Video Game Thread

[storm]

What are the controls like on the new fifa? .. complex or simplified these days?

 

Fifa 09 looks really good.. but ive not really played the game for a long time (occasional play with friends with the latest release over the yrs) but ive not bought a Fifa series myself since Fifa97!!!

 

couldnt really stand it even back then .. not into games with combo moves n stuff.. (they still in the game?) .. i get lost.. so instead sit there trying to string nice simple passes together building into attack. only to lose the ball in the final 1/3rd of the pitch for the opponent to just run straight through my team doing a massive array of tricks and pop the ball in the net from 30yds!.. used to right pee me off! .. i dont have the time or the patience to learn combo's n things.. its quite rare that i even open the booklet up on a new game!

 

I'll stick to the shootem up games and racing games untill they develop some kind of brain powered controller so i just have to think what i want to do and not have to press 5 buttons in combo to do it!

[troy8]

i just saw on the list of stadiums of 09, no Goodison park again!

[Louis]

Preview of Everton team in Pro Evo 2009:

 

http://www.pcaction.de/?menu=browser&m...yes&page=36

 

I'm underwhelmed. Tim Howard looks more like Dewey from Malcolm in the middle.

[jamiemaher85]

Preview of Everton team in Pro Evo 2009:

 

http://www.pcaction.de/?menu=browser&m...yes&page=36

 

I'm underwhelmed. Tim Howard looks more like Dewey from Malcolm in the middle.

J.Lo looks quite good though

[Viennatoffee]

What are the controls like on the new fifa? .. complex or simplified these days?

 

Fifa 09 looks really good.. but ive not really played the game for a long time (occasional play with friends with the latest release over the yrs) but ive not bought a Fifa series myself since Fifa97!!!

 

couldnt really stand it even back then .. not into games with combo moves n stuff.. (they still in the game?) .. i get lost.. so instead sit there trying to string nice simple passes together building into attack. only to lose the ball in the final 1/3rd of the pitch for the opponent to just run straight through my team doing a massive array of tricks and pop the ball in the net from 30yds!.. used to right pee me off! .. i dont have the time or the patience to learn combo's n things.. its quite rare that i even open the booklet up on a new game!

 

I'll stick to the shootem up games and racing games untill they develop some kind of brain powered controller so i just have to think what i want to do and not have to press 5 buttons in combo to do it!

 

You can also win without using so much combos, just odont tackle every striker of your enemy already when he´s running, you have to wait for the right moment to take him the ball away when he cannot make a comobo at all...

 

And if you play on PC and have a gamepad, with your midfielders and strikers it´s enough doing anything with the right stick, you do not have to know exactly what you are doing^^

[dark]

They haven't really changed the faces much. Howard and Neville are the same player from last season. There dosen't seem to be much progress in this game. It looks and probably feels all the same. The only change is the Champions League imput, which I can live without. La Liga being taken out will drive people away and with no real reason for buying this update I can't see how Pro Evoulution will make progress and money.

 

Andrew Johnson Still At Everton <_<

 

I know, Konami said "a complete graphics overhaul" but to be honest the graphics weren't and never were the problem with the lackluster issue of 2008, it was the gameplay which took backwards steps. If you have a HD tele the graphics are fantastic, it is just the pixel rate which has decreased on 2008 since the days of PES 4/5 and 6. Then you have the edit mode which was the worst of all time on 2008 and obviously the much slated online play which has a lot of room for improvement.

Edited October 7, 2008 by dark

[StevO]

spent the last few days playing fifa 09, awesome! game play has much improved and graphics and detail are superb. adidas live is a cool touch to the game too. read a few reviewers saying fifa has its crown back from pes this year.

 

if anyone has it and knows how to change squad numbers in manager mode please tell me. i signed moutinho and he went number 2 and hibbo is 11. pissed me off no end

Edited October 7, 2008 by StevO

[dark]

I'm unsure whether you can StevO. The same happened to me. I bought Petr Cech for Everton and he went to 2 and when I signed Fabregas he went to 12. Would be good if I could change the squad numbers around, but I've looked around a found nothing.

 

I looked on Yahoo Answers and people are saying the same:

 

I've got it on PS3 too and I don't think squad numbers are on it.

I don't know why they've left it out, it sucks really.... I bought Messi and now he's no. 2 and I cant change it.

Plz look at my question on FIFA 09.

 

It is a weird option to take them out because I hate all my strikers having the number 2 shirt.

[jamiemaher85]

I just got Fifa '09. I'm looking forward to playing no end. I've always been a Pro fan but have decided to deviate this year as it seems that Fifa are making moves in the right direction whereas Pro isn't moving forwards at all.

[aaron]

anyone still think that COD4 is still the best online game?

[dark]

I can only talk from a single player view and I don't like Call Of Duty at all. I played it one time at a mates house and I had a go on the multi-player version which was increadably straight-foreward and on my first go I managed to win 4-1. IMO the game isn't that good, but due to all its hype I'm alone on this one. Has anyone got Racing Driver Grid BTW?

 

 

 

All-terrain vehicles are something of a niche interest, but you don't need to care about them in the least to enjoy Pure. All you need is an appreciation for breathtaking environments and intense racing action. In Pure, Black Rock Studio has crafted an accessible, wildly tricked-out game that may feel a bit familiar, but it pulls off its concept so well that you won't mind feeling like you've danced with this lady before.

 

Also who fanices Pure?

[jamiemaher85]

The new fifa really is so so so good. Played it last night, my friend came around and we ended up playing and drinking (heavilly) until 6am. Work has been a little tricky today I can tell you!

 

I've always been a pro fan but i'm very glad i've made the switch now. Fifa is the way forward!

[Adam]

anyone still think that COD4 is still the best online game?

 

I am one of the peopl that has only just x box live even though had an 360 for about 3 years.

 

Never saw the attraction with it and mates kept telline me to try it.

 

Finally got it after getting a month for free and decided after 2 days of playing Pro Evo 8 on line that I would keep it and have now got a year paid up.

 

Also had people going on at me to play COD4 on line. I have played it single player and didn't like it as dont like FPS however I have to agree with you even though I prefer playing football games COD 4 is the best game I have played on line.

 

Have played fifa 09 and still not sure on it as never been a fifa person. Think I will wait til Pro Evo comes out and go from there

[dark]

Some really good releases coming to the 360 in just a few weeks. On October 17th Pro Evoulution Soccer 08 and Saints Row 2 will be released. I'm not getting either of the games. As I'm not really into the Gansgsta' Game Market, but Saints does look good for anyone wanting an alternative to Niko and GTA IV. The Official Xbox Magazine gave it an 8/10.

 

The following weeks will see Fable 2 hit the screens along with Dead Space and MotoGP 2008. Perhaps more so than his work on genre-defining titles, such as Populous and Syndicate, Peter Molyneux has become known for not delivering on promised features for the final retail products of his games. With the release of Lionhead Studios' action role-playing game Fable II just a few weeks away, the designer isn't doing that reputation any favors. Last week, Microsoft said Fable II's oft-touted online co-op mode would not be finished in time for the game's retail release. As a result, the publisher hopes to patch in the mode for North American gamers sometime during the first week of the game's release, though the timing for European co-op remains in limbo. Today, Lionhead had a bit more bad news to report. By way of the studio's official blog, Lionhead community manager Sam Vantilburgh revealed that the Fable II Limited Collector's Edition has been dramatically scaled back from what was previously announced. Due to "supply chain issues," the bundle will no longer included a premium box, the five printed fate cards, or a Hobbe figure. As the collector's edition now stands, it will include the game itself and…a "Making of" DVD. Collector's edition purchasers will also be granted bonus in-game content, including The Hall of the Dead dungeon, a weapon, and Halo-themed Spartan armor and energy sword. As a result of the cuts, the collector's edition has been discounted from $79.99 to $69.99. Hoping to regain a bit of goodwill, Vantilburgh also announced that Lionhead has released a special Fable soundtrack that can be downloaded for free through Sumthing Digital beginning October 6. For more on Fable II, check out GameSpot's previous coverage.

 

MotoGP looks a really interesting game - I've had all the games and really enjoyed them, and this one looks to be the best yet. Progress is definatly made here with this installation. With Capcom and Milestone at the wheel not much can go wrong.

 

Dead Space, another great game will hit the shelves October 24th like the previous. Horror-Survival-Action was never better. Trapped aboard a city-sized spaceship that's been overrun by horrific aliens, engineer Isaac Clarke does the only thing a video game character knows how to do: He arms himself to the teeth with badass futuristic weaponry and starts to blast his way through a seemingly never-ending wall of alien flesh in the hopes of finding a way out. That's the setup for EA's new sci-fi survival horror game, Dead Space. Announced back in September of last year, the game has actually been in development for more than two years. At E3 2008, EA is showing off a new level and a grisly boss battle, both of which we got to check out a bit early to see how this surprise-filled game is shaping up.

 

The E3 level comes from roughly the midway point in the game, as Isaac finds himself on the hydroponic deck, where all of the food for the Ishimura crew members is grown. Half of the level has been infested by a strange substance known as "corruption," which is a nasty-looking substance secreted by the necromorph aliens that have invaded the ship, as well as makes the ship a more hospitable place for the aliens to carry on with all their mindless slaughtering and eviscerating. The corruption substance doesn't have a negative effect on Isaac (other than preventing him from running), so your job is to wade into the muck and face down whatever monstrosities are lurking in the corridors of the ship.

[aaron]

force unleashed is class (Y)

[dark]

Not really gotten that much into the Star Wars games. I played the Lego Version and then went and played on Battlefield 2 and was kinda' impressed but not enough to spend hard earned cash on it. The Lego Series always seems cool, and quite unique, but I don't see the reason behind paying full price for a silly little child-game.

 

Does anyone play the Burnout Series? I just got hooked again. I'm playing through Paradise after beating all the others and am currently on my A Licence with 50 wins to go till I become an Elite Burnouter (is that a word?) It's basically (for those that dont know) a car racing game in which you drive wrecked cars around the city street-racing. The differance is that you have to Takedown your rivals, you smash them into walls, over fences and into water to try and slow them down, they do the same to you. The pure speed of the game is appealing, top speeds of 300mph and a slow back-marker at a mininal 200 your never going to be cruising in a race. Be sure to fasten your seatbelts, as it's one hell of a ride.

[DangerMouse]

Its a bit old but just got Fight Night 3... was only a fiver off ebay so what the hell....

Had been after this game for ages but was never really sure about spending £40 on a boxing game (usually just into the shooters)

well its a fiver well spent I LOVE IT...

Graphics are spot on, gameplay is dealt with in a way that does away with button bashers and the online play is superb....

 

One punch KO's are a great thing aswell very rare thery arnt executeble by just pushing a button..

 

I completely wiped the floor for 12 rounds with my gf thinking i was great with my crapy little boxer taking her on as Ali only to be knocked out with one punch begining og the 12th....

 

keeps you on your toes and is a good addition to the game.....

 

anyone fancy a fight

[jamiemaher85]

Never been a huge fan of boxing games to be honest. I had Prince Nazeem Boxing years ago and it was ok but I got bored failry quickly.

 

I'm just really starting to get into Fifa '09. I've always been a Pro Evo fan but thought i'd deviate this year as Pro just isn't improving that much anymore.

 

Anyway, I'm no just getting to grips with everything, and fuck me its brilliant. The way the game flows is very realisitic and especially the weighting of the ball, it really makes the whole game seem incredibly realisitic. We've come along way since Sensible Soccer, thats for damn sure.

[DangerMouse]

^^^^^ Yea im wanting fifa09 its in blockbusters going for £34 so may just have to drop in after work...

 

Only thing stopping me is the fact I have 08........ it will just piss me right off having a game sitting there that i may aswell just chuck in the bin.......

[dark]

Videogamer.com

 

It's interesting times in the world of virtual footie. For years Konami's Pro Evolution Soccer series has scored the winning goal in the gameplay stakes, and EA's FIFA franchise has lifted the trophy in the graphics stakes. And for years gamers have, on the whole, considered PES the superior game. But last year something happened. Something happened that was very interesting indeed.

 

Overall, FIFA 2008 was a better game than PES 2008. It came as somewhat of a surprise to us here at VideoGamer.com. Perhaps it shouldn't have. For a while now EA's money making powerhouse has been creeping up the quality ladder, with solid tweaks to its game engine, functioning online play and a more simulation approach to gameplay. FIFA 09 is the culmination of all of those tweaks. It is the coming together of a game engine now supremely confident that it is the most realistic representation of the game of football the industry has to offer. And it is the best FIFA game ever made.

 

Why? Because it plays superbly, a more important factor in the game's quality than the new 10 versus 10 online play, the new Adidas Live Season (which imports real world, real time stats every week to keep the game up to date) or the new four season Be A Pro mode.

 

Despite the fact that you can change the game speed, FIFA plays almost sluggishly. The players are more responsive than in previous efforts, and turn quicker, but if you're not controlling a speed demon - Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi, for example, there's absolutely zero chance of you putting clear blue sky between your heels and the defender's hacking big toe. Sure, you might beat a man - using one of the many tricks assigned to the right analogue stick - but you won't get away from him.

 

What you will do is immediately notice the new player physics which make shoulder barges and 'turfing' opponents off the ball a realistic reality. For example, if Chelsea sledgehammer Didier Drogba chases for a ball with lightweight Manchester United left back Patrice Evra, he'll out muscle his opponent - fairly, if he's appropriately positioned. This doesn't happen all of the time, of course - it's not a guaranteed win - but it feels like it happens when it should. And it's class.

 

This has an overwhelmingly positive impact on how FIFA plays. More than any game in the series, FIFA 09 makes you think before you shoot. You're forced to craft goal scoring opportunities cautiously, eking out killer through balls only when defenders have been pulled out of position, or players have made penetrating runs (they now raise their hand when calling for a pass, Wayne Rooney style - a useful and realistic visual clue for when to hit through balls). At least that's how it plays out during the first hour or so of a match.

 

After that, just as in real life, games start to get stretched, players get tired and space begins to present itself. You won't be able to simply wait for this to happen, however. You'll need to react to how your opponent is playing and adjust on the fly, with the excellent new custom team tactics system. Here you'll be able to change tactics on the fly from three overarching types - defensive tactics, attacking build up style and attacking chance creation.

 

Say, for example, you're 1-0 up with 10 minutes to go. You're probably not going to want to pump players forward, so will instead want to concentrate on keeping possession and controlling the game. Here, quickly switching to the short passing attacking build up style should, assuming you're good enough, carry your team over the finishing line. Your players will position themselves closer when supporting and players further away from the ball will be less likely to make runs. The reward is that you always have close options and can keep the ball on the ground, Arsenal style. But with every tactic there's an associated risk. Here, you must advance the ball with the entire team, and you need a good deal of patience.

 

The custom team tactics system makes a hell of a difference to advanced FIFA 09 play. The more you play the better you'll get at identifying what tactic your opponent is using, and at deciding which tactic is best to counter that system given the kind of players you've got. It amounts to an easy to use layer of tactics we've yet to see beaten in the genre.

 

So, like we said, think before you shoot. If all this sounds too much like hard work, then know that you don't have to use custom team tactics to enjoy the game. In fact we suspect most players won't use them, just like most players use default formations when playing.

 

The custom team tactics system is by far the biggest innovation this year, even more so than the 10 versus 10 online play, which we have yet to test (and fear could end up being total school playground chaos, we'll have to wait and see). All the other new features are tweaks or refinements that don't fundamentally affect the way the game plays. One is the new heading system, which forces you to time when you press the button so that the player times his jump properly, rather than simply press the button at any time and wait for the animations to kick in. Players' weight and momentum is all taken into account here - so expect some meaty collisions. The heading will take a few matches to get used to - you'll jump too early and too late initially - but you'll soon get used to it, and enjoy the added satisfaction it brings to a headed goal or a flick on. And it might even have some surprising benefits - in one game I played against Tom, I positioned Chelsea winger Joe 'there's a bee hive in my hair' Cole in the box hoping for him to nod in a cross, but instead he spectacularly overhead kicked it into the bottom right hand corner of the goal. I jumped out of the VideoGamer.com sofa for that one I can tell you.

 

Bar this, it's as you were, at least in comparison to EA's last footie game - the summer's excellent UEFA EURO 2008. The goal celebrations make it in (watching Michael Ballack, for example, do 'The Robot' is as hilarious as it is ridiculous). The Be A Pro mode will keep players who like to go it alone entertained across four seasons (a tad short for our liking), with the ultimate goal of getting called up for your national team. You can of course, take your created player online and test your skills against the rest of the world. The commentary is solid. The graphics are stunning, when it's in wide view and in-game. During replays and close ups it's not so good. EA still hasn't managed to nail football players on the head - most look like hulking apes just as they did in the last game, with low foreheads and beady eyes. At least now they don't look fat though - one of our main graphical gripes with 2008's effort. And EA was clearly staying up late with the rest of the football world on transfer deadline day. Robinho's at Manchester City and Berbatov is at Manchester United.

 

We've hardly a complaint to make. But we do have them, and most are age old FIFA annoyances. Players will still hilariously fall over themselves for no apparent reason, falling victim it seems to the game's excellent physics. Crossing is a bit ropey, as it has been for a while. Yellow cards can sometimes feel like they're dished out too long after the offending foul. And to get a free kick in the first place you need to be physically assaulted, rather than fouled. But apart from those minor issues, we can't help but be incredibly impressed by FIFA 09.

 

We had worried that FIFA 09 was going to end up like EURO 08 with a Premiership skin. Luckily for us, we were wrong. Like we said, the best FIFA game ever made. Over to you Konami.

[dark]

According to Gamesindustry.biz EA boss John Riccitiello has confirmed at William Blair & Company's 28th Annual Growth Stock Conference that the next Need for Speed game will be called Need for Speed Undercover. Riccitiello also revealed his disappointment on last year's Need for Speed ProStreet. "I thought it was an okay game, in terms of gameplay. It's not good. But who wanted ProStreet? It was a sort of made up, put numbers on the side of your car and pretend to drive your Ferrari where? Or your Porsche where?"

 

Need for Speed Undercover will have a strong mission structure that Riccitiello has compared to the film, The Transporter. "For those of you who ever saw movies like The Transporter - it's sort of a cult classic among people with a B-movie mentality, which fits me perfectly. I liked it. I apologize. For those of you with no taste, and you liked it too, we can go have a Schlitz after this." The development cycle has also been changed for Need for Speed titles, there will now be two teams working on the franchise and they will be working on a 24 month cycle. "Last summer we added head count and split the team in two, so now there are two teams on a 24 month cycle. And this is sort of their first 16-and-a-half month game...Because we didn't do it far enough ago to give us a full two year dev cycle."

 

Is it going to be a free roaming like Most Wanted and Underground 2? Will you still be able to tune the cars performance or its body? Will you be racing against other racers cause that's what NFS has always been?

 

I was really let down by carbon and prostreet. this game will need some stellar reviews for me to pick it up. I hope they're gonna make it simmilar to NFS Most Wanted.I mean with the great story and good ending.

 

@Jamie - My apologies.

[dark]

Saints Row returns to us in a matter of days. Saints Row 2 follows up from the second. Your character (who can now be female, and the character customization has had a completely upped) wakes from the ten-year coma caused by the ending of the first game. The Saints have fallen and are now back at the bottom of the ladder, with new gangs holding the top slots. This for me is what I want to see in a game. I mean, its got a kinda' cheesy story-line but it will be amazing to see. I like the fact that you can be male or female. I will be male obviously, but it makes the game sound as if we can actually customize things like never before.

Some changes:

-There will now be nine upgradeable crubs instead of four basic ones. For me this was a must, the original was too plain. Needed something new.

-More vehicles, including helicopters.

-Redone graphics. A comparison of the Carnales drug dealer from the first game and his appearance in the new one was astounding.

-New acitivites and abilities. Looking like GTA all of a sudden, which is kinda' a good thing.

-Whole new character creation. You'll customize the character animations and voice (no more near-silent protagonist), as well as getting the appearance down to the tip of the nose.

-New enemy gangs. So far, the only confirmed one is the Sons of Samedi, a Jamaican group that has green as their gang flag colors. Drugs gotta be included here

 

Despite all the cool stuff you can do in Saint's Row, I'm actully looking forward to checking out the economy system more then anything. I really like that you can buy clothes, cribs, property and you can form your own gang, have your own team. If fact that's the main reason why I favor games like Scarface over GTA. The problem for me is that at some point in the game, you'll buy everything there is to buy and run out of things to spend money on, so it feels pointless to keep dealing drugs or doing missions. What I hope to see in a free roaming game is something like a steady bill you have to pay, a steady reason as to why I would want to keep working for money.

 

Take GTAIV for example. Even after you beat the game you still have to, as long as your playing the game, maintain your friendship with the people you meet in the game if you still want acess to whatever it they have to offer. You'll have to take them out on a night or day on the town where you always have to pay. In short, it cost money to stay friends with that person. I really liked that but GTA does it on such a small scale, I want something bigger. Like maybe every week I got to pay my gang so they would stick around, or rent on the house or I get kicked out. It's gotta cost money to maintain a drug business. In short, I would like incentive to want to keep playing the game after I beat it.

[aaron]

hang on, if you was a dude on the last saints row and now you can go female? how the fuck do they explain that one haha.

not a fan of saints row tbh.

Im looking forward to COD5 and GOW2

[dark]

Just been having another few plays on FIFA 09. I still think its a brilliant game. I'm in my first season, with Everton using most of the transfer fund making my fitness coach at level 8 and buying Petr Cech from Chelsea and Ricardo Carvalhio, also from Chelsea. I've managed to beat Arsenal, 3-0 and Liverpool, 3-2 in the league but have lost points losing to Stoke City, 1-0 and Middlesbrough 4-3. I need to concentrate more and just play for the full 90. I'm happy with the game and most of the time it is really challenging, I do get the odd 8-0 win, but that's only when your flying on your A Game.

[dark]

Can't wait for Dead Space. The new survival horror game coming the the 360. It's a game set in space. Your on-board a haunted spaceship, and you need to get off. It's an alternative to the normal horrors that are usually in a house full of zombies. This seems to include better setting and looks to me like it could challenge Half Life.

 

 

 

 

Seriously can't wait for this game to be released. Anyone else picking it up?

[Adam]

Never heard of it before but looking at that it looks quite good so might have to have a look at getting it.

 

Pick up my copy of PES 2009 today from Blockbusters (well my wife does) so looking forward to that.

 

I went and traded in all my old ps2 stuff that not played for about 2 years (had the consol 2 extra controllers 2 memory cards and about 35 games inlcuding things like the eye toy and real world golf) and managed to get £77 store credit for it which paid for PES 2009 and will also pay for Gears or War 2 when it comes out.

 

Then just got to ask for Call of Duty for xmas and I am set

[DangerMouse]

^^^^^^

 

Id be asking for a PS3 for xmas...........

[Adam]

I think if I ask for a ps3 for xmas on top of already having a xbox 360 wii, psp and a pc my wife might say no.

[dark]

Just going back to the MotoGP game, which is due for release on the 24th October this year. It looks a really good game through gameplay, but also through gameplay. The racing games are always going to have the better graphics, but MotoGP is some exception. Brilliant looking game.

 

 

 

 

[amb3r-3fc]

Can't wait for Dead Space. The new survival horror game coming the the 360. It's a game set in space. Your on-board a haunted spaceship, and you need to get off. It's an alternative to the normal horrors that are usually in a house full of zombies. This seems to include better setting and looks to me like it could challenge Half Life.

 

 

 

 

Seriously can't wait for this game to be released. Anyone else picking it up?

Fuk Tht Shit...

It Looks Well Scary.

and Ya No Wat Im Like Martin !

[dark]

It is a horror, and it looks a bloody good one. There's a lot more scary than that. Alone In The Dark 4 for me was a very creepy game. I'm not a big fan of zombie's jumping out at me

 

I'm going to ask for that for my birthday - 8th November, Put it in ya diaries

[amb3r-3fc]

It is a horror, and it looks a bloody good one. There's a lot more scary than that. Alone In The Dark 4 for me was a very creepy game. I'm not a big fan of zombie's jumping out at me

 

I'm going to ask for that for my birthday - 8th November, Put it in ya diaries

I Would Probs Have A Heart Attack If A Zombie Jumped Out On Me !

Im Really Not A Fan Ov Any Scary Ones. Bloods Okayy.

[dark]

I Would Probs Have A Heart Attack If A Zombie Jumped Out On Me !

Im Really Not A Fan Ov Any Scary Ones. Bloods Okayy.

 

Hah, yeah. I've played some games that I thought were pretty scary, but the only one to ever make me physically jump was (surprisingly) one of the Turok games. I can't remember which one, but I was pretty new to shooters then, playing at a buddy's house, and the first pack of enemies to appear in the game really gets the drop on you. Instead of getting startled and unloading all my ammo into them, I jumped in my chair... and then proceeded to clean them up pretty efficiently. My friend got a pretty big kick out of it all.

 

In the end though, I greatly prefer tense and creepy atmosphere to those cheap jump-out-and-scare-you routines (cheap in that they're pretty stereotypical and overused) but it sounds like this game puts both tactics to pretty good use.

 

 

 

[Louis]

So... FIFA or PES?

[jamiemaher85]

For the first time ever... Fifa. I have always been a Pro man myself, but it just hasn't changed enough, whereas Fifa is making huge strides forwards. I've never really been to bothered about liscencing so I havn't taken any of that into consideration. But Fifa's gameplay is a real cut-above this year. I'm very impressed.

[aaron]

downfall for fifa - semi pro is far too easy.

professional is to much of a jump up from semi pro.

on another note, be a pro is absolute class, got my player in the first team for everton atm

[amb3r-3fc]

I Prefere Fifa Even Tho Fifa 09 Is Sittin In Me Room Waiting For a New ps2 !

I Dont Mind Pes Tho !

[dark]

downfall for fifa - semi pro is far too easy.

professional is to much of a jump up from semi pro.

on another note, be a pro is absolute class, got my player in the first team for everton atm

 

I'm doing Seasons with my own character who is Martin White, a striker breaking through the ranks at Everton. I've played eleven goals for the Reserves and scored a tally of 15, the most recent game I was awarded the captancy. I'm playing on Proffessional and loving it, my only fault is that the reserve games are too easy, I mean I know I'm a striker, but my player isn't that good.

[Louis]

I'm growing a dislike for PES to be honest, I think they're just being lazy. Apparently PESFAN.com have been running the Official UK PES site and one of their perks as that they could send a list of improvements to Konami developers to implement based on posts rated by their users and Konami never acknowledged any. All I want is to be able to have GP in the game as home and I'm happy but they can't even do that .

[dark]

PES v FIFA - I found a good little article here, IMO PES are lazy, and FIFA is king.

 

So, what follows is a chat between a PES fan (Tom) and a FIFA fan (Rich), aimed at putting the former's historical merits into the brand new context of the shiny FIFA games we got to play in Canada. The exchange below is ripped verbatim from our emails, and any suggestion that it was painstakingly stage-managed - or that we deliberately set each other up for fluid counter-points so it didn't descend into witless farce - are so far wide of the mark that Frank Lampard's feeling better already. And yes, I have done that one again. Read on, and try to believe.

 

Tom Bramwell: Rich, I'm going to pretend this is like one of those discussion panel things and start my first bit by introducing myself. Hi everyone! I'm Tom! Everyone thinks I'm a die-hard PES fan, presumably because I gave FIFA Road to the World Cup 2/10 and never get to review any of the others. EA is known to think I "hate FIFA". This isn't actually true, because that would be pointless. Anyway, I will now begin by diving surreally into an assertion about ball physics. You know, Rich, the way the ball behaves has been one of Pro Evolution Soccer's defining characteristics for a length of time so stupid that it's probably entitled to a government subsidy. When People's Hero Steven Gerrard sprays the ball cross-field, the way it accelerates, arcs, floats, lands and bounces all looks convincing. People often talk about PES' slow build-ups and low scorelines, and identify those as reasons the goals give players such a huge sense of elation; but I'd argue that the way the ball feels to strike contributes just as much. Based on what we saw in Canada, do you reckon FIFA can match that?

'PES vs. FIFA' Screenshot 1

 

Rich Melville: Yes. But before we go any further, hello Eurogamers, I am Rich. I am a FIFA fan. I am also not writing this bit of the answer because Tom's trying to make it all look nice on the page and didn't tell me that first. Suspend your disbelief. But I will be writing this bit, so, I do think FIFA can match that. The amount of research EA has put in to working out how a ball - and the air around it - works in terms of pure physics is staggering. It makes my brain hurt just thinking about it. And doesn't the ball sometimes bounce off PES players like a pinball? There's no denying the PES physics are fun, but they're not as realistic as they could be, are they? There has to be a balance between realistic physics and fun but based on what we saw, next-gen FIFA ball movement looks great. Konami will no doubt be constructing a similar system thanks to the power afforded by PlayStation 3, so there's still a lot for both EA and Konami to prove.

 

Tom Bramwell: In FIFA's case though, a lot of this is still theoretical. PES is fact. The pinball doesn't derail the illusion. PES6 wasn't exactly a watershed moment, I'll grant you, but a lot of the things EA told us about - varying pace to beat opponents, using tricks to create openings, stretching for the ball, slow-dribbling - can already be done in PES. The FIFA trick system also seems to have the hallmarks of "it's in the game - but only because we stapled it onto its face"; it'll need to be massaged into what they're doing very cleverly if it's to be as approachable and integrated as it has to be to work. PES though already has dozens of feints. You can flick the ball in the air, do the Marseilles turn; the "flip-flop" trick is in there. Did you see Kaka leaving the ball to Ronaldinho on the edge of the England box on Friday after we got back? I've been doing that on the Internet for a year. People always fall for it.

'PES vs. FIFA' Screenshot 2

 

Rich Melville: I didn't see the Kaka and Ronaldinho double act as I fell asleep due to jetlag and rosé. I know what you mean about the tricks in PES but, honestly, how often do you see them happen, especially online when play is often a race to the box or gaining a corner? There's lots of button-fiddling to be done and you get the impression that, in the heat of the moment, it's better to charge the opposition and prepare that cross rather than showing flip-flaps. Or flip-flops. Or whatever. Both players have to agree to play in a 'skilful' way for things to work, otherwise you'll be stood there farting around like a seal with a beach ball while a grunting, drooling Rooney steals the ball and barges his way to the goal, red cheeks flapping. There's strategy in PES but it's not as accessible or obvious as in FIFA, and there's going to be some people saying that in the following posts - it basically depends on how much time you invest as to which game you'll warm to.

[Adam]

have played both and even though not impressed as much as I would be with PES 2009 still prefer it to Fifa.

 

Something about fifa just can't seem to get to handle with. Can score goals and win my matches but something about the game play I don't like.

 

For me Pes with not having the new players at the correct club is terrible. It came out 2 weeks after Fifa and they are completely up to date I beleive.

[dark]

-Exclusive UEFA Champions League Mode utilizing all the elements and attributes of the competition

Well OK, this is the biggest improvement in this years game, but its not that much. We wont be playing that much Champions League in Master League anyway, and who says that its included in the Master League?

 

-Improved graphics for an ultra-real experience

 

Not as good as FIFA's

 

-With smarter AI system your team mates will be constantly seeking out open space, taking intelligent lines toward the goal and on defense and also actively calling for the ball

 

They do that on FIFA too..

 

-New, more realistic camera angles for your preferred perspective of gameplay

 

 

-New teams, players and stadiums

 

Oh.

 

-Improvements to the fan-favorite Master League Mode – Play as one player just like in real life mastering your own ball handling and your off the ball support

 

Be A Pro?

 

-New exciting and immersive Become a Legend Mode and online playable Legends Mode will add new dimension to PES

 

Exiting? Somehow I dont feel the grab

-Updated rosters from your favorite club and national teams

 

Same as every year then?

 

-Using a supported USB camera, import data to create your own player or team emblems

 

We could do that last year.

 

-Great improvements in ball control, passing and your teammates reactions are more in tune with how teammates react in real life

 

That sounds kinda' cool, but FIFA did it years ago.

[amb3r-3fc]

-Exclusive UEFA Champions League Mode utilizing all the elements and attributes of the competition

Well OK, this is the biggest improvement in this years game, but its not that much. We wont be playing that much Champions League in Master League anyway, and who says that its included in the Master League?

 

-Improved graphics for an ultra-real experience

 

Not as good as FIFA's

 

-With smarter AI system your team mates will be constantly seeking out open space, taking intelligent lines toward the goal and on defense and also actively calling for the ball

 

They do that on FIFA too..

 

-New, more realistic camera angles for your preferred perspective of gameplay

 

 

-New teams, players and stadiums

 

Oh.

 

-Improvements to the fan-favorite Master League Mode – Play as one player just like in real life mastering your own ball handling and your off the ball support

 

Be A Pro?

 

-New exciting and immersive Become a Legend Mode and online playable Legends Mode will add new dimension to PES

 

Exiting? Somehow I dont feel the grab

-Updated rosters from your favorite club and national teams

 

Same as every year then?

 

-Using a supported USB camera, import data to create your own player or team emblems

 

We could do that last year.

 

-Great improvements in ball control, passing and your teammates reactions are more in tune with how teammates react in real life

 

That sounds kinda' cool, but FIFA did it years ago.

God You Done Ya Homework Lol.

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PES Review, Gamespot

Although Pro Evolution Soccer fans bought last year's game in droves, it was unfortunately an all-time low for the series on the PlayStation 3. Poor graphics, dreadful presentation, and basic online play failed to make the most of the hardware, and it was a step back in gameplay terms. Pro Evolution Soccer 2009 doesn't completely redress the balance, but it's a step in the right direction, with new game modes, an improved editor, and even a Champions League licence. Additionally, this is a more enjoyable game to play thanks to its slower pace, more responsive control system, and simple passing mechanic. Unfortunately these are only small fixes, and though there's a solid game at the core, it's one that still fails to keep up with the times.

 

Pro Evolution Soccer 2009 continues the series’ accessible and deep gameplay. A couple of key changes bring the gameplay back toward Pro Evo 6, which should make fans of the series feel right at home. The overall pace has been reduced this year, and the ball feels heavier, both of which mean that it's easier than ever to link passes. The game is also incredibly fluid when you're trying to link together through-balls and crosses, and moving the ball around generally feels more natural and instinctive than before. However, football is an unpredictable game, and this is something that Pro Evo 2009 really struggles to capture. Part of this is down to the animation system, which lets players change direction quickly but looks outdated and overly procedural. Run a player down the wing and you'll see his animation routine repeating over and over, and though a fast player can outrun a slower one, there's no real sense of physical tussling in midfield. This year's players bounce off of goalposts and one another, but famous players such as Rooney and Ronaldinho have none of their other defining physical qualities.

 

Although the gameplay has merely been given a face-lift, a number of game modes are completely new for this year. At the top of the list is the new Champions League mode, which means that Europe's biggest club tournament is included with some of its key teams and sponsors. This is quite a boon for Konami, who have long failed to secure any official competitions for the series. The Champions League mode is not only given prime position on this year's main menu, but it's also given the full TV-style presentational treatment. You get the same dramatically shot videos, replays, and banner ads that adorn the TV presentation of the competition, and most crucially, Handel’s “Zadok the Priest” features throughout. It's quite a refreshing change from previous games that have had an unofficial feel to them, but it's not perfect; only 13 teams from this year's competition are included in their official capacity. Key squads such as Arsenal and Chelsea are still called "North London" and "London FC," and are listed outside of the official Champions League roster.

 

The other major addition is the Become a Legend mode, in which you concentrate on an individual player rather than an entire team. You create your own player from scratch, choosing his height, weight, and facial details, even his celebration routines and likelihood of injury. You can also scan your own face if you have a PlayStation Eye camera, but the game just sticks your face on top of an existing model. This means that you need to adjust the skin tones on both the model and the photo to attain some sort of parity, and even then the results look oddly disjointed. That said, there's an absolute wealth of options to tweak, and it's great to see yourself score a goal in the game.

 

Ultimately, though, Become a Legend is a novel but rather boring take on the standard game. You spend most of the time running around off the ball, while midfield players will need to constantly chase down attackers while forwards will have to help score goals. Unlike the similar Be a Pro mode in FIFA 09, there's no incentive for actually performing your job on the pitch, given that you're not rewarded for your individual passing and tackling. If your team is scoring goals and winning games, then you'll be able to move to new teams, which means that your AI teammates become stronger along the way. The online version of Legend is much better because it does reward people for making successful passes and tackles, and the score multiplies the longer you hold on to the ball. The downside is that it only offers support for up to four players, and you have to play against an AI opponent.

 

The lack of official licences is something that Pro Evo fans should be used to by now, so it’s good that the edit mode has become even more extensive. You can manually edit everything from individual players and teams to stadiums and competitions, and if you spend a bit of time, you can update all of your favourite teams and leagues. Seeing "Yorkshire Orange" instead of "Hull City" can make any suspension of disbelief much harder, so it's worth doing. Even better, you can now import your own images and photos via USB memory stick or the PlayStation Eye camera. This still results in some funny-looking player faces, but it works well on club emblems.

 

Konami has clearly put some work into presentation this year, and though the results are still far from stylish, they are definitely trying. The menu system has been given a pop art/Gilbert & George overhaul that may look dated, but it certainly differentiates in the world of commercial sports games. The sound is atrocious, with generic music for the menus and what is without doubt the worst commentary yet. The duo of John Champion and Mark Lawrenson have unwisely tried to inject some humour into this year's proceedings, saying things like, "This match will end in defeat for one party, and in a party for the other." Even worse, they make frequent factual inaccuracies, praising defenders who haven't even touched the ball or midfielders who made passes that went straight to the opposing team. There are also no trophies for the PS3 version, which is a shame because the Xbox 360 version does feature achievements.

 

Last year's online mode was laggy, simple, and prone to connection dropout, and though it was updated postrelease, it never reached the state that it really should have. This year's game is better, but it's still lacking on both features and performance. The registration process involves separate IDs for both the game and Konami, and even when you get into the online mode, it's a confusing collection of menus and options. Servers are split by language, probably because you can text chat in the lobby before a game, and then each lobby has a maximum player count of 100. You can challenge individual players to matches or pair up automatically with the quick-match option, but getting into an online game still requires much more time and effort than it should. Lag is also a problem, with balls that act erratically and players that transport from one location to another. Strangely, this seemed to afflict the standard 1-versus-1 online mode rather than it did the four-player Legends mode.

 

Pro Evolution Soccer 2009 is a good game, but it's one that has significantly failed to evolve over the last few years. The new modes add some potential interest for owners of last year’s game, but the Champions League is just flashy dressing for a competition that still doesn't feature all of the official teams, and the Become a Legend mode is neither as feature-packed nor as fun to play as FIFA 09's equivalent. If you love Pro Evolution Soccer's gameplay and simple control system then this year's game is worth checking out, but everyone has a right to demand much more from Konami's increasingly stale series.

[dark]

 

Last week, a YouTube user posted what he claimed was the teaser trailer for BioShock 2. Allegedly from the just-released PlayStation 3 version of the game, the spot showed a now-older Little Sister holding a doll resembling a big daddy. As she receded into the distance, silhouettes appearing to be art deco skyscrapers rose from the sand before the trailer cuts to a barnacle-encrusted logo for "BioShock 2: Sea of Dreams."

 

After being reticent for seven days, today 2K Games finally came clean, releasing the trailer to the public. Viewable and downloadable in HD on GameSpot, the game is also available from the official BioShock 2 site and on Xbox Live Marketplace. Another version will go live on the PlayStation Network sometime today.

 

Given that the BioShock 2 trailer is available for download on two consoles and the PC, it seems a forgone conclusion that it will be available on all three platforms. However, 2K rep Charlie Sinhaseni was somewhat cagey about the details, saying only "BioShock 2 is destined for the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and Windows PC platforms." Reps would not comment on whether or not the game would be released on all three simultaneously

[aaron]

bioshock was so over-rated.

absolute balls imo

[dark]

For me BioShock is one of my favourite ever Xbox 360 titles. I absolutely love it. I like the way they combined the cartoon-style world of Rapture and turned turned the cute little sisters and everything else on its head to create a great horror game. It was very, very weird and that is why I liked it. Up until the last chapter the player was still obvlivious to the real reason behind Rapture, Atlas and everything else. Slowly, slowly things were revealed but enough to keep me playing. I can't wait for the next edition. IMO BioShock deserved the 9.0 that Gamespot gave it, along with every other honour it's been awarded.

[dark]

Czech gaming site Hrej.cz posted new information about Bioshock 2 which cames from some unnamed source within 2k Games. According to the source Bioshock 2 is now in pre-preproduction phase and 2k plans to release it in summer 2009. According to Hrej at this stage of development they are trying to focus on storyline and graphic design. Plot will be set before events from original game. So it looks like Bioshock 2 will be a prequel and we will wittness more about the fall of underwater utopia.

 

A Take-Two representative has confirmed to Shack News that Ken Levine will be involved in the BioShock 2 project in some capacity, saying "[Levine] is critical to BioShock." Reassuring news, though it's still unclear how closely Levine will be working with the 2K Marin studio during development, especially since he almost certainly has his own new projects to work on with his team at 2K Boston.

 

 

 

 

 

 

[aaron]

just looked at some trailors for GOW2 and its looks epic.

cannot wait for that

[dark]

Gears Of War for me was like a failed Halo. I listened to the hype and got it for Christmas 2007, hated it and didn't play it much. The camera sucked and Fenix was annoying to play as. But when I forgot about all the hype and just took it as a normal game I loved it. I'm playing now and am in Level 3. I coulden't bare to see a game go to waste like Gears was doing. I'm concidering even picking up GOW2 now.

[dark]

How's everyone doing with FIFA 09?

 

I'm still in my first season with Everton in 3rd, 5 points behind Portsmouth at the top, 3 points from Chelsea in second and 4 points clear of Manchester United, Liverpool are having a terrible season and are in 18th. I'm in January now with the window time running out. Two weeks to go. I've signed Scholes, Obi Mikel, Fabregas and Sorenson. Sorenson is a Danish Striker from the FC Copenhagen Acadamy, not the old Aston Villa/Stoke City goalkeeper.

 

I got knocked out of the FA Cup in the 3rd Round losing 2-0 to Hull City. But I managed to get the Carling Cup into the Cabinet. I won that today against Manchester City after defeating Manchester United, in the semi's 4-1 on aggregate. The final started real bad for me. A harmless cross was tapped towards goal from Lars Jacobsen but Tim Howard slipped and missed the ball, it rolled into the net giving the City a 7th minute lead.

 

I managed to fire back with a 32nd Obi Mikel strike from a few yards out, leaving Joe Hart stunned. A minute later and a slip from Richard Dunne allowed Yakubu to pick up the loose ball at the middle of the pitch, un-marked and un-challenged he slotted the ball home to put Everton into the lead for 2-1. After the break Yakubu scored in the 50th minute to give some breathing space. Phil Neville headed in from a corner five mintues later to give Everton the win. Joseph Yobo sliced the ball into his own net in the 95th minute but Everton held on to win the cup 4-2.

[aaron]

ive noticed that your avatar is from silent hill there dark, they should make a new silent hill game for next gen consoles.

[dark]

They made a game for the Xbox 360 called Silent Hill: Homecoming which get really negative reviews and didn't do the Silent Hill name any good. I liked the Silent Hill: Room the best, in which you woke up to find your apartment door has been chained up and you are being held prisoner in your very own apartment. I liked the way that that story flowed, and it was a real nice concept.

 

The Homecoming game came out on October 1st 2008, so I can't see them releasing another for a few more months. I would expect, if it's not rushed a Q2 2010 release. Which would give the team time to go back and do it right. I hope that 'Team Silent' do the game, because since Double Helix games have took the reigns the franchise has taken a nose-dive.

[Adam]

Does anyone know anything about the BETA codes for Call of Duty at Worlds end?

 

Just checked my e-mail and got one from COD website but looks like have to install it on the pc and not play it through my xbox? as on about installing stuff

[dark]

Xbox 360 owners can already try out Call of Duty: World at War’s multiplayer beta and soon PC gamers will get their chance as well. There’s no specific start time listed for the beta to go live as of yet, but if you head on over to the official website you can sign-up to take part.

 

All registered users, including those who sign up after the beta starts, will be given a key that enables them to create a unique profile name and play. Users will be able to host their own servers during the test. However characters and experience points will be deleted at the end of the beta, so you'll have to start again when the retail version is released.

 

Along with this announcement, it was revealed that the PC version of the game will introduce friends lists and an invite system, similar to what is usually seen in console titles. The game is due out in a little over three weeks, on November 14, for Xbox 360, PS3, PC, Wii, PS2 and DS. In the meantime, you can check out this Call of Duty: World at War multiplayer beta hands-on from the Xbox 360 version

 

I haven't got COD so I'm not that interested, but I found this little article which may come in handy Adam.

[aaron]

anyone got fallout 3?

if so whats it like?

[Adam]

Was thinkiong of getting fallout 3 but went for Dead space instead.

 

Dead space what I have played of it is not bad. Not really got that far in it yet so dont know what it is going to be like

[dark]

Fallout looks like a good game. I think OXM gave it an 8/10, might of been 9. It's an RPG which always sounds interesting but I don't like the way in which it is laid out, some of the screen shots show differant damage to differant body parts, I'm not really bothered about that. I'm going to ask on another forum and see what comes back because I too don't know much about it.

 

Dead Space looks amazing, getting it soon, either 8th November for birthday or might just buy it, got £60. £5 for the cinema tomorrow and then the rest will be gaming fund (and converse ) OXM game it a 9/10 saying that the only thing wrong with it was for a 'horror' game it wasn't scary at all, more just random dead bodies jazzed up into HD to scare the playskool kids.

 

Posted a few screenies of Dead Space on Page 5. Take a look

[dark]

I've just been looked at Fallout 3 on Gamespot, and it's looking like a good game. It's sounding like a copy of Oblivion just in 2277 AD, rather than BC. The role-playing game is set into the future and looking at people's posts on the forums it sounds like you can have some good experiances with it.

 

I had an interesting moment yesterday playing Fallout 3. I traveled to Wilhelm's Wharf and entered the sewers. I dealt with the ghouls down there with no trouble and then I arrived at the publishing building that made the Grognak comics. I found the printing room and to my surprise, saw mutiple Frag Mines set up, ghouls getting shot down by turrets, and a guy in a Brahmin-Skin Outfit wielding a Minigun. After I disarmed the mines blocking my passage and destroying the Mk.3 Turrets, I walked around the walkway to check for stuff. Then the Minigun bastard began firing at me. I quickly took him out with the Chinese Assault Rifle (Mind you, I am still wearing the Armored Vault Suit and my shit is not in great condition.) Eventually, I killed him and made my way up to the control room where he was (I shoot him through the opening that looks out to the printing room). I took his Minigun and additional ammunition and left the building out to the wastelands. Upon exiting, three Talon Mercs begin attacking me. It took a bit of work, but I killed the three mercs. I turn a bit to the left and I see 3 Super Mutants charging at me. Turns out the 6-7 Super Mutants who were in the lot below me and the Talons Mercs were alerted by the gunshots and decided to see what was going on. So now, I have to handle 6 Super Mutants and a Super Mutant Brute single-handedly with my 10mm SMG, Chinese Assault Rifle, Assault Shotgun with only one clip, and barely any healing items. I somehow survived all of the enemies (Mind you, they had Hunting Rifles, Assault Shotguns, Assault Rifles, and one of them even had a Minigun.) and ended that battle with only 70 rounds for my SMG, 3 slits of health, and addicted to 5 different drugs. I saw this to meet the requirements of fast traveling.

 

The game has recieved 9.0 from Gamespot and some of the screenies are starting to look amazing. Sounding hypocritical I know, but I've spent a good hour researching this game and I'm hooked. Here's what Gamespot said for 'The Good'

 

-Freedom to explore what you want, when you want

-Fantastic, intricate quests can be completed in a variety of satisfying ways

-VATS combat system results in all sorts of tense and gruesome encounters

-Outstanding art design makes for a desolate DC

-Rewarding mixture of excitement and atmospheric exploration.

 

...and 'The Bad'

 

-The story and characters can feel a bit sterile

-Combat feels mildly clunky.

 

Can see why the game got 9.0. The story and character being sterile can be over-comed with a bit of imagination. I mean, you could say the same with Oblivion, all the people were the same but with some imagination you could make them unique.

 

The combat may be clunky, but after getting used and with being hooked on the story I'm sure this can be overcome. Will get Dead Space, GRID & Pure for my birthday and spend my money on Fallout 3, am on the last mission of Gears Of War (started last Monday) so will have a fresh game to complete.

[dark]

Just been having a blitz on the new Motogp game. It's absolutely fantastic, really challenging. I was playing on Legend (hardest) last year and was winning races by a clear 10-20 seconds. This time I'm third and fourth, sometimes getting a win by 3 seconds. My best is in Mugello where I beat Barbera by 4.

 

Capcom's improved the steering and feel for the game. It's more lifelike, and the HUD is all what it is on the TV making it all the more enjoyable. I signed with a crap 125cc team and managed to end the season with 2 wins, 4 poles and finishing in 8th. Crashing out of 4 races.

 

Moved to a 250cc team and managed to improve. 3 wins, 4 poles and finished 4th. Crashing out of 2 races - this put me on good running for a MotoGP team. San Carlo, Honda LCR, Kawasaki and Alice all wanted to sign me up, I chose Kawasaki and am underway in the season 2010. Am 2nd in the leaderboard behind Casey Stoner (6 points) after winning 1 out of the 4 races and coming second in most. Real good game that has me hooked.