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  • Old Games, Big Bucks

    Old Games, Big Bucks

    A new hipster craze. Those words make my eyes roll straight out of there sockets, figuratively of course. However hipster gamers are not anticipating and pre-ordering the latest and greatest we saw announced at last weeks E3. Instead, they’re hunting through garage sales, flea markets, eBay and specialty stores for old games that came out 20 years ago. On top of that they are paying outrageous prices for these old games. looks like its time for trip to moms house to rummage through the attic for some aged tech treasure.

    The nostalgia theme taking a chunk of the video game market these days it all but fantastic. Nintendo, Atari and Sega have all brought back classic mini consoles or you can grab a raspberry PI kit and DIY. Its the Peter Pan in us aging men that is driving this desire for the enjoyments of our youth. This nostalgia isnt very discerning either as the old games and consoles that are bringing in these high dollar scores. They value is in all consoles from the Atari 2600 to the PlayStations of the 2000s.

     

    Odd Collectors are now finding them sitting on valuable assets, and hipsters are parting with tons of their parents money to get back their youth. Some games are bringing in as much as $50,000. If you are sitting on a copy of “Nintendo World Championships 1990?” Then you could have a $100,000. While its not only about the cash, please take the cash now while this market exists and the bubble hasn’t popped.  If Im writing about this then you know clever investors are plotting a what to capitalize so rest assure this bubble will pop, plan for that.

    The Final Thought

    While most collectors are more interested in rounding out their personal game libraries, reliving the games they loved as children or simply exploring the history of the gaming industry first-hand. The hype is real and these old games are back and getting a second dose of attention.

  • Which Video Game is the Greatest?

    Which Video Game is the Greatest?

    The medium of video games has grown tremendously in the past few decades. What was once considered something akin to children’s toys is now considered an art form. Many who grew up playing video games are now adults and fondly remember the games of their childhood and how those games defined them. Since E3 passed just last week, let’s discuss our favorite game of all time, and some of the runners-up. This list, of course, is entirely subjective and it’s okay if you disagree. But, for our buck, these ten games represent the very best gaming has to offer. Even if some of these games haven’t quite aged well, we’re considering their impact at the time of release. Alright, let’s get into it! 

    10. Half Life 2 

    Photo Credit: Kinguin 

    When Half Life 2 opens, you’re introduced to an Orwellian, dystopian nightmare. A brutal police state is in place, and the only person who can change things is you. Smashing the state has never been as fun as this 2004 masterpiece made it. While the gunplay is tight and frenetic, the most memorable thing about this triumphant game, other than the worldbuilding, was the gravity gun. When the game released in 2004, it had one of the most robust physics engines of all time. Using the gravity gun to slice zombies in half in the creepy Ravenholm level is exhilarating.  

    The game features smart writing and amazing worldbuilding. The game has no cutscenes, never taking agency away from the player. Yet it still conveys its story in a way that draws genuine emotions. It makes the player earn every victory. By the time you bring down the villainous Dr. Breen, you feel like you personally just led a resistance against a police state.  

    The series may never receive a proper conclusion, but this game was truly something special. It’s almost bittersweet to look back on the company Valve once was. These days the once-legendary developer is content to make skins for Dota characters and operate the ludicrously successful Steam platform. There’s currently a fan-made sequel to Half Life 2 in the works. Maybe that will give us a satisfying conclusion. 

    9. Super Mario World

     

    Photo Credit: Nerdist 

    What is there to say about Super Mario World that hasn’t already been said? Released in 1990, Super Mario World was the synthesis of all the 2D platforming games that had come before it. The game rewards exploration and mastery in ways previous video games hadn’t dreamed of. Part of that was the new technological limits offered by the game’s system, the SNES. The biggest thing driving the game, though, is the drive and passion director Shigeru Miyamoto and his team brought to the game.  

    Every stage in every world is crafted with care. The sound design is crisp and catchy. The sprite animations are charming and inviting. Everything from running to swimming to flying through the air with the cape feels incredibly natural. To this day, nearly three decades later, no platforming game has managed to top the feel of control in this game. While some, like Donkey Kong Country, would go on to be as amazing in their own right, none would ever quite surpass Super Mario World.  

    8. Final Fantasy IV 

    Photo Credit: Final Fantasy Wiki 

    Released in America as Final Fantasy II in 1991, this entry in the series would come to define storytelling in RPGs. Featuring a sweeping, epic tale of heroism and redemption, Final Fantasy IV blends story and gameplay in exciting ways. When the protagonist redeems himself and swears off the darkness, his class changes to Paladin. When characters sacrifice themselves to save you, they’re gone from the party. Never before had an RPG managed to convey its story so well through gameplay mechanics.  

    While the series would go on to continue this trend with massive games like Final Fantasy VII, it was the fourth game that really introduced this kind of storytelling. The next time you boot up a story-driven single-player RPG, remember to thank Final Fantasy IV for paving the way. 

    7. Metal Gear Solid 3

    Photo Credit: IMDb 

    The Metal Gear series has been around for more than 30 years and is responsible for some of the greatest games of all time. The greatest of the greats, though, is none other than the third entry in the Solid series. Metal Gear Solid 3 tells a Cold War-era spy thriller tale that also sets up the central conflict in the games that take place after it. Acting as a prequel to the first two games, MGS3 is a great stand-alone and excellent stealth game.  

    Enemies react to your presence naturally. You never feel unfairly targeted or caught. Using the game’s camouflage system is intuitive and natural. The voice acting is hilarious and awesome in all the right ways. The most memorable thing about the game, though, is the boss fights. Each of the primary antagonists gets a unique, drawn-out showdown with Snake, and their personalities define their fights. Each of the villains is named for an emotion, and each lives up to that emotion in their fight.  

    Cinematic, epic and gripping, Metal Gear Solid 3 remains one of the very best games of all time. If you haven’t touched the series before, at least try 3 and see what you think. If you fall in love, the rest of the series is superb and waiting for you. 

    6. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

    Photo Credit: Zeldapedia 

    The first few notes of the title screen of this game still give me chills. Playing back through the game now, I see some of the cracks in the surface. However, back in the 90’s when it came out, this game was a revolution. Mario had just shown the world what a 3D platformer looks like when masterfully crafted. Now, it was Zelda’s turn to redefine the adventure formula.  

    The first time you pluck the Master Sword from its pedestal and find yourself transported forward in time, the game opens up. Suddenly, the heroic but childish quest takes a dark, mature turn. The world outside is bleak, and the villain has already won. In the past, Link is too young and inexperienced to fight Ganon. In the future, it’s too late. That twist, and the ensuing gameplay wrinkles involving time travel, still makes the game feel inspired and fresh.  

    While it’s been talked to death in recent years, the formula of 3D action-adventure games owes everything to Ocarina. If there’s anything to fault the game for, it’s the formulaic late-game dungeon structure. But, at the time, it didn’t feel formulaic at all! It felt like a natural progression of the kinds of dungeons seen in the 2D games. The legacy of Ocarina of Time is one still felt in modern Zelda games, even the dramatic departure represented by Breath of the Wild.  

    5. Pokémon Red and Blue

    Photo Credit: SnapPow.com 

    The game that launched a mega-franchise, Pokémon Red and Blue is more than the sum of its parts. Video games, up to this point, had been relatively fringe. In the late 90’s, though, the advent of Pokémon led to a serious media craze. Trading cards, movies, TV shows and more propelled the series into a full-blown cultural phenomenon. The original games that started it all still stand as excellent examples of RPG design. 

    Featuring a unique collect-and-battle system, Pokémon was uninterested in what the player character could do. Instead of crafting your party from adventurers with swords and spells, you crafted a party of cute monsters. Catching, training and evolving those monsters proved rather addicting, and the rest is history. While the original games haven’t aged well graphically, they’re still a blast to relive. I actually like to go back through and beat the main story every year or so, just for the heck of it. This was my very first video game, so it means a lot to me. I’m pleased that the series has had such lasting impact, and look forward to seeing where it goes next. 

    4. Halo: Combat Evolved

    Photo Credit: Halo Waypoint 

    There was once an era when shooting games on consoles were ridiculed. Mouse and keyboard control schemes were considered the only reasonable way to play first-person shooters. Then, Bungie released Halo: Combat Evolved in 2001. Featuring an aim-assist algorithm that makes the player feel like a crack-shot without holding their hand, Halo redefined console shooters. Goldeneye 007 and Perfect Dark, by contrast, had relied on design tricks that made the gun fights feel floaty and imprecise. Halo was revelatory, as the action was fast-paced, precise and brutal. 

    Multiplayer would be the bread-and-butter of future games, but the first Halo wowed audiences with its single-player. The score, the ambiance and the space-opera story all gave the game a monumental, mythical scale and scope. The enemy designs were intimidating and fun to shoot at simultaneously. Each level had a unique feel and challenged the player in new ways. The most memorable part of the game, though, was seamlessly piloting vehicles over soaring vistas. Hopping in and out of vehicles was tons of fun, and Halo provided a great open sandbox for gamers to play in. 

    3. Dark Souls

    Photo Credit: Windows Central 

    Dark Souls is haunting, mysterious, and will probably kill you. While these might not sound like the hallmarks of a great game, rest assured, Dark Souls is one of the greatest video games ever made. How can this be? The controls and mechanics are largely awkward and not explained in game. The difficulty curve is absurd, throwing the player into a world of constant peril and oppressive despair. What about that makes it a masterpiece? 

    Well, Dark Souls, unlike games like Super Metroid, doesn’t succeed as a game, but as a piece of art. It forces you to grapple with it, to understand its world and mechanics intuitively. You are never guided or coached, and your victories are yours alone. As are your defeats. Dark Souls is a game that respects the player enough to not spoon feed them; the player is expected to rise to the challenge.  

    The game’s story and world reflect this: it’s a bleak place. If you back down, or stumble, you will die, and the world will be no more. If you rise up and ignite the fires, maybe things will get better.  Maybe they won’t. This existential, brooding narrative pairs beautifully with the slow-paced, measured combat. Dark Souls represents a synthesis of story and mechanics that is truly moving.  

    2. Super Metroid

     

    Photo Credit: Polygon 

    Super Metroid is a master class in atmospheric storytelling. Planet Zebes feels truly alive, and Samus’ badass solo mission always feels like it’s a breath away from failure. The world is foreboding and mythical, hiding secrets behind every corner. Super Metroid succeeds in every way as a video game: rewarding curiosity, exploration and mastery. Boss fights are white-knuckle romps, new abilities make you feel truly powerful, and the story is actually engrossing.  

    When Retro Studios took Metroid into 3D with Metroid Prime, they honored the legacy of what many consider to be the greatest game of all time. While Super Metroid is certainly amazing, it does suffer from slightly uneven pacing. It is easy to get lost in the game, for better or worse. Finding one’s way forward is quite difficult, but always rewarding. That said, there is no such thing as a perfect game, and Super Metroid comes closer than many others in getting there. 

    The Greatest Video Game of all Time: The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past 

    Photo Credit: The Verge 

    If you’ve ever played a Zelda game, you know the formula. Link is called to save the Princess. He assembles three amulets, finds the Master Sword, and then conquers eight temples. He traverses between two worlds, and then defeats Ganon. All of these tropes began with 1991’s masterful Link to the Past. Representing a huge step forward in game design, Link to the Past stands as one of the greatest games of all time.  

    The music, the world and the enemies are all alive. Mystery and adventure await in every cave, behind every door. The dungeons are well-designed, thought-provoking and full of puzzles. Exploration is always rewarded with new secrets. If ever a game deserved to be called the very best, it’s this one. Every game wishes it could capture the same spirit of adventure and wonder as Link to the Past.  

    While the formula established here may have worn thin in subsequent games, it only got as popular as it did by being so darn fun. Few other games make you feel as much like the hero of your own story as Link to the Past. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go beat this game again. 

    Feature Image Credit: Sporcle 

  • Futuristic Cyberpunk 2077 Could Be Future of Video Games

    Futuristic Cyberpunk 2077 Could Be Future of Video Games

    Acclaimed developer CD Projekt Red is fresh off the success of the Witcher 3, their farewell to the long-running fantasy RPG. At E3 this year, they had a new game to show off: futuristic RPG Cyberpunk 2077. The game looks like it could very well represent the future. Not just the future our flawed world is barreling into headlong, but the future of gaming. At the E3 demo, it seemed that anything the player chooses to do its possible. The promise of games like Deus Ex and Thief, of a completely immersive simulation, could be getting closer to reality. 

    Bloodstains Under Neon 

    Since William Gibson first wrote Neuromancer in 1984, the Cyberpunk genre has been synonymous with sex and violence. In that monumental work, protagonist Case is pulled into a web of crime, lies and violence by a beautiful, dangerous woman named Molly Millions. In that violent work, our heroes are hardly better than our villains, and the only lines dividing them are perspective. CD Projekt Red’s new game shares that spirit. The world is mean and neon and dirty, looking to chew up and consume any who take a wrong turn. If you’ve ever seen Blade Runner, you know the feeling they’re going for.  

    Fully Immersive 

    Looking cool and being powerful are all a core aspect of the cyberpunk fantasy, and this game seems to know how to deliver in that regard. Protagonist V is almost entirely in the player’s hands. The character’s backstory, skills and style are all up to the player. Clothing options can change your look and increase your stats. V is also a cyborg, so you can enhance your protagonist by upgrading various cybernetic parts. The developers have crafted a fully immersive world using the visual language of the cyberpunk genre. 

    Every action you can take, from driving to hacking to just conversing, is promised to have wide-ranging impact on the game’s world. If you go for a drive and hit a pedestrian, you’ll not only get heat from the police, but you’ll also be known as a careless and violent jerk to the people of Night City. Carefully considering one’s actions and reputation seems to be a core gameplay mechanic, one that truly fits in an immersive RPG. 

    When Can We Get Hands-On with Cyberpunk 2077? 

    We’re asking the same question, dear reader, and, sadly, we don’t know. But you can rest assured we’ll let you know as soon as we find out. Heck, we’ll be the first in line to buy the game whenever it does drop! It’s still early, but the game already looks like a contender for one of the greatest RPGs of all time. 

    Feature Image Credit: Screen Rant 

  • H1Z1 Open Beta Begins on PS4 (Finally)

    H1Z1 Open Beta Begins on PS4 (Finally)

    The zombie-shooting survival game that metamorphized into a battle royale shooter finally hit PS4 in open beta. If you’ve somehow missed the battle royale craze, it’s a genre of shooting game where a large number of players are airdropped onto a map and fight to see who will be the last man standing. Based on the popular Japanese novel (and then movie) Battle Royale, the genre was first popularized by a game called PlayerUnkown’s Battlegrounds. PUBG was followed by the absurdly popular Fortnite, which is itself a zombie survival game that split off to become a battle royale shooter. 

    What’s the Hold Up? 

    If the name H1Z1 sounds familiar, it might be due to the game’s somewhat complex development cycle. Beginning its life as a zombie-themed survival-shooter in the same vein as Left 4 Dead, the game experienced several delays. The game’s popular mode King of the Kill would come to be repurposed as a standalone battle royale game. The original, once called H1Z1, is now called Just Survive and is an entirely different game from this. 

    Seeking to follow in the footsteps of PUBG and Fortnite, H1Z1 is finally available in Open Beta on the PS4. It’s been on Windows in Early Access for a few months now, but this marks its first console outing. It is slated to receive an Xbox port later this year. 

     

     Murderous Mayhem 

    The controls, which have been described as “sluggish” on PC, have received a bit of a face lift on PS4. Sporting tighter and more responsive controls, the game is as fun as ever with the DualShock 4 controller. This is great news for any concerned that the switch from mouse and keyboard would lead to a worse overall experience for players. The fast-paced action H1Z1 is known for remains intact on PS4. 

    The game sees groups of 100 players (or more) parachuting to a remote location to fight it out. Your choice of strategy will influence your odds of coming out on top: do you choose to find a big gun and go hunting for players? Or will you lay low with a long-range rifle? Or will you (like me) hide in a building with a shotgun and hope no one finds you? The answers to these questions will shape the ever-unfolding action! 

    How Does it Stack Up? 

    Compared to its main competitors, H1Z1 is a fine game. Featuring more realistic graphics like PUBG, but more arcade-style shooting like Fortnite, H1Z1 strikes a great balance. Central to the late-game section of the battle is the presence of numerous vehicles. Teams can often hop in a battle wagon and take off looking to ride down any stragglers, leading to intense, Mad Max-style showdowns. If you like fast-paced and frenetic action, as opposed to the more plodding style of PUBG, this game has you covered. 

    H1Z1 features a somewhat bare-bones crafting system. While you won’t be building any Fortnite-style bases, you can make bandages and other small supplies. These won’t be making any huge impact on the game, but they’re interesting for those inclined to building.  

    Will You Come Out on Top in H1Z1? 

    H1Z1 is available now on PS4 as an open beta. If you think you’ve got what it takes to come out on the top of the heap, go give it a shot! It’s completely free, so you’re a download away from getting into the action! 

  • Top Ten Retro Consoles Millennials Will Never Forget

    Top Ten Retro Consoles Millennials Will Never Forget

    If you were a kid before the turn of the century, it’s pretty likely you played some console now considered retro. If you’re looking for a trip down memory lane, we’ve got you covered! Today, we’re rounding up the ten best retro consoles that you’re never going to forget! Did your favorite make the list? Read on! 

    10. Playstation 

    Photo Credit: Wikipedia 

    Sony’s first foray into the gaming industry was certainly a memorable one. The PlayStation, released in late 1995, promised to be a more mature, adult-friendly console than Nintendo’s N64. To be fair, in many ways, it was. Boasting games like Twisted Metal, Metal Gear Solid and Tomb Raider, the original Playstation solidified itself as a real competitor for Nintendo.  

    Notably, Nintendo’s N64 console opted to use cartridges, instead of CD’s, for storing games. However, this led to some developers, like Square Soft, opting to make games for the Playstation instead of the N64. For instance, the ground-breaking Final Fantasy VII, initially slated for an N64 release, went to the Playstation. This migration of third party developers would go on to really sting for Nintendo in the coming console generations.  

    9. Sega Dreamcast 

    Photo Credit: VG Chartz 

    The ill-fated Dreamcast remains a favorite of many gamers. It is largely considered one of the most-often forgotten retro consoles. The Dreamcast is largely remembered for being Sega’s last game console. Following a reasonable release, the Dreamcast lost ground to the Playstation 2. So, Sega decided to cut their losses and become a game publisher instead of a console manufacturer.  

    Yet Dreamcast had an eclectic library of unique games. While considered by many to be ahead of their time, many of these games are cult classics now. Jet Set Radio, Shenmue and Crazy Taxi are all considered to be examples of the interesting and new designs Sega was exploring. Also unique for the time was the Dreamcast’s built-in modem for supporting online play. However, due to the release of the PS2 and increasing competition in the industry, the Dreamcast was to be Sega’s last console.

    8. Game Boy Color 

    Photo Credit: Lukie Games 

    While the original Game Boy sold an absurd number of units, its successor is largely remembered by millennials as their first handheld console. The Game Boy Color boasted graphics in color (gasp!) on a handheld system, a first for Nintendo. Handheld versions of classic Nintendo series like the Legend of Zelda and Mario helped solidify the Game Boy Color as a must-have retro console. 

    A conversation about the Game Boy can’t leave out the juggernaut that is Pokemon. Originally a fun, cute little RPG about training little monsters became an international phenomenon. Millennials are united by their shared memory of how freaking huge Pokemon was. Between the card games, the cartoon and the video games, you couldn’t escape Pokemania. The first Pokemon Games were technically original Game Boy games, but Pokemon Yellow was a Color exclusive so we’ll count it. 

    7. Sega Saturn 

    Photo Credit: Wikipedia 

    The Saturn was created as a competitor to the then-aging Super Nintendo. Sporting more “mature” titles like Virtua Fighter and Panzer Dragoon, the Saturn tried to set itself apart from Nintendo. Well remembered for its faithful ports of many arcade fighting games, the Saturn was a must-have for fighting enthusiasts. 

    While the Saturn would go on to be eclipsed by the more powerful Playstation, it is still fondly remembered by many as home to many interesting games and great ports. In addition, notable non-fighting games on the system included Nights into Dreams, a trippy rail-shooter, and the blisteringly-hard Panzer Dragoon series. 

    6. Xbox 

    Photo Credit: Trusted Reviews 

    While consoles released after 2000 might not feel like retro consoles, they still fit the bill for this list. The original Xbox, released in 2001, marked Microsoft’s entry into the console wars. Buoyed considerably by the phenomenal Halo: Combat Evolved, the Xbox defined its niche as a serious-minded console. Sony’s Playstation 2 was viewed by many as a direct competitor with the Xbox, while Nintendo’s GameCube was somewhat relegated to “kiddy-console” status.  

    The Xbox is largely remembered for its humongous controller and as being something of a successor to the Sega Dreamcast. Sega released a sequel to Jet Set Radio, called Jet Set Radio Future, and another entry in the Panzer Dragoon series on the Xbox. However, Halo can’t be overstated: many millennials fondly remember LAN parties playing Halo. Additionally, when the sequel, Halo 2 was released, it pioneered Microsoft’s Xbox Live online service, showing a glimpse into the future of gaming.  

    5. Playstation 2 

    Photo Credit: Amazon 

    Sony’s successor to the Playstation would go on to become one of the best-selling consoles of all time. Home to countless incredible first- and third-party games, the Playstation 2 is considered by many a high-water mark for video games. From racing games to fighting games to first person shooters, the PS2 had something for absolutely everyone. Almost everyone had one of these things. Heck, they even played DVDs back in the days when DVD players were pretty expensive! 

    With a library encompassing Ratchet & Clank, Jak & Daxter, Sly Cooper, Shadow of the Colossus, Okami and numerous other masterpieces, it’s no wonder so many millennials remember this retro console.  

    4. GameCube 

    Photo Credit: Amazon 

    The successor to the N64, the GameCube was Nintendo’s first console to use an optical drive. For some inexplicable reason they chose to use mini-DVDs for storing games. This marked the second generation in a row that Nintendo chose to forego the industry standard for game storage. While the PS2 had countless games from 3rd party devevlopers, the GameCube is an example of how strong first-party support can make a console. Hence, beloved games like Wind Waker and Super Mario Sunshine helped the console prove its pedigree. 

    Yet as the console wars wore on in this generation, it became clear that Nintendo was moving more into their own space. While this allowed Sony and Microsoft to duke it out, Nintendo was making “purer” games, forgoing the flash and glitz of their competition. While this was met with mixed success, not all gamers loved it. Many found it refreshing that Nintendo stuck to their guns as a family-friendly developer. Others found this frustrating and longed for a more serious Nintendo.  

    3. Nintendo 64 

    Photo Credit: Venture Beat 

    How many strange decisions can a console manufacturer make and still create one of the greatest systems of all time? Let’s check the N64 to find out. Giant, three-pronged controller with odd button layout? Check. Uses cartridges instead of CDs for physical media? Check. Near-total lack of third-party support? Check.  

    Jokes aside, if you thought the GameCube got along on first-party support alone, the N64 is the poster child of the “Nintendo-machine” stereotype. However, Rare Games released game after awesome game in this era. For instance, Banjo Kazooie and Diddy Kong Racing are examples of Rare’s excellent design. However, nearly every other notable game was Nintendo-made. Pokemon Stadium, Ocarina of Time, Star Fox 64, the list goes on. 

    Rather than blemish its memory, however, this is one of the coolest retro consoles of them all, and it easily earns its high spot. 

    2. Game Boy Advance 

    Photo Credit: iFixit 

    If you’re a millennial there is a 95 percent chance you owned a GBA. This thing was huge. It’s far and away the best-selling console of all time, and for good reason. The GBA represented a renaissance of the 16-bit era, and developers were in rare form on the console. After spending a whole generation perfecting 16-bit design on the Super Nintendo, Nintendo’s developers were clearly poised to flex their design muscles. Therefore games like Metroid: Zero Mission, Pokemon Ruby and Sapphire, Golden Sun are examples of some of the greatest games ever.

    In addition to introducing a whole generation of gamers to gaming in general, the GBA also had a great series of ports. Older games like Link to the Past and the NES Classics series introduced a ton of millennial gamers to an era they might have otherwise overlooked. Because of its ubiquity, it’s impossible to overstate just how popular and influential the GBA was. Most of all, the GBA is remembered as the greatest of the handheld retro consoles.

    The Best of the Retro Consoles: The Super Nintendo Entertainment System 

    Photo Credit: Retro Fixes 

    Nintendo easily swept the top half of this list, and it’s not hard to see why. Because the consoles they released in these eras were defining, helping usher tons of kids into the hobby. The Super Nintendo is the most impressive of them all. With a revolutionary controller layout that would go on to define every gamepad that followed and some seriously impressive hardware for the time, the SNES left its mark. 

    This generation served as a golden age for 2D-platforming and RPGs. Super Mario Land and Donkey Kong Country represent the very greatest of the former. Secret of Mana, Chrono Trigger and Final Fantasy III are the prime examples of the latter. Other notable games, like Star Fox and F-Zero, showed off what the future of 3D games might end up looking like.  

    In retrospect, it’s incredible just how many mind-blowing games were on the SNES. Looking back, you can see the seeds for modern game design taking root for the first time in this era. The legacy of this generation lives on today in the design philosophy of all major studios. It also lives on forever in the memories of the kids who grew up playing these amazing games.  

  • NES Classic to Return to Store Shelves in June

    NES Classic to Return to Store Shelves in June

    The beloved Nintendo Entertainment System lives again, again! NES Classic Mini systems are slated to return to retailers June 29th, according to Nintendo, and the company claims the systems will be available until the end of the year. This is fantastic news for retro gaming enthusiasts looking to relive some of the most iconic games of all time!

    Tremendous Hit

    Since its initial release in Fall 2016, the NES Classic has been a tremendous hit, selling out its initial run in record time. Following its astonishing success, Nintendo released the SNES Classic, a miniature version of the NES’s successor, which experienced similar sell-outs. Finally, this Summer, fans who missed the initial release window will have a chance to snag the tiny retro console for MSRP, which is $60. For those who held out for a re-release, or simply couldn’t find a reasonable price on the secondhand market, this news is great!

    eBay Scalpers

    Notably, the NES Classic and its successor were both heavily targeted by eBay scalpers, scam artists who buy collectibles in large quantities and resell them on eBay and similar sites for absurd markups. Nintendo clearly didn’t expect such a massive demand for the systems, and scalpers capitalized on the low supply by further bottlenecking it and preying on nostalgia. This time around, however, Nintendo promises a much higher supple of both NES and SNES Classic systems, ensuring retailers will have them stocked for MSRP. This is awesome for customers, and terrible for scalpers. Win-win!

    NES Classic systems come preloaded with 30 iconic games, including Super Mario Bros, the Legend of Zelda, Metroid, Balloon Fight and more! You can grab one of your own and enjoy games from the 80’s that helped redefine the gaming industry when the system re-releases on June 29th.

  • Graphics Card Roundup for Gamers and Crypto Miners

    Graphics Card Roundup for Gamers and Crypto Miners

    With the price of the graphics card finally falling, now is a great time to start looking at upgrading. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your rig to handle the most demanding AAA titles or just want better performance for games like League of Legends and Overwatch, we’ve got something for you. Check out our roundup of our favorite graphics cards.

    Nvidia GeForce GTX 1080 Ti

    This is an expensive graphics card, usually found for between $800-$1000, but its price has been falling as of late. The GTX 1080 Ti is a notable upgrade over the 1060, but its price holds it back from being our recommended “best overall” graphics card. For those interested in lots of 4K gaming, though, this graphics card will not disappoint. The card has great cooling; you won’t find it running too hot like some of its premium cousins.

    This card has performance comparable to the Titan X, but without carrying the same absurd price tag. It’s worth noting that this single card isn’t quite as impressive as two standard GTX 1080’s in SLI (linked together to run as one graphics card) but it is more affordable and more easily installed and supported than an SLI set up. If you’re not afraid to spend some money and want a somewhat future-proof card for 4K gaming, this one is for you.

    AMD Radeon RX Vega 56

    The Vega 56 is an impressive card for its overall, consistently overperforming from what we expect. It is somewhat pricey thanks to BitCoin mining, but as we’ve mentioned, as that craze dies down, this card and others in its class will come down from their lofty markups. With that in mind, the Vega 56 is a fantastic choice for those looking to run Full HD gaming, consistently outperforming the Nvidia GTX 1070.

    As an investment, it is future-proofed to a degree, as it is somewhat overkill on most 1080p HD games. As 144-240 Hz monitors become more commonplace, this graphics card will begin to really shine, as it will have no trouble keeping up with such blistering refresh rates. On the downside, this one runs pretty hot, so you’ll need a hefty cooling system to keep your rig from overheating.

    As you might expect, it’s also power-hungry, so be prepared to see your power consumption go up as this card chugs away. If you want a high-end card for HD and don’t mind a bit of a price tag, consider the Vega 56.

    Our favorite overall graphics card: Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060

    If you want a solid graphics card to play HD games and don’t want to spend an arm and a leg, look no further. The GTX 1060 won’t be blowing the other cards on this list out of the water in terms of raw performance, but what it lacks in pure power it more than makes up for in value.

    You can probably snag this part for around $300 on Amazon and you expect to see that price fall as the GPU market settles down. For that price you get a reliable card that can be overclocked to even handle 4K, as long as you have ample cooling and power to maintain it.

    On the flipside, this card doesn’t over SLI, so you won’t be pairing it with another 1060 to double its output. That said, for those who simply want a strong card for a reasonable price, the 1060 hits all the benchmarks you want it to and doesn’t compromise on overclocking.

  • Hottest Nintendo Switch Games of 2018

    Hottest Nintendo Switch Games of 2018

    With Summer and E3 rapidly approaching, you’re surely looking for something new to play on your Switch. While the release of Super Smash Bros, Fire Emblem and Pokemon are still a little way off, there’s no need to worry: there’s still a ton of cool games to check out on your Switch! Today we’re rounding up our favorite Switch titles of 2018 so far!

    Bayonetta 2

    A port of the Wii U hit, Bayonetta 2 is available as a standalone digital release, or as a physical release that comes included with a copy of the first game. Bayonetta is a must-have for fans of fast-paced, frenetic action.

    With a main character who oozes style and dispatches angels and demons without breaking a sweat, Bayonetta follows in the footsteps of greats like Devil May Cry and Ninja Gaiden. If you missed this one on Wii U, or if you just want another crack at the addictive action on the go, you should check out the Switch version!

    Kirby Star Allies

    Everyone’s favorite pink puffball is back on the Switch! While Star Allies doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it is still an excellent addition to Kirby’s impressive library of games. Sporting silky-smooth drop-in drop-out couch co-op and the triumphant return of power combinations, this is a game built with friends in mind.

    Whether you’re all on the couch in the living room or huddled around the console in tabletop mode, Star Allies makes for a great centerpiece to an afternoon hanging out with buddies. If you’ve enjoyed Kirby’s previous 2D platformers, you’re going to find a lot to love in this beautiful HD update to the classic formula.

    Celeste

    Okay, this one isn’t Switch exclusive, but it really might as well be. A charming (and burtally difficult) 16-bit platformer, Celeste tells the tale a young girl trying to climb a mountain. The game has pitch-perfect controls, witty writing, likable characters and cool retro graphics. While the game’s soaring difficulty curve might put some off, the game offers an assist mode to help players who are struggling.

    However, the game’s story directly addresses how personal growth occurs when we challenge ourselves to reach new heights. This game is a showcase of how to marry game mechanics with story: with each level you beat, you get that much closer to scaling the mountain. But, the more you push, the harder it gets. Perseverance, determination, and some tight platforming skills are required to reach the top.

    Our Favorite Switch Game Right Now: Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze

    Another port of a fantastic Wii U game, this sequel to the 2006 revival of Donkey Kong Country deserves your attention. If you liked the originals back on the SNES, or their Game Boy Advance remakes, you should give this game a shot. Combining the old-school philosophy of level design and world building, DKC:TF consistently challenges the player to up their game.

    With a pitch-perfect difficulty curve that keeps you learning new ways to challenge yourself and superb visuals and music, this entry in the storied series deserves your attention. On the Switch it gains a new level of portability over its original incarnation, which adds even more reason to check out this version.

  • Nintendo Unveils Details of Switch Online Service

    Nintendo Unveils Details of Switch Online Service

    After multiple delays and rampant speculation, Nintendo has finally announced details of their paid online service for Switch. Originally slated for a Fall 2017 release, the service will finally launch this Fall. Priced at $20 per year, the service will allow users to browse and play a select library of NES games with new online functionality.

    The Games

    Nintendo is bringing classic NES titles the Legend of Zelda, Balloon Fight, Dr. Mario and Super Mario Bros. 3, Donkey Kong, Ice Climber, Mario Bros., Soccer, Super Mario Bros. and Tennis to the service, with more to follow. This is in contrast to Nintendo’s previous Virtual Console branding, which Nintendo says won’t be returning to Switch. This Netflix-like approach resembles game-streaming services and could represent a new, modern direction for Nintendo.

    Interestingly, Nintendo promises online play for many of these NES classics, but has given no further details. One could only hope for simultaneous co-op in Super Mario Bros 3, or epic matches of Tennis! This is clearly Nintendo playing to their deep well of classic games in order to set themselves apart from their competition.

    Cloud Saves

    This service will also (finally) allow users to make cloud back-ups of their game saves, a feature that has been standard for Nintendo’s competition for years. Many players have noted that the lack of cloud saves led to them losing all of their save data when their console was lost or damaged. The inclusion of cloud saves will certainly lead to sighs of relief from Switch fans.

    Online Play

    The online service is also necessary to play games online, of course, so fans of Mario Kart 8, Splatoon 2 and Super Smash Bros. will have to shell out if they want to play those games main modes. Thankfully the service is significantly less expensive than Sony and Microsoft’s offerings, positioning Nintendo as a more family-conscious company yet again.

    Speaking of families, the online service will also allow a $35 subscription that allows one account to share online features to the other accounts on the Switch. The $35 plan would be ideal for families who all play games from the same Switch.

    What Else?

    This is a somewhat bare-bones announcement, and leaves room for speculation. Certainly, Nintendo will have more to say about this service, which launches this fall, by E3 this summer. Many fans are hoping for news of digital versions of Game Boy and Super Nintendo games. many others are eager to see if Nintendo will incorporate voice chat in a form other than their much-maligned Nintendo Online App.

  • The Best Gaming Mouse for Your Buck

    The Best Gaming Mouse for Your Buck

    When it comes to PC gaming, picking the right mouse is important! It’s the way you aim, point, select, and shoot! Finding a mouse with all the right features and at the right price point can be difficult, and with that in mind we’ve compiled a round-up of our four favorite gaming mice. Let’s get right to it!

    Corsair Dark Core RGB SE

    If you’re looking for a wireless gaming mouse with tons of versatility and customizability, look no further! Corsair’s name is synonymous with quality in PC enthusiast circles, and for good reason! Their Dark Core RGB is no exception. With only one millisecond of latency and sporting a fantastic 16,000 max DPI, the Dark Core is the rare wireless mouse made with gaming in mind. The Dark Core is on the high end, price-wise, retailing for $80, but it comes with fully programmable, customizable buttons and bright, elegant RGB LEDs. Even cooler, the Dark Core makes use of wireless Qi charging, so if you pick up the Corsair MM1000 Qi Mousepad you can wirelessly charge your mouse after every gaming session.

    Logitech G903

    For those Logitech faithful, the G903 is a solid wireless mouse. A slight iteration on the older G900 model wireless gaming mouse, the G903 boasts a respectable 12,000 DPI and low latency. The mouse can also be wirelessly charged from Logitech’s own PowerPlay mousepad. The finish and feel of the G903 are both high-quality, as is expected of Logitech. It is worth noting that the G903 is somewhat overshadowed by the Corsair Dark Core, as all of the G903’s key features (wireless mouse with wireless charging, high DPI, low latency, etc.) are all replicated with aplomb by the Dark Core, all for a lower MSRP. The G903 is surprisingly expensive, at around $115 on Amazon, while the Dark Core is only $80.

    SteelSeries Sensei 310

    Affordable and reliable, the Sensei is one of two SteelSeries products on this list. The Sensei sports a TrueMove 3 optical sensor, offering nearly unmatched tracking and responsiveness. With a sleek metallic finish and superior make, and going for around $55 on Amazon, the Sensei is a stellar choice for gaming enthusiasts looking to not spend an arm and leg on a gaming mouse but still desiring a precise and accurate mouse.

    Our Favorite Gaming Mouse: SteelSeries Rival 600

    In our opinion, this is the absolute best gaming mouse in the world right now. Sporting a rock-solid 12,000 DPI and a revolutionary depth-sensor, the Rival has loads of bells and whistles for its price. It features customizable weight and full-spectrum RGB LED support, and also bears satisfyingly-clicky mechanical switches on the side. The Rival can be snagged from Amazon for right around $80. This putsit in the same price range as the also-excellent Dark Core. With its superb build quality, customizable buttons, RGB support and precise optical performance, there is really no better wired gaming mouse for the price. If you’re remotely serious about gaming and have $80 to spend on a peripheral, this is an auto-purchase.

    What Next?

    Now that you’ve got your pick for gaming mouse, it’s time to check out gaming keyboards! Check out our roundup of the best gaming keyboards to pair with your new mouse!