Halo: Reach

Bungie's Final farewell
to loyal fans.

Synopsis:

     Set immediately before the events in the Halo series, Reach follows the last days of Noble Team, a team of 6 Spartan super soldiers charged with keeping the peace on what may very well be the most important planet in the Halo universe. After a brief introduction to the members of Noble Team, players assume the command of Noble 6, a faceless and mysterious soldier reassigned to work with the elite band of Spartans. Almost immediately the group is sent on their first mission as a new team: investigate what is supposed to be a small act of rebel sabotage that has caused a communication zone black out. It isn't long until Noble Team finds the reason for the downed communication and what should have been a brief recon mission turns into a fight for their lives as the six super soldiers are quickly overwhelmed with covenant forces and are forced to retreat and regroup. Before long, Noble Team discovers that it isn't a small Covenant battalion that's causing all the chaos but rather a full scale invasion fleet.

     For any not familiar with the Halo franchise, Reach does an excellent job of revealing the ultimate fate of the star-crossed world within the first couple seconds of the game. Before the action begins, players are shown the helmet of Noble 6 cracked and broken, lying in the dirt; a somber screen shot that sets the tone for the campaign. After all, Halo Reach is a tragedy.

     As the last hurrah for game developer Bungie with it's cash-cow of a video game child, Halo, its obvious developers wanted to pull out all the stops and go out with a bang, a goal they most definitely accomplished. 

Appearance:

Noble team looks the same in the
cinematics as they do in regular
gameplay.

     One of the joys of being loyal to a game series is being able to revel in the advancement of graphics as new titles are released. This latest installment from the universe of the Master Chief is no different. Just like we thought Halo 2's vistas trumped those of the original, and Halo ODST put Halo 3's visual appearance to shame, so does Reach do to the entire franchise. Bungie has once again shown that their dedication to the Halo series goes far beyond a bad-ass main character and that they're not above the extra grunt work of amping up the polygons to bring something as simple as an assault rifle to life.

To remind players just how scary
the Covenant was, even the Grunts
got a bit of a redesign.

    Aside from giving the scenery and weapons a facelift, Bungie took time to give makeovers to the Covenant as well. By tweaking the appearance of the Grunts, Elites, Jackals, and Brutes developers were able to remind players that before being humanized in Halo 2, the Covenant were a terrifying collective of alien races as ruthless and frightening as they were foreign.

Noble Team is about as diverse as 
any group out there.

     By setting the game on the never-before-seen world of Reach, during a time where there was more than just Master Chief running around and saving the galaxy, Bungie was given the opportunity to play around with what different Spartans might have looked like. From the no-nonsense Kat with her cybernetic arm to the battle-eager Emile donning a helmet with painted on skull, Noble Team is just about as diverse and eclectic as a Benetton ad. 

Game Play

   Whether intentional or not, much of Reach pays homage to the original Halo, most notably in gameplay and the overall feeling of "oh crap." Bungie has done an excellent job of giving players a sense of accomplishment after completing mission objectives, even though ultimately there's only so much they can do to delay the inevitable. 

Through use of the armory, players
can upgrade Noble 6's armor from
sweet to utterly bad ass.

     In an effort to distinguish Reach from other Halo incarnations and to offer fans something they've been begging for for a while, Bungie introduces the Armory. By using points earned through completing missions and dispatching Covenant forces, players may purchase new additions or upgrades to Noble 6's armor. Some upgrades are intended to effect gameplay, some are only meant to add a laugh, and some ultimately were included to just look sweet.

Classic Halo returns with a better
AI and greater weapon choices

     Arguably the best part of Reach would be the elimination of the Flood. Taking place before the discovery of the zombie-like flesh bags, players don't have to worry about running through a level in order to survive and can instead focus on executing some sort of strategy to overcome large groups of Covenant ground forces. 

     Through an enhanced computer AI, something as seemingly simple as driving around in a ghost and gunning down Grunts and Elites has become quite a bit more laborious as Elites will now strafe out of the way only to jump down from a boulder and commandeer the ghost for themselves. While this may annoy some, it makes the gameplay that much more dynamic without really effecting the difficulty.

Battling in space is just one of the
insanely cool additions brought
out in Reach

     Another means of switching up gameplay would be the introduction of vastly different levels such as piloting a helicopter from skyscraper to skyscraper as players dispatch Covenant units within, or rocketing off into low orbit to repel a Covenant Corvette Battlecruiser, marking the first time Halo's combat has included space battles.

By using the jet pack players can
get more than a leg up on the
competition

    When not participating in dogfights in zero gravity, players can also geek out by employing Bungie's other gameplay additions through the use of armor abilities. These tactical actions range from the well-known 'invisibility' to the lusted after 'jet pack' and the invaluable 'armor lockdown', an ability that causes the Spartan to remain still but gain invulnerability for several seconds. 

     Following the tradition of its predecessors, Reach introduces an array of new and impressive weapons for players to geek out over. Namely: a weapon that allows player to call down an air strike on a select target, dealing area damage and pretty much turning anything within the blast radius into scrap. 

The Covenant Skirmisher might
look like a jackal with a bad hair day
but they're so much more than that

    Another new addition to the Halo universe is the introduction of a new Covenant race, the Skirmisher. A subspecies of the Jackals, the Skirmishers are faster, stronger, and more agile and only the high-ranking units employ the use of shields which are much smaller than their Jackal cousins and used primarily to show rank than to provide actual protection. The Skirmishers are Bungie's perfect way of showing off their enhanced AI system. By attacking in packs and using flanking tactics, a player practicing tunnel vision might find himself quickly surrounded by the close-range, feather-maned killers.

Don't Change a Thing:

Noble Team seen here
communicating with Dr. Halsey

     Featuring impressive graphics, a compelling story and the ability to change Noble 6's armor, Reach might be the best thing to come out of the Halo franchise since the original grandaddy of them all Halo: Combat Evolved. Following in the traditions of the games before it, Reach is oozing with Halo lore, back stories, and cameos. By including the appearance of Doctor Halsey, the doctor responsible for the Spartan soldiers and everybody's favorite quirky AI Cortana, Reach delves a little deeper into the fiction that has made the entire franchise so irresistible. 

Should Have Spent More Time On:

     Aside from fumbling with dialog and voice acting here and there, and occasionally having to run around in a circle while waiting for the next checkpoint to be triggered, Reach is free of many of the headaches and nuisances of its predecessors. Ultimately, Bungie hit their marks when they brought us this delight of geek ambrosia. 

While the game is about rugged and
tough soldiers saving a planet
its surprisingly not all that gay.

Just How Homo:

     Despite having a team comprised almost entirely of vastly different male super soldiers to cater to just about anyone's type, its hard to check someone out through layer upon layer of battle armor. Although Jorge might be the perfect sensitive bear, Emile the notorious bad boy, Jun the level headed and calm thinking boy next door and Commander Carter the all around straight-edge take-charge jock, the fact that they are all wearing full body suits and concerned primarily with defending a doomed planet means players might as well be fawning over a gun-slinging robot.

Own it or Rent it:
     Some people simply don't enjoy an FPS, no matter how compelling the story or interesting the characters, if that is the case, then those poor close-minded souls should steer clear of Reach. For the rest of us who like a good story, or who just want to tag aliens with plasma grenades until the cows come home, Reach is most definitely an Own It. Any fan of multiplayer online gaming already knows how perfect the Halo series is for Xbox Live, add in all the new weapons, maps, and chances to T-bag a downed opponent and you'll agree that Bungie's grand finale was just that.

GAYmer Guide goes to Daisho Con 2010!

     This past weekend, GAYmer Guide went on the road to Daisho Con 2010 for its first ever appearance at a conference. Held annually in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, Daisho Con is an anime and gaming convention that could easily hold its own with some of the larger geek conference and conventions out there.
     In conjunction with the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point Gay-Straight Alliance, GAYmer Guide was set up at a booth in a prime location where conference goers could stop by and ask questions, browse merchandise, and view the blog first-hand. Not only was it great to see so many fearless nerds dressed up as their favorite anime or video game characters, but Daisho Con was a great opportunity to get the GAYmer Guide name out there and get some conference experience under our belt.
     Thank you Daisho Con attendees for showing us what it means to Live Proud and Game Hard!

Yuna from Final Fantasy X and a Chocobo!

An impressive hand-made Sailor Moon costume

Yet another Final Fantasy babe: Rikku!

The Yugi-oh gang

Fang from FF 13, with an impressive home-made staff!



Even the Galaxy's most feared bounty hunter was in attendance



Cloud and friend.

While he may not have anything to do with Anime or gaming
you just can't say no to a picture with Green Man

Fable III

Lionhead Studios returns
once again with yet
another Fable adventure.

Synopsis:

     After saving the world from the events of Fable II, the old hero, worried about the independant cities and villiages of Albion being able to resist another threat, united the land under on rule. Forming the Kingdom of Albion, the old hero was a generous and just ruler and ushered Albion into the beginnings of its industrial age. After his passing, the mantle of king was left to the eldest of his two children, his son Logan. Despite coming from an ancient lineage of strong and powerful heroes, Logan quickly turned into a cruel and sadistic tyrant: heavily taxing the people and forcing children to work in the dangerous factories of Bowerstone Industrial. After having to decide between the death of several innocent villagers, or an equally innocent best friend, the stories protagonist and the true hero escapes the castle at night. Realizing that Logan's tyranny must be stopped the Hero searches for those who would join the cause, and embraces his/her destiny as the next hero of Albion.

Logan, older brother to the story's

protagonist is just as dastardly as
he looks.

     Peter Molyneux and his cronies at Lionhead Studios have worked tirelessly to bring another action-packed adventure to the X-box 360. Filled with secret caves, hidden dig spots and plenty of Fable II throwbacks, its obvious that developers spent a great deal of time to make an already expansive game even larger. Just like the first two Fable's were drastically different from one another, so is this latest concoction from the mind of Molyneux different from its predecessors.

The detail in Fable 3 is nothing short
of stunning.

Appearance:

     While the Fable series has always had a very cartoon-esque appearance, developers have brought a great deal of detail to a seemingly animated world. From wood grain on a tavern table to detailed stitching on a military jacket, Lionhead has once again succeeded in bringing gamers a visually stunning masterpiece in their own stylization. Despite spending a great deal of time on the items in their world however, there are times where glitches with mapping and object placement snap player out of the fantasy they were in and remind them that they are still playing a video game. Players opting to help the local bakery by rolling out dough as a job might find themselves a bit unimpressed when the beautifully detailed pie tin is magically hovering a foot off the table to no one else's chagrin.

Whether playing as a male or female
character, Fable 3 boasts a wide
array of wardrobe choices

     A major grievance with Fable II was the serious down grading in the size of different wardrobe choices, players felt that every item available to wear was too similar and none of it suited an adventurer's lifestyle. Lionhead has done a beautiful job of responding to this by adding clothes of different styles and types, truly creating a versatile wardrobe that players are sure to mix and match until they find an outfit that perfectly fits the character they're looking to create.

     Arguably the best part of the Fable series is the character morphing: as player play through the game everything from their actions to their fighting style will effect the appearance of their hero. Lionhead has bumped it up an extra notch this game by allowing weapons to be effected by playing style. Evil players who delight in killing innocents will find their weapon exuding a red aura and dripping in blood, while good heros who specialize in magic rather than armed combat will find their weapons permanently glowing with blue will lines. Seeing as how the weapon is sheathed on the hero's back when not in use and therefore the most visible object equipped by the hero, weapon morphing is a welcome addition.

Despite looking utterly awesome,
character wings only make a brief
appearance towards the end.

     While players will be happy to see their weapons evolving, its apparent developers didn't spend as much time working on character morphing as much as we'd hoped and have actually downsized arguably the best part of the whole series. Molyneux and his nerd army have taken the fan-favorite devil horns for the evil doers and heavenly halo for the good guys and have given them a brief appearance only available at the end of the game. This is likely to leave most players feeling a bit cheated: one of the best parts of murdering an entire village was the chance to sprout some horns and get some wicked looking skin. Now any players looking to be evil will have to be satisfied with their hero growing extremely pale and gaining dark circles around their eyes, as this is the extent of the character morphing for the evil alignment.

Game Play:

Through use of the pause menu,
players can manage their properties
without having to visit them.

     Probably the biggest allure of picking up a controller and spelunking through Albion is the unique gameplay experience awaiting players. the Fable series has always been The Sims meets Diablo but with a Molyneux-inspired twist. Players short on cash can take up jobs as a bounty hunter or a lute player, or might be able to talk a vendor down from their steep prices through flattery or threats, each bearing its own consequence. From buying a house and raising a family, to owning a store and jacking up prices, every lifestyle the hero engages in will effect how other villagers and townsfolk react to him/her.

With the ability to reach out and
touch towns people, Fable 3
becomes a tad more real.

     One of the most pivotal aspects of the game is the hero's interaction with non-playable characters. Not only is a successful interaction with someone important for completing most quests, its necessary for any hero looking to set their sword on mantle for a while and take a crack at a relationship. To better bring these interactions to life Lionhead has included the aspect of touch, unavailable in the earlier games. Players can now hug a friend in need of companionship, grab an enemy by the throat and threaten him, or pick up a little girl and playfully toss her into the air. Probably the most ingenious renovation to the NPC interaction would be the throwing out of the "follow" command and the use of hand holding when needing to lead a person somewhere. Whether courting a young woman in town or dragging a peasant off to get sacrificed, holding someone's hand brings the game to life that much more.

While Albion may be vast, the

choices one has for conversation

are not.

     It should be said that NPC interaction is not all sunshine and roses. One thing Lionhead has succeeded in doing, whether intentional or not, is getting rid of choice. When conversing with a citizen of Albion, players will only have one of three choices: a nice gesture, an evil gesture, or a funny gesture. Gone are the days when a player could cluck at whomever he pleased and break into a chicken dance, they have instead been replaced by whatever means of interaction the computer randomly decides upon.

Fable 3 will still have plenty of action
but say goodbye to experience and
health points

     In an effort to make the game more adventure oriented and less of a monotonous RPG, Lionhead has done away with the health bar and experience points all together. In battle heroes who take too much of a beating will be knocked unconscious for several seconds then be able to get back up and continue the fray. Once ones foes have all been dispatched, players gain small points that add up to a Guild Seal. After obtaining enough Guild Seals, players can spend them on opening treasure chests located in the "Road to Rule." This poor attempt at a leveling system features abilities, additional gestures, and even important gameplay mechanics all available for purchase. Separated by gates, higher level abilities cannot be purchased until advancing so far in the story. Newcomers to the Fable series might not be bothered by this and instead might commend Lionhead for not allowing players to become too strong too fast. However, returning fans who liked to do things such as buy a house as soon as possible will have to advance in the story line for several hours in order to do so, as the "landlord" pack is only available past the second or third gate.



Voiced by John Cleese,
Jasper provides silly
whit to the world
of Albion



     While most of their renovations for the game have been hit or miss, one attempt at bettering the gameplay has hit its target at a bullseye. Players looking to change clothing, equip new weapons, spend Guild Seals, or check for downloadable content may do so by pressing "start" and entering The Sanctuary. Kept tidy by Jasper, the former butler of the old king now catering to the hero, The Sanctuary is essentially an interactive pause menu that has been well-written into the story line of the game as to be believable. Voiced by famous British actor John Cleese, Jasper brings the charm and silly whit to the game that our across-the-pond developers are notorious for.



Between the larger wardrobe and
the ability to interact with NPC's in
a whole new way, Lionhead added
.



Don't Change a Thing:

     Lionhead has done a marvelous job of responding to gamer complaints and suggestions and has revamped most of the aspects of the former game that were a cause for grievance. Also, by adding the aspect of touch to the game, Albion becomes that much more real as players are able to interact with villagers as never before.

Should Have Spent More Time On:

     It seems that every stunning addition made to the game was at the expense of an equally stunning former dynamic or aspect. By getting rid of the ability to choose a gesture in conversation, or by scaling down the hero morphing to make room for weapon morphing, Lionhead will have a great deal of explaining to do. Most players will probably wonder why the British developers couldn't have just kept the good stuff good, and changed what needed changing, rather than revamping all of it.

Just How Homo:

Finally, a game that gives gaymers
a chance to have their very own
'Happily Ever After'.

     Its hard to deny the homosexual street cred of a game that not only allows you to romantically pursue a member of the same sex, but also to buy a house together, get married and eventually adopt children. Throw in a pinch of character morphing and gaymers everywhere will be able to live out their fantasies of being a muscle-armed hero saving the world and finding love or a dark magic user with an appetite for seedy bars and even seedier men. 

  

Although its not perfect, Fable 3 is
still well worth the price and the
occasional head ache

Own It or Rent It:

     Despite grievances with developers choices, Fable III is a must-own game for anyone serious about maintain their reputation in the gaming world. New comers or those ignorant to the earlier Fables will most likely fall head over heals for this latest installment, while those returning to the world of Albion might find themselves a bit annoyed at times, but its nothing that can't be overlooked for the greater good of saving (or ransacking) the world.

Star Wars The Force Unleashed 2

Starkiller returns, or does he?

Synopsis:

     Picking up where the first one left off, The Force Unleashed 2 throws gamers straight into the twisted psyche and action packed reality of fan-favorite and force wielder extraordinaire Starkiller. Locked in a top secret cloning facility on the ocean world of Kamino, Vader's secret apprentice seems to have somehow made his way back from the grave. After a brief conversation Vader reveals that his wide-eyed and confused little puppet is nothing more than a clone of the original Starkiller, made to do Vader's bidding. While sparring with holigram training droids, our hero has a brief crisis of character after being commanded to strike down a droid resembling his former love Juno Eclipse. Upon seeing this, Darth Vader explains that the memories and feelings our protagonist feels towards Juno are nothing more than memory flashes of the original Starkiller implemented in the cloning process designed to train him better. Vader continues by saying that due to the accelerated cloning procedures many of the clones have gone mad, and that he is nothing more than a failed experiment and must be terminated. Confused and weary of the dark lord, the pseudo-Starkiller gives Vader a taste of force lightning before jumping out of the window and out on the run. Fighting through masses of imperials, our leading man escapes Kamino aboard Vader's own tie-fighter. Jetting through the galaxy amidst a civil war and unsure of his true origins, if he is the real Starkiller or not, our hero sets his sights on finding Juno and being with the woman he knows he loves.

Armored vehicles are nothing to an
angry and confused Jedi

     Despite coming dangerously close to interrupting Star Wars continuity, TFU2 tells a story unlike most games around and to some might be viewed as less of a game and more of an interactive theatrical treat. With the ongoing eternal struggle of Starkiller, mixed with the calamities of a feuding empire and rebellion players will find themselves getting lost in the fictional world and unable to put the controller down for anything less than reaching for the remote to turn up the volume.

And we thought Star Wars couldn't
look any better than it already does.

Appearance: 

     One of the most stunning things about TFU2 is the way it looks. From in-game graphics to rendered cut scenes and CGI cinematics, the Star Wars universe has never looked so polished. Just when we thought Starkiller and the gang were perfectly animated, LucasArts has somehow improved upon their realism with even more impressive facial gestures, movements, and interactions.

As players make their way through
groups of stormtroopers, the camera
will angle itself to follow suit.

     A previously-overlooked factor that now might be the new level of standard in games everywhere is the camera angles shown in TFU2. Every camera angle is set perfectly to portray the amount of danger Starkiller is currently experiencing. As players run across a narrow bridge the camera pans out to show just how high they really are, then switches to an arial view as masses of storm troopers close in from all sides. The views are so beautifully executed that players might now find themselves looking for similar features in games from here on out.

Even droids are taken down by a
blue lightsaber wielding Starkiller

     Like in the first FU, Starkiller unlocks new costumes as levels are completed. The costumes can then be warn throughout the levels. While wearing different costumes doesn't effect gameplay, there's something subtly awesome about seeing a dual-lightsaber-weilding Boba Fett force throw a rocket back at the AT-ST it came from.

Game Play:

     From the get go players will realize that although it shares the same title and 95% of the same developers as the first one, saying that TFU2 and its predecessor have the same gameplay is like saying Final Fantasy 1 and Final Fantasy 13 do as well. Sure they have the same general concept, but its obvious the latter has evolved far beyond the former.

Double the lightsabers for double
the devastation

     One impressive and subtle way of improving gameplay was the introduction of a second lightsaber. With two lightsabers Starkillers combat now allows for some moves and combos that ultimately are just sweet to execute. Also new this time around is the ability to actually sever an opponents appendage when coming into contact with it with one of the lightsabers. Even the most dedicated force pushers and lightning users will opt to do some literal hacking and slashing while waiting for their force bars to replenish.

Free fallin is just one of the many
ways developers have switched up
the gameplay

     Each level includes with it multiple challenges and missions designed to keep gameplay fresh, keep gamers enthralled and truly show off just how powerful Starkiller is. From protecting a high-speed hover train from a pursuing gunship, to standing at the helm of a battle cruiser while force throwing space debris out of the way, there's so much more to TFU2 than just taking on endless streams of imperials. Players will truly feel unleashed as they free fall hundreds of feet in the pouring rain while having to duck and weave past obstructions, or force push them out of the way.

The Gorog, just one of the epic boss
battle awaiting players.

     Even the boss battles have been bumped up several notches to fit a new and improved gameplay. While the battles are nothing short of epic, LucasArts has done a spectacular job of still making them beatable without taking away from their intensity. Taking on the Gorog amidst a crowded Cato Neimoidia gladiator arena might be the perfect example of just how intense TFU2 truly is.

With the right lightsaber crystal,
force lightning becomes even more
deadly

     Like its former, players will be able to pick up holicrons hidden throughout the game to increase their life or energy, gain force points, or unlock new lightsaber crystals. Each color crystal not only changes the appearance of the lightsaber, but allows for different effects such as health regeneration, amplified force damage, or better laser reflection. Wielding two lightsabers, players can mix and match colors to fit their playing style. Those looking to unleash devastation with matching lightsabers will have to find two of the same color crystal, as each holicron only carries one.

Don't Change a Thing:

Yoda and Starkillers paths cross
briefly while our hero searches
for the love of his life

     Each new Star Wars game has a two-part objective: sell tons of copies and give true Star Wars fans something to geek out about. TFU2 does that brilliantly. Aside from the gameplay, cameo appearances by Boba Fett and Yoda, and the fact that players are living out their force fantasies as a human bulldozer,   LucasArts expands Star Wars lore that much more by giving gamers a chance to explore Cato Neimoidia, the former ruling world of the droid army.

Starkiller comes face to face with
what very well could be a dark
version of himself.

Should Have Spent More Time On:

     While criticizing a game so seemingly perfect is nothing if not soul shattering, there are a few key factors that might leave gamers wanting. First and foremost, as a game that is solely one player with no compatibility for cooperative play, players might easily grow annoyed with the fact that the game takes a mere 6-7 casual hours to beat and ends with a fairly massive "what happens next?" feeling. Developers tried to make up for this by offering the traditional Light Side and Dark Side endings, requiring the game to be played through a second time  to see what happens either way. However this doesn't make up for the feeling of being cheated out of a full-length game. Aside from extending the gameplay, LucasArts could have offered a 2-player versus section in which players can dual one-another as souped up versions of Star Wars favorites, unleashed style.

     The only other grievance found with TFU2 was the rare overacting of one of the voice actors, namely that of Sam Witwer, Starkiller himself. While generally Witwer does an amazing job, there are times where all the man seems to be doing is yelling, even when the situation seems rather calm. We get that Starkiller's going through an internal struggle and trying to figure out if he's a clone or not, but while riding a sideways elevator to the bridge, he doesn't really need to be shouting his replies to his allies.

Just How Homo:

Gaymers everywhere can agree:
Starkiller has all the qualities of
the perfect man.

     While the game is about a Jedi unlike any other trying to track down his long-lost female love, gaymers can't help but fantasize about just how far to the Dark Side Starkiller is willing to go. Based entirely off of voice actor Sam Witwer, the former secret apprentice and his real-life counterpart are going to have to prepare themselves for a slew of gay fan-fiction. While we're not sure what it is about a tormented bad ass with a buzz cut and pouty lips that makes us sweat in all the right places, we sure aren't arguing.

While shorter than most games, TFU2
delivers on the action.

Own it or Rent it:

     Own it. Although TFU2 may be short, the punch it packs is enough to keep players coming back for more over and over again. Aside from being able to review data entries on the various planets and enemies Starkiller encounters, players are able to complete various challenges, allowing them to unlock more lightsaber crystals, costumes, and even new cinematics. Also, given the caliber of downloadable material released for its predecessor, TFU2 is bound to have some truly unleashed additions coming out in the near future.

Star Wars The Force Unleashed 2, The Graphic Novel.

Synopsis:

     Rather than follow the path of video game antagonist Starkiller, The Force Unleashed graphic novel instead chronicles the events of a not-yet famous Boba Fett. Interrupted while spending an evening with Xasha, the closest thing he might ever have to a girlfriend, Fett is contacted by none other than Darth Vader. Addressing the bounty hunter by name (suggesting familiarity) Vader informs Fett of his latest assignment, offering to pay three times his regular rate in exchange for the termination of a "Jedi of sorts." Having learned to despise the Jedi at a young age and being enthralled by the money, Fett sets out immediately to Cato Neimoidia, a rigid mountain planet and former battle spot of the Clone Wars. Upon arriving at the planet with Xasha in tow, it becomes instantly apparent that the Jedi he's after is no ordinary force wielder, but something far beyond. Through following the wake of destruction and eventually coming face to face with original characters from TFU, Fett is determined to complete his mission and secure his place as prominent bounty hunter in the galaxy.

     No stranger to the Star Wars galaxy, author Haden Blackman (writer of the original game and its sequel) teams up with Black Horse Comics one more time to bring readers yet another story of intrigue, betrayal and loss; recurring themes that seem to plague our favorite force sensitives and those around them. By following the path of Boba Fett, who apparently makes only brief appearance in the game, TFU2 graphic novel offers fans a different point of view: enough to show prospective players what sort of challenges they'll have to face without blatantly showing how or why. Blackman also succeeds in humanizing Boba Fett quite a bit, a move that will cause fans to either laminate the novel and cherish it forever, or burn it in a bonfire along with all things Jar Jar Binks. From showing Fett's softer side with would-be girlfriend Xasha, to his internal struggle with coming face-to-face with a tampered version of his father's clones, Fett is given heart, depth, and shown as more than just a gun slinging bounty hunter with a fancy for carbonite freezing.

     Despite how the story is told, its a gutsy move for Lucas Arts to bring Starkiller back, and TFU2 shows just how close they are to ruining universe continuity. While they may walk a fine line that is sure to ruin most fan fiction, they do it like pros with a short and sweet graphic novel that grows on readers over time.

Appearance:

     Artists Omar Francia and Manuel Silva are also seasoned veterans when it comes to the world of Star Wars comic books, and its apparent with their depictions of an armored Fett, fully decked out Xasha, and some of the vehicles and weapons shown throughout the comic book. However, while their strong suit is definitely well-executed Star Wars throwbacks, faces of our beloved characters from both TFU and the original Star Wars universe are often hard to decipher without first glancing at the clothes they're wearing. It could be argued that the drawing duo never once looked at Starkiller's face, and that their idea of Juno Eclipse is just any lady with long blonde hair. 

     Another grievance with the artwork are the battle scenes. Often times its rather unclear as to what exactly the artists are trying to convey, especially in panels with no dialog boxes. Most of what's occurring is left to the reader's imagination: "is Starkiller using a force dash or is he deflecting the laser blast with his mind?" 

    Ultimately, the animation in the graphic novel is far from laughable, but might give fans who are already disgruntled with the return of a dead man just one more reason to complain. 

Don't Change a Thing:

     By following the tale of Fett, rather than Starkiller himself, Dark Horse has given readers a temporary TFU fix without giving away every part of the game -- a grievance with the first graphic novel that was discovered all too late. Its unclear if the ending of the comic book is the same ending point for the game, so those not wanting to risk any major spoilers had best wait to play the game before reading the graphic novel. By featuring planets not normally mentioned in Star Wars pop culture, fans will delight in the opportunity to get a glimpse at other planets that are normally overlooked, though only for a page or two. 

     Overall TFU2 is an easy read filled with action and "Holy crap!" moments that fans of just the series, comic book junkies, or newbies to both are going to get a kick out of. 

Should Have Spent More Time On:

     Despite its overall enjoyment, artists could have spent more time on actually making sure the characters look like they do in the game. Just because he wear the same clothes, has short dark hair and answers to the name of Starkiller doesn't mean he's the same hero that we love to watch shock the bejesus out of stormtroopers.

Just How Homo:

     While Boba Fett has never been one to get most hot and bothered, gaymers will appreciate the first couple pages in which Fett walks around in little more than a tank top and cargo shorts. In addition to humanizing the ruthless killer, it seems creators of the graphic novel also wanted to remind readers that underneath the armor Fett has a body as good as any object of nerd affection. 

Own it or Rent it:

     Due to its cost, the high probability that readers will scan the pages over and over, and the fact that its a decent story line, buying this little nugget of nerdiness is the best bet for any fan of comic books or the Star Wars series. Priced at roughly $12.00 brand new, its well worth the money. Given the ending of the novel, it would come as a surprise if Dark Horse didn't plan on releasing yet another chapter in the story, making this one a must-have for any geeks hoping to be up-to-date on their Star Wars knowledge. 

Final Fantasy: The 4 Heroes of Light

The 4 Heroes of Light. Its funny how
a game so small, can pack so many
frustrations. 

Synopsis: 

     Having just turned 14, Brandt, the stories main protagonist, is sent to appear before the king and declare himself a man; as is customary in his village. Upon arriving at the castle our hero discovers that the king's daughter has been kidnapped by the Witch of the North and is being held in the Witch's castle. Venturing out, Brandt soon encounters Jusqua, a mysterious boy with silver hair who agrees to accompany him on his quest to retrieve the king's daughter. Making their way through a pitch black cave and eventually into the Witch's castle, it isn't long until the insufferable Princess Aire and her faithful guardian Yunita join the party and the gang engages in their first boss battle against the Witch of the North. After the battle, it is revealed that our rag-tag bunch of misfits are none other than the 4 Heroes of Light who are destined to save the world from the encroaching darkness.

Heroes gear up for their first boss
battle: The Witch of the North

     Developed by frequent FF partner Square Enix, Final Fantasy: The 4 Heroes of Light is what happens when video game nostalgia meets modern technology. While including age-old elements such as classic-style leveling and the ability to equip armor and weapons, The 4 Heroes will be a game fans of the earliest FF incarnations might instantly fall in love with. However with its painfully dull story line, the need to talk to everyone in town before continuing with said story, and the fact that players should anticipate about 2 hours of level grinding between each adventure, most will opt to send the game back where it came from and play something more worth their time.

Brandt wearing
the Dark
Fencer Crown

     Not wanting to make an exact rip-off of the earlier FF's, developers have added the new Crown System, a job choosing interface in which players choose the roles for their characters by having them wear crowns acquired throughout the game. Each crown includes a special ability or talent, adding differentiation: the White Mage crown allows players to use less ability points when using white magic, while the Wayfarer crown allows players to use the ability "run away" to flee the battle. Crowns can then be "upgraded" by socketing them with gems obtained from battles. Once a crown has been fully socketed, a new ability becomes available. While the crown system is a well thought out idea, its not enough to entice gamers to keep pushing on and dealing with the game's many shortcomings.

Appearance:

Brandt wearing
the Merchant
Crown

     Despite so many things wrong with 4 Heroes, the game's graphics should receive nothing short of a standing ovation. Developed exclusively for the Nintendo DS, its obvious that Square Enix really took their time to bring the game to life, visually speaking that is. From the moment players look into the virtual world its impossible not to notice the unique and artistic look that Japanese artist Akihiko Yoshida has brought to the game. Cartoon enough to be whimsical, yet detailed enough to be imaginable, 4 Heroes really finds a nice balance to bring the game into the age bracket gray area. Both children newcomers and seasoned adult FF fans will be enticed by the game's appearance.

     Adding to the look of the game is the ever changing appearance of the characters. Each new crown brings an entirely new look to its wearer, breaking down the monotony of the story quite a bit. In addition, each item being equipped will also show up on the character in battle and while exploring. Players might find themselves opting to wear a slightly weaker item and dealing with the reduced stats, simply because it looks better.

Players will have to
choose between
equipment or healing
items. 

Game Play:

     Games like 4 Heroes are the reason DS insurance should exist: after perpetually running out of potions and getting slaughtered battle after battle, players wont think twice before throwing their handhelds at the wall. Each hero has a limited amount of room in their inventory to store belongings, while items currently being equipped continue to take up space. Also, spells such as Fire or Cure require the hero to hold a spell book, effectively reducing the space in one's inventory by however many spells they'd like to be able to use. This all combined makes for an extremely limited amount of space for potions and phoenix downs, making it highly likely that players will run out and eventually get slaughtered by monsters much stronger than their heroes. The only way around this almost certain outcome is for players to do hours of level grinding at the start of the game, and then again after each quest. However, even with stronger heroes, players still have only so much space for healing items, meaning every boss battle will have to be attempted many times before success.

The new AP System in
action. Not too well
thought out.

     By doing away with mana and introducing the new "AP System" developers have successfully brought us a title we will forever see in our nightmares. Characters can have up to five Ability Points, which are used to perform certain attacks or abilities in battle. After each turn one ability point is replenished, those looking to replenish ability points faster must opt to not attack for one turn and instead choose to "Boost". This causes the selected hero to go into a defensive state, taking less damage but also dishing out no damage for the turn and only gaining one extra ability point. Also, due to the AP system, players can not use abilities such as Cure outside of battle to restore health and must rely solely on potions while exploring or healing while in battle to maintain adequate HP levels.

     One neat feature for the game however is the ability to combine multiple heroes' attacks onto the same target to deal drastically more damage. However, this is a randomly occurring phenomenon that has nothing to do with the actions of the player -- who has no say in what opponent characters attack to begin with. Its almost as if developers introduced the idea, decided it made the game actually beatable, and therefore opted to only make it happen once in a great while.

Don't Change a Thing:

     Even when developed for systems like the DS, Final Fantasy games constantly remind us that they are the reigning champs of visual attraction in the virtual world. Players wont get bored with seeing their heroes' appearance constantly changing and improving and for some it might just be enough to continue playing.

The 4 Heroes off to save
the world and get on
our nerves.

Should Have Spent More Time On:

     With its many follies and headaches waiting to happen, 4 Heroes is nothing if not a bitter awakening to video game developers: just because it worked 15 years ago, doesn't mean its going to work today. By attempting to create a game so jam-packed with FF nerd nostalgia, Square Enix seems to have forgotten that the elements of a game that once passed as enjoyable have long since become outdated and annoying. If they're so intent on bring up blasts from the past they should stick to re-releasing the original FF's rather than trying to create a brand new title that will send geeks everywhere heading for the hills.

Just How Homo:

Some gaymers might
enjoy constantly
changing characters
outfits but not enough
to keep playing.

     Its hard to find any sort of allure with a game that delves into a cartoon-esque world. All male characters in the game resemble pale-skinned twinks rather than the muscly heroes gaymers are so fond of. While some gaymers might enjoy constantly equipping new items and crowns on their heroes to find the perfect look, more design satisfaction could be found from games like The Sims.

Own it or Rent it:

     While it is strongly suggested that players not waste their time and brain cells, those looking to get their hands on 4 Heroes are best off renting it. While most die-hard gamers have a special place in their heart for Final Fantasy titles, this is one that should definitely be overlooked. With attempts at the third quest nearing triple digits, players will be happy they didn't spend the extra money on owning a title that is better suited collecting dust on a store shelf. Final Fantasy developers had better do something to bring us back after this latest title, or we might have to change their abbreviation from FF to F-.