Not-to-be-missed video games for 2008

What does the future hold for video games? You could ask Professor Trelawney, the divination instructor at Hogwarts, but she can sometimes be unreliable. Luckily, you won’t need a crystal ball to discover that there are a host of great console video games scheduled for release later this year that promise to be exciting, innovative, and lots of fun. In 2008, you’ll get to use the force, brick bad guys, bust ghosts, guide a civilization, hit the links, and get in some yoga. To play these games, you will need a memory unit (hard drive/memory card) to save your progress. Some of the titles previewed below are labeled “Rating Pending” (RP) but, upon their release, they will almost certainly be rated E (everyone, ages 6 and older), E10+ (ages 10 and older), or T (teen, ages 13 and above) by the Entertainment Software Rating Board. To find out more about this rating system, visit their Web site at ersb.org. A newly launched site, WhatTheyPlay.com, has been created to help parents make appropriate video game purchases. The site describes what you can expect when playing the game, recommended age level, and some reviews. You can also find information about forthcoming and newly released video games at Web sites like IGN.com and GameSpot.com and publications such as GamePro and EGM (Electronic Gaming Monthly). Civilization Revolution. Xbox 360, PlayStation3, DS. 2K Games. 2008. Genre: Strategy. Rating: RP. 1 player. PC gamers have enjoyed Sid Meier’s Civilization games for years. Finally, console gamers get a dedicated entry in this groundbreaking franchise. The Civilization games are all about taking control of one of the world’s historic societies and guiding it on the winding path through history. There are a number of ways to be victorious in the endeavor. You can win through world domination, amassing gold or cultural worth, reaching the space age, producing a number of “great” people, or achieving a combination of these goals. In the process, you must fend off other nations, explore the world, and build the infrastructure to a successful empire. The PC versions of the game were usually characterized by micromanagement of people and resources. This process has been streamlined for the latest iteration. While maneuvering your society to greatness, tension may run high with neighbors and you will have to defend yourself if diplomacy breaks down. Combat is played out as a glorified game of Risk. Battles begin with information on the two armies’ attacking and defending strengths. Battle then proceeds while both sides watch. Anticipate putting your management, diplomatic, and leadership skills to the test with Civilization Revolution. Expected release is June 2 for all systems except the Wii, whose development has been delayed. Ghostbusters: The Video Game. Xbox 360, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, Wii, DS, PC. Sierra. Genre: Action. Rating: RP. 1 player. The Ghostbusters movies were comedy gold in the 80’s. With Dan Akroyd and Harold Ramis penning the script for the game and most of the original cast returning, this isn’t just another attempt to cash in on old hits. The story picks up two years after Ghostbusters 2, and the busting business is booming. The Ghostbusters need to hire some extra help to keep up, and that’s where you come in. You’ll get to hunt down ghosts with the original crew as they unravel a spirited plot that threatens New York once again. Aim your proton packs at the likes of Stay Puft, Slimer, Vigo, Gozer the Gozerian, and quite a few more. There might not be another Ghostbusters movie but, with the original talent, this game may be just as good. Everyone should cross their fingers (but not the proton streams) that we see this game sooner rather than later. LEGO Batman/LEGO Indiana Jones. Xbox 360, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PSP, Wii, DS, PC. LucasArts. 2008. Genre: Adventure. Rating: E. 1-2 players The LEGO Star Wars games were unique for their tongue-in-cheek humor and mass appeal. We can expect much of the same from these two franchises as they are recreated in LEGO form. In Batman, there will be plenty of blocky baddies being bashed by Batman in this comical celebration of the caped crusader. If you’re feeling up to no good, you’ll also be able to play as villains from Batman’s extensive rogue’s gallery. The game doesn’t have a firm release date yet, but it can’t be far behind the movie expected out this summer. Indiana Jones, everyone’s favorite swashbuckling archeologist, will be released on June 3, shortly after his latest adventure hits theaters. Indy may not have the huge back story of Batman, but there’s sure to be a quirky take on his original three movies. While kids will enjoy these games for their simplicity and fun, teens will love playing through film favorites injected with a wry sense of humor. Star Wars: The Force Unleashed. Xbox 360, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PSP, Wii, DS. LucasArts. 2008. Genre: Action. Rating: T. 1 player. This game is slated to be released on September 16, and is expected to raise the bar for future games by introducing a brand new physics engine and AI (artificial intelligence). In the game, the player is cast as Darth Vader’s secret apprentice and given the task of tracking down the remaining Jedi across worlds both foreign and familiar. Digital Molecular Matter (the physics engine) promises to have materials behaving as they would in real life—wood will splinter, rubber will bend, and metal will dent convincingly. “Euphoria” (the AI) also promises a first with computer controlled characters who behave realistically and adapt to situations on the fly. Stormtroopers will flail and reach out for anything as you use the force to lift them into the air. Throw the trooper through a pillar and watch as the building succumbs to gravity. The PS3 and 360 games will likely be similar, while the PS2, Wii, DS, and PSP will offer a pared down version. The Wii is said to have some exclusive levels. Created under direction from George Lucas, this is sure to be popular with anyone familiar with the Star Wars universe. We Love Golf. Wii. Capcom. 2008. Genre: Golf. Rating: RP. 1-4 players. When the studio that created Mario Golf for the GameCube pairs with the studio that brought us Street Fighter and MegaMan, the chances are they will create a good golf game. For their first foray into sports titles, Capcom is focusing on the experience of playing golf as opposed to the rules that govern the game. You will swing the remote like a golf club, but there are also subtle nuances that set this title apart. A swing meter will help gauge the power of your shot, and golfers will be able to manipulate their shot by putting spin on the ball and forcing the ball to fade or draw. Since the game’s focus is on an authentic golf experience, don’t expect lots of cartoon characters to hit the links. The links may be the greatest departure from an authentic golf experience. Many courses will have fun themes that have you navigating odd terrain. The main characters will be mostly realistic with a variety of outfits, but you’ll also be able to take advantage of importing your Miis (digital avatars) into the game. As play progresses, you’ll be able to unlock additional characters, outfits, courses, and some of Capcom’s favorite characters. Japan has been loving this game since December, so expect to see it stateside soon. Wii Fit. Wii. Nintendo. 2008. Genre: Sports/Fitness. Rating: RP. 1 player. Wii Fit is sure to test your physical endurance. Instead of using the remote like Wii Sports, this game will come packaged with a new peripheral called the Wii Balance Board. It very accurately measures your weight and can detect slight shifts in your weight. The software will guide the player through a variety of exercises and keep track of your stats so you can see all the progress you’ve made. Some of the exercises will be fairly routine such as balancing on one leg, push-ups, or doing yoga poses. Others will be cleverly disguised as mini games. Your Mii (digital avatar) will take the field to head soccer balls, perform ski jumps, twirl hoops, and guide balls through a maze. Wii Fit has sold over a million copies since its release in Japan. It’s set to launch here on May 19.

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Nathan Huber is Children’s Services Assistant, West Des Moines Public Library, IO