Drama'N'Drablands | 01.29.2016 + From the Source: Nintendo eShop Action!

It's Friday already? Oh... snap, we've been too busy to notice the days flying by. So many games to play, including Just Cause 3 and the PC release of Rise of the Tomb Raider... etc. So if you'd excuse me, it's game time!

Jan. 28, 2016 14:00 UTC

Nintendo News: Nintendo Download Highlights New Digital Content for Nintendo Systems

REDMOND, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- This week’s Nintendo Download includes the following featured content:

In FINAL FANTASY EXPLORERS, master more than 20 jobs, each offering unique ways to defeat or even recruit the realm's mightiest monsters. (Photo: Business Wire)

• Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS
  • FINAL FANTASY EXPLORERS – Master more than 20 jobs, each offering unique ways to defeat or even recruit the realm’s mightiest monsters. Players will have the ability to call upon the powers of eidolons like Ifrit and Bahamut, as well as transform into legendary characters from the FINAL FANTASY series via the Trance ability.
    
• Nintendo eShop on Wii U and Nintendo 3DS
  • LEGO^® Marvel’s Avengers – The best-selling LEGO Marvel video game franchise returns with a new action-packed superhero adventure on the Wii Uand Nintendo 3DS systems. LEGO Marvel’s Avengers features characters and storylines from the critically acclaimed Marvel films, additional classic Avengers characters featured in Marvel Comics, open-world game play and the introduction of dynamic new Team-Up Moves.
    
• Nintendo eShop on Wii U
  • Shadow Puppeteer – Invite a friend to explore the strange, yet beautiful, world of darkness and light in Shadow Puppeteer, an award-winning local co-op adventure. Work together as a boy and his shadow, manipulating light to solve puzzles that bring you closer to finding the evil shadow puppeteer.
• Virtual Console on Wii U
  • FINAL FANTASY Tactics Advance – When Marche and his friends open an ancient magical tome, their small town is transformed into a fantasy-filled kingdom known as Ivalice. In this Game Boy Advance RPG classic, guide Marche and his clan against countless foes, and discover the wonders of Ivalice. Build up your party, master abilities and summons, and learn tactical combat to win in battle.

Nintendo eShop sales:

• Nintendo eShop on Wii U and Nintendo 3DS
  • It’s the last week of the Winter Warm-up Sale! Check out this week’s deals and save up to 30 percent off select games. The sale ends Feb. 4 at 8:59 a.m. PT.
  • 99Moves, Darts Up 3D and more games from Enjoy Up are on sale until 8:59 a.m. PT on Feb. 25.

• Nintendo eShop on Wii U
  • TNT Racers – Nitro Machines Edition is more than 35 percent off (reduced from $7.99 to $4.99) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Feb. 11.
• Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS
  • Art of Balance TOUCH! is 25 percent off (reduced from $6.99 to $5.20) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Feb. 18.
  • Classic Games Overload: Card & Puzzle Edition is 50 percent off (reduced from $29.99 to $14.99) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Feb. 22.
  • The Magic Hammer is 40 percent off (reduced from $4.99 to $2.99) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Feb. 25.

Also new this week:

• Hello Kitty’s Magic Apron (Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS)
• RV-7 My Drone (Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS)
• The Magic Hammer – Demo Version (Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS)
• Joe’s Diner (Nintendo eShop on Wii U)
• Level 22 (Nintendo eShop on Wii U)
• MINI-GAMES MADNESS VOLUME: #1 – HELLO WORLD! (Nintendo eShop on Wii U)
• Crazy Train (DSiWare on Nintendo DSi)

Steel Strider… reviewed!

Have a taste for a new 2D platformer that gives you a blast from the past feel? Steel Strider might be the game for you.

This game is actually the follow up to a fan favorite (Gigantic Army)… paying homage to games like Turrican and Super Contra. Trust me, if you’ve ever played Contra (beyond lacking the ability to drop to a lower platform)… you will definitely feel the nostalgia in what is a really good game.

Thumbs up to it being greenlighted on Steam, good games should not be overlooked.

Anyway, in Steel Strider… you take on the role of an Argo Express operative manning a Gemini-class robot as you make your way through multiple planets full of mid and end level bosses.

In this run and gun game… one thing I appreciate is the fact that it’s not set up with just a couple of platforms in most areas, this adds to strategy, especially for those of you who seek to play this game to capitalize on your competitive side. Awaken your old school senses and challenge friends to see just how far you can get… and how much you can score in person and on the Steam leaderboards (which adds to the replay value of this game).

Visually this game is what it is, a mech field 2D explosive experience that truly helps deliver… exactly the way it should. Now before you ask what I could possibly mean by that… I’ll explain. The art is simple… and while not absolutely stunning, I really like how everything came together along with the fact that they didn’t just stick to delivering a game with just a few layers. The developer actually went hard not only to give depth to the layers used for the actual gameplay (which gives a 2.5D effect), but also the background that actually has a lot going on in some areas. This isn’t to over praise the game, but I do appreciate them going further to make sure it was… flat.

There is fun factor here for fans of run and gun games… but I also feel that gamers who aren’t exactly familiar with these types of games, should consider at least trying them. You may appreciate the variety in the long run. I also enjoy the music in this game… it could have been dry, but its fist pumpingly energetic (yes… I said… pumpingly) and accompanies you throughout the game... so if you find yourself nodding your head, it’s okay!

Price wise, this game comes in at just over $5 USD… so it gets a 5 on that note because it would’ve been solid at $9.99 USD.

The only con I’d give this game are the sections where you’re expected to read… because it moves a bit too quick (at least for us). It’s not the end of the world… but for fans of storylines who want to maximize the value of their game by reading all the sections that connect the dots, it may be an issue. If there were to be an update, it would be to slow that down… considering the fact that we can speed it up to skip it if desired.

Overall, Steel Strider is a great 2D game that is an affordable option for those gaming on a budget… while at the same time being a good all-around game for anyone seeking enjoyable run and gun action (that either takes them back to the days of Super Contra or those who simply want to indulge for the first time).

Fun factor: 5
Visually: 4
Replay value: 4
Price: 5

"4.5 / 5 Cool Points"

From the Source: Sega - Valkyria Chronicles Remastered

Hungry for tactical rpg action? Valkyria Chronicles Remastered... might be for you! Si Vis Pacem, Para Bellum [If You Want Peace, Prepare for War] - Valkyria Chronicles Remastered Deploys to PlayStation 4!

Pre-orders and limited first run copies in the Americas come in the collectible "Squad 7 Armored Case"

War has spread like a wildfire across the Europan continent over the precious ragnite resource. Caught in the middle is the neutral principality of Gallia, which gets invaded by the Empire. Fortunately, as a member of the vauneted Squad 7 militia, you'll be in charge of pushing the Empire out of Gallia as you take control of Welkin, Alicia, Largo, Rosie, and the rest of the squad.  The award-winning original game for the PlayStation 3 is being released on the PlayStation 4 in glorious 1080p/60fps gameplay, Japanese and English audio support, includes all the original DLC, and most importantly, adds trophy support! Oh, the best part?  In honor of the Edelweiss tank prototype, pre-orders and launch copies will arrive in the metal Squad 7 Armored Case. That of course means the game will be getting a physical disc copy along with a digital release on the PlayStation Network. The game will release physically and digitally this spring in both the  Americas and the European region, but please note the Squad 7 Armored Case is exclusive to the Americas! This is an Order! Valkyria Chronicles RemasteredWill Deploy in the West on PlayStation®4 IRVINE, Calif. - JAN. 25, 2016 - Valiant citizens of Gallia, to arms!  Bid farewell to your loved ones, because it is time to defend our peaceful nation from the Empire. Valkyria Chronicles, the critically acclaimed PlayStation®3 tactical RPG, will be remastered and released in the Americas and Europe on a brand new battlefront: The PlayStation®4! Valkyria Chronicles Remastered brings the World War II-inspired story, the beloved characters, and the mythology of the Valkyrur to life in 1080p/60fps HD. The game will have both a physical and digital version, and will sell for $29.99/CA$44.99. And as a special bonus, pre-orders and a limited number of launch edition retail copies will come in the collectible Squad 7 Armored Case. In the world of Valkyria Chronicles, the year is 1935 E.C., and the continent of Europa has been plunged into the Second Europan War between the Autocratic East Europan Imperial Alliance -- also known as The Empire -- and the Atlantic Federation over the precious resource Ragnite. The Empire is sweeping through the continent like an unchecked wildfire and has its eyes set on the rich Ragnite deposits of the Principality of Gallia. Although peaceful Gallia remains neutral in the conflict, its citizens will need to defend home and country against the inevitable invasion. Players follow Lieutenant Welkin Gunther and the vaunted Squad 7 of the Gallian Militia as they take on the seemingly insurmountable forces of the Empire. Valkyria Chronicles Remastered features: HD "CANVAS" Graphics Engine - The stunning, painterly graphics return, but this time in 1080p/60fps high definition quality! Battles and cut scenes are conveyed like a vibrant tapestry in motion. "BLiTZ" tactical battle system - Part overhead turn-based strategy, part RPG, and part real-time 3rd person shooter, the" BLiTZ" system is an innovative mechanic that makes battles simultaneously strategic and action-packed. Players will command and control their soldiers and tanks as they take on the Empire in 30 different battlefronts. Memorable storyline - Set against the backdrop of a world war, Gunther, Alicia, Largo and the rest of the fierce members of Squad 7 fight for personal reasons in the name of freedom, and the hope against all odds of liberating Gallia from Empire control, all in the face of the terrible realities of war. DLC Included - Besides the core game, Valkyria Chronicles Remastered includes all previously released DLC: Hard EX Mode, Edy's Mission, Selvaria's Mission, and Challenge of the Edy Detachment. Valkyria Chronicles Remastered will be released physically and digitally this spring. The collector's Squad 7 Armored Case, featuring Valkyria Chronicles artwork will only be available for pre-orders and a limited launch quantity. The PS4 version of Valkyria Chronicles Remastered will be priced at $29.99/CA$44.99, and is rated T for Teen by the ESRB.

From the Source: Square-Enix - Final Fantasy XV's Active Time Report 01.30.2016!

More Final Fantasy XV news coming... this Jan. 30th, 2016!!!

MAGIC AND STEALTH FEATURED IN NEXT ACTIVE TIME REPORT

FINAL FANTASY XV’s March Event Details to Be Unveiled

LOS ANGELES (Jan. 25, 2016) – Fans around the world are invited to tune in this Saturday (Jan. 30)  for the next installment of FINAL FANTASY XV®’s Active Time Report, where director Hajime Tabata and global marketing director, Akio Ofuji, will outline key updates to the title.

Commencing at 8 p.m. Pacific Standard Time, the English-subtitled program will expand on the warmongering Niflheim empire, and will showcase the latest battle footage and scenes of magic. The program will also provide updates to the upcoming March 2016 event.

And finally, newly released screenshots depict protagonist Noctis casting the iconic “Fire” spell, battling powerful Magitek Armor, conducting aerial strikes against enemies, and utilizing stealth to infiltrate enemy territory.

We thought it would make sense to add Jan. 30th's video to this post for your enjoyment, so... enjoy!

In the name of this pending active report... check out some of the awesome FFXV artwork!

Life Is Strange… reviewed!

This game just begs to be played again… due to the choices you make.

I am listing a very specific spoiler at the very bottom (because it is something I found... strange), but it won't be visible unless you drag and highlight it.

In this game you take on the role of a timid aspiring photographer who goes by the name of Max Caulfield. Almost without warning, you go from just another day on campus to crazy life or death scenarios.

While playing this game, you may think “Hey this feels like The Walking Dead video game”… and you’d be right, but it’s not by the same developer. What you will actually get here is complexity delivered from a different angle, time travel. Various scenarios arise after Max discovers these powers via one life changing encounter that easily has a several strings attached to it and those strings have strings attached to them (consider those… consequences).

One thing that stuck out in this game is something that has been getting more attention in recent years, that being… the effects of bullying (by way of situations also including drugs). Bullying has occurred for more than too long, whether it is in schools (which shouldn’t be, especially to prevent a student from taking their own lives and/or taking the lives of other students), the work place and so forth. So I think they did a really good job highlighting a very valid situation in this game, that hopefully sheds the light on clueless parents who contribute to turning a child into an entitled brat… who then grows up at times into an entitled adult doing things they feel they can get away with because their family has the type of money that unfortunately keeps too many mouths shut (to wrong doing) the way they’ve done in the past. This is also a great story for teens and other adults who should really take the results of bullying into consideration.

I won’t go too deeply into that, but on the other end… if I can increase the chance of more good being done in this world, I will say “Don’t accept… BS” and no level of excuses can greenlight harming someone when it isn’t valid self-defense. It may seem lame to even speak about this sort of stuff (especially in a game review), but the game has that sort of depth that brings up these sorts of topics (that the SDGT team disapproves of in reality anyway). The world isn’t full of only sane people… so be safe out there.

The game really came alive for me when Max started to stand up for herself and others... like her friend Chloe. There are some things I wish I could've had the option to do, like have her knock the stupidity out of someone, but it would've been out of her character.

I like the way they capitalize on the art theme with painting, drawings, scribbles and photography. Don’t expect mind blowing realistic graphics visually (that’s not what this game is about), but expect an impressive visual experience that works great with the story (that addresses some realistic... issues), and even if you aren’t the person behind the controller… it doesn’t hurt being a part of the audience. Add surround sound and your experience… should be enhanced.

Replay value is definitely present in this game, not only because of decisions (though you get to go back and change your decision for some if you don’t trust they’re for the best)… in addition to the alternate endings. So if you feel like you could’ve made better choices… umm (What are you waiting for?), go back and change them!

The price is on point… I can’t argue with it, because you are basically playing out 5 parts of an enjoyable extended movie… with 1 through 4 to be continued to a great ending that I refuse to spoil.

I didn’t notice anything that I’d list as a con for this game but there are certain glitches… that may stem from rewinding. Even if some of you may think that cons should include some of the scenarios and not knowing how to solve them, those are categorized under challenges (because it’s still a game). This includes solving problems with rewinding time in a way that may not resemble a traditional puzzle, but it feels like it and will require some thinking (in a few areas).

Something I did notice at times as far as glitches are concerned, is rewinding back and getting stuck in a weird area outside of the designated location (i.e. On the other side of a wall of a room I was just in, requiring me to reload from the last save point). It didn’t ruin the experience… but it happened, along with those times when I’d rewind back and no one would be moving their mouths in a conversation but they were still… talking. Since the characters didn’t go… Professor X all of a sudden, it’s definitely a technical hiccup. Other than that, this game avoided a con (for me) by way of not requiring players to read every journal entry, text message, etc. Optional was definitely the best move, but if the developers were to do something like this… it should be in the beginning of the episode as Max is lying in bed (not necessarily for the reader to read, but she could read segments for us to hear). Speaking of... "hearing", expect some strong language at various points.

Overall, this beautifully deep cinematic experience that takes you on a ride that hopefully helps you think also, not in the way that would necessarily make you want to be the character herself… but to be a better person if you ever have the urge to bully or take advantage of someone via abusing authority, slipping someone drugs (for any number of horrible things), etc.

Fun factor: 5
Visually: 5
Replay value: 5
Price: 5
Glitches: -0.5

"4.5 / 5 Cool Points"

By the way... if you have the Steam version, you now have access to the Director's commentary at no additional charge now that the limited edition boxed version is available. Enjoy!

If you like our review of this game, give it a +1, and feel free to share and subscribe.

Something I found strange when it came to the ending where you choose to save Chloe... is her emotional response. They drove through town and she knows her mom was killed in the storm, but it was like it was... nothing. Even with Max, when the entered the area... one would think that she would've at least looked at Chloe and apologized, but... there was nothing. Guess they were just sticking to the title of the game on that one.

Thank You to our audience! + Nintendo game achievements! + From the Source: Atlus - Odin Sphere Leifthrasir_Storybook Edition

Our audience has been climbing, and we have to give props to all of you for that, whether its... gamers from the United States, to Brazil, to Russia & Canada, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, the UK, Mexico, Australia and more (phew, say that in one breath). 

Many thanks & Expect more to come... we're just catching our speed in order to crank out even more (exclusive) content!

We may deliver something you'd never expect, but that's the beauty of +SDGT Studio... we're gamers and want great experiences for ourselves just as much as we want them for you. 

(Segway time... weeee! [Cough] Anyway...) 

It would be fantastic if +Nintendo incorporated achievements into the next home console and handheld... because... it just makes sense, and it extends the life of a game (especially if the achievements are challenging to get).
 

Achievements add to a gamer's rep. Even BFG showcases rare achievements on Steam profile.

It doesn't do anything amazing, but it acknowledges and digitally cements something that a gamer has done in a game. All games don't need to have achievements if they don't care for them, but picture this... if the same game were beaten but one had a bunch of achievements you could get to add to your account's collective achievement score, would you put in more time to focus on achieving them?

Nintendo has games that remind me of the old theme song from Shari Lewis's "Lamb Chops Play Along" but the games still run their course. I think something that could please both sides... is the option to unlock a games achievements AFTER beating the game once (would give gamers a reason to play it again and add to our rep). I'd leave that option up to the developers though.

For those unfamiliar with the "Lamb Chops Play Along" song, just sing this:

1- This is a song... that doeSN'T ennnnddd

2- Yes it goes on and on my friennndddssss

3- Some people... started singing it not knowing what it wassss

4- And they'll just keep on singing it forever just because

(repeat 1 - 4 again... and again... and... you get the idea)

(What's that down there? Looks like PS-Demand action! Let's go!)

Alice and Socrates Revealed as the Odin Sphere Leifthrasir "Storybook Edition" Mystery Art Print

If Socrates fits, he sits.

You remember when we first announced the Storybook edition and there was a big ol' MYSTERY ART PRINT tag there? WELL GOOD NEWS! In case you totally missed the headline and image above for some reason, the art print will feature Alice and her faithful feline Socrates!  While Gwendolyn, Cornelius, Mercedes, Oswald, and Velvet may be the heroes in Odin Sphere Leifthrasir, we wouldn't have been able to experience the magical fairy tale without Alice and Socrates. If she didn't have such a penchant for reading we may not have even known the story of Odin Sphere existed! It's only fitting, then, that we pay tribute Alice and Socrates by immortalizing them in a beautiful 7.25"x10" art print fit for any collector of fine Vanillaware memorabilia.  Odin Sphere Leifthrasir is the all-encompassing HD remake of the original PlayStation 2 'Greatest Hits' title, Odin Sphere. Developed by the legendary Vanillaware and published by ATLUS, the game is steeped in norse mythology with intricate plots that wouldn't be out of place in a Wagner opera. Five character plots intertwine as the world of Erion hurtles towards the end of days as warring kingdoms clash for control.  Check out the full website at atlus.com/odinsphere   Odin Sphere Leifthrasir will be available for the PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, and PlayStation Vita. For a limited time and only at participating retailers, a 64-page softcover art book will come with standard purchases. There's also the Odin Sphere Leifthrasir "Storybook Edition" premium version (limited to the PS4 version of the game) that includes a hardcover version of the art book, a special Potion Recipe t-shirt, a metal slipcase for the game, an art print, and premium outer packaging. (If you're enjoying the content... +1 it, share it, subscribe and all that good stuff.)

From the Source: Nintendo - eShop action like... Minecraft Story Mode!

The weekend is here... what do you plan on doing with it if you don't have to work?

Jan. 21, 2016 14:00 UTC

Nintendo News: Nintendo Download Highlights New Digital Content for Nintendo Systems

REDMOND, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- This week’s Nintendo Download includes the following featured content:

In Minecraft: Story Mode – Episode 1: The Order of the Stone, you'll embark on a perilous adventure across the Overworld, through the Nether, to the End and beyond. (Photo: Business Wire)

• Nintendo eShop on Wii U
  • Minecraft: Story Mode – Episode 1: The Order of the Stone– This new episodic series was created by award-winning adventure game powerhouse Telltale Games, in partnership with Minecraft creators, Mojang. As Jesse, you’ll embark on a perilous adventure across the Overworld, through the Nether, to the End and beyond. While at EnderCon, in hopes of meeting Gabriel the Warrior, you and your friends discover that something is wrong … something dreadful. You will drive the story through the decisions you make: What you say to people (and how you say it) and what you choose to do in moments of thrilling action will make this YOUR story.
• Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS
  
  
  • Mario & Luigi: Paper Jam – Paper Mario is jumping off the page and into the quirky adventures of Mario & Luigi! Become a super team of Mario Bros. to take on quests, take down enemies and untangle two classic gaming universes in this playful new entry in the Mario & Luigi RPG series. Mario & Luigi: Paper Jam will be available on Jan. 21 at 9 p.m. PT.
• Virtual Console on Wii U
  
  
  • Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros. 3 – The Koopalings have been sent to wreak havoc in the Mushroom World. It’s up to Mario to recover the royal magic wands and restore the kings to their true forms. Access extra levels by selecting Level Card on the file-selection screen, or take a break from the journey and get in on some classic Mario Bros. action!
  • Zack & Wiki: Quest For Barbaros’ Treasure – In this swashbuckling Wii classic, explore seven vibrant and fantastic lands with Zack and Wiki, as they go on a quest to become the greatest pirates who ever lived. Use the Wii Remote controller to navigate, open objects, transform items or unlock new pathways as you solve puzzles and outwit a variety of enemies and bosses.

Nintendo eShop sales:

• Nintendo eShop on Wii U and Nintendo 3DS
  
  
  • Winter Warm-Up Sale! – It’s week two of the Winter Warm-Up Sale! Save up to 30 percent off select games, and be sure to check back next week for a lineup of new deals. This week’s deals start Jan. 21 at 9 a.m. PT and end Jan. 28 at 8:59 a.m. PT.
  • Adventure Time: Finn & Jake Investigations (Wii U and Nintendo 3DS), Barbie and Her Sisters Puppy Rescue (Wii U and Nintendo 3DS) and more games from Little Orbit are on sale until 8:59 a.m. PT on Feb. 12.

• Nintendo eShop on Wii U
  
  
  • Super Toy Cars is 50 percent off (reduced from $7.99 to $3.99) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Jan. 28.
  • The Quiet Collection is 20 percent off (reduced from $4.99 to $3.99) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Feb. 1.
  • Toon Tanks is 20 percent off (reduced from $1.99 to $1.59) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Feb. 4.
  • Fit Music and Luv Me Buddies Wonderland from O2 Games are on sale until 8:59 a.m. PT on Feb. 22.
• Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS
  
  
  • Luv Me Buddies Wonderland is more than 45 percent off (reduced from $24.90 to $12.90) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Feb. 11.
  • Etrian Odyssey 2 Untold: The Fafnir Knight and Etrian Odyssey Untold: The Millennium Girl from ATLUS are on sale until 8:59 a.m. PT on Feb. 1.

Theme Shop on Nintendo 3DS:

• New themes this week include:
  
  
  • SEGA SG-1000
  • Animal Crossing: Winter Frolicking

Also new this week:

• PET INN 3D (Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS)
• A World of Keflings – Demo Version (Nintendo eShop on Wii U)
• Brunswick Pro Bowling (Nintendo eShop on Wii U)
• Cube Life: Island Survival – Demo Version (Nintendo eShop on Wii U)
• SKEASY (Nintendo eShop on Wii U)