Monday, March 12, 2012

Mass Effect 3: BioWare Shits on It's Fans

As many gamers have come to find out, the final installment of the beloved Mass Effect series was nothing more than a let down. Instead of the victorious ending they wanted for the character that they had spent countless hours emotionally developing, they were given something that resembled The Matrix franchise. You know, when a story gets so big, with so many different outcomes possible that they just decided to weakly and sloppy think of a conclusion...leaving plot holes?

Unfortunately I was one of those gamers who had become quite attached to the series. When I played the first one, it was something new and I loved it. I loved how I had a choice in what my character did. I had played RPGs before but there was something new about the Mass Effect series I liked. Right up until the end credits which featured the song "M4" by Faunts. I replayed over and over and thanks to it I actually quit smoking...briefly.

The way it ended we all knew that there was going to be a Mass Effect 2 by the way the first one ended. When the second one was announced I was ecstatic. I kept my fingers crossed hoping that they wouldn't butcher the series. Looking back, if they were going to screw things up in one of the games it might as well have been the second one. It's what they did with Dragon Age. However, I was relieved to see that I enjoyed the second one more than the first. I saw hope for the third to live up to the other twos expectations. I was wrong.

From the starting point, the game really didn't have a solid beginning. The first two had beginnings that drew you in. Even the simpleness of the first one. This one was more cut scene than it was ask questions or make decisions. However, I overlooked that because it's the last installment of the series. On a good note, I will say that the gameplay was a lot smoother than the previous titles.

Now onto the ending: SPOILERS

I read somewhere that there were sixteen (16) different endings that could be had. However, I have yet to see one after searching around on Youtube for most of my morning. One ending is you end up controlling the Reapers, however you give up your life to do it and the Mass Relays get destroyed in the process. Another where you apparently hurl yourself off the edge of the citadel and into the burning bright of the crucible, which seems to do the same thing the last one does. Then there is another where you blow up the system, destroy all synthetics and technologies putting every species back in the dark ages AND killing the Geth, Quarians, and Volus and whatever other species depends on environmental suits.

Now one question was brought up on one of the videos. In the second game there was a DLC called "The Arrival" where you must destroy one of the mass relays to ensure that the Reapers do not arrive in the system and wipe out all galactic life. Doing so, destroys the entire star system and all 300,000 colonists living there. So when these mass relays are destroyed, wouldn't it do the same thing? You would think! Science doesn't change just because you want to do a terrible job writing it.

Who created the catalyst? We know the catalyst created the Reapers but is the catalyst just some ghost boy that lives on the citadel? For a series that didn't go too far into the paranormal...what the hell? Weird.

What about all those left behind. All your team mates, we only see three get off the crashed Normandy. It would be nice to see how your widowed love is doing, if they survived the fight. It would have been nice to see Shepherd embrace their love in the end or something romantic and poetic.

The Normandy crashes on some remote planet that seems to be void of other humans and life, with not technology and no way to send for help. Just three people. I don't know how I feel about this. It's just downright ridiculous. Even if they could send for help, all the ships are rendered useless. Which brings me to the next issue. There were a lot of people in ships above earth's atmosphere. So, they're trapped now right? If you chose that the Reapers must die and all technology in the galaxy has been wiped out.

I've been writing now for a good solid thirty minutes and I'm sure I could go on. But, I've been starring at glowing screens for the past three days and need a good solid break. In conclusion, I would have to say that this was one of the most disappointing endings I've ever seen. For those that don't play video games: take Star Wars, the first three films for the seventies. Now, add the prequels.

PS BioWare, now would be a good time to get all your people together and start making up new endings as a DLC...would really recommend it.

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Neil Gaiman: An Author

I was new to the author when the book "Neverwhere" caught my attention. I, like any lover of books, read the synopsis first which was vague enough to peak my interest. I bought the book at the bookstore where I work, to get the discount of course, and proceeded home after my shift to begin reading. Thus began my first experience with Neil Gaiman.

I was drawn in after the first chapter, and was relieved the the chapters where longer than five pages. It helped feel like I was actually taking chunks out of the book when I would reach the next chapter, stick in my bookmark, and wait for the next session. However, the synopsis could not have prepared me for the roller coaster of a journey of shifting reality that this book was going to take me on. I expected weird. I love the absurd. I thought creativity in modern literature had been dead for some time now and that we were stuck with the cheap thrills and tear antics of such authors as Nicholas Sparks and Jodi Piccoult.

"Neverwhere" was a modern dark fairy tale that would crave any goth-geek's desire. By the time I had reached the end, I wanted more Gaiman. It was now evident to me that, after having made it through the journey of "Neverwhere" with my life, it sucked me in that much, Gaiman was not afraid to push the limits of his worlds. The best way I could describe "Neverwhere" is by saying that it's like an acid trip while sitting in a pile of filth in the sewers of London. It was beautiful.

It was at this point that I purchased the Kobo touch e-reader and proceeded to purchase "Stardust" by Gaiman. I was almost like taking a breath of fresh air. Again, a modern fairy tale that was both beautifully written and well composed. Unlike "Neverwhere," "Stardust" is less of an acid trip, for this world is set in an already fantastical world. It rivals right along with the stories of knights and dragons. It was another book that just breezed on by.

So to wrap up this ramble of a blog, I think it necessary to say, that if you haven't read his works and are looking for a good read, then pick up a Gaiman book and revive your imagination. Seriously, it's rejuvenating.

Saturday, June 11, 2011

Book Review: Veronica Roth's "Divergent"

I am a huge fan of dystopian fiction, so I am probably about to give a bias review on this title. However, my love and passion for the genre could make me more picky and critical of it just as much. Regardless I will press on and take from it what you will.

It seems that dystopian fiction is slowly turning into the new vampire with Young Adult fiction, with such titles as "The Hunger Games" (which I have yet to read), "Matched," and now "Divergent" by Veronica Roth.

I had just finished reading Condie's "Matched" when I had discovered Roth's "Divergent," which was recommended to me by a co-worker at the bookstore at which I work. Reading a few chapters in I was disappointed at first. It seemed to be a knock off of "Matched." Opening up with a ceremony and the similar dilemma of choice being granted to the protagonist. However, where "Matched" pursues more emotional boy drama, "Divergent" takes a more tough as nails approach to dystopian fiction. Imagine the part of Orwell's "1984" when Wisnton is taken to the Ministry of Love...but, the whole book.

There is murder, fighting, action and of course the right amount of drama. There are parts where it drags towards the middle, but in my opinion that just makes you lower your guard for the grand conclusion to book one of a trilogy. Once I was about 80% though the book, I found multiple emotions being aroused at once. I felt hate, rage, and sadness in the same moments. It was brutal. I felt like I had just come from a rejuvenating work out at the gym after finishing the book. My brain felt fresh and new, like I had just woke up well rested and ready for the day.

This book is a must read, it's Young Adult book so the print is big and it's just dense enough to get the juices in your head flowing without giving you a headache. It's one that you could wake up on your day off and say, "I want to read a whole book today" and do it. So do it.

WARNING: After reading the book, DO NOT read the first sentence of the acknowledgments. It almost ruined the whole book for me.

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Nine Inch Nails + Facebook

On July 1st 2010, Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails announced on the official website for the band, that he was taking on scoring the upcoming film "The Social Network," about the creator of Facebook. I found this to be a shocker. Reznor has stated on several occasions that it was his dream to compose the score of a film however, he would only do it if his music's subject matter and the film's content would truly artistcally benifit each other.

Reznor states in the announcement that at first he was reluctant to do the project, however after reading the script decided that it was something he wanted to be a part of. Personally, I am not a fan of the idea of this movie. I do use facebook on a regular basis but the fact that they have decided to make a film about it's creator is a bit much for me. On top of that, to find out that your favorite musical artist, who has given you immense influence over the years, signs on to compose the score of this film you loathe is a big slap in the face. However, now I have to see the film keeping my fingers crossed that Reznor hasn't sold his soul.

Reznor was not alone on the project. He has teamed up again with Atticus Ross, composer of the score for the film "The Book of Eli," who he worked with during his Nine Inch Nails project "Ghosts I-IV" and currently with his side project "How to Destroy Angels." Both know what they're doing when it comes to the music industry and I am sure they have done a fine job, however skeptical I may be about the film.

I look forward to seeing the film and either loving or hating it. Reznor claims that the film, "is really fucking good. And dark!" But is it NIN worthy?

Friday, October 23, 2009

Law Abiding Citizen Film Review

Another late review for a film that has been out for about a week, and it just so happens to be another Gerard Butler film. This time I was able to enjoy the film in a decent cinema, one that did not involve a waiter and a pub. Nope for this film I went to the Cinemagic in Hooksett NH.

The first feelings I had about the film when walking into auditorium one was "this movie must suck!" due to the fact that the auditorium was one of the smallest in the cinema. After finding my seat and drinking half of my large Coca-Cola the previews began. I knew I was in for one hell of a ride just by the trailers before the feature. I was graced with the preview of the upcoming horror film The Crazies which I presume is a remake that I know very little about but I am hooked to learn more just from the trailer.

Moving beyond the digression and onto the main event, the film was entertaining. I was not, however, on the edge of my seat. I had seen one too many Quentin Tarantino films to be shocked by brutal torture, violence and exploding heads. Thanks to the brilliant Tarantino I am cursed with being the only one in the audience laughing. While I am on this digression, I think I will go ahead and say that if you are a Tarantino fan go see this movie if you have not already.

The movie is almost predictable, however it stumps you just when you think you have figured it out. Gerard Butler displays his character very well. A man who has lost everything and never got justice, his emotions and empathy are dead and dumped in a dumpster. Butler shows us just how evil any human can be, but also how human it is to be inhumane. Although the character has lost his sense of reason and is definitly the antagonist, you are still cheering for him.

Aside from Butler, his co-star Jamie Foxx excells. His character is not likable. He is only thinking about one person and one person alone, himself. Foxx does his job with great integrity and emotionality. Like a child being awoken to the real and cruel world.

The film is as stated in several reviews, fast paste. The beginning hits you hard like a baseball bat to the face. The stage is set, then the chaos consumes the whole thing and closes with a bang.

Enough with praising the film, it is time for me to point out what I did not enjoy. The ending was the only real pain that had to be endured. I do not plan on giving it away, in case you happen to be reading this before ever seeing the film, do not worry. The ending was blatant hollywood fiction. All realism left the second the end began. It carried out the emotionality of the film and brought it to a close, but it was very unsatisfying.

All in all the film was great. I recommend it. Performances were fantastic, script was decent and the suspense was vivid.

Friday, October 2, 2009

A Nightmare On Elm Street Preview

When I first learned that there was going to be a remake of A Nightmare On Elm Street, my ultimately favorite 80's horror flick, I had mixed feelings. The only real thought that was traveling through my head was "if Robert Englund does not reprise his role as the ultimate villain Freddy Kruger I am not giving a rat's ass about this film." However doing further studies I learned as to who was going to take on the role.

Jackie Earle Haley is nothing more than an ingenious choice of an actor for this role. After watching him perform as Rorschach in the adaptation of Alan Moore's "Watchmen" my faith in the remake had been brought from neutral to ecstatic. There was no doubt in my head that a brilliant actor such as Haley could only better one of the best and classic horror villains to date. (But don't get me wrong Robert Englund is forever the best Freddy Kruger).

When I went to sign onto my neglected myspace page, I noticed a very large and cool looking link that lead to the new teaser trailer for the upcoming remake. Naturally I had to click on it. After waiting for a good fifteen minutes for the myspace player to buffer the two minute video, I was able to watch the trailer without interruption except for perhaps squeaking like a school girl in excitement.

All in all I was blown away by the trailer. I can't really say much about what is good and what is bad about this film yet on account not a lot of facts where given. It looks like they may have taken some liberties with the Kruger background. Yes he was killed by angry parents in a factory. Yes he was burned to death. However, from what is shown it looks like Kruger may have been a wrongfully accused child murderer unlike in the original when he was a blatant child murderer. This would make more sense for a spirit to come back and seek revenge like Freddy does. If he was evil and then killed things would work out and he'd probably just be gone, but with if he was wrongfully punished he has a reason to stay. However, I cannot say for sure becaus the trailer was only two minutes. I do think it would be pretty neat to see an innocent Freddy take revenge than the usual guilty Freddy.

From what I have seen in the trailer it also looks like they may have included several scenes and situations from several of the other old films rather than just the original one. Which is good becuase some of the best deaths were in the other ones. Let's just hope they keep Johnny Depps classic scene of getting swallowed by the bed! The idea that they'll be combining films is good in my opinion becuase then we won't have to put up with terrible remake sequels and can keep A Nightmare on Elm Street just one good solid horror flick.

I look forward to seeing this in the cinema and can't wait for it's release. It is set to release April 30th of next year. Do expect a full review when that time comes.

-Dalton

Thursday, September 17, 2009

...And Here We Remain (A Wave Goodbye to Nine Inch Nails)

A new blog post on the Nine Inch Nails Myspace page announced that they have posted more photos from a few of their final shows for the Wave Goodbye tour. For many, Nine Inch Nails has been the band that has pulled them out of Hell, slapped them across the face and got them back on track. Reznor's deep and personal lyrics have made some of their loneliest times not as desolate as they seemed.

It was years ago when I had a crush on a girl whose favorite band was Nine Inch Nails. I borrowed my friends NIN collection to burn and study so that I may look more appealing in my crush's eyes. I was not impressed. I wanted more simplistic rock music like the Sex Pistols or the Clash and not these extremely complex, highly disastrous, heavily distorted, introspective masterpieces. After my inevitable rejection from the girl who was four years older than me, I found myself in a state of depression and it was here in this dark place where my solitude was broken by the emotive and very personal records of Nine Inch Nails.

Nine Inch Nails has always been a one man operated machine. Michael Trent Reznor has been portrayed by many fans as "a savior of rock music," or "prince of pain," or "the Antichrist," a bad influence, or a genius. When growing up, Reznor studied classical piano and, as stated by his grandfather in an interview, was a wiz. After several occurrences in his late teens with joining a few electronic bands in the 80's such as Option 30. Reznor idolized artists such as Depeche Mode, Gary Numan, and Ministry. Eventually Reznor was able to produce his debut Nine Inch Nails album "Pretty Hate Machine" in 1989, which immediately went Gold and later went platinum (meaning it sold 1,000,000+ copies worldwide).

All of Nine Inch Nails releases have been a success. Due to it's constantly growing fan base, Nine Inch Nails has done nothing but impress fans with every new release. In 1992, breaking free from TVT Records and joining with Interscope, NIN released the EP "Broken" along with the single "Wish" which went on to win a Grammy for best metal performance. The 1994 album "The Downward Spiral" has been deemed the best Nine Inch Nails record going quadruple platinum (4,000,000 copies sold) being the Nine Inch Nails album that put Reznor on the map. It has been normal for Nine Inch Nails to release albums four years apart. Reznor always challenged himself when it came to composing new music. He has stated that he has a, "Okay, that one was good, now let's make a better one," attitude. Constantly manipulating computers, synthesizers and guitars to change their sounds, Nine Inch Nails' creates new sounds that are a breath of fresh air from the constant chatter over played on the radio

Along with Nine Inch Nails' unique sound, the soulful lyrics have also made them known. Why do so many like Nine Inch Nails? Perhaps it's because Reznor puts himself on the same level. On top of all the chaos, he is still just as human as any of us. He is there with us when we're down, pissed off, or feel like dancing.

Along with being a hit and something new in the record stores. Nine Inch Nails brought a new uniqueness to the stage. Trent would scream, swear at the crowd, destroy equipment, flaunt himself, making the show just as unpleasant as the music. The live act was something new and different from the albums. More raw, more aggressive and more powerfully emotive. There was a sense of welcome and a sense of discomfort as an audience member.

Nine Inch Nails has been one of those bands that never gave a shit about what people thought, and Trent always did what he damn well pleased. In 2004 when the album With Teeth was released, along with their hit single "The Hand That Feeds," NIN was asked by MTV to edit out their anti-Bush administration lyrics in order to perform on the channel. Where many would have obliged, Nine Inch Nails refused and walked away the bigger person.

Nine Inch Nails made the turn from strong emotional music to powerful politically charged compositions. Year Zero followed close in the footsteps of 1994's The Downward Spiral as one of NIN's best recorded albums, depicting a dystopian future if things did not straighten out by 2022. Again using new and improved tools and whatever could make a noise, Year Zero was possibly more noisy and chaotic than The Downward Spiral.

And now after years of abuse, noise, chaos and the embodiment of the darkest parts of the human mind, we must say goodbye. We say goodbye to one of the most brilliant minds in the modern arts. Hats off to Nine Inch Nails, best of luck in future endeavors Trent, your music will be missed. And thanks.

-Dalton