Darksiders was a great introduction for a young developer like Vigil Games. From the outset it was an ambitious title. Pairing a former comic book artist with an experienced rag-tag team of developers was something of a dream catch. Turned down by many a publisher, it took THQ taking a chance on them, and working with Vigil to get Darksiders to a place where it’s potential could shine. Fast forward nearly two years since the first title’s release, and Vigil Games/THQ are ready to release the sequel to Darksiders early next year.

To give you a bit of insight into what Darksiders is about here’s some history. Darksiders is the tale of the four horsemen of the apocalypse. They were to walk the earth ushering in Armageddon. except something/some being has triggered it early. War the first of the horseman is said to be the culprit for delivering an early end. Setting things in motion for an epic undertaking War had to find out why, and what exactly is going on. Battling both demon’s and angels. Darksiders really had a great play style. A mix of Zelda with God of War, and dash of Bayonetta (that one came out around the same time though). Making for an interesting playing game. There were some holes, and Vigil intends to make Darksiders 2 a better title.

Game Informer had the first exclusive on Darksiders 2. Death is now the star of the show, and he’s upset that his brother War is being framed. He doesn’t believe the circumstances are right, and his quest takes place relatively the same time that War’s is going on. The same depth of ability, and weaponry variation will be on deck. The adventure complexion along with mechanics in both gameplay, and approach will be something updated. What needs work  from my observation and play of the first title is the purpose in combat, and adventure. The game had its moments, but for the most part it didn’t make sense for the structure it was aiming for. The game would get linear, and repetitive many times. The game walked a fine line. Hopefully Darksiders 2 really pushes the franchise a bit more. As of now there is very little info on the game, but as soon as there is more we’ll keep you updated.

Darksiders trailer Courtesy of Gameblog

Original Article

Asura’s Wrath is an incredibly different action game that we’ve never experienced before. It’s the game we imagined every Dragon Ball Z fighter could be. It’s the elegance of surreal action that God of War is minus the brutal violence. It is the elegance of design that Bayoneta bears, but the art aesthetic is less nauseating. Asura’s Wrath is a new action game blueprint that should have come from Treasure. Why? Simply because it is different. This generation of gamer that would appreciate what I’m talking to is in the minority. He/She is out matched by the denizens of FPS (First Person Shooters). So for those that are still into action games Asura’s Wrath is a special treat.

Admittedly Asura’s Wrath is an acquired taste. It’s very high fantasy Manga with a strong sci fi bent. How does this all mix? Well eastern developers tend to throw convention out the window. So there’s always this obscure line that they cross. The only time you know it does not work is when the game sucks.  As a game Asura’s Wrath follows suit. Except for the “suck” part. What you will find though is that there is a cohesive story of resurrection & redemption in the plot that the you as the gamer will traverse in. The QTE mechanic is similar in many respects to a Dragon Ball Z title, but not as predictable and hooky. The reason it’s not predictable is that the game is played in cinematic fashion predicated on how the story plays out. So you never know when to play out the QTE. It’s also noticeable that the hand to hand combat is not as robust as I think it could be. My suspicion is that Capcom wanted to keep the controls simple. They are very simple, but dramatic in execution. The enemies are off the wall. You’ll find yourself wondering how in the world am I supposed to fight that? Then you quickly realize that Asura is a fallen Demi God.

The story from the demo is convoluted. You’re given two scenarios to choose from. One in particular takes place on the moon, and you’re fighting what seems to be your former teacher. The fight is just ridiculous. I’m talking out there. What’s cool again is the camera work, and the way you are battling your enemies. The game demo does a bad job of giving you a true feeling for what the game will hold on a level to level basis. What it does do is give you a sense of depth about Asura’s abilities, and the juggernaut bosses you face with him on his journey. My hope is that the game does not come off as a battle bosses because they are the best part of the game. Not a good look if indeed that’s the case.  Asura’s Wrath will already be aimed at gamer’s with a particular taste. That is not a large enough niche for Capcom. Asura’s Wrath is going to have to deliver and surprise big time to be relevant this year,  and as a game that is special for this generation.

Original Article