Tag: Arcade

Let’s Play Arcade! 009 – ‘Lego: Builder’s Journey’

by Derek Kraneveldt

Welcome back to Let’s Play Arcade!

The outline of this show is simple. We’ve got:

Two best friends.
One randomly selected Apple Arcade game.
Two fresh new semi-randomly selected beers (we basically just grab something new that we see on the shelf).

We don’t talk about the game at all before we record, so we’ll be learning each other’s thoughts and impressions live on air. At the end of each episode, we’ll also randomly draw the game for our next offering, so you’ll always know what’s coming up on the next adventure.

Part of the appeal of doing this show was just getting to “hang out” more often. Back in the day we’d be able to meet up for a beer, but because of where we live at this point, it just can’t really happen. For each episode of Let’s Play Arcade!, we’ll also be cracking open (and sort-of reviewing) a random beer as well. Neither of us really know anything about beer (or drink it all that often), so while we don’t know what anyone has to gain from us talking about them, we’ll see what happens!

Each episode will also feature an ‘after show’, where we’ll basically drivel on about whatever we feel like (stick around after the end theme if you want to listen).

This episode we jump into Lego: Builder’s Journey, a beautifully crafted puzzler with a touching, silent story. We also chat a lot about Coronavirus / COVID-19 — keep in mind that this was recorded about a month ago and John has since cancelled his plans for a road trip through the United States (and also the border is closed anyways).

Now available only on Apple Arcade! LEGO Builder’s Journey is a poetic puzzle that takes place in a LEGO brick world, brought to life with the most accurately rendered LEGO elements yet to feature on screens. Be taken through a breathtaking world filled with brick-by-brick effects, accompanied by a beautiful soundtrack.

Listen to find out how things went, and if you like what you’ve heard, here’s where you can subscribe to the show:

Anchor
Apple Podcasts
Castbox
Google Podcasts
Pocket Casts
RadioPublic
Spotify

We’ve had a blast making Let’s Play Arcade! so far, and we really hope that you’re enjoying it too! If you have any feedback for us, we’d love to hear it at derek@geekscape.net. Anything you listeners can do to help spread the word about the podcast would be immensely appreciated — from sharing it on social media like Facebook or Twitter, to leaving us five stars (or even a review) on Apple Podcasts, to sending it to a single friend, it can all make a massive difference! 

Thanks again for coming along on this ride!

Intro, Outro themes by Arcade High

Listen to the previous episode: Let’s Play Arcade! 008 – Cricket Through The Ages

Let’s Play Arcade! 008 – ‘Cricket Through The Ages’

by Derek Kraneveldt

Welcome back to Let’s Play Arcade!

The outline of this show is simple. We’ve got:

Two best friends.
One randomly selected Apple Arcade game.
Two fresh new semi-randomly selected beers (we basically just grab something new that we see on the shelf).

We don’t talk about the game at all before we record, so we’ll be learning each other’s thoughts and impressions live on air. At the end of each episode, we’ll also randomly draw the game for our next offering, so you’ll always know what’s coming up on the next adventure.

Part of the appeal of doing this show was just getting to “hang out” more often. Back in the day we’d be able to meet up for a beer, but because of where we live at this point, it just can’t really happen. For each episode of Let’s Play Arcade!, we’ll also be cracking open (and sort-of reviewing) a random beer as well. Neither of us really know anything about beer (or drink it all that often), so while we don’t know what anyone has to gain from us talking about them, we’ll see what happens!

Each episode will also feature an ‘after show’, where we’ll basically drivel on about whatever we feel like (stick around after the end theme if you want to listen).

This episode, John and Derek play a game about a sport they’re not familiar with… that doesn’t seem to have anything to do with the actual sport.

Swing bats and throw balls through the intertwined histories of humankind and cricket in this one button, physics-driven game.

Over a thousand years ago the human race teetered on the edge of extinction. Our ancestors were helpless against the mighty behemoths of the land. And then, salvation…the game of cricket was invented! Go alone, or take a friend, on a journey through the rich and exquisitely accurate history of cricket in Cricket Through the Ages.

Listen to find out how things went, and if you like what you’ve heard, here’s where you can subscribe to the show:

Anchor
Apple Podcasts
Castbox
Google Podcasts
Pocket Casts
RadioPublic
Spotify

We’ve had a blast making Let’s Play Arcade! so far, and we really hope that you’re enjoying it too! If you have any feedback for us, we’d love to hear it at derek@geekscape.net. Anything you listeners can do to help spread the word about the podcast would be immensely appreciated — from sharing it on social media like Facebook or Twitter, to leaving us five stars (or even a review) on Apple Podcasts, to sending it to a single friend, it can all make a massive difference! 

Thanks again for coming along on this ride!

Intro, Outro themes by Arcade High

Listen to the previous episode: Let’s Play Arcade! 007 – ‘Dear Reader’

Let’s Play Arcade 007 – ‘Dear Reader’

by Derek Kraneveldt

Welcome back to Let’s Play Arcade!

The outline of this show is simple. We’ve got:

Two best friends.
One randomly selected Apple Arcade game.
Two fresh new semi-randomly selected beers (we basically just grab something new that we see on the shelf).

We don’t talk about the game at all before we record, so we’ll be learning each other’s thoughts and impressions live on air. At the end of each episode, we’ll also randomly draw the game for our next offering, so you’ll always know what’s coming up on the next adventure.

Part of the appeal of doing this show was just getting to “hang out” more often. Back in the day we’d be able to meet up for a beer, but because of where we live at this point, it just can’t really happen. For each episode of Let’s Play Arcade!, we’ll also be cracking open (and sort-of reviewing) a random beer as well. Neither of us really know anything about beer (or drink it all that often), so while we don’t know what anyone has to gain from us talking about them, we’ll see what happens!

Each episode will also feature an ‘after show’, where we’ll basically drivel on about whatever we feel like (stick around after the end theme if you want to listen).

This episode, after John finally found a game that he loved (and actually considered a game) with last week’s The Pinball Wizard… we then drew a game about reading and you can probably guess how things go.

Dear Reader lets you curl up and play your favorite books, turning classic literature into clever word puzzles. Unscramble passages from famous books, unlock unique puzzles, and add new books to your library.

Dear Reader includes fifty literary classics and dozens of different word puzzles, from unscrambling anagrams to swapping lines of text. As far as we know, this is the first game where you can dive in and play with the actual written words from so many tempting books.

Listen to find out how things went, and if you like what you’ve heard, here’s where you can subscribe to the show:

Anchor
Apple Podcasts
Castbox
Google Podcasts
Pocket Casts
RadioPublic
Spotify

We’ve had a blast making Let’s Play Arcade! so far, and we really hope that you’re enjoying it too! If you have any feedback for us, we’d love to hear it at derek@geekscape.net. Anything you listeners can do to help spread the word about the podcast would be immensely appreciated — from sharing it on social media like Facebook or Twitter, to leaving us five stars (or even a review) on Apple Podcasts, to sending it to a single friend, it can all make a massive difference! 

Thanks again for coming along on this ride!

Intro, Outro themes by Arcade High

Listen to the previous episode: Let’s Play Arcade 006 – ‘The Pinball Wizard’

Let’s Play Arcade! 006 – ‘The Pinball Wizard’

by Derek Kraneveldt

Welcome back to Let’s Play Arcade!

The outline of this show is simple. We’ve got:

Two best friends.
One randomly selected Apple Arcade game.
Two fresh new semi-randomly selected beers (we basically just grab something new that we see on the shelf).

We don’t talk about the game at all before we record, so we’ll be learning each other’s thoughts and impressions live on air. At the end of each episode, we’ll also randomly draw the game for our next offering, so you’ll always know what’s coming up on the next adventure.

Part of the appeal of doing this show was just getting to “hang out” more often. Back in the day we’d be able to meet up for a beer, but because of where we live at this point, it just can’t really happen. For each episode of Let’s Play Arcade!, we’ll also be cracking open (and sort-of reviewing) a random beer as well. Neither of us really know anything about beer (or drink it all that often), so while we don’t know what anyone has to gain from us talking about them, we’ll see what happens!

Each episode will also feature an ‘after show’, where we’ll basically drivel on about whatever we feel like (stick around after the end theme if you want to listen).

This episode, can The Pinball Wizard finally end John’s streak of hating everything that’s ever existed? You’ll have to listen to find out!

Oh, young Apprentice! Atop the Mountain of Shadow, at the foot of the castle tower, the wisdom bestowed upon you shall come to pass. A pinball dungeon crawler awaits to test your skill!

Ascend the castle tower. Level up your skills. Fulfill your destiny. Become the wizard you were born to be!

The Pinball Wizard is an arcade adventure game where the main character is propelled into action by a set of flippers, like the ball in a pinball machine. Each level of the game is a contained area inside a tower. The goal of the game is to survive and get to the top of the tower.

Listen to find out how things went, and if you like what you’ve heard, here’s where you can subscribe to the show:

Anchor
Apple Podcasts
Castbox
Google Podcasts
Pocket Casts
RadioPublic
Spotify

We’ve had a blast making Let’s Play Arcade! so far, and we really hope that you’re enjoying it too! If you have any feedback for us, we’d love to hear it at derek@geekscape.net. Anything you listeners can do to help spread the word about the podcast would be immensely appreciated — from sharing it on social media like Facebook or Twitter, to leaving us five stars (or even a review) on Apple Podcasts, to sending it to a single friend, it can all make a massive difference! 

Thanks again for coming along on this ride!

Intro, Outro themes by Arcade High

Listen to the previous episode, Let’s Play Arcade! 005 – ‘Sonic Racing’

Horror Movie Night Episode 108: Arcade (1993)

by Saintmort
When you think horror, do you think Robin Williams in Aladdin? If so, you’re in for a treat, because we’re talking killer genies with 1987’s The Outing! The Wishmaster he’s not, but this genie has some serious power creep going on, yet chooses the laziest, most bizarre ways to kill whomever he comes across. This is the most menacing antique lamp you’ve ever seen, and you’ll rethink your next trip to the history museum after watching it, so strap in as we grant your deepest, darkest desires in the most idiotic ways possible on this episode of Horror Movie Night!

Feel free to join in discussion at on our Facebook Group or in the comments below.

Do you have a movie suggestion for us or just want to tell us stories about your experiences with the movies we’ve watched? Send them to us at HMNPodcast@gmail.com

Also subscribe to our podcast on Soundcloud and iTunes

Arcade Review: Neon Retro Arcade

by Matthew Morrell

Our journey into the heart of Pasadena hit us hard with the nostalgia hammer where we explored the Neon Retro Arcade.

If anything can be said about this place, Neon Retro is indeed an arcade. It’s not a bar. It’s not lounge. It’s not an urban fusion hipster joint meant to be ironic for millennials who pretend to know what Joust is, but really don’t.

(There is no irony here. At Geekscape, our Joust game is strong.)
There is no irony here. At Geekscape, our Joust game is strong.

Neon Retro is an Arcade. Period. It never tries to be anything more or less than a single story, one room building crammed full of classic cabinets, and a handful of pinball machines. 

Neon Retro Rear INT

There’s also a couch in the back sitting in front of a pair of huge flat screens for some console gaming. That’s it. Despite it’s simplicity, a great deal of this place’s charm is tied to the location.

If you brave the ubiquitous traffic on a Saturday night headed for Neon Retro, prepare to do some light time-traveling. If you’re not already a part of it, you’ll notice a retro feel long before you even enter the arcade: having found yourself surrounded by the early 1920’s neo-art-deco buildings. It’s a part of the city that has recaptured that fictional golden age Americana vibe. As you walk over towards 28 South Raymond from any of the nearby parking garages, your mindset should already be well in tune with the past.

Neon Retro’s facade appears like any other store front window. Only the bright neon title suggests that the contents within are of a different era than any of the other shop on the street.

Then you enter.

Neon Retro INT front

80’s music is pumping through the air. Familiar theme songs play; Street Fighter II to your left, The Simpsons in front of you, Tetris somewhere in the distance. Before frolicking through the rows of cabinets with all your past favorites, you’ll need to line up for your sticker. What sticker you ask? After only a ten dollar entry fee, the employee will slap (or kindly hand you) a name tag with a time stamp.

For the next hour, you’ll be playing all the games you want for free. FREE.

Or until you get your ass handed to you in Street Fighter and walk away covered in the shame of your failure.
Or until you get your ass handed to you in Street Fighter and walk away covered in the shame of your failure.

Again, it doesn’t get much more simple than that. There’s games, games, and more games. After an hour, you can either go home or wait in line to buy more time. Be forewarned that if it’s a busy night, there can be a line. The few times this field report checked in on the property however, there wasn’t, but don’t say we didn’t warn you.

We'll let you put together the visual pun yourself, we've already been reprimanded for making it too obvious.
“For the last time, no, End of Line does not start here.”

One of the special touches that this place has can actually be found on its website: the High Score chart. It’s an invitation not just to return to the property, but to consider yourself part of the Neon Retro community: “Here’s my score, come to my place and try to best me.” It draws you in, and invites others to come down to see what you’re made of. OR, you can simply use it to brag about how you’re hot shit. Either way, there’s an overwhelming sense that the management who cares for this arcade, cares about the community they’ve cultivated around gaming.

The space is clean, there’s a restroom on sight, and the front desk has snacks. This place is definitely rated ‘E’ for everyone so bring the kids. If you really forgot to feed yourself, or need a drink, there are more than enough local pubs and coffee shops in the area to satisfy.

If there was any real criticism about the place, it could be argued that it is on the small side. It doesn’t boast the spacious rooms of Eighty Two, or the sheer quantity of games jammed into the hallway of the One Up. However, with a rotating selection of arcade cabinets, and a guarantee of an hour worth of FREE games, this place sits in the Goldilocks Zone of Arcades in the greater LA area.

It’s not too big, nor too small, Neon Retro is just right.

Arcade Review: Los Angeles – The One Up

by Matthew Morrell

Venturing back into Los Angeles is like willingly sliding down a water-slide without any running water; excruciatingly slow, uncomfortably hot, and often physically painful. Nevertheless, there was an Arcade that needed exploring. So, away we went…

Turning East on the 101, and exiting Woodman, you may pass by what at first glance looks like any other cocktail lounge on the Ventura Avenue. Look closely at the marquee however, you’ll see it perched above the entrance: a lone Space Invader.

If you’re smart, you’d have made this journey a little after seven in the evening where the lounge is only twenty-one and up. You may also need to make reservations ahead of time as the place can get awfully crowded. However, every inch of this space is used to the fullest.

"You have a lot more bar room if you just jam your living room into the ceiling."
“You have a lot more bar room if you just jam your living room into the ceiling.”

Artistically, The One Up exists in a space if Captain-N built built a Gypsy Den in Wonderland. Pretty to look at while sober, mildly disorienting depending on how long you’ve been at the bar.

In order of function, The One Up is decidedly a cocktail lounge that also has an arcade. That’s not necessarily a negative criticism mind you. The cocktails are excellent (try the Monkey’s Brew), with a selective wine and beer menu to match. Entrees are also expertly crafted, from the mouthwatering turkey meatballs to their unbelievably savory Hawaiian pulled pork sandwich. A refined and unique style and taste has clearly been cultivated at The One Up.

These sliders lasted about as long as I do playing Dark Souls: all of them were devoured in mere seconds.
These sliders lasted about as long as I do playing Dark Souls: all of them were devoured in mere seconds.

When you first step in, you’ll be asked how many in your party or if you have a reservation. If you intend on bringing a friend, definitely phone ahead. Seating is limited, but this does allow for a relaxed, intimate and cozy atmosphere.

So why a lounge first and arcade second? If you do your homework, you’ll find well over a hundred unique games. You read that right. It’s over a hundred. Also, they’re all free to play. You could be laying some serious hurt down in Mortal Kombat 4, all night long, for free… Unless you’re best friend is secretly a Mortal Kombat savant  and wrecks you.

"Oh, sorry, I totally didn't know that move would disembowel you." - A Liar
“Oh, sorry, I totally didn’t know that move would disembowel you.” – A Liar

At this point, the sheer number of free games makes The One Up certainly sound like an Arcade. And you would be right. With the house lights turned low, and bright neon pink accents illuminating the game room by all intents and purpose this place is an arcade. One can’t help but consider however that the games are in service of the overall style of the lounge, and not the main attraction.

"Pictured: zero arcade games."
“Pictured: zero arcade games.”

With a name like The One Up, it certainly suggests that this particular arcade is a cut above the rest. More games? Free games! Dress code! Every square inch of the place is tailor made to look like the coolest eighties hangout there ever was. They’re even playing The Last Starfighter (1984) on one of the flatscreens for Glob’s sake!

It does certainly depend on one’s perspective on what one needs in an arcade. If you’re looking for a comfortable lounge to take a date and enjoy pristine cocktails with a delicious entree’ or two, look no further than The One Up. If you’re looking for a place that wants to showcase as many original arcade cabinets they can cram into a room, perhaps this isn’t what you’re looking for.

It’s true that The One Up will surpass most every other lounge as the most stylish, and certainly nostalgic bar on the block. Their ability to have so many classic 8-bit games is also truly impressive. But, there’s something beyond quantity and style when a place is willing to jam dozens of refrigerator sized machines into their place to allow the games to speak for themselves.

Pictured: over 100 games in this one hallway.
Pictured: over 100 games in this one hallway.

When you visit The One Up, and this writer strongly urges you to do so, keep in mind that you’re getting the total package of equal parts bar, restaurant, lounge, and arcade. All things being equal though, the games aren’t any more or less than the whole; they’re part of the ensemble.

So leave the quarters at home, bring a date, and if you arm yourself with the right cocktail, get ready to have a merry night full of all the classic eighties feels.

Arcade Review: Cobra Arcade and Bar

by Matthew Morrell

American Arcades are Reborn!

If anyone’s ever had that moment while being harassed by some troll online in the comfort in their own home and said to themselves, “Where the hell are all the adults who play video games?”

Cobra Arcade and Bar in downtown Phoenix, Arizona is that place.

To verify this claim, this field reporter spent his Saturday trekking over 700 miles into hell’s front porch, Phoenix, Arizona. Temperatures reached a soul crushing 114 degrees. Expectations for whether or not this little pub was worth it began to climb.

Located just a stone’s throw away from the Phoenix Convention Center, this bar immediately exceeded those expectations. It is exactly what you’ve been looking for: a haven for gamers who grew up in the classic arcade era. Of course, if you’re at least over twenty-one they’ll let you in regardless of your recollection of the eighties and nineties. That being said, the nostalgia factor is strong in this most beautiful of bars.

She's not looking down on you, she's wondering, "What took you so damn long to come home?"
She’s not looking down on you, she’s wondering, “What took you so damn long to come home?”

Beautiful is by no means an over exaggeration (Nor was this field reporter paid to be this flowery). Even before you enter, a gorgeous black and white mural, wooden patio deck, and the delicious scent of the food-truck-of-the-week welcomes you in. Your senses aren’t lying, you’re home now.

Inside, situated underneath what looks like the engines of the Rebel Blockade Runner from Star Wars, you’ll find bartenders frantically running orders. Two huge flat-screens will play whatever happens to suit the night best; Heavy Metal, Planet of the Apes ‘68… you name it. Crammed in the corner is a live DJ spinning a perfect mix of eclectic, and kinetic tracks to mash buttons to.

Even on the busiest of nights (Saturday post Arizona Comic-Con), everyone is greeted, served, and given the time of day by friendly staff. Their in house cocktails are second to none (try an Invader). Or if you want a plain brew, they’ve got plenty to choose from along with a rotating list of ciders and beers. Take your pick from a respectable wine list too. Or, if you just really need the caffeine, Cobra’s got you covered.

What Cobra real boils down to however is that it’s far beyond a bar that just happens to have arcade games. It is without question equal parts bar as it is arcade. Among the handful of people this writer spoke with, the only criticism that could be given was a lack of racing games, and only one shooter to speak of (None other than the OG CarnEvile). But, that’s hardly a factor if you’re busy sinking quarters into TMNT: Turtles in Time, The Simpsons, or an intense two on two game of NBA Freaking Jam.

They even had Space Harrier. You heard me. Space. Harrier.

Well worth the loss of many a quarter #humblebrag
Well worth the loss of many a quarter #humblebrag

Seriously, feast your eyes upon the official list here and tell me, are you not entertained?

Clearly a rhetorical question.
Clearly a rhetorical question.

What was even better than the astounding selection of games, was once again, Cobra cares about their cabinets and the gamers who use them. From open to close while present, this report found NONE of the games Out of Order. None of them. Street Fighter II had a weird joystick issue going on at one point. Within mere moments, an In-House Tech had surgically opened the cabinet, healed it back to good, and players were kicking ass until last call. When the token machine ran out of tokens, a heartbeat had passed before it was refilled again.

So if you’re asking yourself, is it worth to escape the comfort of the ole’ homestead console or PC and venture outside? Deep down in your heart of hearts, you’re craving a friendly environment, delicious drinks, and an expertly curated collection of game cabinets. Cobra Arcade and Bar is the second home you’ve be searching for.

Cash in a sick day or two.

Go there now.

  • Matthew B. Morrell

We Are Ready To Test Our Might At Early Access ‘Pokken Tournament’ Competitions!

by Matt Rodriguez

In what seems to be a never-ending stream of Pokémon news for the month of February, early access competitions for Pokken Tournament have been announced nationwide!  Initially, the only tournaments available were at the Pokémon Championship Series and EVO, but now various Gamestop stores across the country will be holding tournaments as well!

The winners of these Gamestop tournaments will advance to the Early Access Finals, which will be held at the Nintendo NY store on March 17th.  The winner of the Early Access Finals will then be invited to the National Finals in Ohio.  The competitions will also be divided up into age brackets, one for those born in 2001 or later, and one for those that are born in 2000 or earlier.

The tournaments will be taking place on February 27th, with registration beginning at 10am.  The full list of Gamestops holding competitions are as follows:

2201 Preston Road, Plano, TX
1841 Chamblee Tucker Road, Chamblee, GA
3972 Barranca Parkway, Irvine, CA
8115 S. John Young Parkway, Orlando, FL
6451 W. Diversey Ave., Chicago, IL
242 Bellevue Square, Bellevue, WA
32 E. 14th St. – Union Square, New York, NY
3914 Rivermark Plaza, Santa Clara, CA

For those of us California, this is the second major event being held in the same state, with a later event being the Pokemon Boutique held in JapanLA (starting 6PM).  February 27th has been announced to be “Pokémon Day” and it is sure to be a stacked day!  I’ll definitely be making my best effort to attend both!

Pokken Tournament is a tournament style 3D fighting game featuring Pokémon, and is being developed by Bandai Namco.  It is currently only available in arcades across Japan, but will be seeing a Wii U console release on March 18, 2016.

Source: Business Wire, via Always Nintendo

The ‘Evo 2016’ Lineup And New Character Announcement Has Us Hyped!

by Matt Rodriguez

Evo 2016’s full lineup of games has been announced, and it looks pretty amazing! The games announced are: Street Fighter V, Guilty Gear Xrd -REVELATOR, Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3, Pokken Tournament, Super Smash Bros. for Wii U, Super Smash Bros. Melee, Killer Instinct, Mortal Kombat X, and Tekken 7 Fated Retribution.

evo-2016-lineup-stream

It’s interesting to note that quite a few of the games, such as Pokken Tournament and Street Fighter V are released this year, with Tekken 7 most likely to be arcade exclusive when Evo arrives.  There’s no doubt that character and strategy tiers will still be in debate by the Fighting Game Community, so it is very likely that we will see many diverse matches.  It is also worth noting that Nintendo in particular holds 1/3rd of the game lineup, beating Capcom in that regard, which is unprecedented!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMIWr0uEHg8

“The Evolution Championship Series (Evo for short) represents the largest and longest-running fighting game tournaments in the world.”  This year, Evo will be taking place from July 15-17 at Las Vegas, Nevada, although one doesn’t have to go in person to experience the excitement–they also to live streams on Twitch and other live stream channels. Because of the scale of this event, it is very common for companies that manage fighting game brands to announce new games and characters for existing games in the days leading up to, and during Evo.  One such character, Nina Williams, was announced yesterday.  Nina Williams is a veteran character of the Tekken series, and is most notably known for her rivalry with her sister Anna Williams.  Her fighting technique is loosely based on Assassination Arts, and even though she and Anna are related, their fighting styles are distinctly different. We are glad to have her back!  Her new outfit sports a wedding dress, so we are also curious how this will fit into Tekken’s diverse storyline!

Sources: EVO Home (shoryuken) page, Shoryuken Evo 2016 Details Revealed

New Japanese Pokémon Arcade Game Gives You A Workout!

by Matt Rodriguez

A new Pokémon arcade game has been announced by Bandai Namco for Japanese markets, and this one is very physical!

In the style of “chuck the ball” carnival games, Pokémon will appear on screen, and the players will throw actual Pokeballs at the screen in order to catch the Pokémon. Those with high scores will be reward with the opportunity to catch legendary Pokémon, such as Rayquaza.  After every game successfully completed, the player will be given one of 24 collectible cards.

…And I’m just wondering how the game’s screen will be able to handle so many Pokeballs being thrown at it, if DDR machines are any indication on how “serious” arcade-goers can take physical games.

This isn’t the first time that Bandai Namco has worked with The Pokémon Company on arcade spinoff titles. Already in Japanese arcades, and limited American arcades is the title Pokken Tournament, which has been announced to receive a Wii U release this year.

Do you think this game will make it state-side?  Would you like to see it in your local arcades?  Please let us know in the comments!

Source: Siliconera, Bandai Namco JP

‘Pokken Tournament’ Location Tests Are Coming To Dave & Busters!

by Josh Jackson

Did you think we were going to have to wait longer to play Pokken Tournament outside of hoping on a plane to Japan? Thanks to Namco Bandai and Dave & Busters, experiencing the game just became a little more manageable.

During a Reddit AMA with Kevin Bachus, the Senior Vice President of Entertainment and Game Strategy at the restaurant, bar and game chain, confirmed that the highly anticipated Pokemon fighting game from the team behind Tekken will be coming to their arcades as a location test for the states.

From the AMA:

Yes. We will be testing Pokken. Candidly both NAMCO and I are more optimistic about that title and our typical guests than Tekken.

Obviously, details are lacking, but it’s good to know that it’s coming. Still, when will it arrive? Which locations will carry it? And does this location test mean they’re testing releasing more arcade units, or are they measuring overall interest to see if its worth porting over the inevitable console version? Either way, more Pokken is a great thing as far as I’m concerned, and you know we’ll be in those inevitable long lines when it starts popping up.

Check out the latest trailers, including the reveals of Charizard and Weavile, here. Do you plan on camping out and pushing past all the drunks to play? Sound off in the comments!

‘Persona 4: The Ultimax Ultra Suplex Hold’ Makes Fighting Game Names Even More Ridiculous

by Josh Jackson

Persona 4 Arena was one of those games that we never knew we wanted, but were happy it exists. After reviewing it last year, I learned that this odd pairing between the RPG developer Atlus and the fighting game aficionados at Arc System Works, (responsible for the Guilty Gear and BlazBlue franchises,) resulted in one of the most enjoyable 2D fighters in years, so much so that I consider it my favorite console game of 2012. Its fast paced action, unique fighting mechanics involving both the characters and their unique Persona’s and deep story that served as a sequel to both the third and fourth RPG titles, and there was little to complain about once our arcade sticks were in hand.

So its no surprise that P4:A would get a follow up. As a matter of fact, I was expecting them to go the popular route and nickel and dime us with expensive DLC characters before coming out with some kind of director’s cut. Imagine my surprise when Atlus officially announced Persona 4: The Ultimax Ultra Suplex Hold. Yes, that’s the real name. Yes it’s absurd. Yes, the game looks awesome!

Persona 4 Ultamax Yukari

Joining the existing roster of characters spanning the casts of Persona 3 and 4 are fan favorites from 3. Yukari arrives sporting some Pink Ranger-esque outfit and comes equipped with her trademark bow and uses her Persona’s wind abilities to redirect her projectiles at her enemies. Junpei has dedicated his time to baseball since giving up fighting shadows, which is reflected by his strength growing for every “run” scored when he hits his opponents with his bat. Joining them is newcomer Sho Minazuki. Nothing is known about this fighter, but it’s safe to say he’ll play a decent role as the story unfolds.

Aside from the new characters, every existing fighter will come with rebalanced skills and new attacks, in addition to new Shadow Forms. Each character aside from Elizabeth and Shadow Labrys, (you know, since she’s already a shadow,) has a shadow version, which will give up certain abilities like Bursts and One More Cancels for a quick charging SP meter that can become unlimited for a short amount of time. How players will approach each of these scenarios adds an extra layer of depth to an already deep fighting game, and to say this news is exciting enough. Seeing as the backgrounds, themes and stages in the trailer look much darker, even implying that shadows are roaming in the real world, gives it a Persona 3 vibe. Does this mean the Dark Hour is returning?

Persona 4 Ultamax Junpei

We’ll have to wait until the end of this year to find out. P4:U is scheduled to arrive in Japanese arcades this Winter with a console release surely around the corner. Check out the trailer and enjoy the awesomeness of the absurdity. Is this enough to hold us over until Persona 5 is finally released? Let us know in the comments!

Source: Operationrainfall.com

Mario Kart Arcade Game Coming From Nintendo And Namco!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Unlike North America, the Japanese arcade market is still (somewhat) flourishing. This means that they’re getting some amazing titles that we’ll never, ever see.

 

Like the new Mario Kart arcade title, Mario Kart: Arcade GP DX. The game is set to release later this year, but will be shown off in just a few weeks at the Japanese Amusement Expo. Of course, it looks like classic Mario Kart, but with some fresh ideas; the gliding mechanic from Mario Kart 7 is still around, and this new edition will also show driver’s faces using a unique camera system. It’s also being developed by Namco Bandai… yep, you read that right.

 

Mario Kart
Every loves gliders, right?

 

So Namco Bandai is doing an Arcade Mario Kart… now what about the Wii U version? Could Namco be developing that as well? Will the camera features make it to the Wii U version? Maybe we’ll see some classic Namco characters! We should know everything come this year’s E3, as Mario Kart will be unveiled and playable at the popular expo.

 

In any case, I wish there was an arcade around me so I could get my hands on this!

 

Source: IGN

Are You A Bad Enough Dude for A Sequel? Bad Dudes 2 Get’s A Kickstarter!

by Shane O'Hare

Are you a dude of the 80’s? Are you a dude of the 90’s? Do you remember one of the greatest arcade beat-em-ups of all time? If you are, then you will be excited to know that Bad Dudes has a sequel planned and you can help get it going with Pinestripes games Kickstarter Campaign! Check out an interview with the developer below for the full story.

Now, it takes a lot to get me excited for a new game, let alone a kickstarter campaign. When I heard that one of my all time favorite games was getting a possible sequel I freaked out. My earliest memories with gaming was my Dad getting me a PC copy of Bad Dudes, with a Gravis joystick and teaching me DOS prompts to get the game running. I was brought into a world where the president was kidnapped by Ninjas and I and a friend were the only hope for the USA.

If you feel only a slight nostalgic for this series, or if you enjoy the great meme the game has offered over the years, then you should donate.

The kickstarter can be found HERE

Pinestripe games can be found HERE

Together we can bring a great game back to the forefront!

Marvel vs Capcom: Origins Announced

by Shawn Madden

Have you been hoping that Capcom would release the first Marvel vs Capcom or even Marvel Super Heroes? Well now you can have both in one! The game will merge both fighting styles giving you the choice of classic one-on-one battles or you can choose the three-on-three tag style of Marvel vs Capcom. The game features an online multiplayer mode with a limit of eight players in the lobby. Players that are waiting for their turn will be able to watch the match currently going on by using the spectator mode. Marvel vs Capcom: Origins will also feature HD graphics and the ability to save replays of players’ matches. The game will be coming to Xbox Live Arcade and Playstation Network for $14.99 (1200 Microsoft Points).

Marvel vs. Capcom: Origins brings two classic arcade fighters – “Marvel Super Heroes” and “Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes” – together and to the modern generation. This September, fight like a hero, play like a legend!

Source: IGN

Midway Arcade Now Available for iOS Devices!

by jake108

Midway Arcade features 10 classic titles available to purchase on the app store for 0.99 cents  now. Upon purchasing the app, you’ll get a virtual showroom featuring:

Spy Hunter: Race down a freeway in an armed sports car and destroy enemies while protecting civilian vehicles;
Rampage: Reduce the city to rubble as gigantic monsters George (a King-Kong-like gorilla), Lizzie (a Godzilla-like dinosaur/lizard), and Ralph (a giant werewolf);
Defender: Defeat waves of invading aliens while protecting astronauts in this 2D shooting game;
Joust: While riding a flying ostrich, fight to defeat enemy knights riding buzzards;
Root Beer Tapper: As the bartender, serve beer and collect empty mugs and tips without letting the thirsty patrons’ patience expire;
Arch Rivals: In this Basket Brawl, outscore opponents as a crowd pleaser, rebound king, a defensive giant and more;
Skill-Based Games: Beat your friends’ top scores in Pool, Air Hockey, Roll Ball and Basketball.

Gamers may also purchase two additional in-game packs to add to their virtual showroom for 99 cents each.

Fantasy Game Pack

Gauntlet I: Hack and slash through monsters as they try to exit the dungeon maze;
Gauntlet II: The monsters return in this acclaimed sequel, with all new levels, and challenges;
Wizard of Wor: “Worriors” must make their way through monster-infested dungeons to destroy the Wizard of Wor.

Action Game Pack

APB: Playing as Officer Bob, a rookie police officer, pursue law-breakers, cite and arrest criminals – and pick up donuts along the way;
NARC: Arrest and kill drug offenders, confiscate their money and drugs, to defeat Mr. Big;
Total Carnage: As a member of the Doomsday Squad, invade evil dictator’s General Akhboob’s base and destroy mutants, rescue hostages and capture Akhboob.

The Midway Arcade App is available for $0.99 from the App Store on iPad, iPhone and iPod touch or at www.itunes.com/appstore. The Fantasy Game Pack and Action Game Packs are available for $0.99 each through In-App Purchase.