Showing posts with label Wii. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Wii. Show all posts
Games of August 2011
August is here the middle of the summer, it's hot outside, and the dry season for gaming. You may be wondering if there are any upcoming games that could be your summer salvation. Worry not my friend because today I have a list for you highlighting some of the best games of August. These games will help keep you nice and cool indoors and will quench your gamer thirst.
Platform: PS3
Release Date: 8/3
Publisher: NIS America
The latest video game iteration of the popular anime series Bleach has finally been released on current gen consoles in glorious HD. Bleach: Soul Resureccion is a hack n' slash game with loads of fan service. If you're a fan of the anime Bleach and/or a fan of the hack n' slash style of the Dynasty Warriors series you owe it to yourself to check this game out. If you're still on the fence or need more information check out our Bleach: Soul Resurreccion review
Platform: Xbox LIVE
Release Date: 8/3
Publisher: Fuelcell Games
Interesting name for an interesting game. Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet is a visually stunning game with exploration elements reminiscent of Metroid's style of gameplay. The game also features boss fights, power ups, and a multiplayer mode.
El Shaddai: Ascension of the Metatron
Platform: PS3, Xbox 360
Release Date: 8/16
Publisher: Ignition Entertainment
El Shaddai: Ascension of the Metatron is one of the lesser hyped titles this year. It's combination of being visually unique and a "God of War" style combat will hopefully merge into a great game. Below is a new trailer that shows off it's art style, gameplay, and story. The demo is available on the PSN and Xbox LIVE if any gamer is curious to see what this title will have to offer.
Platform: PS3
Release Date: 8/16
Publisher: Konami
PS3 owners finally get to experience No More Heroes which was previously a Wii exclusive. You play as Travis Touchdown an anti-hero otaku assassin that wields a beam sword as a weapon. The game being very stylish over the top makes no apologies, it just has fun with it's insanity, and because of that is very fun to play. The PS3 version has some extra features including: HD graphics, move support, gameplay improvements, and new modes.
Age of Empires Online
Platform: PC
Release Date: 8/16
Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios
The Age of Empires series are traditionally historical real-time strategy games. Although they aren't entirely historically accurate they are always a lot of fun. Age of Empires Online will play similarly to previous titles with the addition of a persistent online world. A blending of RTS with MMO shapes a unique gameplay experience.
From Dust
Platform: PC, Xbox LIVE, PSN
Release Date: 8/17
Publisher: Ubisoft
From Dust has been described by Ubisoft as the spiritual heir to Populous. The game is structured as a series of missions where you must protect and lead your tribe to survive and prosper against the elements of nature. Thankfully you are able to manipulate aspects of the environment such as shaping the land or moving water. From Dust has already been released on Xbox LIVE and will be available on PS3 sometime later this year.
Platform: PC, PS3, Xbox 360
Release Date: 8/23
Publisher: Square Enix
Deus Ex: Human Revolution is one of the most anticipated titles of the year. The game is a mixture of first and third person shooter with RPG elements. You have the freedom to play the game multiple ways. You can go all out guns blazing, take a more stealthy approach, or any combination of the two.
Street Fighter III: Third Strike Online Edition
Platform: PS3, Xbox 360
Release Date: 8/23
Publisher: Capcom
The classic fighter returns with a HD remake. It features an online mode that was not available in previous releases, a new tournament mode, hundreds of challenges, YouTube uploading in-game, and extra unlocks.
Platform: 3DS
Release Date: 8/23
Publisher: Atlus Co.
Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor Overclocked is a 3DS enhanced port of the DS version of the game. This deep RPG has been praised for it's combat system and branching story. Overclocked adds improvements over the original release with voiced dialogue for the main characters in the game and a new epilogue chapter titled The 8th Day.
Platform: PS3, Xbox 360
Release Date: 8/30
Publisher: Majesco Games
BloodRayne: Betrayal is a downloadable 2D side scrolling hack and slash adventure game with 15 stages to enjoy. You play as Rayne a dhampir (half human, half vampire) who is as deadly as she is sexy. This game has also been announced to be released on Xbox LIVE, but not until October 5th.
Platform: PC, PS3, Xbox 360
Release Date: 8/30
Publisher: Codemasters
Bodycount is a FPS developed by the same team that developed Black and is considered a spiritual successor to it. One of best things that set this game apart from other FPS titles is that nearly everything in the environment is destructible. It also includes what you would expect from these titles TDM, Co-op, and a shotgun.
Platform: PS3, Xbox 360, PSP, Wii
Release Date: 8/30
Publisher: EA Sports
Madden 2012 was close to being delayed due to the NFL lockout, but now that issue has been resolved and fans can rejoice. With a revised tackling system and a better management system, this could be one of EA's best Madden releases in awhile. Hopefully online play won't be too hard to manage with the inclusion of EA's Season Pass being available.
Platform: PC
Release Date: 8/30
Publisher: Kalypso
Take control as El Presidente the lovable dictator of the banana republic island. Tropico 4 like previous titles is a city building and political simulation game. The series has a very loyal fan base that have been highly anticipating this games release.
August has a nice variety of upcoming games that will make just about any type of gamer happy. Post in the comments below some of your most anticipated releases for August. As the games are released check back on GamersGameplay for the reviews. Hope you enjoyed the Games of August be sure to check back soon for the upcoming games of September!
Top 10 Hottest Game Girls This Gen
Many good things have come with this generation in gaming so far. Powerful new consoles with great graphics, motion gaming, and of course... hot female game characters. Here is my list for the best girls to kick ass in video games in the past five years, in no particular order. Warning: Some videos may contain slight spoilers.
Poison Ivy has always been a hot villain in the Batman comics, but her revision in the recent video game really brought her to life, in my opinion. She uses her powers to seduce the guards of the asylum and forces them to protect her from the caped crusader. It's a shame you can't just make nice with her instead of hurling batarangs at her for five minutes. Her leafy underwear is a nice touch too.
Selvaria is a Valkyrur, a nearly extinct race of God-like warriors. She has devoted her life and undying loyalty to Maximillian, an Imperial Prince looking to take over Gallia. With lance and shield in hand, she a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield. She prides herself as a warrior above all else, and doesn't use her sexuality to her advantage. But she sure as hell could if she tried.
The Beauties from MGS4 aren't really thought about anymore when the topic of hot game girls comes up, but they should. All of them are based off real models, and Laughing Octopus is my personal favorite. Each of them are unique boss fights and homage to MGS1 battles. They are also some of the best looking character models in games today.
Sylvia is the epitome of sexy in the video game world. She's hot, has a french accent and dresses in skimpy outfits. She's also a yoga master. She uses all this to her advantage to get Travis to do whatever she wants, and no matter how much she pisses him off along the way, he still wants a piece of her. Downward $#*%ing dog!
Uncharted 2 is popular for many reasons. Amazing graphics, epic action scenes, and interesting and entertaining characters. Two of those characters happen to be attractive females. Elena and Chloe are both hot in their own ways, and it was hard to decide between the two. I don't know how Nathan did it. Elena is the type of girl you'd want to bring home to meet the family. She's got the whole "girl next door" thing going on, but Chloe has the exotic and mysterious look down. She's the type you wouldn't want to necessarily bring home to meet the parents, but you'd love to take her to a hotel. That, and she's good with a rocket launcher. Sorry Elena, I still heart you.
Sure, she plays a pretty minor role in Devil May Cry 4, but that doesn't change the fact that she's incredibly hot. There's just something about a girl with big guns and an itch to hunt demons. It would be nice to see her make the cut for Marvel vs Capcom 3, but it probably won't happen. Oh well, as long as she doesn't get put in the DMC reboot as a drug addict, I'll be fine.
Heavenly Sword was one of the best action games available during the early days of PS3. The graphics and and animations were great, the combat was fun, and the main character was hot. What more could you want? Nariko battles her way through the game wearing a half toga, practically. A woman warrior in a mans' world, she made playing through the game a pleasure with her fighting style and her exotic look. She doesn't flaunt her sexuality, but just her ability to endure everything thrown her way makes her one of the hottest females in video games.
Myuria doesn't really need an explaination as to why she's on here. Just look at her. A somewhat promiscuous and scantily clad elf, who also happens to be very well endowed. She's also pretty badass when it comes to magic. The developers of Star Ocean did a really good job with physics when it comes to her character model, too. Just sayin'.
Samus has been a video game icon for female game characters ever since the NES days. She's never really been viewed as sexy until this generation, though. She has always been a strong, gender-less character without her sexuality ever showing. That was until her Zero Suit character model came into this generation. Critics were torn about Other M making her too much of a "girl", while others were busy looking for dirty pictures of her online. With Team Ninja's track record though, they could have done a lot worse with her. Either way, she's hot, and she is still as tough as she always has been. You gotta' love her, and she will most likely always be one of the hottest game characters of all time.
After going through this list, most people should expect at least one of the FFXIII girls on here. All three of the main female characters from it have every right to be on this list, but it came down to personal preference. Lightning is strong, heroic, and somewhat emo. My kind of girl. She doesn't have the sexy amazoness look like Fang, and she's not half naked like Vanille. But she's my favorite, nonetheless.
Well, there you have it. The top ten lovely ladies of this generation. Please keep in mind that this is my personal opinion. I know I don't have Miranda from Mass Effect 2 on here. Her face is ugly, get over it. On that note, please feel free to comment any opinions or anyone you think should have made the list in place of others. I'd be happy to hear any feedback and I'm interested to hear other opinions.
Best Upcoming Games for January 2011
First quarter 2011 is going to be an exciting time for us gamers. A lot of the most anticipated titles for 2011 are coming out the first quarter. Since there are so many great games coming out in that short amount of time, I'll break it down for you month by month. That will give some breathing room to fully appreciate each title, and give you a glance at games you might have missed. So lets get started with the best games coming out January 2011 in order of release date.
Venetica
Platforms: PC, 360, PS3
Release Date: 1-4-2011
Publisher: Atari
Venetica has already been released in Europe in 2009 and overall has
gotten some high praise from critics. Most of them that did mark points
off did so because of glitches that were patched later. Others were
disappointed because they were expecting the game to be something it's
not. For it's US release it's definitely flying under the radar, with
no advertising or information on it. It's worth checking out if you are
interested in a light action RPG with a good story. It's also nice
that the game is being released with a lower price point $29.99 for PC
and $39.99 for 360/PS3.
Platform: Wii
Release Date: 1-4-2011
Publisher: Hudson Soft
Lost in Shadow is a 2D platform game with it's own unique style. You play as a shadow of a boy traversing a large tower. Being a shadow you're only able to interact with other shadows as you make your way through the game. Thankfully you have a Spangle (a fairy like creature) to help you alter the light source moving the shadows around. The game also has combat, puzzles, and some 3D elements to it. If you have a Wii and are looking for something different it's worth a look.
Prinny 2: Dawn of Operation panties, Dood!
Platform: PSP
Release Date: 1-11-2011
Publisher: NIS America
Prinny 2 much like the first game is a 2D hack and slash platform game. It's a spin off game from the Disgaea series, so if you're a fan of those games you'll be able to appreciate this one too. With it's crazy humor it's not a game that takes itself seriously. You play as a prinny (a demon exploding penguin) that serves Etna the current ruler of the underworld (just while Laharl sleeps). Etna is in a fit of rage because someone stole her panties. It's up to you and your 1,000 prinny buddies to get it back. If you liked the first game you'll enjoy Prinny 2 even more. It improves on the first game adding more of what you like and new features.
Platforms: PS3, PC
Release Date: 1-11-2011
Publisher: Sony Online Entertainment
DC Universe Online is an action MMO set in the DC world. If your a fan of DC comics, movies, or characters this game is for you. The game is full of fanservice; being able to fight with or against your favorite super heroes and villains is every fans dream. If your not a fan of DC, but enjoy action MMO's, you might want to check this one out too.
Kingdom Hearts Re:Coded
Platform: DS
Release Date: 1-11-2011
Publisher: Square Enix
Kingdom Hearts Re:Coded is a remake/port of the mobile phone game Kingdom Hearts Coded. The story takes place after the events of Kingdom Hearts 2, and is mainly episodic. The story also ties in with the latest Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep. If you're a fan of the series and have a DS you're more than likely going to pick this one up. If you're not a fan of the series and own a DS you should check into it. Kingdom Hearts is a quality RPG series that mixes together the worlds of Disney and Square Enix.
Platform: PS3 (already released for 360/PC)
Release Date: 1-18-2011
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Mass Effect 2 is a sci-fi RPG action game that has received much praise and rave reviews. Although it didn't win the VGA's game of the year, I'm sure a lot of people consider this to be their GOTY. If you're just getting into the series now would be a good time. The PS3 version comes with an interactive comic that catches you up to speed from the events of the first game. Even better, the decisions that you make in that comic help shape the events of the second game. So if you haven't played the first game, no worries it'll be like you did. The PS3 version also comes with all of the DLC for more bang for the buck. Now PS3 owners can get ready for the highly anticipated Mass Effect 3 releasing Q4 2011.
Platform: PS3
Release Date: 1-18-2011
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment
The highly anticipated sequel to the innovative LittleBigPlanet series will be out in January. Originally LBP2 had a release date of November 2010 and it got pushed back. A lot of fans were disappointed hearing that news (myself included) but now the wait is almost over. The game is shaping up really nicely going by the beta footage. LBP2 has been called not a platform game, but a platform for games. Just about any type of game you can think of is able to be created in LBP2. Check out my Little Big Planet Beta Preview to see what I mean.
Platforms: 360, PS3
Release Date: 1-18-2011
Publisher: Square Enix
Mindjack is a 3rd person sci-fi multiplayer shooter. Much like Demon's Souls the single player and multiplayer experience are seamlessly mixed together. In Mindjack your able to hack into someone's mind and take control of them. Not just people either, your also able to hack into robots, animals with guns, and bosses. If your interesting in finding out more, check out the Mindjack is like a Sci-Fi Demon's Souls article I did recently.
Platform: DS
Release Date: 1-18-2011
Publisher: PopCap games
Platforms: PC, 360, PS3
Release Date: 1-25-2011
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Dead Space 2 is a survival horror 3rd person shooter set in outer space. The survival horror genre has been a bit stale lately. Most of them now play more like action games, and aren't very scary. The first Dead Space really surprised me and turned out to be a great game. It had good atmosphere for a horror game, it kept me on edge. I wasn't sure when or how many Necromorphs were going to jump out at me. I got the chance to play the multiplayer in Dead Space 2, and it's a nice addition. Being able to control the Necromorphs and stalking my prey was good fun. If your looking for a survival horror game in January this is it.
Platforms: PC, 360, PS3
Release Date: 1-25-2011
Publisher: SouthPeak Interactive
If your craving an open world fantasy RPG, and you just can't wait for Skyrim, you might want to check out Two Worlds 2. I know what you might be thinking "no thanks, the first Two Worlds sucked". You'd be right too, the consensus on the first Two Worlds wasn't so great. Don't worry though Two Worlds 2 is looking much improved. It's already been released in Europe and has gotten good reviews. If you like these types of games you owe it to yourself to at least look into it, you may be surprised. As soon as I'm able to get a demo of TW2 I'll post impressions, until then check out this video.
Platform: PSP
Release Date: 1-25-2011
Publisher: Square Enix
This game to me seems like a more crazy Square Enix version of Monster Hunter. I got a chance to play the Japanese demo and I enjoyed it. You can play online with up to 3 other players, and battle mythical beasts. Your able to do flashy finishing blows and QTE during battle. Your also able to fight and summon popular Square Enix monsters like Bahamut. If your looking for a good action RPG for your PSP this January you might want to check this game out.
Sorcery for the PS3 Move is supposedly coming out in January as well. I'll keep you updated on that, and any other big games coming out soon. Well, that about does it for January. I honestly don't know how I'm going to keep from going broke. Especially when February and March aren't letting up on the amazing releases. Be sure to check back next month for the upcoming games of February, it's even crazier than January. What are some of your most anticipated games coming out in January? Be sure to post them in the comments.
Best Samurai Games this Generation
Sometimes it seems that there aren't enough games about samurai. Most games these days are all about giving you a gun and want you to shoot something. While games with guns are great, and probably the most popular type of game, sometimes you crave something a little different. There is nothing else like having a sword to cut down your foe. Samurai games might not be nearly as popular as shooters, but that doesn't make them any less fun. I've gathered for you today some of the best samurai games this generation has to offer.
Way of the Samurai 3 for the 360/PS3 is one of the best samurai based games ever made. It's a shame that this game didn't get well received in the West having mediocre and lackluster reviews. I'll admit it's not a game I can recommend to everyone, but if your looking for a great samurai game, this is it. You have to be able to look past a few flaws, and maybe it lacks polish in some areas, but this game is truly a gem.
It's set in the Sengoku period you play as a samurai that was injured in battle and lost his memory. If you're familiar with the previous Way of the Samurai games you'll have a good idea how this one plays. You're able to directly influence the way the story is shaped with 22 different endings. The game encourages you to play multiple times and try things differently. You are rewarded with loads of different weapons, costumes, techniques, and things to unlock. All of which will carry over on your next playthroughs. This is a game that no samurai fan should miss out on.
You're able to pull off a lot of different moves and combos based on how you swing the Wii remote. One of my favorites is being able to hit the enemy up into the air, jump up, and air combo them. The better you perform you're rewarded with more money that you can use to purchase upgrades such as: new sword techniques, powers, or purchase new guns. If you own a Wii be sure to check this one out, you'll be glad you did.
Afro Samurai for the 360/PS3 is loosely based off the manga and anime series. If your a fan of the manga or anime you probably already own this game, or you at least played it. If you aren't familiar with Afro Samurai check it out, you might be surprised. This game didn't score too well with reviews and critics, but that doesn't make it a bad game. Sure it has it's problems, like: the story could have been explained better, fighting the camera is no fun, it could have used a little more polish, and the boss fights could have been better. A couple of months after the games release, there was a patch that added some tweaks, and bug fixes that addressed some of those problems.
To me those were minor issues that don't take away from the enjoyment of the game, especially now that you can pick it up cheap. Be sure to download the demo for Afro Samurai, and play it for a few minutes, you'll see that it's actually really fun. If your looking for a hack and slash game where you can be a badass samurai with lots of blood, and body parts flying off, then this is your game.
Sengoku BASARA Samurai Heroes for the PS3/Wii is an action adventure samurai game similar to the Samurai Warriors or Dynasty Warriors type of game. What makes this game different from similar games (and better in my opinion) is that it's made by Capcom. Who else other than the great minds at Capcom would bring you a samurai that wields 6 swords at once? You can also tell that the game has that Capcom polish, style, and knack for making something over the top all over it.
I really enjoyed the story of the game, each character has multiple paths to take, and endings to see. I also had fun leveling up the characters, unlocking their special moves, and getting better weapons. Sadly, it doesn't have online multiplayer, but it does offer local. Playing split screen with friends was a blast. I encourage you to check out the demo to see what you think, but don't solely base your opinion off of that. I didn't really care for the demo too much, but I really enjoy this game, and I think you samurai fans will too.
Upcoming games with samurai goodness:
Way of the Samurai 4 has been announced for the PS3. There aren't many details out on it yet, and no release date has been revealed. I'll be keeping watch, and keep you updated.
Shogun 2: Total War is a war strategy game coming out for the PC on March 15, 2011. This one is looking really good, I'll be sure to post impressions once I get my hands on the game, or a demo of it.
Samurai games I want to be made:
Ryū ga Gotoku Kenzan! - I know this game is already out, but I want them to bring it over to the West. This is a game that really needs to be translated, it really is an amazing samurai game.
Shogun 2: Total War is a war strategy game coming out for the PC on March 15, 2011. This one is looking really good, I'll be sure to post impressions once I get my hands on the game, or a demo of it.
Samurai games I want to be made:
Onimusha 5 - come on Capcom, make it happen! You know you want to!
Bushido Blade 3 - I have a lot of fond memories playing part 1 and 2 on the Playstation. Hopefully Square Enix will make part 3, or a spiritual successor.
Ryū ga Gotoku Kenzan! 2 - If your not going to translate the first Kenzan and bring it to the West, at least make a part 2 and translate it. Really though, any open world samurai game with a great story, and nice combat will do.
New Samurai Showdown game - Preferably a 2D fighting one, those are my favorite. I really liked part 4 a lot and I would like to see a new one with the quality of BlazBlue. A 3D one would be fine too, just make sure it doesn't suck like the last one.
Genji 3 - The first one for PS2 was really good, and the second one for PS3 wasn't that great. They have a lot of great ideas with the Genji games, I just hope they make a 3rd one to show everyone.
I hope you enjoyed reading, that's it for now, let me know what you guys think. What are some of your favorite samurai games? Also, what type of samurai game do you wish someone would make? Be sure to post your comments below. If your interested in seeing what last gen had to offer for samurai games check out: Best Samurai Games for PS2
Most Underappreciated Games of 2010
There were a lot of awesome games released this year, some were critically acclaimed, while others were ripped apart. It's true that some games this year were deserving of harsh criticism, but there were also some that get picked apart for the smallest most insignificant details. Here's a list of a few games that are the latter.
 |
| I heard what you said about me. |
Although it didn't receive terrible reviews, (mostly mid 7s to 8s) Metroid: Other M caused an uproar with a lot of people. Heavily criticized for the less-than-mediocre story, and Samus' overall personality portrayed in this game, people were turned off of this title quickly. What those people failed to realize was, this game is still Metroid.
Metroid never had a deep story, or much character development at all. It's always been about killing space pirates and getting new powers to traverse and platform your way through the game. All of those elements are fully intact here, and in my opinion, they're done really well. Along with the standard shooting, there are also finishing moves you can pull off against most enemies that add some cinematics to combat.
The only complaint I found here gameplay-wise, was the game is a bit easy. Other than that, it's a solid experience that deserves a chance. There have been complaints about the auto-targeting system, as well as going into first-person view to use your missiles, but neither of these are even close to as bad as people make it up to be. All games have their own quirks, most would call them a learning curve, and that's all they amount to in this game, so get over it and give it a shot.
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| The Lords of Shadow don't stand a chance. |
The Castlevania series hasn't exactly held its own against the bigger names in the 3D action genre. In fact, it's been struggling to even make itself a known contender. On N64, 3D Castlevania was just horrendous. On PS2, they were above average, but with games like Devil May Cry and God of War, it was easily overlooked. But now, in this generation of consoles, I must say Castlevania is back up there, where it belongs.
Sure, Lords of Shadow feels a bit like God of War, with quick-time events during boss segments, and basic combos being utilized in a similar way. You also get magical powers and items that allow you to reach areas you previously were not able to. Honestly though, what action game these days DOESN'T have all these features? And I hate to break it to you, but God of War 3 plays too much like God of War. Yeah, I said it.
If you want to get technical about which games play too much like what... Castlevania: Lament of Innocence and Devil May Cry were released before the first God of War, which both had most of the gameplay elements used throughout the GoW series. Lords of Shadow is an amazing rebirth of Castlevania, with a hefty list of combos and abilities. There's alot of replay value to be had in this game, more than other games in the genre, so give it a shot. You won't be sorry.
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| Yup. Fang is badass. |
These decisions in the game design kept more focus on progressing through the story, and character development. It also kept people from grinding experience, ensuring that players would not be able to just breeze through all the fights with an overleveled party. I know, an RPG that's actually challenging at times, how absurd! I just want to kill everything in one turn! FFXIII SUCKS! No, it doesn't, you do. You have plenty of opportunity after the end of the game to grind, explore, and do side missions until your hearts content.
The battle system in Final Fantasy XIII is fast paced and simple, but complex in its simplicity as you progress and go up against tougher fights. Many people didn't get far enough in the game to realize there's actual strategy to the game and your party setup. Instead, they complained about it being too easy to just use the "auto-battle" option, essentially spamming the X button for fights. I'm pretty sure you do that in most RPGs, for the hundreds of thousands of random battles you get into. So what's the problem? Final Fantasy XIII is a good RPG, with GORGEOUS graphics, I must add. Shut up and stop hating it because it's the cool thing to do.
There's a few more games I can list here. Battlefield: Bad Company 2 and Darksiders come to mind, but they weren't so much criticized as they were just overlooked by the masses. Still, these games are worth a playthrough if you're a fan of the genre. Too many people pay attention to nit-picky elitist opinions and not enough to actual fun-factor. These are sad times, indeed.
Budget Games for the Holidays!
With the holidays coming up, money is an issue when it comes to purchasing games. It can be tough forking out 60 bucks for a game, whether it be a present for yourself or someone else. Luckily, there are quite a few cheap games on all systems.
If you own a Wii, and you like fighting games, there's really no other choice out there for you. A cast of 28 characters, some you know and love, and some I'm sure you've never heard of before. With Capcom's brand of 2D fighters, this game offers endless fun. 
Take on the role of Travis Touchdown; an otaku badass armed with a beam saber, fighting your way through the ranks to become the #1 assassin. With lots of NES inspired mini-games, and an anime style, this game is one of the best action titles the Wii has to offer.
A definite contender for Game of the Year, this game offers an amazing sci-fi adventure with a unique cast of characters and awesome storytelling. With both RPG and 3rd person shooter gameplay elements, and multiple outcomes to both the story and your characters' abilities, this game is well worth the price of admission.
Dante's Inferno (360, PS3)- Average price: $29.99
Go to hell. Literally, that's what you do in this game. See what I did there? Anyway, if God of War style action-adventure is your thing, then this might be for you, because it basically ripped off everything that makes GoW what it is. But even so,
it's a decent game. It's short, so rent it or get it used if possible.
Anyone who's a fan of the last-gen Prince games, or just has an itch to play a decent action game with lots of platforming and hordes of enemies should look into this game. It's not bad at all, but I'd say try to rent it, or shop around to get it as cheap as possible, since it's another short one.
Blazblue: Continuum Shift (360, PS3)- Average price: $29.99-$39.99
An awesome anime styled 2D fighting game, with heavy focused on performing combos. There's an interesting story mode and very unique characters. Made by the same people who created the Guilty Gear series, it's a very worthy alternative to Super Street Fighter 4. Also, I'll pwn you with Hakumen :)
Welcome back to Rapture! If immersing first person shooters, with unique weapons and powers is your thing, then this is for you. Though criticized for not innovating enough over the original, Bioshock 2 is still worth a go around and a very good value.
If you happened to miss out on playing Resident Evil 5 when it was initially released, now is a good time to pick it up. With a shiny new package and some added content, RE5 has more replay than ever. Now go kill some african zombie-like.. things. Yeah! 
With all the hype that came with the new Medal of Honor and Call of Duty: Black Ops, some gamers on a budget might be seeking a similiar experience with a lower price tag. This game is your answer. The multiplayer is really fun. With destructible environments and vehicles, a lot of players prefer this title over Call of Duty games.
Bayonetta (360, PS3)- Average price: $19.99Sexy, Stylish, and over the top action. Fans of the Devil May Cry series will find everything they want in this game. Tons of epic boss battles, a variety of weapons to unlock, and multiple difficulties, Bayonetta offers an insane amount of replay value. Definitely worth buying.
Just Cause 2 (360, PC, PS3)- Average price: $19.99(PC) $39.99(Consoles)
If you're looking for a great sandbox game to get into this year, this is it. Just Cause 2 has everything you could ask for in an open world. An absurd amount of missions, lots of weapons and vehicles at your disposal (including jets!) You can invest a ridiculous amount of time in this game.
Darksiders (360, PS3)- Average price: The world is coming to an end. The apocalypse is here. What are you gonna do about it? Well, you could go pick this game up while there's still time. You play as War, one of the Four Horsemen. Darksiders offers a perfect mix of Zelda style dungeons and puzzles and God of War combat, all put together in a post apocalyptic setting.
This game is simply gorgeous. Easily one of the best looking multi-platform games to come out, and one of my personal favorite rpg's. With a new, fast paced battle system and awesome character development, Final Fantasy XIII is well worth giving a chance.
Super Street Fighter 4 (360, PS3)- Average price: $39.99If fighting games are your thing, and you don't own this game... well, you're a wierdo. This is the definitive fighting game to have. Highly competitive online modes and an increased roster from the original Street Fighter 4, most game libraries should have this title included in them.
Alan Wake (360)- Average price: $19.99-$29.99
This highly ambitious survival horror game didn't quite meet everyones expectations. But it does manage to offer some very innovative ideas to the genre. If you like struggling to survive and using light as a weapon, check it out. Alan Wake is a short game, however. Possibly rent.
Splinter Cell: Conviction (360, PC)- Average price: $19.99-$29.99The latest title in the Splinter Cell series. This is your best option if you're looking for stealth and espionage, and don't have a PS3. SC: Conviction has great graphics, improved gameplay over the previous titles, and offers enjoyable co-op and other online modes.
Yeah this is a full price game, but for all you get in this package, saying it's worth the price is an understatement. With all the dlc included in this already huge rpg, along with the expansion, you can easily invest over a hundred hours fighting darkspawn and having sex with your teammates.
Borderlands: Game of the Year Edition (360, PC, PS3)- Average price: $49.99-$59.99Another full price game, and another great value. Borderlands is one of the best co-op experiences this generation has to offer. With being able to customize your characters' abilities, on top of all the random loot available, (literally millions of weapons) Borderlands is one of the most addictive games I've ever played. Definite must-buy.
One of the most unique experiences out there, Demon's Souls is an action rpg that will punish you over and over again. But like a sucker for punishment, you'll keep going back, and eventually even get good at the game. With its high difficulty, it's both frustrating and VERY rewarding. There really is no other game like it.
Lost Planet 2 (360, PC, PS3)- Average price: $19.99-$39.99Although it received mixed reviews, Lost Planet 2 offers a challenging and unique experience. It has epic boss battles, tons of weapons, giant aliens, mechs, grappling hooks and pretty much anything else you can think of. If you can find it for a decent price, I'd say it's well worth it.
Yeah, I know. This game didn't come out this year. Even so, it's really worth owning. If all the other games on this list seem kind of bland to you, and you crave something different, this is it. Its story deals heavily on the impact of war, and the gameplay is a mix of third person shooter and turn based strategy. Valkyria Chronicles is a gem, and a breath of fresh air, in the mix of all the shooters and action games swarming the industry.
Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots (PS3)- Average price: $19.99
Of course MGS4 will be on the list. It's the finale to one of the most popular series' out there. You owe it to yourself to find out how everything turns out. Even though it's over two years old now, it still remains one of the best games on the system.
If you don't already own Uncharted 2 for some ungodly reason, now is the perfect time. The GOTY edition is only $10 more than the regular version and comes with all the DLC added to make the already amazing game, even more amazing. Seriously, go buy this. Now. Go. There you have it. What are you waiting for? With all these great games, I think you have some shopping to do. Get your ass out there!
