I admit, I’m a poker freak. I have loved the game for years now, with Texas Hold ‘Em — the most popular poker variation in the world — being a particular obsession of mine. I have owned more versions of the game on more platforms than I probably want to admit, and I still haven’t gotten my fix. To me, when it’s done right, it’s a perfect casual game — pick it up, play a few hands, put it down and go back to your life.

As someone who’s also a student of pop culture, then, I am the perfect target audience for “Poker Night 2,” the newest release from Telltale Games. The creators so many episodic adventure titles like “Sam and Max,” “Back to the Future: The Game,” “Jurassic Park” and 2012′s Game of the Year, “The Walking Dead,” this is a much more straightforward, yet endearingly fun idea: Take four wildly varied figures from entertainment, plop them at a poker table and let them banter entertainingly with each other while you play.

It was initially explored in the original “Poker Night at the Inventory,” with figures like the Heavy from “Team Fortress 2″ and Strong Bad from the website HomestarRunner.com playing. For the follow-up, Telltale has assembled an even more impressive (and ludicrous) line-up: Brock Samson from Cartoon Network’s “The Venture Brothers”; the little robot Claptrap from the hit shooter series “Borderlands”; dog detective Sam from their own “Sam and Max” series; and Ash, the hero of the original “Evil Dead” franchise. And the coolest touch of all is the game’s dealer: GLaDOS, the villainous computer from the classic “Portal” series.

The end result of bringing together all these disparate elements is a wildly entertaining game of cards, even more so due to the hilarious dialogue that gets tossed about while the game progresses — with plenty of tips of the hat to fan service tossed in for good measure. If it wasn’t for a few flaws in the presentation, not to mention some major problems with the PlayStation 3 version of the game (which this review is based on), this might be the perfect bargain game for those looking for a quick fix of both comedy and cards.

First things first: The voiceover cast is incomplete. Bruce Campbell, the iconic star of “Evil Dead,” does not provide the voice for Ash in this game. At first, I thought this might be a big issue, but the actor who does perform Ash does a decent job, and the writing for the character has such a great ear for what Ash sounds like that, amazingly, Campbell’s absence isn’t missed nearly as much as I thought it’d be.

Helping the issue is the fact that all the other characters are, indeed, voiced by the appropriate voice actors, particularly the great Patrick Warburton as Brock Samson and Ellen McLain as GLaDOS. But again, the writing of each character is what it’s really all about — if they didn’t sound like themselves, the basic structure of the game’s entertainment value would be worth little. But they do, and the writers of this game are to be commended for that.

That banter is the game’s bread and butter. As a poker game, “Poker Night 2″ is fairly basic in structure and control scheme, and doesn’t provide a particularly challenging game of cards. It’s the interaction between the characters that gives the title life, with genre-bending conversations you never thought you’d hear — Ash asking Sam why he doesn’t wear shoes, Claptrap hitting on GLaDOS, Brock laughing at the thought of Sam, a dog, playing poker. An impressive amount of material is crammed into the game, with more to discover as you play.

That isn’t to say the banter is infinite, though; you’ll hear the same bits repeated after just a few play-throughs, sometimes even in the same game. The writing is entertaining enough to not annoy TOO much, especially on a game that costs only $5 on Steam/PC, or up to $10 on the PlayStation Network.

The PlayStation version, though, is incredibly problematic. Sony fans have been given a port with numerous bugs and freezing issues. My copy seems to have a random pause occur at least once per hand, which is ludicrous. At first I thought the issue was with my system, but many others on the Net have been reporting similar problems. I seriously hope these issues are patched very, very soon, because it’s a shame to ask fans to spend twice the price for such a flawed version.

For fans on most operating systems, though, “Poker Night 2″ will simply be a blast, with fun characters interacting in very fun ways. With tons of goodies to unlock while playing — “Borderlands” skins, PS themes and more — this cheap title provides more than its weight in value. I just hope the PS3 version has its flaws corrected, and soon.

Tags: Jeff McGinnis, PlayStation 3, Poker Night 2, Pop Goes the Culture, PS3, Steam/PC, Telltale Games

This entry was posted on Wednesday, May 15th, 2013 at 9:30 am and is filed under Arts and Life, Pop Culture, Pop Goes the Culture, Video games.
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It is most certainly a time of evolution for video games. But while more and more players are getting their gaming fix from smartphones and tablet devices, gamers who rely on consoles for their fix still have plenty of choices to whet their appetite, especially with the arrival of Nintendo’s brand new Wii U on the scene. If you have a player on your shopping list and you’re unsure what to stuff in their stocking this season, have no fear. Here’s a few great games to choose from for each of the three major consoles — one obvious choice and one less obvious.

XBOX 360

Microsoft’s champion console is certainly nearing the end of its life cycle, but that doesn’t mean that it has any shortage of awesome titles for players to pick from. The most noteworthy of these is certainly “Halo 4″ ($59.99), the continuation of the flagship series for the console. Bringing together the best elements of this classic first person shooter franchise’s epic story and legendary multiplayer capability, this game, from 343 Industries, more than lives up to the legacy. But then, let’s be honest — if you have an Xbox 360 owner on your list and he or she doesn’t already own “Halo 4,” you wanna scratch their name off because they probably don’t exist.

What about for players who are looking for something a bit unusual? No matter who you have to buy for, I defy you to find someone who won’t be enthralled by the retail release of Telltale Games’ epic adventure series “The Walking Dead: The Game” ($29.99, also available for PS3 and PC). This set of downloadable games made a huge splash this year, captivating fans with its emotional and malleable story so much so that it won “Game of the Year” at the Spike Video Game Awards on Dec. 7. Now collected in one package for fans that missed out, this series cements Telltale as one of the premiere game producers in the world today.

PLAYSTATION 3

For any longtime fan of Sony consoles, the top choice this holiday is pretty obvious: Superbot Entertainment’s “PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale” ($59.99). This “Super Smash Brothers” inspired brawler pits 20 classic PS characters against each other, which is a blast for sheer nostalgia alone. But it also is a wildly entertaining fighting game, with enough strategy to appeal to hardcore players while still being intuitive enough to entertain anyone who just wants to pick up and play. As a bonus, if your recipient has a PlayStation Vita, they get a copy of the game for that console for free with the PS3 version.

Any discussion of games as an art form should begin with the remarkable work of That Game Company,  a somewhat inelegantly named group that puts out remarkably elegant titles that have the ability to inspire genuine awe. This year, the company put out its magnum opus, “Journey.” On its surface, it was a simple platforming game about a lone figure wandering the desert. But at its core, it was a beautiful and involving title that redefined what could be accomplished emotionally and what a online multiplayer system could be. Now, players can pick up the “Journey Collector’s Edition” ($29.99), which also includes That Game Company’s earlier classic titles, “flOw” and “Flower.”

WII U

If you’re looking to launch a new console, you can do worse than to call upon the single most recognizable mascot in the history of the industry. “New Super Mario Bros. U” ($62.99) brings Nintendo’s most popular icon into the HD age with a traditional 2-D sidescroller that has the feel of the classics while still raising the bar on what can be done with the genre. For fans looking for a reason to upgrade to the new console, catching up on the classic exploits of everyone’s favorite plumber is as good as any.

Nintendo fans may have missed Rocksteady’s amazing 2011 title “Batman: Arkham City,” the single best superhero game ever made and a singularly epic title in every way — one that wasn’t possible on the original Wii. Now, with a new “Armored Edition” for Wii U ($59.99) gamers who have yet to soar through Gotham can do so with new touch controls, though they are more or less an interesting gimmick than an indispensable new tool.

Tags: Jeff McGinnis, PlayStation 3, Wii U, Xbox 360

This entry was posted on Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 at 12:48 pm and is filed under Star.
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This exclusive PlayStation Network game makes a distinctive gaming break from all the noise as it creates an amazing mental experience for players.

Players must “go with what they get” as “Journey” gives them an intuitive mountain-top goal amid a desert setting where intuitive interactions offer personal challenges amid epic settings. Even players without PlayStation 3 experience can latch into the controls and game goals, all explored without a crowded screen filled with icons or heads-up displays. For example, instead of a radar screen in the upper left, players find elements through subtle white silhouette visuals. Players simply move toward gaps to jump instead of hitting another button or can take a rest to contemplate their situation.

The lighting effects, visuals, art direction, musical score, sound and physics (especially movements in the sand) are superb. This essential game includes multiplayer elements and has a medium length, which might leave some players wanting more of this uniquely stunning game. Cut scenes cannot be skipped and neither should this game experience.

****, rated E for mild fantasy violence.

Tags: "Journey", Michael Siebenaler, PlayStation 3, Sony, video game review

This entry was posted on Wednesday, April 18th, 2012 at 10:00 am and is filed under Arts and Life, Video games.
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Grand Slam Tennis 2 (Electronic Arts)

“Service with a smile…as long as you’re up for the challenge.”

Electronic Arts returns to the tennis courts with the PlayStation 3 game Grand Slam Tennis 2, which really lives up to its name as players progress to all four Grand Slam tournaments, including Wimbledon – a great option available for the first time in any next generation game. Game developers work in smaller courts as well while only requiring 3 MB hard drive space. This game contains an extensive legendary player roster including McEnroe, and Borg, but needs for female players in the mix thought they do include Maria Sharapova and the Williams sisters.

This enjoyable pro tennis game simulates the sport incredibly well while offering a full court of gaming options including online (cooperative and competitive), multiplayer, career (includes 10 year career) and tournament play modes. Players can learn tennis rules as they play (best in the single player career mode), but knowing the rules already greatly reduces the learning curve.

The controls are intuitive, so players just need good anticipation skills and fast reaction times for successful gameplay. The P.R.O. AI ramps up the challenge as the backhands, lobs, and angles create a realistic experience that the valuable PlayStation Move control and of “total racket control” options expands even further with different slices, top-spins and other formidable weapons. This tennis game sequel also features ESPN and some great playable tournament moments. An excellent tennis experience especially at a newly reduced price – $29.99 in most stores now (***1/2, rated E for everyone, also available on Xbox 360 (no Kinect sensor support)).

Tags: Grand Slam Tennis, Michael Siebenaler, PlayStation 3, video game reviews

This entry was posted on Thursday, March 22nd, 2012 at 8:16 am and is filed under Arts and Life, Exclusively Online, Gaming, Star, Video Game Review.
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It was a revelation when it was first released two years ago. “Batman: Arkham Asylum,” the  best superhero game ever made at that point, told a tale of the Dark Knight as he attempted to quell a rebellion within the walls of Gotham’s infamous institution. Coupled with a great combat system, a slew of classic characters, secrets galore and genuinely gripping atmosphere, it was the Batman game people had waited years to play.

If there was one thing that could be held against “Asylum,” though, it would be that its setting was somewhat confined. Enter the sequel, “Arkham City.” Now, a massive chunk of Gotham — turned into a city-sized prison where the inmates are allowed to run wild — is the setting, giving the player an incredible amount of freedom to roam and explore.

The feeling that you are stepping into the Caped Crusader’s shoes is more powerful than ever.

The plot sees Batman traversing the city in an effort to learn the truth behind the institution’s existence, and why a madman like the villain Hugo Strange has been put in charge of it. There’s also an overriding sense of doom, aided by the returning Joker, who appears to be dying of a mysterious malady.

The original game’s excellent combat mechanics have been retained, as fights with a group of enemies flow with a grace of power and skill. Also back are all the trademark Bat-gadgets seen the first time, plus oodles more — if anything, the game may be a bit too overpopulated with gadgetry, as it’s a lot to keep up with, but man does it feel cool.

Once the main campaign is finished, “Arkham City” still provides oodles more to do. In addition to the original game’s Riddler challenges, greatly expanded in number, the game features a vast selection of side missions for a player to find.

These aren’t silly quests, either — these are full-fledged narratives featuring even more classic villains and tremendous set pieces. Players even get the chance to play as the infamous Catwoman. (Note: Unlocking Catwoman requires a pass code provided with new copies of the game.)

All told, “Batman: Arkham City” does everything a sequel to a successful game should do — it takes what was accomplished, polishes and expands it, and uses it to tell a compelling story. Fans of “Asylum” shouldn’t hesitate to snap this one up — and neither should fans of great games everywhere.

For a second opinion, I invited Toledo Free Press Star video game reviewer Michael Siebenaler to share his review:

“Batman: Arkham City,” the sequel to the 2009 video game “Batman: Arkham Asylum,” does not disappoint. It is an amazing one-player game experience with up to four profile saves. The Batman and Robin option cannot be too far away. Great additional elements include add-on content, leader boards and 3-D capability, but the real experience comes from the initial setup, characters and varied gameplay.

Players get a peek of Catwoman early in the story and then can play this counterpart character (using the included code), who basically gets a guest role in this installment. The villain encounters add nice touches, like an optional attack on the Penguin after beating his thugs. This delightful option is subtle, as developers avoided any visual cues or icons, which matches the intuitive experience. Some boss characters go down a bit too easily, but the overall challenge level is high.

Grapple, sneak, jump, eavesdrop and fly around the environments as each scenario presents different challenges and thrills. Sometimes the Dark Knight can fall off ledges from player missteps (a common gameplay frustration), but not at highly vital moments, like from the top of a tall building. The smooth enemy-to-enemy fighting lets players create smooth fisticuff sessions interrupted only when baddies get a lucky hit.

Batman gets a nice technology assist with the detective mode, which is available anytime but does not include the helpful navigation tools. This game series has now produced one of the few adapted properties where the extra materials (see the included catalog) actually enhance the experience instead of making players cringe with awkward commercialism where game developers just want more money.

Developed by Rocksteady Studios and published by Warner Bros. Interactive, this game is available on PC, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. The “Batman: Arkham City Collectors Edition” includes bonus game content, art book, music soundtrack, bonus movie, special figure and more. The Nightwing Bundle Pack is available now while the Robin Bundle Pack releases Nov. 22, which is also the release date for the PC version. A Wii U version is also planned for 2012.

Tags: Arkham Asylum, Arkham City, Batman, Catwoman, Hugo Strange, Jeff McGinnis, Joker, Michael Siebenaler, Nightwing, PC, Penguin, PlayStation 3, Pop Goes the Culture, Riddler, Robin, Rocksteady Studios, Warner Bros. Interactive, Wii U, Xbox 360

This entry was posted on Tuesday, November 8th, 2011 at 12:47 pm and is filed under Pop Goes the Culture, Star, Video games.
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“X-Men Destiny” (Activision) sets the series back with an underwhelming experience and low replay value. “X-Men: Destiny” focuses on new mutant recruits who find themselves unsettled without Professor X’s peaceful presence. The X-Men, Brotherhood, and mutant-hating humans called the Purifiers present endless characters and scenarios in a one-player story-based

format, but the limited button-mashing combat disappoints. The familiar low strategy, beat ’em up combat needs sharper graphics and fewer clipping issues — fantasy elements lessen when players constantly see objects and people unnaturally go through things. Combat puts players beside and against characters like Emma Frost, Gambit and Wolverine in massive melees where players can just wail on everything coming at them without hurting their allies. The boss fights confuse and frustrate, even in the easiest mode, especially when essential instructions come too late and players have no available energy boosts.

The options seem impressive at first, but basically do not mean much. Players get combat choices during key moments (energy projection, shadow matter or destiny control), but they do not change the story significantly. There are no online or co-operative modes, so the game depends on the story. Players cannot skip past the dialogue but can choose dialogue areas, which, unfortunately, do not change game outcomes. Character customization basically mashes character powers together for minimal variety.

Players can choose from three different difficulties (a higher difficulty usually just means more enemies) and use a radar screen to navigate and spot incoming enemies. Players can easily spot shiny places on buildings and objects to jump while helpful icons prompt special action spots like “ground pounds” to access undercover levels. Experienced players can conquer this underwhelming action game, but only big X-Men/hero and beat ’em up game fans get the biggest benefit here (PlayStation 3 review rating is **, rated T for action violence, mild language and mild suggestive themes; also available on Nintendo DS, Nintendo Wii and Xbox 360).

Tags: Nintendo, Nintendo DS, PlayStation 3, Video games, X-Men, Xbox 360

This entry was posted on Tuesday, October 4th, 2011 at 12:46 pm and is filed under Star, Video games.
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Guerilla warfare in the USA becomes a reality due to a reunited-Korean invasion in 2013 in this warfare-action video game, which also has a newly reduced price. Kim-Jong-un leads the Greater Korean Republic occupation as electronic warfare, scattered U.S. military and the overall political atmosphere weakens our defenses. This cinematic, character-driven experience aims for more emotion with taut war scenarios on our home turf.

The first-person shooter game, developed by Kaos Studios (“Frontlines: Fuel of War”) and published by THQ, centers on a poignant invasion story written by screenwriter John Milius (“Red Dawn,” “Apocalypse Now”). This military action shooter begins in Colorado, where the protagonist Robert Jacobs, a former Marine helicopter pilot, immediately finds himself in a survival situation. Even though Jacobs is recruited by a local resistance group, he quickly becomes a leader among Boone, Connor, Rianna, and Hopper, a Korean-American technical expert who creates an intriguing dynamic because his teammates discriminates against him because of his Asian heritage. Players might also find an extra emotional element similar to the Allies during World War II.

Betrayal, sacrifice and bravery all factor into the plot as characters mainly fight for survival while providing some support and completing secondary missions. Jacobs cannot take many hits, even on easier difficulty levels, but his team takes a lot of punishment, similar to the “Battlefield: Bad Company” games. Consequently, many players might adopt a “let your guys do the fighting” strategy, which does not always work. If others are yelling a lot, then it is not safe to go out into battle unless you have a specific plan.

Some violent content is overly manipulative, like a passing scene where a child sees his parents murdered. The visual textures blend well into the environment, but the character animation is still a bit rubbery. The Golden Gate Bridge action sequence represents a great graphic highlight.

This mode takes place before the U.S. military scattered. The mission-based gameplay offers 32 total players (16 on a team). Each version features seven maps with an extra “suburbs” map in the Xbox 360 version. The online pass is not required, but is definitely recommended for a noticeably expanded multiplayer gameplay. This recommended game is currently banned in South Korea and censored in Japan (***, rated M for blood, strong language and violence, also available on OnLive (North America), PC, and Xbox 360).

Tags: Homefront, PlayStation 3

This entry was posted on Tuesday, June 21st, 2011 at 5:23 pm and is filed under Star, Video games.
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“Monster Jam:  Path of Destruction” (Activision): Monster truck fans get 28 vehicles, eight authentic stadiums, 32 race events, and more than 20 freestyle events (90 seconds with possible 30 second bonus time) while having the ability to create their own monster truck. Use different strategies for events that include stunt challenges, stadium races, circuit races, time crunches and team races. No online play, but the multiplayer mode, authentic components and various stunts echo entertaining realism just like the real shows. Players must work for the rewards in career and multiplayer modes while mastering movement presents the greatest challenge. Control schemes include use of the left analog stick to steer the front wheels and the right stick to steer the rear wheels. Sharper graphics would improve the excitement, but the sound provides additional pros. Nintendo Wii and PlayStation3 versions available with Grave Digger Steering Wheel Peripheral with stickers (**1/2, rated E for mild violence, also available on Nintendo DS, PSP and Xbox 360).

“Moto GP 10/11” (Capcom): Motorcycle racing has never been better with one- and two- player modes with two to 20 player online modes. Players can record and upload their races. Green trails show if the direction, speed and other factors are “on track”. The challenging braking takes real effort — veterans of this game series have a definitce advantage in this area. The online mode includes messaging and friend invitations. Time trials have a ghost rider option while challenges offer a wide variety like slipstreaming, but the career mode provides the main appeal.Co-op play in this mode lets players take a detailed journey together involving sponsorships, reputation and other managerial elements. Game modes promote short sessions or extremely detailed experiences. For example, in world championship, play can range from a full season to a single race. The European music soundtrack pumps with energy (***, rated E, also available on Xbox 360).

“NASCAR 2011” (Activision): Improvements in vehicle damage, race logistics and proximity radar add to a highly authentic NASCAR experience for all skill levels in one- and two-player gameplay (two to 16 players online). Players can take the customization and immense options to a high level along with a limited number of “rewinds” to turn back the clock on crashes for another chance. Check the visuals for help, which include a brake indicator that shows alerts if turns are angled poorly or too fast. Game modes include career mode, race now, eliminator, invitational events, track testing and practice. Building skills and progression transfer to experience points that can lead to fun celebration burnouts and doughnuts for more bonus experience points. Look for an upcoming add-on content update with 2011 car models, paint schemes and more (***1/2, rated E for mild language, also available on Xbox 360).

Tags: Nascar, PlayStation 3, Video games

This entry was posted on Thursday, April 21st, 2011 at 6:20 am and is filed under Star, Video games.
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Even the most staunch gamers must admit that there are some emotions that video games cannot yet generate as effectively as other forms of art — at least, not yet. It’s hard to stir someone into passionate outrage by the social issues a game raises, or move them to tears by a game’s subtle depiction of a romance, though there are examples of both. My point is there are other forms of art that mine these emotional depths better, in general, than games can.

There is one thing, however, that games do better than any art form in pop culture: scare you. Ever since 1996 and the release of the first “Resident Evil” game, the genre of “survival horror” has reigned supreme as the best way to be creeped out. It’s not hard to figure out why. When you’re watching a scary movie or show, no matter how horrifying the events onscreen, they’re still happening to someone else. A game is happening to you.

One of the best examples of the genre in recent years was called “Dead Space,” released in 2008. A horror title set on a distant spaceship, the game called to mind comparisons to the “Alien” movie series, as gamers fought for their lives against a mutated race of monsters called the Necromorphs.

The game was a critical success but only modestly popular commercially, leaving the development of a sequel somewhat in doubt. Thankfully, Visceral Games still pursued a follow-up, and the result, “Dead Space 2,” was released Jan. 25 for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and PC. And, like its predecessor, it raises the bar for what is possible with a horror video game, setting new standards in visuals, story and, yes, scares.

Isaac Clarke, the hero of the first title, awakens on a space station called “The Sprawl,” located on one of Saturn’s moons. Like Ripley of the “Alien” series, he has no idea that time has passed — three years — and wakes to a new nightmarish invasion of the aliens who wreaked havoc in the first game. The basic idea remains the same — run around, fight monsters who jump out from around every corner, level up weapons and try to survive.

It’s the details that make “Dead Space 2” so special, starting with the lead character. In the first game, Clarke was practically a nonentity. We knew almost nothing about him, other than the fact that he had a girlfriend on the ship he was searching for. We barely saw his face, and he didn’t even have a voice. This time, Isaac emerges as a fully realized individual.

The character is grief-stricken over the loss of his beloved Nicole, and his exposure to the events of the previous game seems to have driven him mad. As he fights for his life, we see numerous visions of his past flash before him, as he tries to reconcile the horrors of his past with the horrors of his present. As voiced by actor Gunner Wright, the player can now more fully identify with and sympathize with Clarke. Our attachment makes the game’s scares all the more immediate.

And oh, are there scares. The developers claimed in interviews leading up to the release that there would be more of a focus on action and less on horror. While action is indeed front and center, horror is far from an afterthought. The world of the Sprawl has been fully realized as a living, breathing place, which feels totally real with plenty of nooks and crannies for monsters to jump out at you. Unlike the first game, which had a very strict structure of levels, this one feels much more organic and continuous, intensifying the feeling that there’s no place to hide.

The success of the primary campaign is the meat and potatoes of the package, but Visceral Games has provided plenty of tasty side dishes, too. Unlike the first title, “Dead Space 2” has an extensive online multiplayer mode, and for PS3 buyers, the game comes in a Limited Edition which features the excellent “Dead Space: Extraction” shooter as a bonus. That game was originally released only on the Wii, but the version available here is excellent, and plays well with either the Playstation Move or traditional controller.

Though the first “Dead Space” was a great example of what could be done with horror in games, its sequel successfully surpasses it in every way. It looks amazing, plays like a dream and feels like your worst nightmare —  in the best possible way. If you don’t like being terrified, stay away. But for everyone who loves a good scare now and then, you cannot do better than this.

E-mail Jeff at PopGoesJeff@gmail.com.

Tags: Dead Space 2, Jeff McGinnis, PlayStation 3, Pop Goes the Culture, Xbox 360

This entry was posted on Tuesday, February 1st, 2011 at 11:03 am and is filed under Pop Goes the Culture, Star.
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The Sims 3 (Electronic Arts)

Electronic Arts modifies its popular PC game series “The Sims 3” for console and the Nintendo DS. This immense simulation experience allows wide exploration among a complete community. The visuals, music, sound effects and famous nonsense Sim character dialogue (aka “Simlish”) enhance the experience while keeping the mood light and restful. The console-exclusive karma powers shape goals and action scenarios. These powers give a quick boost or reduce progress. This unpredictability adds even more dynamic gameplay, which also includes character wishes and challenges. As always, players can explore the neighborhood as they develop traits including mental, physical and social as well as skills including athletics, charisma, logic, handiness and painting.

The Nintendo DS version is set in Beacon Bay and is adapted for right and left handed players. The stylus works much better than the control pad for camera navigation. Players can begin with a tutorial, create-a-Sim mode, or start in a pre-made household situation. The menus can be hard to navigate and home improvement changes could have been easier, but this handheld version packs enough gameplay and fun scenarios to negate most vices. The karma powers add clues and puzzle elements that players can explore and discover as their character and gain special advantages that save time. Players can eventually earn a reward of lifetime happiness and enjoy the best advantage in this version — not dying. Characters go to the hospital and players funds are reduced a bit when basic needs are not met (***, rated E for comic mischief and mild suggestive themes).

The PlayStation 3 version offers enhanced gameplay with online options and great graphics. Set in Moonlight Bay, players can begin by creating a Sim, choosing household or moving into an existing household. Players can find more skills than the Nintendo DS version, plus players can make customized items in My Studio and download other players’ creations in The Exchange, which saves setup time. Players can also buy items in The Store (***1/2 rated T for crude humor, sexual themes and violence).

A Nintendo 3DS version is coming March 27. The Sims 3 is also available on the Mac, Nintendo Wii, PC, Xbox 360 and Windows Phone.

Tags: Nintendo DS, PlayStation 3, Video games SIms

This entry was posted on Tuesday, February 1st, 2011 at 10:55 am and is filed under Star, Video games.
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