COMIC BOOK VIDEO GAMES: WHERE ART THOU?

I will admit that I don't know what goes into the whole decision process in regards as to what gets made into a video game. I am sure that there is a lot that I am completely unaware of, but like many, I can have ideas of what I would want to see come to fruition. I am mainly a comic book and wrestling nerd, and since WWE has the wrestling under control with their 2K series, I'll focus on the comic book stuff I would like to see in video game form.
Batman is tops for me, and the Batman: Arkham series was definitely something myself and others yearned for. A great comic book video game in basically all aspects. After four installments we are left wondering if there will be another Batman game, or even better, other comic book games. From the Marvel side of things, Spider-Man was doing well until Amazing Spider-Man 2 (which lacked substance for me). We know that there is another Spider-Man game in the works, but what about other Marvel characters? I thought the success of Batman and Spidey would translate into other superheroes getting at least a shot. Now, I am not talking about the various movie adaptations, I mean completely unique story like they did in the Batman: Arkham universe. We are still in the middle of a comic book movie boom, so they can still use the success of that to promote interest in the games, which again would not be movie adaptations. Skins only via DLC haha

Here are who I would like to see on the shelves one day, next to both the new and old Batman and Spider-Man video games...

Justice League

Again, not a movie adaptation, but a unique universe. If anything, they can connect it with the Batman: Arkham video game universe. This allows for more heroes and villains to make their way into the game. Both as regular game play selections and via DLC. I would somehow break the heroes down into categories, perhaps something like Human, Meta Human, Alien type of thing. This way they can say swap playing as Batman with Green Arrow, or Superman for Supergirl, etc. In summary, I basically want variety with the same style of story and game play as Batman: Arkham games.

X-Men

It would be done like it would with "Justice League". Especially the non-movie adap situation. There are enough characters within the X-Men to be separate from a Marvel Universe gathering. Can again break them into categories, as to swap people around.  The title may be X-Men, but of course X-Factor, X-Force, etc will be in there. The DLC's would be high in the costume departments of course. There would even be a bone claw version of Wolverine, even though they would never seem to break or if they did healed super quick.

Marvel Universe

I would just call it "The Avengers", but this would include basically all of the Marvel Universe. Perhaps break them down into teams as well as categories. The Avengers, X-Men, Fantastic 4, etc. The story could either cover the massive crossover stories from the comic books with their own spin on them. The Infinity Gauntlet, Civil War, etc. Since it isn't a fighting game I would perhaps avoid "Secret Wars", although that would make for a good combat game perhaps.

Spawn

Sure, he is neither DC Comics nor Marvel Comics, but I think this one has potential to be an amazing game. Visually alone would be quite the sight to see, although I am sure a suitable story would be there via creator Todd Mcfarlane.

Superman

Sure, I mentioned the Justice League in the beginning but I think Supes needs to be mastered via consoles and pc worldwide. I thought for sure that there would be a game based on the Kryptonian after the success of Batman with the Arkham series. Even with Superman leading the way in the DC Comics movieverse with "Man Of Steel" and "Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice", nothing. Is it another case of the original superhero being "too perfect"? It is hard to have him appear weak on a steady basis, but adding citizens in peril and side missions could help make things challenging.

There are others that I would like to see, such as something lightly based on DC Comics television universe via The CW. But, baby steps. In all honesty, I would settle for another Batman game. It wouldn't have to be a part of the Arkham series, but  matches or surpasses it in caliber.

For more Video Game, Comic Book, Movie, TV Show, Wrestling, and Nerd Fit! Head on over to Non-Geeky Nerd and check things out! Stay Nerdy!

The Amazing Spider-Man 2

I waited for the price to drop on this one. Which I do for anything I don't have high hopes for. The Batman: Arkham games were the only ones that I had to have immediately these past few years. I waited on Grand Theft Auto V because I didn't care for GTA IV and wanted to get it after I got a PS4. Got distracted early with the online aspect, but was good until I picked up The Amazing Spider-Man 2.

Which I am glad that I waited for a price drop. It isn't that it is an absolute atrocity, but I was expecting a lot more. The games on both the PS2 and PS3 were pretty good in my humble opinion. Although some were movie adaps, they made them their own with story and characters. The Amazing Spider-Man 2 was also an adaptation, and also tried to do things their own way, but lacked substance as well as inferior game play compared to previous Spidey games. Was it perhaps a "thrown together at the last minute because they are once again revamping the movie franchise" deal?
Positives of the game were the photo challenges, well, mainly J. Jonah Jameson's. And of course, I liked the variety of costumes that were unlockable through game play.  Although some favs were only open via DLC, which I am normally open to, but money is tight and this game isn't worth the extra cash right now. Perhaps later on as I wait to save up for a PS5 and play the PS4 games to kill time. But, perhaps not as there are still some Batman: Arkham Knight DLC's that I would still like to get, and hopefully some new games coming out would be nice.

I think I had read something about a new Spider-Man game in the works. Hopefully, it will have that slick game play feel to it. I am hoping for the same treatment in regards to the costumes, with a lot more options being available for both free and DLC. It would be nice to see some other Spider-Man related characters join the mix as playable characters. Perhaps similar to what was done in the Batman: Arkaham series where each had their own unique style. Venom, Black Cat, etc, etc.

DC UNIVERSE ONLINE RIPPING OFF PS3 USERS

It wouldn't really be an issue for "free" players, it would be more of an annoyance. A great online game, with an occasional glitch. The current glitch is one that freezes the game, causing players to reset not only the game, but systems as well. It only seems to affect those still using a Playstation 3 for their gaming, with PS4 gamers going without a hitch (glitch). This all upgrades from an annoyance, to a rip off the moment anyone spends money on DC Universe Online. From memberships, to even a purchase of a replay badge.

What makes it worse, is how there seems to be zero issues for those playing on a Playstation 4. A system, that is still somewhat "new" to the market. So, there are a variety of groups that haven't yet gotten one. Those who wait for the system to work out all of the production glitches and release "less likely to break" systems, those who simply can't quite afford one yet, and others with their own reasons. All of this is besides the point though. DC Universe Online is still offering services and items through the Playstation 3 platform, and thus receiving money through it, yet are not delivering on their end. There is almost always an issue with every update, but those are usually resolved quickly. Not the case this time around. Which is what negates the typical "just get a PS4" comments (which also begs to question; new system? Wouldn't you rather a new DCUO?)

Again, it is a great game. People wouldn't be playing it, let alone complaining about not being able to play it, if it weren't. It is basically a matter of business, and with how things are going, why would anyone want to download this game onto a PS4? The money spent by all the players on PS3 (and PC) is what made it possible for DCUO to continue onto PS4.


For more Video Game, Comic Book, Movie, TV Show, and Wrestling stuff! Head on over to Non-Geeky Nerd and check things out! Stay Nerdy!

VIDEO GAME FAMILIES

Keeping with Canada's holiday today, Family Day, here is a short list of some of the families within video games through out time. From blood relation, to families based on nothing more than love and respect. Here they are...

The Mario Brothers

(Super Mario Bros. franchise)

Have they ever given us Mario and Luigi's last name? Or is Mario's legal handle, Mario Mario? Most likely Luigi stuck in his brothers shadow. As is the case in some families.

The Lee Family

(Double Dragon)

Billy and Jimmy Lee. Or if prefer the Americanized version, Hammer and Spike. Twin brothers, who fight together, and respawn together.

The Kong Family

(Donkey Kong franchise)

We'll focus more on Donkey Kong's clan, even though everyone seems to have the same last name. First there is Cranky Kong aka Donkey Kong Sr. (DK's grandfather) and his wife Wrinkly Kong, Donkey Kong Jr (DK's father....Sr and Jr), and of course Donkey Kong himself.

The Koopa Family

(Super Mario Bros. franchise)

There would be almost no need for Mario and Luigi if not for Bowser and his crew, or Koopalings rather.


For more Video Game, Comic Book, Movie, TV Show, and Wrestling stuff! Head on over to Non-Geeky Nerd and check things out! Stay Nerdy!

VIDEO GAME COUPLES

It's Valentine's Day, and of course, we here at Non-Geeky Nerd are joining in on the the second biggest commercialized day of the year.  It could even surpass Christmas, given that V-Day isn't really a holiday (no day off? Boo-urns). Anyway, here are a list of some of the couples from video games...

Mario and Princess Peach

Not sure they have ever been officially labeled a couple per say, but how many times can one man save a girl? Either they are in love, or Mario and Peach are doing some extra curricular activity....or at least hopefully. Come to think of it, Princess Peach may get around too much. Luigi, Toad, and others risk their well being to rescue her too, and lets not forget Bowser and originally Donkey Kong's obsession with her.

Donkey and Candy Kong

Sure, they are apes. But, Candy kind of looks like a banana peeling, ape of the night. Seriously, she's just missing an un-ashed cigarette hanging from her mouth. Okay, perhaps that's too much, but she does look like a second rate Peach. But, don't tell DK that I said that. He goes...ape-crap crazy when you bash his lady.

Squall and Rinoa

Won't lie. Tend to have to google the names of Final Fantasy characters. Can't be the only one who immediately renames them all. Rinoa and Squall make the list for being NGN's first FF couple. And you never forget your first.

Pac-Man and Ms. Pac-Man

Speaking of firsts. And we all know why Ms. Pac-Man is a keeper.

Diddy and Dixie Kong

While Donkey Kong focused more on obtaining a "human" princess and Candy, Diddy found his own little spider-monkey princess in Dixie. Not sure just how....banana's over each other they are.

Sonic The Hedgehog and Amy Rose

Can only think of two possible scenarios here. Either speed is overly accepted, or it is the one time Sonic tries to imitate a turtle in more ways than one.

Link and Zelda

Can basically say the same thing as mentioned with Mario and Princess Peach. Except Zelda seems to be a one man at a time kind of gal. Got more class. Link however is a player. See Midna in "The Legend Of Zelda: Twilight Princess".


For more Video Game, Comic Book, Movie, TV Show, and Wrestling stuff! Head on over to Non-Geeky Nerd and check things out! Stay Nerdy!

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!!

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":

Stay Nerdy!

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.

Stay Nerdy!