Just Kidding

By: Jeb Haught

DEVELOPER: Capcom

PUBLISHER: Capcom

SYSTEM: Xbox Live Arcade (PSN)

PRICE: $9.99 Download

ESRB RATING: Teen

REVIEW RATING: 3.5 stars (out of 5)

Video games have changed quite a bit since the 1980s; this is reinforced by playing the download-only “Capcom Arcade Cabinet” series. One of the recent additions to this series is the “1985 Game Pack” that contains three classic games sure to bring back fond memories.

Newcomers to classic games will be surprised by the extreme difficulty of “Ghosts N’ Goblins,” “Section Z” and “Gun.Smoke.” With no handholding or save spots located every ten feet, these games can be downright maddening! Although they appear to be vastly different, each game tasks players with moving around the screen, attacking enemies and dodging a plethora of projectiles.

My favorite is “Ghosts N’ Goblins” because it reminds me of playing the original game for hours on end at the local arcade. Players guide Arthur the knight through deadly surrealistic environments in a desperate attempt to save his girlfriend. Although Arthur begins with a meager spear, players can collect additional weapons, like axes and throwing knives. These weapons provide different attributes that can have a dramatic affect against certain enemies.

Next, we have the futuristic shooter, “Section Z,” where players control a spaceman as he navigates a dangerous underground fortress. Multiple enemies shooting projectiles from every direction compound the excitement. Players can use a handy jetpack and a quick 180-degree turn button to gain an advantage, and improved weapons and quick speed boosts can be obtained along the way.

Last on the list is the wild west-themed shooter, “Gun.Smoke.” Unlike most vertical shooters, this one lets players blast enemies in front of them and on each side! This feature comes in mighty handy since the sheriff is attacked by desperadoes packing sidearms and dynamite as well as nimble ninjas slinging shurikins! For an extra advantage, make sure to hop on the speedy horse whenever it becomes available.

Since there are no console game emulators, “Capcom Arcade Cabinet: 1985 Game Pack” is your best bet for gaming nostalgia.

‘Darkstalkers Resurrection’

DEVELOPER: Iron Galaxy Studios

PUBLISHER: Capcom

SYSTEM: PlayStation Network (XBLA)

PRICE: $15.00

ESRB RATING: Teen

REVIEW RATING: 4.0 stars (out of 5)

Way back before the abysmal “Twilight” series ruined the idea of vampires fighting against werewolves, Capcom actually made this concept fun. The unusual title, “Darkstalkers,” threw a dark mix of supernatural creatures together in their own pugilistic fighting game that was fast and furious! Now fans can rejoice as the series has been brought back to life in the form of “Darkstalkers Resurrection.”

This title offers both the second and third “Darkstalkers” games in one handy package that retains their original glory. Fortunately, none of the fighting mechanics have been altered, which should please fans of the series. However, there are many new additions that add more enjoyment to the package, with the most prolific being online multiplayer combat.

Due to the fast nature of this series, it’s crucial to have seamless online game play. Thankfully, the online experience is not only free of lag, but it also lets players filter the region, latency and even the skill level of opponents. Players can also create groups of up to eight players to fight each other, and those who aren’t fighting can spectate. Lastly, players can now create and run their own tournaments to see who is the true master of the night.

Also new to the series is a useful tutorial mode in the form of character trials. In addition to teaching maneuvers, these trials also provide reasons why certain moves are vital for survival. Veteran and new players alike will surely benefit from completing the trials for every character.

I find it very nostalgic to play classic games like this in their original form, but a cool array of visual filters is also available to customize the experience. For instance, players can “smooth” the look to make it less pixelated and/or stretch the visuals to fit wide-screen TVs.

“Darkstalkers Resurrection” may frustrate newcomers, but this is the game that fans of the series have been waiting for.

REVIEW SCORING SYSTEM

5 stars = Must Have

4 stars = Very Good

3 stars = Above Average

2 stars = Bargain Bin

1 star = Don’t Bother

RATINGS KEY

Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB)

E: Everyone

E10-plus: (Everyone 10 and older)

T: Teen (13 and older)

M: Mature (17 and older)

To find out more about Jeb Haught and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2013 CREATORS.COM.

By: Jeb Haught

DEVELOPER: Platinum Games

PUBLISHER: Konami

SYSTEM: Microsoft Xbox 360 (PS3)

PRICE: $59.99

ESRB RATING: Mature

REVIEW RATING: 3.5 stars (out of 5)

Konami’s “Metal Gear Solid” series hooked gamers with a winning combination of sneaky stealth, intense action and high-quality visuals. Action fans loved the ability to play as a samurai-wielding cyborg in part two, and now Raiden stars in his own game. Although “Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance” oozes with style and hyper-intense combat, the game is way too short!

The story begins four years after the events of “Metal Gear Solid 4,” and follows Raiden as he seeks revenge(ance) for getting his butt kicked in the opening scene. He immediately gets a major upgrade to his cyber-body and sets about slicing and dicing his way through cyborgs as easily as a Ginsu knife slices through warm butter.

This is where the trouble begins. Although the extremely flashy combat makes players feel like a total badass, it quickly grows monotonous. Sure it’s cool to take down a towering Metal Gear by slicing off appendages, but why do I have to trod through boring, static environments and destroy dozens of mindless enemies in between the cool battles? Why can’t it all be cool instead?

Blade Mode helps to break up the monotonous combat by letting players initiate bouts of slow motion where they’re free to cut through enemies to their heart’s content. During Blade Mode, players can activate the Zandatsu move that steals energy from enemies so they can initiate Blade Mode again. While this is fun at first, it eventually turns into a disappointing wash, rinse and repeat style of play.

I would have been completely bored if not for the ability to scavenge additional weapons from bosses. Each one offers distinct benefits, like gaining a further reach with the staff, launching enemies into the air with a heavy weapon, and pulling enemies close to you with the Sai.

Take out the familiar franchise elements, and “Metal Gear Solid: Revengeance” pales in comparison to “Bayonetta.”

‘Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time’

DEVELOPER: Sanzaru Games

PUBLISHER: Sony

SYSTEM: Sony PlayStation 3 (PS Vita)

PRICE: $39.99

ESRB RATING: Teen

REVIEW RATING: 3.5 stars (out of 5)

Platformers ruled the gaming roost at the dawn of the century, but now they seem to be more rare than an albino raccoon! Believe it or not, there are some gamers who don’t want to riddle enemies with bullets or chop them into pieces for hours on end. Perhaps that’s why Sony decided to resurrect their popular cel-shaded platform franchise with “Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time.”

Everyone’s favorite cuddly yet mischievous raccoon, Sly Cooper, returns with his animal cohorts to pilfer items that don’t belong to them. However, this time the gang sneaks through time as they attempt to stop history from being changed. You see, Sly’s genealogy book, called the “Thievius Raccoonus,” is being rewritten, and only traipsing through exotic locals like feudal Japan and ancient Arabia can return things to normal.

While the game play doesn’t stray too far from the standard platforming formula, it still provides plenty of fun and variety. I love the ability to swing up to rooftops and zip across tricky areas with ease almost as much as I love sneaking up on enemies to perform stealth takedowns. It’s also fun to pickpocket enemies and search for hidden treasures in each level as Sly and perform humorous belly-flops on enemies as Bently, the chubby hippo.

Platforming games hinge on tight controls, and this game certainly delivers in that aspect. Players who blame missed jumps or falling off rooftops on the controls are simply in denial. I also appreciate how slight blue glimmers of light indicate areas that can be traversed. It’s just enough to give a hint to players in need without holding their hand and making it too easy.

Add in gorgeous hand-drawn cut-scenes and equally stunning environments, and “Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time” emerges as the most enjoyable platformer I’ve played in years!

REVIEW SCORING SYSTEM

5 stars = Must Have

4 stars = Very Good

3 stars = Above Average

2 stars = Bargain Bin

1 star = Don’t Bother

RATINGS KEY

Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB)

E: Everyone

E10-plus: (Everyone 10 and older)

T: Teen (13 and older)

M: Mature (17 and older)

COPYRIGHT 2013 CREATORS.COM.

By: Jeb Haught

2013-02-08

DEVELOPER: Telltale Games

PUBLISHER: Telltale Games

SYSTEM: Windows 8/7/Vista/XP (Xbox 360, PS3)

PRICE: $10 Download

ESRB RATING: Mature

REVIEW RATING: 4.0 stars (out of 5)

Just when I thought the zombie fad may be … err … dying off, the popularity of the undead is resurrected by “The Walking Dead” TV and video game series. This year, fans of the TV show have been satiating their macabre desires in between seasons by playing installments of the video game, and the latest episode is filled with twists and turns as well as plenty of bloodletting!

While both series follow different characters in the same setting, “The Walking Dead Episode 5: No Time Left” centers on a man named Lee. “Episode 5″ sees Lee searching for the abducted child, Clementine, which concludes in a silly chase that seems removed from the zombie-infested world. Like past episodes, key characters will die, and this time Lee must make a difficult decision that will determine how … umm … handy he is in the future.

At first glance, this video game series doesn’t look special. In fact, some people would consider the cartoon-like visuals to be mediocre. There’s no sprawling vistas or heavy attention to detail. Even the point-and-click game play is unremarkable. What sets this game apart is the excellent storytelling coupled with the cause-and-effect choices forced upon players.

Ever since Episode 1, players have had to make extremely difficult decisions on the fly for their character such as: “Do I help this person while putting Lee in danger?” Other decisions involve forging alliances, which usually turns other people against Lee. Most of these decisions have immediate results, while others affect how Lee is treated later in the game.

Episode 5 focuses more on storytelling and less on difficult choices as it becomes obvious that some characters were never meant to survive. However, the excellent ending for “The Walking Dead Episode 5: No Time Left” (which also ends the first season of the video game series) makes up for this and sets up Lee and Clementine as the dynamic duo to follow in 2013!

“Fist of the North Star: Ken’s Rage 2″

DEVELOPER: Koei

PUBLISHER: Koei

SYSTEM: Microsoft Xbox 360 (PS3)

PRICE: $59.99

ESRB RATING: Mature

REVIEW RATING: 1.5 stars (out of 5)

“Hakuto No Ken,” better known as “Fist of the North Star,” is the ultimate Japanese anime. It features over-the-top, uber-brawny pugilists with surrealistic powers fighting for control of a post-apocalyptic wasteland! With such cool source material, what could go wrong by turning it into a video game? Who knew the answer was “everything”?

Instead of confusing players with a new storyline, the developers have decided to retell the exact same tale from the first game. Sadly, the story is conveyed mostly through still images of characters with no actual animation, and there’s no English voice-over this time around. That’s not just a slap across the face to players of this full-priced game; it’s more like a punch to the gut!

Just like the original title, this sequel features game play similar to that of “Dynasty Warriors.” Players first choose a character, and then they venture out onto bland battlefields and slay thousands of boring enemies that all look and fight the same. Yawn! While the environments were mildly interesting in the first game, they’ve been dumbed-down for the sequel. Even more insulting is the fact that it seems like the developers literally copied visuals and fighting moves from the first game into the sequel.

Occasional battles against leaders provide more of a challenge than fighting the masses, and players can toss out a powerful signature move whenever their power meter is filled. Unfortunately, every character’s combat abilities from the first game have been copied to the sequel with hardly any noticeable additions. The only difference I find is that boss fights require more dodging and frequent use of signature moves to defeat, which doesn’t seem like an upgrade to me. At least there are a few new characters to play with.

Still, “Fist of the North Star: Ken’s Rage 2″ is so bad on every level that I wouldn’t even recommend it at half the price!

REVIEW SCORING SYSTEM

5 stars = Must Have

4 stars = Very Good

3 stars = Above Average

2 stars = Bargain Bin

1 star = Don’t Bother

RATINGS KEY

Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB)

E: Everyone

E10-plus: (Everyone 10 and older)

T: Teen (13 and older)

M: Mature (17 and older)

To find out more about Jeb Haught and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2013 CREATORS.COM.

By: Jeb Haught

DEVELOPER: Level 5

PUBLISHER: Namco Bandai

SYSTEM: Sony PlayStation 3

PRICE: $59.99

ESRB RATING: Teen

REVIEW RATING: 4.0 stars (out of 5)

It’s not surprising that Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) were eclipsed by action RPGs soon after Japan lost its worldwide domination of game development. Nowadays it’s difficult to find a good old-school JRPG on any console. Fortunately, the PS3-exclusive title, “Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch” is just as enjoyable to watch as it is to play!

This lengthy game centers on a young boy named Oliver who is in despair after the tragic death of his mother. He meets an unusual fairy who whisks him away to a fantasy realm, teaches him magic and helps him prepare to save the day. For some reason, saving this magical realm might also bring Oliver’s mother back to life, and that’s all the motivation he needs.

One cool feature is that this daunting journey takes the wizard-in-training all over both the new-found fantasy realm and also his familiar Earthly neighborhood. Both areas, as well as every aspect of the game, are so beautifully rendered that they also motivate players to explore every inch possible!

Exploration will inevitably lead to countless combat encounters, which are the highlight of the game. Players form traditional small parties for combat out of their characters, but they can also utilize Familiars. These are small creatures found throughout the game that are highly effective in combat, and they can even learn new moves. Unlike a certain other game, players don’t “gotta catch ‘em all” to win or even enjoy playing.

Anyone who doesn’t like the combat might as well stop playing because it takes a lot of “grinding” (fighting monsters just to level up) in order to defeat tough enemies. Grinding is common among JRPGs, but newcomers to the genre may find that it becomes monotonous.

“Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch” has a few small hurdles to overcome, but the overall game is fun and delightful!

‘Devil May Cry’

DEVELOPER: Ninja Theory

PUBLISHER: Capcom

SYSTEM: Microsoft Xbox 360 (PS3)

PRICE: $59.99

ESRB RATING: Mature

REVIEW RATING: 3.0 stars (out of 5)

It only took a few minutes of playing the original “Devil May Cry” for the phrase “wow, that was cool” to become my own personal mantra. Since then, the DMC series has undergone several changes — some good and some bad. Now the DMC reboot has received an overhaul, and my new mantra has become “wow, that was easy!”

Future Earth is covertly controlled by the Demon King Mundus, who poses as a wealthy businessman. Only “The Order” knows the truth, and this secret organization has the lofty goal of freeing humanity from enslavement. Dante is recruited by The Order to help slay demons, and his selfish attitude is only eclipsed by the unnecessarily offensive and childish storyline. After witnessing the ridiculous events in this game, indeed the devil may cry … with laughter!

Just like past installments in the series, combat is fast and furious! Players build up high-scoring combos and earn style ratings based on their skills. However, there isn’t much challenge to fighting, especially since it’s too easy to render enemies nearly harmless by endlessly “juggling” them in the air. I also wish that the style ratings weren’t changed from being based on variety to being based solely on damage!

New to the series is the ability to have a variety of Angel and Demon weapons in addition to Dante’s trademark pistols and Rebellion sword. Sadly, there’s hardly much use for the pistols during combat. However, I do like how changing weapons during combos can actually increase the amount of damage inflicted. It’s also cool that certain platforming areas add much-needed variety to game play.

“Devil May Cry” may disappoint core fans of the series, but newcomers will surely find something alluring about slaying demons.

REVIEW SCORING SYSTEM

5 stars = Must Have

4 stars = Very Good

3 stars = Above Average

2 stars = Bargain Bin

1 star = Don’t Bother

RATINGS KEY

Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB)

E: Everyone

E10-plus: (Everyone 10 and older)

T: Teen (13 and older)

M: Mature (17 and older)

To find out more about Jeb Haught and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2013 CREATORS.COM.

By: Jeb Haught

DEVELOPER: Power A

PUBLISHER: Power A

SYSTEM: Android 2.3 or Later

PRICE: $49.99

REVIEW RATING: 4 stars (out of 5)

As a core gamer for over 30 years, l will be the first to admit that I snub my nose at cellphone games. At first the simplicity was a turn off, but now there are hundreds of high-quality casual and core games available. However, I still can’t get past the annoyance of using touch screen controls. Not only do my fingers block major portions of the on-screen action, but they also leave an oily residue that further diminishes the visuals. Thankfully, a handy new mobile gaming controller called the MOGA has managed to eliminate these flaws.

The MOGA is a black rectangular controller that can be paired with Android cellphones and tablets to move the controls off-screen. It has a cool built-in retractable arm that holds Android phones sideways at a comfortable angle, letting users see both the screen and the controller. Since it uses Bluetooth to connect to Android phones and tablets, the MOGA doesn’t have to be attached to the unit it controls. It’s even possible to hook it up to a cellphone or tablet, and then display the visuals on certain televisions.

I’m thrilled to see that the MOGA uses the familiar ergonomic console controller setup to which most gamers have become accustomed. Since Nintendo feels the need to change their controller setup for every new console, the last thing I want to do is learn is another foreign set of button placements! Dual analog sticks grace the front of the MOGA, and four face buttons above the right analog stick resemble that of Sony’s and Microsoft’s controllers. Two shoulder buttons add extra controllability to the unit, and there’s also a start and select button on the front. My only complaint about the controls is that the analog sticks don’t offer full movement.

Anyone who likes third-person action games or first-person shooters simply has to add this cool device to their collection! It makes playing these types of games so much more enjoyable because players can focus on slaying enemies instead of struggling with the controls. The MOGA also greatly enhances flying and space combat games as well as platform games like “Sonic CD” and “Pac-Man.” I can’t imagine the frustration of playing these types of games using touch controls!

Not every game on the market works with the MOGA because games must have compatibility added by the developer. Fortunately, this can be done both during development or added in a patch after release. Currently there are around forty games that are compatible with the MOGA, including: “GTA: Vice City,” “Steampunk Racing 3D,” “Jet Set Radio,” “The Dark Knight Rises HD” and “Real Soccer 2013.” In addition, at least two free games are included with the MOGA app. All compatible games can be downloaded from the MOGA app store or the Google store, but better support will come from MOGA itself.

Not only does the MOGA enhance my portable gaming experience, it’s also very quick and handy to set up and use. The unit comes with it’s own carrying bag, and both the MOGA and an Android phone (unless it’s the Galaxy Note II) will fit easily into a standard pocket. It only takes a few seconds to pull out the MOGA, attach a phone, and then get the gaming party started! Sadly, one major oversight can cause problems. The control button on Samsung Galaxy phones (and possibly others) ends up on the underside of the phone when turned sideways, so it isn’t accessible when the MOGA is attached. This means that gamers have to manually remove the phone from the device to adjust the volume, which is an unnecessary annoyance.

Power A claims that the MOGA will run for up to eighteen hours on two triple A batteries, and I have yet to run into any problems with power consumption. However, I would gladly sacrifice a few hours of power to get a rechargeable battery pack instead of using standard batteries.

Casual gamers will be intrigued by the MOGA controller, but this handy device is a must-have for core gamers on the go!

REVIEW SCORING SYSTEM

5 stars = Must Have

4 stars = Very Good

3 stars = Above Average

2 stars = Bargain Bin

1 star = Don’t Bother

To find out more about Jeb Haught and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2013 CREATORS.COM.

By: Jeb Haught

DEVELOPER: 343 Industries

PUBLISHER: Microsoft

SYSTEM: Microsoft Xbox 360

PRICE: $59.99

ESRB RATING: Mature

REVIEW RATING: 4.0 stars (out of 5)

When the Master Chief was presumed dead by all of humanity at the end of “Halo 3,” only his cyber-companion, Cortana, knew that he was really in stasis. Those who played the game on normal difficulty were left to wonder if he would ever be rescued, but those who played on Legendary knew otherwise. Needless to say, the infamous armored warrior returns to slay aliens and save the galaxy once again in “Halo 4,”

After the Master Chief awakens from years in stasis, he and Cortana discover a new alien threat on a remote planet. Thankfully, the Prometheans aren’t nearly as annoying as The Flood, and they’re much more enjoyable to eradicate. I also appreciate how players get to learn much more about what it takes to create the hardened uber-soldiers known as Spartans.

Anyone who expects a revolutionary game will be disappointed, but honestly, most fans of the series want familiar game play. Despite having a completely new developer, “Halo 4″ delivers exciting game play complete with devastating weapons, awesome vehicles (like the new Mantis mech) and an interesting story!

Gamers flock to the Halo series for the single player adventure, but they definitely stay for the addictive online multiplayer experience. “Halo 4″ offers a whopping nine different adversarial multiplayer modes as well as a separate Spartan Ops cooperative campaign and the ability to play the single-player mode in online coop.

After witnessing the lackluster visuals in “Halo 3,” fans will be thrilled to see the gorgeous vistas and complex structures this sequel has to offer. Everything seems to be rendered in higher detail, a new lighting system accents these details, and the Master Chief looks better than ever!

“Halo 4″ may offer little more than what gamers expect, but the refined game play and abundance of gaming modes is sure to satisfy any cyber-warrior.

‘Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two’

DEVELOPER: Blitz Games Studios

PUBLISHER: Disney Interactive

SYSTEM: Sony PlayStation 3 (Xbox 360, PC)

PRICE: $59.99

ESRB RATING: Everyone

REVIEW RATING: 3.0 stars (out of 5)

After enduring hundreds disappointing games on the Nintendo Wii, gamers were thrilled to dust their console off and play the wondrous title called “Epic Mickey.” It offered fun game play that consisted of much more than simplistic mini-games and ‘waggling’ their controller. Sadly, the frustrations found in “Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two” outweigh the joy of a new playable character, unless the game is played cooperatively.

When a series of earthquakes threaten to destroy the dark and twisted cartoon Wasteland, it’s up to Mickey and his new companion, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, to uncover the mystery of their origin. The unlikely duo settled their differences and, ironically, they are assisted by the Mad Doctor antagonist from the original game.

Players assume the role of Mickey Mouse and once again use his magic brush to paint objects into existence as well as paint thinner to remove them. Some combat is involved, but the majority of game play consists of solving puzzles, completing quests and traversing the unusual environments. It’s too bad that a map system wasn’t implemented because it’s very easy to get lost.

Instead of going through the game alone, players are assisted by Oswald and his handy remote control. With this useful device, Oswald can take control of machines and use electricity to his advantage. Perhaps the biggest new feature is the ability for a second player to take control of Oswald so the two critters can work together in split-screen coop mode.

Teaming up for coop is the ideal way to play this game because the A.I. that controls Oswald in single player mode is so irritating that even youngsters may swear at the screen. An awkward camera system that requires constant adjustment and unusually slippery surfaces only add to the frustration.

“Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two” will certainly … err … draw youngsters, but most older gamers will only tolerate playing it in coop mode.

REVIEW SCORING SYSTEM

5 stars = Must Have

4 stars = Very Good

3 stars = Above Average

2 stars = Bargain Bin

1 star = Don’t Bother

RATINGS KEY

Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB)

E: Everyone

E10-plus: (Everyone 10 and older)

T: Teen (13 and older)

M: Mature (17 and older)

(SET IMAGE) jha120712adAP.jpg (END IMAGE) (SET CATPION) “Halo 4″ (END CAPTION)

(SET IMAGE) jha120712bdAP.jpg (END IMAGE) (SET CAPTION) Epic “Mickey 2: The Power of Two” (END CAPTION)

To find out more about Jeb Haught and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2012 CREATORS.COM.

By: Jeb Haught

DEVELOPER: Telltale Games

PUBLISHER: Telltale Games

SYSTEM: Windows 7/Vista/XP (Xbox 360, PS3)

PRICE: $10 download

ESRB RATING: Mature

REVIEW RATING: 4.0 stars (out of 5)

I’m not a fan of horror movies, but for some odd reason I can’t seem to satiate my need for zombie slaying! That’s why I really enjoy watching “The Walking Dead” TV show and playing the video game. Episode 3 of the video game was not only horrifying, but also it forced players to make extremely difficult choices. This set a high bar that “The Walking Dead Episode 4: Around Every Corner” doesn’t quite surpass.

Players take on the role of a troubled man named Lee whose arrest by the police is disrupted by a worldwide zombie outbreak. Lee soon discovers a young girl who is all alone, and they band together to try and survive. Eventually they meet up with other survivors, and players are forced to make decisions that affect later portions of the game. In episode 4, the survivors arrive in a town called Savannah and search for a boat to escape the undead threat.

Fortunately, player decisions have more of an impact on the current and future episodes than they did in previous episodes. I also enjoy the fact that the writing in episode 4 has more … err … bite to it. Established characters are visibly changed by their horrific experiences and a new living enemy emerges.

There is also more gunplay in this episode than past ones, which would be welcome if the controls weren’t so unwieldy. Players use Lee to explore various areas on his own, but they feel a bit disjointed. On the plus side, conversation choices are remembered and offered as the default choice in future conversations.

Game play issues aside, “The Walking Dead Episode 4: Around Every Corner” still temporarily satisfies my hunger for zombie cyber-violence.

‘Midway Arcade Origins’

DEVELOPER: Backbone Entertainment

PUBLISHER: Warner Bros. Interactive

SYSTEM: Microsoft Xbox 360 (PS3)

PRICE: $29.99

ESRB RATING: Teen

REVIEW RATING: 3.5 stars (out of 5)

Modern consoles, handheld devices and even cell phones provide such high-quality gaming entertainment that it’s easy to forget how far the video game industry has advanced in a short amount of time. However, a few hours playing the nostalgic compilation, “Midway Arcade Origins,” will definitely help anyone gain a newfound respect for modern game developers.

Believe it or not, this title contains thirty-one classic titles from the golden age of arcade gaming for less than $1 per game! I remember how easy it was to waste five dollars worth of quarters in less than fifteen minutes at the local arcade (which horrified my parents!), so this is quite a bargain! Fortunately, every single game is presented in it’s unrefined, vintage glory, so anyone who enjoyed these games in the arcade will like them at home.

Listing every single game would take up most of this review, but it’s safe to say that there is something to please everyone. Some of my favorites include: 720, Defender 1 and 2, Gauntlet 1 and 2, Rampage, Robotron 2084, Spy Hunter 1&2, and Xenophobe. Most of the games in this compilation focus on combat of some sort, but A.P.B., Bubbles, Marble Madness, Root Beer Tapper, Super Sprint and Toobin’ are sure to please those old-school gamers who prefer nonviolent entertainment.

Playing these games against friends is one of the major draws to arcade gaming, so I appreciate the ability to play side-by-side at home. Sadly, the only online feature is the ability to compare scores via leaderboards. Would it really be so difficult to offer online multiplayer for up to four people?

Some of the titles suffer a bit from the lack of track-ball and steering wheel controls, but “Midway Arcade Origins” is still a great blast from the past.

REVIEW SCORING SYSTEM

5 stars = Must Have

4 stars = Very Good

3 stars = Above Average

2 stars = Bargain Bin

1 star = Don’t Bother

RATINGS KEY

Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB)

E: Everyone

E10-plus: (Everyone 10 and older)

T: Teen (13 and older)

M: Mature (17 and older)

By: Jeb Haught

DEVELOPER: Activision

PUBLISHER: Activision

SYSTEM: Microsoft Xbox 360 (PS3, Wii)

PRICE: $75.00 Starter Pack

ESRB RATING: Everyone

REVIEW RATING: 4.0 stars (out of 5)

Plenty of video games are based on toys, so it seems inevitable that the two would be merged into a tech-savvy hybrid. Last year’s ?Skylanders? game introduced the idea of turning real-life toy figures into video game heroes, and ?Skylanders Giants? adds new characters and abilities to the innovative mix.

This sequel truly is a bigger and badder game, mostly due to the introduction of ancient mythical Giant Skylanders that sport all new abilities. These giants join eight new characters and dozens of old Skylanders from the first game to fight an evil wizard named Chaos and save the day.

For those unfamiliar with ?Skylanders,? the basic premise is that real-life toy figures can be purchased, and each one of them contains a microchip. When placed on a special required peripheral called the Portal of Power, each toy comes to life in the game and players can use them to interact with the environment and combat enemies. This transformation is a joy to behold the first time, and kids can’t seem to get enough of the ?magical process.?

Each character has special abilities that lets them access different areas, so several characters much be purchased separately to complete every area of each level. This sounds expensive, but the game can still be finished without purchasing additional toys. I also appreciate the ability to use any figure on any console, which eliminates the need for console compatibility.

Although the game play itself isn’t very deep, it does offer an enjoyable dungeon-crawling experience filled with plenty of puzzles to solve, enemies to defeat and loot to collect! Players can also level up their characters to make them more powerful and collect hats for temporary buffs! These boosts become very handy when traversing the larger and more complex levels found in the sequel.

Children will certainly love playing with the ?Skylanders Giants? characters both in-game and in real life.

‘Dragonball Z Budokai HD Collection’

DEVELOPER: Dimps Corporation

PUBLISHER: Namco Bandai

SYSTEM: Microsoft Xbox 360 (PS3)

PRICE: $39.99

ESRB RATING: Teen

REVIEW RATING: 2.5 stars (out of 5)

My biggest wish while playing the original ?Dragon Ball Z Budokai? series was that I could fight opponents online, but I had to wait for a new DBZ series for that option. While modern ?Dragon Ball Z? games allow online matches, the game play focuses too much on cinematic camera angles and uncontrollable sequences. Now ?Dragon Ball Z Budokai HD Collection? brings the old-school ground-and-pound combat into this generation, but it offers little else.

For some reason, this ?collection? only features ?DBZ Budokai? parts one and three, but not part two. I suppose that it might be due to the unfavorable reception of part two, but die-hard fans would prefer the entire series. Still, the fact that part one covers the entire anime plot from the Saiyan Saga until the Android Saga while part three follows the DBZ movies as well as Dragon Ball GT is almost enough to sell this collection on its own.

I welcome the fact that the combat system for each game is unchanged and also that trophy and achievement support has been added, but modern gamers need more than gorgeous visuals to revisit a series. I’m sure that DBZ fans would appreciate new modes, especially online multiplayer support.

?DBZ Budokai 1? features 23 perturbed pugilists as they trade earth-shattering attacks and ear-shattering soliloquies in Story mode. Additional combat can be found in Duel and World Match modes, but there’s little difference in actual game play or even the fighters themselves. Too much effort was spent on balance and not enough was spent on creating stylish and unique characters.

On the other hand ? err … fist, ?DBZ Budokai 3? features a much more robust combat system complete with incredible transformations, teleportations and even a Hyper Mode that opens up even more powerful moves. Over 40 overly-powerful characters are available to customize with special capsules that unlock transformations and character fusions. This is still my favorite game in the entire DBZ series!

However, due to the limited improvements, ?Dragon Ball Z Budokai HD Collection? will only appeal to fans of the series.

REVIEW SCORING SYSTEM

5 stars = Must Have

4 stars = Very Good

3 stars = Above Average

2 stars = Bargain Bin

1 star = Don’t Bother

RATINGS KEY

Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB)

E: Everyone

E10-plus: (Everyone 10 and older)

T: Teen (13 and older)

M: Mature (17 and older)

To find out more about Jeb Haught and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2012 CREATORS.COM.

By: Jeb Haught

DEVELOPER: Arkane Studios

PUBLISHER: Bethesda

SYSTEM: Microsoft Xbox 360 (PS3)

PRICE: $59.99

ESRB RATING: Mature

REVIEW RATING: 4.5 stars (out of 5)

Some people don’t have enough patience to enjoy stealth games, but I could watch virtual paint dry if the reward was a silent takedown. Thankfully, there’s nothing in the fun-filled game, “Dishonored,” that is remotely boring. In fact, the game-play is so enjoyable that I am looking forward to playing through each mission several more times.

“Dishonored” takes place in an ultra-stylish, Steampunk-inspired Victorian city called Dunwall, where whale oil provides the energy for futuristic devices. Promising cyber-assassins take on the role of Corvo Attano, a bodyguard to the Empress who is framed for her murder. After he escapes with the help of a mysterious group of resistance fighters, Corvo seeks bloody revenge on his enemies.

Players have the freedom to either rush in with guns and blades blazing or sneak around to do their dirty work. I prefer skulking in the shadows and trying not to be discovered as I accomplish various missions, dispatch enemies and locate valuable power-ups. I also appreciate how sneaking around has it’s own bonuses, like finding alternate routes simply by listening to conversations. Fortunately, Corvo can stand his own ground when the alarms sound and enemies rush in from every direction.

His razor-sharp sword is very useful, but it becomes a brutal blade of precision when combined with handy gadgets and magical powers. For example, it’s much easier to teleport right behind an enemy for an assassination instead of sneaking up on him, and sending a horde of rats at enemies will surely keep them occupied while I slip by unnoticed! In addition, Corvo can also possess animals and humans, and his crossbow can fire regular arrows as well as explosive and sleep-inducing projectiles.

Trial and error is a big part of what makes this game so fun. How else could someone figure out ingenious tactics like: teleporting to the roof, busting through a window into the target’s lair to slit their throat, using slow time to quickly carve up some guards, and then possessing a rat and running through small pipes to escape.

Simply put, “Dishonored” has my vote for game of the year.

‘Marvel vs. Capcom Origins’

DEVELOPER: Iron Galaxy Studios

PUBLISHER: Capcom

SYSTEM: Microsoft Xbox 360 (PS3)

PRICE: $14.99 download

ESRB RATING: Teen

REVIEW RATING: 3.5 stars (out of 5)

When asked about Marvel superheroes, most people refer to various blockbuster movies made over the last ten years. However, true superhero fans always return to the comics that spawned them and the fast-paced 2-D fighting games of the 1990s. Apparently, these are the gamers that “Marvel vs. Capcom Origins” was made for.

This title combines two classic Capcom fighting games from the ’90s: “Marvel Super Heroes” and the original “Marvel vs. Capcom.” While they’re both fun and exciting, it seems odd that no actual origins fighting games were included. I think “Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter” would have been a better selection than “Marvel Super Heroes.”

“Marvel vs. Capcom” definitely shows it’s age by offering a small roster of only 22 perturbed pugilists. Fighting favorites like Zangief, Chun Li and Ryu join classic superheroes such as the Hulk, Wolverine and Captain America. Players choose two fighters and a third computer-controlled character to engage in epic team battles that shake the very foundation of the Earth. After the frantic fighting found in the sequel, I appreciate the slower pace that “Marvel vs. Capcom” offers.

“Marvel Super Heroes” is a one-on-one 2-D fighter that features twelve superhero favorites pulled from the X-Men and the Avengers. Also included is everybody’s favorite wall-crawler, Spider-Man! This fast-paced fighting game uses Infinity orbs that players collect during battle to offer various power-ups, such as gaining extra armor from Space gems and elemental damage from Reality gems.

Both games have been enhanced with basic online modes that offer lag-free matches, which is sorely needed for such fast-paced gaming! Sadly, veterans of the series’ will know and employ every exploit imaginable, so be prepared for frustrating losses!

Despite the archaic game play, “Marvel vs. Capcom Origins” will surely satisfy fans of 2-D fighters!

REVIEW SCORING SYSTEM

5 stars = Must Have

4 stars = Very Good

3 stars = Above Average

2 stars = Bargain Bin

1 star = Don’t Bother

RATINGS KEY

Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB)

E: Everyone

E10-plus: (Everyone 10 and older)

T: Teen (13 and older)

M: Mature (17 and older)

(SET IMAGE) jha101212adAP.jpg (END IMAGE) (SET CAPTION) ” Marvel vs. Capcom Origins ” (END CAPTION)

(SET IMAGE) jha101212bdAP.jpg (END IMAGE) (SET CAPTION) ” Dishonored ” (END CAPTION)

To find out more about Jeb Haught and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2012 CREATORS.COM. S

By: Jeb Haught

DEVELOPER: Codemasters

PUBLISHER: Codemasters

SYSTEM: Microsoft Xbox 360 (PC, PS3)

PRICE: $59.99

ESRB RATING: Everyone

REVIEW RATING: stars 4 (out of 5)

Even though F1 racing sports the most complex road vehicles on the planet, I have never been much of a fan. I’ll admit that F1 is more exciting than NASCAR, but so is watching paint dry! It’s a good thing that my opinion is in the minority, or else no one would enjoy the accurate racing found in “F1 2012.”

This year’s high-octane version begins the career mode differently by forcing players to pass the Young Driver’s Test, which is basically a tutorial. Series’ veterans may find this feature annoying, but newcomers will find it to be very useful. Not only does it teach the basics of high-speed racing but also it stresses subtle nuances like drafting and drag reduction.

After the driving test, players join a small F1 team and begin to work their way up the ladder by participating in 20 races per season. But these aren’t just simple races, as promising drivers must undertake practice sessions and then qualify before racing! Figuring out the best vehicle setup and then qualifying can be overwhelming for newcomers, which is why the new Season Challenge is welcome.

Season Challenge offers ten races instead of twenty, as well as the option to skip practice sessions and jump right into the action! This is a great feature for newcomers and players who can only play for short periods of time. Champions mode is also new and pits players against popular drivers in six races that gradually increase in difficulty.

It may seem like nothing new has been added to the actual racing physics, but that’s because the improvements are meant to go unnoticed. Vehicle handling is spot-on, steering is more sensitive, and some areas of the track can be wet with rain while others are untouched. As a result, finding the right position on each course is just as important as jockeying for the lead position in the race!

Add fast-paced online multiplayer options to the mix, and “F1 2012″ becomes the most realistic racer to date!

‘The Walking Dead Episode 3: Long Road Ahead’

DEVELOPER: Telltale Games

PUBLISHER: Telltale Games

SYSTEM: Windows 7/Vista/XP (Xbox 360, PS3)

PRICE: $5 digital download

ESRB RATING: Mature

REVIEW RATING: 3.5 stars (out of 5)

Season 3 of “The Walking Dead” TV show begins in just a few weeks, but who wants to wait until then to satisfy their demented zombie cravings? I’m afraid I’ll get symptoms of withdrawal if I don’t see innocent people become zombie carpaccio soon, so I’ll play “The Walking Dead Episode 3: Long Road Ahead” to … ahem … maintain good health!

Although this point-and-click adventure is set in the same world as the graphic novel and TV show, it follows a different cast of characters. Players take on the role of Lee, a man with a troubled past who’s forced to make difficult decisions just to survive! This is by far the most shocking and tragic episode so far, and it results in some major cast changes for episode 4.

“The Walking Dead” series is known for creating realistic reactions and consequences to the choices players make. Everything from creating alliances to who gets to eat can have a major impact on the rest of the game. In retrospect, some choices seem meaningless, but the choices made in this episode will have the most dramatic effect of them all!

Episode 3 also offers more action sequences than any other episode, which is both good and bad. I enjoyed the ability to finally use a rifle against the undead, but it’s frustrating when there’s no option to invert the aim (or remap any controls for that matter). Another action sequence is overly difficult because the collision detection is off, and yet a third one has a timer and is easily failed by simply hitting the wrong interaction button.

With only two more episodes to go, I can’t imagine how much more disturbing the series can become after witnessing the events found in “The Walking Dead Episode 3: Long Road Ahead!”

REVIEW SCORING SYSTEM

5 stars = Must Have

4 stars = Very Good

3 stars = Above Average

2 stars = Bargain Bin

1 star = Don’t Bother

RATINGS KEY

Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB)

E: Everyone

E10-plus: (Everyone 10 and older)

T: Teen (13 and older)

M: Mature (17 and older)

To find out more about Jeb Haught and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2012 CREATORS.COM.

Savannah is one of North America’s Oldest Elephants

 What: The El Paso Zoo’s Asian Elephant will celebrate her 60^th birthday in style! Savannah will be treated to her favorite activities and treats throughout the day- including a special breakfast with guests, a bubble bath, a pedicure and piñata enrichments.

Guests will have the opportunity to take part in activities such as the Breakfast with the Elephants, the Elephant Produce Hunt (registration and details below) and watch as Savannah gets a bubble bath and a pedicure.

                     SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES:  

8:30-9:30 a.m. – Breakfast with the Elephants

(Reservations Required. Deadline to register: Sunday, September 23, 2012).

Breakfast includes a breakfast buffet with coffee, juice, fresh fruit, bacon, eggs alongside the elephants! Come spend some time with our elephant zoo keepers and of course our Asian elephants Savannah and Juno. $25 for adults includes Zoo Admission for the entire day ($10), breakfast buffet and education program ($15). $16 for children ages 12 and under includes entrance fee for the entire day ($6), breakfast buffet and education program $10). El Paso Zoological Society Members can deduct the Zoo Admission – $15 for adults, $10 for children

10 a.m. – Elephant Pedicure Presentation at Exhibit
12 p.m. – Elephant Encounter at Exhibit
12:15 p.m. – Elephant Bubble Bath at Exhibit
12:30 p.m. & 2 p.m. – Produce Hunt (Ages 7 and Up – Reservations Required).

This special behind the scenes 30 minute adventure gives participants an opportunity for an inside view of the elephant facilities plus the fun

of hiding food for the elephants before they are let back out into the main viewing area. Children 7-12 must be accompanied by a paid adult. $5.00 per person plus zoo admission.

When:           Saturday, September 29, 2012

9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

                     Breakfast begins at 8:30 a.m.

Where:        El Paso Zoo, 4001 E. Paisano, El Paso, TX 79905

For more information, visit elpasozoo.org. For news and exclusive content, follow us on

Facebook (www.facebook.com/elpasozoo) and YouTube (www.youtube.com/user/theelpasozoo).

FOCUS ON THE FAMILY with Jim Daly and Dr. Juli Slattery

Q: I have a happy, smart, energetic 8-year-old daughter who’s struggling with two problems — she’s messy and off-task most of the time. She’s a straight-A student, but I constantly have to push her to get ready for school, do her homework and get to bed. It’s exhausting! She seems unconcerned and unmotivated, and would rather play than anything else. How can I help her?

Jim: We’ve heard from other parents in your situation. Our first thought is that your daughter could use a good dose of self-discipline. This would not only help her be more efficient in completing her tasks, but it would also relieve you of the burden of policing her all the time.

Implementing a system of rewards and reinforcement can help your daughter learn to take responsibility and show initiative. Maybe you can tell her that if she gets herself ready for school for a straight week without having to be constantly monitored, you’ll take her out for a milkshake on the weekend. (The occasional milkshake is a great motivator for my boys — and for me, too!)

She also needs to experience negative consequences. You don’t want her to flunk out of school, but if you stop hounding her about her homework and she ends up getting a lower grade as a result of a late assignment, the trauma of that experience might offer just the motivation she needs to stay on top of her schoolwork next time.

Be sure to cut her some slack, too. Some kids are more messy and flighty by nature, and you don’t want to change her personality entirely. Just be sure to affirm her when things go right. A kind word from you will likely be the best reward of all.

**

(Jim Daly is president of Focus on the Family, host of the Focus on the Family radio program, and a husband and father of two. Dr. Juli Slattery is a licensed psychologist, co-host of Focus on the Family, author of several books, and a wife and mother of three.)

(Submit your questions to:

ask@FocusOnTheFamily.com)

COPYRIGHT 2012 FOCUS ON THE FAMILY, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80995

INTERNATIONAL COPYRIGHT SECURED. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

FOCUS ON THE FAMILY

with Jim Daly and Dr. Juli Slattery

Q: I’m struggling with how to keep my kids motivated throughout the school year. In past years, I’ve felt like the cheerleader, constantly encouraging them to take school seriously. How can I make this year different?

Juli: Many parents dread the beginning of a new school year even more than their children, for the very reason you mentioned. It takes a lot of energy to motivate kids to stay on top of their work!

One key to starting out the year on a positive note is to begin with realistic and objective goals as a source of motivation. Whereas the right kind of goals can be encouraging, the wrong goals can add to feelings of apathy and failure.

First of all, make sure the goals you help your kids set are realistic. For example, most children are not capable of getting all A’s and stop trying when they receive their first subpar grade. So, instead, how about setting the goal of getting a higher math grade than they did last year or turning in their assignments on time?

Secondly, your child’s goals should be objective or measurable. Having the goal of “working hard” may sound inspiring, but it will feel like nailing Jell-O to a tree unless there is an objective way of seeing progress.

Finally, remember that not all school goals should be academic. Although grades are important, your child may also need to focus on goals more related to character or social skills.

Whether your children are entering kindergarten or college, help them to create a goal or two and write them down. Younger children may need to have their goals mapped on a sticker chart so they can see their progress.

Your job is to slowly transfer the motivation for doing well to your children. Teaching your kids to set and achieve goals is a great step in the process.

**

(Jim Daly is president of Focus on the Family, host of the Focus on the Family radio program, and a husband and father of two. Dr. Juli Slattery is a licensed psychologist, co-host of Focus on the Family, author of several books, and a wife and mother of three.)

(Submit your questions to: ask@FocusOnTheFamily.com)

COPYRIGHT 2012 FOCUS ON THE FAMILY, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80995

INTERNATIONAL COPYRIGHT SECURED. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.