Read these words: Unreal II is gold. I could probably just end this edition of Game.Ars right now. After about three years in development, the most anticipated shooter since Quake is almost upon us. Even people who aren’t huge fans of action games are anxious to get a look at Unreal II’s impressive-looking graphics. Let’s hope the gameplay holds up to the cosmetic appeal.
I am personally a huge fan of single-player campaigns. Even though the focus of shooters has shifted almost completely toward multi-player modes, I still get a tingling feeling in my nether regions when the single-player game is packed with intense, anxiety-provoking action. So, I’m wringing my greedy little hands with anticipation, counting down to the game’s Feb 4 release. Mark your calendar!
Speaking Generally
Starting January 20, File Planet subscribers will have the chance to play Command & Conquer: Generals before anyone else (anyone but beta testers, that is). If you’re not a File Planet subscriber, you can subscribe now and play Generals multiplayer for three weeks before the retail release. Only 20,000 people will be picked for this honor.
C&C Generals is probably the most anticipated RTS for 2003. It gets rid of NOD and GDI, replacing them with three sides: The United States, China, and a terrorist organization called the Global Liberation Army. The battles take place in a fully 3D world, on terrain from urban sprawl to frozen tundra, and implements technology based on real-world theoretical weaponry. See ya there.
Check out the official promotion page at fileplanet.com.
Pace yourself people!
Another death from exhaustion has been linked to playing video games. A man in Hong Kong reportedly died after playing several hours of Diablo II consecutively. The victim was a 28 year-old man, who, after a frustrating day at work and a six-hour gaming marathon, died at an internet cafe. Six hours? That’s not a lot of gaming in my book but you’ve got to know your limits.
I can’t imagine that this investigation will end by calling this one a “death by gaming,” but c’mon, have a candy bar or something. Relax people, life is too short.
The new, downloadable expansion for Everquest has been announced. Called Legacy of Ykesha, the expansion material includes the Frogloks (see image), an new playable race. Among other things are tweaks such as new creatures, increased bank capacity and armor dyes. It’s due at the end of Feb.