• 25Sep 12

  Torchlight 2 Review

  I have Mixed opinions on this game and I'm sure that is clear in the review. Anyway, read it and rate it up if you like it:

  In what I'm sure was a calculated effort, Runic Games played things very safe in making this game. Torchlight 2 is likely the least innovative sequel I've ever played. There is nothing really new, but everything that was in the original is back in spades. For people who can't get enough loot and level, there will be plenty to enjoy. For people who have not historically enjoyed the Torchlight or Diablo, there really isn't any effort to draw you in.
  
  For me, I have enjoyed the game so far. The near constant leveling and loot collecting are fun. I find the game to be very easy on the normal mode, being able to just hold right mouse on many bosses to defeat them. However, trying the harder difficulties, I found the game to be annoying as enemies health get bigger and they take longer to kill, but they do not require any additional strategy (i.e. I used the same attacks to kill them). If I am mentally fatigued from a stressful day, the simplicity of advancing in Torchlight 2 can be cathartic. In my mind, the game fails to be anything more though. All the thinking is in which loot to wear and skills to use, but once you're set up, the actual gameplay is stupidly simple and the story is a throw-away.
  
  In summary, Torchlight 2 is a known quantity. Since there is nothing really new or drastically different, it is near impossible that Runic will offend any of the series fans. On the other hand, it also is impossible that this game will impress anyone who cared less for Torchlight/Diablo/etc. Torchlight 2 is not ambitious, innovative, or inspiring. It is however, consistent, reliable, and safe. It it not the type of game for a hot fling, but one many people could happily be married to for quite a long time. Your enjoyment will vary based on which type of game you're looking for.
  
  Link for Rating.

  • Posted Sep 25, 2012 8:03 pm GMT
  • Category: Games
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• 9Jul 12

  Spelunky

  I'm having a lot of trouble deciding wether I love or hate this game. Spelunky was released for the XBLA on July 4th and I downloaded it last weekend and have spent a good amount of time playing it. The problem I have is that the game is VERY HARD. Sometimes it is to the point of being incredibly annoying.

  Let me explain. The dungeons in Spelunky are random, so sometimes you have a comparatively easy time progressing. However, sometimes, it really feels like the game decided to cheat you. You might come through a door to be instantly exposed to a trap or shops will be inaccessible when they finally spawn. Although the game does get easier as you learn it secrets, it is heartbreaking to be on a good run and have it ruined by an overly-difficult random happening.

  The upside to this is that every accomplishment you make feels earned. I've only made it to the 3rd level a couple times, there are four plus at least 3 secret levels, but I've had fun. Since the levels are random, there seems to be infinite replay value, if you enjoy it. I guess the secret to the game is to take it lightly. If you're too serious about it you will end up throwing the controller.

  • Posted Jul 9, 2012 11:25 am GMT
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• 26Jun 12

  Mass Effect 3 Extended Cut

  It isn't out yet for my PC version, but Xbox 360 players have posted videos of the new extended endings. The new options don't change the endings, but they do show you the difference between your choices and how it changes the galaxy. I know that at this point, many people will still find reason to dislike it, but if these were the original endings, I would have been happy with it. Even though the only difference might be a few still images, I can't wait to see the true ending for my own game. I think I may also be convinced to play through the whole thing again. Am I convinced enough to buy the next Bioware game? ... maybe... It is Dragon Age 3, so they have a lot more to fix (or unfix) there. We'll see.

  • Posted Jun 26, 2012 8:03 am GMT
  • Category: Games
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