SEVEN HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE NINTENDO DIRECT 13/02/2019

The Nintendo Switch calendar was indeed looking very quiet for 2019 and beyond, a Direct was needed for a long time! If Nintendo wanted to make the fans both happy and slightly disappointed, it was now! Before every presentation, the amount of rumours that go round would make you think that you would have to take out a second or third mortgage to get them all.

Even though we may not have too much to take on to the hybrid console this spring, the releases that have been announced promise some fun times now and to tide us over until E3 and beyond. Whether it’s the new IP, a sequel to a Wii-U classic or even a reimagining of a much beloved game, it is here!

I have for you now my personal highlights of the presentation. I will note this is not a full representation of the Nintendo, but it is my personal opinion of the releases that actually have a strong interest to me. Also, I shall say now that I am not employed by Nintendo and would really enjoy a job in the PR team for them or maybe even an official tester for the games they craft? Please?

Super Mario Maker 2

If you are gonna start a Nintendo Direct off strong, this was it! Possibly the only game I ever played on the Wii-U, Super Mario Maker was indeed a gem of a game and I loved the custom levels that many around the world had contributed. The idea you could create your own worlds and make them as easy or as difficult as you please was possibly the greatest creation for the console.

When the presentation began with this game, I couldn’t hold my excitement. Since the Nintendo Switch first came out, I really wanted a Mario Maker for my own. Instead of a port like many predicted, we are getting a full-blown sequel which will continue to challenge many creators and infuriate many gamers with near-impossible levels.

At this time, the game has been given a June release date. Expect to see this game before E3!

Tetris 99

What happens when you take the best-selling game of all time and give it the “Battle Royale” treatment…THIS! An idea that sounds so crazy, but looks so much fun. In an age where we have PUBG, Fortnite and various other shooters who think this is the best way to progress, I could never have dreamed I found a Battle Royale I could really get behind.

Don’t expect too much depth with this game, it is honestly just Tetris with 98 other people and the points you achieve are used to then attack the opponent of your choosing. I have played about 30 minutes of this so far, as it was released almost immediately after the direct, and I must say this game is simple but fantastic.

Tetris 99 is available now on the Nintendo eShop!

Boxboy + Boxgirl

Boxboy, the game that I honestly think was the inspiration to Snipperclips. The puzzle game series has always been popular with many fans and has appeared on Nintendo consoles in the past. It has previously been a more handheld experience, but it does seem like the 3DS is being left to fade away like the victims of Thanos’ finger snap in Avengers: Infinity War.

While I personally have never played this game, it does have my interest. The co-op aspects, the simple graphics and the cute aesthetic could see this become a surprise hit. Plus, Boxboy is joined by his wife/partner/sister/friend for a whole lot of fun that I will certainly have a crack at.

Boxboy + Boxgirl is due out April 26^th!

Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice

I wanted to play this game for a long time, why have I not yet played this game before? Well I have no excuse now as it will be coming to my favourite game console in the next few months. Games that tackle mental health issues have become highly acclaimed over the last few years with releases such as Celeste!

If the footage that was shown was from Nintendo Switch gameplay, we could really be in for a treat. I know this game has won a number of awards and my friends have already told me I should give it a try. Well, this is definitely going on the list!

Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice is out in the Spring!

Fire Emblem: Three Houses

Fire Emblem games were never that important to me when I was growing up. My teen years mainly consisted of Call Of Duty, Grand Theft Auto and many EA titles (before the microtransactions fiasco!). But, I was introduced to these games when the 3DS port was released for the Switch, and I am now a fan.

Is it the anime cutscenes that got me? The beautiful graphics? The battle system? I’m not sure. All I know is that I love how this title looks. The Nintendo Direct turned me from being on the fence about this title to really wanting the summer to come!

Fire Emblem: Three Houses comes out on July 26^th!

The Legend Of Zelda: Link’s Awakening

I have mentioned before that before Breath Of The Wild, I had never really been a fan of the Zelda series. Wind Waker was fun, and I could see why many people weren’t too keen on it. When I bought my Switch, The Legend Of Zelda was indeed the game I needed and the 80+ hours later show that I must have enjoyed it.

I understand the next BOTW-style game will be a while away, but this game looks like it will be fun. I know the style is a bit more basic, but I trust Nintendo to take this classic Game Boy release and create something that is perfect for those who play on the go. Also, who would love an Amiibo of Link from this game? I would

The Legend Of Zelda: Link’s Awakening comes out later in 2019!

Astral Chain

Platinum Games may have many people on the edge of their seat awaiting the release of Bayonetta 3, but they have got another game coming out before we see the sequel. Astral Chain comes from the minds behind Bayonetta (Hideki Kamiya) and Nier: Automata (Takahisa Taura). With this much talent, there is a lot of hope on this title being a success.

With any new IP, there is always a lot of questions. Just watching this trailer, I honestly can’t tell you what the hell is going on, but I really want this game. This action title will surely be the last big summer release for the Nintendo Switch and possibly the biggest debut for a new franchise on the console. Why do we have to wait for such nice things?

Astral Chain is due for release August 30^th!

If I could make a point about anything from this Direct, it was the lack of information on the supposed Metroid Prime Trilogy port or even a follow-up on Animal Crossing. Overall, this was possibly one of the strongest presentations in recent memory.

What did you think of the Nintendo Direct? Is there anything you wish had been shown on Wednesday? Let me know in the comments.

Written by Jonjo Cosgrove

Jonjo’s Best Of 2018!

2018 has come and gone! While we have massive events such as Avengers: Endgame, the return of Mr. Robot and the new core Pokemon RPG to make this year an awesome one, this is the perfect time to reflect on what I thought was the best of the past 12 months!

Which film did I most enjoy? What was the best book I read? Which show on Netflix was my go-to binge? What TV show made a massive impact to me away from the online giant? These questions and more are about to be answered in the First Annual Singing Whovian Awards For Excellence And Quality!

Best Film – Avengers: Infinity War

This was not easy! 2018 brought us such gems as Black Panther, Creed II, Mission Impossible: Fallout and Bohemian Rhapsody which I am sure will all do well when it comes to the award season in the US. But, for me, the culmination of ten years in the MCU being presented in this epic movie could not be ignored.

Beginning with Thanos taking down the Asgardian refuge ship and killing half of those on board, we see him begin his quest to wipe out half of all life as he sacrifices everything to achieve this goal. Iron Man, The Guardians Of The Galaxy and the other Avengers all come out to fight in this film which truly is bigger than any other that has come before it.

Could you get a more sympathetic yet terrifying antagonist than Thanos? Has there truly been a better film series which has managed to bring together such a huge list of characters that fans have loved over the past decade? Anthony and Joe Russo show that Marvel Studios can not only create a brilliant film, but have truly made the biggest shocker since Luke Skywalker found out his Dad was Darth Vader!

Best TV show – Better Call Saul

Well, who thought this would happen? Could it be possible that the spin-off to one of the most successful TV shows of all time may actually be just as good or maybe even better than its predecessor? The tale of Jimmy McGill took possibly its most dramatic step this year as Jimmy has to deal with the loss of his brother and try to get his licence back to practice law.

With Season Four taking the biggest time jump so far, we see Jimmy and Kim slowly grow apart as the lives they live continue to divide them as the Saul Goodman persona begins to emerge as a force to be reckoned with. Kim tries to support Jimmy the best way she can, but can she possibly save him from the man he is destined to become?

While the couple may be on the rocks, we also get to see Gustavo Fring as he begins to grow his empire with the help of the fantastic Mike as he has to deal with the operations and tie up the lose ends. Also, as the series prepares for its fifth season, will we see the show eventually come up to Breaking Bad or even fully embrace a more sequel-based setting? I would like to see the show meet a satisfying conclusion with the chance to tie up all storylines for the man we have come to know as “Slippin’ Jimmy”.

Best Netflix Film – Black Mirror: Bandersnatch

2019 may be the year we will get the new series of Black Mirror emerge on Netflix, but I can’t see many people would have expected this to emerge. A late Christmas present from the streaming giant was definitely welcome when Netflix announced that Bandersnatch was to premiere on the 28^th December…but the biggest surprise was yet to come.

When the film premiered, it was later discovered that you could choose the path that the episode was to follow. Whether it was what cereal that central character Stefan would start his day with, what cassette would be blasting from his Walkman or even how you would finish a fight scene, Charlie Brooker has given us yet another classic.

While we may be waiting till later in 2019 for a full Season Five of the hit show, I can safely say that this special will keep many people entertained for hours while they attempt to get all the endings.

Best Netflix TV Show – BoJack Horseman

Can you believe we have already had five seasons of this fantastic series? BoJack Horseman is the perfect show to blend comedy, drama, speak about everyday issues such as anxiety and depression and also involve anthropomorphic animals who inhabit the world that is so similar to our own. If you’ve never seen the show before, its main star is a Horse-Man who used to star in a sitcom which was a big hit and he now gets by each day as a semi-functioning alcoholic with more mummy issues than Norman Bates.

Will Arnett continues to shine as the troubled star who has to not only deal with his own personal demons, but he also has to get through the loss of his mother in what is possibly one of the finest episodes of TV that I have ever witnessed. The supporting cast all bring their best performances in this season, whether its Alison Brie as Diane begins to deal with her split from Mr. Peanutbutter or even Rami Malek or Stephanie Beatriz for their roles as the workforce behind BoJack’s new series called Philbert.

I honestly could not have thought anything would have beaten season four of this fine show, but Arnett and the rest of the stars are all on top form. BoJack Horseman continues to tackle themes that many other shows would never touch, yet we seem to take it in just as much with these animated creations as we would if the people were real. Bring on Season Six!

Best Playstation 4 Game – Spider-Man

The PS4 has been possibly the greatest console to come out from Sony, with many games that push the boundaries of what we would consider the standard. In the last few years we have had Bloodborne terrify the masses, The Last Of Us bring people to tears and even the latest God Of War show that it just gets better and better.

Truly, the best of all these in my opinions is Spider-Man! The 2018 game which reinvents all we know about the wall-crawler and provides possibly one of the tightest and most enjoyable gaming experiences ever. The game looks visually amazing and it handles almost as well as a certain caped crusader and his series of games set around the famous prison based in his world.

While not the most original idea brought to the console, the execution of the title character and his world is just stunning. The story is indeed a unique one to any Spider-Man canon that has come before it and I am sure there will be millions of people eagerly awaiting the sequel when it his the Playstation 5 in the future!

Best XBOX ONE Game – Dragonball FighterZ

This is not a console exclusive, its not the biggest title of the year and it may actually not have sold super well compared to others, but I really really really loved this game. Taking on a more hand-drawn style that reflects the anime has really gone in FighterZ favour to produce the most exciting figher of the year.

While it has come out on the PS4 and also amazed me on the Nintendo Switch too, it is the XBOX ONE which sees it really shine with the 4K visuals on the XBOX ONE X and just bringing back the greatest memories of watching the show. When you get such seemless gameplay and beautiful art design like this, how could you not love it?

Including some great multiplayer options and a story mode from original creator Akira Toriyama is indeed the greatest strength of this game. It takes what has come before from titles in the Budokai and Xenoverse series and really puts you into the action in a way that has never been possible before.

Best Nintendo Switch Game – Super Smash Bros Ultimate

Was there any other choice? Octopath Traveler was a deep tale with some of the best music in video game history, the Bayonetta 2 port was so much fun to play through and Pokemon: Let’s Go Pikachu was a fun nostalgic trip to Kanto and I loved throwing all my Meltan into the park. While these games scored high for me, I got my biggest joy from bashing buttons as I took either Kirby or Richter Belmont to victory against the 70+ challengers over them 100+ stages.

When this game was first announced, my only experience in the Smash realm was with the Wii edition in the late 2000’s. But with each Nintendo Direct, the excitement just kept getting higher. The idea of throwing these characters from countless franchises to see them fight it out on these wacky stages shouldn’t be so appealing, but it does work well.

Whether you play alone, with friends or with that pro online who kicks your arse every single time, you can’t help but love this game. It’s simple and complex at the same time. It is visually beautiful and straightforward to play.

Best Book – The Walking Dead Vol. 30: New World Order

I will admit, I haven’t read a lot of books that actually came out this year. The Walking Dead comic series has got a book edition every six months and never fails to succeed in terms of storytelling, intrigue and character development. For a comic that has been going for over 15 years, the concept is still as fresh as ever and the latest chapter has been indeed ambitious.

As Eugene leads the group to Ohio, the survivors are invited to a community that has many people within its walls, approximately 250,000. While the gang begin to learn about the people in Ohio, Michonne discovers that her daughter has come to this settlement and may still be alive.

Like any Walking Dead story, you find that it is the living characters that are dangerous and unpredictable. Where the story will surely only develop further in the next volume, it is good to see more characters enter the fray such as the unhinged ‘Princess’ and the Commonwealth’s governor Pamela Milton (not another Governor!!!!!). Bring on book 31!

That was my list, did you agree with any of my picks? Are you upset that I didn’t include Red Dead Redemption 2 on my list of games or that I left Venom out of the running? Let me know.

Written by Jonjo Cosgrove

Metroid Prime 4 Rebooted And The Curious Case Of The Missing Trilogy Port!

June 2017 saw an E3 announcement like no other! Nintendo told the world that a long-awaited sequel to the Metroid Prime series was indeed in production for the Switch. But then a few days ago (Friday 25^th January 2019) we got the news that would shock millions of Switch fans worldwide, Metroid Prime 4 was to get a major delay! Now, why was this? Surely the last year and a half since the announcement must have been enough time to develop a certainly pleasing entry to the franchise! Turns out that Nintendo were not happy with the progress that had been made by the unnamed studio (which many believe to be Bandai Namco) and made the difficult announcement.

While we may not know all of the facts, we have been informed by Nintendo’s Shinya Takahashi that Retro Studios will take the reins and go back to the series they helmed for the trilogy we have already enjoyed. The studio will start the game from the very beginning and seemingly scrap all assets that already exist. I should also say that Kensuke Tanabe will also be back as producer for Metroid Prime 4 to help create the best game possible.

With this news, it is safe to say that the game will possibly not return until 2021 at the very earliest, which could be a tough wait for any fan. But since this news arrived, there was been a number of sources offering some information on what comes next. Imran Khan from Game Informer has offered updates on Twitter about the studio switch, what was going wrong and also discusses THAT Metroid Prime Trilogy collection!

While Khan says that 4 was being made by multiple developers and this ultimately saw its downfall, he also mentions that the Trilogy was due to be announced in December 2018 but was pulled at the last minute. This looks like the change to Retro was part of the reason for the delay, but we can only hope that the collection will be announced in a Nintendo Direct which may be revealed on January 31^st! Why 31^st? Well I honestly think this would be the best time to open the year by discussing the successes and now give a focus to the other big titles since Prime 4 will not see a release for a long time.

So, we could have Metroid Prime Trilogy HD coming to the Nintendo Switch in the next few months, but could we also see some other Metroid titles make the cut and come to the console while we wait? The original NES game is already available to play with the subscription to the online service, maybe it would be easy enough to send the other classics our way to lessen the blow.

This could also have an impact on the release schedule as many believe that 4 was due to come out by the end of the year. With Pokémon, Luigi’s Mansion, Animal Crossing and hopefully Bayonetta 3 on the way in 2019, we may see some games get a bigger push to replace Samus’ next adventure. Personally, as long as Pokémon Generation 8 and Bayonetta 3 are great, I think I can wait for Prime 4. If that Trilogy which has not stopped being discussed is indeed ready, release it now please Nintendo and just let the people have something for now!

Thank you for checking this article out and I look forward to reviewing discussing mentioning thinking bringing any scrap of news about Metroid Prime 4 to you in the future!

Written by Jonjo Cosgrove

WHO I WANT TO SEE IN THE SUPER SMASH BROS ULTIMATE DLC!

On 1^st November 2018, we had the final (finally!) Nintendo Direct dedicated to Super Smash Bros Ultimate. Masahiro Sakurai presented the all the news that we needed before the game is released, this includes the full list of characters now revealed and the various game modes which will be present in the upcoming release.

With Ken from Street Fighter, Incineroar from Pokemon Sun and Moon and even Piranha Plant from Super Mario are all about to make the advance to battle as the final confirmed fighters for the main game. BUT…this isn’t it! The Direct also confirmed that DLC would be released for the game in five parts! Each DLC will see a new character, a new stage and various music. We have around a year of updates to come and it could be almost anyone that could make the roster of playable characters. But who is gonna come to the game?

I have thought about this over the last few weeks, having a small discussion or two with friends over who would be perfect for the new game and why they would fit in perfectly. Without any further delay, here are the five fighters who I hope will join the Ultimate line-up!

Earthworm Jim – Earthworm Jim

Let’s be honest, Super Smash Bros is mostly known for throwing almost anyone together for possibly the craziest and most fan-pleasing roster in existance. Earthworm Jim is just a superb character who could hold his own against any challenger. Where as he could use his worm body as a whip, use his suit for strength and super jumps and maybe a final Smash which involves his trusty blaster? I would just love for this character to be taking on Ken and Ryu in a good ol’ fist fight!

Lara Croft – Tomb Raider

I will be honest, this one is possibly the most unlikely to make the DLC, but I have got a good point to make. Before this series of games, would you believe Solid Snake would be interacting with Wario or that Sonic and Pikachu could share the same stage? Lara Croft is perfect in forms of agility, she could make weapons throughout the battle and how about seeing her twin pistols play a part in her final Smash? Also I want to make it clear, Lara Croft from 2013 onwards would be the character. But maybe a skin of the 1996 original.

Crash Bandicoot – Crash Bandicoot

With the release of Crash Bandicoot N-Sane Trilogy coming to the Nintendo Switch a few months ago, wouldn’t it be a great time to bring the former Playstation mascot to the battle? Sure he is mostly known for spinning around and jumping on things, but he could definitely be a force to be reckoned with if he dons the Aku Aku mask. Final Smash, Aku Aku blasting someone into space! Oh, how about throw in Tiny or Ripper Roo as well?

Chun Li – Street Fighter

If you say Street Fighter to someone, they will possibly remember Ryu and either say “Hadouken” or “For you, the day Bison graced your village was the most important day of your life. But for me, it was Tuesday”. For me, Chun Li is just the best character to come out of this franchise. We may have Ken now too in the game, but Chun Li is just a whole different experience and someone who would be so cool with some powerful kicks and a final Smash that probably involves her famous thighs causing some big damage.

Waluigi – Super Mario

FOR F**K SAKE! JUST PUT WALUIGI IN THE F**KING GAME!!!!!

Sorry about that, but number five I think is reflected in the Smash community to quite the appropriate level. I had to really think which characters could possibly work well as new fighters, but I then came to the realisation that almost any video game character could make the cut.

What do you think of this list? Do you have any particular character you would love to see in the game? Let me know in the comments.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is out on Friday 7th December!

Written by Jonjo Cosgrove

The Five Biggest Video Games Still To Come In 2018!

2018 at E3 was…well, it was E3! Some surprises, a few in depths of upcoming titles and more memes being created than ever before (Dennis at EA, poor guy!). But, amongst some of the disappointments and less than stellar reveals, it is fair to say that Sony, Microsoft and Nintendo have got some genuinely brilliant titles on the way! With the likes of God Of War, Dragonball FighterZ, Celeste and the re-release of Shadow Of The Colossus entertaining and exciting the gaming world, I want to give a spotlight to some other releases you need to be playing before Christmas!

Pokémon Let’s Go Pikachu/Eevee

November 16^th 2018 on Nintendo Switch

I start with this double hitter, the first true (don’t hate me, internet) Pokémon game to reach Nintendo’s hybrid console will be arriving this November! Unlike previous games in the core RPG series, this game will see the traditional meet the immensely popular mobile app Pokémon Go. While many may not be too happy with a change in the structure, rest assured that Trainer Battles and the Pokémon League is still in effect! Plus there is that Generation 8 RPG due in 2019, so see Let’s Go as a warm up and I am sure you will enjoy it!

Spider-Man

September 7^th 2018 on Playstation 4

Every now and again, a Spider-Man game comes along and it actually does really well. So far its Spider-Man 2, Web Of Shadows and I am sure maybe a SNES game that was good, so the hope for a great release is definitely one. Luckily enough, Insomniac Games has been developing this one for quite a while and by taking its own canon will allow it to breathe and grow on its own. With an impressive roster of characters and breath-taking visuals, Spider-Man could be the PS4 game of the year!

Forza Horizon 4

October 2^nd 2018 on XBOX ONE

Forza, a car racing franchise with a number of titles to rival Need For Speed but with arguably more high quality entries than the multi-platform game. Forza Horizon 4 has got me excited as it looks set to take place in the UK and servers will be able to take 72 players at a time! Weather will shape and modify the tracks and I admit it is one damn good reason to own an XBOX One X! It may be Microsoft’s last exclusive for 2018, but it will be a damn good one!

Fallout 76

November 14^th 2018 on XBOX ONE and Playstation 4

Return to the wastelands with this video game which is set before all the previous games in the series where your character emerges from Vault 76! Fallout 76 will be an online playable game and this time you can link up with friends to tackle all the hazards that you will face. All human characters will be actual players in what will truly be 2018’s most immersive and hopefully deepest video game!

Super Smash Bros: Ultimate

December 7^th 2018 on Nintendo Switch

Possibly the most anticipated game of the Nintendo Direct at E3 was SMASH. BROS. Returning! It was announced that not only would this game feature the largest roster so far, but EVERY SINGLE CHARACTER that has ever appeared in the franchise would be playable in Ultimate. The gameplay looks smooth, each character appears well balanced and it will definitely be the early Christmas present for all users of the Switch!

What 2018 video game are you most looking forward to? Message below and let me know.

Written by Jonjo Cosgrove

Pokken Tournament DLC: WHAT THE HELL?

The Nintendo Switch has had a great first year! And with that, the announcements and promises of great and varied content continues!

On Thursday 11^th January 2018, Nintendo showcased a selection of games and updates that would be hitting the Switch console in the next few months. With the announcement of a Dark Souls remaster, Mario Tennis Aces and also a release date for Kirby Star Allies, our excitement for the console was again brought back up. But, then there was some DLC announcements that were a bit questionable to say the least. Some people were upset about the Super Mario Odyssey update basically being a little 2 player mode, but it was the Pokken one that really got me.

The Nintendo Switch adaptation came out in September with a decent roster of Pokemon to choose from (21 to be exact, well 19 and 2 alternative versions). But Nintendo announced that a two-part DLC pack would come with each containing a new Pokémon fighter, two new supports and various costume changes for your character. For two new fighters, how much would you expect to pay? £3.99? £4.99? Well, you are way off!

£13.49 is the price! For two additional Pokemon to battle with, four for support and a few different skins for your avatar!! Isn’t this a bit pricey?!?! Well, you are not alone.

Nintendo have proven that they can do a DLC pack right in the past, Breath Of The Wild had a rather fun pack which gave you two new game modes which provided hours of entertainment. When I see what Pokken Tournament is offering for the price, I just don’t feel that excitement over the DLC. Don’t get me wrong, Blastoise is a fantastic addition to the roster, but who really wants Aegislash? NOT ME!

Sorry about the caps, but there are over 700 Pokemon to choose from! Maybe give us Onyx, Hitmonlee/Hitmonchan, Gallade, Garchomp, Genesect, Haxorus, Heracross, Tyranitar and just so many others that should be given the opportunity. I am happy for a few new Pokemon to boost the list of fighters, but please give us some that we would love to battle with. I know we have that new game on the horizon (at some point in the near future) so please do us all a favour and give us some combatants that we would love to control.

What are your thoughts? Will you be paying out the £13.49 price tag for the DLC?

Written by Jonjo Cosgrove

10 Games We Need For The Nintendo Switch

Do you love your Nintendo Switch? I do. The console has become part of the family and I love to get stuck into one of its many great titles. While the Switch is great, there is a need for some more AAA games to build the library. Yes, the console is still new in its life, but here is a list of the video games that I would like to see…

Pokemon (probably based on Pokemon Red, Blue and Yellow)

Yes, they have announced a “Pokemon RPG” is on the way, but that’s all we know. A game that is a partial remake on the Game Boy classic could be a sure-fire hit! I know it is pretty much the same thoughts of a lot of people, but honestly it’s what we would be happy with. Maybe with elements of Final Fantasy would make this a big hit. Let’s see what the 2018(?) release will look like.

Super Smash Bros

Another obvious one, but not a confirmed one…yet! Super Smash Bros is indeed one of the most enjoyable multiplayer franchises in the world and the Switch is primed for a new edition. Where you can get people to play either through one Switch or multiple consoles, this could be the game you need for your next house party (if it gets made).

Silent Hill

OK, this one is really out there, but hear me out. The Nintendo Switch needs a good horror game, something that could make good use of the unique controls from the console. Silent Hill is due a new entry and hopefully bring us something new and exciting for us patient gamers. Silent Hills P.T. showed that the franchise could still deliver, so let’s wait and see.

Warioware

I love these games. The version on Nintendo DS was one of the best games the system had to offer and could be perfect for the Switch. 1-2 Switch seemed like a substitute for the game we would want and I hope that this means Warioware will soon come to fruition and give us the fun and thoughtful software we love. Come on Nintendo, WE WANT THIS!

Star Wars RPG or Action/Adventure

Star Wars is a massive franchise and many games have stemmed from the series. Whether these be action games, tactical playthroughs and racing titles, there has been a great range. As of yet, there are no announced Star Wars games for the system. But what could we have? I would like to see the controls used for lightsaber battles and maybe a HD remake of Knights Of The Old Republic? Or at worst, maybe a game to fill the blanks in the new trilogy. It’s a dream, but I know it can be done!

Bayonetta

Bayonetta honestly was a pleasant surprise when it was released in 2009. Platinum Games had a massive hit with gameplay similar to Devil May Cry and an engaging storyline with riveting characters. Maybe a new release for the Switch would be worth the investment. Maybe not a Bayonetta 3, but something around the timeline of the first two which could be fun and joyful.

Madworld

This Wii game was brilliant, it had a fantastic art-style and some unique controls. Another Platinum Games hit, this made you feel like you were watching an American Sports event (being bloody murder) and the visuals looked striking with the limited colour pallet. A new edition could see a continuation to the story of the protagonist Jack and see him in another “DeathWatch” situation. All I know is that I would be hooked for hours.

Donkey Kong

At E3 we had announcements for Kirby, Yoshi and even Mario and Rabbids (still feeling weird over this one), but where was Donkey Kong? The Nintendo ape is someone who does get a lot of people interested and maybe a revival of the Donkey Kong Country series? It would certainly be fun to play it in new HD graphics. We need the main guy under our control once again as he protects his bananas!

Ninja Gaiden or Afro Samurai

Ok, this is a slight cheat putting these too together, but hear me out! Ninja Gaiden could translate well and has proved on many platforms to be a worthy slasher game. But if I could choose, it would be for the Switch to have a crack at giving Afro Samurai a new lease of life. After the disaster that was Revenge Of Kuma, many fans of this series have now got a sour taste in their mouths. It is unlikely another film or TV series will come, so a video game continuation just seems obvious. Get Samuel L. Jackson back and you are set!

Metal Gear Rising 2

A game that could really benefit from the movement controls, a sequel to Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance is needed so much! The first one was a worthy spin-off to the long-running franchise and showed that Raiden could hold his own as a video game hero. The game could carry on the story with another personal vendetta and possibly a return for Solid Snake? It is unlikely, but this could be the title that would bring some action to the Switch console!

WHAT GAMES WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE? I should also mention to see the Batman Arkham games would be good too!

DO YOU AGREE WITH THIS LIST?

Let me know in the comments and like our Facebook page for future articles.

Written by Jonjo Cosgrove

Pokémon GO: Review and Impact

Available on Apple Store and Android Store for Free!

Pokémon has remained a worldwide phenomenon for many years. The original games still stand as some of the most popular video games of all time! Red, Blue, Yellow, Gold, Silver, Ruby, Sapphire, Diamond, Pearl, Black (and 2), White (and 2), X, Y and the upcoming Sun and Moon (Pokémon Snap is also a fun game, though nonsense to a degree). One element that has been missing from the game is having a real-world feel to the challenge of becoming a Pokemon master! But now you can, it’s time to go outside and discover the world from a new perspective.

First off, make sure your phone is fully charged and that you have a good amount of data to spare. You start the game getting the introduction you may remember from the Game Boy Pokemon games, and from that you get to pick one of the starter pokemon. Bulbasaur, Charmander and Squirtle then appear (there is a way to get a Pikachu, just walk away from the starters that are offered!). From that point, you need to visit the “Poke Stops” to gain more Poke Balls and look to catch all 151 Pokemon on offer! Once you are on your way, you can build the power of your Pokemon and prepare for them to face off at the Gym’s which will prove a real challenge. To get to these stops, gyms and to find the pokemon in general, you have to go out and explore the world around you.

It is almost thrilling when you come across a Rattata or a Pidgey (not when they are the only buggers you find), and also there is a lot of fun about catching pokemon that seemingly appear in the real world. Training pokemon is a bit different, not battling with your held pokemon to catch new ones is strange, but I am sure the gym battles will make it worthwhile when you pick your team. As you may have guessed, I am yet to take on a gym (you need to be at least level 5, which I only just achieved). I have seen some people in the battles and it looks rather fun. Also, another fun thing is you can give your pokemon nicknames like you can in the normal games.

If there were any problems I could raise, the app can be unreliable at times. It can sometimes take multiple attempts to sign into your profile, and servers seem to take a break now and again. Also, the glitches are a pain! The Poke Balls seem to really a 1 in 5 chance of just freezing the game when you catch a pokemon. Though a few problems exist, the game is still in its early days. There is so much potential for this game, and some expansions such as trading/battling friends and adding more pokemon to the list will indeed make it all the better! For now, go and enjoy the fresh outdoors, have your phone ready and get catching. Finally, please watch where you are walking (don’t end up walking into a pond or into the changing room of a certain lingerie outfitter!)

Final Rating (for now): 7.5/10

Written by Jonjo Cosgrove

INJUSTICE 2. What I Want To See!

Who would have thought a game based around DC comics and using the game engine from the latest Mortal Kombat series would prove such a hit? But it did in both the look and the gameplay. It was fun and really had you hooked all the way through the story mode and repeatedly going through the arcade segments to master each superhero and villain. The personal highlights I got from this game was how well each character was represented and the special moves given to each was well made and faithful to their traits. Also, who expected them to actually give a reason to how Green Lantern and Green Arrow could fight each other on equal grounds? But anyway, we have Injustice 2 on the way next year. With a cool looking trailer and hints to some new and returning characters, here are the five things I want to see in the next game…

1. Don’t be afraid to extend the roster

There was a great cast of characters in the first game, though I am sure many fans would like a further expansion of the DC characters you can pick from. We already know Supergirl, Atrocitus and Gorilla Grodd will be in the new game with returning characters Batman, Superman, Aquaman and The Flash. After the successes of the DC TV shows, there is a lot of new characters who deserve a spot on the game. I reckon Black Canary, Constantine, Red Arrow, Firestorm and more would work well as some new heroes to feature. On the villain side, we need Captain Cold, Zoom, Riddler, Ra’s Al Ghul, Livewire, Clayface and maybe Brainiac as the main enemy? Why not.

2. Keep them equal

The big selling point in the fights was that each character could handle their own with any other and still stay unique. Before 2013’s Injustice: Gods Among Us, I would have thought a game like this could not exist. Though I think the pills will not be a factor in this game, and that may not be a bad idea. In the trailer, it looks like we get to see some “upgrades” for the heroes to see them capable of going head to head on a level playing field again. Will that work into the story? This is where we get to the next point…

3. Take inspiration from a certain 2016 film

Before you say it, I am not talking about Batman v Superman. If you have watched Captain America: Civil War, you will see its biggest talking point was the big battle between Team Cap and Team Iron Man. Maybe a similar story seeing the two sides form in the one universe (I think we could avoid multiverse for this game) and it would be fun to see two sides form over some crisis. I wouldn’t ask for a remake of what I saw on screen, but there are some elements that could be borrowed. Maybe it’s a way to deal with the defeat of a villain like Joker or Lex Luthor and then them fighting each other leaves earth vulnerable to an attack. From the information I have read, this looks very unlikely and seems to be a more direct continuation of the first. But fingers crossed the links will be there.

4. Keep the same actors/actresses

Another good point from the first Injustice game was the voice acting. If you have Kevin Conroy voicing Batman, you have already sold it to me. There was also Carl Lumbly reprising his role as Martian Manhunter from the Justice League cartoon, Phil LaMarr becoming Green Lantern again and the amazing Tara Strong living her role as Harley Quinn. If we could have the same cast again, it would not be a disappointment. To have consistency within the games, it would be nice to get that same feeling back from the first title. The only change in cast would be for me The Joker, no offence to the guy who took it on, but I think Mark Hamill or Troy Baker needs to re-take the part.

5. Longer story mode

In Mortal Kombat and Injustice: Gods Among Us, the story was always strong and enjoyable. The only problem was that story mode could be completed in about 5 hours. I know this would not be the end of my time playing the game, but it would be great to expand the story some more and get about 8-10 hours. If we learnt anything from the first game, the story shot past with great speed and indeed kept you hooked. I hope the next instalment can keep the same momentum but give a longer experience without just padding it out.

Injustice 2 will be released on PS4 and XBOX ONE in 2017.

Written by Jonjo Cosgrove

Star Wars: Battlefront. PS4 Review

Also available on PC and XBOX ONE

Star Wars fever is in overdrive now, and with the impending release of The Force Awakens, we are set to get the first taster of the sequel trilogy with this new game. Being more a natural progression of the old games rather than a sequel or remake, Battlefront establishes itself as a seriously fun and tough shooter game. Though there is not any real storyline or “campaign” mode to play, the game is packed with many different aspects of gameplay to dive into. Being set within the original trilogy, we see the breath-taking battle scenes played out in front of us. Gameplay is very much the same as remembered, two teams (the Rebels and the Empire) facing against each other in combat. (At least you are better aiming as a Stormtrooper in the game than they are in the films, though the ones in The Force Awakens look like they will be dangerous!).

Blast is effectively Team Deathmatch, and is the best chance to really get to see painstaking work which has been done to recreate the worlds we love and battle through them while admiring the work that has been done in the graphics department. Hero Hunt is very much given in the title, you hunt the hero (Luke, Leia or Han) and if you defeat them, you then become the hero and the whole team then comes after you. Fighter Squadron then really takes the game to a different level as you get to pilot a ship (Tie Fighters are available) and it is fun to do an all-out assault in the air and manoeuvre like a true pilot. Many of the other levels are of a Deathmatch style with objectives such as dominating the zones, collecting supplies that are dropped and also there are droids (and they are the ones you are looking for). My favourite though is Heroes VS Villains; the best opportunity to see the best of good and evil go up against each other and the result is rather spectacular. Seeing Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader fighting in a spectacular lightsabre battle in the middle of a battlefield is beyond explanation.

There is a sad feeling that a campaign mode was dropped because maybe they couldn’t get it to work. I feel there is a missed opportunity not getting to progress through the saga in a linear fashion. That being said, this is truly one of the most fun and detailed games ever from the Star Wars universe. The action is spot on throughout, the controls are really easy to pick up and exploring the various game modes will certainly keep you occupied for a great amount of time. Electronic Arts is indeed the perfect partner for bringing Star Wars back to your home console, and DICE definitely make good use of their history with the Battlefront series. The only thing I haven’t tried is the Battle Of Jakku maps (as they won’t be out till December) which will be almost a prequel to the new movie, but I can honestly say this game is exceptional and fun. The gameplay stays solid throughout and no visible bugs have cropped up in the time I have been playing it. Well worth having one of the top consoles for this game alone, fans will be delighted and Call Of Duty and Battlefield fans now have something fresh to sink their teeth into.

Final rating: 9/10

Written by Jonjo Cosgrove