EA’s latest Sims expansion pack lets players create the perfect boudoir, explains James Batchelor
NeverDead
Dominic Sacco takes a look at Konami’s new limb- tearing IP created by Metal Gear veteran Shinta Nojiri
THEY SAY home is where the heart is, and that heart often does its best palpitating in the bedroom. This is no less true in the world of
EA’s The Sims 3, where giving virtual couples a homely bedchamber to rest in goes a long way to keep them happy. With this in mind, the publisher has released The Sims 3 Master Suite Stuff. Contained on the disc, which is priced at £19.99, is everything players need to make a luxurious master bedroom and bath. The range of furnishings and décor on offer allows The Simsowners to follow a set style, be it
contemporary or traditional, or mix things up to create their own. In addition to four-poster beds and mammoth bathtubs, players can also add several romantic touches like candles and roses to really set the mood for their Sims’ nocturnal rendezvous. There’s even some new glamorous hairstyles and saucy night attire to ensure their virtual puppets are at their most alluring when staging a romantic evening. The only thing missing is Barry White. Boom-chicka-wow-wow, and so on.
[INFO]
Released: January 24th
Formats: PC, Mac
Publisher: EA
Developer: The Sims Studio
Distributor: CentreSoft
Contact: 0121 625 3388
LAUNCHING new IP into the games retail marketplace might be tough, but having a striking point- of-difference like NeverDead’s immediately sets the title apart. The new property from Konami pits players against a horde of ancient demons. We know – so far so usual. Gamers control an immortal demon hunter called Bryce Boltzmann and his sidekick Arcadia. But rather than the usual running and gunning found in other shooters, NeverDeadintroduces a more interesting mechanic. As Bryce gets attacked and his limbs are ripped from his body, players can throw them back at their enemies as weapons, whether it’s flailing legs or hands still firing a gun. In fact, this outlandish mechanic becomes central to NeverDead’s gameplay, with players able to roll Bryce’s head into hard-to-reach areas to progress. Plus, former Metal Gear Solid2, 3
and 4 designer Shinta Nojiri created the title, putting it in good stead. “As the brainchild of Kojima Productions ingénue, Nojiri gives NeverDeadan enviable heritage and continues Konami’s plans to marry Japanese gaming talent with
[INFO]
Released: February 3rd
Formats: 360, PS3
Publisher: Konami
Developer: Shinta Nojiri/Rebellion
Distributor: Open
Contact: 020 8987 5730
that of the cream of Europe,” Konami’s PR and marketing executive Brian Ayers tells MCV. “It’s an exciting new IP, and one of the most striking and original titles to hit shelves in a very long time.” Konami will promote NeverDead with print ads in mainstream and specialist games publications, as well as online banners on games and lifestyle web portals. Rock act MegaDeth is even on board, having written the game’s title song. The group will promote NeverDeadin rock publications with interviews and competitions.