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Hot Shots Shorties [Review]

Submitted by Ian Fisher on Wed, 01/12/2011 - 09:35
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Overall Feeling: 

Hot Shots Shorties is a series of mini-games that really shouldn’t be missed by anyone who likes kitschy Japanese games. The 12 games offered in the four Hot Shot Packs are nothing but pure fun; even if you’re doing something somewhat redundant like vacuuming. The games offered in Hot Shots Shorties may be a bit spastic in what they involve, but at the end of the day Hot Shots Shorties is the epitome of pure and simple video game fun.

The Pros: 

It doesn’t take long to finish a game in Hot Shots Shorties. Visually the game is rather nice as the cartoony visuals look sharp and have a very adorable Japanese style to them. The variety in the game is really nice as none of the games are similar or feature mechanics that are alike.

The Cons: 

No online support is a huge downer given the score centric nature of the game. Organizing books on a shelf isn’t that much fun compared to the other games offered in the collection.

ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
8

Over the years we’ve seen brands branch out to exciting new territories like a platform centric franchise suddenly spurring a kart racing game. Ever since the days of the original PlayStation the Hot Shots Golf franchise has become a mainstay that eventually hopped onto the PS2, PS3 and even the PSP.  The Hot Shots franchise did expand into another sport with Hot Shots Tennis for the PS2 and PSP.

God of War: Ghost of Sparta [Review]

Submitted by Ian Fisher on Mon, 11/22/2010 - 11:22
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Overall Feeling: 

Once again we have a God of War game for the PSP that packs an incredible punch in nearly every category. Developer Ready At Dawn once again crafted a GOW experience that is one of the most visually impressive games to appear on the handheld along with providing action and a story that stays true to the God of War we all love. Aside from a few issues concerning the camera and some lackluster weapons, Ghost of Sparta is a key highlight for the PSP and from a narrative standpoint since it features the best story to appear in a God of War game since GOW1. To put it simply, if you love God of War you need to play Ghost of Sparta as it offers an unforgettable experience.

The Pros: 

The visual fidelity the game offers is simply unreal at times. Even though the battles are epic and long, the pacing is almost perfect. While not heavily improved or modified, the combat and boss battles are still enjoyable and visceral. Music and voice acting is top notch as always.

The Cons: 

During a few occasions the camera can obscure enemies or certain parts of the environment. The difficulty in the game seems to be a bit toned down. Puzzle wise the game doesn’t feature anything too amazing, even by God of War standards.

ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
8

Looking back at the God of War franchise I feel somewhat old.

EyePet PSP [Review]

Submitted by Ian Fisher on Wed, 11/10/2010 - 09:15
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Overall Feeling: 

Despite the overload of cuteness and the easy going mini-games it offers, the PSP iteration of EyePet isn’t as refined or interactive as the PS3 version is. That’s to be expected when a PS3 game gets a PSP port, but in the process of making the jump to the PSP the game loses a lot of its charm and encounters some nagging issues that put a hamper on the experience. EyePet PSP is a well-produced game that has some nice augmented reality tech, but as a whole the game doesn’t match the experience that’s to be had on the PS3 version of EyePet.

The Pros: 

The amount of detail on EyePet is impressive as it sports some nice fur textures. With quite a few mini-games available, I never found myself bored as each provides a nice amount of challenge. When it works, the augmented reality tech is really impressive due to the scale and items it presents.

The Cons: 

Not being able to interact with the EyePet is a big downer. It’s required for the PSP camera to have a constant and very proper view of the magic card while playing otherwise the game will just stop until you line things up again. The amount of space required for some of the mini-games kind of kills the portable nature of the game. The load times can be really long at times.

ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
6

As much pillaging and reckless behavior gamers cause while playing games like Call of Duty, God of War or games of a similar ilk, that doesn’t mean gamers can’t sit back and play a relaxing albeit simplified game.  Earlier this year, Sony launched the EyePet franchise for the PS3 which had gamers using the PlayStation Eye and subsequently the PlayStation Move to control a small yet extremely lovable pet.  EyePet didn’t feature platforming, explosions galore or a stoic hero that occasionally sprouted an expletive upon dispatching an enemy.  All it had was one loveable little c

Aqua Panic! [Review]

Submitted by Ian Fisher on Mon, 11/01/2010 - 11:35
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Overall Feeling: 

Aqua Panic! is an easy going and fun puzzle game that despite its overly cute appearance offers a nice amount of depth. At times some of the puzzles can be simply brain busting annoying, but with a reasonable price point and unique mechanics, Aqua Panic! is yet another solid puzzle game for the PSN.

The Pros: 

The almost cartoon style visual and vibrant art style is nice. Puzzle fans should appreciate the level of challenge the various layouts present. It’s nice that you can skip a puzzle that proves to be too challenging.

The Cons: 

Could’ve used more variety in terms of the art design. While interesting, it would’ve been nice if the level layouts had more variety to them and perhaps a bigger scope. The music and sound effects are some of the most annoying things I’ve ever heard in a video game. Seriously, I had my sound settings on level 3 the entire time so I wouldn’t have a psychotic breakdown and hurl something at my TV.

ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
8

The PlayStation Network isn’t in short supply when it comes to puzzle games.  Come to think of it, the PSN has quite a diverse offering for those who like to flex their cerebral muscle. From games involving buttery beats, block flipping, and puking creatures into one another, the PSN has the full gamut of puzzle goodness. So with that being said I was quite interested to see what the new puzzle game Aqua Panic! would bring to the table in terms of mechanics and overall originality.  Being a chap who digs a well-executed puzzle game I was certainly hoping Aqua Panic!

Invizimals [Review]

Submitted by Ian Fisher on Tue, 10/19/2010 - 09:22
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Overall Feeling: 

Invizimals is a game that may be a bit simplistic in some respects but the tech and execution are there. With gameplay that is easy to get into, nicely designed monsters and a somewhat addicting leveling system, Invizimals may not soon become a behemoth like Pokémon, but it certainly is a nice alternative. Whether you’re a young gamer, have a kid who’s a gamer or are a kid at heart, Invizimals is worth checking out if you love monster battle games.

The Pros: 

Nice art style that doesn’t falter under the augmented reality of the game. Gameplay is fun and easy to get into. Despite the somewhat corny plot, the story is entertaining and the acting is good, if slightly over-the-top.

The Cons: 

Game would’ve benefitted from having a deeper combat system. Front-end visuals are a bit bland. Occasional snafus with the PSP camera can be annoying especially if it occurs during a match. Some of the monster catching mini-games can end too quickly.

ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
7

Over the past few years video games have in a way been missing something truly important: imagination on the part of the player.  With various games taking us to amazing worlds, whether it’s a sneaking mission in the Artic or battling alien forces in some far flung galaxy, games these days really don’t spark the imagination of the player.  That necessarily isn’t a fault of the game since as long as the universe, story and gameplay are good then gamers are good to go.

Sony Metal Gear Solid W-Series Walkman [Product Review]

Submitted by Ian Fisher on Wed, 07/21/2010 - 11:28
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Overall Feeling: 

The Metal Gear Solid W-Series Walkman isn’t a shameless tie-in product as it’s an excellent MP3 player. Featuring good sound quality and a small size that makes it easy to transport, the W-Series Walkman is an absolute steal if you're looking for a new MP3 and wish to expand your MGS collection.

The Pros: 

The sound quality is superb. Even though they may be camouflage, the design of the headphones is very nice and aren’t cumbersome or awkward to wear. Having five songs from the MGS Peace Walker soundtrack is a very nice bonus. Really good portability and battery life. The 2GB storage space is nice given the compact size of the headphones.

The Cons: 

During long listening sessions the earbuds can become a tad uncomfortable. The headphones may not have enough of an MGS theme for some. It would’ve been nice if a small bag or case was included to store the headphones when not in use.

ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
9

Even though video games are massively popular it’s still surprising to see the type of products or cross promotions that are created for big franchise games. One video game franchise that has always maintained a fair level of consistency amongst their products has been Metal Gear Solid.  Despite being one of the most popular and recognized video games ever created, MGS has kept things relatively low key with the standard action figures, limited edition t-shirts and a few themed peripherals.

Supermarket Mania [PSP Minis Review]

Submitted by Ian Fisher on Mon, 06/14/2010 - 06:51
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Overall Feeling: 

Even for those who enjoy casual games Supermarket Mania fails to impress. The concept is there but the execution is lacking and the variety is next to none. If you want a one-off game Supermarket Mania is worth checking out but it doesn't have the same addicting charm as other casual games on the market.

The Pros: 

Some may like the steep challenge presented in the later stages. The concept and accompanying "story" is silly fluff. The game is a nice time killer.

The Cons: 

The ramping difficulty makes things a bit cheap at times. Seeing the same character models constantly and doing the same things gets old really fast. Visuals and animation are a bit rough. Controls are really poor and feel clunky.

ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
6

Over the past decade we’ve seen the casual games market absolutely blow up. Video games were once looked at as something for kids or the geeky/nerdy audience but now games are enjoyed by everyone, even if it’s an 80 year-old grandma who enjoys playing Bejeweled.  Casual gaming on the consoles hasn’t been as prevalent as on the PC but with platforms such as the PSP, DS and Wii more and more games aimed towards the casual toward are being released. Case in point: Supermarket Mania for the PSP.

Hysteria Project [PSP Minis Review]

Submitted by Ian Fisher on Mon, 04/26/2010 - 14:30
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Overall Feeling: 

Hysteria Project can be best summed up as a project that falls short of greatness. An interesting premise and concept lead way to an experience that is at times held back by its budget and uninspiring gameplay. Despite the issues the game has I would still recommend checking out Hysteria Project especially if you’re a fan of old-school adventure games, merely for the thematic thrills and nostalgia it offers

The Pros: 

The story is rather captivating on a “WTF” level. Seeing FMV gameplay is nice, even if things are a bit blurry due to tech issues. For only $1.99 you won’t feel too bad that you wasted money if you weren’t satisfied with the game.

The Cons: 

The gameplay mechanics don’t feel thought out. All the adventure game style elements mean nothing as everything is rather linear. While shot nicely, the quality of the video isn’t as sharp as it could be and often results in blurry or pixilated images. Some may be pissed that the story isn’t wrapped up and you’ll need to pay another $2 to continue things.

ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
6

If you added elements from The Blair Witch Project, horror films and mechanics from adventure games like Heavy Rain the result would be the Hysteria Project.  Unless you’re a fanboy, oops I mean loyal follower, of the PlayStation brand then you may not know much about the Hysteria Project.  No, Hysteria isn’t a new fangled PS3 IP as it instead is a PSP Minis.  Utilizing FMV (that’s full motion video); Hysteria Project is an interesting concept that sadly falls short in some key aspects.

[Review] Dead or Alive Paradise

Submitted by Ian Fisher on Tue, 04/06/2010 - 02:33
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Overall Feeling: 

Dead or Alive Paradise is kind of pointless and doesn’t even offer any excitement from a T&A factor. Fans of Xtreme Beach Volleyball on the Xbox will surely be disappointed by the lackluster volleyball gameplay, constant loading and visuals that fail to convey the sexiness of the characters.

The Pros: 

There are a few nice music tracks. I guess there’s still bound to be some entertainment from staring at digital women, even if the visuals aren't stellar.

The Cons: 

Playing volleyball feels stiff and lacks any real fun to it. The casino will make you want to throw your PSP. Graphics are good in some instances but the character models are missing that immediate “sexy” factor that the Dead or Alive franchise is known for. Too many damn loading screens.

ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
4

I have something to admit that I feel a bit embarrassed about. It’s somewhat difficulty admitting this as it’s one of those things where people will look down at you and your girlfriend may shun you. I actually like Dead or Alive Paradise.  Now before all of you get in a tizzy and click the back button let me first explain. My enjoyment of Dead or Alive Paradise isn’t because of the enthralling gameplay, its artistic merits or because it has tons of bouncy boobs.  Instead my happiness from DoA Paradise stems from how damn silly the game is.

Is the PSP Go worth picking up?

Submitted by Ian Fisher on Sun, 10/04/2009 - 12:01
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Overall Feeling: 

The PSP Go is a slick system that works really well when it comes to form factor and design but is held back by a wallet punching price tag. If you're an existing PSP owner it's almost pointless to pick up the Go unless you're ready to abandon your old PSP. Just like the PS3 we're going to have a situation where people won't be picking up the PSP Go because of a price tag that is just ridiculous.

The Pros: 

Sleek design that despite the smaller size feels incredibly good when it's in your hands. The screen is as sharp as ever and doesn't feel too small. And finally the PSP is a system that you can easily take with you since the size of the PSP Go makes it extremely easy and comfortable to put in pockets or bags.

The Cons: 

The price tag. Seriously, the thing is a deal breaker and will surely prevent many from picking the console up. The lack of any new features or key improvements make the PSP Go a console that doesn't have that immediate "I need to get this now" factor.

ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
7

When it comes to console redesigns Sony really doesn’t seem to be getting a lot of love. A lot of people hated the look of the PS3 Slim despite liking its new slimmer form factor but when it came to the PSP Go almost everyone seemed to trash it.  Now is this a case of people not understanding what Sony is trying to achieve with the PSP Go or are they justified in their disdain for the new addition to the PSP family?

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