InFamous Second Son

Game Length and Quality: Should Play Time Matter?

by Josh JacksonMarch 26, 2014

In recent weeks, the topic of game length has been a hot one. With games like Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes and South Park: The Stick Of Truth getting knocked because of their length, (the former being beatable in under six minutes), the question keeps popping up. Should length be a deciding factor in terms of whether or not a game is worth buying? After all, the point of gaming is to have fun, regardless of if the game lasts five hours or five minutes. On the other side, when gamers are expected to spend $60 on a game that can be completely finished in a sitting or two, it’s easy to see why so many people are up in arms about the dwindling hour per dollar ratio games today are pulling in. But as long as the game is fun, should length really matter?

There are plenty of games that back up the idea that length doesn’t make a game. Take Portal for example. Clocking in at roughly three hours on a first run, its level of wit, innovation and solid game mechanics launched it into legendary status. Does the fact that it can be finished in less time than it takes to download a PS3 update make it any less great? It definitely didn’t stop it from being one of my favorite games of all time. Even back when I was a kid, games were routinely $60 and could be finished in even less time than Portal, but people didn’t make nearly as big of a stink over it as gamers do today, (unless you were our parents).

The cake was a lie, but the value wasn’t!

So what’s different about today that makes it a big deal compared to the days of bit wars and pixels? Namely, standards have changed a great deal since then. Many of today’s gamers seem to have became “hardcore gamers”, (a term that I hate, but it works nonetheless), during the PS1 or PS2 days if my Gamestop days indicate anything. Back then, the standard PS1 game was $40 with $50 being saved for your big games like the Final Fantasy series. Even short $60 games like Star Fox 64, (which gave my mom a heart attack when I proudly announced that I beat it the same morning we bought it), had multiple paths that were hard to find without a guide, two endings, medal challenges, a multiplayer mode that still holds up and a RUMBLE PAK! Definitely worth the price I think.

Star Fox 64 was short, but oooooh so sweet!

Fast forward to the HD era, and you have games that not only cost more, but are either much shorter or hold back content through DLC, sometimes both! Additionally, as I mentioned before, past games were traditionally cheaper and provided more content. It’s easy to see why gamers are unhappy with this idea of being asked to pay $60 for a 12 hour RPG with no new game plus or content outside of the story, or a prologue game charging $30 for an hour or two of campaign play.

However, focusing too much on length pressures developers to pad their games with meaningless content for the sole purpose of making them longer. Games like Knack would have been much better received if they got to the point hours sooner, instead of dragging out the story for fifteen hours when the game play didn’t support it. What we were left with was a game that didn’t know when to quit, expecting us to find enjoyment with the same abilities we learned in the tutorial all the way through. Protip: That didn’t happen. Even great games like Resident Evil 4 could have done without the majority of the Salazar section of the game. How many times did we have to rescue Ashley again?

RE4 was great. It would have been better with less of this guy.

With that said, length definitely belongs in the discussion as to whether or not a game is worth it as long as the content is strong. Take a game like Lightning Returns. It has a long campaign that rarely feels like filler, has addicting game play mechanics and tons of side and new game + content. Compare that to Stick Of Truth, a game that released only a month later. It was highly enjoyable for a plethora of reasons, but aside from the story, there was almost nothing to do after the credits rolled. The only reason I would replay it is to laugh at its fantastic plot, but I could get that from a Let’s Play on YouTube. I couldn’t get the same experience from Lightning Returns unless I played it, which further adds to its value. I fully understand that South Park took a lot of time, funding and writing from Matt Stone and Trey Parker to make it come to life, but couldn’t it have had a bonus dungeon that didn’t require new dialogue? A new game plus? The ability to go back to completed dungeons? Anything? No? Okay then…

Stick Of Truth‘s biggest flaw was its “city” amount of content.

But the biggest issue that I have as a reviewer, is whether or not that should affect scores. Reviews absolutely should call out games for being padded or being too short if the game had the potential to offer more, but as time goes on and prices drop, (which can happen as early as a month after release lately), the value goes up. So when someone buys Ground Zeroes in a year at $10 and looks up reviews after he finishes, (naturally to see how many people share his or her opinion since it’s the only one that’s right), and thinks the reviewers are idiots for knocking the game’s length. After all, this person got it for $10, and $10 for a few hours is definitely better than $30. Over time, the length becomes less and less relevant compared to the price, which makes that review become less relevant in the process.

True Story.

In the end, the best games are the ones that know how long its content can stay entertaining, but if two games are equally entertaining, but one lasts longer, I don’t know how it could be argued that length isn’t important. The end goal of gaming is to have fun, so as long as that goal can be reached, that’s what’s most important, but can we agree that games like Portal were appropriately priced? And that its sequel was justified in its $40 price hike since its campaign was easily close to triple its length on top of an entirely separate co op campaign? What about the idea that Lightning Returns offers much more value than South Park? And can’t we agree that sequels especially shouldn’t have less content than its predecessors, (like InFamous: Second Son compared to its two prequels)? There’s no way that this can’t be considered anything but a problem, and it seems to be growing. Taking everything in consideration, while length doesn’t come close to the end all be all of whether or not a game is great, it’s impossible to say that length shouldn’t matter.

Don’t agree? Of course you don’t, it’s the Internet! Did you love Ground Zeroes despite its length? Or maybe you have your own examples of games that are too long? Let me know what your take on the situation is!

Get Ready For The Release Of ‘Infamous: Second Son’ With Eight Minutes Of New Gameplay Footage!

by Derek KraneveldtMarch 13, 2014

Briefly: Following the live action ad released earlier this week, Sony has debuted a new eight minute preview of Infamous: Second Son, which hits stores on March 23rd. Sucker Punch is clearly using everything that they’ve learned from the franchise’s first two iterations, and is really turning the dial up to 11 with all of their new ideas and gameplay mechanics.

Seriously, those reflections, those particles, that action… Second Son is going to freaking rock, and I cannot wait to get my hands on it.

You can take a look at the new video below (you’ll want to watch the entire thing, trust me) and let us know if you’ll be picking the game up! With Titanfall (which is unreal, read our review here), MGS: Ground Zeroes, and Infamous: Second Son all releasing in March, it’s going to be a busy month!

Live-Action Ad Reminds Us How Excited We Are For ‘Infamous: Second Son’

by Derek KraneveldtMarch 7, 2014

Briefly: We’re just a few weeks away from the anticipated launch of one of the PS4’s most anticipated games, Infamous: Second Son. Sucker Punch is clearly using everything that they’ve learned from the franchise’s first two iterations, and is really turning the dial up to 11 with all of their new ideas and gameplay mechanics.

A new live-action ad has just launched for the game. As it’s live action, it doesn’t actually feature any footage from the title, but it reminds me of how damned excited I am for it.

You can take a look at the video below, and be sure to let us know if you’re looking forward to the launch of Infamous: Second Son on March 23rd!

http://youtu.be/jHzh96ehv4A

New ‘Infamous: Second Son’ Trailer Shows Off A Breathtaking Seattle!

by Derek KraneveldtJanuary 27, 2014

Briefly: Sony today debuted a brand-new look at the Sucker Punch PS4 exclusive Infamous: Second Son.

As a huge fan of the Infamous series thus far, I have to say that Second Son looks extremely promising. Sucker Punch is clearly using everything that they’ve learned from the franchise’s first two iterations, and is really turning the dial up to 11 with all of their new ideas and gameplay mechanics.

Today’s video explores the game’s new setting, Seattle, and it’s easy to see that Infamous: Second Son is set to be the PS4’s best looking game to date. Take a look at the new preview below, and let us know what you think!

Infamous: Second Son hits stores on March 21st!

Geekscape Games Presents: The Games of 2014

by Josh JacksonJanuary 13, 2014

If our list of the greatest games of 2013 taught us one thing, it’s that last year was a fantastic year to be a gamer. With that said, 2014 will mark the first full year that all of the now current gen consoles will be available. In addition to the continued stream of solid software for the 3DS while we STILL cross our fingers for the Vita to have a strong showing, there are plenty of games across the board that are worth getting hyped for. With that said, there are some that just can’t be ignored, which is why we’ve compiled the games you should look out for in 2014.

Watch Dogs

Starting off as one of the most anticipated games of 2013, a packed holiday season and the need for some extra development time shifted Watch Dogs into 2014. The ability to essentially hack an entire city promises to bring some fresh ideas to the sandbox genre, and with all of the videos and screenshots shown so far, this one’s looking like it’ll satisfy that action craving too.

Watch Dogs is coming to Xbox 360, PS3, Wii U, PS4, Xbox One and PC in mid 2014.

Metal Gear Solid V

Buried under all of the controversy surrounding MGS V, (including long time Snake voice actor, David Hayter, getting the boot in favor of Kiefer Sutherland,) is another potential must own from the developers at Kojima Productions. Promising to delve deeper into the motivations of Big Boss and further detail his eventual creation of Outer Heaven, this fifth game will be the first to take the signature stealth of the series into an open world setting. Split into two parts, Ground Zeroes will come to the PS3, PS4, Xbox 360 and Xbox One on March 18th with Phantom Pain’s release date still listed as TBD.

The Elder Scrolls Online

After much rumor and speculation, The Elder Scrolls Online was finally confirmed to be a thing last year. Scheduled for a summer release, gamers will finally be able to combine their love for the environments, lore and abilities of The Elder Scrolls franchise with their slightly higher enthusiasm for berating each other in an online setting with their “vast” gaming knowledge. Get ready to pwn some n00bs starting on April 4th for PC and Mac users, while PS4 and Xbox One owners will soon follow suit in June.

Destiny

As the first outing for Bungie since breaking away from Microsoft and the Halo franchise that put them on the map, Destiny has a lot to prove. Thankfully, looking at all of the information we know about the game, it seems like it’s on the right track. Combining their FPS know-how with customizable characters, co op missions and a desolate environment, and we’re looking at what could be considered a marriage between a game like Halo and Borderlands. Destiny will land on September 9th for the PS3, PS4, Xbox 360 and Xbox One.

InFamous: Second Son

The first InFamous set the stage for being a super powered conduit with a city as our playground. The second allowed us to combine and expand our powers while fighting in a world where we weren’t the only one with powers anymore. Second Son is looking to build upon the legacy that Cole and company left behind with new powers, upgraded visuals and a new cast that’s truly looking to put the PS4 on the map. InFamous will release on March 21st.

Titanfall

As one of the most talked about games at last year’s E3, Titanfall seems to be the reason to make it to another year for FPS fans. Part arena shooter, part mech fighter, the game has some serious potential in the sense that it can bring a ton of new dynamics to the multiplayer shooter playground. As the first game from Respawn, the team consisting of the scorned devs formerly of Infinity Ward, (the core Call of Duty team,) Titanfall is another title that has a lot to prove, yet doesn’t seem like it will have much of a problem doing so come March 11th, exclusively to Windows, Xbox 360 and Xbox One.

Project Spark

One of the most impressive pieces of tech shown off at E3, Project Spark is part world builder, part action/platformer and all gorgeous. Using Smartglass technology, players can alter the world, interact with characters and mold their experience with a touch of their finger. Scheduled for a 2014 release barring any delays, Windows, 360 and Xbox One gamers can look forward to put their god playing skills to the test.

Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze

Another title that got pushed from the end of last year, Donkey Kong Country appears to be well worth the wait. Considering that Donkey Kong Country Returns was such a fantastic display of what the 2D platforming genre can do, the addition of Dixie and Cranky can only give the good people at Retro Studios even more ideas to squeeze out of the old ape. DKC: TF is coming exclusively to Wii U on February 21st.

Mario Kart 8

The success of Mario Kart Wii and MK7 prove that this series is a gaming juggernaut, selling millions upon millions of copies every time a new entry in the popular racing franchise is released. Every new version brings something new to the table, with 8 being no exception thanks to the anti gravity tracks that were shown off during its reveal. It blew us away at E3, and now we can’t wait to get our hands on the steering wheel again in a few short months. Look for Mario Kart 8 in Spring, also exclusively for Wii U.

Hyrule Warriors

At the end of 2013, Hyrule Warriors went from being completely unknown to being one of the most talked about games heading into the new year. Combining the characters, environments and weapons of The Legend of Zelda with the hack and slash game play of Dynasty Warriors did more than just raise a few eyebrows, but watching the game in action was an incredible sight that turned most of us into believers. Hyrule Warriors has a loose release date of 2014.

Bayonetta 2

Speaking of controversy, the memory of Bayonetta 2 being announced as a Wii U exclusive is still vividly burned in my memory. Despite the outcries of disloyalty, (despite the fact that the game would’ve reportedly never been possible without Nintendo’s funding,) Platinum Games seems to be providing what it’s gained that loyalty with in the first place; tight, refined game play with over the top enemies and characters. Action games don’t get much better than their offerings, and after trying out Bayo 2 myself, I’m comfortable in saying this tradition will carry on strong. Bayonetta 2 is set to arrive sometime in 2014.

Super Smash Bros.

Easily in the running for the most anticipated game of 2014, Super Smash Bros for Wii U and 3DS will bring back the blockbuster mascot fighter to consoles AND will also mark its handheld debut. New arenas, characters, (including Megaman!) and features are sure to make Super Smash Bros a must own on almost anyone’s list. Scheduled for a vague 2014 release, we can calm our excitement with daily updates at smashbros.com… although sometimes I think it makes the wait so much worse!

Chibi Robo: Photo Finder

Another late 2013 surprise, Chibi Robo didn’t get nearly as much fanfare as Hyrule Warriors before it. Nonetheless, for a series many considered all but dead outside of Japan, seeing Photo Finder get a U.S. release date was a high note for fans of the cult Gamecube classic. Once again being tasked with bringing joy to all around it, Chibi Robo must help create a museum of artifacts by collecting your own household items. Photo Finder is available now on the eShop for an insanely low price of $10, so I suggest checking it out. Expect a full review in the coming days!

Bravely Default

As I mentioned in my preview article, Bravely Default hits all the right notes for old school RPG fans looking for a nostalgia trip. Its tough enemies, interchangeable job system and classic fantasy setting blends in well with the new features added, especially the Brave, Default and StreetPass functions. Are you an RPG and a 3DS fan? Then mark February 7th on your calendars, because Bravely Default is looking like a fantastic ride.

Yoshi’s New Island

Produced by Takashi Tezuka, the creative director of the original Yoshi’s Island, Nintendo is looking to bring the modern feel to the classic Yoshi game play in the same way New Super Mario Bros has for gaming’s most popular plumber. Coming this spring, Yoshi’s New Island is looking to kick off a great year for Mario’s noble steed, especially if Yarn Yoshi makes it into 2014 as well.

Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy

2014 marks the year of the gentleman with a double dose of Professor Layton. First up, the Professor, Luke and Emmy will head off towards their final showdown with Descole in Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy, which will simultaneously serve as the final game of the prequel trilogy AND the reported final game of the series. With more mysteries, picarats and puzzles you can tip your top had towards, this beloved series will get the sendoff it deserves come February 28^th.

Professor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright Ace Attorney

The second Layton game this year will be the crossover that many have been clamoring over for what feels like forever, (myself included!) After being in localization hell for far too long, 2013 confirmed that we would FINALLY see the Ace Attorney and the Top Hat Professor team up Stateside. Combining the court room drama of Ace Attorney with the puzzle solving challenges of the Layton series, a 2014 release window means we’ll finally get to experience this dream team.

Kirby’s Triple Deluxe

Kirby’s 3DS debut is coming later in 2014 for us, but word out of Japan, (where it just released this weekend,) says that this game is a must own for platforming fans. Bringing back old and new copy abilities alike, with upgraded stage design thanks to foreground and background portions of each level, the long awaited debut of the pink puff ball on the 3DS seems like it will be worth the wait. Plus, the bonus “Kirby Fighter” mode seems like an interesting use of multiplayer, pitting Kirby against Kirby in a fight for copy ability superiority. Keep an eye out as details emerge for this title.

Soul Sacrifice Delta

As one of the better Vita exclusive games last year, it’s no surprise that Soul Sacrifice is getting a follow up with Delta. From the mind of Keiji Inafune, the father of Megaman, this “kind of, but not really” Monster Hunter clone will once again pit sorcerers against various monsters told through the journals of sorcerers of the past, but this time, players will be able to reject the gods by choosing neutral options rather than be forced to sacrifice or save fallen enemies. With a March 2014 release date in Japan, look for it to hit stateside later in the year.

Of course, there are numerous games slated for 2014 that weren’t listed here, but that’s just a testament to how great of a year this is looking to be for gamers across all platforms. Is there a game here that you think isn’t worth mentioning? How about a favorite upcoming title that we missed? Let us know below and let us know what you’re looking forward to in this upcoming year of gaming!