It usually takes two or three years before new consoles hit their stride with a bevy of top AAA rated games. In that time, developers are learning the systems, testing out new ways of doing things and experimenting with gameplay ideas.
And with the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and Nintendo Wii reaching that point, 2009 should be an even better time for games than last year. But with all the looking forward, it's the old school-style titles that pique my interest.
And no other game has me as excited as one of the blue bloods of gaming — the "Street Fighter" series. On Feb. 17, the franchise's first sequel in a decade will be released. "Street Fighter IV" brings the popular fighting game back to its roots with a modern twist of polygonal graphics.
Famous fighters such as Ryu, Ken and Chun Li now have a look that rivals Pixar characters. On top of that, MadCatz is also releasing a set of official arcade sticks. The whole experience will take players back to the arcade. Now, how old school is that?
Also anticipated:
Source: Inside Bay Area"Killzone 2": The shooter that generated an apocalyptic amount of hype based on its trailer will also be released in February. Now players can see if it lives up to those first impressions. Scheduled for release Feb. 27. "MadWorld": Platinum Games offers something rare on the Wii — a mature title.
With an art style that reminds me of Frank Miller's stuff, I'm
optimistic with this beat-'em-up. Spring 2009."God of War III": This looks to be the finale to one of the best series of the decade. I'm looking forward to seeing what Kratos' true fate is.