Gamerscore Blog

Howdee all, I'm Ryan Miller, the newly-appointed PC Gaming Apostle, here to spread the gospel of all things PC Gaming.  Just a quick few words about me: I've been playing PC games since I was 12 (programming games in basic on a Commodore Vic 20, tape deck drive and all!!) and have been hooked ever since.  I've been working as a game designer for the past seven years for companies like Sabertooth Games and Wizards of the Coast, working on all sorts of card games and miniatures games - I was also on the digital team there and worked on a few yet-to-be-released online games. 

In the coming weeks I'll be launching my own blog site about PC gaming, but in the mean time I've managed to hack my way onto gamerscoreblog Sam Fisher-style so I'll be able to make some contributions myself. 

But enough about me - on to Crysis.  As I'm sure many of you know by now, the latest chapter in the story (Crysis Warhead) was released only  a few weeks ago, and now publisher Electronic Arts has made an interesting move to promote the game's online multiplayer component known as Crysis Wars.  This weekend you'll be able to play online for free... As I read this my first thought was "they DARE charge a monthly fee to play their game?!?!"  Fear not, internet citizens - this is not going to be EverCrysis or World of Warcrysis or Age of Crysis.  It simply means that you will not have to buy Crysis Wars in order to try it out this weekend - just download the game, register at mycrysis.com to get your special cd key, and start fragging.

The free online play doesn't start until friday, but in the mean time you can gather your PC-equipped friends for free LAN play.  I'll be logging on friday around lucnhtime (PST) so come find me if you like - my username is socross.  Hope to see you there!

I had no idea that you spell segue (pronounced seg-way) like that.  It distracted me, and ruined my intro paragraph, and blog headline.

In Vancouver a few weeks ago I had the chance to interview some NHL 09 developers, as well as pro Hockey players Josh Harding (Minnesota Wild), and cover athlete Dion Phaneuf (Calgary Flames).  I also wanted to give a shout out to Jaken Bear from Xbox.ca who we missed at the event.

In the Community/Press vs. NHL Pros game I was the goalie, and I got a goal scored on me by Jeremy Roenick, who then proceeded to jump up and yell "and THAT's why I have over 500 goals in the NHL baby".  In my defense when Jeremy shot, Andy Agostini (one of the producers) had just shown me how to follow the action more close with the Back button...  Or something...

On November 14 (U.S.), Daniel Craig will be in theaters again as James Bond in Quantum of Solace. I checked out the official site today over at 007.com and watched some of the trailers, the music video ("Another Way to Die" performed by Jack White & Alicia Keys) and read some news.

I'll admit, I'm one of those who has been less than happy with the questionable content that Hollywood has been dealing out these days but I have yet to be disappointed with a Bond flick. Wait - I lie. Timothy Dalton's movies were... blah but ANYWAY, I am loving the new, darker, grittier Bond that Craig has brought to the screen and from all the trailers I've seen, Quantum of Solace looks to be a winner.

What does this have to do with anything? The game? Yeah, that. It's a shooter that uses the COD4 engine - That's hopeful, right? It also uses the real actors from the new movie to do the voice parts - Another BIG plus in my book. Lastly, if you check out some of the behind-the-scenes videos, you can see the level of detail they went into with environmental design. Dare I say it? It's really looking good.

I'm not a big fan of movie based games, like I've said before, but The Bourne Conspiracy brought me back from the edge of complete abandonment. I've have high hopes for this!

And yes, you get a cheesy notebook sketch to accompany this post. Although it looks more like Clive Owen, it's supposed to be Daniel Craig. Deal with it.

I've seen many rumblings on the intarwebs about getting a baseball game on XBLA and now, we have something that should go a step in appeasing that want. Ok, so it's not official baseball but a take on it - MLB® Stickball.

There are different rules for different environments and you can earn points for hitting certain things within your chosen space.

You also have the ability to unlock 120 of your favorite professional players through collecting Topps^TM Pro cards.

Stickball will be 800 MS Points and is rated E for Everyone.

For more information, check out:

http://www.2ksports.com/games/mlbstickball

While I'm not a "shoe person" or a "clothing person", I giggled like a little kid when these showed up at my door today.

I couldn't help but share with other people who wouldn't just say "you are a dork Chris".  Those of you following me on Twitter, or on Facebook have already seen these.

Globe made limited edition Gears of War skate shoes, that have the Gears logo on the tongue, the Crimson Omen on the side, and the cover of the box art (with Marcus Fenix holding the lancer) on the inside of the shoe.

If you want to get a pair of the Gears kicks, you can follow this link.

Let’s face it. The number one reason you turn on your Xbox 360 is for the games, and the team creating the New Xbox Experience certainly didn’t forget about that. This week we wanted to share with you what the Games Store will look like later this fall when the New Xbox Experience launches.

(Remember to click on any of  the images below to get larger, clearer versions.)

Current Games Store:

New Xbox Experience:

Today, when you look at a particular game in the Game Store you get a pretty basic list of information: name of the game or piece of content, ESRB rating, price and a short explanation of what it is. Check out the screens above to see. That information is really useful, but with the New Xbox Experience we thought we could give you even more.

Current Games Store:

New Xbox Experience:

Here’s a snapshot: When you go into the new Games Store this fall, you will be able to check out screenshots of the game, watch trailers and read the back-of-the-box description like you are shopping at a retail store. The Games Store will also display every available download for the game you are looking for. Let’s say you are looking at “Gears of War 2,” you will have all available Gears of War 2 options easily accessible such as: previews, trailers, gamerpics, themes, game add ons, game images. You’ll never need to search for the content you want.

Now you will get all of the information you want about the games you want to play, in one easy-to-navigate place right there on your TV.

Like we said… the games are the top reason why you turn on your Xbox 360, and this fall we will make the gaming experience even better.

Today is the day for video documentaries, apparently!

The Gears of War 2 team has released the fourth in their series about the game's creation called, "Enter the Horde". In this episode, Cliff Bleszinski, Rod Fergusson and other members of the Gears 2 team talk about the gory, underworld Locust Horde. Learn about the inspirations behind the characters and hear about some of the new additions including their special abilities.

I don't know, a creature that walks on its hands and attacks you with hook feet is crazy and extremely gross, yet so satisfying to see.

You can check out the video and more information on gearsofwar.com

Does the behind-the-scenes work on games pique your interest? Then you won't be disappointed if you go check out the seventh in the series of video documentaries for Fable 2. This documentary is available for free on the Xbox Marketplace.

In this episode, the Lionhead and MGS teams talk about capturing the epic orchestral pieces, creating ambient sound and, of course, the sound effects attached to actions.

You can also watch this and the other six episodes on lionhead.com

• Episode 1 - Emotions in Action Games
• Episode 2 - Research, look and feel of combat in Fable II
  Episode 3 - Central Technology Group
• Episode 4 - World Design in Fable II
• Episode 5 - Magic and Multiplayer
• Episode 6 - Art and the Hero

Episode 3 - A Pyramid Head costume? Oh yes. And it is sweet.

Check out the forums over on lionhead.com to submit your questions and find out more about these documentaries.

We now have the last in the series of Gamercards for my team. Mr. Tony Hynes aka Gamerscore Wh**e Extraordinaire aka Bastelyon.

As you will be able to see from the card below, game completion is not at the top of the agenda for Mr. Hynes. Rather, he and Chris are in a race to see who can stay at the top of the list on the right of the blog.

Last week, I saw a message from Chris' better half, HPaladino, on Facebook asking if the list had been updated to reflect his higher score. I immediately went in to fix it. The next morning, Tony came in and admitted that he had been playing offline just so he could come in and crush Chris' hopes and dreams. Really? Oh, yes - This geek competition has reached heightened levels of foul play.

I wonder if he will actually use the excuse of loving all of those games in the left column? And no completion in TMNT? Shameful!

As our boss, Tony needs to lead by example - or so he'd have you think. He really just likes to make us feel small and inadequate as we stare at the awe inspiring number on his Gamercard.

It's almost to the point where we can't not try to reach his score. I try to stick to getting as many achievements as possible in each game but I won't lie - Part of me wants to deviate and play games I'm not necessarily AS interested in **cougheasysportscough** just to put him in his place. Must... Resist...

If you're wondering about the lone achievement, it was for "Angry Plumber" in Hellboy.

Tony is most looking forward to Pink Pony Cake House - Oh crap, I was supposed to keep that to myself. Ahem - Fallout 3, Fable 2, Gears of War 2 and Banjo Kazooie: Nuts and Bolts.

I hope you've gotten some enjoyment from the outing of my team. I've certainly had fun doing it. Maybe I'll start doing it to some of you and just write complete fiction on what I think your real motives are MUAHAHAHA

If you dig Gears of War, and Zune, then you probably are happy in hearing that we will be doing a special edition 120gb Gears of War Zune.

Featuring a laser-etched Crimson Omen, and a 1.14gb of pre-loaded content (including the original Gears of War soundtrack, videos, and images), the Gears Zune will be available on November 7.

It's available now for pre-order, check out www.zune.net/xbox for more details!

Also Xbox peeps Nelson, Trixie, Major, and I have playlists available on the Zune Marketplace. 

I wonder if Assault Derricks have mp3 auxiliary cables or cigarette lighters in them...

Yes, you've been asking and now we're answering - Mega Man 9 is, indeed, coming to XBLA TOMORROW.

Take control of the Blue Bomber as you take out new robot bosses and complete brand new levels.

There are over 12 new levels and more than 50 new enemies to take out in this retake on the classic.

Complete levels as well and as quickly as you can to appear on the online scoreboards that will also be available.

Mega Man 9 will be 800 MS points and is rated E for everyone.

Missing Mechs since Chromehounds, Mech Assault and Armored Core? Then check out Wednesday's Xbox LIVE Arcade release of Ubisoft's War World.

War World is a 3rd person shooter that relies as much on tactics as it does on pure firepower.

There are 16 mechanoids to choose from and as with most character selections, each has their special ability. These come in the form of Extreme Speed, High Damage Lasers, Missiles, etc.

There are 100 levels in the single player game with five varying difficulty levels. When you're ready to tackle the multiplayer side, you can choose from 4 game modes: Capture the Flag, Bomb Assault, Death Match and Team Death Match.

War World is rated T for Teen and will cost 800 MS Points.

For more details, visit http://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/w/warworldxboxlivearcade/

Here are some Marketplace goodies from the last week that you may want to check out if you're looking for something to do this weekend. Keep in mind, with the outage on Monday, you may want to download some of your TV shows now to watch then. I'll be spending more time with Batman, lego style.

Movies:

Casino - Rated R

What better than to see Sharon Stone as a trashy - oh wait, this is a nice blog... Nevermind... A movie with DeNiro, Pesci and Frank Vincent - Let's hazard a guess as to the plot through these keywords: Vegas, Casino, Greed, Deception, Power, and Murder. There you have it.

HD: 360 MS Points  SD: 240 MS Points

****

Summer Rental - Rated PG

I am a fan of bad 80s movies and this one makes my list. A kid picking his nose outside your dining nook window surely deserves some credit - As does a neighbor who is always trying to show off her new hoohas. John Candy is hilarious as always as he partners with Rip Torn to take the regatta crown from the greedy landlord of his vacation home.

HD: 360 MS Points SD: 240 MS Points

****

National Lampoon's Vacation - Rated R

If you don't know this movie, there's something wrong with you. Follow Clark W. Griswold and family as they drive from Chicago to California hoping to get it on with Marty Moose at Wally World. Between losing hubcaps, a dog and their Aunt, skinny dipping with Christie Brinkley, and watching the consumption of peed-on sandwiches, you'll find something for anyone to laugh at. Stars Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo and a young geek - Michael Anthony Hall.

SD: 240 MS Points

Themes & Gamerpics:

C&C Red Alert 3 -

• Theme: Autumn Reeser.  150 MS Points

Midnight Club LA -

• Theme: Cars? 150 MS Points
• Gamerpics: MC:LA Picture Pack. 80 MS Points

Duke Nukem 3D -

• Theme: Blood, sweat and bubblegum? 150 MS Points
• Gamerpics: Proton Pack, Plutonium Pack and Meltdown Pack. Each pack is 140 MS Points

Game Stuff:

Duke Nukem 3D!!

Download from XBLA. Battle aliens who are after the babes on planet earth, dude! Finally, a politically incorrect game to have some fun with. Online multiplayer for 2 - 8 players.

Trial: Free

Full Game: 800 MS Points

****

Soulcalibur IV - Customization Equipment 2

Male and female Halloween equipment. 150 MS Points

****

Burnout Paradise - Burnout(TM) Paradise Bikes

Want bikes? Get bikes. Download for free! OMGZBBQ111!!111

****

Mercenaries™ 2 - Demo

Blow sh... err... stuff up and have fun!

Rated T

Trial: Free

****

Fracture - Demo

"Defend the world against a genetically modified enemy force and unleash the power of terrain-deforming weapons and technology."

Rated T

Trial: Free

****

I think you have enough to keep you entertained for a little while.

I know you're all eagerly awaiting Fable II's release on October 21, as am I. Hell, I used the image for my personal Gamercard on here a couple of weeks ago and it wasn't because I was "asked" to.

We just got word that while we will be able to play the single player and local co-op on day one, they are still making tweaks to the online co-op. Don't worry, it is definitely still coming. Seriously, as a gamer I'm glad they're taking the time to make it right instead of just rushing it out the door. Lionhead and Microsoft Game Studios are looking to get the update out within the first week of launch in North America, so again, don't think this is going to be a decade long wait. I suggest you do what I'm going to do - go play some more pub games and get a ton of gold to buy cool stuff as you start the single player or local co-op game.

Having said that, as you are playing through the game, you will still be able to see your friends as glowing orbs as well as chat and trade with them.

As soon as I get information for other regions and the date that the update is expected, I'll let you know.

PS - Lionhead sends a huge thank you to all of the Fable fans, and asks for your patience and understanding. This is their most ambitious game to date and can't wait to get you playing their vision as soon as they possibly can.

Ahhh Themes - There's been a lot of chatter about whether or not you can keep what you have, how they will look and how the new stuff will be different. We'll be tackling all of that today so pay attention! Also in this week’s Developer Diaries, we’re going to show you more on the new Friends Channel -  another area we got a lot of questions about after we first showed it to you at E3.

This fall, themes are getting even more detailed with the New Xbox Experience. Themes will take over more than just the background of your Dashboard – they will be present on every channel in cool, dynamic ways. Yes, I said, "DYNAMIC." Check out the screens below that show the Underground Theme on the Dashboard and the Friends Channel. (Remember, to see the images more clearly, click on them and you will be sent to our flickr feed.)

Every graphic on each channel will tie into your theme and change if you choose a different one. You can really see this on the Friends Channel – each of your friends' Avatars will stand next to a different graphic or environment. These graphics will match the theme you choose and will change dynamically as you navigate from channel to channel. But that’s not all; the themes will be subtly animated. This is some pretty cool stuff when you see it.

This is what your Dashboard and Friends Channel would look like with the Signature Theme – picture the bubbles in the background moving, shrinking, growing – you get the idea.

Also on the Friends Channel, you’ll be able to see your friends’ Avatars rally when you host a LIVE party. You can see who is online and offline by what their Avatars are doing, too. Online? Your friends will emote and be able to wave you over to jump into their party. Offline? Well, they’re snoozing, of course.

Finally (and many of you have asked us about this) don’t worry – you can still use the themes you previously purchased with the New Xbox Experience. They’ll look even better over the new UI, especially in high-definition. Below is what a current “Gears of War” theme would look like:

That’s it for this week’s Developer Diaries. We hope you like what you’ve seen so far, and check back next week for more details on the New Xbox Experience.