In January we heard reports that the iPhone 5 production was underway at the Chinese manufacturing plant of Foxconn. And as if to back up such reports, we heard claims from the new Apple CEO, Tim Cook, about new iDevices and “amazing new products in the pipeline”.

Another recent report by DigiTimes also claims that Apple plans to launch an iPad 3, along with a new iMac and MacBook Air, this year. The iPad 3 will allegedly be followed by an iPad 4 in October.

Personally this doesn’t come as much of a surprise to us as Apple know people can’t get enough of its products, but it seems incredibly silly to launch an iPad 4 potentially 3 – 4 months after the iPad 3 launches.

Source: CVG

MX Offroad is the next entry into the MX series of racers for iOS and Android devices. From 2XL Games, MX Offroad gives you the chance to not strap yourself into a classic dirt or quad bike and charge your way through the competitive gran prix events as you bounce around the narrow corners of dirt track courses. The game’s main menu has a knack for being decisive. On first look, it doesn’t seem like a whole lot content is there for the picking until you figure out it’s all-slide control scheme. Then you’ll find a surprisingly wealthy set of contests to win over and then perhaps some more. Just be sure to put your device’s music feature to go use. Unless you like the slow rock played during the opening and closing credits of American documentaries.

Running over your opponents isn't possible. Or is it? Sometimes it works, most times it doesn't

Jumping into the 3 difficulty choice career mode, you’ll cycle through multi-race grand prix competitions and Tony Hawk-esque trick challenges – Albeit those are watered down. For the most part you’ll be hoping to get back to the grand-prix events as soon they force you into the laborious trick contests. The untrustworthy accelerometer controls and simple “tap” stunts suck out all of the fun and creative skill chaining from the system. The only noteworthy joy from this mode comes from firing your driver over a cliff to see how much distance he can clear in the fetal position. Ragdoll is always a plus but not an option.

Racing in the other hand is, while not perfect, pretty enjoyable. The huge range in track lengths and curvy designs from FMX, MX and SX make eventually getting used to a track layout almost impossible leaving you to nail the suspension button timings on the bumps and hills to give you an edge over your opponents, it’s a strategy that effectively keeps you on the edge too. It’s a simple system, one that will really show a big difference between the pros and the novices in competitive play, something the social networking features of MX Offroad really seems to hint at. After each race you’ll be shown your results along with the recent achievements of other players connected to the OpenFeint network with the chance to challenge their accomplishments. But with the ease of exploiting the many corners of the tracks, it seems like a whole lot of foul play will eventually make it’s way onto the score boards.

If you could ride like that, the first-person camera would be a must

If track memorisation isn’t the game plan here, then you’d think choosing the right vehicle would be key, right? Well that isn’t the case either. Colour chances aside, even with the paid version we couldn’t find any additional vehicles or even any noticeable differences into the two given- a quad bike and a dirt bike (150cc or 300cc); two different types of vehicles. How the cornering on a machine with 2 extra wheels can feel the same as a bike, we’ll never know. And that’s another thing worth pointing out. If you came into MX expecting a realistic offroad racer, you’ll leave within the first 5 minutes. You won’t have to master the tight cornering mechanics or even any use of the brakes. You can effectively turn a sharp 180 degree U-bend with ease if you are willing to sharply twist your arms around to do it – and you should, it’s a race saver.

The crisp graphics are a highlight of the game, but questions were raised over the ability to distinguish corners as you turn out of another.

While if you were considering MX Offroad as your out-of-house racer you may be disappointed with the near non-existent handling and the mess of a score attack feature being nothing like what you’d expect at a real event. The core racing side of MX Offroad isn’t all that bad, however. Mistakes will see you fighting for a decent finish and mastering the suspension timings is the only sure-fire way to improve your lap times later on, but it’s potential exploits and unrealistic controls will raise some serious issues with scoreboards online play – If it had any. If you are looking for a burst of offroad fun on the go, then this is it, but those looking for a more full realistic racer should probably hold off on this one.

Final Score 2.5/5

McDonald’s, Burger King, KFC, Subway, Ibis Hotels and Etap Hotels are all taking part in the scheme.

When in range your Nintendo 3DS will connect automatically, if you’ve previously hooked it up to an internet connection before that is. Once connected you can download SpotPass content, videos, notifications and play games online.

Sounds pretty sweet really.

Source: Eurogamer

Finally though February is upon us, and with games launching once again through February and March before the quiet period of the Summer, we turned to our expert staff and asked them what games they were looking forward to most and why.

Tal S: The Last Of Us

The Last of US, this is currently my most anticipated game of 2012. Why? I love the ‘interactive cinematic experience’. Deep characters, heavy story & smooth gameplay, breath-taking cinematics all rolled into one. Plus I’m a sucker for the 3rd person action adventure game, and while there isn’t much more info out on the title yet, the recent trailer gave me a good feel of Uncharted & Enslaved’s similar styles of gameplay, mixing combat and platforming on the fly. Yes, I know it’s Naughty Dog too, but they’re not the only ones who can make a mind-blowing cinematic experience, but I do agree, they are one of the best. I’m gonna be chomping at the bit for every drop of info that comes out between now & possibly Autumn/Fall 2012. Sorry Olympics, but you’re not on top of my ‘best thing this year’ list this time.

Oh yes, sprinkle some zombie type enemies, huge draw distance graphics, solid voice work & a little bit of survival horror-esque restricted ammo & supply levels (this a post-apocalyptic scene after all). In my opinion, this could be this year’s ‘total package’ video game title.

Here’s to hoping.

Josh B: Resident Evil: Operation Raccoon City

It may seem strange to choose the this over the bigger releases of the year, but Resident Evil: Operation Raccoon City is a big title on my mind right now. I have an odd little history with the Resident Evil franchise and absolutely adored the feeling of pure fear from turning each corner of Raccoon City during the outbreak of the second and third games. The music, shuffles and groans of the zombies and the remains of those who hadn’t yet become one of them. While I think charging through the city guns blazing may destroy any feeling of chlostrophobic horror, the pure fact of running around post apocalyptic Raccoon City before its destruction and refacing the enemies of the past is something that really excites me. Having the chance to see the events through the eyes of another party while anticipating a run in with the series’ main survivors is an experience I just can’t wait for!

Chris C: Silent Hill: Downpour

As a huge fan of both survival and psychological horror games, Silent Hill: Downpour has gotten my attention over the years. Over those years, Silent Hill: Downpour has been somewhat of a mystery to me. The mystery of Silent Hill: Downpour is for the good, because little is known about the story and what the full capabilities the gameplay holds. The developer Vatra Games and publisher Konami have been keeping the mystery of Silent Hill: Downpour, which has sparked my interest due to these reasons. Why is Murphy Pendleton in Silent Hill? What dark secrets will Silent Hill hold this time? Why is it raining in Silent Hill? So many questions that need to be answered from a hardcore Silent Hill fan who has high hopes for this title. In the end, Silent Hill: Downpour might be the savior of the dying horror genre. With the official release finally set on March 13, 2012. I am ready once more to return to Silent Hill.

Vanessa H: Metal Gear Rising: Revengence

I’m definitely looking forward to Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance the most in 2012. I was first introduced to the series with MSG4: Guns of the Patriots, but it was pretty much love at first sight. For me it had everything down to a tee, from the visuals to the concept to the music. The strategy along with the story is what I loved most with MSG4, and even though MGR will be a spin-off of the series I have high expectations. My close second is a tie between SoulCaliber V and (obviously) whatever COD comes out in November.

Rob D: Yakuza: Dead Souls

There are many big games coming out in 2012, and already I feel like I will be broke before we even reach March! Although there are many games coming out, one stands out as my most anticipated and that is Yakuza Dead Souls. If you know me, then you know how much of a fan of the Yakuza series I am. Ever since playing Yakuza 3 back in early 2010 I have loved the series and it has become one of my favourite series on PS3 to date. Dead Souls is a unique take on the franchise as it includes zombies, I for one am getting sick of zombies but since it’s a Yakuza game I am very excited to see what they have done with it.  Despite the game coming out in Japan last year, and the graphics looking dated, I still can’t wait to get my hands on it, as I expect to spend 30+ hours in the game like I’ve done with past Titles in the series.

Anthony D: Hitman: Absolution

It is one of my favorite franchises and it after a long hiatus it is back and continues the unforgettable story of Agent 47, genetically engineered super Hitman. My hype meter cannot go high enough for this game after seeing it demoed. Awesome is pretty much the only word I can use to describe it. Mix awesome with a little bit of legendary and maybe you have about one-quarter of the absolute awesomeness that I am expecting from this title. You think after setting the bar for myself so astronomically high I am set for disappointment though. I however have complete faith in the awesome team over at IO Interactive who have been with the series since its incarnation. If anyone can do 47 justice it is them.

Vaughn H: WipEout 2048

Luckily I don’t have to wait too long for my most anticipated game of 2012. Despite the incredibly strong line up for this year across all formats, the title that steals my heart the most is a launch title for Playstation Vita, WipEout 2048. Having been a WipEout fan from the first title on PSX every instalment fills me with joy. The PS Vita title excites me so much because it’s got all the appeal and spectacle of WipEout HD Fury but in the palm of your hand! I can take it with me and experience the thrills of online play and enjoy the sumptuous visuals and incredible soundtrack on the go. I’m most looking forward to seeing what the new tracks are like and experiencing the origins of the Anti-Gravity racer, as this title goes right back to it’s roots. It’s not everybody’s cup of tea, especially as it takes a high level of skill just to take part in a standard race, but it’s my gaming drug, and personally I can’t wait to feel that high again.

We have to say that it’s one great year for games, and that it could well top last years high grade offerings. We want to know what games you’ve been looking forward to this year. Sound off in the comments below!

Those who name their price for the set of games, currently consisting of Anomoly, Osmos and EDGE will be able to redeem them on a plethora of digital distribution services or download them directly to their Linux, Mac, Windows desktop or, for the first time, Android. Those who pay above the current $4.21 average price will score the fantastic World of Goo too.

Go do your bit here!

He seems to think it’s his “basic job” to find the next “big hit” for nintendo. Makes sense that he would feel such a way after essentially establishing the company in a market of videogames.

“I am spending more time than before on finding new ideas for new developments, rather than focusing my energy on work in my teams in order to solidify the contents of (existing) franchise titles.”

“I am acting with the understanding that one big hit title can change multiple phases of a situation in the entertainment business, and I feel that finding such one big hit is my basic job.”

Satoru Iwata then came in to explain how the company will address the issue of Miyamoto exploring new avenues:

“There have been many people who have observed how Mr. Miyamoto works, or have been left in situations where they have to take on more significant responsibility without being allowed to be dependent upon Mr. Miyamoto.

“I am confident that people are growing. Even for the development fields that required Mr. Miyamoto’s involvement in the past, the situation is changing.”

It seems that Miyamoto wants even more hands off time from his old projects so he can begin a new one. Makes sense, although the last truly original game we saw from the man was Pikmin and that seems to have disappeared off the face of the earth at the moment.

Source: Eurogamer

Those who log into the game on an existing or new account and win any PvE or PvP mission  will instantly have a Switchblade non-combat pet delivered to their mailbox. Simple head on over to Shipping & Receiving within Dome City to collect it. Make sure you do it before February 6. Hi-Rez have also brought in a huge sale and heavily discounted every item in their Agenda Point store and with it, their entire back catalogue of limited edition “Flair” appearance items.

Lastly, the team have sponsored a player organised PvE 6v6 Arena tournament and will be dishing out goodies to anyone who participates.

Following the massive update almost a year ago, the team-based shooter hybrid MMO dropped it’s retail version and switched to Free-2-Play, meaning anyone can get in on the action!

]]> http://thegamershub.net/2012/01/celebrate-global-agendas-cake-day-with-in-game-pets/feed/ 0 http://thegamershub.net/2012/01/history-of-a-hero-red-kanto-pokemon-champion/ http://thegamershub.net/2012/01/history-of-a-hero-red-kanto-pokemon-champion/#comments Tue, 31 Jan 2012 11:30:41 +0000 Josh Brown http://thegamershub.net/?p=39866 The fascinating, ever expanding world of Pokémon has grown substantially throughout it’s fifteen year period. But for many of us, we grew up with the original 151 critters. Generation I as they call it. And with it, came the original anime series people loved. A full on story of sorts to the protagonist of the original Red/Blue/Yellow games. Though due to the fact Ash hasn’t yet reached the champion status our game protagonist did back in the day, and because we are not an anime site, this weeks History of a Hero looks back to the heroic efforts of the original Pokémon Champion – Red.

Red's original Gameboy Sprite

Red stars as the silent protagonist of the original Pokémon generation. The Red, Blue, Green and Yellow versions of the classic Gameboy craze starters all had you controlling the silently enthusiastic trainer. Even if you made him share your name while he became a second persona of yourself, he’s still officially known as Red to his many onlookers. More focus tends to be shown toward Red because of his reappearance throughout in the series and because of the memories he left in the minds of the early generation players.

At the end of his original adventure we saw him take down his childhood rival and next-door neighbour, Blue, the then region Champion, to take his spot as the new reigning master and final obstacle of a trainer’s adventure in the Kanto region. Though once Pokémon stepped into it’s second generation, the player started anew with a fresh trainer from Johto. After an adventure spanning twice the length on Red’s own, players were treated by a surprise awaiting at the summit of Mt. Silver – a final showdown with Red himself. The simple shock of seeing him again so suddenly, without any warning, was enough to send excited shivers down the backs of fans as he responded to your click with “…” before the fight began and you truly learned of his identity.

Gold looks up at the entrance to Mt. Silver - Red's famed training spot

Reaching his position of Pokémon Champion wasn’t done simply through the Gym Challenge primarily set out for the purpose. While Red of course did complete the gym challenge like many other budding trainers, he single-handily brought the devious band of thieves, Team Rocket, down at the same time. The lone boy from a small town became a one-man-army against a organised crime syndicate. Thwarting their plans multiple times and even beating the godfather like character at the foot of it all – Giovanni.

During the remakes of Red’s original adventure in Pokémon FireRed or LeafGreen, we learn a little bit more about how Red became the champion atop Mt. Silver. Following his victory against Blue, he rejected the option of taking the reigns in favour of continuing his training by heading out to the Sevii Isles cluster of islands. Here, Red defeated a small subsidiary of Team Rocket thugs and proved to them the closure of their organisation. Setting up the events of Team Rocket’s revival in the generation II games. It can be assumed Red later went on to challenge the Johto gyms before settling upon Mt. Silver as his desired training spot – The habitat of the strongest wild Pokémon back in the day.

Those of you who grew up with the series will undoubtedly see the resemblance Red has to Ash (Satoshi) from the Pokémon animated show. While they do look somewhat alike and his more lengthy, still on going quest to become a master may better suit the goals his video game version met in such a short time, it is probably safe to say the animated version is a mere reimagined version of Red’s story as apposed to game canon. Like an alternate version.

Red's updated sprite in FireRed/LeafGreen

Series creator, Satoshi Tajiri (who the show character’s name was derived from) once stated that the Pokémon Adventures manga, which followed Red in it’s original arc more closely resembled the story he was trying to convey. Leaving the animated Red counterpart even further into the “alternate version” theory mentioned earlier with his manga counterpart being a more precise version of Satoshi’s original character.

No matter how you look at it, even if you did start Red on his journey, give him your name and beat the Pokémon League as you controlled him. He isn’t an embodiment of you. Red is the face ok Pokémon through and through. His adventures through the regions carried on long after you moved on to the other games and he became the powerful boss-like character the series, and the fans, craved. His actions and influence are what made him deserving enough to earn his place as the pinnacle Pokémon game character as his model would later appear in the Stadium games, Battle Revolution, Colosseum, Gale of Darkness and many, many others. Whether he’ll ever turn up in the main series again is unknown, but those wanting to see more of Red’s actions can get a general fix from his protagonist appearence in the early Pokémon Adventures manga volumes. The way Satoshi Tajiri wanted.

The previously only available in a bundle, Pink Nintendo 3DS will break out of the confines of a bundle and be available as a standalone starting February 10th in preparation for Valentine’s Day. The console will have all the features current models have and of course come in a glossy pink finish. This all for an MSRP of $169.99. So fans who are looking for a sweet present this Valentine’s Day look no further than the Pink Nintendo 3DS.

They didn’t give any details on the game, so we are clueless to if it’ll be on DS or 3DS nor what features it might contain, but its reveal came at an event marking its 10th Anniversary.

In other Ace Attorney news, the first three games will get a re-release for iPhone 4 and iPad 2, and later Android will also receive this HD bundle of courtroom controversy.

Pheonix Wright, Justice for All and Trials and Tribulations will come with higher resolution artwork for the new platform and you can pick up the first two chapters for free! Extra chapter packs are priced at 600 yen (around £5) or you can pick everything up together at 1200 yen (~£10).

A nice feature allows those who already own the standard Phoenix Wright game to take their save across to the HD version of the game for iOS.

Source: Eurogamer