As a Survival Horror fan and a huge Resident Evil fan I am constantly hearing from gamers that Resident Evil is no longer a Survival Horror franchise. The fan boy in me cringes at these remarks, but I must admit the basic themes of this franchise have been through a major revamp. Progressively, the series has shifted away from its Horror themes. I am not dropping any bombs here and saying Resident Evil 5 is not a Survival Horror game but what I will say is that this franchise is not as scary as it used to be.

5.) Where are the Zombies?

This is the big question fans have been asking since Resident Evil 4.  Resident Evil was originally THE ZOMBIE GAME, which made it terrifying. A putrefying corpse that knows nothing but hunger used to scare the crap out of me as a kid. Back in 1996 when the game was released Zombies were scary, now they are a novelty. Which is part of the reason they were nixed from the franchise I am sure.

Instead of Zombies in Resident Evil 4 and 5, we have LIVING individuals who are injected with parasites that attack the brain, making them totally psycho. The parasites continue to grow to the point of bursting from the head, killing the host. Although the concept of human experimentation is still quite frightening, I think the idea of a foreign entity growing in a person to the point of bursting out of them has been a long time Science Fiction theme. Alien is perfect example of this, although the splat was through the chest instead of the head.

4.) It’s a fine line between Sci-Fi and Horror!

Horror and Science Fiction are very closely related genres, and if you have a film with both elements you have to walk a fine line on which theme should be paramount. Films like 2001: A Space Odyssey, and Alien are films with fantastic horror elements, but the  Sci-Fi theme’s of Futurism, and Space Travel are much more overpowering; deeming them Sci-Fi films.

The Resident Evil franchise has had a consistent Science Fiction theme, one that is a vital part of the main plot line, which is Umbrella Corp. A super secret corporation that specializes in radical experimentation. If you drop the theme of a haunted mansion (or city in the case of Resident Evil 2, and 3), and zombies but keep the theme of Umbrella - than you have a story based on labs and experiments, which in and of itself (sorry people) is a Science Fiction based plot line.

3.) Survival Horror Street Cred

More and more, horror films are getting more violent, and more shocking. Today there are horror films in the movie theater that would have only existed as independent films a few decades ago. Survival Horror is the same - the games in this genre have progressively become more and more disturbing, and if your game isn’t truly shocking it’s going to lose its street cred.

Survival Horror fans love violence, it is the bread and butter of the franchise but in the past few years it seems Resident Evil has been toned down. It is true that Capcom is trying to reach a bigger audience with this franchise, and the effects are clear. Resident Evil games now play like action shooters like Gears of War, and although both are violent they certainly don’t have the feel of Survival Horror.

2.)  Location, Location, Location

Part of the strength of the original Resident Evil game and why it was genuinely frightening, was simply because you were confined to a single space; in this case the Spencer Mansion.  The felling of being trapped is one of the oldest themes and most potent of the horror genre.  The idea that there just may be a chance you will never leave that mansion alive added a feeling of dread to the game play. With Resident Evil 5 you have large open and expansive environments that nullify that feeling of being trapped, and ultimately detract from the terror.

1.) Action on Steroids

If you look at any great Horror film - what makes it great is the helplessness you feel while watching it. Whether it is Jason, or Freddy, or a little girl that crawls out of your T.V. set, they all have something in common; they can’t be killed! It is this theme of helplessness that is the Horror genre’s foundation, and Survival Horror is exactly the same.

With the Resident Evil 4 reboot it is hard to feel helpless when you have Leon S. Kennedy A.K.A. killing machine behind a shotgun picking off crazed villagers like they are those cardboard ducks at a carnival. The same can be said about Resident Evil 5 when you look at Chris Redfield, an all around BA military guy, you don’t feel quite so scared playing this game in the dark. The Characters in the Resident Evil games don’t seem quite so vulnerable any more, and that is part of the reason the franchise just doesn’t quite have the scares it used to.

Don’t get me wrong I still love this franchise I just have to except the fact that it has changed, and in some ways for the better. There are still Survival Horror themes in this franchise but it just does not feel the same. What do you guys think?

If you are feeling nostalgic

Guinness World Records has released their top 50 list for the most influential video games of all time. Number one is…not Super Mario Brothers! It is in fact Super Mario Kart! Has your mind just been blown?

The reason: “the best-selling racing game on the N64 (more than 9 million units sold), Super Mario Kart is also the best-selling racer on the SNES (8 million units), the Gamecube (nearly 7 million units) and the DS (10 million units).”

Guinness World Records Editor-in-Chief, Craig Glenday, said of the selection process: “We knew this would be a complex task so we invited a crack team of industry experts to form a judging panel - and the result is a “top 50″ list of games ranked both on their importance and on how fun they are to play.”

Apparently this crack team was under chemical influences when they put this list together because their selections are crazy! I think a lot of games on this list belong there, it’s just the placement that I am trying to understand. The list is said to be based on a games “initial impact and lasting legacy.” If that is the case then how is Super Mario Brothers number seventeen on the list? Anyway, we have the list below for you to scowl at!

1. Super Mario Kart
2. Tetris
3. Grand Theft Auto
4. Super Mario World
5. Zelda Ocarina of Time
6. Halo
7. Resident Evil IV
8. Final Fantasy XII
9. Street Fighter II
10. GoldenEye
11. Super Mario 64
12. Tomb Raider
13. Metal Gear Solid
14. Call of Duty 4
15. Sonic the Hedgehog 2
16. GTA San Andreas
17. Super Mario Bros
18. Zelda: A Link to the Past
19. Gran Turismo
20. Final Fantasy VII
21. Pro Evolution Soccer 4
22. The Orange Box
23. Lego Star Wars Complete Saga
24. Tekken 2
25. Wii Sports
26. Pokemon Red/Blue
27. Guitar Hero
28. Project Gotham Racing 4
29. Super Mario Galaxy
30. Resident Evil
31. Ico
32. Chrono Trigger
33. Gunstar Heroes
34. Soul Calibur
35. Advance Wars
36. Ridge Racer
37. Super Metroid
38. Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
39. GTA Vice City
40. BioShock
41. Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic
42. The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening
43. God of War
44. Sega Rally Championship
45. Starfox 64
46. Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion
47. WarioWare Inc
48. Saturn Bomberman
49. Crash Bandicoot
50. Outrun 2

Source

This has been a stellar year for games.  Standards have been set, records have been broken, and the game industry has continued to thrive in a sagging economy. Of all the great games we have had the pleasure of playing this year narrowing down a select few to comprise a “top ten list” was no simple task.
Please do not assume because we have not mentioned a game on this list that we do not consider it good, we just simply think that it didn’t have that extra something to be included on the list.

Before we even start I would like to say kudos to all the developers out there! You guys have given us some truly exceptional games this year, and we look forward to 2009!

As the year is quickly coming to a close, we eagerly look forward to the new year and what is to come from the gaming industry. 2008 has been huge for games, and developers have their work cut out for them in the coming year. Here at NBS with great curiosity and anxiousness we have looked into a couple projects and from what we have seen 2009 has potential!

If you are wondering what is to come in 2009, here is our list of games that we think deserve a look.

10. Batman: Arkham Asylum
Developer: Rocksteady Studios
Due: 2009

For all of the Batman fans, who are waiting for a game to do the Dark Knight justice this one just may be it. Based on the popular graphic novel this game is a dark, gritty journey through everyone’s favorite funny farm. In Batman Arkham Asylum our caped crusader will have to face some of his most deadly foes; including Killer Croc, The Riddler, and The Joker.  In terms of game play you will not only need to use Batman’s combat skills, but also his forensic knowledge, and tech gear to progress through the game.

9. Wii Punch-Out
Developer: Nintendo
Due: 2009

Based on one of the most beloved classic NES games, Punch-Out is back on the Nintendo Wii.  Mac will be returning in this title as well as his classic competitors; Glass joe, Von Kaiser, and King Hippo. The same type of game play from the classic version will be carried over in this title but with the infusion of motion control. Although the art direction seems more cartoon-like in this title rather then realistic, it still has promise.

8. Aliens: Colonial Marines
Developer: Gearbox Software
Due: 2009

Based on the Sci-Fi classic film series Aliens Colonial Marines will pick up where Aliens 3 left off. The plot of this title is based on a search-and-rescue squad in search of Lt. Ellen Ripley, who was last seen on the Sulaco. In this FPS you will play as one of four marines who each have a different weapon. You are able to transition between the four marines, but you have to be careful which you choose because one may be better suited then the other for a specific missions. The classic Aliens will be featured in this game including facehuggers, drones, and the queen. This game is worth a look for Alien fans and FPS fans as well.

7. God of War 3
Developer: Sony Santa Monica
Due: 2009

The first God of War in full HD, we will get to see Kratos rip his enemies to shreds in full 1080p. There is not much information out on God of War 3, but from what we have surmised this third installment should be the end of Kratos quest. This title is most likely going to be released end of 2009, possibly 2010.

6. The Sims 3
Developer: EA GAmes
Due: February 2009

In The Sims 3 the scope of your control will be broader then in any previous game. You will have control over an entire neighborhood, in which you can observe the inhabitants, and pop in and out on their day to day lives. When designing your own little universe your customization options will be vast, as you can customize it as well as it’s inhabitants. When designing your characters you will be able to create their physical attributes, as well as personality traits. If you love customization options you will want to get a look at this game as it has more then any other previous title.

5. Star Wars: The Old Republic
Developer: BioWare
Due: 2009

After many rumors and whispers it is confirmed that the MMO title form another LucasArts, and Bioware pairing is in the works. Star Wars The Old Republic will have the two major classes; the Jedi, and the Sith, as well as others for the Star Wars folklore.  Along with a deep storyline, character development will be dynamic as you can choose a path of light or darkness, in which every decision you make has consequence.

4. Bioshock2: Sea of Dreams
Developer: 2K Games
Due: 2009

The second installment to the successful FPS,  BioShock 2: Sea of Dreams has been confirmed, and is expected in 2009.  Very little is known about this title but from what we have seen this game could quite possibly be  prequel, although this is just speculation.  Expect this title late in 2009.

3. F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin
Developer: Monolith Productions
Due: February 10, 2009

In the sequel to uber scary FPS survival horror title, everyone’s favorite psychotic ghost girl (Alma) is back, and she is screwing with more minds then ever before. In F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin you will explore the city that was annihilated by the cataclysmic explosion  of the previous game, in search of answers to the Alma mystery. The same slow-mo feature will be available in this title as you face off against more replica clones, as well as new enemies; living and dead. Get ready to jump out of your skin a second time, around February 2009.

2. Final Fantasy xIII
Developer: Square Enix
Due: 2009

The latest installment in the classic RPG series, has at long last been announced. In one of the biggest surprises this year Final Fantasy XIII was confirmed for release on PS3, as well as Xbox 360 to the dismay of Sony. In FFXIII you will be playing in real time, and like in previous titles you will rely on teamwork to progress, using a combination of magic, swords, and guns. Combat will be based around coordinated combo’s and also using the features of each environment to amplify inflicted damage. This title could potentially be the best yet from Final Fantasy.

1. Resident Evil 5
Developer: Capcom
Due: March 13, 2009

The latest Installment in the premiere survival horror series Resident Evil 5 is the most anticipated release of 2009.  Much like its predecessor RE4, this game will have the same over the shoulder view that helped make it so successful. RE5 will revolve around co-operative play, in which you can play as two characters; the Zombie Vet Chris Redfield, and new comer to the franchise Sheva Alomar. If you choose to play alone a highly advanced AI will take the place of Sheva, and If either character bites the dust the game ends. Resident Evil 5 is most likely to be the most visually stunning of any game in the series, and the most enjoyable in terms of game play. A new story, a new continent, and a new way to waste hordes of mutated products of Umbrelle Corp. Resident Evil 5 could be another extremely popular title in this franchise.

The Sci-Fi channels highly popular, sacred series, Battlestar Galactica will be sadly ending in 2009, but the fans will have something to look forward to from the network the following year.  Sci-Fi has green lit a prequel series to Battlestar titled Caprica, so far the pilot has already been produced and will be set to premiere in December 2010.

As said before the pilot, directed by Jeffrey Reiner (Friday Night Lights), which is 2 hours long will be set to premiere in December 2010. It will star Eric Stoltz, Esai Morales, Paula Malcomson and Polly Walker.

The series is set 50 years before the events of Battlestar Galactica on an earth like planet. The series will follow the story of two rival families who are set at odds over the advancement of AI in cybernetic beings. The feud reaches it’s peak with the scientific breakthrough of the first Cylon.  The Cylon is the cybernetic being that eventually grows into the advanced cybernetic race that wages war against all humans (hindsight is 20/20).

As I am sure you have heard Caprica is a completely terrestrial series no space battles, or or any of that good stuff. As Sci-Fi was quoted as saying Caprica is “a series that blends action with corporate conspiracy and sexual politics,” it makes me wonder how different this series will be from the original. Hopefully it will not stray to far from the themes that fans have loved so much, about Battlestar.

Here is the Skinny from the Sci-Fi channel on the new Series.

As Christmas is quickly approaching we are sure that you are trying to come up with a creative gift idea for the gamer in your life.  Since gamers tastes are picky we know it can be hard trying to find the right type of gift for them. So here at NothingButSoftware we decided to compile a short list of games and accessories that are sure to please any gamer.

1. The Atari Flashback 2

For the classic gamer the Atari Flahback 2 is a plug and play console. It has 40 classic Atari games including, Pong, Centipede, and Pitfall.  Plug and plays have been around for a while so the price will be low. A great gift idea for any gamers stuck in the 80’s.

2. Wrath of the Lich King Expansion

If you are looking for a gift for a Wow Gamer this Christmas this expansion is a must. This is the greatest endeavor thus far from Blizzard.  Wrath of the Lich king is already breaking sales records, and it continues to grow in popularity.  So get this one as early as possible. A good price for a lot of great content, and a whole new Wow experience.

3. The Wii Lightsaber
Of all of the Wii Accessories this one has got to be the best. A great gift for a Wii gamer, and a must have gift for a Star Wars fan. The Wii Lightsaber is designed to be like the real thing, when turning it on the light actually rises from the bottom to the  top. It is available in a dual pack with two separate colors, and it is reasonably priced.

4. Guitar Hero World Tour

Hands down the most popular music series in video games is Guitar Hero. Recently released Guitar Hero World Tour is rumored to be one of the most popular game titles this holiday season, and it is already flying off the shelves.  It has a huge music library, and supports download content. If you know a gamer that likes this series or wants to get into it check it out.

5. Nintendo Wii
After two years of shortages I am sure we are all weary of the Wii holiday craze. Wii sales are still through the roof, and from what we have heard this year will have it’s share of shortage nightmares. If you have a special gamer in your life who has not been able to get his hands on a Wii yet this would certainly make his/her Christmas I’m sure.

At long last my dream has come true a new batch of educational games are on the way to cultivate my mind and enlighten me to the international community. For all you gamers who nodded off in geography class while your teacher was talking about tribal rituals in South American Jungles, here’s your chance to catch up on the lesson.

National Geographic has announced that they will begin developing video games.  The non profit educational outlet has announced National Geographic Games which, is part of their profit division National Geographic Ventures. NGG has already released one title “Herod’s Lost Tomb” which was released for mac and Iphone. NGG has stated that some games will be developed in house and others through partnership.  NGG has said that their main focus is to release games that further geographic knowledge.

As excited as you gamers must be to hear this, we have decided to compile a comprehensive list of possible games that NGG could release in the near future. Enjoy.

1. Tribal Drum Hero
Honor your family and the ancestors who have come before you not to mention pick up chicks by tribal drumming. You will play before your family, your tribe, and then compete against other tribes in drum offs. The stakes are high, but so are the rewards; because if you fail at drumming the ancient rhythms of the god’s you lose a finger but if you keep perfect beat you get the neighboring tribal chief’s virgin daughter.

You will also get to play these popular tribal hits:
“Party like a Cherokee” -by the Native American Cherokee
“Big Girls Don’t Cry When They Get Malaria”- by the Jharkhand tribe of Palamu
“I’m Bringing Skinning Back” - By the cannibal Asmat tribes of Papua

2. Woodchuck Breeder for Gameboy DS
Tired of Dogs, Rabbits, and I know your sick of kittens. Well then here is the latest heart warming, I feel fuzzy inside, simulated pet game with all the fun of having a pet and none of the responsibilities. In“Woodchuck breeder” you will help protect the population of these fascinating creators by raising and breeding them. As you progress through the game you will develop new breeding skills such as; selecting the right type of wines, purchasing Barry White albums, and overall setting the right type of mood for breeding.

3. Kill Zone “O” Zone
Help protect the planet from global warming.
Progress through your journey to achieve a planet free of pollution by doing your part.

Here are a few of the exciting missions you will get to play:
-Turning off your lights when you leave a room
-car pooling
-and the funnest mission of them all standing in line at the refinery with a bag of Pepsi cans

4. F.irst E.ncounter A.rachnid R.eaction
A great game for Kids! This game takes you on a journey through the most dangerous spider ridden realms of the world, and teaches kids all the really cool facts about spiders.
Such as:
Goliath Bird Eating spider - of South America that could potentially eat your hand if it wanted to.
The Black Widow - which is native to Southern States of the US such as Florida, be careful on that Disney Land trip!
Brown Recluse - Which is Highly venomous an native to the US and could quite possibly be in your house. Isn’t that a neat fact kids!

5. Education - The Game
Learning is fun! Who needs guns and explosions when you can cultivate your mind.  Education the game will teach you the power of imagination, through comprehensive in depth studies of geographical regions and the indigenous people that live in them, and their effect on our world as a whole. Now that sound like a fun game!

These are in my humble opinion the five must have upcoming survival horror games. This is for the zombie slayers, monster hunters, and lovers of mayhem.  It was our intention to post this video on Halloween, but better late than never.

Enjoy

Click here to see the top 5 must have upcoming survival horror games.

Many of you (specially from Cleveland) are familiar with the Norton Furniture commercials.  Marc Brown the current owner of Norton Furniture (took over from his fathers) is widely popular and well known for his cheesy commercials with terrible plot lines and acting.  Marc’s unmistakable “I’ve smoked an entire millennium” voice only adds to the mess in his commercials…

On the other hand, the Seinfeld and Gates’ commercials (besides having almost nothing to do with Microsoft) are boring, oddly plotted and much to long.  Even the edited down version make you wait almost 2 minutes for some type of punch line which usually ends with Bill Gates doing some odd-ball antic with more poor acting skills.

Microsoft, trying to combat the MAC vs PC commercials launched a new $300 MILLION commercial campaign. Only these commercials barely even mention Microsoft products let alone it’s competitions.

YOU DECIDE!