Spyleaks (XBLIG): "A Retro Espionage Story Featuring Two Classic Game Genres"

This is one of those indie games that I would have likely passed up if it weren't for the developer (HeartBit Interactive/The Benjamin Ficus) requesting a review. After receiving the developer's request I watched the youtube trailer that was attached in hopes of better understanding what I'd be getting myself into. I was surprised to see that the game had an oddly familiar style of puzzle solving gameplay to it. It was a style of puzzle gameplay that I haven't seen in what seems like ages. If you've ever played the Nintendo game "The Adventures of Lolo" then you'll know what I'm talking about (Be sure to check out the video attached to this review for reference to that). After noticing this similarity along with the fact that there was actual shmup (shoot'em up) levels in the game I was totally hyped! Needless to say I agreed to the request, and did my playthrough so I could give you guys the inside scoop on this Espionage driven puzzle/shmup hybrid.

Evil Controllers: "Custom Controllers"

As a reviewer I'm always looking to expand on what I feature here on this blog. In my search for new review subject matter I contacted 'Evil Controllers', who are known for their amazing custom console controllers. I put in my request to review an actual controller from them, and they told me it might be a possibility in the near future. This is definitely good news even though it isn't certain. Anyways I'm here to bring you the latest scoop on something new that 'Evil Controllers' is offering their customers. In the details of the press release you'll find info on the special custom design process as well as info on a sale, and even details about a contest. Enjoy!

DUST: An Elysian Tail (XBLA): "A Visually Stunning Masterpiece!!!"

Last year during my rise to reviewer fame I found a youtube video featuring a future XBLA game release that attracted my undivided attention. This game of course was none other than Humble Hearts (The Developer) debut title "DUST: An Elysian Tail". I put in my request for the game immediately after watching the teaser trailer. I knew this game was going to be something special, and I could not wait to get it even if I had to pay for it out of my own pocket. Thankfully the developer spared me the expense, and kept true to their word giving me early access to this totally amazing fantasy rpg/platformer. Today I bring to you my review of this breathtaking masterpiece that could very well be the best "Summer of Arcade" title this year!

Street Fighter x Tekken (Xbox 360): "Revisited"

I never thought in my wildest imagination that I would be so bold as to give "Street Fighter x Tekken" another shot. The game just isn't that great to be honest, but I figured I'd give it a second chance since it was rather cheap with all the discounts I got from Gamestop. Most of you know where I stand on the matter of SFxT. You probably also know of my rant, and review that are here on this blog. You've likely even read them. As harsh, and unrelenting as both articles were they were quite true at the time of posting. To sum things up the two articles detailed my complaints about how terrible the online was as well has how money hungry it made Capcom seem. While most of my opinions concerning those issues have somewhat changed since my recent playthrough of the game parts of those complaints are still very valid.

HYBRID (XBLA): "A 3rd Person Hybrid Shooter"

If a developer were to apply similar gameplay concepts as those from games like "Killzone", and "Gears of War" they'd most definitely wind up with a game like "HYBRID". Staying true to it's title, "HYBRID" seems to borrow a little something from such games as the before mentioned titles. In that sense it's a lot like a hybrid itself. This 3rd person tactical shooter revolves around the scenario of an intergalactic fight for resources that includes an invading alien (Variant) army, and the humans (Paladins) who were thrust into a fight for survival as a result of the invasion. Alongside this reminiscent "War of the Worlds" plot is a unique online 3rd person multiplayer that combines cover-to-cover combat, and territorial domination strategies.