CAGcast #226: Amazballs

[CheapyD]

15060[/IMG-L]The gang talks 3DS, PSP2, Two Worlds II, Xbox 360 2011 exclusives and so much more!

135
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Show Linkage/Notes (click the button below to expand):
Intro - Tron Legacy: The Grid

New Releases 1/23-1/29 (http://tech-gaming.com/2011/01/21/new-releases-114-1120.aspx)


Report: Infinity Ward co-developing Modern Warfare 3 with Sledgehammer Games, Raven Software (http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/report-infinity-ward-co-developing-modern-warfare-3-with-sledge/)
Did The Creators of Call of Duty Delay A Map Pack To Help Out The Competition? [Call Of Duty: Legal Warfare] (http://feeds.gawker.com/%7Er/kotaku/full/%7E3/Y1EvruSpoYk/did-the-creators-of-call-of-duty-delay-a-map-pack-to-help-out-the-competition)
Bizarre Creations on the Verge of Closing (http://www.shacknews.com/onearticle.x/67180)

PSP2 Reportedly To Feature Touch-Sensitive OLED Screen, 3G Connectivity (http://feedproxy.google.com/%7Er/MultiplayerBlog/%7E3/5XwxhLXQRMw/)
PSP2 as powerful as PS3, set for Q4 launch (http://feedproxy.google.com/%7Er/mcvuk/oXMK/%7E3/l8Vd2IHaGAM/PSP2-as-powerful-as-PS3-set-for-Q4-launch)
Smedley: DC Universe Online is SOE's fastest seller yet (http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/24/smedley-dc-universe-online-is-soes-fastest-seller-yet/)

Xbox 360 Exclusives (http://segmentnext.com/2010/12/12/xbox-360-vs-playstation-3-exclusives-2011/)
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Outro: Colecovision (http://gameads.gamepressure.com/tv_game_commercial.asp?ID=12251)

[LeakingBlood]

Tuning in :D

[strife18]

Woo-hoo, can't wait for tomorrow to listen to it while I work.

[ShockandAww]

Sweeeeet

[NateWhs152]

I could use a code for whatever the twin stick shooter was. Great show.

[Bacchus]

Hey look, a CAGcast!

[Master Troll]

The twin stick shooter sounds interesting Wombat. Great show guys, I lol'd when I heard Cheapy talking about his bad luck in Dead Rising 2.

[DaMonStEr]

Niceeeeeeeee

[Desecron]

What's that stat tracking site you guys use? Raptor or something? I can't find it! Thanks.

[YoatOverNothing]

I'd be interested in a Twin Stick code. I've been playing a lot of indie games on my 360 lately (including Epic Dungeon).

And that 1000 Spikes game is hard. I am stuck on level 1-5.

[meager]

Too bad Ship didn't play the first Two Worlds game so we could get a direct comparision about the technical improvements. The first game had some of the most godawful character models, stiff n64-era conversation animations, and bad, bad voice acting and dialog. (Just say "forsooth" a lot.) Framerate seemed to worsen deeper into the story so by the end of the game, I noticed there would be a pause before every single killing blow so the game could load the death animation. I knew when the game stalled I either killed my enemy or had just froze my Xbox... it was exciting suspense each time!

Of course it's "okay" that the 3DS is priced at $250. Just like when Microsoft raised the price of Xbox Live, Nintendo just looked at what Sony was getting away with at that price point. PSP Go or 3DS... no contest. Oh, wait, sorry, the Sony bashing was last episode.

[The Dutch Slayer]

Thanks for the podcast! :)

Now will this be the podcast for this week or will their be another one this week?

[mykevermin]

There is an 'e' in 'amazeballs.'

[repete]

how do you pronounce the title

[shipwreck]

how do you pronounce the title

It's pronounced SOOF-yawn.

[RanchLizard]

Good show! Seemed to be more fun and less serious than normal.

For people that don't know what Wombat is talking about, here is the Clifford kid before the wheelchair:
[IMG-C=144]20643[/IMG-C]

And after:
[IMG-C=144]20644[/IMG-C]

I have read the same book to all 4 of my kids and wondered the same thing.

(Images grabbed from youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZeP9AMOPfJw )

[faceturd]

You guys talk about "raptor" tracking your game times occasionally... what is the link to the website?

[Wombat]

www.raptr.com, enjoy!

[kvadair]

The problem with the 3DS price point is simple: consumers see 3D as a gimmick and are not ready to pay a $80 premium over the DSi launch price for it. The 3DS may have other new features, but it is 3D that is used as the selling point, and nobody is paying that much just to add 3D.

Edit: Continuing the argument I think it's safe to say that accelerometers and an analog stick add no more than $40 worth of value (the cost of a wiimote), but probably add less since the DS already has the most versatile control options of any handheld ever. This means that customers are being asked to shell out ~$40 (or 20%) more for 3D. If you go by current price rather than launch price this grows to $60 or 30%. Given the fact that 3D technology has come and gone over the years, but never risen above fad status, I think consumers are right to balk at that kind kind of price premium.

[blacksanta87]

"you know me, everytime I get to a frustrating part in a game, I never want to play it again" -cheapyd

You're a pussy. What kind of gamer are you? As soon as you die, or something doesn't go your way you turn it off and move on to the next game. Grow some balls you fat bitch.

[WankerJist]

Hey, I'd like to win something! Although everytime I think of the Indie Xbox Live, I think of that push-out-the-baby game with avatar support. Gross.

I'd really like to play DCU, but betting against WoW for continued support after initial launch seems like a bad move. Also, I like the Marvel superheros much more - where's the Marvel MMO?

[shanezey]

Wombat put into words what I really couldn't. I've had my same old 20GB Xbox 360 (non-HDMI) since 2006 and I've definitely got my money out of it, and I still use it on a daily basis. However, I'm starting to get that itch to buy a new console. I just got my first high-def TV for X-mas and I am very interested in Blu-Ray. Furthermore, I'd like to play the Uncharted games, and revisit some of my favorite games from the PS2 days (Sly Cooper and Ico hopefully).

The price still isn't where I'd like it to be, I think once it hits $250 I'll jump on it...

[4nik8tor]

Wombat got his chops in. good job!

[shogunieyasu]

Wombat, congrats on finishing Dragon Age! I played it through once when it first came out and was in a big hurry. I didn't do many of the side quests, I didn't understand how important mages were, and basically, when I got to the end, I got creamed. So a few months later I went back and did it right, played a mage, did every freakin' side quest, and then cruised through the end. Awesome. I haven't picked up any DLC, because I heard one piece of DLC was crappy. What should I download and play before DAII?

[shogunieyasu]

Shipwreck, Wombat, Cheapy:

Another thing that PS3 has going for it is the collective power of all these releases. In addition to the multi-platform goodness, we have a BOATLOAD of exclusives. Even if the podcast didn't identify a single system-selling exclusive for PS3 in the controversial show last week, the weight of SO MANY exclusives is in and of itself a great reason to get a PS3, whether it's your first console or something new after half a decade with an xbox.

I got back into gaming in December 2009 after being out of it for many years. I chose to get a PS3 because the games I wanted to play were either multi-platform (Dragon Age, Assassin's Creed II, Batman: Arkham Asylum) or PS3 exclusives (Uncharted I and II, Infamous). The one game that I wanted but couldn't get, Mass Effect II, well, I'm playing it now on PS3.

[banodyne]

Wombat, that Clifford book must've been an updated politically-correct revision. I've read my library's old copy of it to my niece and the boy with the St. Bernard was just fine on the last page. Since a lot of classic kids books were from the 50s, it's usually white kid after white kid. I've seen new edtions that re-colored (no pun intended) the kids. Sounds like Sabrina's book had a lazy editor that didn't check to see if the kid was seen elsewhere in the story.

[Curufinwe]

"you know me, everytime I get to a frustrating part in a game, I never want to play it again" -cheapyd

You're a pussy. What kind of gamer are you? As soon as you die, or something doesn't go your way you turn it off and move on to the next game. Grow some balls you fat bitch.

There's nothing cooler than an Internet tough guy.

[Ravenhood]

"you know me, everytime I get to a frustrating part in a game, I never want to play it again" -cheapyd

You're a pussy. What kind of gamer are you? As soon as you die, or something doesn't go your way you turn it off and move on to the next game. Grow some balls you fat bitch.

Is there something wrong with wanting to enjoy the game, not being frustrated the entire time? Cheapy's right, Dead Rising 2 is fairly frustrating, especially with the random placement and timing of the psychos.

By the way, Cheapy, the guy you fought was Ted and the tiger Snowflake, in the Yucatan Casino. I've got a tip to hopefully lower your frustration. Take a bunch of steaks into the battle, and whatever powerful weapons you like, preferrably some good guns. Stay on top of the slot machines, and throw one steak on the ground in front of Snowflake (assuming Snowflake is facing you). She'll eventually eat one; if you do this three or four times, you'll tame Snowflake and she won't attack you. Finish off Ted (he's a lightweight so long as you keep your health up), and take Snowflake back to the safe room. She's considered a gift for Katie, so it's good to take advantage of the extra PP. Hope that can help you out a bit.

[Monsta Mack]

I'm surprised you guys didn't mention you'll need a DLC token from Dead Space 2 to get "Sir Isaac Clarke" in Dragon Age 2 - or at least that's how I'm understanding it. (I forgot to mention this last CAGCast when Wombat was upset over Dragon Age 2's signature edition).

http://www.gametrailers.com/video/ser-isaac-dragon-age-2/709597

[usickenme]

Wombat was on his game this show.

Right about buying a PS3- those are the exact reasons I got one
Right about sounding like Kenny Rodgers

although I always assumed the kid in the wheelchair at the end of Clifford was just a different kid (I mean, he would've aged a little)

[Stryffe2004]

Hey CAG crew, you really should try DCU Online. It really is made for console gamers. Using completely unscientific techniques, I come to the conclusion that PC gamers juggle less games at a time than console gamers. I think that's why it is harder for console gamers to justify $15 per month is you are also playing an online shooter and the games du jour. PC MMO players seems to play their MMO and maybe a handful of other games. That is why PC MMO's generally have crafting and grinding so you will invest more time.

DCU is great for short term console style play. Most people are looking at reaching 30 in a fairly short amount of time as a negative. I think it is great. There are no crafting timesinks or grinding. I jump in, play for a bit and then jump out and still have fun along the way. It also allows you to try out multiple characters and still make progress. Hopefully they will live up to their promise of new content monthly. I am giving it three months.

[SoxFan13]

Hey guys, as always, your show was amazballs! Seriously though, I always enjoy the show. This may not be true of your entire audience, but I really like when Wombat and Cheapy talk about their kids. I have a 3 year old and 1 year old girl, but none of my "parent friends" are nearly as into games as I am. Listening to you guys talk about the latest accomplishments of Tai (sp?) and Sabrina makes me feel a little more normal about my gaming habits as a parent. Keep up the good work!

[4thHorseman]

Great show, but I have one major complaint. You didn't hit the hornet nest like you did with last weeks show. Disappointed!

Anyways, hope you get to feeling better Wombat. Cheapy, hope you stay above the sickness and both your wife and child get to feeling better. And Ship...well...everything seems to be okay for you so stay the same.

[mobcrew]

First time I have listened to a CAGcast and I enjoyed it a lot actually. Thanks.

[Rouzhokuu]

Oh, wait, sorry, the Sony bashing was last episode.

Whoa, whoa, whoa.. you mean there was Sony bashing on the CAGcast?

That's a shocker!

And how long was the talk on 2011 360 exclusives? 5 minutes or so?

http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk19/Threddd/IWCnk.jpg

Funny how the platform that doesn't really have any 2011 exclusives gets the most attention. I wonder why that is...

Hilarious.

[Conboy]

Listening right now. Good show so far. Amazballs, now with less PS3 bashing.

[easper]

Dunno, I'm with Cheapy when it comes to frustrating games. My gaming time is limited and my backlog big enough that it takes all my willpower to even finish some games, let alone the ones that are too punishing. That said, I tend to make exceptions for retro-style games like Donkey Kong Country Returns.

One more thought on the PS3 and then I'll leave the conversation: A lot of people buy them because they're really good Blu-ray players. I dig the games, but the movie functionality was what pushed me over the edge—and helped my wife be okay with a $300 purchase. Thanks to the PS3 remote and optical audio out, it's also my player of choice for Netflix streaming.

I review DVDs and Blu-rays, and there has been a scary increase in discs that don't play correctly on all BR machines, whether because of weird file architecture or firmware incompatibility. In those cases, the PS3 seems to be the only one that works (nearly) every time.

[demonhellcat]

In reference to the comment about racing games in general (not sure who said it, probably shipwreck) made after mentioning Forza 4:

Racing games are dead? Why are there so many of them then? Just this year we had F1 2010, NFS:HP, Blur, Split Second, Gran Turismo 5, NFS: Shift, and wait for it.... Kinect Joy Ride. Okay, so the last one was a joke but the rest of them were top shelf games. No, they don't sell as well as shooters but nothing does. All these games made money for their respective developers except maybe Blur.

As a 360 owner and sim racing fan Forza 4 is my most anticipated game of 2011 even if it doesn't get here until Q4. No, I don't believe it will cause any converts in the Playstation/Gran Turismo crowd and sell many consoles for Microsoft but due to the massive install base the game will sell very well. If the trend continues as it has from Forza 1 to 2 to 3, Forza 4 should sell well over 2 million copies next holiday season.

[actripxl]

Wombat put into words what I really couldn't. I've had my same old 20GB Xbox 360 (non-HDMI) since 2006 and I've definitely got my money out of it, and I still use it on a daily basis. However, I'm starting to get that itch to buy a new console. I just got my first high-def TV for X-mas and I am very interested in Blu-Ray. Furthermore, I'd like to play the Uncharted games, and revisit some of my favorite games from the PS2 days (Sly Cooper and Ico hopefully).

The price still isn't where I'd like it to be, I think once it hits $250 I'll jump on it...

Dude if you end up getting a PS3, do not miss the Uncharted Series! Also if you wan't someone with a mic feel free to add me.

[Wombat]

In reference to the comment about racing games in general (not sure who said it, probably shipwreck) made after mentioning Forza 4:

Racing games are dead? Why are there so many of them then? Just this year we had F1 2010, NFS:HP, Blur, Split Second, Gran Turismo 5, NFS: Shift, and wait for it.... Kinect Joy Ride. Okay, so the last one was a joke but the rest of them were top shelf games. No, they don't sell as well as shooters but nothing does. All these games made money for their respective developers except maybe Blur.

As a 360 owner and sim racing fan Forza 4 is my most anticipated game of 2011 even if it doesn't get here until Q4. No, I don't believe it will cause any converts in the Playstation/Gran Turismo crowd and sell many consoles for Microsoft but due to the massive install base the game will sell very well. If the trend continues as it has from Forza 1 to 2 to 3, Forza 4 should sell well over 2 million copies next holiday season.

Of the games you mentioned, F1 2010 (did anyone buy that in the US), NFS:HP(sold at most retailers for 35bucks in Nov & Dec), Blur(closed down the studio), Split Second (massive layoffs), Gran Turismo 5 (worst selling of the franchise?), NFS: Shift (not in stores yet).

I stand by my statement, racing, for the mainstream is dead.

[The Great BM]

Just a note about the comment regarding console-quality games during the PSP2 segment: I believe there are some gamers that could benefit from this. I used to travel for work, so I spent almost 70% of my week away from home, either on a train or in a hotel room. Occasionally I would bring my PS2 up with me, but it became a pain in the ass taking an additional piece of luggage with me everywhere. Something like a PSP2 would be great in that situation as one could get their fill games like Uncharted without having to lug their consoles around with them.

[Sgt Barone]

I always love me a new CAGcast!

[PhaperPlane]

I thought this was an excellent show. Despite Wombat being ill, I believe Wombat was on the top of his game in this episode.

Another excellent show guys! :D

[Kuromimi]

Awesome show guys! Is there going to be another show later this week?

[Fell Open Ian]

Two Worlds II is fucking atrocious just like the first one.

If you want to play a European RPG which is a bit janky but still good then play The Witcher. (or S.T.A.L.K.E.R. if ya swing that way)

[demonhellcat]

Of the games you mentioned, F1 2010 (did anyone buy that in the US), NFS:HP(sold at most retailers for 35bucks in Nov & Dec), Blur(closed down the studio), Split Second (massive layoffs), Gran Turismo 5 (worst selling of the franchise?), NFS: Shift (not in stores yet).

I stand by my statement, racing, for the mainstream is dead.

Well played Wombat, well played. I guess you made your point that I am not in the mainstream and I guess that's okay with me as long as a decent console racing sim is made every 2-3 years. But I still stand by my statement that Forza 4 will sell well. Not COD numbers by any means, but well enough to justify it's existence plus some.

And I meant the first Shift but upon further research realize it was released in 2009... man I'm behind the times.

Despite my complaint and subsequent lackluster defense of my favorite game genre I enjoyed the show, keep em' coming.

[KillerRamen]

Of the games you mentioned, F1 2010 (did anyone buy that in the US), NFS:HP(sold at most retailers for 35bucks in Nov & Dec), Blur(closed down the studio), Split Second (massive layoffs), Gran Turismo 5 (worst selling of the franchise?), NFS: Shift (not in stores yet).

I stand by my statement, racing, for the mainstream is dead.

I've never been a huge fan of racing games, but I think the Gran Turismo series is definitely an exception. Gran Turismo 5: Prologue sold 5.05 million copies and Gran Turismo 5 has sold 5.5 million copies since it's release in late November.
http://www.polyphony.co.jp/english/list.html
http://www.gtplanet.net/5-5-million-copies-of-gt5-sold-series-tops-60-million/

Gran Turismo is just one of those games that continue to sell over a long period of time and I think there's still plenty of time in GT5's life cycle to hit some truly impressive numbers. If Wikipedia is to be believed, then Gran Turismo 5 and Prologue are the PS3's #1 and #2 best selling games.

Other than Gran Turismo, I think you're probably right about the state of racing games right now. Well, Mario Kart is also an exception to the rule (Mario Kart Wii sold over 24 million copies).

[Wombat]

Well played Wombat, well played. I guess you made your point that I am not in the mainstream and I guess that's okay with me as long as a decent console racing sim is made every 2-3 years. But I still stand by my statement that Forza 4 will sell well. Not COD numbers by any means, but well enough to justify it's existence plus some.

And I meant the first Shift but upon further research realize it was released in 2009... man I'm behind the times.

Despite my complaint and subsequent lackluster defense of my favorite game genre I enjoyed the show, keep em' coming.

I like racing games too, but it's not the genre it once was. Trust me they will still make racing games for you, even the 3DS will have Ridge Racer.

[shipwreck]

Two Worlds II is fucking atrocious just like the first one.

If you want to play a European RPG which is a bit janky but still good then play The Witcher. (or S.T.A.L.K.E.R. if ya swing that way)

First, I've played about thirty hours of Two Worlds II and it's not atrocious.

Second, The Witcher and S.T.A.L.K.E.R. are not available on consoles.

Third, I'm never going to buy a PC to play games.

Fourth, no really, never.

[Fell Open Ian]

Refusing to play either The Witcher or S.T.A.L.K.E.R. goes a long way in explaining why you don't regard Two Worlds II as the utter piece of shit that it is.

As someone who has played a lot of European RPGs across a lot of platforms...Two Worlds II is downright embarrassing when put up against other offerings from that part of the world.

edit: And I thought that you had played the spiritual successor to S.T.A.L.K.E.R.? (Metro 2033)

edit #2: For the CAG quick looks...how about Cheap Shots?

[apathylad]

I like Jeff Gerstmann, but I'd have to listen and read more opinions on DCU Online to get a better idea of its quality. Jeff doesn't come across as a guy who likes MMOs. That's how I am with most reviews really. For example, Shipwreck enjoyed BlazBlue, but Jeff wasn't as thrilled by it.

[faceturd]

www.raptr.com (http://www.raptr.com), enjoy!

Thanx wombat. Feel better.

[RichMeisterMan]

Wow, cheapy. You really got burned on that boss fight(s) in Dead Rising 2.

What happened to me, is I got to the very VERY end of the game I'm about to do what I need to do to go into over time, and I stopped playing. BOOM! Just like that! I thought I'd go back, but never did.

Slam-fucking-dunk on the little bit of talk about handheld gaming. My first CAG blog (http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/blog.php?b=16361)actually (http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/blog.php?b=16361%29actually) addressed some of these issues with grand titles being on puny handhelds. It's unfortunate to see great games fail seemingly because of the console they are located on.

[cindersphere]

Cheapy's fat dog sounded like George Tekai barking. Good show overall though.

[brentaw]

I miss the CAGs on news song.

[jh6269]

PS3 Blood Libel:

I think you guys still didn't get the point that the PS3 exclusives are really great games, but they don't attract 360-only gamers or other gamers because Sony doesn't market or advertise them properly. (Yes, Shipwreck did touch on it slightly when he said that Sony is actually advertising Killzone 3 a month in advance). But I do firmly believe that if you saw CG cut-scenes of Killzone 3 all over the TV, it could be a system seller (just like MS is going to do with Gears 3). And also, I think (for me at least) most of the anger was because this is a great environment for gamers--20 exclusives is pretty nice if you're a PS3 owner. Frankly, there are 10 games that i want out of that list, and I don't know how I'm possibly going to get those and the other games that haven't been announced.

3DS:

The 3DS is not worth $250. I agree with Cheapy when he said that it really isn't much of a step up from the current DS. The screenshots I have seen look identical to what you can find on the current DS; and having them in 3D really doesn't justify the extra $100 from the normal DS (which I already have). Also, there's the whole debacle about the dumb friend codes (still?!), and the restrictions on the digitally downloaded games form one 3DS to another (still?!). Forget it, I will wait for the inevitable "3DS Lite." I do agree with Shipwreck that unfortunately, the 3DS will be a huge success. I just wonder how much longer can Nintendo pull this off w/o having to really give their franchises an upgrade.

PSP2:

Wombat is correct. If the PSP2 is over $250, it's not going to be pretty. In my opinion, if Sony really has a PSP that's like a portable PS3 that has the OLED screen, dual analog sticks, is backwards compatible, has "HD" graphics on a portable device, and they were able to get that out for $200 or less, this could be a game changer.

[acolon]

Great show ... I say next week everyone takes a couple of hits of Codein before the taping so you all sound as beligerent as Wombat did towards the end of the show.

[Curufinwe]

Third, I'm never going to buy a PC to play games.

Fourth, no really, never.

I don't know what type of Macs you own, but now that a lot of Steam games are on the Mac do you think you'll be doing any gaming on that platform in the future?

[Kylearan]

PS3 Blood Libel:

I think you guys still didn't get the point that the PS3 exclusives are really great games, but they don't attract 360-only gamers or other gamers because Sony doesn't market or advertise them properly.

I don't think it has much to do with proper marketing or advertising by Sony - it's the games themselves and whether or not they appeal to 360 gamers. You've gotta do something significantly different AND appealing to draw me away from my 360 to play a PS3 game, and it's certainly not going to be Killzone or Resistance over Halo, sorry.

What will work is pushing more niche titles, like Heavy Rain, Demon Souls, LBP (for some people, LBP can bite me), and the upcoming The Last Guardian. Show how these PS3 experiences are so vastly different than anything on the 360, rather than market-blasting derivative and overdone types of games like Killzone, Resistance, even Infamous (vs. gameplay of Prototype).

Are those derivative games fun? Absolutely. Are there tons of derivative games on the 360? You bet. But will those PS3 games get me to leave my 360? No. But the niche games will get me in a heartbeat.

And also innovate some system functionality instead of playing follow the leader: trophies (Achievements), Playstation ID (Gamertag), Playstation Network (XBOX Live), Playstation Plus (XBL Gold), Playstation Move (the Wii), and the supposed PSP2 with touchscreen (DS/iPhone/iPad). There's a whole culture around these things and Sony never had the ball to begin with.

[jh6269]

I don't think it has much to do with proper marketing or advertising by Sony - it's the games themselves and whether or not they appeal to 360 gamers. You've gotta do something significantly different AND appealing to draw me away from my 360 to play a PS3 game, and it's certainly not going to be Killzone or Resistance over Halo, sorry.

What will work is pushing more niche titles, like Heavy Rain, Demon Souls, LBP (for some people, LBP can bite me), and the upcoming The Last Guardian. Show how these PS3 experiences are so vastly different than anything on the 360, rather than market-blasting derivative and overdone types of games like Killzone, Resistance, even Infamous (vs. gameplay of Prototype).

Are those derivative games fun? Absolutely. Are there tons of derivative games on the 360? You bet. But will those PS3 games get me to leave my 360? No. But the niche games will get me in a heartbeat.

And also innovate some system functionality instead of playing follow the leader: trophies (Achievements), Playstation ID (Gamertag), Playstation Network (XBOX Live), Playstation Plus (XBL Gold), Playstation Move (the Wii), and the supposed PSP2 with touchscreen (DS/iPhone/iPad). There's a whole culture around these things and Sony never had the ball to begin with.

Yeah, I do agree with most of what you said (I'm kind of the same way with the niche titles i.e., Yakuza 4, Tales of Graces F (http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/namco-bandai-teaser-site-suggests-tales-of-graces-f-localization/), etc.), but I guess maybe Killzone won't get you but maybe one or two out of the other 19 will? I think Uncharted 3 and Killzone 3 are their flagship titles that would be best shown on TV.

I did read last year that Sony is going to be all about connecting their devices via PSN. That to me is pretty innovative. I think a lot of stuff that Sony does right doesn't mean much to 360 gamers, specifically the ability to copy your games, share them with your friends, upgrade the systems HDD w/o a lot of fuss. I know they're copying a lot of stuff from the competition, but to me that's just trying to keep on par. But I do agree they need to move beyond it somehow.

On the other hand, I do think the reason for so many 1st party exclusives is to really emphasize their strengths. If you notice, God of War 3 had a little more story to it. Killzone 3 and Resistance 3 are getting more story focused. I think they realized that they got something good with Uncharted 2, and they want to try to add some of that element to their other games. That's my best guess at least; will it work? I Don't have any idea (but I'm kind of pessimistic but hopeful).

[shipwreck]

Refusing to play either The Witcher or S.T.A.L.K.E.R. goes a long way in explaining why you don't regard Two Worlds II as the utter piece of shit that it is.

As someone who has played a lot of European RPGs across a lot of platforms...Two Worlds II is downright embarrassing when put up against other offerings from that part of the world.

edit: And I thought that you had played the spiritual successor to S.T.A.L.K.E.R.? (Metro 2033)

edit #2: For the CAG quick looks...how about Cheap Shots?

I played Metro 2033 on the 360. It was my favorite FPS of 2010. I can't fathom how to compare it to Two Worlds II.

[Janaak]

BTW, you guys don't mind me adding you to my raptr acct? (Cheapy, Wombat, Ship) Since I like to ask before sending invites... (due to FFXI's discern for blind invites to party up, lol). Hell everyone can add up as well.

Alas, my 360 Slim has gotten sick and it's gettin repaired and probably due to FFXIII killing my hard drive on the PS3 (that's what I think), I'll be out of console game till I get them back in working order. Heh.

Thanks in advance.

[FriskyTanuki]

Jeff Gerstmann didn't say that he did everything in DCUO in a weekend. He said that he had seen enough in a weekend at about level 24 or so to do his review.

I don't think the PSP2 will actually be as powerful as the PS3, as it'll have a smaller resolution display that doesn't need that much power to produce visuals that will look as good as PS3 games on that screen as far as anecdotes are concerned. I'd imagine that the battery will last about as long as the PSP's battery lasts.

Racing games are definitely dead, Wombat. That's why both Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit and Gran Turismo 5 have sold very well this year, because nobody likes those games any more. Blur, ModNation Racers, and Split/Second just killed each other along with having to compete with games like Red Dead Redemption that took away a good chunk of its potential sales, though only one of those three are still being supported eight months later. Then again, any genre has its successes and failures.

Having two people definitely breaks the difficulty of Plants vs. Zombies, so the survival and mini-game modes should offer some challenge for you two. It'll be on PS3 eventually like every PopCap game.

I agree with Wombat about the 3DS' appeal to me needing more interesting content since I won't pay $250 for the tech alone.

Decent show.

There's nothing cooler than an Internet tough guy.
He doesn't hesitate to send out death threats over PM to those that he hates here. Also note the weed leaf as his avatar that also shows how cool he is.

[adriley313]

so after hearing shipwrecks review for Two Worlds 2 i bought it on Amazon since i couldnt find a deal. I love RPG and this one sounds great. Hopes its better than 1 as i hated that game.

Lets hope your right Shipwreck.

Great show

[QiG]

Wombat was great this episode, maybe it was the codeine but he was surly as hell and it was gold.

[Kylearan]

Yeah, I do agree with most of what you said (I'm kind of the same way with the niche titles i.e., Yakuza 4, Tales of Graces F (http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/namco-bandai-teaser-site-suggests-tales-of-graces-f-localization/), etc.), but I guess maybe Killzone won't get you but maybe one or two out of the other 19 will? I think Uncharted 3 and Killzone 3 are their flagship titles that would be best shown on TV.

On the other hand, I do think the reason for so many 1st party exclusives is to really emphasize their strengths. If you notice, God of War 3 had a little more story to it. Killzone 3 and Resistance 3 are getting more story focused. I think they realized that they got something good with Uncharted 2, and they want to try to add some of that element to their other games. That's my best guess at least; will it work? I Don't have any idea (but I'm kind of pessimistic but hopeful).

Uncharted 3 will definitely get me. I was at a Video Game Trailer panel here in Los Angeles a couple weeks back and got to speak with Taylor Kurosaki from Naughty Dog and...yeah, there's no way I'll miss Uncharted 3.

Killzone 3 will eventually get me. And maybe Tales of Graces F, but The Last Guardian definitely has me psyched. And who knows, if Sorcery doesn't suck, I'll be gaming for that.

I WANT to like Resistance, but have been disappointed and bored playing so far - show me something new already.

I did notice that about GoW3, but for me it was actually less fun than 1 and 2, and again, more of the same. Dante's Inferno definitely diluted the brand a little bit - and was also more of the same.

You could say that Uncharted 3 will be "more of the same", but there's more story-driven appeal already built into it, so it manages to overcome the curse-of-sameness.

Dammit, I'm a broken record about so much being "the same" and "derivative", eh? (It's true, sadly.) Must be why I like throwing a Kinect game in from time to time and why I'm still waiting for the Move to move me. And probably why I tend towards RPGs and other story-oriented games, because they can all still play similarly yet offer an innovative plot or at least something to care about. (Look at Enslaved as a great example of that.)

I guess that's what I want from Sony's exclusives...360's, and heck, I'd even splurge for a Wii if they had something like an Eternal Darkness or Shin Megami Tensei exclusive pop up (not that either of those will occur). Not only something fun and cool, but a reason to give a damn.

That said, this year is absolutely dominated by high-profile multi-platform games. Dead Space 2. Homefront. Deux Ex. Dragon Age 2. Crysis 2. LA Noire. Portal 2. Brink. Red Faction. Max Payne 3. Rage. Batman: Arkham City. Metal Gear Solid: Rising. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. And possible Mass Effect 3. That's an INSANE number of high quality games coming to both systems. And I'm totally screwed if Skyrim and Mass Effect 3 come out close to each other.

Going back to your first point, if Sony has any chance of getting 360 owners to pick up a PS3, they'll need some pretty hoppin' games to put their marketing muscle behind. "It Only Does Everything" is great if you want people to buy it as a Blu-Ray player, but not so much for games. This year, so far at least, they don't have any significantly unique titles aside from The Last Guardian that I can see.

[Z_meista]

I have to agree with cheapy about frustrating games. I play games to have fun, not to get frustrated. Besides, there are so many other games to choose from that are challenging but not frustrating.
Wombat did well (if not better than usual) on the show in spite of the fact that he was sick. Get well soon Wombat.
Wow shipwreck, you played over 20 hours on chapter one of Two Worlds 2? wow...

[4thHorseman]

I like Jeff Gerstmann, but I'd have to listen and read more opinions on DCU Online to get a better idea of its quality. Jeff doesn't come across as a guy who likes MMOs. That's how I am with most reviews really. For example, Shipwreck enjoyed BlazBlue, but Jeff wasn't as thrilled by it.

The problem I have with Jeff sometimes is that he will have problems with some games, but the very same issues that other games share he won't even recognize.

One of his major complaints was how rinse/repeat the mission system is in DCU. I would agree with him, but at the same time, he was in love with GTA4 and gave it game of the year. You know, GTA4, where every mission was basically "drive here, pick this person up, take them here, shoot a lot of people, then drive them back". Rinse/repeat. Throw in some crappy minigames like bowling and apparently that's all he needs.

Hell, he hated Red Dead and that was miles above GTA in terms of everything IMO. And hell, it was basically the same game just a different setting and improved...well...everything.

[SuxoR]

Thank God another show....I was worried they might have taken another crazy break

Can't wait to listen, this still is the best podcast of all to me <3

[Curufinwe]

He doesn't hesitate to send out death threats over PM to those that he hates here. Also note the weed leaf as his avatar that also shows how cool he is.

Wow, he sends out death threats.

What do you have to do to get banned from CAG?

[ShockandAww]

Also agree with Cheapy on frustrating parts of games. If I get stuck for long, I'm probably done with the game and regardless if it's my fault or not I blame it on shitty game design and wonder how such a stupid part of a game got through testing.

So maybe I'm just a whiny bitch but I'm a whiny bitch with no patience or time to play a game that loses it's appeal as I'm trying to beat the same lousy segment for the tenth time. It just isn't fun.

Challenge me? Yes please as long as it's a fun challenge. Frustrate me though and I'm done. It's a fine line I guess, which goes back to the testing.

[Nonja121]

Great show guys. Just a comment about Mass Effect 2 DLC not working across multiple accounts on the same machine. Was this content purchased through XBLA or downloaded through the Cerberus network? If it was downloaded through XBLA but on a different 360, a license transfer might be in order, as XBLA software licenses are linked to both console and account. While you can play any game you've downloaded on the account that purchased it on any machine, only accounts on the original machine can access them if they are not the accounts on which the software was first purchased.

Sorry if you already knew this or if it doesn't help, bit you'd be surprised how many people don't know this.

[sunfiredragon]

Thanks for the Cast guys. Always good for a listen.

[MattJ1991]

I'm with Wombat on the price point of the PSP2, if it's over 250 they are screwed. If the PSP2 and the 3DS are the same price then people will actually look at the benefits of both, where as if the PSP2 is 300 or more there is no way that the average person would pick it over the shiny new nintendo handheld.

[trip1eX]

Of the games you mentioned, F1 2010 (did anyone buy that in the US), NFS:HP(sold at most retailers for 35bucks in Nov & Dec), Blur(closed down the studio), Split Second (massive layoffs), Gran Turismo 5 (worst selling of the franchise?), NFS: Shift (not in stores yet).

I stand by my statement, racing, for the mainstream is dead.

Except for the 20 million Mario Kart Wii has sold. :P

I won't mention the DS version.

[RichMeisterMan]

Except for the 20 million Mario Kart Wii has sold. :P

I won't mention the DS version.

I think you may be mistaking the exception for the rule.

[guardian_owl]

Wombat put into words what I really couldn't. I've had my same old 20GB Xbox 360 (non-HDMI) since 2006 and I've definitely got my money out of it, and I still use it on a daily basis. However, I'm starting to get that itch to buy a new console. I just got my first high-def TV for X-mas and I am very interested in Blu-Ray. Furthermore, I'd like to play the Uncharted games, and revisit some of my favorite games from the PS2 days (Sly Cooper and Ico hopefully).

The price still isn't where I'd like it to be, I think once it hits $250 I'll jump on it...
Recently there was an amazon promo for a $50 credit with purchase of a PS3, or you can check out the Amazon warehouse deals thread periodically (where I purchased my 2nd PS3 for another room recently) to get a "like new" PS3 for around $225.

Main reason I'm not excited about the 3DS isn't even really the $250 pricepoint, it's not I know in the coming years Nintendo is going to wring the cash out of it my releasing several incremental improvements. Why would I want to purchase a 3DS with mediocre titles at launch when I can just wait a little over a year for 3DSx V2 with improved features at the same price? It's what I did with the original DS, kept playing my GBA SP backlog and then finally jumped in with the DS lite.

[volt1up]

I'm surprised you guys didn't mention you'll need a DLC token from Dead Space 2 to get "Sir Isaac Clarke" in Dragon Age 2 - or at least that's how I'm understanding it. (I forgot to mention this last CAGCast when Wombat was upset over Dragon Age 2's signature edition).

http://www.gametrailers.com/video/ser-isaac-dragon-age-2/709597

There is no token in the game.

I believe how it works is through the EA account thing. Login to that while playing DS2 then again while playing DA2 and that will unlock it/ or they'll send you a code.

Refusing to play either The Witcher or S.T.A.L.K.E.R. goes a long way in explaining why you don't regard Two Worlds II as the utter piece of shit that it is.

As someone who has played a lot of European RPGs across a lot of platforms...Two Worlds II is downright embarrassing when put up against other offerings from that part of the world.

edit: And I thought that you had played the spiritual successor to S.T.A.L.K.E.R.? (Metro 2033)

edit #2: For the CAG quick looks...how about Cheap Shots?

Great post, Cheap Shots sound good.

[FriskyTanuki]

Wow, he sends out death threats.

What do you have to do to get banned from CAG?
I wouldn't say it was any explicit, but he basically sent a message with the gravestone/RIP icon and said something like "I hate you" that pretty much said it all. :fridge: O:)

[Janaak]

Let's call the green screen show, Ship's View... lol

[Fell Open Ian]

I played Metro 2033 on the 360. It was my favorite FPS of 2010. I can't fathom how to compare it to Two Worlds II.

Just on the level of quality and the general region of the world in which they were developed.

European RPGs tend to be a bit rough around the edges in a more classic PC RPG sense. A little buggy, a bit janky, but deep and wonderful once you get beyond the sometimes bad first impressions.

The Witcher, S.T.A.L.K.E.R., and Metro 2033 are all very much in that ilk of being far more good than they are broken but still requiring a certain level of investment and even then they are an acquired taste.

Two Worlds II is far more broken than it is good and not worth more than $20. (I imported the PAL version knowing that the first was awful because it was getting solid reviews...the reviews were dead wrong...II is better but so is a swift kick to the groin)

[louiedog]

I don't own a PS3. I've been playing the 360 since 2006 at a time when the PS3 was $600 if you could find one in store and $1000 on ebay. I got the pro model for $340, there was a decent library of games already, and it had a more promising outlook at the time. It wasn't a difficult decision.

I'd like to get a PS3, but I don't feel the need to yet. I've got as many games as I can play for the 360 and there are a number of titles I haven't tried out yet that are hitting $20 and below right now. I think the PS3 is a great system, but as Wombat said in the 3DS (or maybe it was the PSP2) discussion, it's the content, not the system. I don't have time to play every game I'm casually interested in on the system I own, let alone one one I'd have to pay $300 for. The only thing I feel like I have to play at some point is the Uncharted series. I figure in a year or two I'll be able to pick up a PS3 for $150-$200 and all three games for another $50. Until then, I don't have any motivation to spend the cash for something that's mostly going to sit there and do nothing.

I don't care how long the exclusives list is, how well they'll review, or how fast they'll sell. If I can play 95% of the games I want to play and occupy 100% of my gaming time, then I'm set. This isn't some fanboy stance, I'd likely say the exact same thing about the 360 if I had a PS3 since most of the games I play are multi-platform.

[tigstah]

i have both the 360 and ps3. i prefer to game on the 360. i don't know why, if a game is available for both, i usually get the 360 version. i just picked up killzone 2. i played lbp, it was ok. i was thinking about getting lbp2.

[cgarb84]

3DS:

The 3DS is not worth $250. I agree with Cheapy when he said that it really isn't much of a step up from the current DS. The screenshots I have seen look identical to what you can find on the current DS; and having them in 3D really doesn't justify the extra $100 from the normal DS (which I already have)


If you can't see the difference between 3DS games such as MGS3 and the two Resident Evil games and DS games like the two Zelda titles and the new Golden Sun then I can't help you. The difference is crazy I mean really, get your eyes checked.

[DarkNessBear]

I very much enjoyed this episode - glad I didn't unsubscribed like my false promises said.

And the thing about PS3 fanboys being the most defensive - it's not platform exclusive. It's fanboys in general when you bash what they obsess with continuously. The Xbox1 fanboys last generation were just as insane - it's just who's in last place/who gets the most flack.

[trip1eX]

Except for the 20 million Mario Kart Wii has sold. :P

I won't mention the DS version.
I think you may be mistaking the exception for the rule.


lol. Read again.

[jh6269]

If you can't see the difference between 3DS games such as MGS3 and the two Resident Evil games and DS games like the two Zelda titles and the new Golden Sun then I can't help you. The difference is crazy I mean really, get your eyes checked.

I went back and looked, and they look slightly better than the current DS (particularly Mario Kart and the Ocarina of Time) games and pretty much the same as a PSP. I hadn't looked at RE and MGS b/c I'm not interest in them at all, but I admit they look better, but not better than what I've seen on a PSP.

[cgarb84]

Yeah you are right about some games looking bad initially, Ridge Racer looks like complete ass for example. Both RE games and MGS3 look great, at least on par with the best of the PSP if not a tad better.

[bitterWolf]

codeineWombat was on fire - even funnier than usual :) not sure which made me laugh harder, "don't break your pussy" or the "odor" comment.

I also agree with cheapy on playing (or not playing, rather) difficult games. We do this for fun, but if the game is nothing but an aggravation, well, I can stay at work late if I want that.

Another fun show, gentleman - thanks!

[Ultramontane]

Wombat, I'm confused...

Between the last two shows I've learned that you either clean glory holes or watch gay orgies for a living. Is everything OK at the home front? I mean if that's your thing, it's totally cool. I just want to make sure you keep on doing the CAGcast.

Good show all, keep it up.

[smthng]

Between the last two shows I've learned that you either clean glory holes or watch gay orgies for a living..

Unfortunately, that's about all I got out of this CAGcast (and some nonsense about kids shows or something). The first nine minutes of utter crap got me so torqued off that I realized I wasn't even listening by the time I'd made it to 15 minute mark.

Might I recommend that you make two podcasts? The "CrapCast" could be 45 minutes or so of stuff that has nothing to do with games while you all just catch up on Skype or something. Then do a 15 minute CAGcast where games are actually discussed. That would be kind of cool.

Edit:I should note that when you're actually talking about games, the 'cast is quite decent.

[jaystaeb8]

I have one major problem with the 3DS. I haven't enjoyed a Mario, Zelda or Nintendo franchise game in probably about 15 to 20 years. The 3DS promises more of the same, except in 3D with a higher per game cost. I haven't missed my DS Lite in the last 3 years, even my kids have stopped playing their DS's and they are only 4 and 6 years old. They play iPod touch because they can play so many more different experiences. I have to charge their iPods about every 2 or 3 days. I haven't charged their DS's in 3 or 4 months.

I am not saying the 3DS is doomed, it will sell well, better than the PSP2, which I am looking forward to, however it won't come close to DS, DS Lite, GBA numbers simply because of apple products. Especially at the $250 price point. iPod Touch and 25-30 games, $250-$300 depending on the games. 3DS and 1 game, $300.

[solipse]

Thanks Cheapy... just used one of your godaddy codes.

[Zaku77]

Greatest idea ever for the PSP2! A little portable, plug in UMD drive!! Like what you could get for a netbook. That would be an awesome way to add backwards compatibility! It will never happen of course, but would still be awesomesauce!

[Walt Jay]

Great show guys. Wombat needs to be on codeine every episode! :D

Also, I'd like to enter Cheapy "win $6" contest.

[xXLeadFarmerXx]

Gimme dat twin stick shit.

Please!

[MattBWild]

Where is the website you guys referenced that tracks the amount of time you spend on a game?

[davidb69]

Good show! Seemed to be more fun and less serious than normal.

For people that don't know what Wombat is talking about, here is the Clifford kid before the wheelchair:
[IMG-C=144]20643[/IMG-C]

And after:
[IMG-C=144]20644[/IMG-C]

I have read the same book to all 4 of my kids and wondered the same thing.

(Images grabbed from youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZeP9AMOPfJw )


My wife says because the clothes are different, it's possible the other family has another child. Check out the different hair and clothes

[davidb69]

Where is the website you guys referenced that tracks the amount of time you spend on a game?

www.raptr.com (http://www.raptr.com)


I added everyone as friends, funny things I noticed was xbox and psn was available for tracking, why don't you track you PSN time?

[shipwreck]

www.raptr.com (http://www.raptr.com)


I added everyone as friends, funny things I noticed was xbox and psn was available for tracking, why don't you track you PSN time?

PlayStation 3 time tracking requires running the Raptr client. Running the Raptr client requires a Windows PC. All three of us use Macs.

[visorman30]

Fun show guys, the part about the wheelchair was funny but I don't really see a need to censor the page.

Also, thought it was funny when you guys talked about how X-box fans would react to criticism. I'm sure it wouldn't be good, we're not talking about the most mature group of people (as a incredible generality) and there are tons of X-box kids running around shit-talking and making Live annoying. I think the time when the X-box defense force really showed itself was when the cost of Live increased. Instead of the usual rage about the price increase (which in my opinion, for the service should seriously be free) there was a lot of rationalization and justification. Anyways, I always enjoy the show, please keep up the good work I'm sure sometimes the show can be a bit of a drag/grind.

[LiK]

Cheapy: "So here comes this giant retard, sorry, I mean, mentally retarded..."

ROFL!

[skubish]

Regarding Shipwreck producing quicklooks. I think he should call them peep shows. Sorry if this has already been posted. I didn't read the whole thread.

[kingkiller33]

Dunno, I'm with Cheapy when it comes to frustrating games. My gaming time is limited and my backlog big enough that it takes all my willpower to even finish some games, let alone the ones that are too punishing. That said, I tend to make exceptions for retro-style games like Donkey Kong Country Returns.

One more thought on the PS3 and then I'll leave the conversation: A lot of people buy them because they're really good Blu-ray players. I dig the games, but the movie functionality was what pushed me over the edge—and helped my wife be okay with a $300 purchase. Thanks to the PS3 remote and optical audio out, it's also my player of choice for Netflix streaming.

I review DVDs and Blu-rays, and there has been a scary increase in discs that don't play correctly on all BR machines, whether because of weird file architecture or firmware incompatibility. In those cases, the PS3 seems to be the only one that works (nearly) every time.


The netflix streaming is superior on PS3 also. You can search for titles, and it displays icons for your queue across the whole screen. With Xbox, I have to scroll left to right which takes forever.

[gh0ul]

Great show guys as always. Never even heard about two worlds 2 before the show. Very interested now. Thanks

[kingkiller33]

Fun show guys, the part about the wheelchair was funny but I don't really see a need to censor the page.

Also, thought it was funny when you guys talked about how X-box fans would react to criticism. I'm sure it wouldn't be good, we're not talking about the most mature group of people (as a incredible generality) and there are tons of X-box kids running around shit-talking and making Live annoying. I think the time when the X-box defense force really showed itself was when the cost of Live increased. Instead of the usual rage about the price increase (which in my opinion, for the service should seriously be free) there was a lot of rationalization and justification. Anyways, I always enjoy the show, please keep up the good work I'm sure sometimes the show can be a bit of a drag/grind.


They didn't criticize the X-box though. The Cagcast lately continues to give me a bitter taste especially with the mocking quips about "hating PS3".

Instead, you guys already knock down the PSP2 without even trying it claiming there is just no need or demand to play PS3 quality games on a handheld.

Face it, 2011 is going to be Sony's year. Sony is offering new hardware and tons of exclusives. Xbox gives you the same old experience, no new hardware, only two exclusives, and higher price for online gaming. Gee thanks.

[Zaku77]

Yet the Xbox will still reign supreme for some reason. Something about the way Sony has been doing things just doesn't quite resonate with people. It's bizarre really. I notice it every time I turn on my PS3 after getting off the 360 though.

[trip1eX]

I have one major problem with the 3DS. I haven't enjoyed a Mario, Zelda or Nintendo franchise game in probably about 15 to 20 years. The 3DS promises more of the same, except in 3D with a higher per game cost. I haven't missed my DS Lite in the last 3 years, even my kids have stopped playing their DS's and they are only 4 and 6 years old. They play iPod touch because they can play so many more different experiences. I have to charge their iPods about every 2 or 3 days. I haven't charged their DS's in 3 or 4 months.

I am not saying the 3DS is doomed, it will sell well, better than the PSP2, which I am looking forward to, however it won't come close to DS, DS Lite, GBA numbers simply because of apple products. Especially at the $250 price point. iPod Touch and 25-30 games, $250-$300 depending on the games. 3DS and 1 game, $300.


I like how a 4 yr old has stopped playing his or her DS. rofl.

[Wombat]

They didn't criticize the X-box though. The Cagcast lately continues to give me a bitter taste especially with the mocking quips about "hating PS3".

Instead, you guys already knock down the PSP2 without even trying it claiming there is just no need or demand to play PS3 quality games on a handheld.

Face it, 2011 is going to be Sony's year. Sony is offering new hardware and tons of exclusives. Xbox gives you the same old experience, no new hardware, only two exclusives, and higher price for online gaming. Gee thanks.

What specifically should I be facing. I want to be sure I am staring at the correct thing, like the wall or the floor?

[bgame2]

Two shows in a row I agreed with Wombat about multiple things. You're right, "Content is king." Assuming the content provided for a console is good, then the price for the system becomes somewhat of a necessary evil.

Having said that, can you guys please comment on the phenomena known as "The year of the PS3" aka "Sony's year". To the best of my knowledge this has spawned from the gibberish of IGN editors who keep harping on this being the "Year of the PS3".

In my opinion this is the equivalent of winning the last lap of a four lap race. Does anyone care if you lose by 10 seconds instead of 20? Nintendo and Microsoft have won the generation. Profits and Install base are what they care about. This silly slogan seems to give the impression that Sony would rather win 2011 than have more consoles installed than Microsoft and Nintendo.

Exclusives mean nothing unless they sell systems. Microsoft continues to sell 360's based on the system's existing popularity. If you haven't already bought a system, you're not buying Call of Duty and a PS3 when your friends are playing the same game on the 360.


Also: Feel better Wombat.

[rightangle90]

Good show, it was entertaining.

A small correction about Dead Rising 2, you can run away from the psychopath fights by going to another area, and those psychopaths will still be waiting there if you decide to go back. But if you're low on health, the boss might kill you before you get the chance to run away.

Dead Rising 2 is both a fun game and an annoying game. They should really do something about those psychopath fights. Like giving us a block button or something. I think Ted, the mentally disabled guy, can be knocked down for a few seconds. I think the sledgehammer can do that if you jump and attack him. The sledgehammer should slam down. I know the Defiler (Fire Axe + Sledgehammer combo) can. Sadly, most bosses can't be knocked down.

For Leon, the douchebag, if you manage to jump out of the way, you can get him to crash into the fountain or that mountain-like area. That should stop him for a second or two. Avoid those chainsaws! If that doesn't work, he will eventually go in circles and taunt you. Which will give you a few seconds to hit him at least once. Rinse and repeat. I wish they made these boss fights better. Something about only attacking them during one or two moments feels too restrictive.

kingkiller33: In past CAGcasts, they have criticized the Xbox 360. Like the Kinect or the naming of the "New Xbox Experience". Nothing really recent to criticize, I suppose. I don't keep up on Xbox 360 news unless it happens to be up on joystiq.

[jh6269]

What specifically should I be facing. I want to be sure I am staring at the correct thing, like the wall or the floor?

You should be sitting in the corner in time out.

[MattBWild]

Thanks you guys!

[padumavati]

As an almost exclusive PS3 owner and player (my bf has a 360 but it's not hooked up to the big TV), I don't really care when the CAG crew makes fun of it. Most of their criticism is deserved and is backed up by the smaller number of consoles sold. It doesn't lessen my enjoyment of the console, which I still think has tremendous advantages over the 360. Although I do want to *headdesk* anytime there's a software update.

As for the 3DS, $250 is a lot for people who are going to hand it over to a kid. But after thinking about it a bit, I'll get one. The bulk of my gaming is on the DS and I skipped getting the DSi so I'm looking forward to a new DS (especially in teal... I'm a sucker).

As for the DCU MMO, I'm disappointed that it's so blah sounding. I have no interest in an MMO really, but I'd kill for a DCU RPG. Sounds like their attempt at a hybrid will leave DC fans wanting more without delivering.

[Salmonday]

I think Shipwreck's greenscreen preview show should be called "Cheap Shots."

[Blackout]

In typical CAGCast fashion, you guys spent almost no time discussing almost 20 pages of criticisms from last weeks show. The only thing missing was Wombat whining that all the people said the same thing.

I still fail to see why you guys dedicated an entire episode to the PS3. Was there any point to that entire thing? For the 360, you spent like 2 minutes looking at the system-with no criticisms, no deep discussions, no thoughts, no Microsoft failings, no 2011 outlooks- like you did with the PS3. You guys spent more time discussing shitty Itouch games no one cares about this episode than you did analyzing the 360. I think when people asked for you all to look at the 360, they were expecting the same amount of time and effort as you put into the PS3. I guess that was too much to expect.

I think if the PSP2 is priced at $300, it will definitely be competitive against the 3DS. It doesn't need to be $250, although that would be even better. The presentation they did showed a lot of cool features. The 3DS just seems dated after Sony's presentation, and it hasn't even been released yet. I think the next system will be much more successful than the original PSP.

Funny show though. Wombat seems to be a lot funnier when he's sick as hell.

[KingBroly]

NGP's problem is that it is essentially alienating the entire PSP base because it doesn't UMD's and most likely won't allow any sort of transfer to digital copies for those games. Additionally, they've eliminated the need for customers and stores to buy copies of PSP games since they'll be unusable in a few months on their new handheld.

This battle really strikes of DS vs. PSP all over again and we all know who won that battle. I believe if you look up the definition of insanity in the dictionary you'll find a picture of the Playstation logo next to it, because they just keep doing the same thing over and over again.

[Curufinwe]

The new PSP was never going to use UMDs, so it's hard to be too upset about it.

[cplater]

I feel the same way as CheapyD when it comes to frustration in gaming. To be clear, I'll play the same section of a game over and over, and when I've had enough I put it down, and move on to something else. The next time I sit down to play, I'll do it again. If I still can't get past it, I wait a while longer. The next time I try, if I still can't get past it, the game goes onto my pile of shame to be played when there is nothing else to play.

Kameo was like this. It was the first game I started on the 360, and I got to a point where I was stuck. After many sessions of trying to figure it out I just put it on the shelf until this past Christmas.

To be honest, I'm at a spot on Mass Effect where the same thing is happening, and I'm about to put it up. The only thing keeping me trying is that I really want to get to Mass Effect 2.

[Zaku77]

I feel the same way as CheapyD when it comes to frustration in gaming. To be clear, I'll play the same section of a game over and over, and when I've had enough I put it down, and move on to something else. The next time I sit down to play, I'll do it again. If I still can't get past it, I wait a while longer. The next time I try, if I still can't get past it, the game goes onto my pile of shame to be played when there is nothing else to play.

Kameo was like this. It was the first game I started on the 360, and I got to a point where I was stuck. After many sessions of trying to figure it out I just put it on the shelf until this past Christmas.

To be honest, I'm at a spot on Mass Effect where the same thing is happening, and I'm about to put it up. The only thing keeping me trying is that I really want to get to Mass Effect 2.

If you didn't suck so much......KIDDING! Sorry, I had to lol

[monahawk217]

I just bought a new 3D sony bravia tv. Cheapy mentioned that the price difference between non-3D and 3D wasn't that big and he's right. The 3D tv I bought on Amazon was only about $100 more than what I had budgeted so I went for it. I'm more excited for the 3D games that the PS3 has lined up for this year than the movies coming out (e.g. Killzone 3, uncharted 3)


Great show title, I'm determined to use "Amazballs" at least 3 times this week.

[NinjaPenguin7]

Great show guys! I'd love to hear more about Two Worlds 2 on the next show if there's time for it. Definitely sparked my interest a bit since I never heard of it before this show.

[my2k2zx2]

So what's the significance of the Cagcast ending with "Bread's Done"?

[Gentlegamer]

For the green screen show name: CAG Looks

Seems obvious.

[Gentlegamer]

So what's the significance of the Cagcast ending with "Bread's Done"?Listen to CAGcast #200

[Davestation]

Earlier this month Microsoft announced that the 360 has sold 50 million consoles worldwide. Sony has sold 41.6 million worldwide since September 2010. So there are still a few months unaccounted for. You guys seem to just be looking at the North American Sony vs. Microsoft. North America is the only region where Microsoft has more that a million plus lead on the PS3. Though, you look at Japan Playstation is way more dominate in that region than what the 360 is here in the states. You guys are using that American Mentatlity that it is only America that counts and not Europe or Asia markets.

On another note, I believe that Microsoft is going to have another E3 like they did a few years ago where they are only going to show stuff that comes out this year. They do not have anything but Gears of War 3 (witch they moved from April to the fall since they did not have anything for the fall of 2011) as an exclusive. I would like to see what they have in store for E3 and hopefully we can see some great games instead of all this Kinect Bullshit!!

[rlse9]

I thought it was funny how Cheapy started selling how having a PSP2 that is as powerful as a PS3 could be really cool then the longer they talked about it, the worse the idea became. Rewind several years and it could have been the PSP and PS2...in fact, I remember hearing almost the exact same conversations somewhere about that back then.

I think the 3DS is too expensive as well. It needs to be under $200 before I'm interested. And I don't like the sound of the games being more expensive, too.

I hate to say it because I'm not a fan of the thought myself, but I think they might both be in trouble and the iPod Touch/iPhone may slowly take over...