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Welcome to the New Nexus 7 (2013)

Chris Hare

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Jul 26, 2013

ASUS and Google has announced the new Nexus 7, a 7-inch Android handheld with the sharpest ever tablet screen and built-in wireless charging that eliminates the need for clumsy power cable connections.

Built to deliver the best of Google in an incredibly slim package that fits perfectly in the hand, the new Nexus 7 continues the relationship between ASUS and Google that began in 2012 with the Nexus 7 tablet. “After the success of the first Nexus 7, we are very excited to continue our partnership with Google with this new model,” said ASUS Chairman Jonney Shih. “The new Nexus 7 puts the very latest mobile technology in users’ hands and sets a new benchmark for tablets.” “Together with ASUS, we took what you loved about the original Nexus 7 and made it even better,” said Sundar Pichai, Senior Vice President of Android, Chrome and Apps at Google. “It is now thinner, lighter and faster, with the world’s highest resolution screen in a 7-inch tablet. Whether you are sitting at home, in a coffee shop or at the airport, the new Nexus 7 is powerful, portable and made for what matters to you.

” Unrivalled clarity combined with excellent portability With a vibrant, 7-inch Full HD display packed with more than 2.3 million pixels for a stunning 323ppi (pixels-per-inch), the new Nexus 7 brings apps, games, books and movies to vivid life with unparalleled image quality. ASUS TruVivid technology improves colour clarity and brightness, while IPS display technology gives ultra-wide 178-degree viewing angles.

Scratch-resistant Corning Glass and a grippy soft-touch exterior ensures the new Nexus 7 is also incredibly robust, while the 8.65mm thickness and low 290g weight mean the new Nexus 7 is even more portable than a paperback book. The new Nexus 7 is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro quad-core processor with 2GB RAM for incredible performance and immersive mobile gaming, all with effortless energy efficiency that gives up to 10 hours battery life.

Movies and games sound amazing too, thanks to Cingo mobile audio technology from Fraunhofer, creators of the MP3 encoding format (see http://www.fraunhofer-cingo.com for details). With high-quality cameras front and rear, the new Nexus 7 is ideal for video chat with Google Hangouts, and can capture crystal-clear photos, videos and 360-degree Photo Spheres for instant sharing on Google+. The new Nexus 7 also features dual-band Wi-Fi and optional 4G LTE for silky smooth HD video streaming, ultra-responsive web browsing and blazingly fast downloads.

The first device with Android Jelly Bean 4.3 The new Nexus 7 is the first tablet to ship with Android 4.3, the latest version of the world’s most popular mobile operating system. Tablets are perfect for sharing with others and Android 4.3 introduces restricted profiles that, for example, allow parents to limit children’s access to mature content. Likewise, retail stores can use tablets to show off product information and shops can use tablets as point of sale systems. Android 4.3 also supports Bluetooth Smart technology, opening the door to mobile apps that connect to new devices like fitness sensors.

Nexus 7 also comes loaded with Google apps — like Chrome, Maps, YouTube, Hangouts and Google Now — that are designed for the cloud, so everything is simple and works seamlessly across multiple devices. Google Play is the easiest way to enjoy a dazzling array of content — no wires, no hassle, just pure entertainment. Kick back with the world’s largest collection of ebooks, listen to millions of music tracks, and watch thousands of movies and TV shows — all available in an instant. With an ever-expanding choice of apps designed for tablets, there’s something for everyone.

AVAILABILITY & PRICING Nexus 7 starts at £199 and will be available in the UK in the coming weeks from Google Play, Amazon, Argos, Asda, Currys, Carphone Warehouse, Ebuyer, John Lewis, PCWorld, Shop Direct, Sainsbury’s and Tesco. Nexus 7 16GB with Wi-Fi costs £199 and Nexus 7 32GB with Wi-Fi costs £239. Nexus 7 with 32GB storage with Wi-Fi and LTE will also be available in the coming weeks and will cost £299.

SPECIFICATIONS
Nexus 7 (2013)

· Android 4.3 Jelly Bean
· 7-inch 1920 x 1200 Full HD multi-touch display (323ppi)
· ASUS TruVivid technology
· Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro processor
· Up to 32GB user storage
· Dual-band Wi-Fi and optional 4G LTE
· 114 x 200 x 8.65mm
· 290g (Wi-Fi) / 299g (LTE)

Get Your Football Boots on for FIFA 14 Ultimate Team Trailer

Gaming
News

Chris Hare

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Jul 26, 2013

0

Get Your Football Boots on for FIFA 14 Ultimate Team Trailer

FIFA 14: Ultimate Team will take the mode to new heights with a wealth of fresh features such as FUT Chemistry Styles, squad customization, and more.

Deeper chemistry system: In FIFA 14, you can customize your squad to play any style of football with all-new FUT Chemistry Styles. FUT Chemistry Styles and Loyalty will make each player and every team unique. These aspects replace player formation and morale in the mode.

There are a variety of different FUT Chemistry Styles for goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders and forwards. Every Chemistry Style affects different player attributes, which makes each individual play styles stand out within the game.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aGzQVUhjd1g?feature=player_embedded%5D

FIFA 14 release date of 24th September in North America and 27th September throughout Europe on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC. Xbox One and PS4 versions will be released “later this year”.

Saints Row IV Hail to the Chief 4 trailer released

Andrew Edney

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Jul 26, 2013

0

Deep Silver releases next video for the Saints Row IV: Hail to the Chief week.

And don’t forget the exclusive gameplay we showed off just before E3. This first 9 minute video is actually the second level of the game, taking place 5 years after the first level and is when we first meet the XIN and their leader XINYK:

The second 9 minute video takes place a little later in the game and shows off your super powers and some cool weapons:

So what do you think of Saints Row IV? Let us know what you think by leaving a comment below. I can’t wait to play more!

F1 2013 Release Date Announced and In Game Footage Trailer

Gaming
News

Chris Hare

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Jul 26, 2013

0

F1 2013 Release Date Announced and In Game Footage Trailer

Today Codemasters has announced that F1 2013, the latest entry in the award-winning series of officially licensed FORMULA 1 videogames, will launch on October 4th for the Xbox 360, PS3 and Windows PC. To mark the release date announcement, Codemasters has released a hot lap video using work-in-progress in-game footage featuring the Hungaroring circuit which is set to stage the F1 MAGYAR NAGYDÍJ 2013 this weekend.

The video shows Toro Rosso–Ferrari’s Australian driver Daniel Ricciardo taking on the famous circuit and is narrated by Anthony Davidson, former F1 driver and Technical Consultant on F1 2013, who describes how drivers should attack each corner and carry as much speed as possible through the tight and twisty track in the battle for points this weekend.

F1 2013 will feature a new gameplay mode called F1 Classics giving fans the chance to race classic cars on iconic circuits against legendary drivers for the first time in Codemasters’ award-winning series. Introduced by legendary broadcaster Murray Walker, F1 Classics features a new fictional racing series allowing players to race cars, drivers and circuits from the 1980s. Classic content is also available in a range of other game modes, including split-screen and online multiplayer modes.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KPBK_4KcCwo?feature=player_embedded%5D

Further content will be available in a premium edition of the game, F1 2013: CLASSIC EDITION, featuring 1990s Content and Classic Tracks. These two packs will be made available for purchase as optional DLC for players of F1 2013. F1 2013 will also feature all the cars and stars from the 2013 season, allowing gamers to race as Lewis Hamilton in his Mercedes and Segio Perez in the McLaren-Mercedes for the first time, and includes all of the rule changes, tyre changes and remodelled handling to authentically reflect the challenge and exhilaration of racing 2013’s stunning roster of cars.

NOW TV box transforms your TV into a Smart TV for under a tenner

Andrew Edney

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Jul 26, 2013

1

Millions of people can now transform their normal TV into an internet-connected ‘smart’ TV for just £9.99 with the launch of the NOW TV Box.

Available from today at nowtv.com, the compact and easy-to-use box connects your TV wirelessly to the internet. Once connected, homes with the NOW TV box will enjoy convenient and contract-free access to BBC iPlayer, Demand 5, BBC News App and Sky News, plus NOW TV – offering instant access to Sky Sports and Sky Movies. They can also access other popular online services such as Facebook and Spotify – all delivered over broadband to the big screen TV.

Despite the explosion in connected devices such as Sky set-top boxes, games consoles and connected TVs, there are still up to tens of millions of regular TVs in the UK that cannot currently connect to the internet. The NOW TV box provides an affordable and simple way for any broadband-connected home to join the online TV revolution.

Until now, unless receiving catch-up as part of a pay TV subscription, consumers have needed to pay tens or even hundreds of pounds to purchase internet-streaming devices to watch catch-up TV on a regular TV. With the new NOW TV Box, for less than a tenner, customers can access the best in catch-up TV. But on top of this, they also have the opportunity to upgrade to access live sport and on demand movies from NOW TV.
Smaller than a pub beer mat, the NOW TV Box measures in at a trim 84mm x 84mm x 24mm and can be up and running in minutes. Simply plug the box into your TV set via the HDMI cable provided, connect to your wireless internet connection and you’re away.

The box launches as new research from NOW TV reveals the nation’s ever-increasing appetite to watch what they want, when they want. Over two thirds of Brits have now taken advantage of on demand services on their main TV sets – whether via Smart TVs or other connected devices, with two in five of us streaming must-see shows or settling down to a movie on a weekly basis.

Over half the nation (56%) use more traditional internet-connected devices such as tablets, smartphones or laptops to access TV on demand whilst in the home. For these people, the NOW TV Box will offer a simple and affordable way to enjoy catch-up TV, live sport and on demand movies on the big screen.

From launch, the NOW TV Box will let people access:

Sky Sports: Experience the best sporting action from Sky Sports with the Sky Sports Day Pass. In the next month alone, sports fans can enjoy the climax of The Ashes series, the return of the Premier League and Football League, Formula 1® Belgium Grand Prix™, the start of Andy Murray’s defence of the US Open title and much more, across 6 channels all for just £9.99 a day.
Sky Movies: Sign up for a Sky Movies Pass to access hundreds of films from Sky Movies – the UK’s most popular subscription service – including more of the latest and biggest movies 12 months before Netflix or LOVEFiLM Instant. New customers can also take advantage of a 30 day free trial of the Sky Movies Pass and enjoy the likes of Skyfall, The Dark Knight Rises and Argo in the next month.
Sky News: Stay up-to-date with all the latest breaking news from Sky News. Access a 24/7 live feed of Sky News’ award-winning coverage including all breaking news from home and abroad, as well as dedicated business, political and entertainment coverage. In addition, catch up on specific stories at any time of the day via an exclusive on demand news library.
BBC iPlayer: The BBC’s popular video on-demand service which received 2.32bn programme requests in 2012 gives you the option to catch up on your favourite BBC programmes when you want to – and now on your TV set through the NOW TV Box.
BBC News app: Giving viewers access to BBC news reports, interviews and videos at the touch of a button on their TV.
Demand 5: Catch-up on a wide selection of Channel 5 shows for at least 7 days after they first broadcast.
Spotify, Facebook and flickr: Listen to music, catch up with friends and even share your photos all through your TV set.

Overtime there will be even more for people to enjoy with the addition of new content and apps to the NOW TV Box.

NOW TV is already available on PC, Mac, iPhone, iPad, selected Android smartphones, Xbox, PS3, YouView and Roku.

Release date for Rayman Legends on the PC announced

Gaming
News

Andrew Edney

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Jul 25, 2013

0

Ubisoft have announced that Rayman Legends will also be available for PC at launch and will ship the same date as all other versions.

Rayman Legends has been praised for its stunning visuals and innovative gameplay by most of the media around the world who quote it as the most anticipated platformer of 2013. The game retains the fantasy appeal of its predecessor Rayman Origins while adding a multitude of clever and entertaining gaming modes, new characters, new environments and a new soundtrack.

The award-winning team of artists, designers and composers have also returned with an advanced UbiArt engine to include multi-dimension gameplay elements, an improved lighting system and updated game rendering that elevate Rayman’s previous graphics to the next level.

The release date is 30^th August for PC, Wii U, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PlayStation VITA.

Total War: Rome II Campaign Let’s Play video

Andrew Edney

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Jul 25, 2013

0

Trish Ryniak and Campaign Designer Dom Starr from Creative Assembly are discussing factions, diplomacy and the campaign map in this episode of Let’s Play- Total War: ROME II- Campaign.

Dom talks us through some of the factions, houses and traits and how your starting choice could influence your entire game. Get a glimpse of some of the inner workings of the cities as he has a look around his latest in-progress campaign as Carthage, and we take a peek at diplomatic relations and some of the sworn enemies he seems to have unfortunately made.

Here is the video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdTaLwvf-R0

Total War: Rome II will be available September 3rd 2013.

Activision announces Wii U line-up for the second half of 2013

Gaming
News

Andrew Edney

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Jul 25, 2013

0

Activision today announced a number of titles it would be publishing on the Wii U for the second half of 2013.

Call of Duty: Ghosts – Featuring an all-new world, story, characters and experiences, all powered by a new engine, Call of Duty: Ghosts is a stunning leap forward for the blockbuster franchise. For the first time in Call of Duty, gamers play as the underdog, fighting as part of a single squad against an enemy that has superior numbers and firepower. Call of Duty: Ghosts’ genre-defining multiplayer delivers gameplay innovations throughout, including dynamic map events, character customization and other features yet-to-be-announced. The title includes Wii Remote and second-screen Wii U GamePad support and more. Call of Duty: Ghosts is scheduled for release on November 5, on Wii U and is not yet rated by the ESRB.

Skylanders SWAP Force – Activision’s Skylanders SWAP Force continues to build upon the success of the award-winning franchise’s signature gameplay and collectible toy experience with the introduction of an innovative feature – dynamic swapability. Kids and gamers will have unprecedented levels of choice in how they explore Skylands and battle KAOS by swapping the top and bottom halves of the toys to transform 16 SWAP Force^TM characters into more than 250 unique combinations. Set in a richly detailed world of next generation visual fidelity, Skylanders SWAP Force takes kids on an all-new adventure with 32 never-before-seen heroic characters that each offer unique powers and personalities. The game also features new abilities – such as flying, climbing, and teleporting – which can be used in special areas of Skylands. Additionally, fans can play with their entire collection of 100+, forward-compatible toys from both Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure^® and Skylanders Giants. With Wii U, the GamePad allows fans to keep track of stats and view leaderboards, as well as fans’ character collections and upgrades – right in their hands. Additionally, the game is fully playable on the GamePad so kids can enjoy the game when other family members commandeer the TV. Skylanders SWAP Force is set to release in North America on October 13, Australia on October 16 and Europe on October 18 and is rated E10+ by the ESRB.

Angry Birds Trilogy – The game offers more than 100 hours of awesome Angry Birds action gameplay that spans the breadth of Angry Birds, Angry Birds Seasons and Angry Birds Rio titles, as well as 40 hours of bonus levels previously not on disc. The game features animated cut scenes and interactive backgrounds – all tailor-made in 1080p HD graphics with surround sound support. The new Wii U GamePad swap capability lets players use the GamePad touch screen controls to fling their birds with accuracy as they climb the online leaderboards for the world’s high scores. The game is scheduled for release on August 13, and is rated “E” (Everyone) by the ESRB.

Angry Birds Star Wars – Join the Angry Birds in a galaxy far, far away… where a group of desperate rebel birds face off against a galactic menace: the Empire’s evil Pigtroopers! The game evolves the core game design and hilarious tone of previous entries in the series with new characters, challenges, and environments that pay homage to the iconic hallmarks of the Star Wars universe. This title adds twenty never-before-seen exclusive levels – on top of the already two-hundred from the original Angry Birds Star Wars – and, for the first time ever, two new multiplayer modes. Play alongside your friend in cooperative mode to achieve a combined high score, or compete against family and friends (up to four players) in competitive mode. In addition, the game delivers online leaderboards, beautiful, high-definition graphics, and unlockable bonus levels, items and content. The game is scheduled to release on October 29, and is not yet rated by the ESRB.

SpongeBob SquarePants: Plankton’s Robotic Revenge – In this original story, Bikini Bottom’s very own Sheldon J. Plankton and his new legion of evil robots have destroyed the Krusty Krab and stolen the safe that houses the famous Krabby Patty formula. Join SpongeBob and his friends to locate the hidden keys for the safe before the secret is lost forever! Blending platforming, action, and puzzle-solving, SpongeBob SquarePants: Plankton’s Robotic Revenge features references and humor from the hit Nickelodeon TV animated series, as well as the voices from the show’s cast. Fans and gamers of all ages and skill levels can get together with co-op gameplay action, creating an experience that’s fun for everyone. Players can choose between their favorite Bikini Bottom characters including SpongeBob, Patrick, Squidward, Sandy, or Mr. Krabs as they scour the town hunting for hidden keys and collectibles. The game is expected to release this fall and is rated “E10+” (Everyone 10 and older—Cartoon Violence) by the ESRB.

Wipeout Create & Crash – Based on ABC’s popular TV game show, the game gives players greater control as they test their agility, endurance and abilities. For the first time ever, players can design, play, and share their very own chaotic courses with the all new Course Creator. Choose from easy, medium or hard obstacles and try to beat your course, and then share the unique code with your friends and family! In addition, compete as either fan-favorite or all-new characters in over-the-top new courses like Prehistoric Panic and Wipeouts Ahoy with all new themed obstacles. You can also challenge your friends to reign supreme in side-by-side or team local multiplayer! The game is expected to be released this fall and is rated “E10+” (Everyone 10 and older – Comic Mischief and Mild Cartoon Violence) by the ESRB.

Another Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 Double XP for this weekend

Gaming
News

Andrew Edney

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Jul 25, 2013

0

If you play Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 then this weekend you can earn double XP.

The double XP weekend starts tomorrow and will run until Monday July 29th, so get playing!

Who On the Cover of NBA Live 14

Gaming
News

Chris Hare

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Jul 25, 2013

0

Today Electronic Arts announced that Kyrie Irving will be the official cover athlete of NBA LIVE 14 when the game launches this fall on the Xbox One, and the PlayStation 4.

The first overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, Irving was named the 2011-12 NBA Rookie of the Year and was a unanimous choice to the 2012 NBA All-Rookie First Team. He was also named an NBA All-Star in 2013 and is the reigning Foot Locker Three-Point Shootout champion. “I’m so proud to be the face of this franchise as it makes its much-anticipated return,” Irving said. “I’ve been on the court with the development team and I’ve seen first-hand some of the amazing things EA SPORTS is doing with NBA LIVE 14. The fans are going to love it.” “We couldn’t imagine a better cover athlete for our game than the dynamic, explosive Kyrie Irving,” added Daryl Holt, VP and GM of Basketball for EA SPORTS.

“Kyrie is one of the best ball handlers in the league, and with our next-generation technology we can arm players with the ability to replicate his impressive on-court feats, as well as the amazing signature styles and abilities of other pros in NBA LIVE 14.” NBA LIVE 14 gives fans the chance to control the court with revolutionary new bounceTek ball physics, providing a level of control and precision never before seen in a basketball video game.

Additionally, with the power of EA SPORTS IGNITE, NBA LIVE 14 will deliver True Player Motion, Human Intelligence and Living Worlds to the hardwood. More details on NBA LIVE 14, including information on game modes, features and more, will be coming soon.

Stay Connected with Battlefield 4 with Battlelog

Gaming
News

Chris Hare

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Jul 25, 2013

0

Stay Connected with Battlefield 4 with Battlelog

EA / Dice looks to release the most advanced installment of Battlelog is set to deliver a new level of social integration that enhances the overall Battlefield 4 experience. This superior gaming companion connects the Battlefield community from multiple devices by giving gamers a unique tool that provides a deeper and richer network inside and outside the game.

Battlelog features a range of enhanced features, including:

Anytime, Anywhere – No matter where players go, Battlefield is always at their fingertips. Whether they’re heading home on the bus, taking a lunch break at work or lounging on the couch, players can log into Battlelog and check out their stats, interact with friends and much more from their smartphone, tablet, browser or directly through their console.
Battlescreen – Battlelog is now more seamless, offering a coherent second-screen experience to give players the chance to better enhance their game. Whether it’s highlighting attack points on the mini map, keeping track of squad members or playing as the team’s Commander, every move made in Battlelog reflects directly back to the game in real-time.
Real-Time Load Outs – Gamers can now switch their weapons, change their load outs and check their progression at any time, all with real-time results in-game. Players can also select servers or even launch a match from their devices, making the transition between game sessions easier.
Missions – Want to find out who is the best tank destroyer is or who can capture the most bases? A brand-new feature called Missions will allow players to custom create challenges for their friends to compete. Battlelog will also notify players when they have been kicked out of the number one spot so they won’t miss a beat to boot back up and fight for the title.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6Be-z8h0zQ?feature=player_detailpage%5D

Geo Leaderboards – Battlelog is introducing targeted, geo-localized leaderboards that will allow players to not only compete with everyone in the Battlefield community, but with people in their city, in their country or on their continent. This is a great way for gamers to rank up while making new friends, or even adversaries, on the battlefield.

Are you ready for SpongeBob SquarePants: Plankton’s Robotic Revenge

Gaming
News

Chris Hare

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Jul 25, 2013

0

Are you ready for SpongeBob SquarePants: Plankton’s Robotic Revenge

Get ready to join your favourite under-the-sea gang as Activision Publishing, in association with Nickelodeon, has announced that SpongeBob SquarePants: Plankton’s Robotic Revenge will be hitting consoles later this year in an all new, third-person, action-adventure videogame, developed by Behaviour Interactive.

In this original story, Bikini Bottom’s very own Sheldon J. Plankton, known for his obsession with stealing the Krusty Krab’s secret formula, has new plans to build a mechanised army, threatening the serene seas of Bikini Bottom. Join SpongeBob and his friends as they stop Plankton’s evil plan and protect the prized Krabby Patty Formula.

Blending exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving, SpongeBob SquarePants: Plankton’s Robotic Revenge features references and humour from the hit Nickelodeon TV animated series. Gamers of all ages and skill levels can get together with co-op party mode, creating an experience that’s fun for one, but better with others. Fans can choose between their favourite characters like SpongeBob, Patrick, Squidward, Sandy or Mr. Krabs as they scour the town hunting for hidden collectibles.

SpongeBob SquarePants: Plankton’s Robotic Revenge is expected to be available on 22^nd October for Nintendo’s Wii U, Nintendo’s Wii, Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo DS, the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. Co-op supports up to five players locally on Wii U and four players on Xbox 360, PS3, and Wii (3DS and DS versions does not feature co-op play). SpongeBob SquarePants: Plankton’s Robotic Revenge is rated PEGI 7 for Wii U, Wii, 3DS, Xbox 360 and PS3. SpongeBob SquarePants: Plankton’s Robotic Revenge is not yet rated for Nintendo DS

Call of Duty Ghosts confirmed for Wii U

Gaming
News

Andrew Edney

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Jul 25, 2013

0

Treyarch Studios have just confirmed via Twitter that they are bringing Call of Duty Ghosts to the Wii U.

It will be released on November 5th – expect more details soon!

Review of The Raven: Legacy of a Master Thief From Nordic Games

Sam Thompson

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Jul 25, 2013

1

An eager, portly Swiss constable, a jewel heist all too reminiscent of a master thief known once as Raven, a detective famed for shooting the aforementioned criminal dead and a long train journey with mysterious cargo aboard… Either the reanimated Agatha Christie has released a new bestseller, or we have a point and click adventure ahead of us!

After an introduction to the overarching plot, presumably set over all three episodes, we are introduced to our chisel jawed, muscle bound, heroic protagonist. Or not! Anton Jakob Zellner, to give his full moniker, is anything but clichéd. Instead, he’s rotund, jolly and sports a fantastically bushy moustache. Instantly likeable due to his father-like demeanour and aspirations of an exciting life, he finds himself on a mediocre assignment mere days after the copycat burglar has stolen one of two priceless gems.

That’s not to say our bumbling constable won’t get himself into his fair share of shakes however. With a keen detective nose and a penchant for sticking it in a little, ol’ Zellner is determined to help solve the case, whether his help is wanted or not.

Mystery solving comes in two forms, conversationalist interrogation and inventory management. So like every point and click before, you talk to people and combine odd concoctions of items to create a solution. Sound simple? Of course it does! Yet anyone who’s played Monkey Island or other such adventures know that’s way off the mark. A lot of sneaky interactive points and mind boggling combinations later; it can be easy to get frustrated.

Most puzzles are reasonably obvious without pandering, yet some can stump to a point of disbelief! Luckily, the journal keeps track of all your on-going investigations. There is a hint system in place should you hit a wall, however to use the hints, you must first pay points, of which you accrue via solving puzzles or doing something a little extra. Unfortunately, the tips received can often be of little assistance; instead of a resolution to your woes, it has a fondness for habitually highlighting the interaction points. Now I’m all for not getting the straight answer, as having to work through it yourself is a much more rewarding experience, yet for the truly tricky sections, there’s not much help besides plain old Google. Oftentimes after discovering the solution, you’ll also find you knew the answer all along; it was just a case of executing it that was the issue.

Presentation wise, there’s not a lot more you could ask for. Characters are diverse and unique as opposed to the normal super hunks you find wandering about in games; it’s more relatable and engaging because of that. People of all ages and creed are there to interact with; due to the stellar variance in voice work, they’re genuinely engaging.

The graphics aren’t the sharpest about, yet they do give off a welcoming appeal, thankfully objects don’t shine and pulsate a la the old Resident Evil’s, so clues can be easily missed if you’re not being thorough enough, but then that’s to be expected in this sort of game! An engaging soundtrack accompanies the warm visuals whilst not being intrusive; you could honestly just listen to the main menu music over and over!

After a slow start, things do get pacey towards the end with our undeniably likeable constable, it’s almost a shame it’s presented in an episodic format as inevitably, after you’ve completed it, there are several unanswered questions lingering! On the other hand, it leaves you satisfactorily and wanting more! Perhaps on the short side of 6 hours for a first run, replayability is encouraged due to the points system. Of course, with this only being the first of three segments, I’m looking forward to the progression in both the plot and hopefully some more intuitive mechanics at points. It’s great to see a once prevalent genre reappear as if it were yesterday; and for anyone new to the ‘point and click’ saga’s, it’s definitely worth a look.

Reviewed on PC, available this summer on PS3 and Xbox 360.