| Escape from Life Through Console Gaming
A guide by Keith A. Copeland, No-Life Video Gamer See all products
So, real-life getting you down? Can't seem to win at anything you do or try? Well, I have a tried and true method for relieving yourself of those irritating everyday annoyances like interpersonal communications and that little bug called work. Tell me that, given the chance to do so, you wouldn't spend your days on a comfortable couch or Lay-Z-Boy recliner playing the hottest games on the market right now and I would call you a liar. Well, that is if you're a male between the ages of fourteen and twenty-something... Anyway, I've devised a semi-comprehensive list of my favourite time-sucking titles of the past year or so on each of the three next-generation consoles. If it's an escape from the everyday mundane droll of life outside your front door, then pick a console (or get all three!) and play your life away as I have. You may not have any accomplishments to show for it aside from the saved files on your memory cards, but why can't that be enough? Hey, you beat that ultra-hard Omega Pirate on "Metroid Prime!" That takes real talent! Take you're Harvard medical degree and go perform some surgeries. We're trying to play here!
So, here we have your latest next-generation consoles. Fairly simply put, we have the ever-popular, and dare I say, overrated 'Sony PlayStation 2', Next, we have the behemoth powerhouse known as the Microsoft 'Xbox With S', known for it's more adult audience, and last but not least, the Nintendo 'GameCube Jet Black' for the young gamer in all of us who just wants to see cute little people running around killing other cute little people (yes, and creatures).
Now we come to the list of the top five games I recommend for your personal enjoyment and satisfaction on each of these three consoles. Admittedly, some of my comments are a bit biased but, please understand, this is my list and I can say what I want. :)
Sony PlayStation 2
'Grand Theft Auto 3' & 'Grand Theft Auto: Vice City'
* These two titles are listed together because of the sheer enjoyment of the completely open-ended gameplay they provided. Never before had any games develped such an utlra-realistic environment for players to... basically, um... kill people and blow stuff up.
'Final Fantasy X'
* Although this latest installment in Square's Final Fantasy series received a few mixed reviews from "purists" of the genre, most fans were elated to experience the graphic marvel of terrific storytelling and gameplay coupled with state-of-the-art graphics never before seen on any home gaming console at the time of its release.
'Metal Gear Solid-Sons of Liber'
* Did this long-anticipated title live up to the hype it created for itself? Depends on who you ask, but regardless of it's shortcomings (ultra-confusing plot, implausable characters, too little actual gameplay, etc.) the technical aspects of this game alone are worth the price of admission, considering you'll spend most of your time with the controller in your lap.
'Gran Turismo 3: A Spec'
* Probably hands-down the most realistic and graphic intensive driving simulator created for any console, this title features authentic models and more races and customizable features you could ever hope for in a racing game.
Nintendo GameCube
'Resident Evil' & 'Resident Evil Zero'
* Re-vamped graphics for the next-generation consoles brings back the ultra-popular "Resident Evil" series for an all new fan base. Along with a prequel title that's every bit as impressive as its predecessor.
'Metroid Prime'
* Eight years after the success of "Super Metroid," Nintendo released a title which recieved more critical acclaim than any other title in recent years. An entirely new control scheme and gameplay elements coupled with familiar aspects of previous titles to create a unique and highly enjoyable gaming experience.
'The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker'
* Yet another re-invented title of a popular classic theme, this title utilizes cell-shaded graphics to create an animated feel, allowing for an all new experience within a familiar setting.
'Super Mario Sunshine'
* Can we see a theme developing here? Yes, it's another sequel to the Mario titles. The official Nintendo mascot plays with new water technology evidently pioneered by the creators of this title and used in many subsequent games.
Microsoft XBOX
'HALO'
* What can I say about "HALO"...? Ask any XBOX owner what thier favorite title is and they'll all most likely list this one. I can't exactly pinpoint the lasting appeal of this game, but I think it's safe to say it has set a new benchmark for first-person-shooters.
'JSRF- Jet Set Radio Future'
* The sequel to it's highly praised Sega Dreamcast predecessor, this title improved on the previous title in every way, technically, stylistically, and in plot and storyline.
'Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell'
* This title's praise is only equalled by that of "HALO" for it's engrossing storyline and super-realistic gameplay. The creator of "Metal Gear Solid 2" has stated himself he believes this is "what 'MGS2' should have been." Enough said.
'Mech Assault'
* Seemingly created solely as an online sequel to the MechWarrior franchise, this title provides hours of unlimitted play in an environment for those familiar with the previous titles wherin you get to pilot gigantic robots you use to... well, kill people and blow stuff up.
'Phantasy Star Online for Microsoft Xbox'
* Finally we come to one of my personal favourites for a reason I have never been able to identify. This game is the ultimate life-sucker and anyone interested in online real-time RPG's should beware. This game is so addictive it cost me two jobs and an ex-girlfriend (well, not just the game, but you get my point). PSO is incredibly fun but beware, Satan himself created this game. Idle hands, people... Idle hands... |
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