Compromised (XBLIG) Coming To PC!!!

Earlier this year I did a review on the XBLIG shmup "Compromised". It was developed by Super Soul Studios/Games, and offered a new take on the shmup genre. While it wasn't you're traditional shmup (shoot 'em up) game it did have traditional elements, and played a little like Metroidvania style platformers. Recently Richie of Super Soul contacted me through email letting me know about his future plans for the game. On November 16th of this year a Beta PC version will be released for purchase on Desura, and IndieCity for $3.99. Richie also informed me that the changes applied to this new PC version may be implemented on the XBLIG version as well. From what I understand the graphics will be updated, and new modes made possible. Accompanying this good news is equally impressive news about the developer's work on a multiplayer beta for the XBLIG version of the game. The update is currently in the works, and will hopefully be presented soon. Before I close I should also mention that "Compromised" is currently on Steam Greenlight. I will leave a link to it in case you are interested in checking it out.

Compromised (Steam Greenlight): http://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=93016033

Demon House: FPS (XBLIG): "Something Borrowed, Something New ..."

Photonic Games brings to the indie marketplace an FPS (First Person Shooter) title that seems to incorporate familiar gameplay features which have been used in well known FPS games throughout the years. At the heart of Demon House: FPS you'll find vague yet noticeable similarities to games like 'BioShock', 'Doom', and even 'Quake' giving the game a retrospective atmosphere. The story, or plot at the core of this game is unique however, and seems to be derived from the scfi/fantasy genre of steam-punk fiction using necromancy as it's driving factor. As the game's protagonist, an unnamed scientist you (the gamer) find that it is your duty to put an end to one of the greatest necromancers the world has ever seen. Your target, the evil scientist of the story has willingly unlocked the secrets of life, and death and has used his knowledge to raise a soul driven army of mechanical soldiers. Seeing this as a potential hazard the powers that be have summoned you to dispatch the creator, and his unholy creations through classic weapon based combat. As you venture into the domain of the dead you'll find plenty of aggressive oddities that are hellbent on your demise. With your steam-punk weaponry in hand your task is simple. Destroy the creations, set the souls free, and put a stop to the madness. Are you up for the challenge?

Neocore Games is Looking For The New Hero of "The Incredible Adventures of Van Helsing"!!!

Earlier this year (October I think?) I tweeted links to a poll/survey concerning Neocore Game's search for their new protagonist/hero. They offered the fans three distinct interview-like videos featuring animations of each character detailing the characters' views on why they should be the main star of the game. You had the Chevalier who was somewhat arrogant in nature, the fabled Van Helsing himself, and a mysterious masked stranger (my personal favorite) who seemed to be the most badass one of all. As of now there is only one week left to get your votes in. I will leave you a link to the videos as well as a link to the poll/survey in hopes that you will partake of this unique opportunity provided by the developer of the game. I have high hopes for this upcoming XBLA title, and if the screenshots, and gameplay videos are a direct portrayal of things to come then we are definitely in for a treat!

Link to the funny casting video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ekz5j_UqbJ4

Link to the original announcement: http://press.neocoregames.com/newsletter/43

Link to the voting: "CLOSED"


- Brad (OtakuDante) -

Null Battles (XBLIG): "A Retro Gravity Based FPS Title"

In my time as an XBLIG reviewer I can't recall any developer taking on the gravity based FPS sub-genre. With that being said though the XBLA game "Hybrid" did an excellent job of bringing this new sub-genre to light earlier on this year. Regardless of that fact Techno Hermit Game's 'Null Battles' brings back the arcade goodness of the old 90's era 3D geometrical based games, and blends it with today's online/multiplayer gaming capabilities. In a simple yet vastly complex way the developer delivers an indie game that not only has significant replay value, but one that also allows the gamer to create their own arenas for online/multiplayer combat. The setting adjustments are definitely plentiful, and the possibilities nearly endless. Innovation is definitely not dead as this developer has once again proved with their unique take on this FPS sub-genre.

Halloween Scream (XBLIG): "Classy Interactive Storytelling At It's Finest"

Sometimes I find that I'm guilty of pre-judging a game before I even play it myself. I'll often times take a look at the XBL marketplace screenshots in order to get a glimpse at what I'd be reviewing if I took on the task of reviewing a requested game. I know I shouldn't judge games simply on screenshots, but heaven forbid I get stuck reviewing some half-assed game that had little thought applied to it's design. In the case of Bandana Game's newly released XBLIG title, "Halloween Scream" I went in thinking that it was going to be some sort of mediocre digital story that might as well be a part of the Amazon Kindle digital book library. I didn't think that perhaps the developer had created something amazing, beyond what a digital novel could offer. In retrospect I'm sorry for my pre-game judgement, and I'm glad I got the opportunity to experience this intriguing Halloween tale from the talented developer, Bandana Games. They did an outstanding job with their well versed tale of horror.

Lucky (XBLIG): "A Twist-ed Look At The Meaning Of Life, Death & Luck"

Out of all the XBLIG developers I've come to know none have created such intriguing, and detailed stories as the ones Guy Galer (Twist-ed Games) has done. I've followed his story of Bureau Agent Kendal as she thwarts criminals with her decisive interrogations, and crime solving tactics. With every episode released I always found something special to brag about in my reviews, and Guy Galer's latest game "Lucky" is no exception to that. As most of you know through the videos I have provided with each Twist-ed Game review the developer has a very unique animation style that seems to improve in quality with each game release. In "Lucky" Guy Galer delivers his most visually appealing game yet, and keeps true to his risque semi-nude scenes as he does so. As I did my playthrough I enjoyed every moment of the interactive point-and-click story. The atmospheric, and mellow soundtrack added to the game's overall ambiance, and as such made for a truly noteworthy playthrough.