• 'Mass Effect': A Personal Validation Simulation
    "Mass Effect" has floored me. I'm still processing the aftermath, and figuring out how high the game will fall on my "favorite games ever" list. But there is enough conversation about how it's a very serious candidate for Game of the Year. What I have found particularly compelling about "Mass Effect" is how it signifies a potential shift in the design and tone of interactive media.
  • Game Producer's 'Assassins' Not Cool
    Over the weekend, I completed "Assassin's Creed," which according to reports is the hottest-selling new IP in the last five years. The game, while somewhat repetitive, was a great technological achievement, modeling three medieval cities in gorgeous detail, and an engaging gameplay experience. Many, many players share that opinion. But many, many players have developed an intense hatred for the game, even without playing it.
  • Popcap Drives Conversions, Not Impressions
    Casual game leader Popcap tested a number of different setups for its game ads. The best ad configuration to sell games was the level lock, in which users could purchase and register the game to make the ads go away -- so there's no inventory for the advertiser.
  • Gaming On The Go
    Who has the time for casual gaming? With schedules micromanaged to the minute, many people just don't have time to sit down, relax, and play a round of "Bejewled." Oh, sure, some housewives might have the leisure time when the kids are at school, but what about the rest of humanity? How can we game when we're always on the go?
  • A Mediocre -- But Ultra-Violent -- Game Hogs Media Attention
    I realize it's a bit meta for media types to talk about the media giving too much attention to a particular game, so I'll keep this brief: "Manhunt 2," a mediocre, ultra-violent title for the Wii and PS2, is shaping up to be the most thoroughly covered release in the mainstream press, largely because it allows newscasters to frown significantly, and pronounce piously that they can't imagine why anyone would want to play such a violent game.
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