Friday, August 30, 2013

Play-Select Episode 38 - Castlevania Collection, Attack on Titan, GTA 5 & The Witcher 3!






We're back ! Find out which Game of Thrones actor will be included in Witcher 3, how Attack on Titan will smash its way into video games and what the Castlevania Lord of Shadows Collection is all about ! 

- COUPON CODE -
Please go to http://www.playasia.tv or directly to http://par.bz/2w1

-GAMES-
Castlevania Lord of Shadows Collection: http://par.bz/2vl
Grand Theft Auto 5 (Special Collection): http://par.bz/2vn
Metal Gear Solid: The Legacy Collection: http://par.bz/2vr
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt: http://par.bz/2vp
Dragon's Crown PS3: http://par.bz/2vt VITA: http://par.bz/2vv

- CREW -
Host: Gold Mountain
Prize Girl: Tiffany Tai
Sidekick: Jay Li
Intro Sequence: Mathew Blaize
Edited by Arne Venema & Ethan Lau
Directed, Shot and Music by Arne Venema

Thursday, August 29, 2013

Stripping in Akihabara


So I was writing the Pre-Order News today for Play-Asia.com's newsletter and came across this gem. In short, it's the sequel to Akiba's Trip aka akibaSTRIP. Chyotto hentai dana~


"Akihabara, famous for otaku culture, maid cafes and, uh, blood sucking demons? Blood sucking demons who can only be killed by stripping them? Sounds just like Akihabara!

That's right - return to the streets of this famous district as an otaku caught up in a bizarre conspiracy wherein the only option is to beat up demons, strip them naked, expose them to the sun and nervously laugh as their naked demon corpse melts away.

Sequel to the original Akiba's Trip, this Akiba's Trip 2 features over 130 real world shops and faithfully recreates Akihabara as the stage for stripping. Introducing an AI controlled partner and the new UNISON STRIP SYSTEM, Akiba's Trip 2 sounds awesome!" 

UNISON STRIP SYSTEM = BEST GAMEPLAY MECHANIC '13

November 7th! I'm ready to do this! Here is the official Japanese website!

GTA V: PC Release Predictions

FALSE FLAGS: MISLEADING AND RECANTED INFORMATION


The PC community has been stuck in limbo when it comes to whether or not Grand Theft Auto will be released. As the resident PlayAsiaTV PC-lover I figured I'd lend my thoughts and perhaps quell some of the remaining Rockstar/Red Dead Redemption post-traumatic stress disorder that is running rampant in the PC community as of late.

Nvidia's announcement has been the only information that has been 'officially' released, and although they denied the information at a later stage - it is safe to say the 'announcement' was based on some sort of information. That information may have been a false-flag or a case of optimism, but it could have just as easily been an industry tip (i.e. porting is 'planned') that was confidential.

'Gamers are preparing their systems for a strong roster of games coming this fall, including blockbuster franchises such as Call of Duty: Ghosts, Grand Theft Auto V and Assassin's Creed IV.'
- Chris Evenden, Nvidia Senior Director of Investor Relations

This quote, given in the context of the evolving PC market, definitely gives the impression that Nvidia know SOMETHING. That something could be Nvidia's involvement, as a major hardware manufacturer, in the porting of the title. Of course, along with all other 'false information' this quote has been clarified and PR'ed to hell an back - so we are stuck speculating. And speculate I shall.

NEXT GENERATION CONSOLES: x86, Hardware, and PC Ports


One of the announcements that really got me pumped up as a PC gamer was the new x86 chips used in the Xbox One and PS4. This might seem like an odd favorite to have considering the plethora of crazy announcements that have come out but it is super important for GTA V and PC gaming in general: ports, ports, and more ports. A large portion of the biggest AAA titles are ported to PC, and anything that streamlines that process is perfect for me.

With all the changes, developers will be able to work with familiar hardware which will make it significantly easier to port titles to and from systems. Not to mention hardware upgrades in next generation consoles opening up even more avenues for developers to create higher quality ports to PC. 

This is where my prediction for the GTA V PC release finally kicks in. After GTA V is released, or at least the final version is ship-ready for PS4/XONE, the game will be substantially easier to port over to PC. There is no reason for the developer, from an efficiency point of view, to port to PC prior to that point. Not to mention the extended hype the title can generate by being ambiguous. By announcing a date for PC, Rockstar can hurt their console sales - especially for consumers that have multiple platforms. The quote we, and many other inquiring minds, were given is "we are focusing on consoles right now" - a clever piece of half-information. 
Just a 'typo' or a marketing ploy?

Let's keep this all in perspective: GTA V for PS4 and XONE are receiving the exact same treatment (false flags, covering up their tracks) from Rockstar. They are simply covering their asses, and can we blame them? Sure it can be frustrating not knowing, but the gaming community can definitely throw a fit if a release date is pushed back - and Rockstar not having knowledge of the future need to keep this in mind. 

But you came here for my predictions. The PS4 is scheduled for release on November 15th, the XONE should follow soon after - around late November. If we allow time for GTA V to be released shortly thereafter, and then the time it takes to port the title - we are looking at a release date of February/March for PC. Keep in mind that it took 8 months for GTA IV to come to PC, and most Rockstar games take about 200 days from console to PC release. Of course this is just an educated guess and we might get RDR'ed again. But I'm keeping optimistic.



Wednesday, August 28, 2013

2 Pics for 2D.



Ok I lied, here is another pic:


So uh... Ya'll getting one?

Straight from the GTA V Classroom Presser


An undisclosed location, a last minute notice - we had so much anticipation before going into the recent GTA V Press Conference HK edition.

Like all major releases, the rules were all strictly hush-hush; no filming, no photos, and no interviews - regardless, I'm gonna share all the facts I got from this classroom presser.

So we are sitting in front of a 52 inch TV, with all of Hong Kong's gamer press in attendance, and the presentation starts. This will be the first time for any of us there to see the game in person and in action.  

Must be nice, bro.
WHAT WE KNOW SO FAR:

1) GTA V > GTA SA + GTA 4 + RDR

Fish that move out of your way on current gen!
From what we heard, the world of GTA V is 3.5 times bigger than the world of Red Dead Redemption. Now if you remember this wonderful game and how much time was spent on horseback travelling and you enjoyed this sense of space, GTA V will blow your mind caskets. If we include the FULLY EXPLORABLE OCEAN FLOOR, then you're looking at a game world that's approximately 5 times bigger than RDR. Let me repeat: 
5 TIMES BIGGER THAN RDR. 

The world itself is also fully open from the get go, and it is the cumulation of two main hubs: Los Santos and the countryside of Blaine County. These two places are lush with area specific wildlife - a first for the GTA series, and are complete with 24 hour day/night cycles and a realistic weather systems. Hail yeah~

Where the hell am I supposed to go now? Oh yeah. FREAKING EVERYWHERE.
2) Hot Protagonist Switching Action

So by now I'm assuming you've been bombarded with the whole 3 character switching deal, and you've probably seen it in a trailer video. You're body says it's ready, but it's an instinct and you don't know what to really expect. So I'mma prime your body.

Off Mission:

It was interesting though was to discover that while you are playing as one character, whenever you decide to change characters, it is guaranteed that the character you are switching to will be doing something interesting - no spoilers, but buzzword of that day was dynamic and realtime

Ok, that's too cryptic - let's just say that when you decide to switch from one character to the next, you will never see them with one hand tucked in the crotch Al Bundy style passed out with cheetos on their chest - well, maybe, but we weren't privy to this tidbit of programming. Instead, you will - in realtime - find your characters doing something dynamic like rolling down the street, smoking indo, sippin on gin and juice - laid back.

When is someone gonna switch to me? :(
On Mission:

On mission means that you'll be taking part in something that progresses the plot, and this may involve just one protagonist, a combo of two, or all of them together. In order to progress the story line, it is required that you do indeed switch to unlock the missions. The character switching mechanic still applies though, and here it really shines. As each character has their own specific strengths, jumping in and out from each character within a mission opens up replay value, strategy, tactics and the ability to experience the story from multiple points of view without skipping a beat in realtime. It is also interesting to point out that during gunfights where you have more than one lead, if an ally is in danger, you need to switch to them otherwise GAME OVER.

"Um, since we are all here, I switched with you last night when you were with your wife."
Also, speaking of characters and their strengths, there are RPG elements reminiscent of GTA San Andreas, wherein character stats will grow through repeated use. With three leads, this gives you a choice on three template classes; the only difference between characters are their individual "special" skills. Known skills are:
  • Michael - the ability to slow down time during a gunfight.
  • Franklin - the ability to slow down time while driving for complex navigation during high speeds in heavy traffic.
  • Trevor - the ability to be a damage sponge as well as dealing extra melee damage, plus a unique melee attack.

3) GTA V Online

All copies of GTA V come included with GTA V Online, and this unlocks automatically on October 1st. GTA V Online is an entirely separate experience from the traditional multiplayer modes that are already available; it is a means for players to create and customize your own character and pave their own narrative in the world of Los Santos.

An evening with 2 friends escaping from the cops. Too real.
Released facts about the GTA V Online are:
  • 16 player lobby in which 15 of your friends can participate in missions, explore the world, plan heists, and generally cause havoc.
  • You can choose your custom character at anytime from the character switch selector; this is like the cell phone in GTA 4.
  • Your crew from Max Payne 3 can be imported to GTA V Online.
  • At launch there will be over 700 missions and content; expect this to be constantly growing and developed via Rockstar and the Community.
  • Bounties can be put on other players (ie major trolling potential).
  • With the use of smart phones, you or other players can voyeuristically watch what everyone is up to on the comfort of your virtual couch.
  • Carrying too much money on your person after a heist is a potential danger, as other characters can recognise this and straight jack you.
  • A "Creator" tool set will be released for world creation.
  • Voice broadcast is now a possibility; "COME AT ME BRO" will be making a resurgence as a relevant meme.
Personally, I think the voice aspect of GTA V Online is really interesting. The fact that you can run up to someone, shout "EVERYBODY BE COOL, THIS IS A ROBBERY" or whatever nonsense you wish really makes this interesting. What's more, depending on certain phrases, NPCs will react with the appropriate reaction - this game is really dynamic!

4) Extra Facts
Franklin's top hair patch has more hair textures than all the strippers combined.
  • Michael is a huge crime movie otaku, so movie fans may recognise certain scenes during heist missions.
  • There is now ambient background music in addition to any songs from the radio stations.
  • Music is now adaptive and reactive - this is a first for any GTA and it is very similar to how Red Dead Redemption's music and sound worked. 
  • Combat has been totally refined with attention to fan input.
  • The character Franklin alone has more textures than the entire pedestrian population of GTA V combined.
  • There is no more annoying ass family member calling you up during missions; GTA Clingy Friend simulation mode has been completely removed.
So from what we saw that day, this game is looking pretty damn sharp. According to Rockstar, GTA V represents the culmination of all specialized talents from all their studios. Taking in every aspect that was positive from their previous games, creating a world of such a scale and adding a three character narrative is definitely making this game as interesting as it's been hyped to be. 


Thursday, August 22, 2013

Castlevania: Lords of Shadow (The Collection) 10% Off Coupon Code! WAHPASH!



Select Play-Select Viewers, as promised, here's the code!

The Promo code is BELMONT1 - just put this in the additional options tab during checkout and you're good to go.

Share the word, spread the love, and kill some ancient foes. Good times~

Peace Outside!

Terms and Conditions:
1) This code can only be used for "Castlevania: Lords of Shadow (The Collection)" on PS3/XBOX360 
2) This code cannot be used for any other product on Play-Asia.com
3) This coupon expires on the 30th of October, 2013

Tuesday, August 20, 2013

Hyper Genki Episode 2 - OUT NOW!!

Hyper Genki, the show all about Japanese pop culture, hits PlayAsiaTV's YouTube for a second episode! This week's host, Mishy Lee, will give you the rundown on anime, toys, ridiculous commercials, and trends!

Join Mishy as she fills us in on the new Patlabor live-action movie (using life-size robots!), Cowboy Bebop blueray releases, crazy commercials which can only be described as oompa-loompas tripping on acid, and high-quality figures of Sakuyu and Nefertari Vivi! Tune in next week for Episode 3, hosted by Misa!

If you want to see more of Mishy and PlayAsiaTV - subscribe!

Saints Row 4 Pre-emptive Gold's Choice?

Just played some Saints Row 4 :)

No spoilers, so what I can say is that:

1) Nut punching is back with an aplomb. I guess it needed to be more aggressive as I'm assuming our new alien foes have more than the required 2.

2) You are the President of the World and you are clocking your citizens in the bun zhao.

3) I made the most hideous character ever. Again. And I love her 100% sex appeal.

So just a mini one here, but trust me on this; if you enjoyed SR3, play it! I WUB SR4 (sorry).

Shout outs to Namco Bandai, Volition, and Deep Silver!

Peace Outside! Add me on Coop! GoldMTN!

"Mystery Show" Leaked Image



Riddle me this: What is Classic yet will be new on PlayAsiaTV ?!?

Play-Select Episode 37: Saints Row 4, GTA 5 & J Stars Victory VS




We're back after flying around the planet! We got GTA from America, J Stars Victory VS from Japan, a hot prize girl, Jay returns and even more games! YES!!!

GAMES
GTA V - http://par.bz/2sh
Saints Row 4 - http://par.bz/2sj
J Stars Victory Vs - http://par.bz/2sl
Devil Survivor 2 Break Record - http://par.bz/2sn
The Last of Us - http://par.bz/2sp
Metal Gear Solid Legacy Collection - http://par.bz/2sr

CREW
Host: Gold Mountain
Sidekick: Jay Li
Prize Girl: Lovecrazy Rachel
Directed/Shot/Edited by Arne Venema
Additional Graphics: Ethan Lau
Intro Sequence: Mathew Blaize

Thursday, August 15, 2013

Hyper Genki Episode 2 Promo #2



Another picture from our second Hyper Genki Host: Mishy Lee! Episode out next week!

Silent Hill Cosplayer now, show host next week !

Nerd By Day, Even Bigger Nerd At Night:

Some of ya'll been asking what I do when i'm not gaming 24/7:




OK NOW IT'S TIME TO POWER LEVEL AMAZONS IN DRAGON'S CROWN

Nobou Uematsu and Hip Hop

So about a week ago, I had the chance to finally meet one of my musical mentors. If you aren't aware, Uematsu-San has been responsible for almost all the music for the venerable Final Fantasy series from SquareEnix - anyway, he had a concert in town and I HAD TO SEE IT.

And while the concert probably the best musical experience I've been to, nothing beats this:


That's right my select Play-Select viewers - an original signed copy - it's like his first album ever!

Anyway, back to the topic at hand. With Uematsu-san's works, it always blew me away to know that he had never classically trained himself with music - in every which way, he is a child prodigy. 

Now this makes his music even more interesting, especially for players - we go though stages grinding away listening to the same tunes and it never gets stale. And that being said, and long story short, his music has inspired me so much with Hip Hop beat making; I mean some of that ish just repeats!



Tuesday, August 13, 2013

Fun in the Trench



Gold Mountain is hiding...

 

...and reflecting on the Games of War!

Play-Select Special Episode out later this week - straight from the war fields of Russia.

Monday, August 12, 2013

Fun with Guns




Gold Mountain in action!

More tanks, missiles, and guns coming soon - in the next episode of Play-Select!

Tuesday, August 6, 2013

Introducing Hyper Genki with our new host Misa




Hyper Genki is a show about Japanese Popular Culture and follows the Cool, the Crazy and the down right Mad! If you like Japan this show is for you!

Namie Amuro ~ Feel - http://par.bz/2qn
Fire Emblem Awakening Figure ~ Tharja - http://par.bz/2qp

Host: Misa

Directed/Shot/Edited/Music by Arne Venema
Additional Graphics: Foon Wong and Ethan Lau

Thursday, August 1, 2013

Fun with Missiles!



Gold Mountain a lot of new toys and is having a blast!

No pun intended

Stay tuned for the latest installment from Play-Select.

Fun with Tanks


Our team from Play-Select is currently in Minsk (Belarus) to test play Wargaming.net's latest instalments, plus they get to test drive some real tanks... stay tuned for some awesome footage coming soon!