Happy Birthday Little Sister.
29 Aug 05

It's a linking Monday. I've been doing some work behind the scenes on the site. Since no one appreciates those kind of changes unless it significantly improves their experience (and sometimes if it does), it doesn't let me off the hook for an update. Fortunately, there are a lot of interesting things going on on the web, so I can just play the part of the tour guide.

Before I start, I just want to say our thoughts and prayers go out to those who are suffering from the effects of Nature's fury in the form of Hurricane Katrina. If anyone wants to help, the Red Cross, is looking for donations and volunteers. You can get more information Here.

Since I mentioned PAX last week, let's start there. Gamespot has write ups on attendance and the panel discussions. I particularly liked the controversy panel recommending gamers buy more games. That's controversy for you.

Joystiq has an interesting article on expensive gaming launches. They've also included a table of some console launch prices. Check it out Here.

1UP.com takes on the interesting topic of what's wrong with Halo 2. It certainly raises some interesting design questions. Speaking of design, Gamasutra has a feature up on a Player's Bill of Rights. I liked the statement, "The player's right to save and quit is absolute, and it trumps your right to make the game harder by not letting him do so, and any other excuse you may have. No, I don't care what you think. Shut up and do it." Of course, the author is talking to game designers.

I almost forgot, since we're unlikely to be giving away any XBox 360's, you might want to check out Mountain Dew's contest, Every 10 Minutes.

Finally, don't forget to check out the forum. In addition to the work on the casual guide to Battlefield 2, Torolf has started work on a Space Rangers 2 after action report. Keep an eye on it Here. I was thinking that Space Rangers 2 might make a nice contest prize. Your input is appreciated.

This week's game probably needs an introduction. Not everyone has heard of Hammer and Sickle (official site) from Nival Interactive. It's the sequel to Silent Storm. For some, that's enough information right there. For everyone else, it's a turn based tactical combat RPG. You play a Soviet agent trapped behind enemy lines in the British/American sector of Germany in 1949. While there you uncover a plot that could trigger a new World War, this time with nuclear consequences. Since this is an espionage game, you'll have more non combat options than in Silent Storm. The developers are also promising lasting consequences to you actions that will persist throughout the story arc. Look for Hammer and Sickle in the last quarter of the year.

Jason