This year we've decided to collect what we thought was good, bad, and ugly about the exhibition, along with each of us throwing in a random thought and picking the best game of the show.
Adam Ghiggino - PALGN Writer
The Good
Sony really impressed me with its strong showing this year. While LittleBigPlanet was given its own area to shine, a lot of other quality titles which are yet to be released were playable for all at the expo. Resistance 2, Resistance: Retribution and the two biggest surprises - Resident Evil 5 and Killzone 2 - blew me away, and were definitely some of the biggest draws for the show's attendees. You're OK in my book, Sony. Just keep your nose clean. A tip of the hat to you.
The Bad
Microsoft, I know you love Gears of War 2. I do too. But, you know, you could try showing us some of the other stuff that's coming out on your console. I know I'll love you today, but tomorrow... ah, tomorrow. I want to plan for our future, but you seem more concerned with the here and now. We are truly two star-crossed lovers from different worlds. A wag of my finger to you.
The Ugly
The Brian McFadden FIFA presentation. Nothing against him, but I didn't need to be reminded how awesome EA and FIFA were every 30 seconds. If you're interested, they are 'so awesome'. Which is so awesome.
Cosplay makes me uncomfortable
So let's face it. Cosplay is a huge phenomenon. There are literally thousands of people in Australia who invest huge amounts of time and money into creating brilliant and authentic costumes from their favourite movies, anime, television shows and video games. It seems to be a widely accepted and appreciated hobby. But you know what? I don't like it. I don't like having the walls of reality cave down around me. I don't like having lunch with the Joker sitting on my left and Altair sitting on my right. Society as we know it relies upon a few key basic principles, and one of them is that I shouldn't be able to get off the bus after playing Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney on my DS only to find Miles Edgeworth waiting at the corner for the lights to change. My mind can't differentiate between fantasy and reality. That's why I fully support the ban of R18+ games in Australia. From now on, cosplayers be warned - I'm packing heat. If I come across any zombies, insane comic book criminals or heartless anime demons, I will defend myself. I can't take the chance that there's a perfectly normal person underneath.
Game of the Show - Prince of Persia
There was no other game I played more of at eGames (aside from Mirror's Edge in a failed attempt to win the fastest level time and a copy of the game). The art style is out of this world, the controls are chocolately-smooth, and it's all so super-addictive. Even though it's from an established franchise, it's the most successful original game I played at the show, and for that reason it wins my coveted gold star. That and I like to be different from everybody else. Take that, Left 4 Dead.
Daniel Golding - PALGN Writer
The Good
It's unlike me to toot our own collective horn, but the best aspect of the show for me was the response to our petition for an R18 classification. I was stunned throughout the entire weekend at the response it received. Not only was there a constant, steady flow of visitors signing the petition throughout the three days, but it appeared word-of-mouth was getting around: at times, individuals would come up to our booth equal parts excited and determined, ready to add their name to our list having heard of it from others. We had all comers, young and old take part - of particular delight for me was seeing a 70-year-old sign on. Who says gamers aren't diverse and vocal?
The Bad
There were certainly some stand-out games this year, but on the whole, I actually couldn't find too many titles that I really wanted to spend a lot of time with. Maybe eGames came just the wrong week this year, meaning that many A-list videogames have just made it into the homes of players. It's also probably a sadder indictment on the speed with which we move on these days - a week old game isn't worth playing at an expo, it seems. So, it's likely not any fault of the organisers, but worth noting nonetheless.
The Ugly
Unfortunately, there was one particular low-light at eGames 08: the Develop Theatrette. Despite having a stellar line-up of speakers (many education institutions, Steve Fawkner from Infinite Interactive, and more), no-one turned up to see them. This might have been because the Theatrette was quite walled-off (to block out noise, I was told), but in effect, it meant that until late on Sunday, when a few major attractions drew a small crowd, eight people was the record audience. Some presentations didn't even happen, either through a lack of audience or a lack of speaker. It's my 'ugly' section because it had so much potential, and the links with the terrifically successful Develop, held only days ago, could only mean good things. Here's hoping that a workable solution is found next year - an accessible presentation area that isn't too drowned out by sound.
Booth girls make me uncomfortable
I may be the only one who thinks so, but it seems vaguely offensive that skinny, tightly-clothed girls will make a booth more interesting. I am not a cat, and booth girls are not my catnip. Often, these attendants seem disinterested in the goings-on at the expo, and more-than-slightly disingenuous in their dealings with the public. There is, of course, the occasional attendant who appears genuinely interested in eGames, and I don't necessarily associate looks with attitudes or knowledge. What I do believe, though, is that the overwhelming presence of young girls in tight tops is a deliberate marketing strategy which irritates me no end.
Game of the Show - Left 4 Dead
It might be out very soon, but nothing was more instantly enjoyable than fighting off the zombie hordes with three of my favourite PALGN writers. I'm not sure it is their most revolutionary work, but Valve continue their astoundingly high level of quality with Left 4 Dead. This is the game that will force me to renew my expired Xbox Live membership: resist it at your own peril.
These guys think they've got big guns. Wait until we introduce them
to forum member Exc355um.
to forum member Exc355um.
Kimberley Ellis - PALGN Writer
The Good
I really enjoyed the shiny, red corner that was the Sony booth as it had lots of quality titles on display to whet gamer's appetites. My particular highlights were Prince of Persia and Resident Evil 5 - which was lucky that it was worth my time since I spent a majority of the weekend standing in line to play it. Special kudos go to the SingStar stage and all of those brave souls who dared to show off their karaoke skills to the entire show floor.
The Bad
The Left 4 Dead display. Tucking Left 4 Dead in a corner, wrapping it in black plastic and having no discernible markings to let people know that something awesome was inside and beckoning for their attention. I did four laps of the show floor until I found it you sadistic bastards! (AKA the organisers)
The Ugly
The poor suckers who got paid to walk the floor in various sweat inducing costumes and knocking into people all in the name of whoring a particular product. Yes, I am pointing my finger at you Mr Tivo television!
The free swag
One thing that has always struck me is the sheer volume of free swag that is on offer at these game shows: stickers, posters, t-shirts, lanyards, you name it and they are probably giving it away. Don't get me wrong, I love free stuff as much as the next person, but witnessing the lengths that people will go to get their hands on something for free, no matter how crummy it is astounds me.
I witnessed the madness first hand as I watched my fourteen year old cousin circle the stage like a seagull eyeing off a hot chip - all so she could grab a pair of purple Monash University thongs...oh, the shame.
Game of the Show - Left 4 Dead
From the moment I finally located the game hidden beneath its plastic veil, I fell in love with its addictively-fun co-op gameplay and the tight control system. Valve again showed why they are once of the best development houses in the industry.
Harry Milonas - PALGN Writer
The Good
Pretty much the Feel Good Hit of the… well, Everything. The doubling of show floor space. The growing gender-neutral turnout. The hilariously ignored Digital Lifestyle section. From the amazing attention to detail in cosplayers costumes (the Silent Hill 3 Heather and the Ace Attorney series' Ema Skye in particular turning me into a blithering fanboy), to the sense of near show-wide camaraderie and support of our R18+ petition. If last year's eGames was the disappointing Menace with a bitter Phantom-like aftertaste, then surely 2008's was A New Hope for us all.
The Bad
How much crap can an eGames-goer grab if an eGames-goer could grab crap? Seriously folks, just because you paid an entry fee, doesn't mean you have to justify it by picking up any useless pieces of regurgitated plastic and paper handed to you. Forget global warming. Nerdy materialism is the real threat to this ball of dirt.
The Ugly
Even with the freak evacuation alarm on Saturday, at least I was totally professional enough to hold back the obligatory geekish cry of "SOMEBODY SET UP US THE BOMB". Unfortunately, certain unnameable corporate entities ignored such notions of restraint, instead thinking it the perfect time to shower trinkets into the confused evacuating crowd for some spontaneous shameful marketing. Oh, Australian game industry, how you slay me. With half-arsedery and embarrassment.
Game of the Show - Left 4 Dead
A game only truly experienced on its maddeningly hectic Advanced difficulty, along with three other mates and fellow staff members. Except for Capone. You cowardly "you guys go first" son of a…
Dear Tivo Logo Person...
Or should I say, girl? You are the perfect example of a fantasy companion, after all. The way you look at me with your non-existent eyes. That innocent static smile. Sure, your reason for existence was virtually outnumbered and ignored by the sweating gaming masses. They were too busy ogling human flesh. But not me. I never judge a creepy mascot for a dying medium by its exterior. And that's why you wandered over to my place. Slinking your legs around my booth, playfully tossing your antennae back in a shy manner. Baby, you can help get my remote play going any time.
Tristan tries to tactfully tickle TiVo's teeth.
Luke Mitchell - PALGN Writer
The Good
Apart from the success of our petition, seeing Resident Evil 5 there in person was pretty cool, and surprising to say the least. Overall I'd have to give the gold star to Sony once again, who had the biggest presence at the event and the most impressive line-up by far. Casuals, hardcores and kiddies alike have plenty of options thanks to Sony, and with no Guitar Hero: World Tour or Lips in sight, SingStar was the #1 party game of choice at eGames, with 4 different setups available for you to grab a microphone and have a sing. Oh, and beating Daniel at Pro Evo - easily a highlight.
The Bad
While being close to the Sony booth was good, being in such a close proximity to the SingStar stage was a little less thrilling. Apart from yours truly jumping up for what I assume were easily the best singing performances of the entire weekend, hearing 'Total Eclipse of the Heart' about a hundred times is enough to drive any man to the point of insanity. And what the hell is it with this 'team' vibe? Resi 5 gives you a partner, Prince of Persia has some mole hanging off you all the time... how did this dynamic become so popular all of a sudden? It's more annoying than helpful. Oh, and losing to Daniel at FIFA - easily a lowlight.
The Ugly
Wii Music. I'm sorry Nintendo, I know deep down that I love you and I wear my Super Mario 3 T-shirt with pride, but... this game just looks embarrassing. I'm sure it's this amazing casual experience, but as a 'hardcore' gamer, I just can't help but laugh and shake my head. Seriously, does anybody actually think that they don't look like an absolute tool when they play this? Or is 'looking like a tool' the new black?
IT'S MY TURN TO PLAY, YOU ****!!
What is with people hogging game-time!? We get it, you want to play as much as possible... but when you have several people lining up behind you, it's a little bit ridiculous. I'm looking at you, Prince of Persia dude. You sat there and I waited for 15 minutes, asked you, and then gave up... I came back about an hour later and you were still sitting there while some other poor bastard was waiting his turn. RUDE. Don't get me started on those teenage girls singing three songs in a row on Disney: Sing It while a couple of 8 year olds stood behind them, depressed. Shame on you.
Game of the Show - Left 4 Dead
Honestly, it probably wasn't the most polished game of the show, and it certainly isn't the most amazing to look at; but out of everything there, this is the game that surprised the hell out of me. Shooting zombies is a favourite past-time of mine, so forgive my bias, but even after a very long session with the very team-focused shooter on the first day of the show... Left 4 Dead was all I could think about. I wanted to play it more. I still do. For pure intense fun, you simply can't go past it.
Tristan Kalogeropoulos - PALGN News Editor / Writer
The Good
Seeing a couple of kids that looked about eight, Singstar mics in hand, screaming their hearts out to Queen's We Will Rock You. With unashamed pitch problems, they knew that what they were doing was great. In my humble opinion it was one of the punkest moments in musical history. I imagine that 10 years from now I'll be like one of the 30-40 people that pogoed around Manchester's Lesser Free Trade Hall in June of 1976, able to brag that they witnessed the first Sex Pistol's gig ever.
The Bad
Having to compete with the quilting expo going on in The Exhibition Centre at the same time eGames/iDef. If only videogames were as popular a pastime as sewing various coloured patches of cloth together.
The Ugly
Being informed by your co-workers that entering contests involving games that you've just reviewed, and going up against people who may or may not have ever even played said game, goes beyond bad sportsmanship and places you firmly in the realms of being a scumbag. Anyone want a size L LittleBigPlanet t-shirt that carries with it just a slight stench of guilt?
What a diverse audience gaming has
The average age of 'gamers' in this country is now 31, but that statistic belies the diversity of the group. It was truly amazing to see the myriad forms of people who play games streaming through the Exhibition Centre's doors. Adolescent boys, excitable teenage girls, people with complex disabilities, couples in their 30's, parents with their kids and even grandparents wandered around the Exhibition Centre, possibly as dumbstruck at the flashing lights as I was. It certainly drives home the fact that gaming is for everyone, and that the more variety that this market can offer the stronger it will become.
Game of the Show - Left 4 Dead
I'd already played the demo on PC, but was amazed at just how well it worked on Xbox 360. I think it's one of the scariest games around. Those zombies make me want my blankie. Let’s just say that if you’re a woman who’s given birth a couple of times, and you're about to play Valve’s latest, make sure you’ve got some Tena Ladies handy.
It seems that the PALGN team can't wait for Left 4 Dead's zombie invasion.
Anthony Capone - PALGN Writer
The Good
E3 may have taken a tumble in recent years, but eGames has soared to new heights since it first began in 2006. The commitment of publishers and developers to the event was more apparent than ever this year, with several unreleased big-name titles on display. Visitors could get their hands on Resident Evil 5 and Killzone 2, despite them both being several months away. Ubisoft and Sony were perhaps the standouts this year, providing a diverse range of games for onlookers to try out, with seats close by for the wearied. And we all love free posters!
The Bad
Nintendo, we all know you can be possessive at times, but what's the go with placing fences around your booth? Do we really have to be herded around your display like sheep? The next big Zelda or Mario title weren't there, so it wasn't as if a horde of Nintendo fanboys was about to trample the all-white booth into the ground. Next time, please allow us to wander the floor at our own leisure, and not make us wait to observe your next Wii-themed title in action.
The Ugly
Gears of War 2. We all know how great it is, but is there any reason why it has to be the only game attended by Microsoft? To make matters worse, visitors were only given a few minutes at best to try out the multiplayer side of things. Microsoft has one of the best line-ups this holiday season, but Fable 2, Banjo-Kazooie and Lips were no-where in sight. I guess Halo Wars was also too much too hope for. Next time Microsoft, please show us a little more than your latest cash cow.
Gamers united
Stereotypically, the term 'gamer' often conjures the image an anti-social teenage couch-potato. That view was lancered this weekend, as we met numerous visitors who would classify themselves as 'gamers'. Each was friendly, informed, and more than willing to discuss the finer points of the latest epic title. Moreover, they all possessed an infinite amount of knowledge of the industry, almost in a way that cannot be likened to fans of other forms of entertainment like music and films. Not only do gamers gel easily, but also possess a maturity that debunks the myth certain commentators and politicians would have the public believe. As fans of interactive entertainment, we stand united in the community and play.
Game of the Show - Killzone 2
We've all heard the phrase 'cinematic experience' repeated over and over by publishers describing their games. Well, in this case, it might be true. The first thing that blew us away in Killzone 2 was the visuals, even though the code was not final. It may be a big call, but the infamous pre-rendered trailer that played years ago is about to become reality (virtually, at least). Seeing the helmet fall off a Helghast trooper after we shot him in the head brought a smile to our face. The cover mechanic also works surprising well, but after playing Call of Duty and Rainbow Six, same players may find the default controls a little unwieldy. The original Killzone didn't reach the heights many were expecting, but Killzone 2 might just fulfil its promises.
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Let us know what you thought of the show in the forums
? Good to see you while you were there anyways.
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