January 2013
Paper Mario: Sticker Star Review
A couple of months ago, Nintendo and Intelligent Systems had released the 4th addition to the mini Paper Mario series, Paper Mario: Sticker Star. There have been a lot of mixed feelings about the title and many wonder if it lives up to its expectations. Well, let's take this time to examine it, shall we?
The story begins in a town called Decalburg, where everyone including Princess Peach and Mario have gathered to celebrate the Sticker Fest, a tradition held in honor of the fabled, Sticker Star, upon which everyone hopes to have their wishes granted. Bowser shows up in the middle of the festivation in his attempt of once again capturing the beloved Princess Peach, and perhaps to steal the Sticker Star as well. When Bowser touches the Sticker Star, however, it shatters into pieces along with six crowns known as Royal Stickers, one of which falls into Bowser's possession. So now, it's up to Mario to not only just save the Princess (again), but to restore the Sticker Star and to retrieve the Royal Stickers. Accompanying him, is a crown shaped sticker name Kersti. Consider her as the Navi of Paper Mario: SS, only with a bit more of an attitude.
The gameplay itself is similar to that of the first two Paper Mario's. A turn-based RPG with some platforming elements thrown in. This time, there is a unique twist thrown in. All of Mario's actions in battles, including jumping and using his hammer, are now done with the use of stickers. Each sticker can only be used once though, you will have to think more strategically on what sticker to use to defeat your foes. You can also only use one sticker at a time, but thankfully, in battle there is an option you can use called Battle Spin, you attempt at matching three symbols up in a row which can allow you to use up to three stickers. Collecting stickers can get pretty monotonous at times, but fortunately, the game gives you plenty as you progress. You can find hidden inside blocks, from enemies, and there's even stickers placed on the walls. You can even buy and sell stickers at stores conveniently placed in several locations. In fact, the game also has a special Sticker Museum, which prompts you to go out and find every sticker known in existence to be put on display.
Something else that you will find hidden throughout the game along with stickers are special real world items referred to as "things". These "things", when collected, can be converted in stickers and can be used in battle to cause extra damage in battle. And after you have used the stickers of things in battle, you can be able to buy them back so that they can be used again and again. In fact, part of the problem solving that you will have to do throughout the game is using the things that you collect in order to progress. This can be done using a process called "paperizing". This is a special ability that Kersti has that allows you to interact with the environment, placing and peeling off stickers and objects.
One thing that may shy people away from this game is the immense amounts of problem solving and the lack of hints. There are many points throughout the game where you are forced to complete a certain puzzle or a path, and often times, due to lack of clear indication, you will find yourself having to backtrack through previous levels. Sure, backtracking is not necessarily a bad thing, but when you're given a situation and the solution is not clear to you, it can be slightly annoying. Another thing that people have noticed is the fact that you don't actually level up in the game. This makes most of the battles you face for the most part, completely useless, unless you're wanting to collect more coins. The only thing you can really upgrade is your health through special "HP-up hearts" hidden throughout the game, but that's about it.
One thing the game does emphasize heavily on is the whole "made of paper" aesthetics. From certain characters being folded and crumbled up, to the scenery being made completely out of cardboard along with the coins and hearts you collect; it really does feel like you're playing a "Paper" Mario game (no pun intended)! Also, the music is absolutely phenomenal. The way it sounds adds a unique charm to the game that I didn't think would have been possible. And although the game lacks any new unique characters or partners, it makes up for by having the special witty humor you've come to know and love from Paper Mario.
Paper Mario: Sticker Star is a delightful and charming addition to the series. While it may not be quite the game everyone had hoped for, it makes up for it by bringing back certain elements from previous Paper Mario titles with a unique twist. The complicated problem solving and lack of leveling up may seem like a drawback, but if you're willing to look past them, it becomes a really enjoyable experience. If I were to give this game a rating, it would be an 8 out of 10. One thing's for sure, Mario sure knows how to "stick" it to the bad guys! (Again, no pun intended)
The story begins in a town called Decalburg, where everyone including Princess Peach and Mario have gathered to celebrate the Sticker Fest, a tradition held in honor of the fabled, Sticker Star, upon which everyone hopes to have their wishes granted. Bowser shows up in the middle of the festivation in his attempt of once again capturing the beloved Princess Peach, and perhaps to steal the Sticker Star as well. When Bowser touches the Sticker Star, however, it shatters into pieces along with six crowns known as Royal Stickers, one of which falls into Bowser's possession. So now, it's up to Mario to not only just save the Princess (again), but to restore the Sticker Star and to retrieve the Royal Stickers. Accompanying him, is a crown shaped sticker name Kersti. Consider her as the Navi of Paper Mario: SS, only with a bit more of an attitude.
The gameplay itself is similar to that of the first two Paper Mario's. A turn-based RPG with some platforming elements thrown in. This time, there is a unique twist thrown in. All of Mario's actions in battles, including jumping and using his hammer, are now done with the use of stickers. Each sticker can only be used once though, you will have to think more strategically on what sticker to use to defeat your foes. You can also only use one sticker at a time, but thankfully, in battle there is an option you can use called Battle Spin, you attempt at matching three symbols up in a row which can allow you to use up to three stickers. Collecting stickers can get pretty monotonous at times, but fortunately, the game gives you plenty as you progress. You can find hidden inside blocks, from enemies, and there's even stickers placed on the walls. You can even buy and sell stickers at stores conveniently placed in several locations. In fact, the game also has a special Sticker Museum, which prompts you to go out and find every sticker known in existence to be put on display.
Something else that you will find hidden throughout the game along with stickers are special real world items referred to as "things". These "things", when collected, can be converted in stickers and can be used in battle to cause extra damage in battle. And after you have used the stickers of things in battle, you can be able to buy them back so that they can be used again and again. In fact, part of the problem solving that you will have to do throughout the game is using the things that you collect in order to progress. This can be done using a process called "paperizing". This is a special ability that Kersti has that allows you to interact with the environment, placing and peeling off stickers and objects.
One thing that may shy people away from this game is the immense amounts of problem solving and the lack of hints. There are many points throughout the game where you are forced to complete a certain puzzle or a path, and often times, due to lack of clear indication, you will find yourself having to backtrack through previous levels. Sure, backtracking is not necessarily a bad thing, but when you're given a situation and the solution is not clear to you, it can be slightly annoying. Another thing that people have noticed is the fact that you don't actually level up in the game. This makes most of the battles you face for the most part, completely useless, unless you're wanting to collect more coins. The only thing you can really upgrade is your health through special "HP-up hearts" hidden throughout the game, but that's about it.
One thing the game does emphasize heavily on is the whole "made of paper" aesthetics. From certain characters being folded and crumbled up, to the scenery being made completely out of cardboard along with the coins and hearts you collect; it really does feel like you're playing a "Paper" Mario game (no pun intended)! Also, the music is absolutely phenomenal. The way it sounds adds a unique charm to the game that I didn't think would have been possible. And although the game lacks any new unique characters or partners, it makes up for by having the special witty humor you've come to know and love from Paper Mario.
Paper Mario: Sticker Star is a delightful and charming addition to the series. While it may not be quite the game everyone had hoped for, it makes up for it by bringing back certain elements from previous Paper Mario titles with a unique twist. The complicated problem solving and lack of leveling up may seem like a drawback, but if you're willing to look past them, it becomes a really enjoyable experience. If I were to give this game a rating, it would be an 8 out of 10. One thing's for sure, Mario sure knows how to "stick" it to the bad guys! (Again, no pun intended)
Wind Waker HD for Wii U
Recently, Nintendo had announced that an brand new HD Zelda game for the Wii U is in the works. But, in the meantime, Nintendo had decided to also announce an HD remake of a familiar game. This game being The Legend of Zelda Wind Waker, a game that roughly came out about 10 years ago originally for the Nintendo GameCube.
This remake was announced in a Nintendo Direct broadcast on January 23, by Nintendo President, Satoru Iwata, who intended for this remake to ease the wait as they bring the newest Zelda game into production. The game will feature the option to play entirely on the Gamepad and will also have updated graphics and Miiverse integration. No release date for this or the new Zelda game have been revealed yet, but the estimated date for Wind Waker HD is said to be some time before Fall 2013. So, if you're a fan of the Zelda series, or if you've never got a chance to play the original Wind Waker, then hopefully this game should hold you over while Nintendo prepares the latest addition to the Legend of Zelda franchise
This remake was announced in a Nintendo Direct broadcast on January 23, by Nintendo President, Satoru Iwata, who intended for this remake to ease the wait as they bring the newest Zelda game into production. The game will feature the option to play entirely on the Gamepad and will also have updated graphics and Miiverse integration. No release date for this or the new Zelda game have been revealed yet, but the estimated date for Wind Waker HD is said to be some time before Fall 2013. So, if you're a fan of the Zelda series, or if you've never got a chance to play the original Wind Waker, then hopefully this game should hold you over while Nintendo prepares the latest addition to the Legend of Zelda franchise
My Thoughts on Pokémon X & Y
Over two weeks ago, on January 8, 2013, Nintendo had announced two new upcoming game titles that would introduce the 6th generation of Pokémon: Pokémon X and Pokémon Y.
So far, the pokémon that have been confirmed for the 6th generation have included the starters and the legendaries. This includes the grass starter, Chespin, the fire starter, Fennekin, and the water starter, Froakie, as well as the legendary for
Pokémon X, Xerneas, and the legendary for Pokémon Y, Yveltal. In addition, these games have been announced to be set entirely in a 3D environment, including the overworld and the in-game battles. Although, none of the other pokémon have been not been revealed as of yet, it has been guaranteed that the amount of pokémon will be roughly over 700. These two brand new titles will be released for the 3DS and will be launched worldwide in October 2013.
Now, I got to be honest, when these games were announced, I didn't know what to say. I was not expecting the announcement of a new generation so soon. Especially considering the fact that it's only been several months since
Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 have come out. Like most people, I was expecting them to announce a remake for
Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire. And I'll admit, I was a bit skeptical at first because they decided to make a 6th generation so early. But, during these past two weeks, I actually began to be excited for these two games.
Now, I've been a fan of Pokémon since the very beginning, and I personally can't wait for these two games to come out. The starters look cool and the legendaries look amazing, especially the one for Pokémon Y. Also, the fact that they're going to feature 3D graphics makes all the more better. I mean, people have been waiting for this for a long time. Although, we've had 3D Pokémon games before, including Pokémon Stadium 1 & 2 as well as Pokémon Colloseum and XD, this will be the first time in history that two main Pokémon games to be in fully 3D. This will also be the first time that the games will be released in all countries around the same time!
So, I say if you're a fan of Pokémon like I am, or you've been wanting an excuse to get a 3DS, OR if you've been wanting an excuse to get back into the series, then I'd highly recommend picking up these games when they come out. The wait might be a long way from now, but trust me, it'll be worth it. Although, if you're still trying to live up to the franchise's slogan of "Gotta Catch Em' All", then good luck. You're going to need it at this point!
So far, the pokémon that have been confirmed for the 6th generation have included the starters and the legendaries. This includes the grass starter, Chespin, the fire starter, Fennekin, and the water starter, Froakie, as well as the legendary for
Pokémon X, Xerneas, and the legendary for Pokémon Y, Yveltal. In addition, these games have been announced to be set entirely in a 3D environment, including the overworld and the in-game battles. Although, none of the other pokémon have been not been revealed as of yet, it has been guaranteed that the amount of pokémon will be roughly over 700. These two brand new titles will be released for the 3DS and will be launched worldwide in October 2013.
Now, I got to be honest, when these games were announced, I didn't know what to say. I was not expecting the announcement of a new generation so soon. Especially considering the fact that it's only been several months since
Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 have come out. Like most people, I was expecting them to announce a remake for
Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire. And I'll admit, I was a bit skeptical at first because they decided to make a 6th generation so early. But, during these past two weeks, I actually began to be excited for these two games.
Now, I've been a fan of Pokémon since the very beginning, and I personally can't wait for these two games to come out. The starters look cool and the legendaries look amazing, especially the one for Pokémon Y. Also, the fact that they're going to feature 3D graphics makes all the more better. I mean, people have been waiting for this for a long time. Although, we've had 3D Pokémon games before, including Pokémon Stadium 1 & 2 as well as Pokémon Colloseum and XD, this will be the first time in history that two main Pokémon games to be in fully 3D. This will also be the first time that the games will be released in all countries around the same time!
So, I say if you're a fan of Pokémon like I am, or you've been wanting an excuse to get a 3DS, OR if you've been wanting an excuse to get back into the series, then I'd highly recommend picking up these games when they come out. The wait might be a long way from now, but trust me, it'll be worth it. Although, if you're still trying to live up to the franchise's slogan of "Gotta Catch Em' All", then good luck. You're going to need it at this point!
Violence in Video Games?
With games like Grand Theft Auto, Halo, and Call of Duty, many people are starting to criticize video games as being too violent. Recent school shootings have been occurring from state to state, any a portion of the people committing the crimes claim they got the idea from video games. But the question still remains. Is the video game itself really the cause of the problem?
Concerned parents and politicians always aim the blame towards the video game companies as being evil and for "corrupting our children". But, consider this. Would companies like EA, Sony, Microsoft, and so on really be making these games with the hopes of convincing kids to go out into the streets and start shooting people? No. There are two main reasons why they create these games: 1. For the sake of entertainment and 2. To make a profit.
Also, another thing to consider is how the players tend to precede these games. There's a big difference between reality and fantasy, and it's up to the players themselves to be able to understand what's real and what's not. If the player cannot be able to tell the difference, chances are, he/she should not be playing the game.
Not only that, but the parents need to take some responsibility in what their kids are playing. They're the ones who are buying these games for their children, so they're the ones who need to take charge in decide what games they want their kids to be playing.
If there's one thing parents need to look out for, it's the rating system. It exists for a reason; it serves as a means of letting you know what age group the game is targeted for. For example, an M-rated game is intended for people are the age of 17 or older. So, if you're looking to buy your 10-year-old child an M-rated game, you may want to reconsider or at least be with them when you go to purchase the game.
Video game companies are not out to corrupt our children or to convince them to go out and shoot people. It's time for people that we need to take responsibility in what our children should be playing and they should react. Instead of blaming the companies, take time to actually sit down with your kids and tell why or why not they should be playing these "violent games". Chances are, you'll be much more successful in doing that than blindly pushing the blame towards someone else.
Concerned parents and politicians always aim the blame towards the video game companies as being evil and for "corrupting our children". But, consider this. Would companies like EA, Sony, Microsoft, and so on really be making these games with the hopes of convincing kids to go out into the streets and start shooting people? No. There are two main reasons why they create these games: 1. For the sake of entertainment and 2. To make a profit.
Also, another thing to consider is how the players tend to precede these games. There's a big difference between reality and fantasy, and it's up to the players themselves to be able to understand what's real and what's not. If the player cannot be able to tell the difference, chances are, he/she should not be playing the game.
Not only that, but the parents need to take some responsibility in what their kids are playing. They're the ones who are buying these games for their children, so they're the ones who need to take charge in decide what games they want their kids to be playing.
If there's one thing parents need to look out for, it's the rating system. It exists for a reason; it serves as a means of letting you know what age group the game is targeted for. For example, an M-rated game is intended for people are the age of 17 or older. So, if you're looking to buy your 10-year-old child an M-rated game, you may want to reconsider or at least be with them when you go to purchase the game.
Video game companies are not out to corrupt our children or to convince them to go out and shoot people. It's time for people that we need to take responsibility in what our children should be playing and they should react. Instead of blaming the companies, take time to actually sit down with your kids and tell why or why not they should be playing these "violent games". Chances are, you'll be much more successful in doing that than blindly pushing the blame towards someone else.