WHAT IF...WE ALSO HAD MARVEL COMICS UNIVERSE ONLINE?

Immediately there will be those who disagree, and feel that the Big 2 comic companies stop imitating each other. Understandable. However, they are going to generally do it anyway, and let's face it, there are moments where imitation lead to something bigger, and better things. An example of this would be Deadpool. The Merc With A Mouth is a massive success, and although has become his own character, Wade Wilson is a rip-off of DC Comics Deathstroke aka Slade Wilson.

So, why doesn't Marvel try their hand at online gaming in a style similar to DC Universe Online? Similar. It wouldn't have to be a direct rip-off, as they could even listen to the audience (which contain both DC and Marvel fans) and improve off of it. Everyone would have their own list of ideas, for both game play and stories. Even having the "real" heroes and villains be more involved than they do in DCUO, where they are involved but not on a level that matters really.
Perhaps take from Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic, and have the paths that gamers choose be decision based through out the game. Or at the very least an option to turn and continue on with the character you already have instead of having to build a new character.
Story wise break the initial options down to "Mutant", "Alien", "Experimental", and "Human". Experimental would cover characters like Captain America, but also "accidentals" like Spider-Man and Daredevil.
Visually it would be nice to have costumes, powers, etc be more Marvel based, with some things similar to that of the DC characters. Which seems to be needed based on the number of Marvel characters that are running around the worlds of DC Universe Online.

Of course this may or may never happen. One can dream and hope. There must be others out there who also want this. Even as a mainly DC Comics fan, find myself wanting this to happen.

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NON-GEEKY NERDS ALL-TIME FAV VIDEO GAMES

It is hard to narrow things down to a simple Top 5 or 10 as games are supposed to get better with each new system, but there are some greats along the way that stand out and although not always, would've been just as good as a game of today if on a PS4 or X-Box One. So, we'll break things down by gaming consoles with mini Top 5's for each. Of course, it is only for the systems NGN has used.

Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)
 1.  Super Mario Bros.
For the majority of us older nerds, Mario was our cherry popper. Our first. Jokes aside it was and will always be an all-time great, with Mario still being the face of Nintendo today.

2.  Mike Tyson's Punch Out
It was somewhat of small taste of what we experience now with the Wii, and that was a slight bit of exercise. Pressing "up" with everything you got both while on route to and while facing Iron Mike. Blisters weren't optional at times, but damn it was a great game. Never could get the Power Glove to work, which made this even more like today's Wii.

3.  Super Mario 3
Far better than the second installment, Super Mario 3 went back to basics but also to another level from the first. Hidden Warp zones to the introduction of "suits". No wonder this game was used in "Wizard".

4.  Who Framed Roger Rabbit?
Not sure what it was about this game, but even 20 years later it is a great. One that should possibly get an upgrade both in video game and movie formats.

5.  R.B.I. Baseball
Being heavy into baseball as a kid made this perfect for the nerdy at that time, most notably in the winter. It became a matter of just how many home runs you could hit, and throwing no-hitters and shutouts against the opposition.

Honorable Mentions:
Legend Of Zelda, Mega Man 3, Batman: The Video Game, Duck Hunt, and Castlevania.

Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)
1.  Super Mario World
It was a perfect first for the new system back then, and one feature truly stood out in comparisons with NES...saving your progress!! Also, the addition of Yoshi and Bowser's offspring was a great, and broadened what most of us prefer, the story.

2.  Super Street Fighter II
Street Fighter was preferred over Mortal Kombat as a kid, and Super Street Fighter III was the preferred installment personally. Having even completed the game with every fighter just to watch each of their stories at the end.

3.  Super Mario All-Stars
For most of us, the original NES didn't survive and Super Mario All-Stars for SNES helped us get over it somewhat. Having the first three Super Mario games, as well as a new Lost Levels. Which was really just what would be considered today as an expansion pack for the first Super Mario Bros.

4.  N.H.L. '94
Similar to R.B.I. Baseball for NES, this game became a matter of just how many goals you could score in the the elloted time. Personally, being able to trade Trevor Linden to the Toronto Maple Leafs added to the game personally.

5.  Spider-Man And Venom: Maximum Carnage
Personally it is the best pre-PlayStation Spider-Man game. Having been named after, and slightly based on what was a great comic book story, it was a shocker.

Honorable Mentions:
SimCity, Street Fighter II Turbo, NHL '95, Spider-Man And The X-Men, Kirby's Dreamland 3.

Nintendo 64 (N64)
1.  Super Mario 64
It was perfect for getting a feel for the new 3D graphics before playing the other games that followed.

2.  Legend Of Zelda: Ocarina Of Time
Never did finish the game, but was rented and played non-stop. If you have a chance, this game is highly recommended.

3.  WWF Wrestlemania 2000
It was when WWF games finally decided to go with a more "cartoon" style to the wrestlers. The characters looked like the wrestlers that they were, but didn't look awful graphics wise compared to WWF War Zone. Plus, spent countless hours creating both myself, but all the WCW wrestlers not in game. Well, as close as one could get to making them.

4.  Resident Evil 2
This game earned a spot just for the personal memory behind it. Playing the game with a friend, we played for a few hours until we got stuck on one part. Can't remember which part exactly, but remember spending hours trying to figure out what to do (this was in an age where they internet existed, but wasn't as easily accessible as it is now). Finally giving up and going home, only to almost immediately figure out what we were supposed to do.

5.  WWF No Mercy
See #3 WWF Wrestlemania.

Honorable Mentions:
WWF Attitude, Mario Kart, The Legend Of Zelda: Majora's Mask, WWF War Zone, and Donkey Kong 64.

For NON-GEEKY NERDS ALL-TIME FAV VIDEO GAMES PT.2 click HERE!!

NON-GEEKY NERDS ALL-TIME FAV VIDEO GAMES PT.2

Didn't game too much with the original PlayStation and X-Box, so the lists are generally less descriptive and shorter than the others (in the Honorable Mentions part at least). But, the games listed were heavily enjoyed, and in most cases, would still play today.

PlayStation
1.  Final Fantasy IX
Wasn't the first taste of Final Fantasy, but with the ability to play as multiple characters it was the favorite. The added touch of digging for treasure with a Chocobo, was awesome too.

2. Final Fantasy VIII
It was my introduction to the Final Fantasy franchise, and although it took a bit to figure out, it was a great game that allowed me to give the other games a chance. Even some of the "knock-offs".

3.  Spyro The Dragon
For some it was Crash, but for others Spyro was the Mario of PlayStation. Although was generally meant for the younger audience, it was enjoyed by even the older. Even if just to kill time until Blockbuster got something better in to rent.

4.  Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace
Majority of the movie adaptation video games suck. This one wasn't great, but at the time felt better than the rest.

5. Twisted Metal III
It was either this or Gran Turismo, since this one didn't cause total frustration due to lost memory cards and inability to upgrade licenses, we went with the automobile fighting game. It wasn't a great game, but would like to see how things would look in a PS3 or PS4 setting.

Honorable Mentions:
Gran Turismo

X-Box
1.  Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic
This game was amazing. It helped that I was on a Star Wars kick at the time, but it's a style that I would like to see done in other genres. Being able to choose what side you want to be on, good or bad. Best console Star Wars game...ever.

2.  Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic II-The Sith Lords
See #1 Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic.

3.  Batman Begins
It is hard to say what this game is, it is based on the film Batman Begins, but it isn't your typical adaptation game as it had more of a unique storyline. The Arkham series blows everything out of the water, but for awhile this game was the preferred Batman game.

4.  Legends Of Wrestling
Although creating both unique (okay, myself) and wrestlers simply that didn't appear in WWE games, it was nice at the time to play as some of those characters, and against them. Big names, like Hulk Hogan and Bret "Hitman" Hart. Most notably, Bret who was still steaming from the "Montreal Screw Job" (don't forget to check out our Wrestling section).

5.  WWE Raw 2
Wasn't really that good, but it was a nice filler game before THQ gave us the Smackdown! side of things.

Honorable Mentions:
Legends Of Wrestling II, Crazy Taxi 3: High Roller, and X-Men Legends.

PlayStation 2 (PS2)
1.  Grand Theft Auto III
It was like seeing a unicorn. Okay, maybe not. But, since being introduced to this game, anything outside of wrestling games had to be like this. Free roaming, side missions, etc. Also, began the love of the Grand Theft Auto franchise.

2.  WWE Smackdown! Shut Your Mouth
Have yet to play any of the more recent wrestling games, but this had raised the bar at the time in regards to how wrestling games were made. The look of wrestlers, their moves, even the move sets had all improved in comparison to any that came before.

3.  Grand Theft Auto: Vice City
This game was truly amazing. The heavy Scarface tone of the story was great, and even the blinding glare during the daytime just added to the game. If there is one complaint, it was the advertising. Which was great with Flock Of Seagulls playing, but saying commercials were over-played on television would be a massive understatement.

4.  WWE Smackdown! Here Comes The Pain
This follow-up was simply just as good as Shut Your Mouth, but with a bit more. Countless hours spent again in the custom wrestlers department. Although I did enjoy as always playing as the actual wrestlers included in the game. Always struggle with Royal Rumble/Battle Royals though.

5.  Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
This time things took place on the west coast, and played off of movies like Boys N The Hood. Added the abilty to bulk up or trim down your character using exersise and weight training. And the ability to skydive, parachute and all. Epic.

Honorable Mentions:
WWE Smackdown! Vs Raw, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3, Spider-Man, Final Fantasy X, and Bully.

PlayStation 3 (PS3)
1. Batman: Arkham City
Arkham Asylum was amazing, Arkham City was epic. Even the lead-in comic book mini-series was good for this one. The inclusion of Catwoman made the game that much better. The DLC's could've been better though, with the exception of Harley Quinn's.

2. Batman: Arkham Asylum
Before they unleashed Arkham City, Arkham Asylum had given Batman fans the video game they have been yearning for. Although it falls behind Arkham City, the Asylum sits pretty above Arkham Origins at least.

3.  Lego Batman: The Video Game
Lego. Batman. 'Nuff said.

4.  DC Universe Online
Was my first true taste of online gaming. And it hasn't disappointed me, almost 4 years in (taking breaks at times). Even now, haven't truly dove into the game and what it has to offer. And it is FREE! Well, the basic game is. Would love for Marvel to follow suit. Yes, to make DC Characters in their version as we do from time to time in DCUO.

5. Batman: Arkham Origins
It wasn't a horrible game, it just felt as though it was missing something. Perhaps it was having to follow Arkham City. The online stuff was barely operational, assuming those who played it a lot were part of a group. But, it was quite enjoyable when there were other people playing.

Honorable Mentions:
Grand Theft Auto IV, Spider-Man 3, Lego Batman 2: DC Super Heroes.

Hoping to purchase a PlayStation 4 (PS4) in the new year, and already aching to play Batman: Arkham Knight.  Personally, hoping that they begin to develop and release more superhero video games that are similar to the Batman: Arkham series. PlayStation 4 would be a good place to start.

For more Video Games, Comic Books, Movies, TV Shows, and Wrestling! Head on over to Non-Geeky Nerd and check things out! Stay Nerdy!

THE ICEMAN COMETH!

We got our first look at the upcoming story based DLC for the video game "Batman: Arkham Origins" today via DC All Access. And as everyone predicted, the story is focused on the frosty member of Batman's rogues gallery, Mr. Freeze.

You can check out the video below, which has the "trailer" as well as a brief discussion on what else we can expect to find in the "Cold, Cold Heart" story based DLC, which is luckily in game, and not just another challenge map like the initial DLC's were. We learn that there will be a new suit for Batman helping him to battle the cryogenic weapons of Freeze and his comrades. As well as some new gadgets.

I am sure there will be on this before it is ready for download on April 22nd, 2014, but until then or until more is revealed, here is the first glance at "Cold, Cold Heart" DLC content coming for "Batman: Arkham Origins":

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WHERE'S MY GAME?

With the "Batman: Arkham" series being so successful, it is a wonder why there hasn't been more superhero games, especially DC Comics characters being given their own game. Of course, there is the argument of not wanting to milk off of Batman, but they do it all the time anyways, why not in this aspect also? Who knows, it could actually lead to a boost in popularity for some of them, or in some case expand off their current fame.

Whether it be an expansion of the Arkham universe, or a totally separate world that is all theirs. I should add I am talking more "rpg" than "fighting" games, with Injustice and others having brought us some heroes and villains from the comic book world. Here is a list of DC Comics characters who should get a solo shot at computer and console fame...

Superman

Not asking for a "Man Of Steel (2013)" version, as in some cases those games can suck, and are limited. But, the world of "Batman: Arkham" or something similar would be great. For the landscapes of course Metropolis connected via video sequence to Smallville. I'd add the Fortress Of Solitude perhaps if it wouldn't be "too much". but if all goes well I would literally shoot for the moon in the sequel. Villains are endless really, throw in some kryptonite at times for a challenge to hinder things like using the x-ray vision like we've all done at times in the Arkham series and Batman's "detective vision". All in all I think Superman could thrive in the video game world.

Green Arrow

He's somewhat reference in Batman: Arkham Origins (look closely), and the CW television series "Arrow" being popular, it may be time for Oliver Queen to bring his bow and arrow to the video game realm. The similarities between Batman and Green Arrow mean it wouldn't be hard to do. Perhaps add some first-person-view aspects for some sniper work from the shadows, and some quick fire actions for close combat, as the Emerald Archer uses more than just the contents of his quiver to fight, so again, it wouldn't be difficult I am sure. Even add Arsenal in his Speedy days, or Black Canary (a la Catwoman in "Batman: Arkham City") for support.

Wonder Woman

This may not be at the top of the priority list for the character having only really had a hit television show way back in the late 1970's. The Amazonian Princess is, however, making her big screen debut (finally) in the upcoming sequel to "The Man Of Steel" (2013). I am not sure what direction they are taking the character in the upcoming films, but in a video game scenario, I would take it possibly back to origin. Which would basically translate a Xena-like world for Wonder Woman. Perhaps even have Lucy Lawless voice the character (always thought she should've been back in the 90's). Like Superman, the challenge is to have this character "weakened" at times to add a challenge to the game, otherwise even the most difficult modes will be a walk in the park. I would save the Steve Trevor and us humans for the sequel if all goes as planned.

The Flash

Yes, another of DC Comics "big" names, but with only Batman being the lone video game hero from them, may be best to start with them. Add that he has a new series coming out soon (if you watch "Arrow" you saw the seeds be planted). Plus, with The Flash, there is the coolness of a driving game but on foot. The Flash can run as fast as he wants too, but if he isn't in control, he is going to crash. Just like driving. There has been three main speedsters, the original Jay Garrick, Barry Allen, and Wally West. The glory of this is that the only real difference between them all is appearance and character traits. Meaning they could include all three of them in one story/game to appeal to everyone who is a fan of the Scarlet Speedster. "Black Flash" and/or "Black Lantern Flash" skins are a total must for this nerd.

Green Lantern Hal Jordan

He has fallen under the "needs redemption" list, with "Green Lantern" (2011) not fairing too well in theaters. Also, there is a heavy rumor that Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson could play Green Lantern John Stewart in either the "Man Of Steel" (2013) sequel(s), or in a solo film. The video game "Green Lantern: Rise Of The Manhunters" didn't seem to get good reviews either, leaving this as Hal Jordan's shot to reclaim his spot as "top" Green Lantern...outside of the comic books of course. Also, similar to The Flash, the other Green Lanterns of Sector 2814 could be a part of the game as well. Of course, Guy Gardner would require a skin of his current Red Lantern look in my opinion. Nathan Fillion with the Hal Jordan voice work of course.

Villains

We get a taste of villainy in "DC Universe Online" and online play in "Batman: Arkham Origins", but it isn't enough. With not just the popularity of the "Batman: Arkham" series, but the massive popularity of the "Grand Theft Auto" series, it isn't hard to imagine a villains game happening. Add the fact that some villains would fit perfectly in a GTA-styled game. More aptly fitting characters would be ones like The Joker, Two-Face, Deathstroke, basically the "human" bad guys. However, with some tweeks others could work well also, but definitely Batman's rogues gallery.



There's an endless list of character who could use a successful video game to boost their popularity or in some cases general existence. And of course, other publications could use some more and/or better video game franchises. They ever make a "Spawn" game yet? Looking forward to one day playing Deadpool's as well as "X-Men: Destiny" as it has a "Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic" for X-Box kind of vibe to it.

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WHAT WAS MISSING FROM BATMAN: ARKHAM ORIGINS

Mind you everything that is listed may be reserved for the next edition of the Arkham video game series, or some of it may even play out some how in the upcoming Story DLC, even though all signs seem to point to when the Ice Man cometh. Still, incase they don't plan on  expanding off of the latest installment,Arkham Origins, taking things back before both Arkham Asylum and Arkham City, then these are the things I felt was missing from this otherwise really good game, not Arkham City good, but held its own none the less.

Catwoman

I thought cats had nine lives, and since she was a great addition to Batman: Arkham City, I figured she still had all nine intact. She is referenced within the game, but only in a conversation by some thugs within the city if my memory serves me correct. With the addition of the next thing missing, makes me think that perhaps there will be another pre-Arkham Aslum/City installment, and it will be a spin on "The Long Halloween" story arc. Which will be awesome. But, really missed being able to play as Mrs. Kyle in game, not just the challenge maps. Something that my daughter definitely missed, and wasn't as interested as she was with Arkham City rounding up 100-200x Combo's ahaha

Harvey Dent aka Two-Face

I thought for sure there would be "Vote For Harvey" or "Vote For Dent" posters all around the place, unscathed unlike in the other games. But there wasn't. And then with a certain Mister Alberto Falcone likely "pre-Holiday" in the mix I thought for sure there would be something. But no. However, like I said I am thinking a "Long Halloween" next time around and we see the Cat, and Harvey in some fashion, possibly already as Two-Face, and add the "star" of "The Long Halloween", and we would have an extra three "Wins" already at least character wise.

The Batmobile

We haven't really seen it since the first installment of this great franchise, Batman: Arkham Asylum. In Arkham Origins, the iconic vehicle is torn down and about to be built for the first time by the looks of it. There was the Batwing, but I was hoping that with the addition of the Batcave (which was a massive plus in my opinion) we'd maybe get to get behind the wheel ourselves so to speak, at least to a certain part on the out skirts, or something. Perhaps if there's a next installment, there will at least be Batmobile "drop-off" points similar to how they did with the Batwing. The streets are pretty narrow, but we've yet to set foot in "new" Gotham really, with "Wayne Enterprises" still off in the distance. I will admit however, that it wouldn't be long after they gave me control of the Batmobile that I would start wanting "skins" for the vehicle, 60's Batmobile that we all know, "Batman (1989)", etc etc ahaha

Deathstroke

Yes I know he is playable in the challenge maps, but being able to play as Catwoman in game spoiled me quick after disappointment with the lack of Mr. J like in the first installment of the hit franchise. I have found playing as him quite the challenge in those maps (hence the name right? aha) mind you, but felt there could've been a way to have him able to roam the city post credits, or exactly like his predscessor, be playable as apart of the story also, perhaps hunting down The Joker post-escape.

The Falcone's and The Maroni's

Alberto Falcone is in the game, and there is reference to his father, Carmine, and others, but there doesn't seem to be any reference of them in the game landscape wise, like there was in Arkham City. With Batman still somewhat "new to the game", and seems to be in the transition from Mobsters to Super-Villains, I thought there would still be at least visual evidence of their existence in the city. But, perhaps they will be a bigger part of the next one, like I mentioned with Catwoman and Two-Face, the Mob-Families are a big part of that story.

Martha and Thomas Wayne

With this being very early in the "career" of Batman, I was very shocked that we were left to either seek out or stumble upon the site that basically created Batman. Wouldn't this still be very much the fire that fuels him? Now, they may have been trying to get away from that, or when you come across it via the direction of the game you'll notice of all Batman's "crime investigations", he's the most aggressive for this one when he finds the criminal. Was it because he knew the victims? Or was where it happened turn up the heat? I actually liked how we could "pay respect" at the site in Arkham City, just thought it would be still there are pointed out at least.


Those were just small things for me, the game was very good. Especially with them having transitioned over to a different studio, and even the voice work was good with characters like Batman and The Joker (No Conroy or Hamel this time around). \Loved the additions of the Batcave, especially with the suit chamber, a flying villain to battle against, the small run as The Red Hood was epic for me, amongst other things. And with some complaining that it was the exact same game, the map yes, although they altered it, made bridges and roads intact, which made sense story wise also, there were new gadgets that made for some pretty cool moves within the game, and we got to see some new Villains and characters. Barbara Gordon clearly pre-Batgirl (if she exists here), Alfred Pennyworth in the flesh and there to chat with when you feel like it, Deathstroke, even a smaller level character like Anarky, who we got to see how he could possibly be a problem for Batman.

I guess "my" next obvious installment under this category would be what I think should be, mixed in with what I think will play out in what I would think, is an obvious follow-up. I would prefer "Batman: Arkham Origins II" over "Batman: The Long Halloween" or "Batman: Arkham Origins: The Long Halloween". Just sayin'.

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