Dissidia is the combination of an RPG and a fighting game, pitting both heroes and villains from the first 10 games in the Final Fantasy series against one another in an eternal conflict between the gods Cosmos and Chaos. The fighting portion of the game isn’t exactly in the same vein as Street Fighter or SoulCalibur. Rather than using directional inputs and button combos like in the aforementioned titles, you use much simpler button presses to deplete one of the two different stats your opponent has, Bravery and Hit Points. The amount of Bravery a character has is equal to how much damage they inflict upon the opponent’s HP meter. Combining this with the EX attacks (special attacks from the actual games, like Cloud’s Omnislash) and summons that use their powers when certain conditions are met (Bravery reaches zero, etc.), you have quite a unique system that may take some a few matches to get use to.

Role-playing elements are also a large part of the game. Characters can level up to the usual Final Fantasy max of 99, tons of different weapons and armor appear in shops, skills become available as your character progresses, and even an accessory creation system makes an appearance. Just like in the other FF games, you can level grind if a particular enemy is too tough. Instead of running around in a circle to load up random encounters to do so, you just keep doing quick battles. However, if you are in the midst of a character’s story and get to a boss you can’t seem to beat, the only way to get to the quick battle mode is to lose whatever progress was made and start over again after some levels are gained.

Speaking of the story mode, unlike other Final Fantasy titles, the tales told in Dissidia did not really interest me. While it was intriguing seeing some of my favorite characters interact with one another in the games cut scenes, each of the 10 beginning stories told seemed pretty similar and became something I stopped bothering to pay attention to after the first five were completed. Each of the chapters has a few cutscenes using the gorgeous in-game graphics and horrible voice acting.  After you complete one of the character’s stories, a new branch called Shade Impulse becomes available. This four chapter ending of the game’s main mode was more interesting than the rest of the narrative that came before it, but concludes with one of the most irritating boss fights you could ever conceive of. Not only is this one of the cheapest opponents you’ll come across, the stage it takes place on is not even remotely close to the size of any of the other 11 available.

Though Dissidia’s stages are mostly huge, wide open areas, a few of them have enclosed portions that don’t seem to do well with the camera. There were more than a few times where my view was obstructed by a wall or the ceiling, effectively keeping me from dodging the computer opponent’s attacks. Additionally, when combined with the lock-on targeting system, having an opponent on the other side of the wall or ceiling left me awkwardly struggling to get out of the corner.

Even though the stages and camera were a bit disappointing, the amount of stuff Square managed to pack into the game more than made up for it. There’s a calendar system that rewards you for playing on certain days of the week, moogles send you random letters every day with prizes attached, a museum that holds all the things you’ve collected, and a second shop to buy more characters, costumes, and in game bonuses. You also have the option to save and edit replays of your matches with a pretty decent editor. Along with these things, there’s everything you could imagine a Final Fantasy fan would spread a nostalgic smile at to be found somewhere in this UMD, from 8-bit sprites to music from each of the series titles.

All in all, Dissidia: Final Fantasy was one of the best games I have played on the PSP since Crisis Core. With amazing graphics, a ton of nostalgic content, and a fairly unique battle system, it’s no wonder why my battery has finally been dying from use, rather than from being in sleep mode for weeks. Any fan of Final Fantasy would be doing themselves a huge disservice by not at least checking out this game.

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I have posted the full press release below for those who seek more information about each game to be seen at E3.

Activision to Showcase Several of the Most Anticipated Games of the Year at the 2009 E3 Expo

–Company’s Powerful Slate Features Infinity Ward’s Modern Warfare(R) 2, DJ Hero(TM) and Guitar Hero(R) 5 –For the First Time Attendees Can Play Bizarre Creations’ Blur(TM) and Tony Hawk(R): RIDE(TM); and See New Presentations of Marvel(TM): Ultimate Alliance 2, Transformers(TM): Revenge of the Fallen, Wolfenstein(TM), Singularity(TM) and PROTOTYPE(TM)

SANTA MONICA, Calif., May 27, 2009 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ — Activision Publishing, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) will debut a robust slate of new titles based on some of the largest video game franchises at the 2009 Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3 Expo) taking place at the Los Angeles Convention Center on June 2 – 4, 2009.

Headlining the slate is Infinity Ward’s highly anticipated sequel to Call of Duty(R) 4: Modern Warfare(TM), Modern Warfare(R) 2, which is expected to be one of the best-selling games of the year. Additionally, the company will debut its groundbreaking new DJ Hero(TM) game and rock-based title Guitar Hero(R) 5, both of which will once again transform the way consumers enjoy and engage with music by offering the largest array of contemporary artists ever featured in music-based games.

Attendees will also be able to play Bizarre Creations’ Blur(TM) which marries intense wheel-to-wheel racing action with spectacular power-ups and real-world cars and locations, as well as Tony Hawk(R): RIDE(TM), which will redefine skateboarding through an innovative motion sensing skateboard controller that allows for unprecedented freedom and movement.

“At this year’s E3, we will debut the largest and strongest lineup in our company’s history,” said Mike Griffith, President and CEO, Activision Publishing, Inc. “Our innovative slate features games based on some of the industry’s largest franchises, as well as exciting new offerings in the music, racing and action-sports genres that are poised to redefine the interactive entertainment experience. We are also very excited to showcase two new intellectual properties Singularity(TM) and PROTOTYPE(TM) which are already garnering a tremendous amount of interest and excitement.”

Activision’s Full E3 Game Slate Includes:

Blur is set to revolutionize the racing genre as the ultimate wheel-to-wheel racing action experience with spectacular power-ups, real-world locations and over 60 licensed cars. The pick-up and play game drops players into heart-pumping, electrified racing action with 20 cars on track all targeting the finish line and battling each other as they trade paint and collect intense power-ups, including the ability to blast other cars out of the way with huge bursts of energy, boost their speed and more. Gamers can also engage in competitive and team-based multiplayer with up to 20 racers online, or on a single console via 4-player split-screen; plus create custom groups to design their own complete game mode. (Xbox 360(R) video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION(R)3 computer entertainment system and Games for Windows(R); not yet rated by the ESRB).

In DJ Hero, faces in the crowd are transformed into the life of the party as the game’s turntable controller – created exclusively for DJ Hero and featuring familiar DJ tools including a fully-rotating turntable, sample buttons, effects dial and cross fader – immerses fans into the authenticity of DJ culture and a sea of music. (Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 system, PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment systems and Wii(TM) system from Nintendo; not yet rated by the ESRB).

Guitar Hero 5 features the strongest, most varied set list to-date comprised of master tracks from 85 of the hottest bands of today and the biggest classic acts including Kings of Leon, The Rolling Stones, The White Stripes, Santana, Vampire Weekend, Tom Petty, Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, plus more than 25 artists from a variety of music genres that will be making their music video game debut. (Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 system, Wii and PlayStation 2 system; not yet rated by the ESRB).

The greatest Super Hero(TM) action/RPG of all time is back with the world’s largest army of heroes and villains in Marvel(TM): Ultimate Alliance 2. Incorporating elements of the acclaimed Marvel Civil War storyline, the game allows players to choose their side and team up with revered heroes and villains, including Spider-Man, Wolverine, Hulk, Iron Man, Deadpool, Venom, Green Goblin and Captain America. Players can combine characters’ powers and unleash astonishing new attacks. (Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 system, Wii, PlayStation 2 system, PSP(R) (PlayStation(R) Portable) system and Nintendo DS(TM); not yet rated by the ESRB).

On November 10, 2009, Infinity Ward will make its return with the release of Modern Warfare 2, the most-anticipated game of the year and the sequel to the best-selling first-person action game of all time, Call of Duty(R) 4: Modern Warfare(TM), which has sold more than 13 million copies to date. Modern Warfare 2 continues the gripping and heart-racing saga with an unprecedented level of action as players face off against a new threat dedicated to bringing the world to the brink of collapse. (Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 system and Games for Windows; not yet rated by the ESRB).

An all-new, third-person open-world/action game, PROTOTYPE lets gamers feel the power of being the ultimate shape-shifting weapon. You are the PROTOTYPE: Alex Mercer – a genetically mutated man without memory, armed with amazing shape-shifting abilities, hunting your way to discover what created you and determined to make those responsible pay. As Alex, gamers tear through a densely populated contemporary New York City with Parkour-style agility, consuming anybody that gets in their way…assuming their physical identity, memories and abilities. (Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 system and Games for Windows; the game is rated “M” by the ESRB).

Singularity pits shooter and sci-fi fans against a devastating fracture in time. As players attempt to unravel a conspiracy, they must fight their way through ever-shifting epic sci-fi environments, occupied by Russian soldiers and time-ravaged creatures, while sudden time waves hurl them back and forth between 1950 and the present day. Use time as a weapon as you attempt to unravel the mystery and prevent a catastrophic event that threatens all humanity. (Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 system and Games for Windows; not yet rated by the ESRB).

Featuring an innovative skateboard-shaped controller, Tony Hawk: RIDE redefines the sports genre by offering a dynamic hands-free gaming experience. Using full motion sensing technology, players physically control the action by performing various movements and gestures on the board that directly translate into amazing tricks in the game in a variety of settings and half pipes. The new wireless skateboard controller provides an accessible and social gaming experience that allows players to feel what it’s really like to skate. Without complex button combinations or analog sticks, gamers can literally step on the board to play the game. (Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 system and Wii; not yet rated by the ESRB).

Based on Hasbro’s legendary TRANSFORMERS property and Paramount Pictures and DreamWorks Pictures’ upcoming feature film, Transformers(TM): Revenge of the Fallen, the video game thrusts players into a battle for supremacy across the globe as either AUTOBOTS or DECEPTICONS to drive, fly, fight and blast their way through intense, pressure-packed levels. Delivering more control than ever before, players can select from an extremely diverse range of playable TRANSFORMERS characters and jump straight into action as they instantly switch between robot, vehicle and weapon modes to fight for the preservation or annihilation of all mankind. Players can also fight the epic war between the AUTOBOTS and DECEPTICONS online in explosive, multiplayer combat. (Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 system, Wii, PlayStation 2 system PSP system, Nintendo DS and Games for Windows; the game is rated “T” for the console and PC versions and “E10+” for the handheld versions by the ESRB).

Wolfenstein(TM) brings the Nazi’s dark obsession with the occult to life, by intertwining fast-paced, intense story-driven combat with a diverse sci-fi experience. As BJ Blazkowicz, a highly decorated member of the Office of Secret Actions (OSA), you are sent on a special mission into the heart of the Third Reich to investigate evidence that the SS hierarchy may possess a new and mysterious power. Wolfenstein is scheduled to be on store shelves on August 4, 2009. (Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 system and Games for Windows; not yet rated by the ESRB; the game is rated “M” by the ESRB).

For assets and more information on Activision’s E3 videogame line-up, please visit virtualpressoffice.com/public/kit/activision.

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When you put this great amalgamation of the best Genesis games from the early nineties, don’t expect amazing graphics, but do expect HD blast processing. All the titles included have been ported to the Xbox 360 surprisingly well, but not in widescreen (huge bummer). The simple menus will not confuse you, but do not blow you away. If you like anything from RPGs to dolphin sims, this title gives you the player a massive amount of variety and range of games that will not be surpassed this generation. I can say this because retro game collections have fallen off the map due to the popularity of downloadable games via Xbox Live, Playstation Network and the Virtual Console. If you do not have access to any of these services then this game may be the only way to get your retro gaming fix. Many of the games included in this collection are very hard to find or way too expensive for anyone to play otherwise. At around sixty cents per game only Altered Beast is worth less than that amount (I kid). Each game has the ability to save, which is awesome for busy gamers. Along with local co-op, for games that support it, each game keeps up with its predecessor on the original Genesis (Streets of Rage Co-op is necessary, damn that game is tough).

Implementation of the controls on the Xbox 360 gamepad are well done for most games, but somewhat convoluted for others. For example, Comix Zone, the third item is mapped to the left trigger, which is a little strange and sometimes awkward. And the only way for the game to show you the controls is a picture prior to starting the game, so I hope you have a good memory. I am not going to comment on the sounds because it is basically the same as the old Genesis, but it is a bit clearer. I understand that this is only a collection, but it would have been cool to get a connector for the Xbox 360 to hook up a Genesis control, but it may be impossible.

Extras included with each game are the box art and game art included and accessible from the main menu prior to launching any game. Some of them are completely hideous, but at least they don’t have pizza grease dried on them. With the art, there is a write up, by a certain podcast host, that includes some history and fun facts for each title. These little tid-bits are welcome, but I wish there was more info for each title because most gamers were not a part of the industry and its members when we were in our pre-teen years.

As for the achievements, they are well balanced and not frustratingly tough. Not every game has an achievements, so for you Gamerscore lovers, check out the guide for more information (they aren’t too hard). The only thing missing in this title is online play. Sonic’s Ultimate Genesis Collection would be absolutely perfect if online co-op, online leader board and other capabilities were present. I am assuming that these mechanics were not included to keep the price of the game down because this is would be the second or third time we own each one.

This title, minus its few short-comings, would be a great addition to any Xbox 360 collection. Backbone Entertainment has succeeded in making a great collection of Genesis titles. If you have a retro gaming craving that needs sustenance then Sonic’s Ultimate Collection will suffice. Thirty dollars for 47 Genesis games is an amazing sixty or so cents a game. I would recommend this title to anyone who wants to relive their Sega Genesis past and play some of the best games from the late eighties and early nineties.

Full list of Games Included:

· Alex Kidd in the Enchanted Castle
· Alien Storm
· Altered Beast
· Beyond Oasis
· Bonanza Bros.
· Columns
· Comix Zone
· Decap Attack starring Chuck D. Head
· Dr. Robotnik’s MBM
· Dynamite Headdy
· Ecco the Dolphin
· Ecco II: The Tides of Time
· E-SWAT
· Fatal Labyrinth
· Flicky
· Gain Ground
· Golden Axe I
· Golden Axe II
· Golden Axe III
· Kid Chameleon
· Phantasy Star II
· Phantasy Star III: Generations of Doom
· Phantasy Star IV: The End of the Millennium
· Ristar
· Shining in the Darkness
· Shining Force
· Shining Force 2
· Shinobi III: Return of the Ninja Master
· Sonic 3D Blast
· Sonic and Knuckles
· Sonic Spinball
· Sonic the Hedgehog
· Sonic the Hedgehog 2
· Sonic the Hedgehog 3
· Streets of Rage
· Streets of Rage 2
· Streets of Rage 3
· Super Thunder Blade
· Vectorman
· Vectorman 2

Plus 9 UNLOCKABLE GAMES:

· Golden Axe Warrior (SEGA Master System)
· Phantasy Star (SEGA Master System)
· Alien Syndrome (Arcade)
· Altered Beast (Arcade)
· Congo Bongo (Arcade)
· Fantasy Zone (Arcade)
· Shinobi (Arcade)
· Space Harrier (Arcade)
· Zaxxon (Arcade)

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Different crews have to complete different missions, you can lead your crew in 60+ different missions. Missions can include killing somebody, resuring somebody, stealing objects from another gang etc.

Every gang has a different storyline behind them, which makes the game very-long lasting because you can complete the game in one gang, then start the game over as another gang and complete the game all over again, which makes it very fun.

If this isn’t engouth, there seven mini games within the game, each with 8 different levels, these include a free drive, where you can roam around London, you can become a tourist and find your way to different London spots and take a photo of them, cause havoc, where you have to go around London causing as much damage and havoc as possible in order to pass, Speed Trap, where you have to drive a vechile around at a certain speed or more or the car will explode, Riot Control, where you are the police and you have to control a riot etc.

You are able to pick what location to do the mini game in, all of the different areas of London, such as Finsbury, Clerkenwell, Holborn etc. I find this a great feature because when I’m doing Get Away, I know I want a area with a number of allys, turns and roundabouts so I can easily change direction, while if I know I need to go fast and not stop, I can pick a map which has very-long rounds which don’t have any sharp-bends.

Each area is fully designed with quite good graphics, you can tell the difference between areas, there will be traffic in more popular areas and there will not be as much traffic in other areas.

Along with this, you are also able to play a full strategy mini game, where you have to control a gang and try to take over London and kill other gangs, you can even go to the Pub and play pub-games, such as snooker, pool, darts etc.

If you are looking for a game which you will not complete and get bored of within a few days, then Gangs Of London is the prefect game for you, you will not get bored of this game quickly.

The only issue I have had with the game, is the controls, it can be quite hard to get used to trying to kill somebody and driving around, although once you get the hang of it, it’s quite simple really, it’s just a case of practice.

Along with the story line, every character has their own voice which is played, so you don’t have to read the dialog, it’s gets spoken to you in different voices and correct accents and emotion. Which makes the storyline seem very realistic, all of the missions are also explained via Voice with a storyline leading up to them, its if you are being spoken to by the leader of the gang or a gang member.

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