The Battle Hardened Edition Of Dragon's Crown Pro Gets A New Bonus!

For those of you wise enough to have pre-ordered Dragon's Crown Pro from Gamestop you will have gotten, today, the "Battle-Hardened Edition" of the game. This simply means that the game comes packaged with a raised art inclusive steel book case (which is really nice), and a sealed card pack containing exclusive cards made to look like the game's character skills and common skills cards. They look a lot like tarot cards with George Kamitani art on the face of the cards. One thing I forgot to mention about the game in my review is that the soundtrack has been redone by composer Hitoshi Sakimoto. Also included is all of the storytelling (narration voice DLC) including that of the Japanese narrations. The updated game is also 4K optional, and contains cross-play functionality with the ability to import previous PS3, and PS Vita game saves. This is the penultimate version of 'Dragon's Crown'. I hope you didn't pass it up!

Vanillaware's "Dragon's Crown Pro" Returns To The Playstation In Glorious 4K Or Not!!!

I thought I'd never see Dragon's Crown reemerge on modern consoles. I thought it had lived it's course, and was long forgotten. Perhaps a gem, but forgotten. Thankfully that is not the case though, and a new generation of gamers can enjoy the experience in full with upgraded visuals to boot. For those of you who are new to Vanillaware games, George Kamitani's artwork, or Dragon's Crown you will find in place a fantasy masterpiece brought to life in the form of animated art. It is a beautiful side-scrolling co-op brawler with it's own slightly inspired story, a brilliantly read narration, and a cast of characters that make all the onscreen action worthwhile. You can go at it alone with NPC allies, or join up via the Playstation network with players across the globe. It is one of those buddy games that breaks the bounds of couch co-op, and brings to the gamer a competent online adventure that is worth taking on time, and time again.

A Glance Back At 2017's Games

I know what you're wondering. Why didn't I do the usual game of the year list? I just didn't feel bothered to do it to be honest. It's not that I don't think there were any good games, but more so that I needed a breather before getting back down to business in 2018. I also didn't want to basically sound like a parrot listing off the favorites everyone else already covered. Everybody, for the most part, seemed to enjoy what I enjoyed. While the reviewed favorites were common across most outlets I did find my leisure time preferences to be a little different than others'. To that extent I do have some things I'd like to mention before moving on into 2018's business. I'd like to take a moment to reflect on my personally favorite gaming experiences of 2017, and type about some studios that really impressed me with their offerings.

Utawarerumono: Mask of Truth (PS4)

This latest Utawarerumono game is one that is not shy in thrusting you face first into a lore already well established. It is, at heart, a follow-up to "Utawarerumono: Mask of Deception", and it shows. From Kuon's amnesia stricken introduction to her learning of her friends' circumstances that unraveled during a politically motivated visit to the neighboring imperial city of Yamato near her home nation of Tuskur, Kuon fights for forgotten memories, and eventually to reunite with those friends who are in peril from the looming war. To begin with Kuon's awakening is interrupted with fragmented memories that gradually return in the company of familiar acquaintances in a full-on, and unmanned visual novel presentation. One that can be automated, or clicked through at your own pace. This introduction catches the player up on things in a matter of about an hour, and ends with a tutorial showcasing a hands-on version of the simple SRPG elements. A grid based system of strategic battle where elements play a role in damage dealing/resistance as well as an action chain mechanic where multiple critical hits can be landed if timed properly. As the story continues to open up in the guise of a tale being told through multiple character perspectives, one being Kuon's and the other Haku's, dialogue between said characters is shared as battles are fought for both political, and friendly reasons.

UNBOXING - SMT: Devil Survivor 2 'Record Breaker' (3DS)

As I've said before I am a fan of Atlus, and their games. I'm such a fan that I won't let bad PR relations keep me from indulging in the latest Atlus RPG, or niche video game release. It's stupid to judge a gaming studio by their PR's actions. That's why I decided to go out, and pick up one of their new releases, in good faith. In fact while I was out for a lunch break today I decided to stop by the local Gamestop to pick up a copy of "Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor 2 Record Breaker" for the Nintendo 3DS. I had been watching the trailer updates via Youtube, and paid attention to the press releases that were sent my way. Having played, and owned "SMT: Devil Survivor Overclocked" I sort of knew what I was getting into with this game. The first in the series, which I just mentioned wasn't all that impressive graphics-wise, but the actual RPG combat was addictive in it's own way. Like a Pokemon game the Devil Survivor series is all about capturing demons in a post apocalyptic world, leveling them up, and using them in combat against other demonic monstrosities. In the latest installment, or re-release this concept has been added onto, and expanded upon giving the gamer more bang for their buck, and extra content that was not in the original release. With that being said this collector's edition will set you back $50 plus tax, and makes you pay outright for that additional content.

Abyss Odyssey (PS3)

With a hint of Harry Potter, a sample of Soul Sacrifice, and a clip of Castlevania the development crew over at ACE Team weave a dream-like tale of a slumbering warlock, and those who would dare to oppose his ever-spawning nightmares. The tale which follows a Chilean lore begins with the underground trek of a dreamt of female warrior named 'Katrien", and follows her as she travels down into an Abyss where her creator lies in sorrowful slumber for the past choices he has made. Katrien, who was once the Warlock's love caught wind of is secretive lifestyle, and turned on him forcing him to silence her. Unfortunately things didn't go as planned, and for the sins that followed the nameless Warlock submitted himself to an eternal sleep in which he hoped to escape the forever torment of his unrelenting nightmares. Despite his efforts though the Warlock's nightmares continued to occur, and began manifesting themselves into reality. A part of him, which is Katrien aims to right the subconscious wrongs that are currently taking place. This is where you, the gamer steps in ...

Daylight (PS4)

I love horror. Cinematic blood, guts, gore, and scares is all I need in order to be properly entertained. Nothing more, and nothing less. In fact while growing up I've spent most of my teenage, and adult life watching scary movies, and scary television shows for the sole purpose of the thrill it provides. Whether it's a movies about ghostly hauntings, sick individuals, or creatures that nightmares are made from I always find myself returning to them for the scares that they offer. Nothing quite gives you the proper jump start to the heart like a Hollywood horror flick. When it comes to scary video games the same thing could be said. Very rarely does a proper scary video come to fruition though, so you'll understand my anxiousness when I heard that Zombie Studios, and ATLUS were going to release a gaming horror experience that was ever changing.

Being the horror enthusiast that I am I was totally psyched for ATLUS's upcoming randomly generated horror game. Not only do I have a mad love for ATLUS releases, but the thought of them publishing such a game had me anticipating the potential gaming greatness incorporated. The hype was built up from the moment the game was announced, and even I helped build that hype on my blog as well as through various social media outlets. I'm sure some of you even took note of this hype. Building up hype can be a dangerous thing business-wise though. If you build it up too high everyone will expect an "AAA" title, and will not give it mercy when they experience if for themselves. Such is the case of "Daylight".

Conception II: Children of the Seven Stars (PS VITA)

Having had no prior knowledge of the series I was quite surprised to see a strategy-JRPG drama so in-depth, and vast in nature. The developers of this innuendo rich adventure known as "Conception II: Children of the Seven Stars" included an impressively rich background history on all of the characters, and organizations involved. Like a true RPG concepts such as that of good, and evil are also explored, but in a more pseudo-religious tone. While the world outside of Alterra is rarely visited, or mentioned within the game the special heroes, and heroines involved in the fight for good are given a new home in which all of the action takes. These highly ranked young ladies, and gentlemen are each gifted, and personally chosen by the Star God to fight off the growing threat caused by otherworldly inhabitants, and the seven deadly sins. Known, as the Elite these "A-S" Rank students find solace in their social interactions as well is in joined fights, and classmating. While their daily lives are mostly geared towards fighting the good fight these chosen few still have to work on their social skills in order to be prepared for the more sexually suggestive academic activities. Even though classmating may sound bad it affords the would be parents child-like allies which will accompany them in the continuous battles that they face for the sake of the world's population. Hence the title, "Conception II".

Weekend Wrap Up - 2/16/2014

I almost totally forgot about my plans to include this weekly post. As you can probably tell I've been swamped with work lately. That work load alone has thrown me off course from my regular routine. Between my work with Xcritic, Paradise Theater XxX, and OtakuDante's Gaming Inferno I've had little to no time to myself. People just don't realize how hectic a journalists' job can be. The fact that I put in more time, and effort than most journalists definitely speaks of my dedication to my work though. Despite my one man army approach I'm still doing good to get reviews out to my readers. At the current time though my adult readers are getting more attention due to the consistent flow of review material. Games on the other hand are a slow go this year, and have not been as plentiful as last year. With the new consoles released one would think that the library for next-gen would be growing steadily. Instead PS4 owners, and Xbox One owners are getting short handed with remakes, upgrades, and a pitiful selection of new releases.

Weekend Wrap Up - 1/26/2014

As you probably noticed this article before you is an entirely new addition to my gaming blog. My friend @oOScottyBOo over at Twitter inspired me to make this weekly feature, and make it a mainstay here at "OtakuDante's Gaming Inferno". You might be asking yourself what the heck is a "Weekly Wrap Up"? The "Weekly Wrap Up" is basically going to be a weekly article that I'll post each Sunday containing an insight on my week's worth of gaming activities. The topics I cover can range from rants to talks about the various games that I've spent my time playing, and what I thought about them. I might also mention games that I've picked up during the week, and let you know if they are worth your time, and money. For sh*ts & giggles I might also throw in a funny gaming story, or something humorous that I encountered in that particular week. Seeing as this is the first entry in my "Weekly Wrap Up" series I'll be covering a lot of things about my gaming activities during this week in order to give the series a proper jump start. Keep in mind though that these articles will vary in length, and can be anywhere from a few paragraphs to more than 10. It all depends on how much time I choose to spend on it. I hope that you enjoy this series of sneak peeks into my personal gaming life, and that it gives you something to think, or talk about until next weekend's post. Enjoy!

Conception 2: Children of the Seven Stars - "Teaser Trailer & More" (3DS/PS VITA)

At this point in time I've not really done much personal research on Conception 2, but I do know that in some haphazard, and mature way it is about baby making. The title of the game itself should be a dead giveaway in regards such mature themes. While this concept (pun intended) might not thrill all gamers, or parents out there I think it might just be ATLUS's next handheld console hit. As for me personally, I'm totally excited to see what sorts of new JRPG gameplay mechanics are going to be added, and used within the game. I always like developers who think outside the box, and the developers of "Conception 2" seem to have done exactly that in this anime inspired JRPG sequel. I hope that you too will greet this new gaming experience with open arms when it hits the streets of the US on April 15th of this year.

Happy Belated New Year!!!

Greetings all ye blog readers! The year is 2014, and there's lots of gaming goodness headed your way in the coming months. As I mentioned earlier I have already sent out several review inquiries in hopes of snagging some review material. So far I've only gotten two confirmations from retail game developers/PRs, but I'm sure more are on their way. Unfortunately not everyone has awoken from their holiday hibernation just yet. As far as what I'm going to cover this year goes I will be trying my hardest to cover all of the new NISA, ATLUS, XSEED, and Tecmo Koei RPGs. Without a doubt this will definitely be the year for great RPG experiences. I'm definitely looking forward to it, and hope that you are too.

More Holiday Greetings From the PR & Devs I Work With!!!

After typing up my article about the digital holiday greeting card I got from Fabian Florez (Gentleman Squid Studio) I received a few more digital greetings from other PR, and game developers. I love the fact that these men, and women of the industry don't mind sharing a little holiday spirit with me, and the other journalists who have poured our hearts out this year trying to promote the products that they make. It lets me know that someone out there in the game making/promoting industry actually cares about what I do. As such I'd like to take the time to share with you these images, and links so that you too can partake of the acts of kindness. I do understand that they were meant for me, but I think you'll enjoy them just the same. Thanks to Atlus, Neocore Games, and Reverb for the Awesome holiday greetings!!!

AquaPazza (PS3)

In the world of fighting games rarely ever will you find a plot that is 90% lighthearted, and only 10% violent in nature. Usually there's some sort of ominous evil corporation, or evil being/character lurking behind the scenes who is intent on ending, or ruling the world by some sort of ultra horrific means making the gameplay at hand more mature. As such it was a delightful treat to be able to play what I consider to be one of the few male, and female friendly fighting games available for the PS3. With AquaPazza's diverse cast of cutesy anime inspired characters gamers will likely warm up to their favorites, and enjoy using them throughout the various modes of play. You'll find everything from the cliche anime schoolgirls to mask wearing emperors, and even some feral sword toting characters who each add a bit of that anime spark that all of us Otaku long for. Through artistically crafted menus, beautifully animated cutscenes, and catchy Japanese theme songs gamers who are willing to give this game a chance will find themselves lost in one of this year's more positive experiences.

Dragon's Crown: "Patch 1.02 & Patch Notes"

Greetings fellow Dragon's Crown adventurers! Both veterans, and new players alike will be glad to hear that the team at ATLUS is continuing to hear your voices, and deal with any issues that may, or may not be plaguing you. In this latest update, deemed "Patch 1.02' you'll find such things as game stability fixes, online improvements, and even character changes. It's definitely nice to hear that ATLUS actually gives a damn about their game, and their audience unlike some other developers out there ... eh, Infinity Ward/Activision? Anyways, I will more than gladly share with you a copy & pasted version of this update detailing all the changes that have been made. If you find that you run into any other issues that have yet to be fixed be sure to get in contact with ATLUS as they will no doubt help you out.

Blog Update (Sept. 10, 2013) - "PR BS & Blog Progress"

What's up Inferno readers?

I've been quite the busy journalist as of late. I've been dealing with PR who want to see me fail, and other PR who are more than willing to work with me. It's just the way things go in the journalism biz. I'm glad I had the balls to email Kristiana Suess of EA a link to my article "Let's Talk - "Proper PR Etiquette" though. While it may not have helped EA's, or FortySeven's opinion of me it's something I feel they needed to read.

Too many PR agencies, and game developers have poor opinions of us journalists, and think that our jobs pale in comparison to theirs. The fact is that their job which they get paid handsomely for only requires the copying, pasting, and sending of emails along with some phone calls. In the end it is a paying job, and if done correctly it will not only help us journalists help the PRs succeed, but will also help all of us keep the gaming companies we are trying to support afloat in these uncertain economic times.

ZENO CLASH II (PSN)

When it comes to originality in the RPG universe hardly anyone does it like Square-Enix. Sure you'll have the occasional RPG developed by a developer who can think outside of the box (NIS America -"Time and Eternity"), but for the most part they all follow a very similar pattern. You heroes, or heroines usually come in the same RPG related classes (Barbarian, Wizard, Dwarf, Mage ...), and the enemies in an equally similar selection. Often times said hero, or heroine must face insurmountable odds against an evil army, empire, or all powerful creature or character. To say that the genre has become repetitive would be an understatement. Thankfully though the guys, and gals over at ACE Team have created a unique RPG experience like no other. Their previous release of the arcade RPG "Zeno Clash" which was hailed as a "Stonepunk" experience ended up being mostly overlooked by the gaming community, but did gain that cult following that gaming companies such as Atlus are known for. Zeno Clash had it's own mythology which was filled with interesting creatures, and characters who looked as if they were ripped from the pages of "The Island of Dr. Moreau", and rooted within a more science fiction type of world. The game's design even had an interesting Jim Henson flair about it (Dark Crystal, Labyrinth). It's the type of creative effort that would easily compete against Yoshitaka Amano's Final Fantasy creations.

Dragon's Crown (PS3/PSN)

The skies opened up, angelic voices sang, and the gods and goddesses of old bestowed there blessings upon me the day that I received the code for the upcoming release of "Dragon's Crown"! Just kidding, but even so it was a blessed event to me. I've been longing to get my hands on this game for what seems to be an eternity, and to be lucky enough to get early access to it was a privilege indeed. Both myself, and the staff at Atlus have been dropping hints for the past two months (or so) about how cool of an experience it was going to be. The fact that the pre-order bonus comes with a most excellent artbook is alone a testament to the effort Atlus has poured into the marketing/creation of this game. Keep in mind that Atlus, and Vanillaware titles are few, and far between so getting them while you can is definitely a wise decision. Most of you out there will know that Atlus's game releases/co-releases are usually gems, and end up with cult followings becoming harder to find as time passes. This is why I stressed so much to pre-order the game. Not only will doing so get you the game (PS Vita/PS3) itself, but by pre-ordering it you will also get a limited edition artbook with art by Vanillaware's George Kamitani. It's a win-win situation.

R.I.P.D. the Game (XBLA/PSN)

There's been a lot of buzz going around the internet these past couple of weeks regarding Universal's theatrical release of "R.I.P.D.". Most people see many similarities when compared to the former "M.I.B." movie series. I myself can definitely see the initial based title, and the basic plot of the film being slightly similar to "M.I.B.". At the same time though I can also say to you that it won't be a complete knock-off of said franchise. What Universal, Atlus, and Oldschool Games are obviously trying to achieve is an afterlife oriented experience in which dead law enforcement of the past (namely Roy & Nick) are standing up against an unseen threat. While this secret organization of good guys versus bad guys is similar to that of "M.I.B." the threat against the "R.I.P.D." officers are anything, but the same. In the case of "R.I.P.D." the threat does not come in the form of otherworldly aliens, but instead the ghastly, and disfigured souls of the criminally departed whom walk unnoticed amongst the living. The "R.I.P.D.", or "Rest In Peace Department" as they are known have been monitoring the recent deado gold theft activities, and have sent out Nick (A newly deceased cop) along with an old time sheriff named Roy to investigate the situation as well as take out any deados that they find. This of course is the basis, and overall premise behind the game of the same name.

God Mode (XBLA): "Welcome To Hades!"

Atlus is a game developer who is well known for their interesting takes on various video game genres. In the past they have created a popular RPG series called "Persona", and even co-developed a fighting game spin-off based on the same series. The game that stands out most for me though (besides God Mode) is "Rock of Ages". That game was leaps, and bounds "outside of the box". The wacky art direction, and interesting gameplay landed this boulder rolling strategy title in one of my earlier yearly "Top 10" lists. Needless to say I got extremely hyped when I saw Atlus's trailer for "God Mode" earlier this year. In fact I was so hyped about this game that I took it upon myself to spread the word about it through the "Twitterverse". In those early days before the release I was confident that this hellish arcade title would be fitting of my 2013's "Top Ten" list. At this point your likely wondering if it was good, or bad? Unfortunately though I cannot give you my verdict just yet. I have to give you details on the "Meat & Bones" of this afterlife arcade experience before delivering my final critique. So, without further adieu ladies, and gentlemen let us get into this review of "God Mode" ...