Borderlands, FPS or RPG?

OK, so pending the fact that I am writing sporadically at this point, it seems no surprise that I am writing about a game right before Borderlands 2 comes out. I started playing the first installment about 2 weeks ago, and couldn't stop. With the graphic kills, the insane amount of side quests, and a huge land to explore, I found my self wrapped into the story (or stories if you got the DLC). Plus killing stuff with a rocket launcher that melted people's faces was a plus.
I bought a copy at Gamestop, which happened to have all the DLC, and was used by one of the workers there (thanks, Rick!). I started going through the game with Mordecai, the Hunter since I am a big fan of both sniper rifles and revolvers. At first, I thought the game was a bit over the top. Then, after playing for a few hours, I realized it was overflowing with graphic novel style action and adventure. I really didn't expect the fun and level building that I experienced playing this at first, but as I progressed, I became more engrossed in trying to finish side quests like I did in Skyrim and Fallout.

I find myself working more and more on side quests, as the main story I can usually run through pretty quick, and with the DLC, the action just keeps going. The gameplay is great, but the way the weapons are setup, I am still trying to figure out the best combinations for damage. So far I have found that the sniper rifle doesn't really need any modifiers, as it does unbelivable damage with the Hunter, but more levels may provide more weapons that I may find fun.
Overall I would rate this game a 9, with all of the DLC, the expansive weaponry, the ability to level up and change your character to what suits you, and of course, the blood and guts. The only problem I have is the load time between maps. It does take a bit of time to load, but in the end it is worth it.
I recommend this to anyone who is a fan of ARPG's and first person shooters. Soon, the 2nd Borderlands will be coming out, and I for one will be getting it.
Keep on gaming, and I will be writing again soon!

Late, so late!

Well, as you can see, I haven't posted in a while. Shame on me!<br>
I can say I have been a bit busy playing an awesome game called Borderlands. If you haven't played it yet, get it and start as the new Borderlands 2 is coming out shortly. It is like liquid crack for 1st person shooters and RPG fans.<br>
A quick summary of the game would be getting dropped off at a small outpost to look for a mythical vault that is somewhere nearby to gain the treasures inside. Along the way you have tasks to accomplish, and meet some interesting characters along the way. <br>
There is quite a bit of extra DLC that comes along with it after the initial quest is finished. More regions to explore, and more bodies to explode in a bloody mess. It really makes me think that video game designers are really pulling together to come out with great games.<br>
This will be a short one, but expect more in the near future!<br>
Keep on gaming!</p>
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MW3 DLC, NEW map available soon!

Well, it was bound to happen eventually. MW3 is going to be.incorporating another map this month, a favorite by all that played MW2. Terminal is going to be available soon, and I for one just want to see how it looks and feels on the new Modern Warfare.
I have been playing some of the new maps lately on 1v1, 2v2, and 3v3, along with Oasis on both Free for All and Team Deathmatch. One thing I have noticed, is that the DLC seems to run a bit better than some of the other maps. Could this be because more time was spent on the gameplay rather than the beautification of the map? I don't think so, it seems that they started packing more into smaller areas while keeping quality as a top priority. While playing through Oasis, I have noticed there are some areas that are not thought out though. In one part, you can hide behind a small potted plant, and if you are seen and shot at, the plant magically absorbs bullets. This could be an easy fix, but whether the company hears about this or not is what will be the deciding factor. I myself could care less, as the game is there for fun for me, though others may want to find the area and figure out what to do with it. I find Aground to be a great map for both snipers and runners. I have tried.both out, and enjoyed the game play in both aspects. I like the fact that there is an open hull you.can run through in the.middle of the ship. This can reduce the sniper positions drastically, as you constantly have to keep your head on a swivel. With some of the other small maps, such as lookout, I get a crowded feel. The map is spread with many different levels, via a hill, or on top of a bunker, one can find themselves getting chewed up and spit out easily. Claymores and bouncing Bettys work well on the map, due to the claustrophobic nature that comes from running through the bunkers. The long open areas provide range for a nice assault rifle package. My personal favorite is the SCAR, using a red dot sight, and stability. Erosion is probably my least favorite map out of all of the DLC. It has long corridors for sniper positions and also tight multilevel corners. Some like this above most of the others, but in my opinion it was the least thought out. There are levels you cannot reach, multiple lines of sight from one interior position that is perfect for sniping. If you and you team can hold the interior tower, you win the game. I find this type of headquarter camping to be no fun to play against, and that's the reason I play games. Getaway is a nice run and gun map. With different levels inside and outside the map, no game ever really gets boring. I like using a shotgun and submachine gun combo on this map, I get range and power just when I need it thanks to the Sleight of Hand perk. Overall, I can't say I was as impressed with this map pack as I was with some earlier versions of Modern Warfare. Hopefully Terminal will bring back good memories, and help prop up some of these maps. My rating 7. Not the worst, but needs something more. Keep on gaming!

The Walking Dead Episode 2 Review

As long as this series continues, I am officially hooked. The fact that the game uses all the choices from the past episodes to manipulate the outcome of the story is brilliant, allowing you to go back and choose a different path to a different outcome.

As I played through, I kept wondering what was going to happen next. There were some unexpected twists that I found both exhilarating and disturbing at the same time, like finding the teacher in a modified bear trap. I thought at first, we can free him easily, just by doing this. But, well...I won't spoil the suprise for you, you just have to play the game. The shocking loss of part of the team was a great twist towards the end. Along with 80% of the people out there, I didn't kill him, but I may play it through again to see what happens if I do. I love the fact that you can see the statistics for every choice made by other players of the game. This can show whether you made a good choice, or strayed from the pack. My sole intention in this game is the.protection of the little girl, Clementine. Playing as Lee gives me the idea that what he is looking for is a chance at redemption from his past, and survival. If you are looking for a story, full of choices, and graphically sound look no further. The build up isn't long, action is peppered throughout to keep the flow just right, and you have to be prepared to make choices at all times. I thoroughly enjoy the animation, a comic book feel sets the game mood perfectly. I do find some of the angles for maneuvering a bit awkward at times, and the ability to see where you are going gets a bit hampered with the style of movement. If you can look past this, the game is sound. There are a ton of choices you can use in communication, and also in some of the action scenes. Overall, I would say this game is about an 8.5 stand alone episode, and a 9 as a series so far. I can't wait to turn the lights out for the next episode! Have fun, and keep gaming!

MW3 DLC and Dawnguard Arrives!

Well, as you all know, it has been FOREVER since I last posted. Many different factors play in, but 2 main themes are there. My family and money.
I believe in spending time with those who are close to me (even if I have to sacrifice game time) because they are the ones who have helped me get to where I am right now. Waiting again for the new DLC to come to the PS3. It's OK though! I have waited this long for Dawnguard, so another short span won't hurt me a bit.
For all of you who have the add on content, let me know how it is! I'd like to see how you like the addition of a crossbow, how the Vampire half of you kicks butt, or how you destroyed the vampires in one fell swoop.
As I said before, money has been tight lately, so picking up a new game really hasn't been my first priority. I have been playing Skyrim as a Nord, and running through some of the new maps on MW3.
I am not sure whether I like all of them or not, when I get a chance, I will let you know what I think. I did play some 2 vs. 2 the other day against a pair who were playing split screen. My partner and I used this to our advantage, getting above them to eliminate the chance of them seeing us on 2 of the maps.
I can see how having someone else I the room could help you out, but the secret to a good team is communication. Buy a cheap headset with a USB connection, and talk to your buddies.
Now I am not saying you are automatically going to get a MOAB or anything, but it will start to help out your win rate as a team. You will also find yourself listening for footsteps, missed shots, etc. more.
Well I guess that is all for now, keep on gaming, and if you want, add me on the PS Network. Just look up "Sauroke" and send me a friend request. You can see what I am playing, and jump in if you want!

Skyrim Dawnguard Trailer

Well, here is the sneak peak for Skyrim Dawnguard! I think this may be a HUGE expansion into a realm with vampires. Yes, I said it, vampires. From what I gather, you can either become a vampire, or fight them.
If you become a vampire, it looks as if you gain minimal flight, plus the ability to change into a half bat. I have to say, I am excited at the prospect of becoming a bloodsucker... again. This time, a crossbow, a whole new world, and a new adventure await.
Here is a link, to watch this on YouTube. As things come in, I will post more information. Remember, the XBOX 360 gets first crack at the DLC, so everyone else needs to just be patient!

http://t.co/2JVCTnTN

Have fun, and keep gaming!

Skyrim Dawnguard

So much time passes quickly when you have kids. You barely find time for the things you do for yourself.

In the event coming out in November, known as Dawnguard, the first DLC of Skyrim, we could be expecting a huge new world to explore in the Northern region. The possibility lies in some of the leaked information concerning "snow elves". Information concerning the DLC is closely guarded, due to the great amount of followers, and the time being put into the game. It will first be available on the XBOX 360, then for the PS3 and PC. With excitement growing, I am sure Bethesda will bring to light more information, and continue to leak a few bits for everyone. On another note, it has been rumored that the Witcher will be available on consoles soon. Reports are sketchy right now, but tomorrow's summer conference will tell more. With E3 right around.the corner, game companies will be unveiling new games, and information regarding Dawnguard and the Witcher may be more readily available.

Diablo 3 is here!

Well, it was inevitable, and 12 years in the making, but Blizzard Entertainment finally released Diablo 3 today. I have not picked up a copy myself, as I have some other games that I am waiting patiently for. For all of those that are faithful followers of the game, happy gaming!
I was not a huge fan of Diablo in the past, not because I don't enjoy playing,  but dungeon crawler games were all I used to play on the PC back in the day.
I am interested in story line, my character creation, making choices that are detrimental to how the game could end, and the overall feel of accomplishment i get when helping out NPC's.
I hope Diablo 3 does well, Blizzard has had some fine games in the past, and hopefully more in the future.

Elder Scrolls Online Update

<p>More information is being leaked out concerning this game, some of which I am compiling from sources. There is a list of some of the different things that will be in the game, I found this list on neogaf.com, which tells a few of the things about the game.
I find it interesting how the timeline is set 1000 years in the past, but most of the cities that are currently in Skyrim and Morrowind are in the game. In my opinion, the old cities of the dwarves, the game elven cities, and some old forts should have been mapped out as the cities instead. I feel this would have followed the lore of the kingdoms more. If Zenimax Online have followed the trends of such mmorpg's like WOW and Guild Wars, there will be some sort of DLC or a secondary disk to follow up with providing more quests, a change in power of some places that have been cleared out, providing new passages in dungeons, and new challenges. What I am interested in the most with this, is how the timeline will match up to the lore we already know. In Skyrim, some of the Daedric temples would have multitudes of followers inside, and the College of Magic would still be whole and intact. Just a few points to ponder over, and some things to consider.

THE ELDER SCROLLS ONLINE

Well, it is official. Earlier today it was announced that next year there will be a Elder Scrolls Online game. This has been something that fans of the series have been looking for since the beginning.
Zenimax and Bethesda have been creating this world, so far there are 3 factions to choose from, and it will be available for the PC and MAC. No word on whether it will go to console or not. If you don't have either of these, and are a fan of the franchise. You should save some pennies up and grab what you can.
So if you want more information, check out GameInformer and make sure you keep checking in on this blog. I will be following this relentlessly, like a dragon hunting it's prey. Leave me a message if you want to find out more.

Finding time for blogs and games

It is hard at points to come up with good content for people to read. Time has turned into microseconds where I can get a few lines in, before another part of life needs my attention. I will keep trying to review games the way I want to, but bear with me, life is always full of suprises.

I have restarted Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim again, and I must say that I missed it. Currently I am level 6 and moving up quickly, even if it is an hour at a time I get to play. I keep working on my blacksmithing (as usual) and also my sneak ability. I usually don't use the sneak option too much, I usually use the tank approach the first time playing through. On this approach, I will be using more of a Rogue technique. Stealth and the shadows will be my friend.

When I first started playing RPG's and D&D the rogue, or the ranger were the two classes I used the most. As I progressed, I tried out different classes, and am still a fan of the Palladin. Healing and having powers that can help others, while staying true to their beliefs. I find Skyrim has the opportunity to make this class, using all of the approaches that are described, and also by choices you can make throughout the game.

I like the fact that you play how you want to build your character. It really takes the game to a new level. Not many games give you this option, and Bethesda knows this. This company has been on the leaders in ARPG's. They know what they need to make a game worth your while, and to keep you playing for a long time.

From the looks of things, Dishonored looks to be another smash hit, and I can't wait to play it. I am sure some of you have seen trailers, screenshots, and read about it in other places, but I will give you more on this game at a later time.

For now, keep gaming, and remember to follow me @sauroke on twitter, email me, or hey follow the blog, there will be a ton more coming!

Second Run Through of Skyrim

With the  downloadable content looming on the near future, I decided to revisit Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and started going through the quests again. When I first started playing on the PS3, I had a problem with the game freezing up when I tried swimming across water. After turning the game off and on, and looking and searching for the fix, I came across this on Bethesda's Blog explaining what to do. http://goo.gl/vihP4 

What a life saver! I was almost to the point where I may have turned in the game, which would really have been terrible with the new DLC coming out. In the new DLC, supposedly there are going to be the Snow Elves of lore, an ancient race long in the Skyrim culture. Thre is aslo a mention of a crossbow as well, which would be rocking!

So to get back on point, starting the game over has made me think of some of the things that may have been fixed in the patches. I like this option, it actually increases the game play, cheating through a game is not fun to me. I like how Bethesda has increased the look and feel of the game, removing some of the lag that was prevelant when multiple targets appeared.

This is one of my favorite games of all time. I love the fact that you pick up a weapon, or a skill, and the more you use it, the better you are at it. A quick tip to increase your speech, sell your items one or two at a time as seperate transactions. In other words, sell an item, back out, restart the selling process. Every interaction when selling is another chance to work on your silver tounge trophy, so sell, wait, sell!

Going through the game a second time helps me think of new ways to enjoy it. I find myself wondering what my character will be like in the end. Here is what I had as a setup in my last game, I did ALOT of running through the different places, sometimes crossing the map 2 or 3 times to see more of what I could find.


I played for a ton of hours, unlocking new things. I have the Dragon Scale Armor, with a cowl from Dark Brotherhood. My Light Armor Skill is at 92 right now, and I haven't even used any of the skill points on the Skills menu. My Archery is what I rely on most of the time with this class, and actually with most of the classes I have made to run through Skyrim. I find that it is the fastest to increase, and does the best amount of damage as long as you have arrows.

I am using a Daedric Bow (named it my Soul Bro) with Soul Trap on it. It has been upgraded to Legendary, and the Soul Trap is for 10 seconds. By keeping a steady supply of Soul Gems, I never have to worry about running my magic items down to zero. I like using the favorites to switch quickly from my bow to my daggers. I am using 2 Daedric Daggers, one that steals 15 pts. of health, and the other does 30 pts. of Frost Damage. These are both Legendary, I must admit, I make all of my own items, except the cowl of course.

Well, I will continue later with some more insights, I can't wait for the new DLC, hopefully it will come out soon!

What does your character look like? Have you made any improvements on your own that you would like to share? Leave a message! 

What game to review next?

I am always on the look out for a new game to review. My next purchase may depend on what you as readers have to say. I was looking at <iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=rpgactionrevi-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B007FMSH4M&IS1=1&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe>
, <iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=rpgactionrevi-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B006GHA8EE&IS1=1&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe>
, Max Payne III, or Starhawk. I know there are a ton of great titles out there, and I could use a bit of input.

Episode 1 The Walking Dead

What can I say about a game that plays like a graphic novel other than AWESOME! I completed the first episode, and automatically wanted more. The story line was A +, and the amount of choices you make through the game is amazing. I would restart certain parts after completion, just to see what the consequences would be right after making the choice. I love the fact that these choices make a difference in future episodes.
Here is a brief overview of what the next episode will bring, plus a chance to learn more about choices affecting future episodes. http://t.co/xY3i9FLB
I think the animation in the game is what originally drew me  in, I felt as if I was inside a comic, and had choices to make to see what the next cell would be. This may be a turn off for some gamers along with the actions which you control with a set of crosshairs.
All in all though, I found some points where psychologically I felt compelled to do one thing, but from a survival stand point, I had other choices to make.
The characters you interact with also are affected by your actions, poor little Clementine could watch you lie your way around, or put her in situations where she would feel uncomfortable with you. If you have ever seen the AND series The Walking Dead, you would have immediately picked up on Glenn, a series regular being in the game.
The game in my book is a great addition to any library, and I can't wait for the next episode.

The Walking Dead: A new day...

Tonight I will be playing the new series on the PlayStation 3, visit here for the official site.
http://www.telltalegames.com/walkingdead
I ain't scared of no zombies, but I still may play this with the lights on...only because it is bad for your eyes to stare at the TV in the dark. Yeah, that's why.

MORE Kingdoms of Amalur

We left off with weapon creation in Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning
on our last post about it. I would like to dive deeper into weapons, armor, and sagecrafting in this post. When I first started playing, I automatically started with blacksmithing, as I did in Skyrim. The first thing I noticed was the ability to level up by completing a few weapons was not there. Elder Scrolls V: Skyrimallowed you to level up whatever skill you were using, and upgrade through levelling up to get better armor classes you could build. Kingdoms of Amalur worked in a few more opportunities to create the weapon you wanted, without enchanting it, but did not allow you to hone your skills on blacksmithing unless you levelled up. I liked the fact that you could change handles, fulcrums, shafts, and such to create unique weapons and armor, sadly though all of the weapons looked the same unless they were already pre-made items the creators thought up. I would have loved to have seen a menu where you could choose a variety of looks for your weapons, especially if you had your blacksmithing all the way up.
Combining different pieces could help your character out in many ways, for example Robust Rivets give a plus to both health and managers. Also, I am a huge fan of using both poison and fire for most of the enemies in the game.
(Quick hint, use shock on the prismere trolls, this saved me a ton of time instead of dodging, slashing, dodging, arrow, dodge....)
After working through part of the game, I kept finding shards of crystals, and finally realized that in order to maximize weapons and armor, I needed to work on my sagecrafting. I started first by just creating small jewels, using the cloudy shards which gave me small boosts to whatever I was creating.
I then started collecting more shards, and combining them, increasing the way effects of previous trials for gems. I will post a few of the shard effects on my next post, to make it easier for you to find which way you want to go, and what you need to get there.
Gem combinations along with weapon creation can give you an explosive combination. For example, say you put an increase of 10% more damage with Ice on your armor, 10% increase on your weapon, and put a gem into your weapon that causes 20 damage from ice. Now your weapon automatically does 24 damage!
Increases like this can make the game easier, and you can get a few more quests done earlier to level up faster. I will post some of my attempts at weapons,  and also a few screenshots of my character to show what I have been doing.