Third Quarter 2015 E3 2015 We Look at the Big 3’S 4 Inches Blueprints 3 Inches

LittleBigPlanet Top 5 on Sackboy’s adventure in the world of creation is a the strip modern-day masterpiece We rank the top 5 X-Men comic arcs Page 10 Page 23

YEAR 08, NO. 31 WWW.GAMINGINSURRECTION.COM Third Quarter 2015 E3 2015 We look at the Big 3’s 4 inches blueprints 3 inches

4.5 inches for success at gaming’s grand event from the editor sually, I like to let my column, the Cry of Because of the truncated schedule, we’ve made War, do the talking for what I’d like to say a few sacrifices this quarter in terms of the usual U each quarter. However, I made an executive content that we have. It means no Silver Horse decision to use this space from now on to reach out Awards this year and we cut a few usual suspects to you, the reader. this quarter such as the Retro Game Corner. Don’t If you’ll remember, I’ve previously said how things worry, it will be back next quarter! It’s just that we would be changing at Gaming Insurrection in the didn’t have the time to properly produce something upcoming quarters and possibly years to come. in the realm of awesome as we usually do. That First, I’d like to say thank you to those of you who does not happen often, I assure you! stick with us every quarter. The past two years have Third and finally, we’re extremely happy to intro- been pretty rough on us, but we have quite a few duce an addition to the crew: Earl Bell. Earl is pas- supporters who faithfully read each issue as they sionate about quite a few things in the pop culture are delivered online. sphere and he’s a great friend as well. We’re more And for those of you who are new to GI, thank than happy to have him join us and help continue you, too! I personally appreciate that you’ve taken GI’s plan to make things great. Please welcome him the time to read what we’re passionate about: Video as we have. games. We have our opinions, and though we know Enjoy the issue. not everyone agrees with them 100 percent of the time, we’re ever grateful that someone is taking the time to find out what they are. Lyndsey Hicks, editor-in-chief Second, we are hoping to get back on track with our production schedule this quarter and thereafter. GAMING INSURRECTION Editor-in-Chief Lyndsey Hicks Facebook Facebook.com/ Editor-at-Large GamingInsurrection Brandon Beatty

Contributing Editor YouTube Earl Bell User: GamingInsurrection

Website Twitter www.gaminginsurrection.com @GamingInsurrect

LYNDSEY HICKS BRANDON BEATTY EARL BELL GI REVIEW POLICY editor-in-chief editor-at-large contributing editor Scale is from 1 to 5 as follows: LYNDSEY HICKS is co-founder BRANDON BEATTY is EARL BELL is 1 — Broken. Absolutely do not play this game. A broken mess staff and editor-in-chief of GI. She enjoys editor-at-large for GI. Brandon contributing editor for GI. Earl is from start to finish. Game is unplayable and irredeemable in all areas. watching various anime with her writes reviews when the mood the quintessential handy man: significant other, editing any and He produces ads and video when strikes him, produces the quarterly 2 — Substandard. The game isn’t for everyone. Some mechanics everything, picking apart the wild asked and has hidden talents no work; others need work. Overall design is questionable in some areas. world of Pandora within Border- Otaku Corner column for The Strip one’s bothered to ask about. Two lands, devouring anything Harry and buys random jewelry for his of those talents? Cosplay skills 3 — Average and meets expectations. Mechanics work and it’s a decent package overall. It’s playable, and you’ll come back to Potter related and planning random lovely significant other. Brandon and killing you with Power Rangers the game. anime con visits. Lyndsey resides in knowledge and trivia. Earl resides resides in Columbia, S.C. 4 — Above average. Exceeds expectations. Overall, a great game Columbia, S.C. in Columbia, S.C. worth keeping in a gamer’s library. Presentation and mechanics all work as expected and add to or enhance the gaming experience. CONTACT: CONTACT: CONTACT: 5 — Masterpiece. Everyone should play this title at least once to lyndseyh@ brandonb@ editor@ experience what it has to offer. gaminginsurrection.com gaminginsurrection.com gaminginsurrection.com

2 contents 03 editorial

Lyndsey Hicks CRY OF WAR My gaming pile of shame will continue to grow y pile of shame is ter- My pile of shame includes quite a which we’re reviewing this quar- rible. I will freely admit few titles: any of the modern Bat- ter, is one of those. Turn to page that any time someone man titles, God of War, Uncharted, 10 to read my review of the quirky M asks. But what is a pile Red Dead Redemption and probably platforming product. With the of shame, you ask? It’s any modern shooter of the past value of hindsight, I now see and that long list of games that you’ve 10 years not named Borderlands. understand the considerable hype bought and are getting around to I can’t help it: I just don’t have the surrounding the adorable tale of playing but somehow never make time. That’s primarily why GI is Sackboy. Add to that ModNation time to do so. Things come up, a retro publication. I don’t have life gets in the way and you never enough time in the day with work Racers and New Super Mario Bros. seem to find the time to devote to and life happening to sit down and 2. I believe I’m starting to make a trying a game. Worse yet, it also play something new that requires dent in the pile, no matter how applies to those titles that you a large amount of time to invest in small that incursion may be. Prog- know are going to be released in story and development. ress is progress, I always say. a short amount of time but you Even though I lack time and never seem to buy them or actu- sometimes interest in some of the Lyndsey Hicks is editor-in-chief ally attempt to play them. A pile of more modern titles out there, I of Gaming Insurrection. She can be shame is blight upon every gamer’s have managed to knock a few big reached by email at A small subsection of the growing pile of shame. | Photo by Lyndsey Hicks resume. names off the pile. LittleBigPlanet, [email protected]

Musical life among the wild can be interesting Lyndsey Hicks BEAT.TRIP.GAME with Animal Crossing nimal Crossing isn’t K.K. Casbah, one of K.K. Slider’s 5. 6 p.m. — Animal Crossing: necessarily known for its available songs, is a fun track Wild World soundtrack, but it should that reminds of the Middle East, Winding down the day, the 6 p.m. A be. It’s a quirky adventure bazaars and sitars. It fits well with tune of Wild World is an excellent at doing nothing but it a similarly themed home. way to let the day come to an end. happens to have one of the best It’s especially good for the spring soundtracks ever created and that 3. 6 a.m. — Animal Crossing: and summer months. shines through in just about every Wild World game in the series. We have our This is a fun way to start your 6. 8 p.m. — Animal Crossing: favorites for the out and indoors day within the world of Animal Wild World spending when you visit the next- use of piano at the beginning. of the series about life among the Crossing. The upbeat but chill vibe A great tune for outdoor explor- to-the-last upgrade for Tom Nook’s wild. that you get from the tune is a ing, the 8 p.m. song is slow but chain of stores. 9. K.K. Milonga — Animal Cross- good way to get moving. just right for that time of night. It’s ing: New Leaf 1. 1 p.m. — Animal Crossing perfect for almost any time of the 8. 7 p.m. — Animal Crossing: A milonga is music typically Featuring adorable meowing kit- 4. 5 p.m. — Animal Crossing: year. New Leaf found in Argentina and Uruguay ties in the background, the track Wild World Quite possibly, this is my favorite that’s like a tango. The song is very for the 1 p.m. hour is fantastic, A slow-paced tune, the 5 p.m. jam 7. Nookway — Animal Crossing: track of all of the outdoor music thoughtful and serious, and it’s a especially if you’re a fan of felines. is excellent because of its pace. If Wild World that plays throughout the series. great minor key composition for a You can’t help but smile when you you can play at this time and slow Reminding of being in an upscale It’s serious and thought provoking, majority of the song. hear it. things down instead of running boutique, Nookway’s backing track yet it suggests an air of wonder around, you’ll come to appreciate accomplishes its job. You’ll forget while you’re wandering around the Lyndsey Hicks is editor-in-chief of 2. K.K. Casbah how relaxing this tune can be. just how much money you’re really town. This features an excellent Gaming Insurrection E3 2015 The Big 3 came to show off their wares and build a foundation for the upcoming year at the annual gaming convention, but did any company succeed? 4.5 inches

4 inches 3 inches PAGE 6

UPCOMING BIG RELEASES

PAGE 8

PAGE 5 PAGE 7 4 feature what’s coming microsoft

fable legends Exclusives Indie games Microsoft prides itself on the exclusive titles that it Microsoft has long put its foot in the independent developer can bring to counteract the competition. This year, race to have the most non-AAA titles from the best of the rest. there were plenty to whet the appetite if you’re still on Look out for titles such as Ion, Gigantic, Tacoma and Beyond the fence about buying an Xbox One. There was the Eyes. These are the underlying life blood of the Microsoft expe- requisite Halo title (Halo 5: Guardians), which always rience and will add an extra incentive for buying a system. promises to bring the interest level back to a fever pitch in the fall; Forza 6, which is also a required title for any new Microsoft console; and, Gears of War: Ultimate Edition and Gears of War 4, which are the newest additions to the stalwart Xbox stable of shooters. These exclusives are always what you can count on if you need a reason to buy the newest system, but that didn’t stop them from looking gorgeous.

gears 4

Hololens/ Minecraft partnership While this wasn’t necessarily the biggest deal of the show, just what the technology could do and means for Microsoft is a huge deal. Using Minecraft to show off the Hololens, Microsoft and Mojang basically stole the show from the other Microsoft exclusives. There was nothing more impressive than seeing Minecraft literally come to life on a table in front of the audience. forza 6

feature 5 what’s coming sony

Where was the Vita? Games galore hitman Sony went for the gusto with a large lineup. They may not The conference came and went but there was virtually no have had the exclusives like Microsoft, but they certainly had sign of the Vita, Sony’s handheld, this year. The focus enough titles that would necessitate buying a system if you was more on games instead of hardware, but you’d never haven’t already. And, quite a few of the titles, such as Call of have known that Sony has a handheld system in competi- Duty: Black Ops III and Firewatch, were designated as coming tion with Nintendo’s 3DS by the looks of things. There to PS4 first with exclusive content or public betas. was hardly any mention of the system and no mention of game support for it, either.

True rumors Thought you’d never see The Last Guardian again? Swore that Final Fantasy VII would never be remade for modern consoles? Thought Shenmue 3 was never going to be made? Well, you’d have been wrong on all counts, because all three longstanding rumors came true with announcements. The no man’s sky Last Guardian was actually seen as a playable title, Final Fantasy VII Remake was announced and shown to have a fully realized trailer, and Shenmue 3 was announced with a Kickstarter campaign that met its goal of $2 million within nine hours.

street fighter v

6 feature what’s coming nintendo

star fox zero Theme of Software not transformation hardware Nintendo usually has a theme for each E3, and this year was no different as the company went with the Like the other two console makers, Nintendo focused on the idea of transformation. Whether it was in reference software, which is their biggest strength in a lot of ways. A lot to the 30th anniversary of Super Mario Bros.’ release of games were announced, many of which are first-party titles or in reference to their business model changing, focusing on key franchises. Support in the form of Wii U exclu- Nintendo focused on the one thing that has kept the sives and 3DS offerings were pushed to the forefront, while not console maker in the games industry over the years: an many third-party titles were announced. ever-changing plan to stay in the consumer’s mind.

super mario maker

Nintendo World Championships The contest, last held in 1990, saw a fun revival this year, culminating in the finals during this year’s conference. The World Championships finished with a run through Nintendo Treehouse-created stages in Super Mario Maker, a hotly anticipated title for Mario fans. The general consensus was that the Championships should be held annually again because of the general fun and yoshi’s wooly world hype. Also, there are some truly spectacular Mario players in the world that don’t work for Nintendo. feature 7 upcoming big releases

dishonored 2 tom clancy’s the division

batman: arkham knight

doom call of duty: black ops 3

fallout 4

mirror’s edge: catalyst mass effect: andromeda

8 feature GAME OF THE QUARTER

LITTLEBIG PLANET

The adorable and quirky platformer gets everything right in crafting the perfect adventure, PAGE 10

INSIDE

Katamari Forever, 11 Ultimate NES Remix, 12 Onimusha 2, 13 Donkey Kong Jr., 14 Track & Field II, 15

game of the quarter 9 10 NOw playing

LITTLEBIGPLANET Master crafting Photos courtesy of Gamespot.com There are always games that come with a certain amount of hype. These are the titles that everyone raves about but wind up on your never-ending pile of shame. You’ll probably buy it but never actually get around to playing it or playing it long enough to see what all the fuss is about. LittleBigPlanet is one of those such games. Quirky is the first adjective I’d use Lyndsey Hicks to describe the platforming game featuring Sackboy, an anthropo- morphic creature that’s featured EDITOR-IN-CHIEF front and center at the heart of the game. Sackboy can be Sackgirl as and intuitive in letting you figure well, and that’s part of the charm out what to do and how to apply it of the game. It can be whatever later. Where it falters is the jump- you want it to be and do just about ing mechanics. While obvious and anything you simple, the jumping does want it to do, feel slightly off and floaty, in the name of which is a problem in a getting from SCORE: game that relies on that point A to mechanic to carry it. It’s point B. The 5 OUT annoying to have to re-do quirkiness sections of a level solely comes in the OF 5 because of a missed jump, fact that the and that detracts from the environment core experience. in which it While the mechanics does so is all about Play-Share- could use tweaking, not much else Create. The levels of LittleBigPlanet needs work. The soundtrack is are meant to be user-created and fantastic and fits the game per- shared for online play among the fectly. It’s a good mixture of indie LBP community, so the depth of folk and pop, and it immediately the game is immediately obvious reminds of the brilliance that is and worth the price of admission Katamari Damacy. The graphics alone. are also in the realm of perfect and child’s world come to life, and begs rants purchase lems but they’re nothing to keep Controlling Sackboy/girl is evoke a certain sort of charm that to be admired. simple, yet not without its prob- begs more playthroughs just to of system just to play it. If you you from enjoying what’s consid- lems. It’s much like playing any see what developer Media Mol- LittleBigPlanet is one of the few haven’t bothered to play it by now, ered a masterpiece. It’s worth every platformer of the past 20 years ecule could come up with next. It’s games of the past few years that you need to stop what you’re doing moment of its Play-Share-Create and the control scheme is simple breathtaking and simplistic, like a demands to be played and war- and get on it. It has its minor prob- moniker. KATAMARI FOREVER Retread re-roll The situation may have changed slightly, but the premise is still the same in Katamari Forever, the fifth game in the quirky series. Whether or not you’re into the “if it’s not broke then don’t fix it” method of gaming will determine if you can stand another trip to the cosmos with a katamari. Just in case you haven’t played a game in the series, let’s get a Lyndsey Hicks refresher. Katamari titles involve rolling up a sticky ball with every- day objects to increase the ball’s EDITOR-IN-CHIEF size. The larger the ball, the more pleased someone is — usually the Prince and maneuver the Kata- King of All Cosmos. That’s because mari, there still should be some the king is an idiot and innovation at this point, five routinely destroys games in. something related to The soundtrack also his job of protecting SCORE: suffers from stagna- the cosmos. His lack tion. Katamari Dam- of common sense 2.5 OUT acy, the first game in and coordination the series, was known usually means the OF 5 for having a great Prince of All Cosmos soundtrack. As a matter — that’d be you, the of fact, we’ve lauded the player — has to create new soundtrack relentlessly through- stars and reconstruct the cosmos. out our lifespan at GI. But try as we This premise has worked for the might, we’re still trying to under- past four games, and it’s really no stand why there isn’t as much cre- different storywise except for the ativity used in the musical portion addition of the cousins to help in of a game that conjures so many appearance only (added in We Love different creative thoughts. The Katamari) and the fact that the music of the first game inspired so king has been replaced temporar- much, yet by the time of Forever, it ily by the Robot King of All Cosmos. seems that well has grown dry. It’s Absurdity thy name is Katamari. still a good soundtrack, but I was Nothing has really changed, expecting more from this. mechanics-wise, either. There are Overall, if you still love picking up a few additions to the repertoire of a controller to save the cosmos and the Prince, such as the Prince Hop create katamari, you’ll probably and the King Shock, but otherwise be working to stop the Robot King you’re still rolling along to pick of All Cosmos. Otherwise, you’re up items to make your katamari not really missing anything you grow. The series isn’t known for its haven’t already seen. Keep roll- growth and this is a major reason ing by this one if you want a fresh why. While it’s easy to control the experience. now playing 11 ULTIMATE NES REMIX Ultimate retro package

It’s one thing to trade off of nostalgia. And we all know Nintendo does that often and well. What we don’t often get to see is Nin- tendo using its history to change the way its games are played. Until now. That’s where Ultimate NES Remix comes in. The question is, do you want to play these remixed games again and at what price? Remix takes a few of your favorites NES titles and adds different conditions to them in an attempt to spice things up a bit. In Lyndsey Hicks Super Mario Bros., for instance, you have to reach the goal in a certain amount of EDITOR-IN-CHIEF time or defeat a certain number of enemies mate Remix itself and the addition of lead- within a time limit. That’s the mundane erboards and championship mode. So, don’t stuff in the beginning. Later edicts get hard- come into this expecting depth or some er the further down a game’s list you go so magical upgrade to modern day standards of as to provide more of a challenge. graphics. Whether or not you enjoy If you enjoy the days of yesteryear and these challenges depends can and will pay $30 for a compila- sharply on whether or not SCORE: tion challenge package, by all means you enjoy playing games shell out for Ultimate NES Remix. The you probably already 2.5 OUT challenges are amusing for the most have played and want to part, and there are a few extras that see something different OF 5 make playing through the multitude within them. of games offered (16 in all) a real treat. While the challenges may But take it with a large grain of salt and be different, there isn’t much look at it for what it is: A chance to drag the else different about the games. The music original NES games out that you loved as a and graphics from the 8-bit era remain in- kid, more than likely, to get a piece of your tact and about the only thing that’s changed now-adult wallet. Ultimately, this could is the slick modern packaging of the Ulti- have been a lot more. 12 now playing ONIMUSHA 2 Onimusha 2 has elements of satisfying sequel

acquire weapons such as bows and arrows, a matchlock gun and other weapons that use the power of natu- ral elements. Jubei does have two other advantages to help as well: The ability to temporarily transform into Onimusha with enhanced attack power; and, the power to acquire Brandon Beatty various souls without the use of a ogre gauntlet to upgrade his armor and weapons. EDITOR AT LARGE The controls will not present any level of difficulty especially if the Previously, I reviewed the first game in Capcom’s critically ac- Dual Shock analog controller is used. claimed series Onimusha, where You can appreciate the quality of the historic figures and moments in characters’ movements in gameplay Japanese history were mixed with and in the cut-scenes which may action/adventure gaming, third- make one wonder if they are play- person combat and brief moments ing a samurai adventure game or of puzzle solving. After playing watching a movie. the first game, I wondered if the The music performed in this game second installment would keep the is excellent as Capcom’s sound team successful formula and raise the always brings their best efforts, bar for future installments. When guaranteeing that the music will be I received Onimusha 2: Samurai a treat. If you enjoy instrumental Destiny, I put on my custom-made Japanese themes, you’ll probably samurai armor and prepared to love the soundtrack. have my questions answered. Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny Onimusha 2 continues the plot of did exceeded my expectations for a chosen warriors working to pre- game to be considered a true samu- vent Oda Nobunaga from unifying rai masterpiece. This not only shows Japan through the use of demons that Capcom can unleash their called genma. Set 10 years after the dominant species of Earth giving him a brief minute The final new element is role play- brilliance if they really try, but also first game, Nobunaga has risen to instead of man. to defend himself or re- ing that enhances the storyline. shows other developers that in order power despite the defeat of his de- Gameplay in Oni- treat. Another element Jubei can not only interact with monic benefactor Fortinbras, who musha 2 remains the SCORE: is the requirement to non-playable characters, but also to bring a superb gaming prod- was stopped by original protagonist same but does have solve certain puzzles gain allies who will give informa- uct involving various elements of Samanouske Akechi. With Sama- some new elements. 5 OUT to obtain certain tion or assist him in boss battles Japanese culture, they must willfully nouske in hiding to perfect his new During combat with items or gain access provided he is in constant contact present historical elements prop- demon slaying abilities, it’s up to enemies, you can still OF 5 to certain areas. For with them or if his allies are not erly while crafting a high quality Jubei Yagu to take up the sword fight through enemies, these puzzles, I highly involved in their own plans to de- storyline. I can not wait to start the and acquire five legendary orbs and but if timed correctly, advise utilizing patience feat Nobunaga. next chapter of the Onimusha series use them to stop Nobunaga before Jubei can perform “Issen” and strong memorization as In addition to new allies, you where the next destined hero strikes his dark plans of conquest becomes (lighting slash) on various enemies, they have a much stronger effect in will notice that Jubei is normally another blow to Nobunaga’s ambi- reality and demons become the allowing him to continue forward, Onimusha 2 than in the first game. equipped with his sword, but can tions. now playing 13 14 Retrograde

DONKEY KONG JR. Like father, like son I don’t believe there is anyone who in. Whoever had the bright idea to reads GI who doesn’t know that I make jumping a chore and maneuver- don’t care for Donkey Kong. By now, ing your ape around impossible obvi- it should be painfully obvious that ously didn’t get that this was a bad I don’t care for the simian’s retro design decision immediately. Seeing exploits or his more recent outings, as though they are the only skills your either. It’s not that I don’t respect what ape has, it would have been a little bit the great ape has done for gaming; wiser to make those work well. it’s more that I feel he gets credit for Instead, you’ll watch Junior repeat- mediocre-to-horrible games. Donkey edly get eaten alive by crocodiles Kong Jr. falls on the lower end of the (we’re not sure why a plumber would spectrum. Lyndsey Hicks employ these dangerous live creatures Much the same tripe as the original, to kill an ape), nailed by random fall- you’re tasked with saving someone by ing objects and fall to his obvious and moving across hell EDITOR-IN-CHIEF horrific death, all because he’s under- and high wa- developed at jumping and climbing. ter. But wait, would Mario even bother to kidnap And while you’re witnessing this this time the great ape in the first place? Sure, obvious act of poaching, it’d be wise SCORE: to use some headphones. The music, it’s differ- there’s the motive of revenge, but ent! No, you much like the original game, isn’t the you’re never going to get your question 1 OUT aren’t saving greatest and it will get monotonous answered, try as you might. You just Pauline this immediately. Donkey Kong Country OF 5 time around; have to accept that DK needs saving this isn’t. no, you’re and it’s up to you, his reliable off- Your best bet is to try the game just Donkey Kong Jr., spring, to do the job. for the nostalgic factor in seeing a the scion of Kongdom Hoping that your adventure in sav- pretty rare character; Junior was last saving your incorrigible father from ing your father is worth it, the game seen, by my count, in Super Mario the clutches of evil human Mario. tasks you in utilizing a jumping and Kart for the SNES. He isn’t putting The fact that another ape has to save climbing mechanic that may or may in too many other appearances and his parental figure from Mario in a not work, depending on where you are maybe, just maybe, it was this trip out complete role reversal begs several height wise. Any fall more than a few of the jungle that convinced him to questions: Where was Junior when pixels high will kill you, which makes let his father do all of the adventuring his father was kidnapping innocent about as much sense as the kidnap- in the family. This barrel isn’t full of maidens and running rampant? Why ping caper you seem to be embroiled laughs or a blast. TRACK & FIELD II Spirit of an Olympic champion

Hearing the name Track & Field II nearly 30 years. Graphically, there’s a easily creates powerful nostalgia in few things to look at, especially for an me. I was a young girl learning the ins NES title. It’s not going to set the world and outs of an NES in 1989 when my on fire but the graphics are fine for the older brother, Tony, brought home the time period and don’t detract from the Olympic contest title. It was the last overall experience. year that we lived in the same house The music, while not especially and had time to sit down and play vid- memorable, is still serviceable. It’s not eo games together. That was the year something you’re going to be humming that I learned well after you’ve put down that turbo what it meant Lyndsey Hicks controller, but it’s not bad, either. A lot Score: to duel an older of the tracks are well done and fit the sibling who had general mood of the event you’re par- 3 out 5 far better hand- EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ticipating in. There are a lot of sound and-eye coordi- The events, ranging from hurdles to effects in the game and they are gener- nation and reflexes and why teenagers gymnastics and swimming, are fun to ally what make the game what it is. seem to do much better at games than try but frustrating to learn the nu- little kids. ances. It took consultation with Tony, The nostalgic factor is what keeps I’m no Olympic athlete so I’d rather an NES Max controller and many years me coming back to what is a gener- try my hand at the digital versions. to get the hang of certain events. This ally frustrating game. That nostalgia Track & Field II offers a virtual bounty is mostly because there wasn’t a lot is what turns a potentially controller- of events from which to choose, and all of info out there in the days before throwing hurdles event into a first- of them are pretty faithfully recreated the Internet and because, again, I had place triumph over a notoriously from their original counterparts. There terrible untrained coordination and hard A.I. that likes to punish at every are 12 events to choose from, with three reflexes. Even today, with a wealth of chance. that can be chosen in different modes tips out there, it’s still hard to get a It’s my chance to feel like the Olympic or as special events. bull’s-eye in the archery, and it’s been champion that I will never be. retrograde 15 RED & BLUE KNOWLEDGE CENTER

Pokémon on tap this quarter: No. 98: Krabby No. 99: Kingler No. 100: Voltorb No. 101: Electrode No. 102: Exeggcute No. 103: Exeggutor Evolves at Level 28 No. 104: Cubone No. 105: Marowak

Special thanks to Bulbapedia for No. 98 — Krabby No. 99 — Kingler Pokémon artwork LEVEL ATTACK TYPE LEVEL ATTACK TYPE WHAT TO KEEP START Bubble Water START Bubble Water START Leer Normal START Leer Normal AND DELETE 20 Vice Grip Normal START Vice Grip Normal 25 Guillotine Normal START Guillotine Normal Keep 30 Stomp Normal 34 Stomp Normal Bubble Crab Hammer 35 Crab Water 42 Crab Water Vice Grip Hammer Hammer Guillotine 40 Harden Normal 49 Harden Normal

Delete Leer EDITOR’S NOTES: they learn Bubble and Crab Hammer. With the usefulness of the pair moves that don’t come up often, and a Harden Crab Hammer is a unique Water-based limited to those two Water moves when one-hit knockout move like Guillotine Stomp The Krabby/Kingler evolution is one move with a high chance for a critical the situation calls for Water, try to use is always useful, though it has a habit of mediocrity. Neither Pokémon is hit. Bubble, is well, Bubble, which the chain in other situations where a of missing. anything spectacularly special for a most of the Water Pokémon in the Normal Pokémon would be useful. Water Pokémon other than the fact that game either know or can learn. It has a high amount of those type

16 retro game corner RED & BLUE KNOWLEDGE CENTER

Evolves at Level 30

No. 100 — Voltorb No. 101 — Electrode

LEVEL ATTACK TYPE LEVEL ATTACK TYPE START Tackle Normal START Tackle Normal WHAT TO KEEP START Screech Normal START Screech Normal AND DELETE 17 Sonic Boom Normal START Sonic Boom Normal 22 Self Normal START Self Normal Destruct Keep Destruct Swift 29 Light Psychic START Light Psychic Explosion Screen Screen 36 Swift Normal Delete 40 Swift Normal 43 Explosion Normal Tackle 50 Explosion Normal Screech Light Screen EDITOR’S NOTES: keeps them from becoming great: They Lightning-type despite belonging to to wait for one of those Pokémon or Self Destruct do not learn any Electric-type moves that class. This is a shame because Electabuzz to bolster the ranks of your Sonic Boom One of the more interesting on their own. it could rank up there in usefulness Electric Pokémon. Lightning-type chains, Electrode and At no point in their evolution and with other types such as Zapdos or Voltorb have a serious deficiency that moveset growth do they learn anything Pikachu/Raichu. Our suggestion is

retro game corner 17 RED & BLUE KNOWLEDGE CENTER

Evolves with Leaf Stone

No. 102 — Exeggcute No. 103 — Exeggutor LEVEL ATTACK TYPE START Barrage Normal LEVEL ATTACK TYPE WHAT TO KEEP START Hypnosis Psychic START Barrage Normal AND DELETE 25 Reflect Psychic START Hypnosis Psychic 28 Leech Seed Grass 28 Stomp Normal Keep 32 Stun Spore Grass Hypnosis (until Sleep Powder is 37 Poison Poison learned) Powder Leech Seed Stun Spore 42 Solar Beam Grass Poison Powder 48 Sleep Grass Solar Beam Powder Sleep Powder

Delete Barrage EDITOR’S NOTES: Psychic-type, it’s definitely the one to The only downfall of the chain is the the original Pokémon learns every- Stomp go with. It offers interesting moves of fact that Exeggutor only learns three thing that it can. Especially true in this The Exeggcute/Exeggutor evolution- the Poison-type and damaging Grass moves on its own, so finding Exeg- case, the chain will not learn more of Reflect ary line is rather interesting. If you’re moves that make it perfect for multi- gcute and raising it is the best option. the important moves if it’s evolved too looking for a good Grass/Poison/ type status afflictions. As always, don’t evolve the chain until early.

18 retro game corner RED & BLUE KNOWLEDGE CENTER

Evolves at Level 28

No. 104 — Cubone

LEVEL ATTACK TYPE No. 105 — Marowak START Bone Club Ground WHAT TO KEEP START Growl Normal LEVEL ATTACK TYPE AND DELETE 25 Leer Normal START Bone Club Ground 31 Focus Normal START Growl Normal Keep Energy START Leer Normal Bone Club 38 Thrash Normal 33 Focus Normal Thrash 43 Bonemerang Ground Energy Bonemerang 41 Thrash Normal Rage 46 Rage Normal 48 Bonemerang Ground Delete 55 Rage Normal Growl Leer Focus Energy EDITOR’S NOTES: the bastion of greatness but they’ll do special that other chains can’t already but don’t go into battle with the chain if you want a Normal Pokémon to take do and do faster. expecting anything super special out The Normal Pokémon chain of into battle. It’s just a chain really mired We highly recommend catching a of its moveset. Cubone and Marowak aren’t exactly in mediocrity that doesn’t do too much Cubone for the sake of having them all,

retro game corner 19 By Lyndsey Hicks

Don’t forget to download our DDR glossary of terms!

Artist: Z Artist: DJ Taka with Naoki Artist: Captain T. Difficulty: 6/8/10 Difficulty:4/6/9/8 Difficulty: 4/6/7 Chosen difficulty: Heavy Chosen difficulty: Challenge Chosen difficulty: Heavy BPM: 140-320 BPM: 83-148 BPM: 182

Maxx Unlimited, the hardest Boss song as The problem with Kakumei is that it never does With an odd BPM, La Senorita is a tricky song late as Max 2, earns its ferocity with a physically really live up to the challenge it promises. The to get a handle on. It’s not easy to play at that punishing stepchart for each difficulty and its trickiness comes in the overall spread-out dif- speed and use Speed mods effectively without notorious speed change and max speed. Once ficulty of the stepchart, which never seems to tripping yourself up. The best advice that I can you pass the beast on any difficulty, you can be on beat exactly right. The steps are exactly give is to use the x 1.5 mod and play to your probably say you are truly a master of Dance synced with the music and play a large part in strengths, which means using the speed to your Dance Revolution for that specific class. stealing stamina away through slightly tricky advantage when sight reading. Also, learn the The Heavy steps are, by far, the hardest steps sections of song that are spread over the entire song. It’s another chart where the Heavy steps you will encounter until you take on the likes of chart. One section might feature runs while are completely on beat and match the music. It’s Paranoia Survivor/Survivor Max Oni and The another will turn into gallops quickly. The key to easy to take on the difficult and draining parts Legend of Maxx. What makes Maxx Unlimited Kakumei and playing it well is to play it often, when you know what’s coming. one of the hardest Boss songs to master is the learn the song and its rhythm and make sure speed. Most dancers cannot make the required that you conserve your stamina for the punish- Suggested Speed Mod: x2 turns and twists that come with the stepchart. ing runs. They also will not do well with the amount of jumps that are present. The one brief respite Suggested Speed Mod: x2 from all of this comes at the 1:01 mark. That’s where the double Freeze arrow comes in to slow things down considerably. It’s the only place where you can slow down and possibly catch your breath because, after that, the music picks up again and runs through quite a few jumps, all at 320 BPM. The end run is quite dangerous and if you are not prepared, you will fail. The jumps are what you need to watch out for mostly, because it’s these that are the hardest part of maintaining stamina at that speed.

Suggested Speed Mod: x1.5 (Editor’s note: This is to prepare you for Extra Stage conditions: x1.5, Reverse, Dark, Pressure) UPCOMING SONGS Pluto Relinquish Can’t Stop Fallin’ in Love SM A Stupid Barber

20 retro game corner This is the part where Mortal Kombat falls down here’s always a side of the family tree that you hold T your head in shame over when you think of them and their antics. You can’t very well cut them off when they go to jail over something stupid and avoidable, and you can’t say “I’m finished with you” because they’re blood. But you can remark quietly to your mother that they are a waste and wish they’d get their act together. You see, that’s how I feel about the Super NES version of Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3. Ultimate MK3, for starters, is that cousin that never quite does what they’re sup- Photos courtesy of Gamefaqs.com posed to do and is always late to family functions like barbecues. They’re the ones responsible for bringing the drinks and ice, and without them you wouldn’t dare start eating, but you’d wish they’d gotten up just a little bit earlier that day and done what they needed to do. In other words, they’re necessary to the plan but they should have been a little quicker in their step. Ultimate was so very necessary to the plan that was Mortal Kombat the franchise. You can’t very play the original version of MK3 seri- ously for all of the crazy glitches and Sub-Zero/Cyrax domination that occurred in those days of heady killing. It’s just not possible and you will get frustrated trying. Thus, a major revision of the game was created, and characters that point, had grown into the joke that should have been included the first never ends. Later, for some reason, go round are added back to the mix someone legitimized him, but that’s for good measure. beside the point. Here, he’s stand- But the thing about Ultimate ing next to a clown car just waiting MK3 that bothers me the most is to join up with the other palette- the millions of versions floating swapped wretches (Rain included) to around that were created right be- with Lyndsey wreak havoc upon the MK universe. The MK universe was unused to fore MK Trilogy hit the scene, ren- Hicks dering the game superfluous. With hearing me say no until Ultimate two versions of basically the same MK3 forced itself onto my SNES infused into the soul of the game. in one last desperate attempt to game mechanics-wise crowding As a matter of fact, I’d venture to say for space in the buyer’s market remain relevant. And why my SNES there is no soul in the game. It’s just had to suffer the indignity of fading that was fighting games, Mortal Ultimate MK3 stripped like the soul- into its sunset with that stain upon Kombat was rendered irrelevant less machines that are the robotic its bib, we’ll probably never know. from this point forward. Wait, that ninjas of MK3 fame. This is the part of the family tree sounds a lot like when you unlock The game doesn’t play well and that we don’t speak about. We don’t a character. How charming. is full of glitches and other game- call them and they don’t call us. If I What’s not charming is the inso- breaking problems, the music is so saw them on the street, I’d pretend lent and unnecessary version that far removed from the original ver- they were strangers. Not in this graced the Super NES in 1996. In ev- sion of the game that it’s nigh un- house, I’d say. ery sense of the word, the SNES ver- recognizable, the hidden characters sion of Ultimate MK3 is obnoxious. are tacked on and then there’s the Lyndsey Hicks is editor-in-chief It’s so obviously a cash grab that it addition of Rain and Noob Saibot. of Gaming Insurrection. She can be doesn’t require playing to notice that Rain didn’t even need to come into reached by email at none of the MK charm and grace is being and Noob Saibot, by this [email protected] retro game corner 21 Say it loud and proud: Cosplay is not Consent! ’m diverting from the normal course of reviewing the lat- I est in anime and manga for a new segment called “the otaku tent.” I’ll give my thoughts on issues that not only affect otaku, but also other fellow fans of geek culture. Don’t worry, Otaku Corner will still do reviews of great anime and Brandon Beatty manga. This quarter, however, is a topic that affects more than just OTAKU CORNER fans of anime. I feel that as a fan and fellow con-goer, this requires and sleeps video games and geek an immediate call to action. culture, and also has the intelli- GI Editor-in-Chief Lyndsey Hicks gence to make sure that this publi- has recently written columns about cation is on the mark in getting to issues regarding equality in geek Sean McGuiness hosts his panel “Cosplay is not Consent” the public on time. With all of the at Nashicon 2015. | Photo by Brandon Beatty culture. Those articles were writ- stupidity in our society, I’m glad ten not to put down the entire male that people such as Sean McGui- geek population, but to ensure that ness are stepping up to make our created and needed. Last year, there Guiness and learned that cosplay- no gamer or fellow geek is dis- anime — and similar conventions On tap this issue: was an attempt of sexual miscon- ers (especially females) are catch- criminated against in our diverse- — which we thrive in are welcom- duct toward an underage Nashicon ing inexcusable levels of hell for yet-awesome world. After reading ing to all. I’m sending out a call to attendee. The alleged perpetrator either dressing too provocatively or OTAKU CORNER her columns, I felt compelled as a all my gamers, larpers, comic book was found and reported to con staff being a poser. To me, a fan is a fan fellow gamer/geek to write about fan, bronies and all geeks: If we see harassment of another geek, Brandon Beatty a movement called Cosplay is not and police, but if that attendee had be it either anime or video gamer. whether it be inappropriate touch- Consent. While attending Nashicon not spoken up, it would have been It takes CRAZY levels of courage to examines the ing or putting down one’s fandom, 2015 in our hometown of Colum- a different conclusion. This is sad do a cosplay of a favorite character PLEASE step in or report it to con Cosplay is not bia, S.C., Lyndsey and I sat in a CNC because incidents like this one are and brave their way while at cons staff so that they can do what is panel hosted by fellow Columbian not isolated to Nashicon. In 2013, without the side looks of either an Consent need to stop it. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH, Sean McGuiness. McGuiness is a Seattle’s Aki-con experienced a pub- ultra fan or bible-thumper. My fel- fellow geeks. Let’s step up like movement known fixture in our city’s con lic relations disaster when a special low geeks, I need to say this: Alien- our favorite characters and fight scene as “That Godzilla Guy,” who guest DJ was charged with sexual ating our own kindred AIN’T COOL. I against evil. Let’s say to the world sets up shop at Nashicon and Ban- assault against a minor attendee. also have massive beef with dudes COSPLAY IS NOT CONSENT. ANIME LOUNGE zaicon, displaying excellent draw- Despite his capture, Aki-con’s that are perverts toward women handling of the situation resulted cosplaying or not. Get wet this ings of the King of Monsters and Brandon Beatty is editor-at-large his cohorts. in Aki-con being liable and losing In my six years of writing for GI, of Gaming Insurrection. He can be summer with Free! During his panel, I learned about dedicated attendees. I’m VERY fortunate to have learned reached at CNC and why it was unfortunately After the panel, I spoke with Mc- from a gamer that eats, breathes [email protected] TOP 5 Series: Free! How do the X-Men Episodes: 1 to 12 arcs rank against Premise: Three friends -- Haruka, Nagisa and Makoto -- decide to begin each other? a swim club after a fourth in their group, Rin, reappears in their lives after living abroad and rejects their offer to swim together again. The trio recruit another member, Rei, into their club and begin in earnest to resurrect their old swim club and try to make it to Nationals. Is it worth watching?: Yes. It’s got competition and friendship, which is with Lyndsey standard for most anime these days. Hicks Also, if you’re into that sort of thing, Where it’s going?: View this the animation used in the muscles The Iwatobi in this swimming anime is expertly High Swim Club trains hard to make content at drawn. he comes back to his roots after a long which is kind of the point of having a it to Nationals. Their efforts will not www.gaming Breakout character: Rin Mat- absence. The struggle is there but the swim club in the first place. We won’t go in vain, we promise, and it remains suoka. Rin comes across as a pretty way he manages it makes it worth- reveal which member can’t swim, but to be seen if they can patch things insurrection. dark jerk, but he’s got his reasons while to keep watching. the efforts to teach are what make the up with their former friend Rin. How for staying away from the group. Funniest episode: Episode 4, “Cap- episode hilarious. Also, searching for they go about reaching these two com/TheStrip He’s interesting and he’s written well tive Butterfly.” It’s all about teaching the perfect swimsuit in the episode goals is the best and brightest part of because of the realistic way in which one of the club members to swim, also end in hilarity. acquainting yourself with Free!

22 the strip TOP 5 ON THE STRIP — X-MEN ARCS EDITION

God Loves, Man Kills Days of Future Past Onslaught The mutant struggle against one of the X-Men’s One of the more recent X-Men movies, Days If Professor Charles Xavier were to lose most human protagonists is a tragic tale of self of Future Past shows what would happen if himself in the cause of fighting mutant hate 1 hate and bigotry. It’s easily one of the most 2 the Sentinels, mutant-hunting robots, took 3 and believed in the goals of his nemesis sorrowful tales of the lengths homosapiens will over North America and eventually the world. Magneto, Onslaught would be the result. The go to in their efforts to eradicate mutantkind. William It’s a good look at the effects of a singular event merged consciousness of two of the greatest minds Stryker is the leader of the anti-mutant movement affecting multiple realities. in mutancy does not equal a good being and what and stops at nothing to punish mutants in the eyes of becomes the genesis of Xavier giving up the fight other humans and the media. even temporarily.

Messiah Complex Age of Apocalypse A child born with the possibility to save One of the largest stories ever to come to mutants in their darkest hour makes up the the X-Men fold, the Age of Apocalypse is 4 Messiah Complex storyline. Although it’s 5 the focal point for a lot of changes in the X- centered on a child with the name Summers, Men universe, and, Marvel at large. Apoca- it’s interesting to see what happens when Cable – a lypse manages to take over North America and kill known battle-hardened warrior – becomes slightly numerous important mutants in the process. The more human when he’s tasked with protecting a fallout continues to rankle some storylines today. child. the strip 23