NEOGEO X Gold LE: Delay of Game Equals More Anticipation (As Well As Some Rustproofing)…

 

Sometimes, delays are a good thing, provided you’re taking the glass half full approach. To wit: Best Buy notified me that my order would be delayed until the 18th, but no biggie. That gives me more time to practice playing a few games on that really fine PS2 collection from a few years back. After all these years I’m still absolutely, completely terrible at Magician Lord (and probably will still be), so I’m going to be spending a few hours trying not to die so much or jump up and down on a controller after losing that final life.

For newbies, let me very safely state that NeoGeo games aren’t for rage-quitters at all. Nope, if you get all Hulky and throw that big ol’ heavy arcade stick down, you’ll probably break a toe (and need to go spend a small fortune replacing it. Er, the controller, not your toe). The X’s replicated arcade stick seems to be of similar quality (and not inexpensive either), but I’m definitely NOT going to be tossing it around when I lose. Now you know why they call throw pillows THROW pillows. Just aim for something non-breakable (and not the family pet, lest you get that toe you didn’t break earlier chewed on while you sleep)…

Far Cry 3: I Haven’t Played It Yet, But I’m Already Hooked In…

Thanks to having so many other games to play through this month, I know I won’t get around to playing Far Cry 3 until next year. However, from what I’ve seen so far (a friend has it and is having a total blast), I’m going to be REALLY busy in Crytek’s massive open-world shooter. I spent an hour or so watching someone play and it looks as if the game allows you to do what you want on those islands outside the main story line (a great thing). Sure, you’re still killing men and animals by the boatload, but the story sections are compelling from the beginning and you can get your character’s motivations and grasp his rather insane situation thanks to some excellent writing and motion captured performances. Hmmmm… maybe I’ll skip a few games and pick this up sooner than later after all… we shall see.

The Last of Us Story Teaser: Naughty Dog’s Survival Epic Means Business

With the so-called “aging” PS3 heading into its last year or so as a viable console, it’s really great to see developers like Naught Dog keep forging ahead with key AAA titles for the console that will absolutely be worth that $60 price tag. The Last of Us just may be one of the best console games of this generation as well as one more example of how story-driven games will always be superior to the usual multiplayer madness that’s about as deep as a broken teacup. Keep your eyes on this one, folks – it’s going to be quite special…