Dark Souls Design A Shield Contest Could Get YOU In The Game...

Got talent? Want to see YOUR artwork in glorious 3D in one of this year's most anticipated releases by one of the world's best game developers AND have millions of gamers guarding their fleshy bits with your custom gear? Well, then... get on over to the Dark Souls Facebook page, LIKE it and sign up for this awesome contest. Full press release below the jump. Now, if I only had enough time to design a killer shield of my own...

Atlus Shows Off Its Girl Catherine, Some Still Sexually (and Otherwise) Confused

Last evening (or afternoon if you were on the West Coast), Atlus did an incredible (and lengthy) Ustream demo of its upcoming PS3/360 game Catherine and based on the number of press attendees plus a decent sized group of just over 20 non-press oglers, this was their most successful streaming event to date. It's no wonder, given the interest shown in the game ever since screens and videos of the Japanese version started popping up on the Internet and gamers started begging for a localization.

While the single player mode was the main draw of the event, there was a bit of multiplayer shown that made for a really nice surprise. I have the feeling THAT mode just might break up a friendship or two in the same way The Adventures of Cookie & Cream did when things got too out of hand. Then again, in Catherine's MP, it's every sheep-horned man for himself (and it's a damn good thing it's only two players onscreen, given the hilariously zippy pace and violent pillow swinging action going on with the frantic block climbing).

Ace Combat: Assault Horizon "Fly-Through" Gameplay Trailer

Namco Bandai's upcoming PS3/360 flight shooter packs a serious action movie punch with some supremely visceral combat sequences, oil "bleeding" planes and plenty of destruction in and out of the sky. I say give these guys the Colony Wars IP (and some top-notch writers) and see what they can do with space combat. But then again, I tend to over think that sort of stuff a wee bit too much.

FREE Movie Tickets (ACT FAST)... If You're In New York City, That Is...

If you're in the NYC area and want something really cool and FREE to do and see this coming July 13, check this offer out from New York-Tokyo.com:

FREE Movie Ticket giveaway to the NY premiere screening of the award-winning Japanese film "VILLAIN". 7PM, Wednesday, July 13, 2011 at Big Cinemas Manhattan in New York City!

HOW: Head over to the New York -Tokyo Facebook page and LIKE them for your FREE ticket.
Under the VILLAIN FREE Ticket header, write either "one ticket" or "two tickets". Simple.

Star Odyssey Released - Time To Dig Out The Genesis!

Awesome. SuperFighter Team has released its latest retro game project, the long-awaited Star Odyssey for the Sega Genesis and Mega Drive systems. The game (known as Blue Almanac in Japan) was one of a number of projects for Sega's 16-bit console that was started but never fully completed in terms of an English localization, but thanks to the dedication and a ton of hard work by Brandon Cobb the rest of SFT, it's finally done with many improvements and ready for purchase HERE.

As usual, expect a high-quality package complete with a the game cartridge, clam shell case, full-color manual and art insert. As someone who remembers reading a preview article for this one back in the day (and later ended up buying and playing carefully through some of the Japanese version without knowing a bit of the language), you better believe I just ordered a copy. I'll post a review around the end of July. In the meantime, go dig out that Genny from the closet (or go buy one cheap on ebay) and shell out the $48 (including US shipping) for this resurrected sci-fi RPG gem - I'm betting you won't regret it one bit.

Resident Evil: The Mercenaries 3D Launch Trailer

Crap. This means I'll need to think about buying a 3DS after all. And here I am, trying to save up to get my damn passport renewed, pay for meds and a few other important things. Oh well... I guess I don't need that extra kidney after all (and a 3DS IS cheaper than an iPad!)... The game looks pretty darn good so far (although you kind of don't see that much of it in action, the visuals are pretty spectacular).

Insomniac's Ted Price Addresses The Whiny Crowd That Doesn't Quite Get It Yet...

Here's an example of a solid effort and helping some folks grow up a little. Some of the super hard-core (read: less intelligent) Insomniac fanboys, many who want the company to move backward into old IP territory have been practically shooting flames from their little ears ever since the learned their favorite company was going multi-playform and things got worse when their new partnership with EA revealed what's looking like a cool little new IP, OverStrike. While I'd prefer to let the goons stew in their juices 'til they pop, Price is a nicer guy than I am as he went to the trouble to explain a bit how the real world works outside the confines on a TV set and the insides of certain small-brained creatures. Excellent. Now, lets hope some of these folks GET IT, move on and enjoy gaming on any console Insomniac makes games for rather than the sound of air escaping from their rant-filled lips and other orifices.

5 for $5 Bundle Gets A Sixth Free

Hey, cheapskate! Yes, you - you know that in this crappy economy there's no shame in wanting to spend LESS for your games. Of course, indie games have been the way to go for ages and while I always think these games should sell for more, I can't stop folks from tossing stellar deals into your laps from time to time when they want to. Here's one more for you: The truly AWESOME 5 for $5 Bundle from Lunar Workshop that features some pretty darn cool games guaranteed to please while making your wallet happy. Of course, your wallet can't play games, so maybe you'll be twice as happy, hmmmm?

Review: Duke Nukem Forever

Platform: PS3 (Also on Xbox 360/PC)

Developer(s): Gearbox/Piranha/Tryptych/3D Realms

# of Players 1 (online 2-)

Rating: M (Mature)

Official Site

Score: B-


With an on and off development cycle lasting over a decade through a few different studios, when all is said and done it's pretty much the Duke Nukem sequel many die-hard fans were expecting. On the other hand, In terms of gameplay it's also so intentionally nostalgic that its more vocal critics will feel it really should have been in stores over a decade ago. If you're in the proper frame of mind with a decently twisted sense of humor, it's both a backhanded compliment as well as a recommendation. At the end of the day, your full enjoyment of Duke Nukem Forever revolves VERY highly on whether or not you've played and enjoyed Duke Nukem 3D and can set your expectations to hover around a reasonable enough level. Pretend it's been a year or two later and not fourteen and the game will be a decent amout of fun. On the other hand, if you're expecting DNF to be some sort of benchmark for gameplay, visuals and storytelling, you'll more likely than not be pretty disappointed.

Binary Domain Story Trailer: Nothing "New", But That's Just Fine...

Holy cats, it's summer already. Here's a look at a story trailer from Sega's upcoming sci-fi shooter. Sure, it's a bit generic, but at the end of the day, it's all about the game, the gameplay and whether both are fun to dive into. Speaking of, yes, the Duke review is late - I'm just about to complete the game for the third time just to prove a point. It's a lot better than the reviews say, but it seems not a lot of today's gamers (and sadly, some critics) have bothered to go back and play Duke Nukem 3D so they could see what was intended. Don't worry Duke, I'm coming to save your ass!

Dungeon Siege III TV Ad Might Be Accidentally Meta...

I'm older than the hills, so hearing the music in this ad zapped me back to my childhood when I'd occasionally plop in front of the TV and be baffled by The Courtship of Eddie's Father. OK, not too baffled, as I was enough of a clever kid to "get" most of the show. Anyway, I'm not sure if Square Enix' PR department planned this, but the ad is a bit meta if you know your TV and film history. As for the game itself, it looks mighty darn good and I'm hoping that Obsidian has hit the nail on the head in single player or co-op modes, as I just LOVE a well-made dungeon hack. DS3 arrives on June 21, 2011 for PS, PS3 and Xbox 360...

Duke Nukem Forever Shows Up, Hell Does Not Freeze Over (Details at 11)...

Of course, I was away when UPS dropped my PS3 copy off. Twice last week. Oops. Fortunately, I did get back in time today to grab it and will finally get some quality time with the man himself shortly. As I'm in the process of still winding down from E3 and need to pick up my prescription, I'm not settling down with the game 'til later when I can set up everything I need, ignore the phone and other distractions and dive in. Based on the notes from a few fellow editor-types who've already played a chunk of the single player (and my own hands-on time with earlier builds), I can already predict this one's going to be a total blast, old-school warts and all... back in a bit with a review.

E3 2011: Mass Effect 3 Is One Of My Games of the Show (Or, Yup, It's All That)

As solid as the previous installments were, it looks as if Bioware is pulling out all the stops even further for the third installment. Refined, faster combat and a slicker visual upgrade should give the game even more appeal to the action gamer crowd and of course, that character interaction Bioware is famous for is in full effect. While ME3 was one of the games of the show for me (sequel division) I'm hoping the strangely addictive mining mini-game makes a return (with a few tweaks to make it easier to hop into for newbies) and we get more side missions that add depth to the overall plot. The fight to (hopefully) save Earth begins on the PC. PS3 and Xbox 360 March 6, 2012.

E3 2011: Deep Black Trailer

I'd been looking at a few screens from this underwater action game for a while and this cool video is making me want tho start taking swimming lessons. I'm hoping the game manages to do something different other than just be a great-looking twist on the usual run 'n gun game. So far, I'm definitely not complaining at all...

Nintendo @E3 2011: Day 2 and 3 Wrap-Ups

Bang and POW! Here are Nintendo's own E3 videos featuring a ton of cool games and info. I'll also be posting all of the 3DS and Wii trailers starting next week in case you missed them. Wii U videos as as well are coming. As for the stock drop as a result of the Wii U announcement... Hell, am I the ONLY one who got that darn presentation? Analysts are dopes ESPECIALLY if they're not game developers or gamers. All I'll say is this sort of inane speculation that drives stock prices down is ridiculous.

E3 2011: Capcom Booth Tour

Always a hit with gamers and journalist-types, Capcom's E3 booth was PACKED with great upcoming titles this year. Check out the amazing amount of fun stuff coming your way games (and see some of the people who make them possible). BTW, Asura's Wrath, Dragon's Dogma and Street Fighter X Tekken are my three most-wanted games, but I'll gladly take them all. No Monster Hunter in sight in this video, but give it time, folks. I'm sure Capcom hasn't forgotten you loyal guys and gals...

E3 2011: Dark Souls Producer Interview

OK, I lied (well, not really) - I'm actually waiting for a call before my travel plans, so I figured I'd post a few more things I liked. Here's a peek at Dark Souls, thanks to Namco Bandai's crack interview team. This one is going to be big, that's for sure and finally, Xbox 360 owners can see what PS3 users who snapped up Demon's Souls have been raving about.

Back In a Bit... Post-E3 Version

Yes, I'm exhausted and taking the weekend off - I'll be compiling a ton of notes on the way back and will be running updates and trailers all next week along with a few reviews I started before the show. Expect some game of the show picks (Arkham City, Skyrim, Wii U, some indie stuff, Vita, blah, blah blah...)

E3 2011: Afterfall InSanity Trailer - Horror Express, Indeed!

Yikes. Polish developer Nicholas Entertainment Group has a superbly scary treat for PC gamers who like things nice and freaky. Turn out the lights and pull up a chair, but point it toward a door, because you'll be running for the hills in a few seconds. Looks great and yes, I want to see this get moved to a console at some point so MORE people can play it.

E3 2011: The Lord of the Rings: War In the North Trailer: Massively Impressive Mullitplayer

Like a lot of you out there, I'm a HUGE admirer of Snowblind Studios' gorgeous work, so every bit of info on this one has been swallowed whole and digested so it's absolutely on my most wanted list. This tiny teaser of things to come shows promise and I can't wait to dive into the more brutal (and accurate) version of Middle-Earth the team has crafted. Let's hope there's at least ONE portable version in the works (Vita, Vita, Vita!). Even if I don't magically get a review copy, I'm buying this outright, day one.

E3 2011: Bastion and Crimson Alliance: Beautiful, Brillaint (And They Should Be In Boxes!)

Games like these deserve more than just a mere XBLA or PC download. Stick a few copies on disc and get it out to retail so you get more people picking it up. Hell, it'll be a great "impulse" buy either direct from the developer's site, an online retailer that does both packaged and download content. Indie developers SuperGiant Games and Certain Affinity have winners here and I want to see as many people as possible grooving on their work who don't have a Xbox 360 in the house (not everyone does) or access to a high-speed connection.

E3 2011: Hawken: Mech -Stomping Indie Powerhouse

WOW is pretty much my tired-ass response to seeing this phenomenal game in action. Armored Core meets Phantom Crash meets Mechwarrior = all kinds of spectacular. Yeah, yeah, it's OLD footage, but heck, the game is being made by under ten people (six), so I'm cutting these chaps some slack for the moment. PC-only, but according to that G4 interview, console deals are indeed a possibility. Right now, the game is multiplayer only, but I'd love to see a well-done single player campaign added just so this awesome game engine isn't wasted on the "pew-pew" drool cup crowd who just wants to clank around and shoot each other in the head while bragging about their tricked out PC configurations. You don't need any psychic powers to predict Adhesive Games is going to be one of those developers on everyone's lips once their "little" game is completed. WOW.

Sly Cooper: Thieves In Time Trailer

For the first PS3 Sly adventure, Sucker Punch hands off the development chores to the more than capable team at Sanzaru and based on this sneak peek, die-hard Sly fans have nothing to fret about. Go pick up that cool Sly Collection if you haven't, by the way. I'm gathering we'll be getting a longer adventure this time out and perhaps some sort of multiplayer or perhaps other online content, but I personally prefer a straight up single-player focused story-driven game. Oh, and some sort of Vita functionality (or a standalone portable version). We'll see how it goes...

inFamous 2 Launch Trailer/TV Ad: Kevin Butler Still Has A Job!

While it might seem like an odd strategy to release such a huge game during E3, Sony's doing all it can to get PS3 owners glued and wired back into a more normal gaming life. Go Sony! The rather funny Kevin Butler TV ad for the game is below. I guess Sony had to keep the man busy even with their more serious tone at this year's press conference. Now I just need to make time to play this somewhere in all this updating and running around. That mission editor deal sounds pretty spectacular, that's for sure...

E3 2011: Earth Defense Force Insect Armageddon Trailer (UK)

Yes, it's the UK version (Namco Bandai is publishing the game there), but sonce D3 hasn't posted this yet, I'm running this version here (which is the same save for an ESRB descriptor at the beginning and D3Publisher's logo at the end) just to keep you EDFIA fans happy and ready for July 5, 2011. EDF! EDF!

E3 2011: Armored Core V Trailer

Or: More stuff I like a LOT, Vol. Whatever (I've lost count thanks to too many games in previous volumes)- One of the best mech series on a console is back in action in this new CG trailer. FromSoftware is pretty much at the top of their game, I'd say... now where are the Wii U and PS Vita versions? Give it time, I say...

E3 2011: Check Out The Atlus Booth!

So, what's going on with one of my favorite publishers? Take a super-quick tour of their E3 booth and find out, that's what! Now, if only I could get them to fly to NYC one day with all their wonderful games...

E3 2011: Captain America Prologue

Can Cap rescue Sega from the not quite stellar superhero game doldrums? Well, I think it can, but I guess it's up to you guys and gals with the wallets to decide. Here's a look at a cool CG movie from the upcoming game. Remember kids, "When he's led to a fight and a duel is due, then the red and the white and the blue will come through..."

E3 2011: Nintendo Has Its Day In the Sun (Indoors)

Here's Nintendo's always sunny take on its E3 press conference. I'm still surprised as hell SO many so-called professionals were "confused" by the Wii U unveiling. Reggie? Call me - I got it. Boy did I get it... Now I hope to hell all the developers that get cooking making games for the new console get it as well...

E3 2011: Star Trek Trailer Wows So Early

As I noted in my Sony press event post, for a pre-alpha build, this is pretty cool looking and shows the dev team is on the right track. Of course, the final proof is in the actual finished product, but so far, it's looking pretty decent in my book...

Battlefield 3: Thunder Run E3 SP Gameplay

Dice's proprietary Frostbite 2 engine is probably the best one I've see to date (and I've seen a LOT of game engines at work). I'd love to see it applied in a few other genres, but I'd gather the folks who made it can get the most out of it. As you can see above, for example.

E3 2011: Killer Freaks Trailer

As I'm always on the hunt for oddball games, here's one of those "What the..." peeks for another upcoming UbiSoft title. This one looks pretty interesting, but I'd gather some hands-on time will tell all...

Dragon's Crown E3 Trailer: Oh, Vanillaware , You Don't Disappoint

I've wanted a Princess Crown remake for YEARS, but Vanillaware didn't listen. Nope, not at all - they went and make yet another COMPLETELY new game, this time with single and online multiplayer modes, more of that incredible hand-drawn art they're known for and yes, it looks spectacular. Why doesn't anyone listen to me anymore? Oh wait - this time it's a GREAT thing I got ignored. UTV Ignition has come out of the game with ANOTHER great game. If you're not all over this and El Shaddai: Ascension of the Metatron (go play the demo NOW - it's incredible), you're not a gamer, you're a stamp collector in the wrong hobby. My PS3 is VERY happy and the kidney I'll sell for a PS Vita is dancing around in anticipation!

I'll update with screens later - no matter what you play, this one's a MUST-buy game, folks.

Overstrike: Insomniac's Breakout Cross-Platform (Soon To Be) Hit

Well now... I've very wisely learned to throw out ALL my expectations of what I "want" to see a developer do long ago, but I'll admit to expecting Insomniac to do something "special" for it's first ever multi-platform release. Based on their amazing work with their own proprietary tech since the PlayStation days, the love for offbeat weaponry and all sorts of cartoon-inspired humor, Overstrike seems like the perfect blend. Of course, the hugely dedicated fan base their games have insures this one will be BIG stuff, so even if it's an AAA-quality mash-up of Brute Force 2 meets X-Squad with a dash of Gene Troopers*, gamers will still eat it up. Also, I'll bet real money this gets a Wii U release just because I KNOW Ted Price and co. have been itching to do SOMETHING for a Nintendo platform... just you wait and see...

*Yeah, I play WAY too many not so good games, folks. Anyway, I can't wait to see some gameplay!

EA E3 2011 Press Conference

Yup, it's the whole darn thing warts and all, so pull up a chair and grab a nice cold drink if you haven't seen it yet. I'm buried under news, trailers and assorted updates, but who isn't? Off to NOT raise some hell and look at more games - back later...

Wii U: Nintendo Changes The Game (AGAIN)

Well, who DIDN'T think they weren't going to blow minds at today's conference? Showing off the new controller while not babbling about the console's tech specs (or showing the console itself) was an excellent move that baffled some editor-types and online posters. YES, the unseen actual system does HD 1080p graphics and based on the slick teaser videos and live announcements, we'll be seeing the same SKUS on the PS3 and 360 for some key upcoming titles with Wii U functionality.

I like the HUD moved to the tablet idea (more real estate on your TV screen for game action) in some titles, the sketchpad (yes!) and other cool things. Sure, the console's price point (and additional tablet controllers) will be the wallet kicker for most folks, but we won't get that information until sometime next year, I'm thinking. I'm sure it's not going to be cheap, but Nintendo has a way with showing tech that has many consumers more than eager to pay up. Cue Miyamoto saying "ITEM GET!", a live orchestra playing some Zelda music and people reaching for their wallets.

EA jumping on board so strongly is a big plus for sports fans (and maybe Dead Space 2 is headed to the console along with Mass Effect at some point) and seeing Ken Levine's eyes twinkle means I bet there's a Big Daddy or three coming to Nintendo's new system at some point. As well as a LOT of other stuff to appease the hardcore, Nintendo die-hards and others. Skeptics beware... this is going to get REALLY interesting as developers start peeling back the covers on their Wii U projects over the coming months...

More later - I've got some more games to see...

Random E3 Thoughts...

Yeah, yeah, some of these are goofy or short enough to be tweets, but I'm old school (and low tech, as I'm still a poor bastard). In no particular order: AND after the jump, hah!

E3 Day 1 - Sony: Apologia et Vita (or Something Like That)

Sony's press conference was exactly how I thought it would be in terms of tone, but that's a good thing. No Kevin Butler this year to joke it up with the crowd. a lot of announcements, a lot of exclusives, a re-naming of the NGP and even more solid-looking games for the new handheld. Jack Tretton was almost sheepish in laying out Sony's apology to gamers and publishers who've been suffering with all this hacking nonsense since April. But after the frowny times for a minute or two, things got rolling with plenty of first-party power.

E3 Day 1 - Microsoft: Surprises and No Surprises Balance It Out...

So far, so good, I suppose. Microsoft kicked off the day with a pretty cool conference that revealed a much stronger focus on Kinect that in this writer's opinion, should have been last year's approach. Sure, 10 million plus units were shifted at retail since the launch, but many "core" gamers have ignored the peripheral for a few reasons (most of them based on misconceptions). Microsoft set out to change that big time and seems to have succeeded thanks to integrating Kinect functionality into nearly everything they showed off. More precise Kinect functionality (for the most part).

Some Quick Thoughts on "Transfarring"

OK, so we all know Hideo Kojima is a genius. My question is: why the heck didn't Sony think of this idea when the PSP was initially launched? As soon as I heard they were doing a portable unit, one of my top wishlist items was the ability to either link PS2/PS3 content to the unit for on the go action or have new games where portable versions had data that could be transferred back and forth between consoles. Anyway, now that "Transfarring" is not only a reality, but a new "word" gamers worldwide will be speaking whenever they hit the road with a Sony handheld, let's hope it's adopted by as many developers as possible as soon as possible.

Oh, and ANY sort of data transfer system NEEDS to be offline enabled as well just in case the PSN hacks never stop rolling out on a regular basis. Just a thought...

Dark Souls Collector's Edition Makes Me Do A Double Take

...along with a half-assed backflip (I'm SO out of shape). In case you didn't hear the news, both the standard and "limited" editions of the game are the SAME price. Interesting, considering the trend of charging MORE for that extra stuff by most other publishers. I hope this is the beginning of a new deal for gamers, particularly in an economy that's still quite lousy for many.

Here's a quick clip from the press release:

The Dark Souls Collector’s Edition can be pre-ordered for $59.99, the same price as the standard edition while supplies last, and will include a limited edition art book containing premium illustrations of characters and environments from the game, a mini-strategy guidebook, behind-the-scenes videos from the development studio detailing various stages of game concept, design and building, and the game’s soundtrack for digital download. All of this will come packaged with the standard edition game in a custom-designed metal case.

In the words of the great philosophers: They got my money already. Of course, you might want to stock up on foam bricks to throw at the TV, a few boxes of Kleenex for those crying jags and a pillow to bite down on hard when the game kicks your butt all over the room, but that's all optional.

E3 2011: El Shaddai Gets July 26 Release Date, More Lovely Screens

Looking at UTV/Ignition's upcoming El Shaddai: Ascension of the Metatron in screenshots, concept art and wallpapers these past months has been like walking through a museum made of dreams (and a few wicked nightmares), but seeing the game in motion makes things click a bit more into reality. Of course, I'm one of those cranky, crusty old-schoolers that doesn't believe EVERY game needs to be 110% innovative in EVERY area to be pure fun. Therefore, even if it turns out to be a straightforward third-person experience, the outstandingly bizarre visuals go a long way in carrying the rest of the game. Granted, the overall narrative is certainly groundbreaking in terms of subject matter and how it's been translated from a "That might not be a good game idea" chunk of religious text to "Holy Hell on a stick, I really NEED to play this just to see how the story turns out!" slice of current-gen awesomeness. July 26, 2011 is the release date - let's just call this an instant classic in the making for now and leave it at that.

Konami's Pre-E3 Video Is Brilliant Stuff

Absolutely one of the best and funniest presentations I've seen, Konami provided a pre-E3 showing that was informative and innovative while showing off a number of upcoming titles. I'm absolutely grabbing that Metal Gear Solid HD collection, the Silent Hill HD collection, NeverDead and a few other games. Kojima's got a great sense of humor as you'll see, but his "Transfarring" idea is one of the best uses of PSp/NGP and PS3 connectivity to date. Amusingly enough, I'd thought of this when the PSP was announced, but I don't make games. Still, why Sony didn't do this (or think of it) is a bit odd. Nevertheless, it's a phenomenal idea I can see other publishers jumping on, particularly in this day and age of people whining about games being too short or not getting enough value out of that sixty bucks. Anyway, go watch the video and enjoy the cool surprise at the end...

Tomb Raider Trailer Has Lara All Wet and Dirty

Lovely. I'd say Crystal Dynamics has done it up right (again), although any gal gamers out there expecting to see a mid to late 30's Lara Croft doing her thing this time out might be a wee bit disappointed. Still, relaunching the franchise with the younger Lara does indeed allow for the dev team to get all new moves, new characters and new environments into the mix. As long as it doesn't take a full clip to kill some guard trying to beat her head in with a club or a bulletproof monkey, this one should be a smash. Square Enix surely knew what it was doing with that Eidos merger. Between this, the new Hitman and Deus Ex: HR, it's going to be a HUGE year for them, I predict...

PrE3: Sega Lineup Packed With Aliens, Hedgehogs & Other Warm, Fuzzy Stuff...

Yeah, yeah, Thor wasn't all that hot (except for the DS version, which rocked in an solid, reliable old-school way - go WayForward!), but let's move on, shall we? It looks as if Sega has a pretty smoking 2011-2012 lineup, as you'll see from the long list below the jump.

PrE3: Bethesda: RAGE & Prey 2 Trailers

Yes, they both look amazing so far and yes, they're both quite different in terms of what they bring to the VERY crowded FPS market. And yes, I'm planning on sinking a lot of time into both at some point. Someone STILL needs to make a damn time machine so we can actually play EVERYTHING that's coming out...

PrE3: Paramount Digital Announces Star Trek For 2012 Launch

"Deflectors full intensity!" A single screenshot launches a thousand plus internet posts on whether or not this one will be a proper reboot. Without looking at any of them (man, those flames are hot) I predict most of the Trek purists will hate it, the gamer-first crowd will be intrigued and William Shatner will probably tweet and bleat about wanting in on a cut of the profits. All kidding aside, if the game manages to capture half the excitement of the J.J. Abrams reboot, it'll probably be a hit. Let's hope that developers Digital Extremes, Bad Robot and everyone else exceed all expectations low and high.

ICO/Shadow of the Colossus Classics Trailer

Nostalgia usually means your head is about to be kicked in the ass by wistful memories of something that wasn't so great, but in this case, it's absolutely fantastic to see these two gems coming back for a new generation of gamers (including too many that never actually owned either game). The HD and optional 3D are fantastic, the soundtracks are perfection and that mix of hand-animation and superb gameplay will keep these in your collection for quite some time. Hell, I still own both originals and definitely plan to snap up this collection once it's out at retail.

XCOM E3 Trailer: 2K Australia Needs A Little More Respect!

There's a LOT of hate for this game and that's too bad. I'm a longtime huge fan of the PC original (and some of the sequels and clones such as the UFO Afterlight series), but I'm also a bigger fan of developers that take chances with well-known series that haven't had new entries created in quite a while. So, props to 2K Australia for tackling this and fingers crossed that it's not only NOT another by the numbers FPS experience, but a game that defies the more vocal criticism and becomes a modern classic in the vein of the Half-Life series. Remember, some gamers were pissing in that pond until they actually played it...

Trailer has been moved to the M-blog HERE.

Dark Souls E3 Trailer: Lovely, Deadly And I Want Two Copies Of The Game...

I absolutely LOVED Demon's Souls, as it was the culmination of what I feel FromSoftware wanted to do with its mighty King's Field and Shadow Tower games back on the original PlayStation and PS2. This not so-sequel is improved in every way, looks grim, terrifying and is pure hard-core, old-school eat your powdered bones with blood fantastic from what I'm hearing. I expect death to stalk my every step and I'll love every minute of it (when I'm not threatening my PS3... AND Xbox 360, as I fully intend to play this through on both consoles. The art direction here is phenomenal, that music is depressingly perfect and overall, i can see this as a Game of the Year contender in my book. Now, about that OTOGI reboot, From...

Square Enix' E3 Lineup: From Assassins to Zombies, You're Covered Quite Well...

With a determined focus toward publishing more varied games developed around the world as well as keeping its core JRPG franchises alive and well, Square Enix is really pushing "content" this year. In other words, they have more than enough content to keep core gamers VERY content, indeed. Their E3 2011 lineup is pretty amazing overall, featuring a few types of RPG's, sequels that mean something (thanks to a reboot or two) as well as an all-new IP that's been on everyone's radar from its first mind-blowing backward spooling trailer. Full press release below the jump.

Alice: Madness Returns Launch Trailer

June 14th is the big day we go down the rabbit hole once again... I can't wait to see how Spicy Horse has done with their twisted tale. PS3, Xbox 360 and PC, folks... Flip a coin, pop a red or blue pill and get ready for a return to this surreal nightmare of a game world.

NGP In Action: Uncharted: Golden Abyss & Wipeout 2048 Will Be System Sellers For Sure

Sony KNOWS good and well that its current and upcoming first-party teams and titles are rock solid (even SOCOM got back on gamers' good sides the part 4) and seeing these videos made me want a NGP yesterday and another today just to hand out to some poor naysayer suffering from a bad case of system bias. E3 is going to be REALLY interesting as more titles are revealed (along with any plans for cross-connectivity with the PS3). Go, Sony!

Aliens: Colonial Marines Trailer Delivers The Goods (Mostly)...

Hmmm... let's see now - an Alien game by the folks who brought you Half-Life on the PS2, Brothers in Arms, Borderlands and Duke Nukem Forever (among other things)? I smell a hit, but you'll all need to keep sniffing that air until Spring 2012 when Sega ships this out. Gearbox is on a roll, that's for sure...