Pads & Panels

#4 – Assassin’s Creed II (360, PS3)

Publisher: Ubisoft – Developer: Ubisoft Montreal

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Assassin’s Creed II is the best example one can give of a developer listening to the criticisms of its first game and addressing the problems, adding compelling elements and continuing a tradition of innovation. For an open-world game, Assassin’s Creed has purpose in all of its actions and activities, creating a sense that even when running around jumping and climbing it is all part of a larger, grander scheme. This interconnected nature lends thematic credence to Ezio and his revenge quest through Italy during the Renaissance.

The first Assassin’s Creed was a successful title that sold extremely well, but turned out to be a polarizing game, dividing its audience for a number of reasons. It is a testament to Assassin’s Creed II that it can easily bring back the wayward souls that abandoned the first title and create passionate fans who will anticipate the inevitable third game. Assassin’s Creed II is a stunning achievement that should not be missed. –John

And the “Best DLC of 2009” is… (more…)

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Title: Grand Theft Auto IV: The Ballad of Gay Tony

Platform: 360

ESRB Rating: M

Publisher: Rockstar Games

Developer: Rockstar North

Review by: Dan Braun

Approximately one and a half years ago, Grand Theft Auto IV was released to almost universal praise amongst the gaming community. Despite this, some hardcore fans of the series felt that the game took itself too seriously and focused on the mundane and realistic, instead of showcasing the over-the-top (and often ridiculous) action and activities that have made the franchise so popular. For those who need the extreme, The Ballad of Gay Tony is a much lighter and more explosive foray into Liberty City that should have all GTA fanatics cheering for more. (more…)

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