The details of Modern Warfare 3 have  been unofficially leaked, according to an article in Kotaku. Activision hasn’t even  released the name  of the upcoming successor in the Call of Duty franchise. The  name, Modern Warfare 3, was part of the leak.  In recent years, the Cod franchise has been the most important franchise in gaming history. Last year’s iteration, Call of Duty: Black Ops  grossed over 1 billion dollars in revenue.

The source of the leak is questionable and Activision is not excluded from the lists of culprits. In the era of the 24 hour news cycle, PR could be the life or death of a game. THQ’s Homefront moved over 1 million units its first week following a successful ad campaign. A great way to generate some  buzz is to unofficially release details of the most anticipated title for 2011. Many of the game’s locales and multiplayer maps have been exposed in a way reminiscent of an official release. Some of the details that were leaked include(don’t worry, I won’t spoil): The single player campaign being rumored to continue after the Russian invasion of America in Modern Warfare II andSpec Ops  receiving new modes. Players can also expect more perks and modes in the multiplayer dept. With the depth of details that were leaked, is this Activision’s way of releasing details and not having to field questions concerning the game? Since the leak was  “unofficial,” this protects IW from any responsibility.  Infinity Ward’s Creative Strategist Robert Bowling clears some of the confusion up on his twitter account.

“A lot of hype & a lot of leaked info on #MW3, some still accurate, some not. To avoid spoiling the experience, I’d wait for the real reveal.”

Or maybe not. But he does concede that some of the details are true.

November is now the month for confetti and party hats, because it is unofficially Call of Duty’s birthday and fans  will line up in droves to buy Modern Warfare 3. With Battlefield 3 stealing the spotlight, this leak seems like an unofficial attempt to turn the spotlight towards Soap MacTavish. EA, like Manny Pacquiao, is challenging MW3 to the ring, but the once great champion, Activision,  has been relegated to unofficially releasing details on how great its next fight is going to be.

Well everyone, Portal 2 was released early for everyone, after a lengthy and slightly unrewarding ARG campaign that all hardcore Valve fans would have had an ear on for a while. Portal 2 is of course the sequel to the Valve tech demo Portal, which ended up being massively successful, and rightly so, it was an ingenious blend of FPS (Except you never shoot a bullet or kill anyone) and puzzles topped off with an immersing story that keeps you on your toes until the very end.

I must say, if you are one of those ten or so people who didn’t like Portal then this isn’t the article for you because, ladies and gentlemen, Portal 2 is definitely worth the hype. I played on the PS3 and have completed the single player campaign that took me 8 or so hours, this article will not spoil any twists or important information that you will come across during the game.

I’ll start by telling you that if you are expecting a ‘jump in and understand’ approach like the first game that was mainly focused on puzzles and a reasonably simple to pick up but boldly portrayed storyline then you might be surprised by the different approach that the sequel takes. It’s very much a cinematic game, more so than I’ve ever played. Ask what I was looking forward to Portal 2 for was and I’d say to get to the bottom of Aperture Science and more tough puzzles – Valve has delivered both of those things, sacrificing very little in the process.

I worried for quite a while that Portal 2 might end up suffering from the same ‘syndrome’ as PixelJunk Shooter 2 or Little Big Planet 2, and just lose a lot of what made it fun to begin with. Let me explain, LBP was a great game for people of any ages, with simple and constant puzzle mechanics that was lots of fun and compelled you to play many times and work hard on getting trophies. LBP2 on the other hand was also fun but lacked the replayability, in my opinion, because it complicated puzzle mechanics beyond the what younger players could grasp. If you tried making games with the LBP2 creator mode, you’d understand what I mean. In LBP you could make levels no matter who you were, but in LPB2 you’d have to be a rocket scientist to work out what all the motherboards and microchips meant. Something that LBP2, PJS2 and Portal 2 shared was an increase in the number of puzzle mechanics which, in the first two games I mentioned, make gameplay very vague and don’t settle to recap what you had just learnt. Portal 2 does not make that mistake though, giving you the exact amount of time to learn about a new mechanic (like Gels that repel or propel or create portal surfaces). All new mechanics have a history that you may choose to learn if you so wish, and usually have three or four chambers or tests of increasing difficulty. Conversely, no mechanic lingers too long, everything is kept fresh and interesting. Also there’s a couple of real mind bending puzzles that you hardcore portalists will enjoy.

Aesthetically, Portal 2 looks brilliant. The opening sequence of the game is jaw-dropping, as the room around you falls apart (and none of the debris ‘fades out’ to compensate for MORE debris). The destruction all the way through the game that happens right before your eyes made me stop many times and have a ‘how did/could they do that?!’ moment. It was reminiscent of when I was younger and had triggered something to happen, I’d just sit back all slack-jawed and just watch hopelessly as the incredible events unfolded. The graphics draw you into the story, making it believable and cinematic. The use of shadows in some parts of the game is a fine drawcard for Portal 2 also. Later in the game the graphics began to look more and more like Portal, but I didn’t mind because the story picks you up and throws you a mile (in a good way).

The story is worthy of Valve’s Half-Life universe, everything is just the way it should be, Chell remains mute and can only be seen through portals and all new characters only add more wonderful layers to the game. I feel that I should reiterate though, the story is unlike Portal, there are a few plots throughout the game that are played separately, so dropping in as an outsider in a later level would be confusing. But that said, when played start to finish the story is possibly even better than the original, with plot twists left right and centre. First game in a few years to make me properly laugh and also properly cry (Not ashamed to admit, it did make me cry..at the end…for a little bit). One notable segment of the game is like a live-in history book where you learn everything you’ll ever need to know about Aperture Science, GLaDOS and the other characters of Portal 2 who shall remain nameless. If you are expecting to learn lots about other things like Black Mesa or Gordon Freeman or the Combine, squash those expectations because this game has the same amount of crossover as the first Portal game. Probably the best way to describe it without spoiling anything would be a good movie sequel of the original, it’s very cinematic. If you play Portal 2 and you aren’t a crazy fan like me and you feel a little dissapointed, trust me, at the end everything is all worth it. All I’ll say about the end is that it finishes one story and begins another that will leave you thinking, ‘thank you Valve for not doing like other games do and leave the ending open for another pocket-pinching trilogy’.

I would suggest playing the single player campaign first before the co-op if you are one to keep the story arc in tact (The multiplayer happens chronologically after the single player has finished), I haven’t played any coop yet so I’m not sure how much from the single player campaign will be revealed, if valve is sensible (which they usually are) then probably not much.

So save up your pennies/dollars/rupees and grab yourself a copy of Portal 2, this game will not disappoint. If you have a PS3 I suggest you get Portal 2 for it instead of the Xbox 360 (the old news that you can play using Steam on the PS3 against PC and Mac players and with the PS3 copy you get a code for a free PC and Mac copy). And make sure you play Portal before this because there’s a lot you wont understand if you play Portal 2 first. Watch out all-other-games-being-released-this-year, Portal 2 might just be the one that bowls you all over.

That’s all I’ll say for now, please feel free to comment on this article, let me and everyone at GamerHusbands Radio know what YOU think as well because, lets be honest, everyone has an opinion.

More of my reviews/ideas/thoughts/bizarre at twitter.com/warmanator

This response was written by longtime listener and  part of the GamerHusband’s family, TigersEye. It was written in response to the article written by Alfred concerning the uproar towards Activision.

I can understand the UK’s frustration if bugs on their system are not getting fixed while other systems are…but this letter sounds like one big angry fanboy cry for attention. The letter bases itself that Activision and Treyarch are intentionally ignoring the PS3 and PC consoles based on smaller percentage of market as compared to the 360. I am sure that Microsoft purchasing exclusive license rights to DLC (where DLC comes to the Xbox system first and then other platforms later) does not help the feeling of being ignored…but these facts do not prove negligence on the company’s part.

I am sure that not every PS3 owner has experienced problems and that a small percentage of the overall population of PS3 owners are actually experiencing these bugs. And even for the ones that have experienced this problem it most likely has not been every time. My friend, who plays CoD:BO on the PS3, has said he has had some connection issues, but it’s usually once out of every 15-20 games (and during high levels of server load). And haven’t they released a few patches already attempting to fix some of the issues (thus negating the point that the companies are doing nothing to fix the PS3/PC issues)?

And to say that issues aren’t happening on the 360 is just ignorance in my opinion. The 360 has seen its fair share of bugs, glitches, and issues since the release of the game (as well as post release). There have been patches but not everything has been fixed. People have to remember that the platforms operate on different software which requires different patches or fixes…so they just can’t release a patch for the 360 and port it onto the PS3.

I will concede the point that it is possible that there is a smaller support staff for the PS3 than the 360 team. This would cause slower turnouts for fixes and patches. I am sure this does not seem fair…but it’s not illegal. When you purchase the game you are making a “As Is” purchase. There are even disclaimers that say that online multiplayer experience is subject to change. Activision could theoretically never release a patch again. There could be a potential lawsuit if the multiplayer was totally broken that nobody could play it at all, but issues like lag or hit detection are harder to take to court.

As for the threats…the letter is obviously a threat…but the terms used are not uncommon for letters of this kind. Specifically, the “must reply in X amount of time” is especially common when companies try to force any information out or invoke a response. While they can be a warning before a lawsuit is filed, they are more often bluffs.

Not to play devil’s advocate, but perhaps we don’t know how much contact has been attempted before this letter. They mention the forums and a lack of response there. It’s possible PS3 users have contacted support several times but have not had any answers. They may have very well believed this was the final resort and had to do something to get their attention. However, the writers of this letter really should reflect on what they’re saying and the tone they are saying it with.

Finally, before we blame anyone for anything maybe we should look at the gamer in the mirror? Activision believes they can release a game every year and sell millions of it despite the level of quality put into the game. We as gamers do nothing to prove them wrong. Every year we run to the store on release day and pump millions of dollars into these games. This allows Activision to validate their reason to push developers into releasing a game prematurely so they can get the sales. How many of us were outraged by how the Infinity Ward creators were treated post MW2 launch and how many vowed to never support Activision again? Empty threats when sale figures are so high. If we want games to stop being so riddled with bugs we should vote with our wallets and maybe not buy games as soon as they come out.

Dual Wielding confirmed for MW2

Bungie ushered in a whole new game play element for the Halo franchise with Dual Wielding in Halo 2; now, Infinity Ward is looking to do the same with Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2.  Robert Bowling, of Infinity Ward, confirmed this today via a Twitter post:

Just walked off stage. Crowd was amazing, went insane chanting “pick it up!” when I stumbled over Dual-wield Deagles. lol – Akimbo confirmed

Will this be a huge change to the game?  Or will it simply be added candy to what promises to be a stellar experience?

Robert’s Twitter (fourzerotwo)

Source

Rare has released some images of the re-vamp they are working on for Perfect Dark–the best game Rare has ever done (my opinion). Gamerbytes by way of NeoGAF has posted the results of Rare’s handywork when compared the original N64 visuals–and it’s looking pretty good. Personally, I’d love to see a Perfect Dark / GoldenEye double pak for $10 bucks. That would surely make up for Grabbed by the Ghoulies.

GiantBomb has a new piece up today on the upcoming Gearbox Software game, Borderlands. I have been looking forward to this game for a couple years now. I got nervous when they up and switched the entire art style mid-development, but looking at the video, I’m getting excited again.

Four player drop in/drop out co-op, millions of gun combinations based on the loot you acquire, RPG/shooter melded goodness. Borderlands. October. Give it a try!

Just in case you weren’t aware, the FEAR 2 demo went live today. I have played through it 3 times and counting…

I loved the first FEAR, and this one seems to be a mega ton more of what I loved. If the demo is any sign of what lies within the final product, FEAR folks are in for a wild ride.

Toys R Us is offering a $15 Gift Card if you buy COD5 this week. I was on the fence but now am leaning toward picking it up.

Nazi zombies! Castle Wolfenstein revisited! Videosift is showing footage of the bonus mode in Call of Duty 5, accessible when you beat the single player campaign. Much like ‘horde mode’ in the new Gears of War, waves of baddies come at you as you try and shoot them. This game just went to a must buy for me!

Players also earn money in this mode to upgrade weapons and to buy barricades, similar to Counter Strike.

As if anyone should be surprised, Bungie is trying to get more of your money. A lot more. Most of you will remember watching the “Keep it Clean” trailer a few weeks ago that was a teaser for a Halo 3 campaign add-on. It looks like the stinker news is that it is not going to be an add-on, but rather a whole separate game. A direct quote from a Bungie press release states that, “Halo 3: Recon is a standalone expansion”. This means that it is not DLC for Halo 3, but will be sold on disc in the stores. So for anyone who was saving up 1200 MS Points (space bucks), go ahead and spend them on that Hannah Montana theme that you’ve been wanting for your dashboard. The good news about this whole thing is that there is multiplayer involved. Let the teabagging commence. You can read more details about this here and here.

Tomorrow, September 23rd, Bungie is going to release Auto Update 2 for Halo 3. The major changes for players will be some new achievements and a revised ranking system. More details after the jump.

Here’s the information straight from Bungie.net:

Here’s a look at these achievements which can be earned via the Legendary Maps and Halo 3 Campaign: Vidmaster Challenge: Lightswitch (0 points) – Get to the rank of Lieutenant in any playlist in the new EXP progression system, Vidmaster Challenge: 7 on 7 (0 points) – Enter into any ranked or social playlist with 7 EXP on the 7th of the month, Vidmaster Challenge: Annual (0 points) – After 9/25/08, complete Halo on 4-player Legendary LIVE co-op, with Iron, and everyone in Ghosts, Double Double (25 points) – On a Legendary map, get two Double Kills during any ranked or social match, Poor Yorick (25 points) – On a Legendary map, get 3 Oddball melee kills during any ranked or social match, Came…From…Behind (50 points) – On a Legendary map, get 3 assassinations during any ranked or social match, Defend This (50 points) – On a Legendary map, get a flag melee kill during any ranked or social match, Flag Dropped (25 points) – On a Legendary map, get 2 flag carrier kills during any ranked or social match, Road Rage (25 points) – On a Legendary map, get 5 Warthog chaingun kills during any ranked or social match, Look Both Ways (50 points) – On a Legendary map, get a Splatter Spree during any ranked or social match.

Playlist Changes: Playlist Ratings are the playlist-level decoupling of Trueskill values (the in-game number next to your name) from Experience (the icon next to your name). You will now have a separate military rating (based purely on EXP) in each playlist. When TU2 goes live, everyone will begin at 0 EXP. This means that being a General in a Playlist is based on how many games you

*****UPDATE*****
This no longer works since they patched the game. Sorry.

This video for Rainbow Six Vegas 2 is for all the achievement junkies out there and for people like me under normal circumstances would never level up due to not playing multiplayer a lot. This video is done by the folks over at Next Gen Walkthroughs. This site is where I get a lot of my game help whenever I get stuck on games. They do walkthroughs for games like COD4, Gears of War, Halo 3, and a lot of other games. They take video footage of the best paths that they have found to get through games on the hardest difficulty. Veteran for COD4, Insane for Gears and Legendary for H3. In any case, this is a video showing how to get easy experience points so you can level up in no time on R6V2. There might be better ways to get to Elite in multiplayer but this is a pretty good way to unlock all of the A.C.E.S. classes which in turn unlocks the “Weapon Collector” achievement. Something the video doesnt mention, is that if you wait until they get on the turret before you shoot them, then you get points toward the “Assault” category. If you walk up close to them and shoot them with the shotgun or the Desert Eagle, you get points towards the “CQB” category. Enjoy.

For those of you that play the game that shall not be mentioned, here is a link to a good sized article from Bungie about the upcoming maps.