Friday, March 30, 2012

An iPad case showdown | Gear Review


So the new iPad has been out for two weeks now and in that time we have taken a few available cases for a spin.  It is in this very post we will review the official iPad Smart Cover from Apple and two third-party cases from iFrogz and Casemate.

First up is Apple's very own take on the product, with their iPad Smart Cover. Little needs to be said here, as it's the same as the smart cover for the iPad 2. In fact, a neat factoid, Apple has said all cases made for the iPad 2 will "fit" the new iPad.
Available in a variety of colors spanning two material types. The lesser cost polyurethane is available in dark or light gray, green, pink, and blue. Leather is an option for about double the cost in cream, tan, black, dark blue, and red color options  I chose the manly blue polyurethane thank you!

Read the rest of our story after the break

Thursday, March 29, 2012

The Witcher 2: Enhanced Edition goes gold!

We were just informed that the soon to be release and highly anticipated (by me) RPG, The Witcher 2, has gone gold. What this means is no more delays and we have a release date of April 17th for the Xbox 360. There is a plethora of new content for this console release but I will not get into that in writing as the development team has put together a stunning video showing off what to expect which can be seen below.

Guerrilla Mode details explained in video


Much like Halo's Fire Fight and Gears' Horde mode, Ubisoft has just released details to their online coop mode that will apear in Ghost Recon Future Soldier. I have listed the features to the game mode below, but watching the video shows a lot more of what is to be expected in this four player, waves of hordes, cooperative gameplay.

  • You and your fellow Ghosts will face waves of enemies and utilize real-life techniques inspired by U.S Army counter-insurgency experts
  • Enter, capture and secure a designated area, then prepare for up to 50 waves of enemies with increasing difficulty
  • Compete against friends in online leaderboards
  • Play with up to 3 other friends online, or play on the same console and TV with the 2 player split screen mode

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

New Assassin's Creed 3 video and screenshot emerge


So it seems Ubisoft is not keeping mum on the details to their follow up to Assassin's Creed 2 and the teaser and weapons video along with screenshots and write up in game informer are proof of this. I have included the weapons video above and I can't wait to use the tomahawk. Also, check out the screenshot, this game is going to be great, mainly due to the setting, it is a part of America's history, but this time including an assassin.

Monday, March 26, 2012

Mashbuttons crosses two great fighting franchises in this review

It seems only yesteryear when fighting games, nevertheless good fighters were few and far between and nowadays it seems to be that the next big blockbuster fighter of the generation is being released multiple times a year from the same developers. This time around, we have been provided with a copy of Street Fighter X Tekken from Capcom to review, but before we get to that, let's lay out some of the features of this crossover fighter. This is still a 2D fighter that carries over the appearance and engine of Street Fighter IV, but this time around we get a 2 vs. 2 tag team fighting game. Gameplay controls use either the traditional Street Fighter 6 button or the 4 button Tekken layout. So, here comes the new challenger, time to see how it holds up.

Tekken has never been on my radar as a fan of the fighting genre, but crossover fighters have always piqued my interest. What made this an easy transition for me was the different button configurations, as a fan of Street Fighter it was fairly simple to pick a new main, I try to have one from each side, and learn their controls with the layout I am most comfortable with. What I particularly liked was the new tag team fighting style, if you don’t tag in your other character before your life bar runs out then the round is over, so you have to keep a close eye on your life bar and choose your teammate wisely. I also preferred this crossover to the recent Marvel vs. Capcom, as it is less hectic and more technical, much like Street Fighter IV is. Just like Mortal Kombat for the PS3, the PS3 version of this title also includes Cole MacGrath from InFamous, Mega Man, Pac-Man, and Sony feline video game personalities Toro & Kuro. None of the exclusives fit my preferred fighting style but it is nice to have a reason to choose one console version over the other.
At the same time, it also seems like Capcom was trying to get in as many features as possible, with the inclusion of the gem system, scramble mode, and Pandora mode. Though it is nice to have more to do than some missions, arcade, and online, but there comes a point when it just seems like filler. The gem system is something that I thought the game could do without as you can customize buffs in the way of gems, much like heroes and heralds in Marvel vs Capcom, it adds depth but really doesn’t change much and can make online matches incredibly one sided. I had no problem finding matches online, but due to people mapping their buttons to spam combos or exploiting single moves and spamming those made matches downright painful at times, much like that encountered in previous fighters. Load times, what happened with this game, I don’t recall Street Fighter IV or any recent fighter for that matter having load times as long as this, the first couple matches I had both on and offline, I thought my PS3 had frozen waiting for the match to start.
I had a great time with Street Fighter x Tekken, and it was a great way to introduce me to the Tekken universe and even prepare me and other newcomers for Tekken x Street Fighter.  This game was much more forgiving for me to get into, over the other recent crossover Ultimate Marvel vs Capcom 3. Though there were issues that stood out to me, mainly the load times, can we get a patch please? There were redeeming factors like the tag team gameplay and large roster of characters new, old, and exclusive, but why was Blanka not in the initial roster? Those hesitant to jump in and be an early adopter of this title can wait a few months for the Ultimate Street Fighter x Tekken Arcade Edition and those are typically announce just shortly after DLC has been released and offered at a forty dollar price point.

MashButtons channels Ryu Hayabusa in latest review


It has been almost 4 years since since Ninja Gaiden II and Team Ninja has decided to provide us with a review copy of their latest action title, Ninja Gaiden 3. The Ninja Gaiden series has been around since the eighties and a sad but true fact is that I can recall playing the arcade original around the time of its release. In that time, there have been numerous changes with next generation consoles in which some of the most memorable changes have come from Tecmo Koei developer, Team Ninja. This time around, the team is being led by Yosuke Hayabusa rather than their previous leader, Tomonobu Itagaki, but it seems that this new leader came to the table with some game changers. In this entry, players will still take on the role of Ryu Hayabusa but now see the world through his eyes and see what drives him while trying to determine the goals and motivations of a mysterious masked man who has changed Hayabusa with mysterious powers. On the topic of change, for the first time in the series, multiplayer gameplay makes an appearance in the forms of competitive and coop gameplay.  Sorry, for rambling, let's get this started.

I have played most if not all of the Ninja Gaiden titles, liked most of them, and completed a few, so I am pretty sure what to expect with Team Ninja's creations, with exception to Other M. What they offer is a fast paced and visceral action game that is not forgiving nor skimps on big, over the top boss battles. This one fires on most of those cylinders as the gameplay is fast, and you will be mashing dodge and quick attacks quite often against the swarms of enemies throw your way on to each boss. Gore, well you can always count on this team to fulfill your ninja bloodlust while also getting the pleasure to see strong finishes in slow motion. What I felt was a pretty big gamble would be the online modes added in this game, and though it does feel a bit basic it also may have been my favorite part of my time spent reviewing this title. The reason being is that you have to try and outninja your opponent by use of your bow or blades from a distance or by hacking the stuffing out of them up close, hoping your strike will be the finishing blow. This online system does allow you to gain experience to achieve higher levels and unlock items to fully personalize your ninja. The ninja trails also had me coming back for more.

Now I also think that after playing through the story it did not feel like a Ninja Gaiden title as it felt easier to play through than its predecessors, but repeat customers come for the difficulty of Team Ninja's definition of "normal", so if multiplayer was going to be a first, then adding a newcomer or easy difficulty to the game would be fitting. Next off, the gameplay is linear, and does not have anything in the way of exploration. Once I realized that, it felt much more like an arcade game, which it does very well, I just had to spend the first two levels bouncing of walls hoping to find a little secret. Lastly, I am going to have to say would be variety, as there are only a few enemy types, and even fewer weapons. Don't fret though as it seems these issues have been addressed with continuing in the fashion of big boss fights and soon to be released weapons as DLC.

Did I like Ninja Gaiden 3? Yes, I thought it was fun, both the single player and the online game modes. This was also not what I was expecting after playing the first two, but once I realized they were changing things up, I really got to enjoying it. The announcement of DLC has me hoping for long term support and a strong community because this was the last game I thought I would fall for the online gameplay.

Friday, March 23, 2012

Motorized Patriots, Handymen, and Boys of Silence mean only one thing...Infinite



We have gotten a ton of information regarding the upcoming Bioshock Infinite, first the the heavy hitters; motorized patriots, handymen and now the boys of silence. What have we got to say about all this? Nothing that the below videos can't say for themselves with the exception of why oh why do we have to wait all the way until October to get our hands on this?

Motorized Patriot: http://youtu.be/SkqcLIYWj5w

Handyman: http://youtu.be/0eDgjiy8JRc

Thursday, March 22, 2012

MashButtons becomes an ancient Inkdemon in latest Vita review

This time around, we got the opportunity to review XSEED's latest title, Sumioni: Demon Arts, which might I add is a lot of fun to say. In Sumioni, you take on the role of Agura, not Asura, an ancient Inkdemon, where you will be hacking and slashing, both figuratively and literally through levels. You utilize the front touch screen and multiple brushes to create platforms, wipe out enemy projectiles, and create elemental attacks to make your way through a number of quick levels and depending on how you rank in each level will determine the course of the game and the ending you are rewarded with. Now, onto the review of this download only, small in size (300 MB) action platformer.

I have to start by saying I love the art style in Sumioni, in which I can only assume is how the title of the game came about, as the classical Japanese art style used is called "sumi-e", which also reminded me of Okami, another title with a great art style but was also enjoyable. I came for the art and stayed for the damn 3 star rating system that gets me every time. Also, the performance in level completion rewards you with one of multiple endings and additional levels. I was apprehensive at first about controls consisting of both touch screens and controller in a fast paced action title, but one playthrough in you grasp a technique that works and improves the story through skill. I did like that you have the opportunity to summon companions for when the obscure "bosses" have the upper hand.

However at times, it seems like what this title has in potential is also what holds it back at times. I felt the developers didn't know who they were targeting, the action platformer fans or casual gamers, as the levels can be completed in a matter of minutes and took me a half hour to complete my first playthrough. Though it is very short, it immediately had me playing again and again, sometimes gathering more health and ink or uncharted levels for a better ending. Also, where this title excels in art style, it also lacks in variety of enemies, moves, and companions.

So where do I stand on this? Easy, it would be less enjoyable at full price and this could be why it is a download only title with a forgiving price of $19.99. It is also the type of game you can play when limited on time with the short levels. I just always want more variety with each time I play, but that hasn't stopped me from putting it down.

SkinIt Custom Decal Review


Mashbuttons just returned from a week long cruise vacation to Cabo San Lucas and Puerta Vallarta, and upon arriving at home, are greeted with a custom ordered iPad decal from the good folks over at Skinit.com.

If you have a moment, go ahead and check 'em out.  Skinit.com offers a tremendous variety of design choices to choose from and devices they support.  Skinit is basically a large sticker/skin made out of a high-quality vinyl that not only gives a little personalization to your device, but offers a slight level of protection from scratches, etc.  There are a number of competitors out there, so what sets Skinit apart is their quality of prints (very high mind you), the personalization options (a ton of designs from simple patterns to a whole lot of licensed material) and how many devices they support.  Skinit supports everything from iPods to external hard drives, to all of the tablets.  You just find me a device they don't support!



Prices will range based on the device you choose, The first iPhone is $14.95 - the current generation of iPhones are only $14.99.  iPad skins round out at about $29.99.

Applying the decal is pretty simply.  The only issue I found was the label was shipped in a round container (like a poster roll) which makes the sticker hard to work with initially.  I just laid it flat with some heavy books for about 30 minutes, which made it easier to apply.  The adhesive back is sticky, but not too sticky to remove, and so you can adjust the position, as these are cut to exact specifications of your device.  Arrange, apply and smooth out any air bubbles and in no time, you'll have a nice vinyl cover.  Adding this does give you a little more grip when holding your iPad out of a case, so that's always a nice feature.

Would make a great gift for those who want to make all of their devices stand out from a crowd.  Highly Recommended!

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Far Cry 3 gets it's first gameplay trailer


And it is nice! We all saw the teaser trailer and much like the first time I saw the trailer for the second title, it immediately went on my wish list. Now after seeing the gameplay trailer for this title, I want to get Dr. Earnhardt's number, because, well, you will see. Don't say I didn't warn you.

DiRT leaves the track for the arena


We have received the DiRT Showdown Massive Damage trailer and as a huge fan of the series, I am not sure that this is the direction I would like the franchise to take. In the trailer, new game modes, such as Massive Knockdown, Rampage, and Knockout are highlighted and though all look like fun, I just hope there is still a good amount of white knuckle racing included.

Mortal Kombat for the Vita shows off game modes


I tried to come up with a witty title, but with this video, it really needs nothing more. There are so many game modes shown in this that will make casual game developers quiver in fear. Aside for having an extremely solid fighting platform, this video shows off what could possibly make me forget about Ultimate Marvel vs Capcom 3.

Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Konami starts their month of horror with Downpour


So I may be a week late to the party this bit of news but forgive me, I was on a boat! Lonely Island aside. Konami has begun their month of horror with the next installment to the Silent Hill franchise with Downpour for both the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.  In this game you will take on the role of Murphy Pendleton, a convict being transferred to another prison when the transport is hijacked and Murphy wanders into the town of Silent Hill. This is also the first time that the series has used the Unreal 3 engine, hello frightful, HD, play the game with the light on awesomeness. Downpour is currently available for purchase.
Next on Konami’s horror filled month is Silent Hill HD, where us PlayStation 3 owners get the chance to relive the fan favorites, Silent Hill 2 and 3, now in HD. Closing out the horror filled month, looks to be Silent Hill Book of Memories for the PS Vita, yes please!

Monday, March 5, 2012

Feast your eyes on the Assassin's Creed III trailer


It is no big surprise to some of us after seeing a number of rumors that the next installment to the Assassin's Creed franchise will take us to the American Revelutionary War and from the looks of the trailer, trees will be an intrigal part of navigation and epic kills. Not only does the press release introduce a new character but boasts that this title PROMISES to be the biggest and most ambitious title in the company's history. The new hero is Ratohnhaké:ton, of Native American and English heritage, that has adopted the name of Connor. Keep an eye out for the next Game Informer magazine as it will be the cover feature for the month.

Pre-Order DarkSiders II, get Limited Edition free


THq has just let us know that if you pre order their follow up to the blockbuster Darsiders title, you will automatically receive the limited edition for free. Included in the Limited Edition is retail title with a code to download Argul's Tomb, the first single player DLC once it becomes available. Not to be confused with the Collector's Edition, which includes the Limited Edition of Darksiders II, life sized replica Death Mask with stand, unique armor and weapon, digital copy of soundtrack, and a hard cover art book. Darksiders II will be available on June 26th for both consoles and PC.

Ghost Recon video shows off it's Recon technology


Ubisoft has released another video showing off not only the beauty behind the upcoming title, Future Soldier, but also a little bit of what we can expect. In what is I am sure more to come regarding the skills available in this shooter, we see some of the abilities and tools to get the upper hand on the opposition without getting seen by using UAV(drones) and futuristic camouflage.

Thursday, March 1, 2012

The AR.Drone 2.0 gets some great new features

We had the pleasure to spend some time with the AR.Drone 2.0 at CES and though it seemed much improved from its predecessor, the fine folks at Parrot were not content and threw in some additional features post CES.

·Flip features: Through a quick double-tap of the right control, pilots can send the AR.Drone 2.0 upward into a barrel-roll while in flight

·USB port: Pilots now have the option not only to save streamed video to their control device, but also to a new USB port located near the battery to easily retrieve flight footage and photos

While the USB port will prove useful for creeping...I mean great aerial coverage, the latter is what I am looking to check out to blow my fellow RC enthusiasts minds, as they were already pretty impressed at what the mobile controlled device is capable of.

Konami tells us of new title AND remake coming soon


Konami and Zone of Ender fans alike will be happy with this news as there is a new title to be released next week in which we have posted the trailer for above. This new title is Blades of time, in which you will play a treasure hunter in the fantasy realm, Dragonland, in which she has the ability to rewind time. My first thought is Tomb Raider's and Prince of Persia's love child.
The next bit of news is a big, big deal to me. Zone of the Enders is getting an HD collection. You get two classic and great titles redone in one high definition bundle. Though I am not typically a fan of HD remakes, this is up there in terms of games on my wishlist as much time was spent on my PS2 playing these titles.