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Saturday

Assassin’s Creed Pirates Review



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I'm a console kid. I spent the better part of my gaming adolescence behind an oddly shaped N64 controller, digging in to hours-long story games. So it stands to reason that after college nights of Bioshock and Fable installments that my taste for mobile gaming would surround similar breadths of story franchises. The Assassins franchise is as detailed as they come, and with the mobile installment Pirates, I found myself pleasantly surprised. Before I knew it I was spinning ships' wheels and pillaging rival ships on the touchscreen with as much fervor as I would on my 360. But it didn't come without its share of letdowns.
The format of this plot-based action game does feel similar to most of its kind. You spend the better part of the saga steering your ship—either physically with the wheel or from a birds' eye vantage point dragging lines on a map. Battles with enemy ships are turn-based with time-sensitive tap methods that RPG fans are familiar with. There are also racing challenges, loot-finding puzzle excursions and some seriously tough boss battles. And while spinning your wheel, launching your cannons and scoping out enemies through your looking glass might seem like an immersive experience, the plot game seems to spin its own wheels a bit with a little too much repetition.
The ship battles themselves, while fun, lie somewhere between dodge-heavy arcade games and turn-based RPG games, complete with attack cool-downs and move timing. So while the combat does lend itself well to the small screen, it doesn't promise anything groundbreaking. And to be honest, after the initial "this is pretty fun" moments, I found myself wanting more, expecting to feel more of a connection with my pirate's ship as it gained crew members and experiences. But I didn't.
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The XP and crew upgrade system is where the game shines, if only for brief moments. As you complete chapters, gain gold and build XP, you can add crewmembers to your ship, thus equipping yourself with gameplay perks (quick speed bursts, wider attack range, etc.). So there's a satisfying degree of strategy as you pick and choose new abilities.
As for the story … there really isn't much of one. Plot points feel tacked-on, with cutaway dialogue boxes and interconnected zones to explore. It's an odd experience from a franchise that bases almost its entire tenure on rich stories, open-world fields and essentially unbound exploration. But this game lacks the open seas that are so exciting in the franchise's console counterparts—they even released Black Flag this year to quench fans' thirst for pirate pillaging. In Pirates, however, you start out out as an "up-and-coming" pirate who traverses finite zones (bays, cays, etc.) to collect treasure, complete missions and defeat adversaries—including a few afterthought run-ins with Templars and Assassins. That's pretty much it.
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The game makes for a solid subway commute distraction, that also maintains the ability to offer a few 3-hour stints of binge gaming, but don't expect to linger long on this limited little touchscreen tapper. At the end of the day, it's just too repetitive. The finite RTS map exploration and the open-field sailing don't always play well together. The ship combat ultimately feels canned and limited by the game's end, and the story itself doesn't offer anything rich to latch onto. But even with all that, I do think it succeeds in the mobile sphere, as a casual title, rather than the core title many players will no doubt be expecting. I'm docking points strictly because the franchise as a whole didn't deliver. But fire this game up during your next voyage… er train ride and you'll be entertained. But if you do, be warned: you're in for a shallow ride.
Assassin's Creed Pirates Review Jason Schneider
Summary: A repetitive little game from a titan franchise that ultimately falls short of its bigger console brothers.

Devil's Third Arriving On Mobile This Year


It's been a while since we've heard anything regarding Devil's Third, the latest project from Ninja Gaiden creator Tomonobu Itagaki. However, it recently resurfaced, with news that it's headed to iOS and Android sometime this year.
Speaking with 4Gamer, Itagaki provided an update on the game, stating that it's nearing completion. "Next year will be the year we'll be releasing the console game, Devil's Third. At the moment, it is about 80 percent complete, and we can about see the end of it," stated Itagaki late last year. "However, there's still a little more polishing that needs to be done. That's also one of the reasons I've decided to work independently.
"For you fans out there, I'd like to apologize for making you worry," he concluded. "We'll be going all out next year, so please look forward to it."
 
No word yet on who will be publishing Devil's Third - it was originally being handled by THQ, but that company folded due to bankruptcy - but we should have more information soon.
At least it's finally coming.

Bravely Default Demo Available For Nintendo 3DS


Although this week's eShop update isn't heavily loaded with new content - the Pokémon Bank and Transporter were delayed - we do have something to keep us busy over the next week.
Nintendo released a playable demo for the forthcoming role-playing adventure Bravely Default. The game features awesome turn-based combat, as well as a risk/reward system that factors in to how your character grows over the course of the adventure. In addition, the demo comes with exclusive content that won't be included in the final release.
 
Bravely Default arrives in stores and on the eShop February 7th. It's already looking like one of the biggest releases of the year, so be sure to download the demo.

Friday

New Galaxy S5 and F



Back in September 2013, we heard rumors about a new premium phone from Samsung with the name "Project F". They had planned a release in the second quarter of 1014. But now we know that they might launch it alongside with the Galaxy S5, under the name Galaxy F according to ET News.
The most reliable rumors say that the body of the Galaxy F will feature a metal body. It was originally developed in Europe but was later moved to Vietnam for mass production.

Older rumors believe it's also possible that the phone will feature a QHD display (2560 x 1600) and other premium components that set it in a league higher than the S series. Samsung has not confirmed anything of this so these are major speculations.

If this will be successful is hard to say, having in mind that Samsung already have many devices in the S series and other mid and low end phones. Many Samsung consumers say they enjoy the plastic around the phone, but others may prefer metal. Who knows, maybe this is Samsungs way to please both groups.


Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed Cheats And Tips


Even though its freemium structure gets in the way more often than not, Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed is a moderately enjoyable kart racing game. On that note, we have a few tips that will help you earn first place victories.
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How do I use the firework power-up in Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed?
This is a simple firework projectile that can stop your enemies in one hit. To fire it ahead of you, tap the power-up and swipe upward. To shoot it behind you, tap it and swipe downward.
How do I use the Blowfish power-up in Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed?
The blowfish works similar to a mine, as you can either drop it behind you to hit enemies or lob it ahead, though that puts it in your path as well. To do this, tap your finger on the power-up and either swipe upward or downward.
How do I use the Ice power-up in Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed?
This gives you three quick ice shots that you can use to stop your enemy cold. (Get it, cold? Because it's ice...never mind.) To shoot, simply tap on the power-up and swipe upward to shoot forward, or downward to shoot behind you.
How do I use the Glove power-up in Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed?
This protects you from incoming attacks for a small amount of time. To activate it, simply tap the power-up icon and it'll pop up.
How do I use the Drone power-up in Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed?
This is the equivalent of a homing missile, and works best on enemies ahead of you. Simply tap on the power-up and fire it upward, and it'll lock on to your closest adversary. You can also shoot it behind you when swiping downward, though it doesn't have lock-on capabilities going that way.
How do I use the All-Star power-up in Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed?
You won't get this power-up all the time, but when you do, activating it will give you a higher amount of speed and let you run right through opponents. To use it, just tap the power-up when you're ready. NOTE: it's best to save it for a final lap, in case you're running behind.
How can I earn turbo boosts in Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed?
There are four ways. The first is picking up a general power-up boost after running over one of the question bowls. Just tap the power-up to use it.
The second is with power strips that are colored pink and littered all over the tracks. Run over or through these and you'll get a quick boost.
The third is with tricks. You perform tricks in mid-air by swiping on the screen after coming off a jump. Land these tricks successfully and you'll earn a boost.
Finally, there's drifting. If you take corners tight enough without hitting the walls - by hitting the drift button without losing any acceleration - you'll begin to earn power. This can be leveled up to three times, so the longer you drift, the more boost you'll earn. For some events, you'll actually need to master drifting in order to complete the race.
Can I earn additional power-ups in Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed?
Yes, before each race, you'll have the option to use either rings or stars in your possession to play a quick jackpot event. You can play anywhere between one to three reels to earn power-ups. These take effect during your next race, so use them as soon as you can.
How do I earn rings and stars in Sonic & Al-Stars Racing Transformed?
You'll need to complete races in order to earn stars and rings. If you get first place, you'll really clean up, though you'll also earn them in second and third place as well. These are used to unlock other content in the game, including additional drivers, certain events and difficulty settings.
Do I need to buy anything in Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed?
The game does provide an option where you can buy stars ranging from $4.99 to $19.99, depending how many you want. Stars can then be used to unlock content, or converted into rings to gain access to new difficulty settings. These give you the opportunity to earn more stars and rings, though you'll want to get through the easy races first.
There's also the option to buy direct content through the game, such as being able to race in any event on any difficulty for $9.99, or unlocking character packs ranging from $4.99 to $9.99, such as "Rivals" or "Villains." It's completely optional, though.

Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed iPad Review



After releasing on consoles in 2012 to great success, Sega brought Sonic & All Stars Racing Transformed to mobile devices. It isn't precisely the same game - some events are limited to one type of vehicle, instead of "transforming" at different times in the race - but the cast line-up and track offerings come straight from the original. If you ever wanted to drive around with Wreck-It Ralph in the Panzer Dragoon universe, here's your chance.
The Good
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For the most part, Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed features impressive graphics. The 3D environments look good on tablet devices, and the characters are fun to watch as they win races and use power-ups. The controls, meanwhile, are excellent, whether you prefer tilting, on-screen joystick or using a secondary controller; the controller is your best bet, followed by virtual controls. The game also contains plenty of value, between online multiplayer, which isn't bad, and a huge plethora of events to unlock.
The Bad
Unfortunately, the bad outweighs the good with All-Stars. First, Sega added a strenuous pay wall that requires you to drop cash on stars and rings to unlock higher difficulty settings or additional content, including a VIP pass. This is on top of the $4.99 price tag. It's not necessary to unlock events, but Sega should've just thrown it in for a flat rate. In addition, the game consistently freezes up, throwing off not only your momentum in the race, but also your control. We can't tell you how many times we crashed. It's irritating.
The Verdict
Had Sega simply bumped up the price and included everything in one shot, Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed would've been just as well received as its console counterpart. Instead, due to an unfair currency system and technical hiccups, it loses control.

Top 50 iPhone And iPad Games Of 2013: 10-1


10. XCOM: Enemy Unknown
Many mobile-only games have proudly flown the flag for the platform this year, but we can't help but be excited at the prospect of even more world-class ports appearing on phones and tablets. XCOM is one of the best examples of this latter category of games - a superbly creepy tactical strategy game that's barely lost a thing in translation.

9. FIFA 14
EA added a radical twist to the mobile FIFA formula this year by including a new control system that removes virtual buttons, and allows you to make more strategic swipes to control all of the on-pitch action instead. The original controls are still there if you prefer, but we think these changes - along with a beefed up Ultimate Team mode - make FIFA 14 the best mobile soccer game yet.

8. Angry Birds Star Wars 2
Rovio knows a good thing when it's onto it, and the sequel to the hugely popular Angry Birds Star Wars packs in everyone from Yoda to Darth Maul. There are fun tools to utilize too, from magnets to wrecking balls, and there's even the option of scanning in retail figurines for additional gameplay. The Force continues to be strong with this one.

7. Limbo
There's simply nothing left to be written about the original PC and console editions of indie masterpiece Limbo. For this mobile version, it's enough to remark that the developers have done an excellent job of porting the entire game over to touchscreens, and you'll not miss a beat when it comes to directing this lost soul through the dark and devilish world that lies ahead of him.

6. Infinity Blade 3
We knew Infinity Blade 3 would have outstanding graphics - that was a given. What we didn't expect were two playable characters with unique fighting styles, along with The Hideout, a hub-style world that lets players pick and choose whichever missions they wish to complete. Factor in the same user-friendly touch controls we've grown accustomed to, along with new Clashmob missions, and your left with a third series entry that's an instant favorite.

5. Bit.Trip Run
It seemed like we'd been waiting forever for Gaijan to bring its wonderfully colorful, yet teeth-gnashingly frustrating rhythm runner games to mobiles. In Bit.Trip Run we get a very welcome remix of the Runner sequel released on the PC platform earlier this year. As with Joe Danger, touchscreen capabilities are pushed to their limits - but no further - in order to deliver one of the most moreish games we've played all year.

4. Plants Vs Zombies 2
PopCap Games' long-awaited sequel is nothing short of brilliant. It not only takes the gameplay that worked so well in the original, and refreshes it with new enemies and plants, it also does so with a best-in-class free-to-play formula. Throw in plenty of demanding - yet fun - challenges and extra power-ups, and you can see why the developers deserve their high-ranking spot in our Games of the Year honors list.

3. Asphalt 8: Airborne
As well as nailing the racing scene in 2013 with GT Racing 2, Gameloft also churned out an arcade driving game that's every bit its equal. Asphalt 8: Airborne takes everything that worked in earlier games, and amps the gameplay up considerably with more cars, more high-flying stunts, and more courses. It's free-to-play now too, so it won't cost you anything to take this gorgeous game out for a test drive.

2. Joe Danger Touch
Joe Danger picked up our first 5 out of 5 score of 2013 when we reviewed the game way back in January, and deservedly so. Rather than attempting to awkwardly shoehorn the controls and content of the original console versions onto phones and tablets, this mobile edition makes a virtue of touchscreens like few others have managed. A superbly addictive arcade game that everyone needs to own.

1. Ridiculous Fishing
There's never a shortage of lively debate when we come to compile our top 50 games at the end of each year, but when it came to awarding our highest accolade, the verdict was unanimous. In Ridiculous Fishing, Vlambeer polishes two mini-games to perfection, then blends them together into an end result that's far greater than the sum of its parts.

Thursday

Banana Kong Review

 

Happy New Year fellow gamers!
Now when you first play this game, you might think that this game is some cheap Donkey Kong rip off, but the game also does take cues from Jetpack Joyride and Temple Run, and believe it or not but the game itself is not all that bad.
Now in Nintendo's Donkey Kong Country, Kong in the game is obsessed with getting well….bananas. And in Banana Kong is pretty much the same concept. except in this game is an endless runner, and you collect bananas, there is so much that his massive stockpile of yellow fruit is becoming a hazard. It topples over, causing a banana avalanche that Kong needs to outrun, thereby triggering the endless running which is the focus of the game.
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Just like with other endless runners you will just sprint automatically, with a tap causing him to jump in the air. Holding your finger down allows Kong to float a short distance, while swiping to the right unleashes a devastating shoulder charge that smashes through obstacles blocking the path. Colliding with one of these objects – or falling foul of other hazards, such as vast pools of water – brings Kong's dash to an end.
The level in Banana Kong is actually divided into four layers. The basic, jungles, and three sub-levels that can be accessed by performing banana dash in the correct places. For example, there is an underground level, in which the aforementioned hog can be found. It can smash through any obstacles and give bonus bananas for it. Each level has its own interesting mechanics, design, and hazards, branching the basic gameplay in different directions.
Banana Kong's presentation is excellent throughout, with an attractive 2D art style that apes (pun absolutely intended) the look of the aforementioned Donkey Kong Country. Kong's expressions are priceless, and practically worth the purchase price alone.
The core gameplay is equally agreeable, although it's hard to fight the feeling that we've seen this all before. Banana Kong doesn't really do anything especially new or inventive, and as a result it doesn't take long for the appeal of those charming visuals to wane and for repetition to set in.
Banana Kong is just like any other endless runner at the Google Play Store and it is sad to say that it does not offer anything really new, but it is still a fun game to play and if you are an fan of Donkey Kong, endless runners, and have a sweet tooth for bananas, then there will be no harm in downloading this free game onto your Android device. 
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Top 50 iPhone And iPad Games Of 2013: 20-11


20. Star Wars Pinball
We knew Star Wars Pinball was in great hands the moment we saw that pinball masters Zen Studios was behind the project. The developer won us over with imaginative tables - complete with classic music and sound effects - inspired by The Empire Strikes Back, The Clone Wars and Boba Fett. Three new post-release tables boosted the game's appeal even further, making it one of the best mobile pinball games you can get.
 

19. Scurvy Scallywags
It takes a lot for a match-three game to stand out on the App Store, but Ron Gilbert and co have packed so much charm and content into this gorgeous looking game that we think you'll be won over instantly. Sail the seven seas in search of the ultimate sea shanty, and don't forget to grab plenty of booty along the way too.

18. Quell Memento
If we had one criticism of Quell Memento when we reviewed the game, it's that there's so much variety to the puzzling twists that each one doesn't get enough time to really shine. Still, it's a nice problem to have if we're honest, and even if the story's a little hokey, we guarantee you'll lose at least a couple of days to this magnificent puzzle game.

17. AVP Evolution
Hollywood might have thus far failed to make a quality Alien vs. Predator movie, but the franchise thankfully fares much better in the video game world. This gruesome iOS and Android outing let's you play as either creature, and make use of each one's special attacks too. Throw in plenty of marines to slaughter, customizable parts to choose from, and exceptional graphics and special effects, and you've got a game that Fox Digital can be proud of bringing to grim life. Game over? It's just begun!

16. Might & Magic Clash Of Heroes
Describing Might & Magic Clash of Heroes as a match-three game doesn't even really come close to doing this magnificent strategy puzzle game justice. Exemplifying the principle of easy to learn, hard to master, Clash Of Heroes will lead you gently by the hand towards one of the deepest and most satisfying puzzle experiences available for mobiles and tablets.

15. Talisman Prologue
Talisman Prologue won't be to everyone's tastes, but if you're a fan of old-school fantasy gaming, it'll be a case of love at first sight with this digital take on Games Workshop's tabletop classic. Even newcomers are well catered for here with a gentle introduction to each class, so if you've shied away from this sort of game before, Prologue is the perfect opportunity to get acquainted with the genre.

14. GT Racing 2
There's a fair quantity of solid racing simulators on the App Store, but Gameloft's GT Racing 2 really stood out this year. Featuring a number of realistic car models, user-friendly controls and a variety of courses to challenge your every racing skill, no other game comes as close to replicating a console-like racing experience on the go. Real Racing 3 and 2K Drive may have kept you busy throughout the year, but be sure to make time for this great racer as well.

13. NimbleQuest
Plenty of old games get a modern lick of paint, but we never thought Snake would make the list. Yes, the ancient cell phone title makes a triumphant comeback in NimbleBit's addictive effort, and while it plays very similarly to the original, the developer injects unique role-playing elements to make the game really stand out. Instead of creating the biggest snake possible, you must instead collect heroes with special abilities, while defeating waves of enemies. What's old is indeed new again.

12. Dead Trigger 2
Yes, it's largely a case of more of the same for this sequel to Madfinger's blockbuster first-person shooter, but when the action's this good, we're more than happy to simply get stuck into a fresh batch of highly splatterable zombies. This free-to-play shooter is one of the best in the genre, and it deserves a home on every iOS or Android device.

11. Star Wars Knights Of The Old Republic
Knights Of The Old Republic is one of the few games to have ever really done the Star Wars license justice, and we were bowled over when this stellar RPG appeared on the App Store without any fanfare whatsoever. You'll need to own an iPad if you want to play the game, but if that's you, don't hesitate to lay down the cash in exchange for immersing yourself in one of the all-time RPG greats.

Top 50 iPhone And iPad Games Of 2013: 30-21


30. Despicable Me: Minion Rush
The endless runner genre was fast running out of steam by the time Minion Rush came around, but thankfully the game added some desperately needed variety to the typical gameplay. Varied environments and obstacles make this one of the best runner games you can get for your phone or tablet - and the app store charts tell their own story of the game's success.
 

29. Sonic Dash
Sega's decision to release an endless running Sonic game didn't exactly surprise its fans - if anything, they wondered why it took so long. Sonic Dash leans on concepts we've seen countless times before, but it's so polished that we simply don't care. Fast-paced and one heck of a good time, we spend countless hours running and jumping through the game's environments while destroying enemies with Sonic's Homing Attack. The fact that we can also play as Tails and Knuckles is just an added bonus.

28. Rayman Fiesta Run
In offering more of the same, Fiesta Run couldn't help but fall into the shadow of its predecessor Jungle Run. Still, what a shadow that was, and the sequel offers up another dollops of all the superb platforming design and artwork you'd want from a sequel. Fans of the original game shouldn't hesitate to grab the game over the festive period.

27. Device 6
If 'weird and wonderful' had a dictionary definition, Simogo would be the ones scribbling away at the entry, and this follow-up to the surreal Year Walk delivers on both of these descriptions. Twists await around every turn in this journey through the written word...

26. Riptide GP2
The original Riptide GP fast became one of our favorite racing games on mobile, and this year's sequel provided excellent tilt controls, customizable vehicles and fantastic visuals. Prepare to witness some of the finest graphics on iOS and Android devices, and while the tracks are full of impressive detail, it's the water that really steals the show.

25. Type:Rider
Like Device 6, Type:Rider looks to the written word for its inspiration, but this time in a much more literal sense. This strange puzzle game is set within the history of typography, from caveman scribblings on cold stone walls, all the way to the modern-day digital era. A beautiful and mesmerizing puzzle game.

24. Rymdkapsel
Officially 2013's least enjoyable game name to type, Rymdkapsel has nevertheless been one of our favorite games to actually play this year. This starkly minimalist strategy game is a masterclass in design economy, and while the experience might be a little short, the memory of it will last a lifetime.

23. Sonic The Hedgehog
If you know your App Store history, Sonic the Hedgehog might seem like a weird addition to this best-of list. The original port was disappointing to say the least, and so SegA joined forces with developer Christian Whitehead - the talented designed behind the Sonic CD mobile port - to make the title really shine. The end result is a fully remastered version that runs in widescreen at 60 frames per second. Sonic's never looked so good.

22. Star Wars: Tiny Death Star
If you were being slightly uncharitable, you might just look at Tiny Death Star and see a licensed cash-in on the success of NimbleBit's breakout title Tiny Tower. Look a little deeper though in this case. While the core gameplay is very, very similar to that earlier game, the Star Wars flavoring has been applied with a huge amount of love, and there's enough new gameplay content included to make this an essential download for even the most jaded Tiny Tower fan.

21. Stickets
Like the equally excellent Rymdkapsel, Stickets is another masterclass in building compelling complexity from the most basic of building materials. You'll have to very carefully position tetrominoes in a limited play area to clear screen real estate, and while it's simple to grasp, high score glory will take a surprising amount of strategy and planning.