Category Archives: For GFN
Review: Toy Soldiers Cold War
Originally posted by MYASHARONA at GamerFitNation
Chances are that if you were born sometime after 1987 then your recollections or impressions of the cold war are easily unimpressive if existent at all. The “cold war” refers to a long running political conflict between the communist soviet states and, primarily, the United States from 1946 to the early 1990s. The result of this long running conflict, aside from the obvious civil wars, revolution combat, invasions, and military conflict, was a fascination with related toys that spanned decades. What better setting for Toy Soldiers: Cold War to take place than in the bedroom of a 1980’s child fascinated with military trinkets.
Signal Studios’ sequel to Toy Soldiers, Toy Soldiers: Cold War, is a fun new take on their initial tower defense gameof the same name. The setting, specifically the era, allows for a great amount of movie and toy box nostalgia for those of us in the 30+ demographic, and incorporates all of the fantastic cheesy action that made the 80s so great. The game features 1980s-era military technology, and is like previously eluded to it is based around the idea of military aggression escalating between the United States and the USSR. Toy Soldiers: Cold War features a blend of third-person action and strategy.
The toy box is your tower and there a number of places where you can set up your camps. The exciting part about your camps is that you can jump in and out of them to control them at any time. Often I felt as though I needed to participate in this first person action to ensure success. The ability to control your RC vehicles also comes in handy as you may choose to let your camps battle it out while you fly around in your RC helicopter unloading a wave of missiles so long as your battery is charged. Increasing your score also allows for special barrages and one of the very first barrages I achieved unlocked our good friend Rambo..erm..”commando” who was released spewing a healthy dose of cheesy lines and bazooka blows while you lead him to take out a wave on enemies on the ground. There are all kinds of strikes and bombs to unlock to help you destroy the waves of toy soldiers, in all matter of military aggression, who are coming for your toy box.
As I played through the campaign the more waves I killed the more money I made. This is important because your camps will need repairs and upgrades throughout the game. You will need these upgrades as you prepare for the inevitable boss that comes at the end of the level. It seems like one foul swoop of the boss, or a simple roll over, and all your camps are gone, so it is important to consider your tower defense strategy in the midst of all of the action.
There are numerous multiplayer options available in Toy Soldiers: Cold War and given the campaign and the multiplayer modes this game is a great value for your dollar. Unlike more tower defense games Toy Soldiers: Cold War will keep you interested for a long time. While the game could easily become stagnant and repetitive, it rarely does. The Top Gun and Rambo references, the overt nostalgia, and the variety in game modes, all allow for hours of enjoyment. Becoming a decorated hero means earning achievements for things like using a fighter’s machine gun to destroy a soviet fighter or surviving more than 9 rounds in any survival game. Decorations will help you squeeze even more value for your dollar out of Toy Soldiers: Cold War on Xbox Live Arcade.
Toy Soldiers: Cold War by Signal Studios is available on XBLA and according to their official website we may be in store for some upcoming DLC.
Sources: http://www.signalstudios.net/toy-soldiers-cold-war/cold-war-propaganda/ http://www.historylearningsite.co.uk/what%20was%20the%20cold%20war.htm http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cold_War
Great Games for your Family Library
Originally posted by MYASHARONA at GamerFitNation
So you just picked up Gears of War 3, or you’ve been playing through Dead Island, OR you’re waiting patiently to add Saints Row: The Third or Assassin’s Creed Revelations to your library. Why not expand your family gaming library by adding some of the games that you can enjoy with your kids.
Have a peek at just some of the titles available starting now and throughout the next few months.
Face Racers: Photo Finish
System:Nintendo 3DS
No. of Players:up to 4 players
Category:Sports, Racing
Publisher:Majesco Entertainment
ESRB: E For Everyone (contains comic mischief)
Available: Now
Start your turbo-charged engines and blast into the outrageous arcade racing game, Face Racers: Photo Finish, with photo customizable 3D racers that put YOU in the game! Available on the Nintendo 3DS, Face Racers delivers unique, in-your-face gameplay, with dangerous obstacles that come to life in 3D right before your eyes! Take photos with your 3DS camera and place them on the face of your custom 3D racer, billboards and power-ups. Take on friends in multiplayer mode for a true photo finish in Face Racers!
Features include
• Use your photo to customize your racer, billboards, and power-ups!
• Challenge up to 3 friends in local and online multiplayer.
• Take control of the wheel with 3DS tilt-steering.
Kirby Mass Attack
System: Nintendo DS
No. of Players: 1 player
Category: Side-Scrolling, Real Time Strategy
ESRB: E for Everyone
Available: Now
The evil Necrodeus uses his magic staff to split the heroic Kirby into 10 copies of himself. Players must help Kirby return to his original form and save planet Popstar from darkness by guiding him on a quest through worlds fraught with enemies and obstacles. Players start with one Kirby and add more Kirbys to their crew by gobbling up fruit. With unique touch-screen controls, players can then use the stylus to flick Kirbys to break through obstacles, tap on enemy attackers to swarm them with Kirbys or gather Kirbys together and draw a line to carefully maneuver them in a mass. If Kirbys are knocked out, players can simply gulp down more fruit to rebuild their numbers.
“With 10 Kirbys to control, players can expect 10 times the fun,” said Ron Bertram, Nintendo of Canada’s vice-president and general manager. “As consumers start thinking about games for friends and family members to enjoy this holiday season, Kirby Mass Attack is another great experience available only on Nintendo systems.”
Happy Feet Two – The Video Game
System: Nintendo Wii, Xbox 360, Playstation 3, and soon to Nintendo DS
No. of Players: 1 player
Publisher: Warner Bros.
Available: Autumn 2011 for PS3 Wii Xbox
November 2011 for 3DS & DS
“In Happy Feet Two – The Videogame, kids will not only love playing on their own, they will have even more fun playing side-by-side cooperatively with friends and family members, or compete in penguin dance showdowns and belly sliding races,” said Samantha Ryan, Senior Vice President, Production and Development, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. “The game’s all new, controller-based dance system uses the player’s rhythm to enhance the dancing competitions, and the gameplay lets kids interact with their favourite characters from the film.”
In the game, new dangers are threatening the penguin nation, and it’s going to take everyone working – and dancing – together to save them from extinction. Players use dance moves to recruit penguins with unique abilities that help advance the adventure, stun opponents and enemies, as well as manipulate the environment around them to solve co-operative puzzles.
For the ultimate experience, players can dance their Antarctic adventure in 3D. The game will be available in full 3D for the Nintendo 3DS. In the Xbox 360 and PlayStation versions, the game is made specifically for stereoscopic 3D TV sets with the ability to disable 3D functionality at any time. The Wii and Nintendo DS versions feature traditional 2D.
uDraw SpongeBob’s Surf and Skate Roadtrip
System: Nintendo DS, Xbox 360
Available: 08/11/2011 for the DS and November 8th for the Xbox 360
Publisher: THQ
No. of Players: 1-2 players
ESRB: E for Everyone
Hit the sand and surf with SpongeBob and his best pal, Patrick, for some super boarding escapades! Ride mondo waves and winding waterways, and skate gnarly seaside streets and ramps for hours of challenges that’ll test your awesome boarding skills.
SpongeBob’s Surf & Skate Roadtrip is non-stop action featuring 2 modes of play” Story and Challenge. In Story Mode, SpongeBob and Patrick relive their crazy road trip to the beach through slideshows leading into arcade-style play. Freestyle your way through Challenge Mode as you, SpongeBob and his bodacious Bikini Bottom buddy explore a brand new never-before-seen world.
Key Xbox 360 Kinect Features:
- For the first time ever, you can BE SpongeBob
- Augmented reality—move your hand through the water and watch it splash!
- Compete and play with friends – show off your awesome tricks and mind-blowing stunts in head-to-head play (2-player split-screen)
- 12 awe-inspiring environments – 6 for each sport—and unlimited ways to perfect your board skills
- 7 different challenges including Flag, Timed, Score Runs
- Express yourself with a variety of righteous boards – earn even more awesome boards, the better you ride
- Strike a pose: use your camera to show off gnarly moves and tricks
Key DS Features: [call out BONUS LEVEL for DS]
- Surf and Skate across more than 24 maps
- 2-player multi-play with Single and Multi-card gaming
- Grab some air in 5 different victory conditions – Score, Collectible, Combo Mayhem, Win the Race, Untouchable
- More than 150 ways to play for unlimited hours of boarding action
- Customize your boards with colors, stamps, wheels, fins and decks
- Bonus Sport: Full Snowboarding level with 10 maps unlocked upon game completion
Super Mario 3D Land
System:Nintendo 3DS
Release Date:Nov 13, 2011
No. of Players:1 player
Category:Action, Platformer
Publisher:Nintendo
ESRB: E for Everyone
Get Ready for a New Spin on a Familiar Tail
Super Mario 3D Land reinvents everything fans love about Mario™ gaming with the first platforming environment in true 3D, without the need for special glasses Players will experience an exhilarating new sense of depth, distance and speed while running, jumping and stomping on enemies throughout the levels.
- Tanooki Mario returns! The fan-favorite Tanooki suit makes its first appearance on the Nintendo 3DS. Use the Tanooki suit’s tail to attack enemies or float gently down from great heights. These abilities help players move through the 3D environments with more confidence.
- 3D visuals make it easier for players to judge the depths and distances in their environments. Players can more accurately judge the jump to the next platform or how far Mario is from a question block.
- New and familiar abilities add unique game-play strategies to the adventure. Mario can perform a rolling somersault attack or run fast with a dash move.
- The Circle Pad gives players complete control to confidently move Mario through fun and challenging environments.
- New enemies include Goombas with tails, tall stacks of Goombas and a Piranha Plant that spits ink to obscure a player’s view.
Lego Harry Potter: Years 5-7
System: 3DS, DS, PC, PS3, PSP, Wii, X360, PSV
Available: 18/11/2011 for 3DS, DS, PC, PS3, PSP. Wii, 360 and during Q4 for the PSV
Publisher:Warner Bros.
LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5-7 builds upon the magical gameplay, lessons and potion-making skills learned in LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1-4 to equip gamers with the tools necessary to challenge a host of new foes and some familiar ones (including He Who Must Not Be Named). The upcoming title is action-packed from start to finish, including loads of new lessons, spells, and bonus content for hours of family friendly gaming.
LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5-7 takes players through Harry Potter’s heroic adventures in the Muggle and wizarding worlds. From Privet Drive in Little Whinging to Diagon Alley, Hogsmeade and Hogwarts – plus new locations including Grimmauld Place, the Ministry of Magic, and Godric’s Hollow – players will encounter new faces, new challenges and new magic, preparing them for the ultimate face-off against Lord Voldemort™.
“In LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5-7, we are giving gamers a truly epic conclusion to the most successful movie franchise in history with delightful gameplay for fans of all ages,” said Tom Stone, Managing Director, TT Games. “We have built upon the first game and are giving fans even more magical abilities, puzzle solving and exploration, in addition to our distinctive brand of hilarious LEGO humour and charm.”
“LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5-7 offers Harry Potter and LEGO fans an immersive experience that is fun and accessible for players of all ages,” said Samantha Ryan, Senior Vice President, Development and Production, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. “With this game, TT Games captures everything fans love about the Harry Potter universe – and adds a distinct LEGO twist.”
“This game is a game of magic! LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5-7 distils the drama and action of Harry Potter‘s magical world, and then gives players the chance to immerse themselves in their favourite characters and environments, where they can discover new adventures and have great fun,” said Lisbeth Valther Pallesen, Executive Vice President, LEGO CED. “TT Games has successfully combined a deep appreciation of the Harry Potter story with signature LEGO humour and superior production capabilities in another fantastic LEGO video game.”
The Penguins of Madagascar Dr. Blowhole Returns Again!
System: Nintendo DS, Wii uDraw Xbox 360 Playstation 3
Available: Now!
Publisher: THQ
ESRB: E for Everyone
Dr. Blowhole is out to take over the world and only Team Penguin can foil his diabolical plans. Jump into an all-new adventure with 3 unique game episodes and over 12 exciting levels. Lead Skipper, Kowlaski, Rico and Private as you commence super-secret missions in, under and outside of the zoo, culminating in the grand finale in Dr. Blowhole’s Lair.
Features
- Brand New, Original Story
- Dr. Blowhole, the diabolical dolphin, is back with his lobster minions and a new plan for world domination and it’s up to Team Penguin to stop him from his wave of destruction.
- Solve perilous puzzles, build crazy contraptions, nimbly navigate hazards and rescue Marlene, Mort, and the rest of the zoo crew in your mission to save the world.
- Penguin Power!
- Utilize each penguin’s unique abilities to overcome obstacles and solve puzzles. Use Skipper to assemble the team, Rico to regurgitate explosives, Kowalski to build devices and Private to squeeze through tight spaces – the possibilities are endless!
- Mini-games
- Play through a multitude of wacky mini-games, including Ninja Knock-Down, Mort Bowling and even a dance-off with everyone’s favorite lemur, King Julien.
Have a great title in your family library that everyone in your family loves? We’d love to share it with our GamerFitNation. Be sure to leave us a comment about the family friendly titles that get extra attention in your house.
10 Reasons Dating a Gamer Rocks!
Originally posted BY MYASHARONA at GamerFitNation
So it’s 2011 and suddenly being a geek became the ‘cool’ thing to do. Mainstream acceptance of comic book, sci-fi, and tech loving folk has not only made so-called geeks feel more comfortable with their place in society, but now a days it is hard not to find a person who won’t profess their nerdish tendencies about something in particular (and yes regular video game players somehow seem to fall into this category). Like all social sways this has opened up a whole new look on the dating world and the people in it.
In as far back as 2005 Craigslist user published this post (here) about the reasons she thought nerdy boys made for better boyfriends. In a more recent post, on well trafficked site Gizmodo, (here) a female contributor published a post about her dating experience with an avid player of Magic the Gathering and did so in a way that would suggest that dating a gamer is a bad thing. Whether you are akin to the current geek trend, confused or bewildered by it, or simply don’t give a rat’s behind, here are what I consider to be
10 Reasons Dating a Gamer Rocks.
*Please note that my list is not based on scientific studies, surveys, or even unofficial polls but rather a lifetime of long term, long distance, and, in some cases,online dating. The following are vast generalizations about the benefits of dating male or female gamers based on my experiences and each person is an individual who may or may not share in these personality traits regardless of their interests in video, table top, and card games.
#1. Gamers are Young at Heart. Being able to see the value in entertainment, playing with friends, and allowing for an appropriate amount of time for escapism can really aid in coping with the everyday stresses of life. No matter what your age being young at heart suggests that you don’t let the problems of the world over-whelm the ability to enjoy life. For the most part gamers have this one in the bag.
#2. Gamers are Smart. Many gamers spend a lot of time learning about the games they play. Whether it is an intricate battle system, a challenging environment, a detailed plot, a cast of characters, or just about any other system required to play a good game well, gamers are learners. Often times problem solving skills, ability to troubleshoot tech devices, and a broad knowledge of history and the world can be associated with folks who revel in some interactive entertainment on a regular basis. I’m not getting scientific or anything here but trying to have an intelligent conversation with a gamer is almost never disappointing.
#3. Gamers are Social. YES, it’s true. Despite the popular belief that gamers are antisocial awkward human beings who never interact with ‘the outside world’, this is a very damaging misconception. The truth of the matter is that gamers ARE social and also tech savvy. Gamers will chat in game, online, and over the internet. Gamers gather and role dice together, LAN together, and even party together. Don’t believe me? Take a visit to your next nearest con or just watch some of the footage from big name events like PAX, Comicon, or FanExpo and you’ll see that gamers are social and always ready for fun.
#4. Gamers are Romantic. There are so many out of game proposals that gamers have created with the utmost thought, romance, and sincerity but for the sake of this argument I turn your attention to in-game exhibit A and B Exhibit A.
-
- Exhibit B
The truth of the matter is that gamers just get it. They understand that conventional romance is not the only kind of romance and know that in order to obtain your affections, long term, they need to tap into the things that make youswoon (even if it’s not gaming related). My heart swells every time I see that CT in game proposal or think about all the effort it took to create the Portal 2 proposal. 
#5. Gamers are accepting. Gamers are people who, prior to the ‘geek is chic’ craze, found themselves standing just on the cusp of social acceptance. Because of this, gamers will not only accept you for all the things that make you who you are but they will love you for it. Passionate about gardening? A gamer is not a likely candidate to criticize your overt ‘nerding-out’ about the latest perennials. Like to relax on the weekends in just jeans and tee? Gamers are (in my opinion) less likely to see that you aren’t in your top threads but rather see you for who you are as a beautiful person ‘on the inside’ and junk!
#6. Gamers are creative. Due to the fantastical escapism that games often afford it is difficult to find a gamer that is completely devoid of all creativity. Many people who enjoy, and are passionate about, video games like to share that passion through creative means. Writing, cosplay, fanart, creating music, videos, even game mods and game creation, are all examples of the creativity of gamers.
#7. Gamers aren’t shallow. While you still want to date someone you are physically attracted to and who takes good care of themselves to (and vice versa), gamers are often not completely obsessed with the things we associate with a shallow or high maintenance partner. While gamers do like to try and play the newest title of their favorite franchise first, they are often ready to go purchase it themselves and they are even less likely to demand that you buy it for them to sustain the relationship. Gamers like you for who you are and appreciate the fact that you either share their interest or at least tolerate it.
#8. Gamers share. A gamer will share with you in an instant. Sharing favorite games, knowledge, information, or passions are not uncommon for gamers. This is why there is an overabundance of gaming blogs, good and bad, gameplay videos, and clans/guilds on the net. Gamers like to share. It’s not likely that you will enter a relationship with a gamer, express an interest in what they are playing, and have them dissuade you from picking up the controller, cards, or dice yourself. Just like sports, cooking, collecting, or whatever your passions may be, sharing those passions with someone you love can be a very sexy thing.
#9. Gamers are loyal. If your gaming partner is anything like most, they would rather spend the effort it takes to raid the dungeon, fight the demon, collect the mana, or increase the KDR than be out in some bar trying to pick up. After all he or she has you, and aside from a great group of friends with common interests, some snacks, and a few consecutive hours do get the job done, a gamer doesn’t typically ask for a whole lot more.
#10. Gamers are no different than anyone else. Let’s face it, you should not date someone who is a gamer just because they are (male OR female) nor should you dismiss them because of it. People are people are people. Some gamers are jerks as much as some non-gamers are jerks but the things that make each of us special and unique will always go far beyond what a person’s hobbies might be. Gaming might be a part of who someone is, but it isn’t ALL someone is.
The dating scene can be fun and exciting and so can it be tiresome and daunting but when it comes right down to it, finding someone special to share your favorite parts of life can be worth all the effort you put in. According tothis website
“As long as you get real with yourself, stop making excuses, know what your really want, stick to it and make it clear to the people that you date, then you will be safe from too many mixed messages, misunderstandings and frustrations. When you treat your goal of meeting the right person seriously and important, then you will stay motivated to find him or her, and when you do- you will finally be able to begin the kind of relationship that you have always longed for, needed and deserve.”
The Game you can’t Lose! Sharon challenges GamerFitNation
Originally posted BY MYASHARONA at GamerFitNation.com
I love gaming and I love getting fit. The geniuses at Fitocracy made a site just for me* and people like me. Combining game elements like level ups and quest achievements for fitness workouts is exactly the kind of motivation a gamer like me needs to track my fitness goals and push me to go further and work harder. And with the help of Fitocracy’s Richard Talens I have something special to offer the GamerFItNation Community so keep reading!
What is Fitocracy? (from Fitocracy.com)
Fitocracy is the game you play to improve your fitness. Play it to track your progress, compete against your friends, and get real results in your physical fitness.
To play, just enter your fitness activities on the Play page every day. As you enter your activities into Fitocracy, you’ll earn points. Over time, you’ll earn enough points to get to the next level. Leveling up means you’ve been keeping up with your fitness. But watch out, every so often leveling up unlocks a special challenge. Beating the challenges and leveling up means you’re making progress.
Who is Fitocracy?
The Team
|
Brian Wang Cofounder | CEO |
Richard Talens Cofounder | CTO |
Daniel Roesler Senior Engineer
|
As fitness geeks, Brian and Richard often talked about their experiences helping friends improve their fitness. They would often provide advice and guidance only to see their friends give up for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it’d be because they didn’t see progress quickly enough. Other times it’d be because they didn’t have others to work out with them. And many times it’d be because working out was just… well, work.
So in August 2010, Richard got the idea: what if fitness could be turned into a game? After all, both he and Brian understood how addictive it could be trying to get to that next level, beating that next boss, and completing that next quest (not that they spent their childhoods doing that or anything…) They also realized that the addiction games create was the exact same addiction that drives their fitness weights every day.
And so Fitocracy was born. Fitocracy’s mission is to make fitness a more fun, more addictive experience. Play Fitocracy to beat challenges, push your boundaries, and show your friends who’s boss. Get addicted to your fitness. –Fitfocracy.com
Why I LOVE Fitocracy:
It works, plain and simple. I will openly admit that my biggest obstacle when it comes to fitness is motivation. When I was going to the gym it was easy. I would schedule my workout times like I would a doctor’s appointment. I would make plans to meet a workout buddy at the gym to keep me accountable and the workouts came easily. Over the past year I have left the gym and been working out from home, using the outdoors, home gym equipment, and videos to keep me sharp. We all know that one of the great things about working out from the comfort of your own home IS the comfort of your own home.
When I joined Fitocracy a short time ago I immediately joined a ‘group’ of fellow gamers and logged what I considered to be my lackluster workout for that day. I instantly gained a level and an achievement (complete with badge) upon tracking my workout. This was cool! Then what started happening is that other people in my group were giving me ‘props’ for my workout (the equivalent to a facebook ‘like’ or google ‘+’). The next thing I knew I was not only giving props to others but I was also waiting for the props of my online workout buddies. I was able to talk about what routines I was practicing, even discuss nutrition, and people started sharing tips and advice with each other in a really positive way. But it’s not all pats on the back! The group and public leaderboards also make it competitive. It doesn’t matter what fitness regime you use, as you are awarded points based on your tracking. So for example while I am heading into week two of P90X, many of my fellow users are running, weight training, and/or practicing yoga. We can compete together across a broad spectrum of fitness programs.
And before I tell you about our GREAT GamerFitNation news I will tell you a little bit more about how this works.
from the Fitocracy FAQs
What do the points mean?
You earn points for every action you log in Fitocracy. Some actions are worth more than others depending on how difficult they are. As you earn points, you’ll see your progress bar fill up. Points are a way of keeping score of how much weight you’re putting into your fitness!
What are levels?
Levels are a way to see how far along you are in your personal fitness. Getting to the next level means that you’ve made progress.
How do I level up?
You level up once you’ve earned a certain number of points. As you progress, the number of points you need for higher levels increases. Sometimes there will even be a challenge for you to complete once you’ve earned all your points before you can move onto the next level.
What are achievements?
Achievements are recognitions for when you do something extra special. They’re designed to be showed off so when you get one, display it loud and proud
What are quests?
Quests are optional goals you can try to beat in order to win huge bonus points. You don’t have to attempt them to progress in Fitocracy but doing so is a great way to push yourself further.
What’s the leaderboard?
The leaderboard displays the top X number of players in a few different ways. You can view top achievers of all time, by month, or by week. It can also show you how you stack up against people in your area, people of your age/gender, etc.
The Surprise
Are you ready to join? Well guess what Fitocracy is currently only in beta. “Oh no!” you might be thinking, but don’t fret, I got your back. GamerFitNation has an exclusive group invite just for the community here at GamerFitNation. By signing up with this code you will automatically be connected to the GamerFitNation Group where, upon reaching 100 members, I will be posting our first (in a line of many) fitness challenge. Here we will be able to compete with each other as well as encourage one another to stay on top of our own personal and collective fitness goals.
The Challenge
Our group challenges will reflect our users and the workouts we are logging. We will aspire to gain the most points during a given time, see if we can raise our group’s average level, or see who can get some of the rarest achievements. Here’s the catch though, we won’t start posting challenges until our GamerFitNation group is 100 people strong. Then it’s “Watch out World! Here comes the Gamer Fit Nation!”
Lexington Fit Club
To join me in the first GamerFitNation Fitocracy Fitness Challenge simply sign up at http://ftcy.co/ruSWTu and use our special invite code: GAMERFIT . Start connecting with other members in the group and track your workouts to see those wonderful achievements start showing up on your profile.
Edited to add: If the site is still down for maintenance (a rarity) keep your invite code handy and check back to sign up and join me. I’ll be logging my Plyometrix workout today as soon as it is open again too! =)A BIG GamerFitNation “Thank You” to Richard Talens, Brian Wang, and Daniel Roesler for the special group invite and for sharing our manifesto of bringing gaming and fitness together. Great job!
*They did not make the site just for me but it sure feels like they did. 😉
Your Shape Fitness Evolved 2012 at X’11 Canada
Originally posted by MYASHARONA at GamerFitNation
Your Shape Fitness Evolved 2012 is the new sequel to Your Shape: Fitness Evolved, the #1 fitness game on Kinect. At a recent Xbox event, in Toronto Ontario, I had the opportunity to meet with game designer Nicola Godin and try out the new title. Not only was this my first time with Your Shape but also only a handful of times I had ever tried the kinect. I had a TON of fun and can’t wait to try it further!
Sharon and Nicola pose in front of Your Shape FE 2012.Exercise your way with a customizable, social and fun experience that delivers serious results. As one of the most extensive fitness offerings on the market, Your Shape includes over 90 hours of activities. Your Shape provides an even wider array of activities to suit your tastes and fitness goals, including zen classes, latin dance and boot camp. The state-of-the-art motion tracking has been pushed to the next level with brand-new floor movements and an enhanced feedback system that guides you on how to improve your technique and results.
FEATURES
- WHERE FITNESS AND MAGIC MEET – Your Shape will take players into a stimulating world showcasing an array of captivating visual effects and an environment that will transform as their workouts evolve in the game. The improved player projection will allow players to see themselves in the Your Shape universe and keep a close eye on their workouts.
- FITNESS YOUR WAY – You choose how you want to play! Do you want a personal trainer to help meet your set fitness goals? Or do you want to focus on a specific muscle group? You can also build a program around the time you have to work out.
- A WORLD OF FITNESS IN YOUR LIVING ROOM – Your Shape contains activities for everyone and anyone. Players will be able to try new workout routines such as Latin, Hip-hop, Pop, African and Bollywood. There’s a broad selection of classes and games available, including Zen, Kick Boxing, Boot Camp and Jump Rope. A new and unique feature called Run the World will enable players to run virtually through the streets of New York, Paris or London and enjoy the environment.
- BEST-IN-CLASS TRACKING NOW WITH NEW FLOOR MOVES – With an enhanced feedback system, players can now get feedback on how to improve their technique and results. With this recent technology, Your Shape now tracks floor movements, allowing new activities such as push-ups and sit-ups.
- MONITOR YOUR PROGRESS AND CHALLENGE YOUR FRIENDS – Using Your Shape Center, players can monitor their progress, challenge their friends and see how they rank against players from across the world. They can also share their achievements on Facebook or keep in shape using Your Shape mobile applications. With hundreds of millions of calories already burned, our goal is for the community to burn 1billion calories collectively by the end of 2012.
Is Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet the new Solar Jetman?
An ITSP review story by MyaSharona
Originally posted BY MYASHARONA at GamerFitNation
If you have kids, or ever spent time with one you already know how early our fascination with space can start. This is probably why any time I see an adorable spaceship (like the one found in Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet) I can’t help but sing the preschooler’s Zoom Zoom Zoom song and it may also be why I am fascinated with Nasa’s space stream on Roku. Regardless of the reasons, space is a beloved mysterious location that is perfect for the imagined dangers that can only take place in video games.
Just before I began my adventure with Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet I mentioned, in passing, to my boyfriend about my newest project. As I eluded to in the game preview (here), I was extremely excited to get my hands on the video game work of fellow Sheridan Alumni, renowned artist, Michel Gagne. In typical retro gamer fashion my fella asked me if it was anything like Solar Jetman of NES fame. I of course had no recollection of the game (don’t worry kids, one day you too will complain of a memory that isn’t what it used to be) and decided to play the two side by side.
Here’s where ITSP and Solar Jetman are similar:
- Multi Directional Shooter
- SpaceShip
- Unearthly Planet
- Exploration
But that is about as far as I conclude the similarities are rooted. You will of course find the metroidvania style play in ITSP that is sure to appeal to the older more experienced gamer.
Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet is an exploratory, puzzle solving, testament to the ‘art as video games’ mentality. With both a single player campaign and online multiplayer modes the short but satisfying experience may draw you in for multiple visits. ITSP includes smooth controls and a polished game play experience which means there is something for everyone in this Summer of Arcade gem.
Your journey through the ominous sounding Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet begins on a small platform with an adorable alien. The assembly of his/your spaceship occurs and ‘voila!’ you are ready to navigate out of your home hub and into the planet. Starting with the bare minimum it is up to you to locate and discover your next point of interest. Don’t worry you are not completely alone in this task; your trusty map will point you in the right direction. During your gameplay you will navigate through various areas of the planet (organic, mechanical, etc), fighting foes, collecting weapons tools upgrades and bonus assets, all while solving puzzles. In familiar fashion many paths and points within the specific area you are exploring will not be accessible to you until you acquire the next tool or upgrade. For this reason you had best be okay with backtracking to previously visited areas.
The beautifully rich and creative environments and creatures are nothing short of artistically inspiring. The silhouette style presentation of the graphics are perfectly suited for this style of gameplay. Each and any screenshot is a prime example of the saturating experience with ITSP graphics.
The controls of your spaceship in ITSP are very intuitive and was probably the biggest relief for me when switching from Solar Jetman. Navigate your ship and your tools using the analogue sticks and a quick hit of the bumper will reveal your wheel of weaponry. Use your weapon wheel to assign four quick access tools to the XYAB buttons. In some of your larger battles/puzzles you may wish that you could more easily switch out your four tools for faster reaction to the environments and enemies but the game is easy enough without giving you everything.
This brings me to my only real criticism of the game. ITSP is easy, short and easy. The length can be forgiven by the fact that the game also contains an online multiplayer experience (with up to 4 players) called ‘Lantern Run’. Lantern Run will add some replay value to your purchase and the chaos contained therein will guarantee loads of fun for you and your friends. Aside from getting crazy with more players and more lanterns, though, ITSP is a pretty easy game. Achievement hungry players will have no trouble getting all of the ‘bwoop bweep’ they desire in one play through. Even though there are no verbal cues there are visual ones and it won’t take your hard earned BFA to pick up on them.
Even though your experience may be brief, and not at all like taking the SATs, it will be a satisfactory one. The audio and visual cinematics keep you wanting more. Upon discovering the final boss battle of this oh so twisted planet I found myself hoping that it wasn’t.
So is Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet the new Solar Jetman? My answer is no. ITSP is a new and visually delicious puzzle game with fluid controls, polished gameplay, featuring unique characters and environments.
Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet is available NOW on Xbox Live Arcade.
Grab a lantern and let’s play!
TapTap Glee Because It’s Free!
Originally posted BY MYASHARONA at GamerFitNation.com
Well, sort of…
Tapulous and Fox Digital Entertainment recently announced Tap Tap Glee would be making an appearance in iTunes for the iPad, iPhone and iPod touch. ”Tap Tap Glee combines the finger tapping action of the Tap Tap Revenge franchise with the beloved music from Fox’s genre-defining, award-winning television series, ‘Glee’,” claims a recent High Road press release.
“There has never been an artist-branded Tap Tap game with the breadth of music, features and social media integration that Tap Tap Glee has, and that really speaks to the unique premise of the show and its music,” said Tim O’Brien, VP of Business Development and Marketing for Disney Mobile. “This game brings together two of the most popular franchises in music to create a must-have gaming experience for all GleeKs.”
“Tap Tap Glee is the most recent example of our efforts to deliver amazing experiences to fans of our content on emerging platforms,” said Matt McMahon, VP of Mobile for Fox Digital Entertainment. “The combination of these two incredibly popular brands has produced a fantastic game and another way for ‘Glee’ fans to interact with their favourite music while they’re on the go.”
Music available for the app includes the “Glee” cast’s rendition of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’”, the show’s biggest hit with more than one million downloads to date via iTunes, and “My Cup,” from the season two finale. An additional 50 tracks from the vast library of “Glee” songs are available through In-App Purchase. Tracks range from pop to classic rock to show tunes, and new promo tracks will be released daily. eBay Mobile is the presenting launch sponsor of Tap Tap Glee, and will be promoting the eBay app for iPhone and iPod touch.
And yes my friends, hold onto your hats, I decided to give it a try.
Opening the app brings you to a brightly colored screen of choices. Aside from playing the game you can use the app to be social with your friends online, watch video clips from the TV show, enter the yearbook (which seems to be photos of the cast of the television show), or enter an area called “Gleeks vs Jocks” in which you determine your allegiance and then you can connect with other like minded gleeks or jocks through facebook connect.
The game itself reminded me a lot of Donkey Konga, Guitar Hero, and similar rhythm games with one objective: match the rhythm notes. In this instance instead of drumming the bongos or wailing on the guitar you tap, tap, tap your heart out. The game begins by giving you three free tracks to play but be aware, they are not full tracks. Almost every time i found myself on a streak, or about to prepare for a solo’s onslaught, the song would fade out and end. With multiple difficulty levels some replay value is built in as you make an attempt to reach perfection, but songs cost money. Priced at around $0.99 per track this game could add up quickly for any music or glee enthusiast. You can also earn credits in the game that can be put towards your purchase through a facebook like and other social media connects.
Features of Tap Tap Glee include:
- Three included tracks: “Don’t Stop Believin,” as well as Glee cast originals “Hell To The No” and “My Cup.”
- An additional 50 “Glee” tracks available through In-App Purchase.
- Continuous music updates: Download daily song promotions and purchase new music bundles every Tuesday.
- GleeKs vs. Jocks Facebook Wall: Connect to the GleeK vs. Jocks Facebook wall, and choose to be either a GleeK or a Jock. Click on a friend’s profile and “slushy” them by posting to their Facebook wall.
- McKinley High Yearbook: Character bios, quotes and photos from “Glee” cast members.
- Video Gallery: Exclusive video from Glee: The 3D Concert Movie
- Live Tweet Wall: See up to the second tweets for all things #Glee
The launch of Tap Tap Glee in the App Store coincides with the theatrical release of Glee: The 3D Concert Movie in theaters in August 12th, with additional content updates expected around the launch of the third season of “Glee” on Fox.
So while I myself may not be a ‘GLEEK’, this one is a must have for any enthusiast. Sharing your scores with friends, following the newest episodes, and having quick fan access to the cast bios will add continuing appeal. Tap Tap Glee is available for free from the App Store on iPad, iPhone and iPod touch or at www.itunes.com/appstore for FREE but expect to spend some money on creating a playable library.
Insanely Twisted Summer of Arcade
Originally posted BY MYASHARONA at GamerFitNation.com
Game Preview: Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet
The XBLA Summer of Arcade has kicked off to a fantastic start. With Bastion and From Dust already sitting snugly in our 360′s tomorrow’s addition of the anticipated Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet is going to be a great addition! That’s right tomorrow, August 3rd, get ready to
“[Challenge] the notion that videogames are not art.” -Xbox Press Release
The game style has been compared to that of Metroid, Castlevania, and Shadow Complex, and the animation is born from the mind of renowned artist, Michel Gagne (who is not only a fellow Sheridan alumnus and a fellow Canadian, but has worked on some of my favorite animated films of all time). The colors, the textures, the minimalist details are artistically engaging but more on that in my upcoming review.
“Blending exploration, intense shooter action, and puzzle-solving with gorgeous artwork, rich storytelling and Hollywood quality presentation, Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet draws you into an epic journey full of surprises, danger and wonder.” claims the E3 press release.
Insanely Twisted Game Features Include:
- Striking and appealing visual style by renowned artist Michel Gagné.
- Innovative and intuitive puzzle design mixed with intense action sequences.
- Unique and visually stunning creatures and environments.
- Rich worlds and captivating back stories.
- Explore the worlds of Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet with friends with multiplayer.
Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet is available Wednesday August 3rd through Xbox Live Arcade. And if you still aren’t sold then check out the official trailer and be sure to check back soon for my FULL REVIEW which will be posted at GamerFitNation.com.
Free Games: Yay or Nay? War 2 Victory
Originally posted BY MYASHARONA at Gamerfitnation.com
War 2 Victory
Based on the hit WAR2 browser game with 3,000,000 monthly active users across multiple platforms, the FREE MMO strategy game War 2 Victory now lands in the App Store. Seek honor and glory in the battlefields of WWII. Take charge of either Allied or Axis forces and build a lone outpost into a mighty war machine.
Build, Expand, and CONQUER!
War 2 Victory By LiangBangChuangYe Investment Consulting Co Ltd is available for free on your iphone but is it worth the download?
The game is available for iPhone, iPod touch and iPad. Requires iOS 3.0 or later and boasts the following features:
- Expert battle system. Rapid turn-based combat puts you in charge, allowing intricate control of over 30 historically accurate units. Crush your enemies with massed infantry, a blitzkrieg of tanks, swooping bombers, mighty battleships, or stand unconquerable behind an invincible line of fortifications.
- Detailed Resource Management. Control multiple cities, each producing a variety of resources, and manage a growing workforce. Build up your industry, feed your army, and turn your citizens into soldiers or factory workers.
- Develop new technologies to unlock powerful new units, strengthen old ones, or boost your industry.
- Play with hundreds of people across the globe from your iPhone. Form powerful alliances with fellow players to crush your opponents and wage epic wars against other alliances.
- Intuitive missions system guides you through your early development, assuring you get right into the action.
- Absolutely free to download and play, no tricks! In game “speed-ups” that allow you to progress faster are available but there is no exclusive content.
Expecting an mmo experience that would have me involved for substantial intervals I quickly came to realize that this was not the case with War 2 Victory. Instead of my usual play through War 2 Victory became my ‘wait time’ companion; meaning that whenever I was in a situation in the real world where I was required to wait for something I opened up the game. For the better part of a month I played this game in small bursts but never really felt that I was using the experience to its full potential.
Ifanzine.com posted an extensive and in depth review of the app game (here) in which the reviewer states that
“A better way of framing War 2 Victory would be to describe it as a deep construction and management simulation with a helping of territorial conquest on the side – think of it as SimCity with Sherman tanks thrown in for good measure.” –ifanzine.com
I whole heartedly agree. During my time time almost all of my attentions where given to leveling up my resources, managing soldiers, troops, politicians, as well as collecting and selling resources while upgrading my technology and structures.
There is a great level of detail in the game surrounding the management simulation and I certainly enjoyed this aspect of the game. My only foul with the system is the surprisingly long time it takes for your management to take place. If you decide to upgrade your city hall or marketplace you will find an estimated time of completion pop up in the top right of the screen. As an app game I was surely shocked the first time I saw this ETA pop up with an estimated time of 2 hours or more. For me this meant closing the app and coming back to it later to ensure it had completed to my satisfaction.
Scrolling along the bottom of the screen is the real time chat. Don’t forget that others are playing this game with you! I found it very easy to get caught up in my city/troops’ development and forget this aspect. I rarely engaged in the ‘mmo’ features of the game. And while I may not have utilized it to the fullest potential, War 2 Victory, supports its community. You can find evidence of continued game and community support with frequent improvements and even active responses via facebook fan page (http://www.facebook.com/war2victory?sk=wall).
So back to the question at hand: War 2 Victory By LiangBangChuangYe Investment Consulting Co Ltd is available for free on your iphone but is it worth the download?
If you like micro management and creation and development in your game alongside short bursts of play throughout your day, I say sure! But it may be a pass to those looking for intense world war II battles and the chance to meet players whom you will continue to game with.
Runespell: Overture Review
Originally posted BY MYASHARONA at GamerFitNation.com
How many game types can you hybrid together seamlessly to create a satisfying PC experience? The folks at Mystic Box have been working hard to bring you the answer in Runespell: Overture. Runespell: Overture is a puzzle(ish) roleplaying game combining Poker/Yahtzee mechanics with Power ups and Collectable cards.
Runespell: Overture takes you to an alternate medieval Europe. Creatively linking historical characters with Norse mythology the player takes on the role of ‘The Changeling’, the son of a monster god, in search of his nemesis. While the story and the art can be quite compelling at times, the dialogue seems odd at times during the cut scenes and battle intermissions. Easy to use controls help the combination of solitaire, yhatzee, and poker in the combat system run smoothly. While this ultra-hybrid title may not be for everyone the puzzle, rpg, and card playing combination is married nicely enough to warrant a gander.
Gameplay – 7.5/10
There is a lot going on here but it never seems overwhelming. Your linear narrative experience will have moving through the story to encounter key plot points revealed sometimes in dramatic cut scenes. The cut scenes are a series of stills and text as opposed to animated sequences. Our story is just interesting enough to propel you forward and many characters are met along the journey that are equally as interesting.
During the course of your game you will meet characters, friends and foes who have something unique to offer. Allies who travel with you will be included in your combat defense and offence and can be used just like specially earned ability cards. Ability cards will help you in battle when the poker hand dealt to you just isn’t enough.
In each battle you will have 3 turns per round. During your turn you can sometimes use your abilities cards and travelling allies or you can use your three turns to create the best poker hand by stacking your cards (including the ability to steal your opponent’s cards) or simply use attacks you may have been collecting. Each player’s shield and health points are displayed beneath the character so you always know how much more damage is required to take down a foe. The enemy progression does not feel, well, progressive and sometimes the jump from an easy enemy to a difficult one can come suddenly.
Controls 7/10 – easy to use ‘click here’ control
The controls are simple, point and click. As a laptop user I found it much more useful to get out and use the mouse than the touchpad so if you are packing Runespell: Overture as a game to travel with, keep that in mind. Your click will be your ultimate device driving you from place to place on the map, interacting with the various quest giving characters, and helping you compile the very best poker hand for use in your combat battles.
Graphics 8/10 – lots of detailed artwork with a slight graphical hiccup on my Windows7 lenovo
Being an artist myself I always enjoy a good peek into the graphical development of a game. In Runespell: Overture the artwork is very well rendered. Characters,graphic elements, and environments were given the greatest of care.
Here you can see some of the concept art. I’m not sure if the concept are was so good it went to final or if our peek at the ‘concept’ art doesn’t include the thumbnails, sketches, and doodles every aspiring concept artist likes to see but regardless Mystic Box has done a great job with these renderings.
http://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=104087
Unfortunately for some reason my laptop created some hiccups that took away from my experience in the game. With no current graphical requirements, at the beta stage, my advice would be to ensure that you check the requirements that are specified at launch to avoid the following problem:
Sound – 7/10 –appropriate sound effects and ‘epic’ style music.
The music and sound effects are well developed but be warned, loud. I lowered the computer’s levels and still found it to be a tad loud. While everything is appropriately fitting to the theme, environments, and overall schematic of the game I mainly played the game sans the music and enjoyed the sounds of the stacking cards, the achievement like sounds for creating an attack hand or using an ability card.
Key features:
1.Innovative Mythic Poker system using Poker/Yahtzee mechanics to battle your opponents
2. Unlock Power ups and special attacks available as collectable cards in the game
3. Combine your skills in short bursts of active play or long sessions of questing and battles
4. Defeat more than 30 monsters types each with a unique card set and attack style
5. Defeat enemies and make them your pets or allies
6. Unlock new battle locations through questing
7. Mix of beautiful hand painted backdrops and evocative 3d characters
8. A compelling and original story set in an alternate medieval Europe
9. Local leaderboard and achievements available (Online: Steam)
Overall
Runespell: Overture (RSO) is a Hybrid between RPG, Collectable Cards and Poker gameplay. By combining casual and core mechanics, RSO allows for short bursts of active play or long sessions of questing and battles. With a well-established and polished art style, epic music and sounds, and easy navigate quest and battle elements RSO is a fomidible addition to the genre of… well… a hybrid genre all of its own.
Runespell: Overture will be available on Steam starting July 20, 2011 at 10AM Pacific Time. The price for Runespell: Overture will be $9.99
In mainland Europe the price will be set to €8.99. In the United Kingdom players will pay £7.99.
“We hope these prices reflect the differences per currency best”, one of the producers of Mystic Box, Barry Hoffman, states.
Next to this Mystic Box will offer a further 10% discount during the first week after release. Still not sure? There will be a public demo available via Steam upon release of the game to allow potential players the chance to test the game before buying it.
MyaSharona.com 