed a shot in the arm. The PS3 (as much as I love it) was a bloated, unfocused piece of hardware in the beginning. It was a product of Ken Kutaragi's arrogance and Sony's misjudgement of the evolution of the games market. The inclusion of 'Trophies' (i.e. Achievements), the Sixaxis, and the PS Move was proof of a confused Sony playing catch-up.
Now, thankfully, it seems things are different. Sony really seems to have changed for the better, and I applaud its efforts. Cerny,Yoshida, & co. really seem to be doing everything right.
@Zombie_Barioth - "The thing with Nintendo is while they're still pretty innovative on the hardware side I think they've been playing it a bit too safe on the software side lately."
Honestly, I think ANY company could be accused of this, if one were to try hard enough. Microsoft, Sony and Nintendo have their 'safe' games (Halo, God of War, NSMB), they have their 'bold' games (Quantum Break, The Last of Us, Nintendo Land) and they even have their 'quirky' games (Project Spark, Puppeteer, Game & Wario). IMO, I think the reason why there is a perception that Nintendo 'milk' their IP more is because of their design philosophies. Miyamoto and others base their projects on gameplay, before deciding what franchise suits that gameplay best; whilst Microsoft and Sony seem to place a greater emphasis on story and narrative. I've noticed that games like Uncharted, God of War & inFamous have a strong 'canon' that has a beginning, a middle and an end. Characters die, and stories end, which creates a need for 'new stories' - AKA new IP. Compare this to Mario and Zelda; stories that don't have a strong canon - because the story is not the primary focus. Mario doesn't grow old, goes through numerous epiphanies, and dies at the end - and neither does Link. Nintendo's characters are stuck in a perpetual Never Never Land - there is no constant cycle of death and rebirth (like an IP being canned, before going through a reboot - like the ever-suffering comic book industry).
Again, it all boils down to creative mantras. Neither approaches are 'right' nor 'wrong' - just as long as they are fun to play, IMO.
Ehhhh, I think I'll still be sticking with PS4, personally.
Just because Microsoft made a few token gestures to make their Xbox One slightly less abhorrent, doesn't mean their past idiocy and greed should be swept under the carpet.
"In addition to the aforementioned snippet, the Dutch developer also revealed that the demo featured 60 AI characters, 940 entities, 8,200 physics objects, 500 particle systems, 120 voices, and 110 ray casts. Phew. Characters are currently being built using 40,000 polygons, a figure four times greater than the models from Killzone 3."
And yet the game doesn't look impressive to me. Not in the least.
Still, it IS only an unfinished launch game...the mind boggles at thinking about PS4 games 5 or 6 years from now.
EDIT: @charlesnarles - LOL, that's how I read it at first too.
Unfortunately for Sony, it seems Nintendo have Monster Hunter and Dragon Quest under lock and key. With these titles and Pokemon, Nintendo seems to be unstoppable in Japan. However, I think the fact that Sony trying to create the next 'big thing' in the form of Soul Sacrifice is an admirable move. I think time will tell whether the game takes Japan by storm, as Japanese gamers are a stubbrn bunch. Who knows? Monster Hunter was once a new, obscure IP once upon a time...
@Jaz007 - Yes, Sony DID work on motion-sensing tech years ago; but the PS Move WAS a direct response to the Wii. Sony even admitted as such.
Using the same principle; Nintendo did not invent touchscreen gaming, but companies like Apple and Sony only began to adopt the tech after Nintendo proved its viability with DS.
@3Above - There was a recent interview with Miyamoto; who stated that Nintendo comes up with a core gaming concept first, before deciding what franchise woud fit it best. I would argue that this causes the perception of the company being too reliant on a set number of franchises (i.e. Mario and Zelda). Whilst I do agree that Nintendo like to jam Mario in a lot of titles (he WAS designed to be versatile, after all), in reality, they are equally as innovative in mixing-up their series' mechanics. Few would say that Super Mario Bros. was the same as Super Mario Bros. 3, or that Mario 64 was identical to Super Mario Galaxy. Likewise, the Zelda games display a lot more variety than they're given credit for; with Skyward Sword being very bold in its new design choices. Regarding Nintendo's creativity with Wii software, I guess we'll have to just agree to disagree on that front.
In regards to motion controls, well, time will ultimately tell if they are indeed a passing fad. With that said, the Wii U Game Pad uses gyroscopic controls and Wii Remotes. Also, the new Xbox is very likely to adopt a new Kinect system, so it seems that motion isn't entirely dead yet. (EDIT: Oh, that's right, the PS4 controller also incorporates PS Move tech). New technology tends to go through a 'rest' period before undergoing a resurgence; as seen with 3D and Virtual Reality (Oculus Rift). With that said, there were actually a few examples where the Wii Remote proved to be superior alternative to a regular joypad (IMO of course). I felt that Skyward Sword's swordplay was simply superb, and proved that motion controls could possibly be a viable evolution to videogame input methods. Likewise, the Wiimote was excellent for FPS games; and was something I regarded as a genuine leap for the genre (imagine my disappointment in seeing Killzone PS4 rely on a 25-year old control system). I can't be alone in thinking this; after all, COD: Black Ops 2 on Wii U supports the Wii Remote set-up, and I've seen many other people ask for future FPS games to continue supporting the set-up. Also, the Wiimote was great for point n' click titles.
Finally, why should the Wii have been "just another Nintendo system?" What does that even mean?
However, you say that the Wii's hardware sales were successful. Well, that kinda helps me prove my point. Nintendo made big money on the console; Microsoft and Sony didn't. In another thread, I mentioned that both companies have lost $8 billion and $3.5 billion respectively this generation. Great software sales for both X360 and PS3 didn't exactly help ease these losses; with over 130 developers & publishers going out of business.
Also, the Wii had MANY titles that passed the 1 million sales mark (which is especially good, considering the lower budgets of the games), not to mention mega-sellers like Mario Kart Wii (selling 35 million units) Wii Fit 1 & 2 (43 million) & NSMBW (26 million) - these are numbers that Activision could only wish for their COD games; not to mention Nintendo's 'lesser' successes such as Galaxy 1 & 2, Metroid and Skyward Sword - which all still sold millions.
Still, I do realise that the majority of 3rd party games DID suffer on the console; and fingers of blame could be pointed at various guilty parties all day. Unfortunately, I can easily see the same thing happen with Wii U.
That being said, it's pretty disingenuous of you to say that the Wii was only a success in "the minds of some fans". No, it was a success both financially, and creatively. Don't believe me? Then why are the Mario Galaxys the highest rated games of this gen? Why did Skyward Sword get praised by many outlets for 'proving' the superiority of motion controls? Why did Wii Sports become a mega-phenomenon that helped expand the games industry? Why? Why? Why? Even Al Alcorn - co-founder of Atari - praised Nintendo for the Wii; whilst Will Wright called it the only 'true' next-gen console. Heck, if you want, I can post a giganto list of great Wii games. The stigma of 'no' games can be attributed to mountains of shovelware over the years, and (IMO) an inherant bias of the gaming media that preferred to cover the 'shiner' and 'hardcore' HD consoles, instead of the 'casual' Wii.
Also, I want to mention the fact that both Sony and Microsoft saw the need to directly copy the Wii's big selling-points; with PS Move for the former, and Kinect & 'Avatars' for the latter.
Oh, and again; Sony & MS - swallowed by debt. Nintendo - NOT swallowed by debt. That's the bottom line.
Definitely a ballsy move by Guerilla. I just hope the game won't simply be a shinier-Killzone 2 (though it probably will be).
I'd love to see Guerilla pull a rabbit out of its hat, and do a 'Halo'; that is, unleash an incredible FPS that leaves all others in the dust. One can dream...
@TheRealBatman - I don't know where you got that info from. Guerilla have only just started developing on the official PS4 dev-kits. Before then, they've been building Killzone on a PC.
@3Above - Well, they weren't worried about the Wii, either...
On topic. Even if Microsoft DID gain the exclusive services of Respawn Entertainment, I seriously doubt it would pose a threat to Sony. The company has already lost its biggest exclusive 3rd party series (Metal Gear Solid), but that is the least of its worries. 3rd party exclusives are pretty much a thing of the past; an exception, rather than the rule. It is very doubtful that Microsoft are spending big money on attaining 3rd party interests; the company has lost $8 billion this generation, thanks to the RROD and flops such as the Zune, Windows Phone, Surface and Windows 8. It can't just throw around money forever.
But really, this story (the way I see it) is a reflection of a greater issue; the stagnation of the traditional console model. Things are beginning to implode, with high development costs and too much red tape. Returns are diminishing on all fronts, and both Microsoft and Sony are surrounded by debt.
Still, Sony have alot of great studios and IP, and seem to be going all-out with the PS4. Its biggest strength over Microsoft is its franchises and brand loyalty (IMO). Hopefully the 'all or nothing' gamble taken by the PS4 will pay-off!
Great news for Vita. Can't wait to see the official sales data!
@artemisthemp - I agree. The memory card fiasco has been very detrimental for Vita, IMO. Absolutely insane that Sony didn't go with something standard like SD Cards, and the decision has bit them on the ass.
When you're forced to pay $100 for 32g, then something's definitely wrong.
@rastamadeus - Having Knack and Delsin Rowe as DLC would actually be a really good idea, for the reasons you've already listed. I would also add the protagonist of Killzone: Shadow Fall, and levels/characters based on Puppeteer, Soul Sacrifice, The Last of Us, Rain, Tearaway, and (maybe) The Witness & Beyond: Two Souls. It would build awareness for these upcoming games, which wouldn't exactly hurt Sony.
Still, it's good to see this game is still being supported, despite SuperBot's departure
I liked it. It really seemd that Sony was incredibly focused with the PS4, and there was an air of no-nonsense about it.
People who have been complaining about the event reaffirm my views of the internet being a petty, petty place. Seriously? You're actually complaining about the absence of the console itself?
Christ.
Sony, Nintendo, and Microsoft are all in the same boat. No matter what they do, people will complain and moan about it. I predicted that the whiney vitriol directed toward the Wii U would evntually be directed at Sony (and eventually Microsoft), and I was right. People just want to complain and be negative - simply because they can.
Well, I'm NOT one of those people. Sony did a great job, and I'm really excited about the future - just like Nintendo and the Wii U.
Hmm, interesting comments there, especially considering someone from Naughty Dog (can't remember who) said he was terrified of the next generation.
Also, let's not forget that making AAA games is still an incredibly costly business. About 130 devs/publishers (and counting) have bought the farm this generation; a generation where 1 - 2 million sales is considered a flop (hello Darksiders and Max Payne 3).
Of all three major consoles, I find myself least excited for Durango. Indeed, I wasn't too fond of the Xbox 360; it was a horribly designed console with very few meaningful exclusives and a rip-off subscription service. Plus, Microsoft ruined Rare. Boo!
Comments 479
Re: This Mad Mathematical Formula Proves That PlayStation All-Stars Hasn't Been Forgotten
Unfortunately, this game didn't hold my interest for long. Compared to the tight design of Smash Bros, PSASBR seemed to be very amateurishly-made, IMO.
Doesn't help that it seemed to further prove that Sony has an inferiority complex in regards to copying Nintendo.
...And before I get roasted in flames, yes, I KNOW Nintendo didn't 'invent' the mascot mash-up - but PS All-Stars was a very clear attempt by Sony to emulate Smash Bros' success, without really knowing WHY Smash Bros is so successful.
Sony is so much better at fostering original ideas, rather than riffing on the competition. Games like Echocrome, Locoroco, ICO, Shadow of the Colossus, Puppeteer, Rain, Tearaway, Beyond: Two Souls and The Last of Us are proof of that.
Re: Talking Point: Has Sony's Dithering Turned Off PS Vita TV's Chances?
Nah, Vita TV is dead in the water, IMO - especially with Sony's plans for PS Now.
Re: Could Soul Sacrifice Delta Be Arriving Overseas Soon?
Awesome! I wanted to get Soul Sacrifice, but decided to wait for this. Luckily it seems to have paid-off.
Re: The Force Is with Uncharted's Amy Hennig as She Swaps Drake for Skywalker
Sweet!
Finally, EA has made a GOOD decision!
Re: Pachter: PS4's Virtual Reality Headset Is a 'Really Bad Idea'
@Diddy_kong - " I don’t care about unique control schemes that are going to “change the way we all play games!!” or whatever. Just give me a DualShock and let me play games like they’re meant to be played."
That kind of attitude is what's causing the industry to stagnate. Videogaming needs innovation - and it needs 'gimmicks' - if it is to evolve.
But considering you just openly admitted to loving Michael Pachter, I guess I shouldn't be taking you seriously.
Re: PS4 Sales Slip Behind Pace Set by Nintendo Wii U in Japan
@JaxonH - You are making some great points, my good sir.
Seriously, as long as the console is profitable and making money for its parent company - then who cares how much it sells in relation to the competition?
Our 'job' as gamers is to buy, play and enjoy talking about games. Let the big business men in the flashy suits worry about the financials.
Re: Aussie Gamers Will Have to Wait an Extra Week for Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes
in Moe voice
Well, I guess it's suicide for me again...
Heh, nah, I couldn't care less. What's a week? Nothin', that's what. I'll be in Perth for a writer's conference, anyway.
Re: Review: Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes (PlayStation 4)
Great review, Ben.
I can't wait to play this. I'm curious as to how well in runs on PS3...
Re: Hands On: Scouting Out Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes on PS4
Can't wait to get this on PS3.
Re: Groan, Naughty Dog's The Last of Us Movie Is Just a Retelling of the Game's Story
I agree with Kell.
I said it before, and I'll say it again: this is a terrible, terrible idea.
It conveys the message that the game wasn't 'good enough'; that it can't stand on its own without a movie to 'legitimise' it.
People say that the games industry suffers from an inferiority complex... Gee, I wonder why?
I barely watch any movies anymore. It's all just the same crap over and over again. Peter Molyneux once compared the productivity of watching a movie to staring at a blank wall - and I'm inclined to agree with him. Games have to potential to be so much more, yet developers and publishers keep looking at Hollywood as some sort of 'holy grail' that should be emulated. What a load of toss.
Re: Feature: How You Helped Shape PS4 Sequel inFAMOUS: Second Son
Wonderful interview. Great job!
"We're not into reincarnation, or sci-fi, or anything like that. This is a realistic game, and we're trying to make everything as real as possible. That’s so that when we throw the powers on top, you'll believe in them, too."
I particularly liked this bit. The big problem I have with (mainstream) comics is that death has no meaning, and as such firms like DC and Marvel seem to enjoy insulting the intelligence of their readers by expecting them to take their plots seriously.
Looking forward to playing this game. Unfortunately, I won't be getting a PS4 for quite a while.
Re: SCEA President Jack Tretton Won't Be Dropping the Mic At Any More Sony Pressers
"While the timing is probably not the best, there’s unlikely to be a bigger narrative at play here."
Yes, there is. He's jumping a sinking ship. Sorry, but that's the way I see it.
Good luck to Shawn Layden - he has a hell of a job to do.
Re: Oh Dear, The Last Of Us Is Getting a Big Budget Movie Tie-in
Like PushSquare, I too have an immense distaste for videogame movies.
I mean, I can see Sly and Ratchet being okay. They're lighthearted cartoons.
But The Last of Us? No way Jose. What's the point? It devalues the game itself, and everything it tried to achieve.
Basically, Hollywood is saying "Yeah, that videogame thingy was cute, but TLOU doesn't matter until we MAKE IT INTO A MOVIE!11!1"
I hope it shares the same fate as the Uncharted and Metal Gear films - in the rubbish bin.
Re: What's inFAMOUS: Second Son's Developer Doing Now the PS4 Sequel Is Finished?
I'd like DLC based on Zeke. It'd be a DDR-style rhythm game where he dances on Cole's grave.
"Yeehoo! Try and boss me around now, brother!!!"
Re: You May Want to Keep This Metal Gear Solid V Statue Stashed Away
I honestly don't understand the furore over Quiet's design. She's not the first female character to wear a skimpy attire.
See - the entire history of comics and videogames.
I think people just love ripping into Kojima because he's a controversial figure - much like David Cage.
Re: This PS4 Error Will Corrupt Your Save Files and Make Your Games Unplayable
Oh dear... I just ordered my PS4. Better get a USB stick just in case!
Re: inFAMOUS: Second Son to Illustrate the Power of the PS4 at GDC 2014
@iSolipsistJudas - They have!
http://au.ign.com/articles/2013/11/14/ps4-infamous-second-son-bundle-announced
I can't wait. I've actually pre-ordered the Special Edition of Second Son and a PS4 separately; but this bundle looks awesome!
On topic; the Sucker Punch talk should be interesting. I can't wait to hear about their impressions of the PS4 hardware - and how much juice Second Son is actually using.
Re: Hideo Kojima Took a Break from Metal Gear Solid 5 to Give Knack a Try
Knack? Knack! KNAAAAAAAAAAACK!!!
Re: TGS 2013: Soul Sacrifice Delta Casts a Spell on PS Vita TV
I'll stick with my Vita, thanks.
Re: Weirdness: God of War Creator David Jaffe Has Finally Lost His Mind
I don't care if this Bartlet dude is even real. David Jaffe is an idiot who couldn't make a good game even if his life depended on it.
EDIT: Goddamn it, they roped me in. I just HAD to check out this Bartlet Jones chap. I came across this:
http://bartletjones.com/
WTF?
EDIT 2: I just want to clarify my anti-Jaffe comment. I just don't like his attitude. He uses vulgar language whenever he talks, and I hated how he mouthed-off to Miyamoto and trashed Mario Kart. His software doesn't impress; he's most famous for a generic hack n' slash game (GoW) and a generic vehicle combat game (Twisted Metal).
Re: TGS 2013: Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain Braves the Bad Weather
Has this shot straight to the top of my wishlist?
Why yes. Yes it has.
Re: Weirdness: Now Shuhei Yoshida's Sent David Cage to Sleep
Hah, that's cool.
Reminds me of the playfulness of Miyamoto, Iwata & Reggie.
Would we have ever seen Yamuchi (RIP) or Kutaragi ever do stuff like this?
Re: Reaction: Microsoft Gatecrashes Sony's Global PS4 Release Party
Won't be getting either this year. Still, it'll be fun watching Sony & Microsoft (and their respective fanboys) going at each other's throats. ATM, It looks like I'll be getting a PS4 before an Xbox One.
Re: GamesCom 2013: RIME Fuses All of Your Favourite Games in One Beautiful PS4 Sandbox
Wow, looks beautiful! Definitely one to watch!
Re: By the Nine! The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Voted Game of the Generation on Amazon
Glad to see an awful, buggy mess like Skyrim get some recognition for once.
/sarcasm
I agree with Sammy; I believe Wii Sports deserves the 'Game of the Generation' moniker (though Mario Galaxy 2 is my personal favourite). It ushered in a new era by expanding the videogame audience - and as a result became the highest selling (bundled) game of all time.
On Playstation though, my favourite was MGS4.
Re: Round Up: We've Played a Ton of PS4 Games, Read Our Thoughts
Can't wait for inFAMOUS, Killzone, Evil Within & MGSV!
I wonder if we'll get a new Jak & Daxter game...
Re: Opinion: The Problem with Knack, the PS4 Title That's Punching Above Its Weight
Not too hot on Knack, TBH. It just seems so generic; IMO, Sony's 'family friendly' titles don't have the same magic that is present in Nintendo's own games. I mean, Pikmin 3 looks 10x better on the 'inferior' Wii U.
With that said though, I actually think it's great that Knack is one of PS4's showcase games (as contradictory as that sounds). It conveys the message that Sony's isn't just about 'mature' (i.e.. violent & sweary) games, but rather a wide range of original experiences that caters to all ages and tastes.
Re: Mark Cerny Wasn't Joking When He Said the PS4 Won't Overheat
Just one of the reasons why I prefer consoles over PCs.
The Wii U is also fantastic when it come to energy efficiency.
Re: Ratchet & Clank Writer Goes Commando, Departs Insomniac Games
"We’d always hoped that Insomniac Games would be working on a full PlayStation 4 intergalactic adventure to accompany the upcoming Ratchet & Clank movie, but we suppose that that’s looking less likely now."
Why? Because a writer left? Hardly seems like a reason to end a series...
Re: Sony Almost Joined Forces with SEGA for the PlayStation
@ThreadShadow - Yeah. The generally-accepted story is that Nintendo betrayed Sony, but the reality was a lot more complicated. Sony weren't exactly innocent victims.
Unfortunately - and as much as I love the company - Sega's management was woefully incompetent. The biggest success the firm ever had was Sonic & the Mega Drive (which really was something; Nintendo was generally seen as untouchable back then). Besides that though, the Sega bosses didn't seem to have much clue; bitter competition between the Japanese and American branches was actually encouraged (which led to the cancellation of the American-made Katana console), as well as famous gaffes such as the cancellation of Sonic Xtreme, the 32X, Mega CD, the Saturn (complete with dodgy CPU), and the Dreamcast.
Of course, the actual creative talent of Sega were utterly awesome. Who knows what they could've achieved under Sony's management?
Re: First Impressions: Stomping Around with Knack on PS4
This looks very unimpressive, honesty. It looks incredibly generic - both in terms of gameplay and art-style. According to Digital Foundry, it doesn't even run all that smoothly either...
Re: Mark Cerny: I Hope Sony's Impact Will Match Nintendo's In Years To Come
@TheRealBatman - "Basically, Sony looks to the future while Nintendo is stuck in the past. Call me a fanboy if you want, I don't care."
Ummm... no.
The Wii and DS were designed the way they were BECAUSE Nintendo was looking toward the future; it realised that the games industry was stagnating, and needed a shot in the arm. The PS3 (as much as I love it) was a bloated, unfocused piece of hardware in the beginning. It was a product of Ken Kutaragi's arrogance and Sony's misjudgement of the evolution of the games market. The inclusion of 'Trophies' (i.e. Achievements), the Sixaxis, and the PS Move was proof of a confused Sony playing catch-up.
Now, thankfully, it seems things are different. Sony really seems to have changed for the better, and I applaud its efforts. Cerny,Yoshida, & co. really seem to be doing everything right.
@Zombie_Barioth - "The thing with Nintendo is while they're still pretty innovative on the hardware side I think they've been playing it a bit too safe on the software side lately."
Honestly, I think ANY company could be accused of this, if one were to try hard enough. Microsoft, Sony and Nintendo have their 'safe' games (Halo, God of War, NSMB), they have their 'bold' games (Quantum Break, The Last of Us, Nintendo Land) and they even have their 'quirky' games (Project Spark, Puppeteer, Game & Wario). IMO, I think the reason why there is a perception that Nintendo 'milk' their IP more is because of their design philosophies. Miyamoto and others base their projects on gameplay, before deciding what franchise suits that gameplay best; whilst Microsoft and Sony seem to place a greater emphasis on story and narrative. I've noticed that games like Uncharted, God of War & inFamous have a strong 'canon' that has a beginning, a middle and an end. Characters die, and stories end, which creates a need for 'new stories' - AKA new IP. Compare this to Mario and Zelda; stories that don't have a strong canon - because the story is not the primary focus. Mario doesn't grow old, goes through numerous epiphanies, and dies at the end - and neither does Link. Nintendo's characters are stuck in a perpetual Never Never Land - there is no constant cycle of death and rebirth (like an IP being canned, before going through a reboot - like the ever-suffering comic book industry).
Again, it all boils down to creative mantras. Neither approaches are 'right' nor 'wrong' - just as long as they are fun to play, IMO.
Re: Reaction: Microsoft May Have Reacted, But PS4 Is in Control
Ehhhh, I think I'll still be sticking with PS4, personally.
Just because Microsoft made a few token gestures to make their Xbox One slightly less abhorrent, doesn't mean their past idiocy and greed should be swept under the carpet.
Plus, I'm sick to death of Halo.
Re: inFAMOUS: Second Son Was Planned for PS4 Way Back in 2010
Really can't wait for this game! The touchpad controls actually sound pretty cool, and the smoke powers sound awesome.
Also, it's great that Delsin isn't just another generic white guy protagonist. And this is coming from a generic white guy.
Re: Sony: Developer Engagement Is Higher on PS4 Than Any Previous Platform
Software droughts happen to every new console. I don't know why people think the Vita and Wii U are unique examples (well, aside from stupidity...).
Every company promises the same thing, but the drought still happens. Just wait for the 'PS4 IS DOOMED' idiocy to spread like a virus...
Re: Who Fancies Some Killzone: Shadow Fall Technical Stats?
"In addition to the aforementioned snippet, the Dutch developer also revealed that the demo featured 60 AI characters, 940 entities, 8,200 physics objects, 500 particle systems, 120 voices, and 110 ray casts. Phew. Characters are currently being built using 40,000 polygons, a figure four times greater than the models from Killzone 3."
And yet the game doesn't look impressive to me. Not in the least.
Still, it IS only an unfinished launch game...the mind boggles at thinking about PS4 games 5 or 6 years from now.
EDIT: @charlesnarles - LOL, that's how I read it at first too.
Re: Talking Point: Sony Must Solve the PlayStation Vita's Memory Woes
I bought a 32g memory card about a year ago, in preparation for my eventual Vita purchase.
I have not yet bought a Vita. I think the price is putting me off...I'm just waiting for it to plummet.
Re: Unsurprisingly, Japanese Gamers Want a Monster Hunter Title for Vita
Unfortunately for Sony, it seems Nintendo have Monster Hunter and Dragon Quest under lock and key. With these titles and Pokemon, Nintendo seems to be unstoppable in Japan. However, I think the fact that Sony trying to create the next 'big thing' in the form of Soul Sacrifice is an admirable move. I think time will tell whether the game takes Japan by storm, as Japanese gamers are a stubbrn bunch. Who knows? Monster Hunter was once a new, obscure IP once upon a time...
Re: Opinion: Next Xbox Development Woes Could Spell Trouble for the PS4
@Jaz007 - Yes, Sony DID work on motion-sensing tech years ago; but the PS Move WAS a direct response to the Wii. Sony even admitted as such.
Using the same principle; Nintendo did not invent touchscreen gaming, but companies like Apple and Sony only began to adopt the tech after Nintendo proved its viability with DS.
@3Above - There was a recent interview with Miyamoto; who stated that Nintendo comes up with a core gaming concept first, before deciding what franchise woud fit it best. I would argue that this causes the perception of the company being too reliant on a set number of franchises (i.e. Mario and Zelda). Whilst I do agree that Nintendo like to jam Mario in a lot of titles (he WAS designed to be versatile, after all), in reality, they are equally as innovative in mixing-up their series' mechanics. Few would say that Super Mario Bros. was the same as Super Mario Bros. 3, or that Mario 64 was identical to Super Mario Galaxy. Likewise, the Zelda games display a lot more variety than they're given credit for; with Skyward Sword being very bold in its new design choices. Regarding Nintendo's creativity with Wii software, I guess we'll have to just agree to disagree on that front.
In regards to motion controls, well, time will ultimately tell if they are indeed a passing fad. With that said, the Wii U Game Pad uses gyroscopic controls and Wii Remotes. Also, the new Xbox is very likely to adopt a new Kinect system, so it seems that motion isn't entirely dead yet. (EDIT: Oh, that's right, the PS4 controller also incorporates PS Move tech). New technology tends to go through a 'rest' period before undergoing a resurgence; as seen with 3D and Virtual Reality (Oculus Rift). With that said, there were actually a few examples where the Wii Remote proved to be superior alternative to a regular joypad (IMO of course). I felt that Skyward Sword's swordplay was simply superb, and proved that motion controls could possibly be a viable evolution to videogame input methods. Likewise, the Wiimote was excellent for FPS games; and was something I regarded as a genuine leap for the genre (imagine my disappointment in seeing Killzone PS4 rely on a 25-year old control system). I can't be alone in thinking this; after all, COD: Black Ops 2 on Wii U supports the Wii Remote set-up, and I've seen many other people ask for future FPS games to continue supporting the set-up. Also, the Wiimote was great for point n' click titles.
Finally, why should the Wii have been "just another Nintendo system?" What does that even mean?
Re: Opinion: Next Xbox Development Woes Could Spell Trouble for the PS4
@3Above - I see what you're saying.
However, you say that the Wii's hardware sales were successful. Well, that kinda helps me prove my point. Nintendo made big money on the console; Microsoft and Sony didn't. In another thread, I mentioned that both companies have lost $8 billion and $3.5 billion respectively this generation. Great software sales for both X360 and PS3 didn't exactly help ease these losses; with over 130 developers & publishers going out of business.
Also, the Wii had MANY titles that passed the 1 million sales mark (which is especially good, considering the lower budgets of the games), not to mention mega-sellers like Mario Kart Wii (selling 35 million units) Wii Fit 1 & 2 (43 million) & NSMBW (26 million) - these are numbers that Activision could only wish for their COD games; not to mention Nintendo's 'lesser' successes such as Galaxy 1 & 2, Metroid and Skyward Sword - which all still sold millions.
Still, I do realise that the majority of 3rd party games DID suffer on the console; and fingers of blame could be pointed at various guilty parties all day. Unfortunately, I can easily see the same thing happen with Wii U.
That being said, it's pretty disingenuous of you to say that the Wii was only a success in "the minds of some fans". No, it was a success both financially, and creatively. Don't believe me? Then why are the Mario Galaxys the highest rated games of this gen? Why did Skyward Sword get praised by many outlets for 'proving' the superiority of motion controls? Why did Wii Sports become a mega-phenomenon that helped expand the games industry? Why? Why? Why? Even Al Alcorn - co-founder of Atari - praised Nintendo for the Wii; whilst Will Wright called it the only 'true' next-gen console. Heck, if you want, I can post a giganto list of great Wii games. The stigma of 'no' games can be attributed to mountains of shovelware over the years, and (IMO) an inherant bias of the gaming media that preferred to cover the 'shiner' and 'hardcore' HD consoles, instead of the 'casual' Wii.
Also, I want to mention the fact that both Sony and Microsoft saw the need to directly copy the Wii's big selling-points; with PS Move for the former, and Kinect & 'Avatars' for the latter.
Oh, and again;
Sony & MS - swallowed by debt.
Nintendo - NOT swallowed by debt.
That's the bottom line.
Re: Guerrilla Squashed Key Killzone: Shadow Fall Bugs on the Eve of the PS4 Reveal
@ViciousDS - Yep, it'll be a launch title.
Definitely a ballsy move by Guerilla. I just hope the game won't simply be a shinier-Killzone 2 (though it probably will be).
I'd love to see Guerilla pull a rabbit out of its hat, and do a 'Halo'; that is, unleash an incredible FPS that leaves all others in the dust. One can dream...
@TheRealBatman - I don't know where you got that info from. Guerilla have only just started developing on the official PS4 dev-kits. Before then, they've been building Killzone on a PC.
Re: Opinion: Next Xbox Development Woes Could Spell Trouble for the PS4
@3Above - Well, they weren't worried about the Wii, either...
On topic. Even if Microsoft DID gain the exclusive services of Respawn Entertainment, I seriously doubt it would pose a threat to Sony. The company has already lost its biggest exclusive 3rd party series (Metal Gear Solid), but that is the least of its worries. 3rd party exclusives are pretty much a thing of the past; an exception, rather than the rule. It is very doubtful that Microsoft are spending big money on attaining 3rd party interests; the company has lost $8 billion this generation, thanks to the RROD and flops such as the Zune, Windows Phone, Surface and Windows 8. It can't just throw around money forever.
But really, this story (the way I see it) is a reflection of a greater issue; the stagnation of the traditional console model. Things are beginning to implode, with high development costs and too much red tape. Returns are diminishing on all fronts, and both Microsoft and Sony are surrounded by debt.
http://playeressence.com/microsoft-and-sony-are-closer-to-going-third-party-than-nintendo-lets-get-the-facts-straight/
Sony in particlar is in bad shape:
http://www.notenoughshaders.com/2012/09/08/the-ten-year-decline-of-sony/
Still, Sony have alot of great studios and IP, and seem to be going all-out with the PS4. Its biggest strength over Microsoft is its franchises and brand loyalty (IMO). Hopefully the 'all or nothing' gamble taken by the PS4 will pay-off!
Re: Price Cut Prompts PlayStation Vita Sell Outs in Japan
Great news for Vita. Can't wait to see the official sales data!
@artemisthemp - I agree. The memory card fiasco has been very detrimental for Vita, IMO. Absolutely insane that Sony didn't go with something standard like SD Cards, and the decision has bit them on the ass.
When you're forced to pay $100 for 32g, then something's definitely wrong.
Re: You'll Be Able to Download 100GB Movies to Your PlayStation 4
I look forward to not using 4K.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? - Issue One
Currently in my second playthrough of MGR: Revengeance.
Blue wig + Murasama FTW!
Re: PlayStation All-Stars DLC To Bring Isaac Clarke, Zeus and an Unfinished Swan-Inspired Stage
@rastamadeus - Having Knack and Delsin Rowe as DLC would actually be a really good idea, for the reasons you've already listed. I would also add the protagonist of Killzone: Shadow Fall, and levels/characters based on Puppeteer, Soul Sacrifice, The Last of Us, Rain, Tearaway, and (maybe) The Witness & Beyond: Two Souls. It would build awareness for these upcoming games, which wouldn't exactly hurt Sony.
Still, it's good to see this game is still being supported, despite SuperBot's departure
Re: Reaction: Practicality and Power Paves Positive Start for PS4
I liked it. It really seemd that Sony was incredibly focused with the PS4, and there was an air of no-nonsense about it.
People who have been complaining about the event reaffirm my views of the internet being a petty, petty place. Seriously? You're actually complaining about the absence of the console itself?
Christ.
Sony, Nintendo, and Microsoft are all in the same boat. No matter what they do, people will complain and moan about it. I predicted that the whiney vitriol directed toward the Wii U would evntually be directed at Sony (and eventually Microsoft), and I was right. People just want to complain and be negative - simply because they can.
Well, I'm NOT one of those people. Sony did a great job, and I'm really excited about the future - just like Nintendo and the Wii U.
Re: Guerrilla: PS4 Development Isn't As Expensive As You Think
Hmm, interesting comments there, especially considering someone from Naughty Dog (can't remember who) said he was terrified of the next generation.
Also, let's not forget that making AAA games is still an incredibly costly business. About 130 devs/publishers (and counting) have bought the farm this generation; a generation where 1 - 2 million sales is considered a flop (hello Darksiders and Max Payne 3).
Re: Microsoft Takes a Shot at Sony's PlayStation 4 Reveal
Ooohhh snap, Sammy!
Of all three major consoles, I find myself least excited for Durango. Indeed, I wasn't too fond of the Xbox 360; it was a horribly designed console with very few meaningful exclusives and a rip-off subscription service. Plus, Microsoft ruined Rare. Boo!
Re: Capcom Announces Panta Rhei Engine and New Deep Down IP
What happened to the MT Framework engine?
Well, regardless, Deep Down looks flippin' amazing! Just watching that fight with the dragon in the dark had me on the edge of my seat!
Imagine what it would be like actually PLAYING it...