Category: GAMING

I’ve played every type of game.  I’ve even played a few at a professional level.  I’ve owned, and managed two Game stores.  Learn from my love of gaming.

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Competitive or Cooperative? – The Gamer in me GL-20

How things have changed

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All of us grew up playing games.  Some of us played Sports.  Many of us played Board games.  A few of us were early adopters of Video games.  Practically everyone played Card games.  I could go on and on but one thing is for sure.  I played them all.  I didn’t just play them though.  I played to win!  You see the one thing that was similar about all of the games I played was that they included an opponent.  Another person, a few other individuals, or another team that I had to beat.  This was one of the main things about games that made them appealing to me.  You had a quantifiable way to determine if you were better than someone else.  I was naturally competitive so I tended to win more often than I lost.  Which made playing games one of my favourite things to do.  But what if you were somebody that lost most of the time?  Well fortunately for them Video games increased in popularity, and quality as a direct result.  Home Video game consoles turned gaming into a solitary affair.  Eventually though people began to miss the connection with others they used to have playing games.  But how could they get past the inherent competitiveness of it?  Along came the current generation of cooperative games.  Games that allow a group of people to play together to achieve a common goal.  You either win as a team, or all of you lose collectively.  It creates a sense of equality that wasn’t present in the games we played as kids.

Congratulations for coming out

It’s commonplace for children’s sports leagues to give every player a trophy at the end of the season.  The reason for this is to prevent anyone from feeling less accomplished than anyone else.  Some leagues no longer keep score during games.  That way there is no winner or loser.  Everyone is considered an equal success for having played.  Do agree with this new way of thinking?  No I don’t, not at all.  That’s a whole nother article though, and I won’t go into it now.  I’ll just summarize it by saying it’s wrong to make someone feel inept, but it’s equally wrong to marginalize someone else’s talent.  I’ll leave it at that.  Cooperative games make this new way of thinking unnecessary.  The best games require multiple disciplines, and innovative thinking to succeed.  In this way they can appeal to many different people.  Probably one of the best examples of this is Escape Rooms.  I’ve played Escape Rooms that required athleticism, manual dexterity, trivia knowledge, and of course puzzle solving.  Just imagine the group of people that would be required to work together as a team to be victorious in that particular Room.  Schools should be working towards incorporating extra curricular activities similar to Escape Rooms if they are concerned about all participants feeling valuable.

Kitchen table battleground

Cooperative Board games, and Card games have turned what used to be the family Kitchen table battleground into a friendly cooperative affair.   My family played cards when I was a kid, and I could probably give lessons on how to play competitive Crazy 8s, Hearts, or Euchre.  A particularly brutal night of cards could lead to me receiving a couple of days of the silent treatment.  It also meant that the next family game night wasn’t going to happen anytime soon.  What if we were playing a cooperative game instead?  If I won it meant we all won.  No more jealousy or resentment, just celebration.  Games like Escape, Curse of the Temple or if you are feeling really adventurous and have a few hours Gloomhaven are great games to play that require real teamwork to win.  The best part is losing only makes the group more determined to win next time, and winning becomes addictive because of the group celebration.  You won’t have to wait long no matter what the result was before you get together to play again.  I’ve become a real fan of cooperative games because I can approach playing them in a far more relaxed manner.  My competitive instincts are still there, but the anxiety that usually goes along with it is gone.  I still want to win, but I don’t need to.  If you have played anything at a competitive level you’ll know what I mean.  The other major bonus that comes with playing cooperative games is finding others to join you is much much easier.  Trust me, there was a time that finding someone to play me head to head at Magic the Gathering required a tournament entry.  Cooperative games are here to stay, and I am really glad that they are.  If you haven’t played one yet.  I suggest that you give one a try.

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Cobe Life Christmas Gifts Top 8

It’s getting close to crunch time!

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By now you have probably walked the equivalent of a half marathon at the mall.  I know I’m beginning to feel like one of the Knights Templar on a Grail quest.  Each year it seems to get a little more difficult to find the right gift.  While the malls seem to get a lot more chaotic.  The reason for this is actually quite simple if take a moment to think about it.  With each thoughtful gift you purchase for someone special.  The next time you purchase a gift for that person, one of the possible items is already off the list.  What was once obvious, has now become obscure.  Should the holiday season be this stressful?  I should hope not.  So in the spirit of giving I’ve decided to put together a list of potential gifts you might have overlooked.  Gifts that will potentially surprise, show consideration, or just make things a little easier for the recipient.  So without any further ado, here’s my list.

The Top 8

1 – Memory card

Digital devices have become an integral part of almost everyone’s lives.  Cellphones, tablets, digital readers, digital cameras, and media players find their way into our pockets, and purses.  There was a time not too long ago that 16gb was more than enough space for anything.  16gb is barely enough for the operating system, some music, your favourite apps, and a few photos on your cellphone these days.  It might seem like a small thing, but a Memory card will definitely be appreciated.

2 – Orthotic insoles

I’ve lived a fair amount of my life with sore feet.  When I was younger I played soccer, ran track, was a street style skateboarder, and snowboarder.  Needless to say I did a significant amount of damage to my feet.  A few years ago I was told that I needed Orthotics.  From the very first step I took with the new insoles I wondered how I could have ever taken a step without them.  The change was so dramatic, and my demeanor so improved that my wife decided to try them.  Although she doesn’t require Orthotics, the improved comfort, and additional support make every day easier.  This is one of the surprise gifts I was talking about.  The recipient might not think much of the gift at first.  Convince them to wear them while fighting through crowds during boxing week, and I guarantee they’ll thank you.

3 – Coffee warmer

Who doesn’t know somebody that really loves their coffee?  For a lot of people, their day doesn’t begin until they’ve had their cup.  These are busy times, and many of us lead busy lives.  In between each satisfying sip of our favourite brew we might be getting ready for work, or already at work getting prepared for our day.  It doesn’t take long for the morning brew to get cold.  So what do we do?  We risk scalding our throats by drinking our first coffee of the day ridiculously fast.  But what if you didn’t have to?  With a coffee warmer on your desk at work or the kitchen table at home.  You could go about your morning routine without worrying the coffee is getting cold.

4 – Cellphone Camera Lens

Unless you are actually on holiday, the chances are slim you have a camera with you.  Well you do have a camera of sorts.  The cameras built into our cellphones have significantly improved over the years.  The picture quality is so good that carrying a traditional camera is almost unnecessary.  Unless you are really after high quality zoom, or macro photography shots.  Well with the addition of a simple clip on lens, small enough to carry in your pocket.  Your cellphone will gain some of the capabilities of a full size camera.  Instagram fans will thank you, and flood your wall with photos.

5 – Sports Cap or Toque

This probably seems obvious to a lot of you.  If you know a true sports fan.  Chances are good that you’ve seen them wearing a Cap or Toque with their team’s logo.  That’s exactly why I wouldn’t consider this an obvious gift.  Why get someone a gift that they already have?  Because they will smile wide and thank you for it. That’s why!  As most of you already know, I’m a true sports fanatic.  As a fan of the Denver Broncos I currently have two Caps, and a Toque.  My father is from the Netherlands so I support their soccer team.  I currently have four Netherlands soccer Caps.  Each one is slightly different, and I wear them all.  This is the one gift on this list that you definitely can’t go wrong with.  When in doubt, get them what they already love.

6 – Touch Screen Gloves

I actually got a pair of these as a gift a couple years ago.  They have quickly become my favourite gloves.  I couldn’t even tell you where my other gloves are.  I know that I have at least five pairs gloves, but my cellphone is so important to me I wouldn’t even consider wearing the others.  The original Touch Screen Gloves were about as simple as can be.  Now there are all sorts of styles to go with any outfit.  Everyone knows someone that could benefit from having a pair of these.

7 – Heated Scarf

Do I own one?  No, it’s definitely not the most masculine of gifts.  Hardcore hipsters aside, a Heated Scarf would be a welcome gift for any woman that has to brave the bitter cold of winter.  Have I tried one?  Yes, for the purposes of this article I figured it was important to get a first hand feel for what it’s like.  Even though I’m in great shape, and a little cold weather doesn’t really bother a man like me.  I found the Heated Scarf to be quite comfortable, and even soothing.  At least for the extremely short period of time that I actually wore it.  Still I can definitely recommend it.

8 – Saxx underwear

A few years ago I saw Saxx underwear for the first time while watching an episode of Dragons’ Den.  Men’s underwear specifically designed with a built in pouch to keep your family jewels from chaffing while playing sports, or just a long day at work.  The idea seemed simple enough, and being an active individual I was intrigued.  A couple years later while shopping I saw them for sale at a retail store for the first time.  I just had to try them so I bought a pair.  Saxx aren’t the most inexpensive of underwear.  One pair of Saxx cost what three pairs of boxer briefs used to cost me.  After wearing that first pair for one day.  I immediately returned to the store and bought the remaining three in my size.  Today the only underwear I wear is Saxx.  That’s how much of a game changer this underwear is to me.  They’ve expanded their lines to include compression sports briefs, and long johns as well.  Before you ask I do have some of both.  I’ve sung their praises to so many people that they should have made me a brand ambassador by now.  If you know an athletic guy, don’t hesitate.  Get him a pair of Saxx.

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Arcades: Then and Now – The Gamer in me GL-19

Giant Pac-Man

Flashback childhood

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It hasn’t been happening in every city, but I happen to live in one of the most progressive cities in North America.  In 2017 three new modern Arcades have opened in Toronto.  Two of them are owned and operated by Cineplex.  The Rec Room across from the Rogers centre, and the new Arcade plus VR experience in Scotiabank theatre.  The third modern Arcade recently opened at Nations Fresh Foods flagship store in the Stockyards.  That’s right, a grocery store is attached to a modern Arcade.  If you are familiar with the Dave and Buster’s entertainment centres, then you will have a good idea of what these Arcades are like.  These aren’t the dark, cramped, concrete floored teenage Hangouts from when we were kids.  These are spacious, clean, carpeted gaming dens.  Appealing to kids, and adults of all ages.  You can find everything from Skee ball to Virtual Reality games.

Satisfying but not the same

To say that I miss the camaraderie, and competition that was present every time I used to visit the local Arcade as a kid would be an understatement.  Showcasing your gaming skills to both friends, and total strangers was immensely gratifying.  It was an amazing feeling of accomplishment that today’s video games can’t recreate.  Even though today’s technology is leaps and bounds beyond what we grew up playing.  The same technology has made it possible to spend hours mastering a game in the comfort of our own home.  The games you can play at these modern Arcades are in Full HD, with cutting edge graphics.  They have elaborate housings with theatre quality sound, and modern control mechanisms.  Some of them are even in Virtual Reality.  Strolling into one of today’s modern Arcades, and dominating at your game of choice would really be something.  It would be something if you couldn’t essentially do the exact same thing at home.  We all have Full HD televisions.  Computer or Console Game systems are capable of running the most advanced games.  Joysticks, steering wheels, Flight simulator controllers, and gaming chairs can make you feel like you are in total control of the action.  You can even buy Virtual Reality headsets.  So when you see someone dominating at your favourite game in a modern Arcade.  It’s probably safe to assume that they’ve played something almost identical at home.  Is it enjoyable to dominate at a particular game? Sure it is.  Is it impressive to watch someone else dominate a video game?  It is as well.  The one thing that’s missing is the satisfaction, and respect that goes along with the understanding of what it took to get that good at playing that game.

Time and Money

What made mastering a game at the Arcade when we were kids so special?  It was the understanding from everyone present that you had to make numerous trips to the Arcade, and spend a shit load of quarters to become that good.  You made a decision to not only play that particular game.  You decided to keep playing it until you weren’t just good at it.  You were on a quest to be the best.  If it took you having to go to the Arcade every day after school, and all of your allowance to beat that game.  Then that’s what you were going to do.  We were so respectful of what it required to master a game.  When somebody would defeat me at a game like Mortal Kombat, or beat my high score on Elevator Action.  I wouldn’t be upset.  I’d be in awe, and congratulate them.

 ESports and Competitive Video Gaming

The emergence of ESports, and Competitive Video Gaming has tried to recreate the feeling of Video Game dominance we had as kids.  I believe that this has led to the sudden increase of modern Arcades popping up.  Try as they might.  Modern Competitive Video Gaming will never have the same satisfaction as slaying the Dragon and saving Princess Daphne in front of about 20 onlookers at your local Arcade.  It doesn’t matter how much money goes to the Champion, or if the event is live on Cable television.  Just knowing that all it took the eventual winner to be as skilled at the game as they are.  Was hours upon hours of game play.  Sitting alone in their bedroom or basement.  Closed off from the rest of the world.  Well physically closed off.  They probably have more “friends” online then you had students in your High school.  Does that really sound like victory to you?  If that person defeated you at your favourite Video game.  Would you be in awe, and congratulate them?  Maybe it’s just me.  Maybe I’m just too old school.  I wouldn’t congratulate them.  Truth be told, I probably wouldn’t care.

Fun with a capital F

Now here’s the thing.  It’s probably sounding like I’ve got a pretty serious hate on for the Modern Arcade.  Quite the opposite in fact.  I thoroughly enjoy them.  I see them for what they are.  Another option in a city full of options, of something to do when you’ve got a little free time.  You can spend as little, or as long as you’d like at an Arcade.  Unlike the movies or dinner where you are committed to a certain length of time.  How much you choose to spend is entirely up to you as well.  There’s no entry fee, or cover charge.  Just do whatever your budget allows.  Can’t find a babysitter for the kids?  No worries.  They’ll enjoy the Arcade even more than you do.  It’s quite literally a win-win situation.  So if you haven’t done it yet.  The next time you are trying to decide what to do on the weekend.  Give one of the Modern Arcades a try.  It won’t be what you remember, but you won’t be disappointed.

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Promising PS4 games of 2018 – The Gamer in me GL-18

Picky picky

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Those of you that follow my Gaming posts know that I’ve become increasingly picky about which PS4 games I choose to purchase.  There wasn’t much in 2017 that really had me overly excited.  I was impressed with the Playlink games that we’re released though.  Of course those games don’t have anywhere near the amount of depth a major release does.

Fortunately 2018 looks to have a few major game releases that will have me waiting for the Video game store to open on release day.

A Way Out

Unlike a couple of the other games to come on this list.  A Way Out only began picking up interest at E3 this year.  Billed as a Co-op only split screen game.  Memories of playing couch co-op games as a kid have me interested to experience what a modern version will look like. From what I’ve seen, A Way Out is going to essentially be a video game version of the TV show Prison break.  A show that I was a fan of for two seasons.  It began to get just a little too unbelievable after that.  This game has me excited because 1- I love couch Co-op. 2- the ability to have both Players in completely different parts of the jail, but be able to see what each of you is up to is awesome. 3- unlike a lot of online games, it only requires one available friend to play with.

Detroit: Become Human

If you haven’t already heard about Detroit: Become Human then obviously keeping up on current events isn’t your thing.  Judging by the trailers and gameplay Videos I’ve seen. Detroit: Become Human is going to be a gorgeous looking game.  In the game you play three key characters that all have an important part to play in the story.  The primary subject matter is a popular subject these days.  If artificial intelligence reaches the point of becoming self aware. Should it be allowed to govern itself, and share an equal place in society?  I’ve always loved Android characters in films.  In Detroit: Become Human you get to decide the path they would take.  Awesome right!  I definitely think so.  I can’t wait for this game to be released because 1- it’s a game by Quantic Dream.  Easily one of my favourite software development companies. 2- the story is of particular interest to me.  Especially since you have a part in deciding where it goes.  3- the graphics look absolutely incredible.  Just watch a trailer or two, you will be impressed.

Skull and Bones

Something that I feel has been missing from the Video game world for quite some time is Pirates.  Sure there have been games that incorporated a few scenes or levels on the high seas.  A dedicated game about living the life of a pirate hasn’t been available.  Although it’s really just an Assassin’s Creed game.  Assassin’s Creed Black Flag has had a hand in revitalizing the Pirate genre.  It definitely has the feel, and look of a Pirate game, but that’s where it ends.  At no time during that game do I feel like a Pirate.  You always know that you are an Assassin first and foremost.  Although it remains to be seen, Skull and Bones is supposed to be a much more realistic adaptation of Pirate life.  I truly hope that’s the case.  I’m totally stoked for Skull and Bones because 1- who doesn’t want to play the role of a Pirate Captain sailing the Seas. 2- online multiplayer ship to ship combat could be amazing if done right. 3- the solo Campaign sounds both challenging, and exciting. Let’s just hope it isn’t only 8 hours long like some recent letdowns.

There will be more

Those are the big three for me currently, but as Developers continue to push the PS4 limits.  You can be sure that the number of quality games will increase.  There’s been recent speculation about when the PS5 might be released.  All I can say is that I hope it isn’t anytime soon.  It’s been my experience that it takes most Developers close to three years to really understand a new console.  Now that they are getting the most out of the PS4.  Lets allow them to run wild with it.

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Top 8 Game breakers – The Gamer in me GL-17

Game obsessed

There are many classic games throughout history that made a difference.  Every Video Game, or Board Game we play today owes something to those early creations.  This list is more about the games that changed things in the modern era, or kept me from seeing the light of day for months.  The games you couldn’t stop playing because at the time there was nothing else quite like it.

The Top 8 Games you just had to play

Dragon’s Lair – I just finished watching the second season of Stranger Things on Netflix.  During one of the early episodes they briefly show the kids collecting quarters to go play Dragon’s Lair at their local Arcade.  It inspired me to write this article actually.  Dragon’s Lair first appeared in Arcades in 1983.  At that time there was nothing even remotely close to it in graphic quality, and story.  All of today’s adventure based video games where you play a recognizable character owe a little something to Dragon’s Lair.  The Laserdisc system was plagued with issues so by the early 90s the Dragon’s Lair Arcade machines were mostly gone.  Very few people ever mastered the timing and moves necessary to defeat the Dragon.  I was one of the few.  There’s a common misconception that you needed to get through each room to reach the Dragon’s Lair.  Actually the Lair was triggered after reaching a certain number of points.  The point threshold could be adjusted for difficulty so in most cases you would have to play some of the rooms multiple times before you reached the Dragon’s Lair.  People who claim to have beaten the game but actually haven’t won’t know that.  To this day it’s still one of my two favourite Arcade games.  The console versions that came out later never quite did it justice.

Gauntlet – In case you hadn’t already guessed Gauntlet was the other Arcade game.  Originally released in 1985 Gauntlet didn’t suffer from the Laserdisc issues Dragon’s Lair did.  Up until the fall of the Arcades in the late 90s, Gauntlet remained a very popular game.  What set it apart from so many others was the four player cooperative play.  There had been many two player cooperative games but they didn’t have the same allure as four player Gauntlet.  Gauntlet will be for many people the first video game they ever played cooperatively with strangers.  Quite often a couple best friends would visit the Arcade together, and end playing Gauntlet for hours with a couple total strangers.  By the end of that Gauntlet marathon those strangers were now friends.  For those of you that never played Gauntlet in the Arcades, you might have thought that hours of playing was an exaggeration.  It wasn’t.  In Gauntlet your quarters bought you a predetermind amount of life points.  The more quarters you added, the more life your character had.  As long as you kept adding quarters, you could keep playing.  On top of that you could add additional life points by picking up food during the game.  If you knew what you were doing, had great players to play with, and a bucket load of quarters.  You could practically play all day.  Trust me I did.  I spent enough money playing that game to have bought one outright.  Gauntlet was the first of the real time dungeon crawler video games, and one of the first true multiplayer games as well.  Some of the most successful video games like Diablo, and Destiny owe a lot of their success to Gauntlet.

Warhammer Fantasy Battle – If you are a tabletop gamer you will know about Warhammer Fantasy.  Chances are good that if you regularly visit gaming stores you will have at least seen it being played.  Without Warhammer Fantasy Battle tabletop gaming would never have taken off the way it did.  As much as it’s a game, it’s also a hobby.  Allowing players to demonstrate their painting skills, army composition, and display creativity.  The first edition released in 1983, but after many expansions and new editions is still being played today.  If you are a tabletop gamer, the success of Warhammer Fantasy Battle is why.  Everything from Heroclix to X-wing owe their success to Warhammer Fantasy Battle.

Magic the Gathering – When Wizards of the Coast hired Richard Garfield to help them create a competitive Collectible Card Game.  I doubt they ever imagined the success, and effect that it would have on gaming in general.  First released in 1993, and continuing on with new expansions to this day.  Magic the Gathering remains the most successful of all the Collectible Card Games on the market.  Responsible for creating the online Card Game community, a professional Collectible Card Gaming tour, and valuable Individual Card market for something other than Sports Players.  If you played Pokemon, you can thank Magic the Gathering.  Yu-Gi-Oh wouldn’t have existed without Magic the Gathering.  Countless Card Games based on well known franchises like Star Wars, Star Trek, Lord of the Rings, Game of Thrones, the WWE, any many others wouldn’t have existed if it wasn’t for Magic the Gathering paving the way.  I’ve bought, sold, and traded a small fortunes worth of Magic the Gathering cards.  I’ve even been part owner in a couple of stores dedicated to the CCG market that game created.  It’s hard to find a more influential game that was created in the 90s.

HeroQuest – Simply put HeroQuest was the Board Game version of a Video Game dungeon crawler.  Recreating the cooperative experience from Gauntlet in a simple to play tile board, and miniatures game at home.  More importantly it made previously complicated game genres more accessible to the average person.  Not everyone is interested in painting an entire Warhammer Army, and then measuring out each, and every troop movement to play the game.  Not everyone has the interest, or imagination to enjoy playing a Dungeons and Dragons Campaign.  HeroQuest didn’t require painting, replaced rulers with gridded tiles, and gave Fantasy Players something they could see.  Games Workshop partnered with Milton Bradley to create the game released in 1989.  They realized that their Warhammer Fantasy Battle game only appealed to a hardcore audience.  HeroQuest served as a way to get the average player interested in miniature gaming.  Then maybe their interest would continue to grow, and eventually become Warhammer Fantasy Battle Players. This wasn’t necessarily the case because the story was just as important as the battle.  As a result Games Workshop released their own version of HeroQuest, although far more advanced called Warhammer Quest in 1995.  Board Game dungeon crawlers remain as some of the most appealing games to a wide audience.  Their simplicity of play, story, character advancement, and group dynamic make them one of my personal favourites.  For those of you that read my The Gamer in me posts, you will already know that I’m a huge fan of Imperial Assault.  If you love Board Games, but have a difficult time talking your friends into playing.  Do yourself a favour, and figure out which genre is most appealing to your group of friends, and pick up a cooperative dungeon crawler board game.  If you can get them to play it just once, they will be hooked.

Wing Commander 3 – This could already have many of you searching Google for what Wing Commander 3 is.  To understand it’s importance you need to know a little about home console gaming first. Home consoles effectively took over from the Arcades in the early 2000s in what is referred to as the 128 bit era.  The generation of consoles that came out before that were the first to incorporate 3D graphics.  It was during this time that the possibility of buying a home console system could keep you from going out to an Arcade.  The first of these 3D era consoles was the Panasonic 3DO. You read that right.  Panasonic made a home game system.  It was actually quite good as well.  Consoles had just switched from cartridges to Discs, and Wing Commander 3 was their crowning achievement in 1995.  The cut scenes were actually film quality.  Something that would be adapted for many future Video Games.  Actual recognized actors were used for the main characters.  A practice that has continued to this day.  The game played like you were a participant in a movie.  Much like modern Video Games Heavy Rain, Until Dawn, and The Last of Us.  If you have never seen it played.  Check out some videos on YouTube, and remember that this game was on consoles in 1995.

Counter-Strike – Are you a fan of First Person Shooters?  Do you absolutely love online multiplayer?  Well give the makers of Counter-Strike a call and thank them.  Counter-Strike released in 2000 set the bar when it comes to online multiplayer First Person Shooters.  Sure there were other FPS games before it but Counter-Strike perfected the genre.  Every FPS game that’s come out since owes a debt of gratitude to Counter-Strike.  Small unit tactical combat, deathmatch, objective based missions, and balanced map design were all executed  perfectly by the Counter-Strike development team.  I’ve never been a huge fan of online multiplayer FPS, but I did like MAG, and the Killzone series so thank you Counter-Strike.

Resident Evil 7 VR – Quite simply the most immersive experience that you can have playing a Virtual Reality Video Game.  There are a number of Virtual Reality titles available across multiple platforms, but none of them capture the realism, and mood of their respective games better than Resident Evil 7 VR.  The game can be genuinely scary at times when you play the regular version.  In Virtual Reality the full 18 hours of game play could leave you frightened to the point where therapy is required.  Isn’t that the whole point behind the Virtual Reality experience?  To feel like you aren’t just playing the game, but actually a part of it.  Virtual Reality is still in it’s infancy, and by no means is it inexpensive.  If you are battling with the merits of becoming an early adopter.  Do yourself a favour, and give Resident Evil 7 a try.  If that doesn’t sell you on the value of a Virtual Reality game system then nothing else will.  There’s a very good chance that you will be opening your wallet and joining the ever growing ranks of VR Gamers though.

 

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GAMING

Top 8 Gifts for Gamers 2017 – The Gamer in me GL-16

Christmas is just around the corner

Before it’s too late, and you find yourself fighting your way through other desperate shoppers one week before Christmas.  Never mind the hour it took you to find a parking spot at your local shopping center.  Do yourself a favour, and get your holiday shopping over and done with now.  Here’s a few great ideas for the hardcore Gamer on your Christmas list.

1 – Playstation VR bundle

The next evolution in gaming is Virtual Reality.  PS4 leads the way with their Playstation VR system.  Provided you already own a PS4.  This is still the most affordable way to get into true Virtual Reality gaming.  If you haven’t tried it, I suggest you do.  It will blow your mind.

2 – Imperial Assault Heart of the Empire

Any of you that read my The Gamer in me posts are well aware of how impressed I am with Star Wars Imperial Assault.  The new full Campaign expansion takes your heroes to Coruscant to battle with classic characters like Emperor Palpatine and Darth Maul.  How can you resist that!

3 – Miniatures Storage Box

This is something that every tabletop miniatures Gamer can fully appreciate.  Sure we love to display all of our fully painted miniatures.  You know what we love more though?  Actually taking them over to our friend’s place, or local Game store and playing with them.  A handy carrying case makes transporting your favourite figs so much easier.

4 – Wireless Gaming Headset

This falls into the gift for both of you category.  How many times have you had to ask your kids, or significant other to lower the volume on the TV?  A high quality Gaming Headset allows you to get some much needed peace and quiet, while the Gamer in your house can play until the coffee runs out.  You are welcome for the idea.

5 – 4K UHD high speed Game Screen

Depending on where the TV ends up.  This can qualify as a gift for both of you as well.  Who doesn’t want a brand new Ultra High Definition TV?  I’m considering buying another one for the bathroom so you know I’d welcome one for Christmas.  Movies look great on a high end TV, but videogames can look phenomenal.  Just go buy one for yourself, and tell your significant other that it’s for them.  You can thank me later.

6 – Card Game collector Albums

For years I played many of the most popular Collectible Card Games.  I honestly couldn’t have enough Collectors binders.  This is one of the gifts that you can spend a lot, or a little on.  Trust me the Collectible Card Gamer on your Christmas list will be happy with a custom collector’s binder, or a generic card binder.

7 – Simulator Gaming chair

This is quite simply the ultimate gift for the Gamer that you know that loves racing games.  Get them a copy of Gran Turismo, a high quality gaming wheel, and this chair.  Just be prepared to not see them until Spring, maybe.  As much as I would love to have one of these.  I don’t think my marriage would survive it.  Although it would probably be fine if I got two! Hmmm?

8 – Couch Slipcover

After picturing yourself setting lap records on Laguna Seca in your brand new Gaming chair.  The last item on my list is a Slipcover?  You are going to have to trust me on this one.  The living room couch takes a ridiculous amount of abuse when there are Gamers in the house.  It’s the only piece of furniture in my living room that is beat up.  A simple Slipcover adds some much needed comfort, protection, and washable solution when the stains inevitably happen.  This is really a gift for everyone, but give it to the Gamer.  They will most definitely understand your reasoning.

Have a truly happy Christmas

I hope this helps you narrow down your Christmas list.  Here’s to hoping that you get exactly what you were hoping for as well.

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Hidden Agenda PS4 Review – The Gamer in me GL-15

First impressions

Finally!  I’ve been waiting for this game.  I absolutely loved Until Dawn.  I couldn’t wait for the next release from Supermassive Games.  I’m also a fan of the Playlink system so Hidden Agenda sounded like the perfect fit for me.  The accompanying cellphone Application is well designed.  Very simple to use, and I found it to be very responsive during game play.  I’ve read some reviews that claimed to have connection issues with the application, but I personally experienced none of that.  The actual game is a bit of a mixed bag for me.  Having played Until Dawn too many times, I was expecting a more action packed story.  That was not the case.  Fortunately what the story lacks in action, it more than makes up for it in mood and suspense.

Game play

The story in Hidden Agenda progresses smoothly.  It seems like every decision you make can have serious consequences later.  This is where the Playlink system really shines.  The majority of the decisions your group of Players make have to be unanimous.  This can lead to some serious debates among the Players.  That’s actually where the real action takes place.  Especially if you elected to play the competitive version of the game instead of the cooperative.  Hidden Agenda can be played as a group collectively trying to reach the same goal, or with a competitive twist where each Player is trying to steer the group along a specific path.  Whichever mode you choose, expect a fair amount of debate between Players about which choice is the right one.  Don’t expect the game to help steer you in the right direction either.  On my first play through I obviously failed miserably.  At least the failure wasn’t all mine.  The other Players got to share in the blame.  Unlike other Playlink games that I’ve played, there’s a lot of interaction going on in Hidden Agenda.  Your cellphone becomes a touch pad  at many points in the game.  You might have to use it to aim up a shot, move an item out of the way during a high speed chase, or search a room for clues.  The important thing to note here is that you aren’t just watching everything happening.  You are at times in control of it.  Miss an important clue, and someone could die.  I’m not even kidding!  Although the game can seem to be a little slow paced.  It manages to create the sensation that time is working against you, and speed is of the essence.  This can lead to you making decisions quicker than you necessarily have to.  This makes poor choices feel like the result of added pressure created by the situation.  Affectively immersing you right into the story as that particular character.  Absolutely amazing in my opinion.  Too often we feel like God’s moving characters around in the games we play.  It’s extremely rare to actually feel like what’s happening to a character in a game is happening to you.  Then having to debate with others what you believe to be the correct course of action for that character only increases your connection to the end result.  Just a brilliant bit of Game Design by the team at Supermassive Games.

Satisfaction

The whole thing takes between roughly two or three hours to complete.  For me that’s a bit short.  I was hoping for a four hour experience to be honest.  My first play through took just over two hours.  Thankfully my group totally shit the bed.  If we had beat it with our first play through in under three hours I would have been pissed!  Thankfully the correct choices that lead you to victory aren’t obvious.  Who knows, maybe it will take me a full four hours to actually win the game.  I won’t know for sure until that happens.  The good news is that I will thoroughly enjoy every time I try.  Hidden Agenda is a pleasure to play with a few friends.  It even has intermissions of sorts.  In case you need another beer, a smoke break, bathroom break, or refill of the snack bowl.  The pace of the game for a play group is pretty much perfect.

If you enjoy the odd get together with a few friends, and would like to try something a little different.  Then I would strongly suggest that you give Hidden Agenda a try.  For less than half the price of a typical PS4 game you really can’t go wrong.

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Imperial Assault review – The Gamer in me GL-14

A great Design

I’ve been playing board games for a long time.  One thing that I can say for sure is that Game Design has significantly improved.  I use to find major flaws with almost every game I purchased after a few times playing.  The percentage of games that are brutally unbalanced, or contain game breaking elements are far lower now.  Imperial Assault is no exception.  I’ve read other people’s reviews, and comments about Campaign balance issues.  After playing through the game a number of times.  I can assure you that their opinions are unfounded.  The concern is most commonly about one side (Rebels or Imperials) gaining a significant advantage by winning too many missions in a row, and gaining an insurmountable advantage.  With proper Strategy, no advantage is insurmountable if you focus on the objectives.  Another aspect that is overlooked by most is that in order to win, the only mission that matters is the last one.  Every other mission only helps determine which path you take to get there.  I’ve also come across discussions on the Forums about assembling super groups of Rebel Heroes.  Trust me there is no such thing.  As the Imperial player there will be some missions that provide you with a predetermined Imperial units load out that can significantly limit your chances of success.  Of course there are other missions that provide you with the freedom to select the best possible group of units to defeat the Rebels.  In this way Campaigns involving equally skilled players rarely feel unbalanced.  Fantasy Flight Games have done an excellent job of making each and every character feel unique, and equally important.  Of course there are characters like Gideon from the Core set that can combine with others to create powerful effects.  This in no way makes other characters feel insignificant.

Unpredictable turn sequence

An interesting departure from the majority of RPG style dungeon crawler games is Imperial Assault’s Turn sequence.  Instead of all the Rebel Players playing their turn, then the Imperial player taking theirs.  Each Character or unit takes their turn alternating between the Rebels and Imperials.  The order isn’t predetermined by initiative or any other means.  Each side selects which unit they would like to activate next after the opponent has completed their last activation.  This makes choosing which unit to use next, and how to use them quite similar to Chess.  Although the game is character driven.  Rebel Players will be upgrading, and levelling up their Heroes as the Campaign progresses.  Imperial Assault is first and foremost a Strategy based Board Game.  Resource management, time management, character formations, and even sacrificing characters play an important role.  The simplest of Actions could be the difference between winning or losing a mission.  All of these elements combined make for a very enjoyable game to play.

Is it Star Wars?

There are many games on the market that are based upon existing storylines.  Whether they are video game adaptations, movie adaptations, literary adaptations, or historical adaptations.  A recognizable background story can make a game appeal to a far greater number of people.  Obviously Star Wars is recognizable by most people.  The Star Wars universe is so well known that it places an even greater importance on creating something that feels authentic.  Well Fantasy Flight Games have done an excellent job of making each mission in Imperial Assault feel like a scene out of one of the movies.  The Rebels always seem to be out numbered.  Whenever they do appear to gain the upper hand.  A powerful Imperial character like Darth Vader shows up to wreck the day.  The sense of urgency that you feel throughout the majority of Star Wars films. The Rebels always seem to be running out of time.  That is also well represented in an Imperial Assault Campaign.  You might expect to see many of the most popular characters early and often in an Imperial Assault Campaign.  To be honest it’s what I expected the first time I played the game.  Well you would be wrong.  The Imperial Assault Campaign system does a good job of placing the importance on the Players Heroes, but still having your favourite characters from the movies be a factor.  This effectively helps keep everyone interested, and adds an additional element of excitement when a famous character from the Star Wars universe makes an appearance.

Conclusion

If you are a fan of the Star Wars universe, or just a fan of strategic dungeon crawler style Board Games.  Imperial Assault would make a great addition to your game collection.  As far as Campaign based Board Games go.  Imperial Assault has become my absolute favourite.  Although there are quite a few expansions, and character packs available.  Imperial Assault is perfectly playable with only the Core set.  If you have three or four friends that you can get together with on a regular basis.  Do yourself a favour and pick up a copy of Imperial Assault.  You won’t be disappointed.

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Amnesia The Dark Descent – The Gamer in me GL-13

Another great addition from PS Plus

If you like horror genre video games then The Dark Descent is definitely for you.  Currently Free to Playstation Plus Subscribers as part of the Amnesia Collection.  This game is unlike any other horror survival game I’ve ever played.  You are unsure of what your goal is at the beginning.  This is in keeping with the Amnesiac theme.  You are unarmed, although you can pick up a bottle or chair in a pinch and hope that helps.  Helpful hint here, it won’t!  You’re wondering around a dilapidated mansion without any sort of detailed map.  You’re even unsure of how much health your character has because it only tells you things like you are currently bruised.  The beauty of it is that the less you know, the scarier it is.

A surround sound system masterpiece

The game actually suggests that you should play it while wearing headphones for the greatest affect.  When you have a surround sound system like mine though, headphones aren’t necessary.  Just the sound effects are enough to freak most people out.  The Designers have done an excellent job of setting the mood through sound and lighting.  I should say the lack of lighting because like the title implies, The Dark Descent is definitely dark.  Thankfully you can light the occasional candle, or carry a lantern around with you to light the way.  Of course the brighter things get in the Mansion.  The more likely something undescribably horrible might find you, and viciously rip you a new one.

Defeating the Demons

In the event that you come across something menacing, or horrific.  Don’t immediately despair.  Play it right, and you can still make it out alive.

Option 1- find a dark place like in a closet or under some stairs, curl up into a little ball, and pray that whatever that thing was doesn’t find you.

Option 2- turn away from the freakish thing that you just saw, and run like your life depended on it, cause it does.  Keep running until you think you have escaped.  Then proceed to use Option 1.

Will you be frightened?

Yes you will.  Some people will try to argue with me about this.  There’s always that one person who claims to be totally unafraid.  What The Dark Descent succeeds in doing to everyone that plays it is make you incredibly nervous.  It achieves this in a number of ways.  I’m not going to tell you about each way because that would ruin the surprise.  What I will tell you is that it makes you doubt your characters sanity.  This isn’t a spoiler because one of your characters key stats is Sanity.  Of course like your character’s Health it isn’t represented by a quantifiable score.  There are times during the game where you may begin to wonder if what you are seeing is real or imagined.  That alone can be very disconcerting.  Then there’s the constant creaks, footsteps, opening and closing doors, and everything else that doesn’t feel right about the Mansion.  As soon as you think you have a feel for how the game operates.  That’s when things will suddenly get very different.

The more the merrier

Although you would think that The Dark Descent is probably best played on your own.  Like one of my other favourite games Until Dawn, it’s actually a blast to play with a few friends.  How each one of you is affected by the gameplay can actually increase the tension in the room.  Also the game can be so mentally, and psychologically taxing for some people.  That way somebody else can take over playing while they give themselves a rest.  I would definitely suggest that any fans of the horror genre download the Amnesia Collection.  Even people who don’t normally play horror games, but can appreciate a very well designed exploration game will like it.  Also if you have invested in a serious surround sound system like myself.  Then you would be doing yourself a disservice if you didn’t own this game.

 

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A sad reality. The Gamer in me GL-12

I didn’t want to believe it

For the last two months I’ve used my free time at home to play XCOM2 on the PS4.  The game is a year old now, but I never got around to finishing it when it was first released.  I’ve always loved the XCOM games, and this one is no exception.  What brought me back to it was the lack of interesting games that have been released this year.  I’m a bit picky with the games I choose to purchase.  I usually find something of interest every couple of months, but not this year.  Actually the next game I’m interested in purchasing is Hidden Agenda by the makers of Until Dawn.   Hopefully it doesn’t run into some last minute issues and get pushed back.  Not having anything new of interest for so long has had me feeling disappointed with my PS4.  I haven’t bothered discussing it because I felt like it was just me that felt this way.  Keep in mind that there have been some big game releases this year.  They’ve just been games that felt too much like games I’ve played before.  Injustice 2 and Tekken 7 we’re welcomed by fight game fans.  The Witcher 3 set the modern Open World Fantasy game standard.  Horizon: Zero Dawn, Nioh, and Resident Evil 7 are just a few others that made quite a few gamers happy.  Still none of these titles had me waiting for the game store to open on release day.  So obviously it had to be me right?

Not so fast

Last night I had a few friends over to my place for a birthday get together.  Ironically part of what made this party a success was playing That’s You on my PS4.  Even though I haven’t rushed out to the video game store that often this year.  I have taken advantage of the monthly releases PS Plus offers.  That’s You was one such release that has been worth downloading.  While playing the game one of my friends asked me if I use my PS4 very much anymore?  The question surprised me, but I answered quickly.  “Not really” I said.  “The only game I’ve been playing lately is XCOM2” I told him.  He wasn’t surprised at all.  He hadn’t played a game on his PS4 for months.  Another one of my friends decided to join the conversation, and he felt the same way.  The last game he bought on release day was Resident Evil 7.

He absolutely loved the game, but unfortunately beat the game in a single weekend.  All of us agreed that the majority of games that have been released this year are pretty generic.  They felt the same way as me.  Keep in mind that all of us are casual gamers.  We don’t play video games every day.  We will binge play a game we really like until it’s completed.  That just doesn’t happen all that often anymore.

What does it all mean?

Now that I know that it isn’t just me.  I have to wonder how this has negatively affected the video game market.  If more and more people are disinterested about the types of games being released these days.  Then the number of games sold must be decreasing.  If you have read my previous gaming posts.  Then you’ll know that I believe that the large video game production companies are releasing too many games each year.  A reduced interest could actually be the reason why.  If you don’t expect to sell a huge number of copies of a single game.  Then why not just attempt to sell an average number of copies of many games.  As long as you divide your development budget between all the games.  That way your expected profits will remain same.  All you really require is for the hardcore Gamers to blindly buy whatever you release.  Trust me,  more people buy every hyped game that comes out than you think.

All the recent talk about PS5 development.  The Ultra HD upgrade consoles that are already on the market.  The introduction of Playlink to allow more people to play in a party atmosphere.  All of this is beginning to feel like an industry that’s getting desperate for our attention.

The problem with peaking

What really caused all of this to happen?  I’ll tell you what did it.  Technology has peaked.  It wasn’t all that long ago that a major Game release meant that the quality of video games was about to take a step forward.  We couldn’t wait to see the improved graphics, or amazing attention to detail.  Even if the game wasn’t great.  Experiencing the newest technology at work for the first time made it worthwhile.

I just hope that Hidden Agenda doesn’t disappoint.  It’s the follow up to Until Dawn, which was the last game I purchased that really impressed me.  It is taking advantage of the Playlink system which adds to my interest.  Sony does deserve some credit for looking ahead to where video games are going.  Playlink and Playstation VR could be what keeps them on top for the foreseeable future.