2006 Next-Gen Console Picks
If you want the cutting edge in graphics, look no further than the next generation consoles. Here are some of our GameCore favorites.
Microsoft Xbox 360
Playstation 3
Genji: Days of the Blade (GDB) is set three years after the events that unfolded in the PS2 version, Genji: Dawn of the Samurai. Playing the first game is not necessarily a requirement for playing the new one, but it will be helpful for a better understanding of the story arc that's taking place. Definitely a step up from its predecessor, GDB offers a graphical experience not seen on PS2. Using the new motion detection wireless controller you'll be able to tilt your way around your enemies. Being able to swap between four main characters gives Genji a unique approach to confronting enemies. If you like third person action/adventure then chances are you might like this one as well.
If you like first person shooters set in a World War II-type environment replete with alien-like creatures and weapons then Resistance: Fall of Man is a must have for PS3. Insomniac Games - the creators of Ratchet & Clank - spent many a sleepless night creating this shooter. Resistance features the standard modes of play that accompany first person shooters such as single player, 2-player co-op, 4-player offline split-screen multiplayer and up to 40 players online. Fighting off the Chimera - a species of unknown origin - (no throwbacks to Full Metal Alchemist), Resistance provides, you (the good guy) with an assortment of weapons to tickle your fancy. This game is rated 'M' for mature audiences only since blowing avatars to bits is not for under age kids.
If you like incredible odds, fighting vast numbers of units at once, with plenty of sword hacking to boot, then Heavenly Sword is your game. Developed by Ninja Theory Ltd., Heavenly Sword is a standard action/adventure game which features single player, sword slashing mayhem in a plush environment. Thanks to the combat engine, you'll be able to take out your frustration on a large number of enemies at once. Not to worry though, you'll definitely have a range of weapons to choose from - including the handy bazooka for special moments.
Nintendo Wii
Wii Sports, the only pack-in game that comes with the Wii console system, puts you right into the game. You have a choice of five sports titles, Tennis, Baseball, Golf, Bowling and Boxing. Using the Wii Remote and Nunchuck control system, Wii Sports allows you to really take part in the action by swinging, ducking, pointing, boxing, pitching, etc. Up to four players at one time can participate in most of these games.
Link is back and has been given a bit of an upgrade on the Nintendo Wii. He's a little older now and so is the style of game play. Link embarks on his new adventure in the land of Hyrule with his trusty sword, shield and some new gadgetry like his bow and arrow. New fighting mechanics in the game allow Link to take on his enemies from atop his steed and dispense with them in a knightly fashion. The Wii Remote and Nunchuk control system allows you greater control over Link's moves in various ways. This is an adventure game which that is definitely rated 'T' for teen.
Dark Samus, a once incredible threat presumed dead, has some how resurfaced and could potentially reek havoc across the universe. Developer Retro Studios has given Samus a big upgrade, and now that she's back, boy is she mad. With the Wii Remote and Nunchuk control system, Samus has entered a different level of play. By simply aiming with the pointer you can open doors, grasp and move things. This first-person shooter allows players to experience a quantum leap from the eyes of Samus as they wield the Wii Remote controller. All of Samus' traditional weapons - morph ball, bombs, etc. - are back, and trust me you'll need them.
If you remember the days of Excite Bike (from the old Nintendo Entertainment System), you might feel a bit nostalgic about Excite Truck. The pools of water, patches of ice (to cool your bike down) and sand traps are back but far more realistic than its 8-bit predecessor. Now instead of a bike, you're riding in style, controlling a race truck. Using the Wii Remote, players take control of the trucks in this off-road racer, performing, jumps, drifts, high speed turns, etc. by tilting, turning and steering. Developed by the creators of NASCAR Heat, (NASCAR Heat 2002, and NASCAR: Dirt to Daytona), Monster Games brings the exctiment of off-road racing to your finger tips. This game is Rated 'E' for everyone.
By Chad Chamberlain, Alejandro K. Brown and Cory Shim