Gamecenter: RPG PC and Console

Game Center Podcast is now Controller Tower

2009-05-23T08:07:00.001-07:00

Because of hosting issues, we closed down a few weeks ago. However, thanks to promising hosting opportunities GCP is now the blog Controller Tower, complete with webcomic!

Follow this address to go to the temporary site: http://controllertower.blogspot.com/

[Insert your favorite expletive here]

2009-03-13T15:40:00.000-07:00

There will be no podcast on the week of the 13th because mypodcast.com is down.

On the bright side, it says it's down because of "new software" so it may mean that it is actually working on FIXING something for once.

If it's not back up by next week, we will consider switching to blogging a news/editorial format.

Review: Dead Rising: Chop Till You Drop

2009-03-06T17:01:00.000-08:00

Developer/Publisher: Capcom, TOSE/Capcom (THQ Australia)
Genre: Zombie Comedy 3d Person Brawler
Platforms: Wii
ESRB Rating: M
We Think: 14+
Single-Player: 4 out of 10 wiimotes
Multi-Player: NA
Overall: 4 out of 10 wiimotes

Pros: Dead Rising on the Wii.

Cons: Repetitive gameplay, not scary in the slightest, no picture taking, awkward controls
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Graphics: 4 out of 10 wiimotes
Gameplay: 3 out of 10 wiimotes
Storyline: 5 out of 10 wiimotes
(Categories do not all have the same value, overall score is not an average)

Dead Rising on the wii. It sounds strange already. This is a port of the Xbox 360, but it is flawed. We will, however start with the good things. New to the game is multiple save slots, and with individual mission timers as opposed to a giant timer for the whole game, it is easier access. That's about it. For those who are new to the Dead Rising series, the storyline is decent, for a zombie comedy game, however, for most people it is a pure recycle. Honestly, it takes super repetitive gameplay, where it is actually easier (and better for you) to bypass the zombies than attack them. Also, things that sound cool on paper, just aren't that fun. Chomping out zombies with a lawnmower just looks like you touch them and they disappear. The game isn't scary either. You know where the zombies are, no jolts, no wondering if you should open the door. Sure there is your ridiculously small health bar, but that's just the fear of dying, which is present in any combat video game. Add to that awkward controls, no wiimotion controls, and what could have been the saving grace of the game but they did not input, no picture taking, and you have a ridiculously boring zombie title. Lets hope the next Resident Evil or Silent Hill is better.

No podcast on the week of the 6th

2009-03-06T17:00:00.001-08:00

Sorry, physically could not do it this week.

On the bright side, there is a Dead Rising: Chop Till' You Drop Review!

Review: Deadly Creatures

2009-02-28T08:16:00.000-08:00

Short List:
Developer/Publisher: Rainbow Studios/THQ
Genre: 3D Platformer
Platforms: Wii
ESRB Rating: T
We Think: 11+
Single-Player: 8 out of 10 wiimotes
Multi-Player: NA
Overall: 6 out of 10 wiimotes

Pros: Great mechanics, Optional gravity is amazing

Cons: It gets repetitive, Zorba hates 3D platformers

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Graphics: 8 our of 10 wiimotes
Gameplay: 6 out of 10 wiimotes
Storyline: 8 out of 10 wiimotes
(Categories do not all have the same value, overall score is not an average)

I must be fair about this, I will not be a good judge. I can admire the work put into this game, however, I must get one thing across. I HATE 3D PLATFORMERS! I just don't find them fun. And this game, is a 3D platformer. However, I will try to be fair regardless. The plot line is rather strange in this game, in that you are not the main character. The two main characters, are humans who are looking for Civil War gold (voiced by Billy Bob Thornton and Dennis Hooper /star power), your characters, a tarantula and a scorpion, are merely bystanders to their plotline. Which is cool I guess. One of the main pros of this game is that gravity is "optional". What I mean to say is, you can climb up almost any surface, and it doesn't get sickening or hard to control, you go from ground to wall, seamlessly. This being said, it is much lacking in the fact that it has no co-op multiplayer, which was promised while in development. All in all, if you like 3D platformers, this game is for you. If you're like me, we'll stick around for the FPS edition.

Review: Lugaru: The Rabbit's Foot

2009-02-20T16:10:00.000-08:00

Short List:

Developer and Publisher: Wolfire Games
Genre: 3rd Person Brawler
Platforms: PC, Mac, Linux
ESRB Rating: N/A
We Think: 12+
Single-Player: 9 out of 10 keyboards
Multi-Player: N/A
Overall: 8.8 out of 10 keyboards

Pros: Great gameplay for only 20 dollars. Playing styles are varied (you be stealth, all out, etc.). Amazing physics engine with realistic fighting.

Cons: So-so graphics, some "levels" feel like they should just be cutscenes.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Graphics: 5 out of 10 keyboards
Gameplay: 10 out of 10 keyboards
Storyline: 8 out of 10 keyboards
(Categories do not all have the same value, overall score is not an average)

An amazing entry by indie developer Wolfire games, it has some of the best physics and gameplay in the gaming world to date (And definitely for its price category). In it, you take control of Turner, an anthropomorphic rabbit that goes out to avenge his destroyed village. While the graphics are not the greatest, it is well made up for in the gameplay, which feels very realistic, employing a more strategic combat system based more on parries and blocks than your standard button mashing and combo churning, and is more reminiscent of traditional martial arts. You can also use an assortment of weapons, like daggers (which you can also throw) swords and staves. Overall, it is definitely worth the mere $20 you have to pay for it, and would still should the price have been $50 (but it isn't, lucky you).

Review: Tenchu Shadow Assassins

2009-02-13T16:36:00.000-08:00

Short List:
Developer/Publisher: Acquire/Ubisoft
Genre: 3rd Person Brawler (Stealth focus)
Platforms: Wii
ESRB Rating: M
We Think: 13+
Single-Player: 8 out of 10 wiimotes
Multi-Player: NA
Overall: 7 out of 10 wiimotes

Pros: Awesome Stealth Action, Good Graphics for a wii title, relatively good dual plot line, missions are there for when you are short on time.

Cons: Levels can be frustrating. Can only hold 3 items at a time.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Graphics: 9 our of 10 wiimotes
Gameplay: 7 out of 10 wiimotes
Storyline: 8 out of 10 wiimotes
(Categories do not all have the same value, overall score is not an average)

The first game in Nintendo's campaign to bring hardcore gamers to the wii, it is a fairly good start. In the game, you take the roll of the ninja Rikimaru (later Ayame when you unlock her after level 4), who is a master of stealth. Unfortunately, that's the only thing he is a master at. One of the main features (some may say drawbacks) of this game is that it is 99% stealth action (if you are holding a sword you can do a melee minigame, but it isn't very fun, and is not meant in any way to be your main form of combat). Focusing on shadows, the game's graphics are good for a wii title, failing only when characters are talking (their mouths still move like they are speaking the original japanese, with the exception of the cutscenes) and when people catch on fire (ironically, these were some of the things in COD 5 that looked the best). You also get a giant arsenal of items and weapons, from shuriken to swords to bombs to even a cat and a fishing rod! Unfortunately, you can only carry 3 at a time, limiting the fun you could possibly have with them. The plot line is fairly good, revolving around a member of daimyo Toda's (the lord whom you serve) being kidnapped, and you having to retaliate, but with several twists along the way. The main drawback of the game however, is that it can be very frustrating, and you will have to repeat a level several times before you can beat it, let alone master it and get a higher score on it. The game also allows a second form of playing in the form of missions, which play like short term goal oriented fast levels for when you are short on time, and you can unlock more by progressing in the single player.

Overall, this game is not a must have, but it is certainly worth a rent until you can beat it.

Podcast is Early

2009-02-03T17:11:00.000-08:00

The podcast on the week of the 2nd of February will be on Thursday at 5:30 instead of the regular time. Sorry for the inconvenience.

No podcast the 30th

2009-01-30T17:14:00.000-08:00

Sad to say, there is no podcast this week, as everyone is either busy or has computer-is-broken-a-titis, our discussion of the console war will continue next week. On the plus side, there wasn't that much news this week anyway.

There is the Mario Kart Wii review below.

Also, if you haven't caught the first episode of the Console War series of episodes, you now have time to check that one out first!

Review: Mario Kart Wii

2009-01-28T18:48:00.000-08:00

Short List:
Developer/Publisher: Nintendo EAD/Nintendo
Genre: Racing (Comedy)
Platforms: Wii
ESRB Rating: E
We Think: 5
Single-Player: 7 out of 10 wiimotes
Multi-Player: 7 out of 10 wiimotes
Overall: 7 out of 10 wiimotes
Online Speeds: Very Good

Pros: Furious mario kart action on the wii! Great online play!

Cons: Doesn't grab attention. Other than the wii wheel (which can be annoying at times) nothing much special is in this version.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Graphics: 9 our of 10 wiimotes
Gameplay: 7 out of 10 wiimotes
Online Quality: 6 out of 10 wiimotes
Multiplayer: 6 out of 10 wiimotes
(Categories do not all have the same value, overall score is not an average)

Mario kart wii was supposed to be great. I guess it is, but it just feels like a report of the old games. It adds literally no new material other than the wii wheel (which can be annoying and unresponsive), all the karts feel the same, even the bikes. On the good side, the imported tracks have improved graphics (unlike the dreadful pixelized ones in the DS version), and online play is a plus. However, the online ranking system is a bit odd (why can't it just be that there is a 1st place, 2nd place and so on as opposed to an arcane point based system). Finally, as I said before, it adds almost nothing new to the mix. The N64 version had better graphics than ever and joystick controls, the Gamecube version had the double karts (which weren't great, but weren't as bad as they are thought to be) as well as special items (which I loved absolutely), whereas the DS mode was the first with online play, as well as having far superior graphics to the other portable titles. However, while I am trying to like MK wii, it just feels stale, and it doesn't grab my attention. Still, it's a good title if you love racing (I don't), and is definitely worth having around for any parties.

Review: Master of the Monster Lair

2009-01-18T15:16:00.000-08:00

We will now be using a new format with individual rankings for aspects of the game as well as overall rankings. Enjoy!

Short List:
Developer/Publisher: Global A Entertainment/Atlus
Genre: Dungeon Crawl RPG (With RTS Elements)
Platforms: NDS
Rating: E10+
We Think: 8+*
Single-Player: 7.8 out of 10 sore thumbs
Multi-Player: Not Screened, minimal
Overall: 7.8 out of 10 sore thumbs

Pros: Hilarious dialogue, catchy Japanese music, RTS elements mixed with classic dungeon crawling
Cons: Fights are rather simple and can get repetitive. Boss battles can be frustrating. Not much in the way of being able to choose your future like in a RPG like Fallout

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Graphics: 8 out of 10
Gameplay: 6 out of 10
Plot and Dialogue: 9 out of 10
(Categories do not all have the same value, overall score is not an average)

A hilarious entry for the DS, it combines witty writing, hilarious plot, and Zoo Tycoon style RTS development to your classic dungeon crawl, this game becomes a must for any RPG fan with a DS. In it, you play as Owen, a 12 year old boy looking for a job, that instead finds a magic talking (but cowardly) shovel, and now that it is bound to him, he must create, and then delve into a dungeon to save the kingdom, while bringing publicity to his home town. Throw in a Magic Shop vendor that only thinks about food, furniture vendors that carry items like hell gates and unholy altars, a greedy mayor that rationalizes everything by saying it's for world peace, a (very pushy) best friend since little/love interest character, and a little girl that sings songs about world conquest in the town square and you're good to go! It boasts better than average graphics for the DS but is mired down by somewhat repetitive gameplay that is always either frustrating or too easy. Also, is the lack of your choices in game having any impact on your character in the way that other RPGs like Fallout or Fable do. However, if you're just in it for hilarious plotlines and amazing dialogue, step right up, as this will be the game you're looking for.

*Children under the age of 10 may not enjoy this game because of lots of reading involved and subtle humor.

No podcast on the 9th

2009-01-09T17:01:00.000-08:00

No episode this week /facepalm

Everyone was invited to a dinner party except the viewers, and there wasn't enough time beforehand

On the bright side there is the Call of Duty 5 review below along with the fact we may be able to run a skypecast next time!

In the meantime, here is next week's podcast artwork

Review: Call of Duty 5

2009-01-09T16:38:00.000-08:00

Developer/Publisher: Treyarch/Activision
Genre: WWII Shooter
Platforms: Wii (screened), PC, X360, Ps3, PS2, NDS
Rating: M
We Think: 12+
Single-Player: 8.2 out of 10 wiimotes
Multi-Player(local): .1 out of 10 wiimotes
Multi-Player(online): 9.3 out of 10 wiimotes
Online Speed: Good
Overall: 9 out of 10 wiimotes

Pros: Great Single-player, Dynamic plot line, Explosive online multi-player
Cons: No zombie mode, no split-screen, no online communication (as of now), so-so graphics, no cool wiimote movements like in Medal of Honor: Heroes 2, Some places in the game are historically incorrect in some ways or are mispronounced

The 5th installment in the Call of Duty series, and the 2nd by Treyarch, Call of Duty explodes right off into your face with a great opening single player. The single-player, which feels like a real story, follows Pvt. Miller in the US Pacific Theater and Pvt. Dmitri Petrenkov of the Red Army in the Soviet Theater of WWII alternatively, switching between them every few levels, the Pacific theater going through Makin Island, Peleliu, and Okinawa, and the Soviet theater including Stalingrad, Seelow, random German countrysides, and final levels in Berlin and storming the Reichstag. However, the iconic death cards, split screen multiplayer and zombie mode have all been removed from the wii version. They are replaced by a lackluster SINGLE SCREEN 2 player, which is horrifying and nauseating. Also you would think that with an arsenal including Flamethrowers, Bazookas, Tanks, Snipers, Rifle Grenades, AA guns and Molotov cokctails, you can't go wrong right? Wrong. The weapons lack the fun wii motion movements of MOHH2, and all feel exactly the same. A remedy however is the AMAZING online multiplayer, which explodes in flurries of action and is endlessly entertaining. Overall, COD5, while not as good as it could be on the Wii, is definitely one of the must haves going out of 2008.

No podcast the 19th or 26th (of December) or the 2nd (of January)

2008-12-19T15:07:00.000-08:00

Zorba is out of town. Happy Holidays.

Review: Brothers in Arms Double Time

2008-12-13T11:13:00.000-08:00

Developer/Publisher: Gearbox Software and Demiurge Studios/Ubisoft
Genre: Strategic shooter
Platforms: Wii
ESRB Rating: M
We Think: 12+
Single Player: 7/10 wiimotes
Multiplayer: N/A
Overall Score: 6.5/10 wiimotes

Pros: Two games for the price of 1, levels feel different, shooting action is good coupled with strategic RTS features

Cons: Graphics are so-so, some levels are very frustrating, no multiplayer.

The Wii port for the games Brothers in Arms: Road to Hill 30 and Brother's in Arms: Earned in Blood, you take up as Sgt. Baker as a squad leader in the 101st Airborne on D-Day. It is true to the mixed approach that the Xbox versions of the game had of blending RTS and FPS elements into one game, making for exciting and varied battles. However, it falls short with its lack of multiplayer, and its often frustrating, singleplayer, however, this is mitigated by the fact that it is two games for the price of one. Overall, worth a rent, though there isn't really enough replay value for a buy.

Early Podcast on the 12th

2008-12-11T17:54:00.000-08:00

The podcast this week will be aired at 4:30

Sorry for the inconvenience

$&@#^@ing mypodcast.com!

2008-11-22T15:01:00.000-08:00

Okay, something seems to be wrong in mypodcast.com. I uploaded this week's cast, but our xml feed broke, so it won't come through iTunes feedburner or any other source.

You can still get the cast directly here:

Blame mypodcast.com for any inconvenience

EDIT: The problem appears to be fixed, please report any bugs to me.

Review: de Blob, Paint it Colorful!

2008-11-14T17:41:00.000-08:00

Developer/Publisher: Blue Tongue/THQ
Genre: Action
Platforms: Wii, DS (not released yet)
ESRB Rating: E
We Think: 6+ (Requires reading)
Single Player: 7 out of 10 wiimotes
Multiplayer: 6 out of 10 wiimotes
Overall Rating: 7 out of 10 wiimotes

Pros: Fun fast gameplay, colorful, funky soundtrack

Cons: Gets repetitive, multiplayer could've been a lot better

Throwing a blob of ink is what this game feels like. Energetic, lively, and ultimately repetitive. In the game, you take the place of a blob of paint, part of the Color Underground, who has to paint the landscape of the resort, which he calls home, after the evil INKT Corporation turned everything to monotone bleakness. It has some real nice touches, including the fact that the soundtrack bends around your in game actions. If you paint things, there's a sax solo, if you attack something, there's a snare. It showed a lot of promise, however, the single player can get repetitive rather quickly, though that is stymied by extremely fun side missions. The multi-player has a few modes, which basically involve out-painting the other players. They could have been great, like a Boom Blox, but they show up remarkably secondhand. A good rent, fun for a little, de Blob should not be ignored quickly, but not much of a buy.

No cast on Halloween

2008-10-31T15:47:00.000-07:00

Due to the fact that repeated doorbell ringings messes with Zorba's mojo, there will be no cast on the 31st of October

Review: Urban Terror

2008-10-25T11:12:00.000-07:00

Developer/Publisher: Silicon Ice Development/Frozen Sand, LLC
Genre: First Person Shooter
Platforms: PC, Mac, Linux
ESRB Rating: M*
We think: Blood and Gore turned off: 10+, Gore turned off 12+, Blood and Gore on 13+
Single Player Rating: NA
Multiplayer Rating: 8/10 mice
Online Quality: Good, Central
Overall Rating: 8/10 Mice

Pros: Free to download, legal, fast paced shooter with many modes, no Punkbuster
Cons: Old graphics, some game modes are hard to find games for, no bots, offline play limited to LANs, many cheaters in the form of wall-hacks and aim-bots

An old school fast paced shooter from the Counter Strike era, it still holds it's own in the market today, largely because it is free. While lacking in offline single player play and bereft of plot other than terrorists/yakuza vs. SWAT teams, it boasts several different multiplayer modes that feel like a different game every time. The modes are Team Death Match, in which whichever team gets the most kills wins, Capture the flag, Survivor (a last man standing game), Team Survivor, Capture and Hold (a Battlefield style mode) and (my favorite) Bomb, (a counter-strike style mode). Overall, this game is DEFINITELY worth downloading.

*As this is a free downloadable game and was never sold in retail, ESRB has not rated it. However, it was based off the engine of a rated M game, and has violence and gore levels equal to other rated M games.

Zorba's Gamefly Queue as of 10/22

2008-10-22T11:17:00.000-07:00

At Home: Brothers in Arms Double Time Wii

Wii Music Wii
Master of the Monster Lair DS
Spider Man Web of Shadows Wii*
Guitar Hero World Tour Wii*
Bond 007: Quantum of Solace Wii*
Star Wars The Clone Wars: Lightsaber Duels Wii*
Rock Revolution Wii*
FaceBreaker KO Party Wii*
Tomb Raider Underworld Wii*
Need for Speed Undercover Wii*
Skate it Wii*
Castlevania Judgement Wii*
Rock Band 2 Wii*

Review: Star Wars: The Force Unleashed Wii

2008-10-20T15:36:00.000-07:00

Developer/Publisher: Lucasarts/Krome
Genre: Star Wars 3rd Person Brawler
Platforms: Wii (screened) Xbox360, Ps3, Ps2, NDS, PSP, iPod Touch, iPhone, cellphone N-Gage
ESRB Rating: T
We Think: 10+
Single Player Rating: 9.5 out of 10 wiimotes
Multiplayer Rating: 5 out of 10 wiimotes
Overall Rating: 7 out of 10 wiimotes

Pros: Awesome singleplayer with epic ragdoll
Cons: Lackluster Multiplayer, unresponsive controls and so-so graphics

The Force Unleashed is an odyssey into one of the least covered sections in the Star Wars universe, that between Episodes III and IV. In it, after a quick tutorial as Darth Vader, you take the role of his new apprentice, codenamed Starkiller. With a relatively good plot and voice acting, the characters are interesting making this more than a hack/slash with the Force.
The Force is probably one of the most interesting aspects of this game, in which you are unbelievably powerful, being able to send a common stormtrooper flying across the map with a meager Force Push. Force powers are also fun to use, as they incorporate innovative Wii controls. However, some of the more powerful abilities are hard to trigger or unresponsive, which is the singleplayer section's only major drawback, other than mediocre graphics. However, the main problem with the game is it's awful multiplayer, where force lightning is just grotesquely overpowered, leading to boring matches of "who can press the C button first".

Overall, this game is immensely appealing in singleplayer with replay value, so consider buying it, even though a rent should suffice to beat the game.

Book Review: The Last Wish: Introducing the Witcher

2008-10-14T12:02:00.000-07:00

Author: Andrzej Sapkowski
Genre: Dark Fantasy
We think: 14+ for Violence, strong language, and sexual references
Overall rating: 8 out of 10 flashlights

A collection of short stories by Andrzej Spapkowski translated to English from Polish, these stories are the basis for the hit game The Witcher. It takes place in a world overrun by monsters, in which the Witchers, including our hero Geralt, must fight them and avoid becoming monsters themselves. It takes the mantle of dark fairytale; every story has a seed of a fairytale in it, for example, a Genie in a bottle story, however, the actions of the characters are far more realistic, not in the sense of less magic, but that people act more like reality, and less courtly. Rife with strange ironies and dark humor, as well as action horror and romance, this book is a good buy.

Review: Madden 09 All-Play

2008-10-13T17:55:00.000-07:00

Developers/Publishers: EA Tiburon/EA Sports
Genre: Sports (Football)
Platform: Wii (screened), Xbox360*, PS3*, PS2*, PSP*, NDS*
ESRB Rating: E
We think: 4+
Single-Player Rating: 6 out of 10 wiimotes
Multi-Player Rating: 8 out of 10 wiimotes
Overall Rating: 7.5 out of 10 wiimotes

Pros: Great Football simulation, easier for inexperienced players to play

Cons: Online play isn't the same as being in the same room as someone else and is lacking, extra features don't add much flavor.

It's Madden! Again. Again. Again, Again, Again... Well, there isn't much new but it is executed well. The main new things in this edition particularly in the wii version are All Play mode, a mode in which it is easier for pick up games with people that don't know how to play well. There is also a cooler hot route mode using the wiimote as a pointer of where you want your player to go. However, with the exception of the party mode, which is a multiplayer mode anyway, the special features don't add much flavor to the game. You will play it twice by yourself, and after that it'll be only multi-player. Worth buying only if you have people to constantly play with, as the internet play is not that good.

*Please
note that the version for these platforms is Madden NFL 09, not Madden NFL 09 All-Play, so the features will be different.

Review: Lego Batman

2008-10-02T16:45:00.000-07:00

Publisher/Developer: Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment/Traveller's Tales
Genre: Puzzle/Action
Platform: Wii (screened) DS, PS2, PSP, PS3, Xbox360, PC
ESRB Rating: E10+
We Think: 6+*
Single-Player Rating: 8.5/10 joysticks
Multi-Player Rating: 9/10 joysticks
Overall Rating: 8.7/10 joysticks
Pros: Cool puzzles, villains are awesome, many problems from previous versions fixed
Cons: Point of perspective can be annoying, Not much use of the wiimote

Lego Batman is another great installment in the lego (chain? series? watchamacallit?) line of video games, incorporating the cute fighting action and tricky puzzles that classified the first games as well as fixing some multiplayer problems. Not much in the way of plot, it's really just an excuse to fight bad guys (or good guys) and solve puzzles. There's a lot of replay value, as it is VERY hard to unlock everything. The multi-player has a nice "drop in whenever feel", in that you can swap players in and out whenever you want. One of the major problems of the previous lego games was that if you tried to walk in a certain direction, and your partner didn't want to, you would run into an invisible wall until he catches up, but this has been fixed in this version. My main (and only really) complaints are that the AI is sometimes not always smart enough to help you complete puzzles (as in simultaneously as you pushing a button) that there are some places where due to camera angles, it is very hard to tell if you will land on a narrow bridge or fall to your death, and that it's harder to find your way around the Bat Cave and Arkham Asylum (your mid-level hideouts) than it was to get around the Mos Eisley Cantina. Overall a very good game to add to your library.

*Disclaimer: Largely inoffensive, however children and teens may become frustrated with more difficult puzzles

AAAAAAAGGGGGGHHHH

2008-09-27T10:39:00.001-07:00

Our xml line broke again. Please download off of www.gamecenter.mypodcast.com for the meantime.

Problem fixed we think. Please mail any more problems downloading our most recent episode: "18: Video Game Citizenship" to www.gamecentercrew@gmail.com

Logo Tournament!

2008-09-27T09:44:00.000-07:00

Mail us at gamecentercrew@gmail.com to and type in the number and codename of the potential logo you like the most! Polling ends Friday, the 3rd of October at 8:00 EST. Feel free to leave comments too, but those votes won't count unless you mailed us.

#1 Blue Green

#2 Combined

#3 Classic

#4 Buttons

#5 Grayscale

Interview with Rob Heinsoo!

2008-09-22T18:03:00.000-07:00

I am very pleased to announce that we will be interviewing Rob Heinsoo, one of the co-writers of the 4th Edition Dungeons and Dragons Player's Handbook, on the weapons in this new edition of the game. As a consequence of this, I, Zorba, will do the interview alone, and then I will record the rest of that week's show on Friday as host only (see the host list earlier on in this blog).

Zorba out!

Review: Spore Creatures DS

2008-09-20T15:43:00.000-07:00

Note: We have now switched to an out of 10 format. Hope you like it more!

Publisher/Designer: EA/Will Wright
Genre: RPG
Platform: DS
ESRB Rating: E
We Think: 8+
Overall Rating: 7/10 joysticks
Multiplayer: Special, see rest of review, not screened

Pros: Cute, E rated RPG, It's SPORE!
Cons: Not much in the way of story, not as deep as spore, and by the end of the game, your character will just look like a rolling ball of body parts, terrain walking underpowered

A cute game that is an offshoot of spore, I at first did not know what to think about it. It is a sort of RPG lite, with not many story elements, but with leveling up/character customization features, and suitable for younger players. The graphics are a cute Paper Mario esque 2D, but there are no body slots on your character, so he will look like a melting pot of body parts by the end. Also, body parts that let you walk over certain dangerous parts of land are costly and underpowered. Overall, it is fun and diverting, though not too serious. There is not much multiplayer, just the ability to share creatures with other copies of the game. I personally liked it, as it is good for a DS game. While not as ambitious as Spore, it is a good rent, and a decent buy.

Review: N+

2008-09-08T18:12:00.000-07:00

Publisher Developer: Atari/Silver Birch Studios
Genre: Arcade
Platform: DS (Screened), PSP, Xbox Live Arcade
ESRB Rating: E
We Think: 7+
Singleplayer Score: 2/5 joysticks
Multiplayer not screened for review
Download Play: No
Online Play: Not Screened for Review

Now I will start by saying that I feel like I need to give this game a good review. It went all the way from humble flash game, to cult sensation, to minor-league platform game. However, when I ask myself the deep question: "Did I have fun playing this", the answer is no. The gameplay and graphics were as expected, however, much like the flash game, it is very frustrating and mind-numbing. It offers almost nothing to the plate not in the flash game, other than a very limited level creator and is just not worth $30. Now, I admit I did not play the multi-player, however, I doubt that it would have brought enough to save this game.

Free Game Review: Mud and Blood 2

2008-09-03T17:54:00.000-07:00

Websites: Kongregate (please tell us if you find it somewhere else)
Genre: Strategy
We think Appropriateness: 12+ for blood and swearing
Rating: 4.8/5 Soda Cans

Boring at first, gets really addictive soon enough once you understand the game. You have to keep german troops from getting accross the map by using fortifications and strategic maneuvers.

tips: Order of use for command points
1. Engineer
2. Fences
3. Mine Field
4. Grenades for everyone
5. Trench
6. Corpsman (medic)
7. Sniper or Machinegunner (sniper for maps with lots of cover, machinegunner should build bunker first)
8. Grenades
9. Signaler
10. We have not gotten this far.

Review: Final Fantasy IV DS

2008-08-29T16:32:00.000-07:00

Publisher/Developer: Square Enix/Matrix Software
Genre: Japanese RPG
ESRB Rating: E10+
We think: 10+
Score: 2.5/5
Multiplayer: None

I honestly was expecting more when I rented this. I was hoping for a solid piece of RPG. What I got was a bunch of cruddy controls, bad use of the touch screen, canny dialogue, and harsh saving rules. Let's start at the top: While the graphics are impressive for the DS, the combat system is dreary, just pressing a button or the touch screen every 15 seconds or so. That means that half the game you are waiting. There is also almost NO use of the touch screen, which is about the only thing that keeps the DS above water. Now, while it has a good plot, the dialogue (0r at least the translation) is a collection of the phrases that you've heard in every game/movie/book (the "insert name here" I know is no coward. A king who orders this is no king of mine). Now the saving rules are also a disaster. There are very few places where you can actually save your game. Instead you have a meager "quicksave" option, which forces you to shut down after you do it, then deletes the save when you boot up. I mean, it's an RPG (read: Game in which you die a lot) for crying out loud.

It hasn't come out yet in Europe, so I can say this to anyone that reads this that lives there: CANCEL YOUR PRE-ORDERS!

Free Game Review: Chronotron

2008-08-27T16:44:00.000-07:00

Website: Kongregate (Please mail us if you find it on other sites)
Genre: Puzzle
Developer: Scarybug Games
Rating: 3.7/5 soda cans

Fun diverting puzzle game about a time traveling robot. Has a sense of humor. Very diverting, gets very hard later on in the levels.

Book Review: Game Boys: Professional Videogaming's Rise from the Basement to The Big Time

2008-08-22T16:06:00.000-07:00

Author: Michael Kane
Rating: 4/5 pages
Appropriateness: 12+ for drug content, video-game violence, and strong language

A very solid read about professional Counter-Strike players, the leagues, and all about the underground gaming culture. One cool thing about the book is that it presents the two main teams (3D and CompLexity) in complete unbiased fairness, so you can choose who to root for. All in all worth buying, whether you play video games or not.

Top Spin 3

2008-08-22T15:55:00.000-07:00

Developer/Publisher: 2k Sports
Genre: Tennis, Sports
Platform: Wii (Reviewed) Xbox 360, Ps3
ESRB Rating: E
We Think: 4+
Multiplayer Rating: 3/5 joysticks
Single Player Rating: 1/5 joysticks
Overall Rating: 2.2 joysticks
Online: None

When I heard of this game, I was excited of a tennis game on the wii. However I was sadly disappointe. The graphics are decent, but the controls are terrible. They require you to guess where the ball lands and begin swinging when the ball is at the net, which in a video game is hard to do. Also, because of those things, playing on the same team as an AI is almost impossible due to design flaws. Also there is a lack of promised online play. Fun for parties, not worth buying.

Free Game Review: The Last Canopy

2008-08-18T15:58:00.000-07:00

Developer: Easy Only Games
Websites: Kongregate
Genre: Arcade
Score: 3.4 out of 5 joysticks

A diverting and unique version of Raiden type games. Worth a few plays.

Please comment or mail us if you find this game on more sites.

Review: Battlefield: Bad Company

2008-08-13T17:54:00.000-07:00

Publisher: Electronic Arts
Genre: Shooter
Platforms: PS3, Xbox 360
ESRB Rating: T
We Think: 13+
Overall Rating 4/5 joysticks
This game is extremely fun to play with amazing graphics. The levels at some point are too hard or long, but what’s a game without a challenge? Your outlaw squad mates make the game enjoyable and funny while you are playing a serious shooting game. The last problem that I had with this game, however is that there is no local multiplayer. When my friend, such as zorba, comes over, I like to play with two controllers. However, on this game we had to play single player and switch off. As I said, the graphics are amazing, as is the storyline, which makes the games interesting and playable. Battlefield hits gold ( hint) with another amazing title, Bad Company.
- The Dungeon Master

Review: Need For Speed: Pro Street

2008-08-13T17:50:00.000-07:00

Publisher: Electronic Arts
Platforms: Xbox 360 (reviewed) PS3 , Wii
Genre: Racing
ESRB Rating: E10+
We Think: 6+
Overall 2/5 joysticks

EA brings another aspect to the Need for Speed series. I think that this game is very unrealistic and extremely similar to the game before. The drift is ridiculous and the drag is only mildly fun. The only good race is the actual main grip races. I would never have bought that game and put it aside shortly after I rented it. The multiplayer is fun once but as before the game gets extremely repetitive and boring. The graphics are okay but for a racing game not up to par. Overall, this game is not as good as some other games such as Project Gotham Racing.
- The Dungeon Master

Free Game Review: Territory War Online

2008-08-12T08:54:00.001-07:00

Playable on: Kongregate (demo only), xgenstudios.com (full game)
Type: Action, turn based, online multiplayer
By: AfroNinja
Age Appropriateness: 9+
Rating: 4 for 5 soda cans

The sequel to territory war is out! It has new maps with destructible terrain, new weapons (including limited ammo weapons) and (hold your breath) ONLINE PLAY! The lag is a bit annoying, but it's only during your opponents turn, and as it is turn based, doesn't affect gameplay much. It's about as good (arguably better) than the Worms games (see our review of space oddity), bearing in mind that the Worms series games cost $50 on average! A very solid play.

Review: Medal of Honor Heroes 2

2008-08-11T15:21:00.000-07:00

Publisher: Electronic Arts
Genre: Shooter
Platform: Wii
Price: $49.99
ESRB Rating: T
We think: 11+
Single Player Rating: 3.7/5 joysticks
Multiplayer Rating: 4/5 joysticks
Overall Rating: 4/5
Online Play: Great

Pros: Guns feel different from each other, amazing online multiplayer, fun wii-mote actions
Cons: Difficult to learn without a wii zapper addon. No local multiplayer. Secondary missions are confusing.

This game should set the new standard for Medal of Honor games. It is completely redone, and it's real fun to play. I was scared in the beginning, because it is hard to learn if you don't have a wii zapper. But with interactive and creative wii controls (aka, you pump the nunchuck to cock a shotgun, you put the wii-mote over your shoulder for rocket launcher shots), the guns feel different from each other, particularly in the case of gun emplacements. With a quick singleplayer with some replay value in the form of secondary objectives, it's fun to play by yourself. My only complaint about the single player is that it's hard to tell what your secondary objectives are. Although there is no local multiplayer, one of the main gems of the game is it's online multiplayer. With up to 32 people and next to no lag, it doesn't get much better than this. The only problem, is that due to limited communication abilities, the capture the flag multiplayer games turn into zerg-fests, so stick to deathmatch and team deathmatch. Overall the game is a solid rent, but a good buy too.

Review: Soulcalibur IV

2008-08-10T08:01:00.000-07:00

JD the DJ's Pick
Publisher: Namco Bandai
Genre: Action
Platforms: Xbox 360, PS3
Price: $59.99
ESRB Rating: T
We Think: 12+
Overall Rating: 8.5/10
Online Play: Good

Soulcalibur IV is a great addition to the Soulcalibur franchise. As in the previous games, there is a nice variety of gaming modes to choose from. The game play is the same as before with a very small learning curve. The characters have received only minor modifications, if any. Many classic characters have returned as well as some new faces including: guest appearances from Yoda (Xbox 360), Darth Vader (Sony Playstation 3), and The Apprentice (both consoles) from the new upcoming Star Wars Game The Force Unleashed. The game play is, as expected, is very good. The AI presents itself in two ways: easy with a minimal challenge or hard for experienced gamers or hard-chore Soulcalibur fans. If the AI proves not to be a challenge at all, switch over to online play. With two match types: Normal Versus and Special Versus, the online play will leave your soul satisfied and have you coming make for more. You will want to come back and show off your skills with your completely customized character or your own upgraded version of your favorite fighter. Soulcalibur IV is a great game for long-time Soulcalibur IV fans and new fans alike.

What ESRB Ratings mean:
EC: Early Childhood: Basically educational stuff 3-6
E: Everyone: 6+
E10+: Everyone 10 and up: Tween+
T: Teen: 13+
M: Mature: 17+
AO: Adults only: 18+

Online Play Categories:
Core: Most of the gameplay is in online play
Good: good online connection
Laggy: Laggy online connection
No: No online play

Free Game Review: Amorphous+

2008-08-05T18:35:00.000-07:00

Websites: kongregate.com
Type: Hack/Slash Action
Appropriateness: Developer says 13, we say 12
By: Innocous Games
Rating: 4 out of 5 soda cans

Slash different types of orbs, real fun! Also has a sarcastic sense of humor.

tell us if this game is available on other websites!

Review: Call Of Duty 4 DS

2008-07-31T15:59:00.000-07:00

Publisher: Activision/N space
Genre: Shooter
Platform: DS
Price: $29.99
ESRB Rating: T
We Think: 12+
Single Player: 3.7 out of 5 joysticks
Multiplayer: 4 out of 5 joysticks.
Overall: 4 out of 5 joysticks
DS Download Play: Limited
Online Play: No

A fun shooter for the DS, it has neither the gore nor the graphics of the console/PC versions. The storyline is slightly different, but basically you are a British agent that is fighting terrorists in Russia. The Single Player is fairly fun, with lots of different levels and missions. The multiplayer, however is the real cake. With lots of balanced guns, and neat environments, you can play the multiplayer for hours on end.

What ESRB Ratings mean:
EC: Early Childhood: Basically educational stuff 3-6
E: Everyone: 6+
E10+: Everyone 10 and up: Tween+
T: Teen: 13+
M: Mature: 17+
AO: Adults only: 18+

What our ratings mean
0 joysticks: terrible
1 joystick: bad
2 joysticks: ok
3 joysticks: good
4 joysticks: great
5 joysticks: amazing

DS Download Play Categories
Yes: Full multiplayer available through download
No: No download play available
Limited: Available, but with only some maps/weapons/modes/etc

Online Play Categories:
Core: Most of the gameplay is in online play
Good: good online connection
Laggy: Laggy online connection
No: No online play

Epic Picture

2008-07-28T15:35:00.000-07:00

Picture Zorba made.

Free Game Review

2008-07-28T14:55:00.000-07:00

Name: Kongai
Websites: kongregate.com
Type of game: Strategic Rock Paper scissors
Joysticks: 4 out of 5 stars
Appropriateness: 8+*

Collect cards, then battle with them in this game. It's actually rather deep strategy. You collect the cards by playing featured games on the website kongregate.com

*Some of the games that are featured are more bloody than that.

Review: Worms a Space Oddity

2008-07-19T12:30:00.000-07:00

Publisher: THQ
Platform: Wii
Cost: $49.99
Rated: E10+
We think: 8+
Genre: 2d Turn-based
Single Player Rating: 1 out of 5 joysticks
Multiplayer Rating: 2.3 out of 5 joysticks
Overall Rating: 2 out of 5 joysticks

This game, while it can be fun, has the problems of being hard to understand, and following into repetitiveness. The control scheme is awkward, and it has no plot, bad graphics, and cookie-cutter gameplay. On the upside it is real zany action. Then again, it's hard to tell the difference between enemies and friends. Not worth a buy or rent, try Boom Blox, reviewed below.

Game Center AvA tournament

2008-07-11T09:23:00.000-07:00

We are proud to present our first Aircraft vs. Aircraft tournament. To learn more or sign up, go to this site http://www.guildportal.com/Guild.aspx?GuildID=268749&TabID=2256632

Review: Boom Blox

2008-07-10T09:47:00.000-07:00

Zorba's Pick

Publisher: Steven Spielberg EA
Platform: Wii
Cost: $49.99
Rated: E
We think: 6+
Genre: Arcade
Single Player rating: 2.5 out of 5 joysticks
Multiplayer rating: 4.7 out of 5 joysticks.
Overall rating: 4.2 out of 5

When I first heard about this game, I was thinking, "Jenga on the wii, great". However as I started hearing other reviews, I got more excited. So finally, I ordered it via gamefly, and I was actually impressed. At it's core, it's still jenga, but with the addition of a bunch of other modes, it's really jaw-dropping. The single-player mode, is okay, but it's really just a warmup for the multi-player. There are many modes, sticking close to Jenga, or far from it. There is color jenga, where one rolls a mulit-colored die, then must pull a stick of that color. Then there is shootout mode, where you shoot point blocks to the other side of the screen to get points. There is destruction mode, where you throw baseballs at a Jenga tower, and score points when bricks fall. However, the most fun (and most aggressive) mode is castle mode. In this mode, you fling cannon balls at other player's castles, trying to knock out their jewels. Overall, this game is great for families, and worth renting for a party.

Survey...

2008-06-15T11:15:00.000-07:00

We are taking a survey to find out what our listener's demographic and wants are. Click on the link to take the anonymous survey:

http://www.podtrac.com/audience/start-survey.aspx?pubid=9gAXTs5qZnQ$&ver=standard

FIXED

2008-05-29T07:32:00.000-07:00

We fixed the problems with the podcast. However, the only way we could do it was to delete our old feedburner account. For those of you subscribed to it wondering WTF Mate? there is a link to the new version to the right of this post. Just click on the animated bar with our episode names on it.

Bubble Bubble Toil and Trouble...

2008-05-25T19:28:00.000-07:00

We have been experiencing problems getting our most recent podcast episode, "05: It's Christmas! Sort of." to feedburner podcastalley and iTunes. You can still download it off our homepage www.gamecenter.mypodcast.com

Review: Enemy Territory: Quake Wars

2008-05-13T18:43:00.000-07:00

zorba's pick: Enemy Territory: Quake Wars

Game style: FPS
Publisher: id
Platforms: PC/Mac/Linux
Price: $49.99
ESRB Rating: T
We think: 11+
System Req.: high
Single-player: 3 joysticks (out of 5)
Multi-Player: 4.5 joysticks

A tamer offshoot of the Quake series, this game comes across more like Battlefield 2142 than Quake 4. The game mechanics and controls are a lot like Battlefield, but there are more customizable kits, and missions to do inside the levels. Its strogg vs. humans in a battle for Earth. Each team is either offense or defense. The offense needs to push forward and secure different objectives in enemy territory, while the defense just needs to hold them back for about 15 minutes. This game features XP, and you gain it by doing missions like taking out turrets or by killing enemies. When you level up, you get closer to a new rank as well as gaining upgrades. There are 5 different classes, an aggressive infantry shock troop, a mechanic (repairs stuff), a medic, a scout (calls in lethal orbital strikes) and a spy (can disarm turrets as well as masquerade as enemy units). This game avoids pitfalls by making all classes capable of holding their own. Online Multi-player is the main attraction, as AI bots get tiring fast. Graphics are decent, and controls make sense, and cross platform multi-player is enabled. This is a war you'll be jumping to enlist for.

Look for zorba1994 (me) on the battlefield. You can find me most of the time in the ranked servers LB and NW, Needlefeast, and The House of Pain.

Recap: What has happened

2008-05-01T16:41:00.000-07:00

We were planning to do this in the podcast tomorrow, but zorba had an unknown pre-planned event then and cannot cast. So we'll tell you now:

Two things are changing in our podcast:

1 We will begin to feature of weekly reviews one of a free game, and one of a bought one.

2 We have started Game Center Crew clan/guild/alliance in several games. To join, just put |GCC| before your profile name for the following games:

Medal of Honor Spearhead/Breakthrough
Age of Mythology (Gameranger)
Civilization IV (Gameranger)
Battlefront (Gameranger)
Ikariam Delta Server (name of group is M16, message artorion)
Enemy Territory: Quake Wars
We will probably expand to the following soon:

Call of Duty 4 (PC)
Halo 3

Time Changes

2008-04-28T15:27:00.000-07:00

Gamecenter podcast will now be airing at the same time on Fridays due to schedule conflicts, angry parents and undone homework.

Tips for Medal of Honor Spearhead and Breakthrough

2008-04-10T15:43:00.000-07:00

I will organize this by when you should use what gun by number of hotkey for said gun. I will only address specific guns if it matters, because it usually does not.

1: Pistols
-2 varieties, normal and hi-silenced
normal: use only in singleplayer if you are at melee range with a sniper and have nothing else. In multiplayer use whenever in melee range with rifles.

hi-silenced: 1 hit kill, only in single-player. Use when stealth is needed or indoors when shotguns are unavailable.

2: Rifles
-2 varieties, normal and sniper

normal: use whenever the map features long hallways or sniper opportunities for single-player and multi.

Sniper: Only use in single player as it is too slow for multi-player. Use at long range.

3: Sub-machine guns no varieties.
Single-player: Use in multi-enemy fights in compact areas.
Multi-player: use in areas featuring semi-spacious but not wide open areas.

4: Machine guns
Single-player: use in wide open multi enemy fights. In single shot bursts to the head it is as good as a rifle.
Multi-player: Don't use due to major kickback and that enemies don't balk at shots.

5: Grenades, 2 varieties
Frag and Stielhamder: In single player throw around corners or on buildings with known enemies. In multi-player use liberally.
Gas: In single player, you will not find these often. In multi player use it so that you can hear people taking damage on approaching your position, ideal for snipers.

6: heavy weapons 3 varieties
Rocket launcher: Single player for tanks only, multiplayer use in high speed matches only.
Grenade Launcher: Only on certain maps for multi-player, use with caution.
Shotgun: Use in single-player for indoors or in multiplayer with few open spaces.

Tips for Age of Mythology

2008-04-08T18:02:00.000-07:00

Greek:
-Major Gods:
Zeus: Solid for beginners
Poseidon: Easy to defend
Hades: Challenging but Rewarding

-Minor Gods:
Always pick Hephaestus, Plenty god power is too good to pass up.

-Military
get a solid well rounded military

Egypt
Major Gods:
-Ra: Priests more powerful
-Isis: Easy to defend
-Set: More uses for Pharaohs

-Military: Focus on navy and myth units

-Economy
You do not need lumber to build

Norse
Major Gods
Odin: Good in early game
Thor: Gatherers
Loki: Powerful late game

Military: Make sure you have a lot of heroes for favor

Economy: Dwarfs are your friends

voting

2008-04-04T19:07:00.000-07:00

this week's vote
what game do you want us to talk about more
world of warcraft
call of duty 4
command and conquer 3 tiberium war
grand theft auto

also what game do you want cheats for and for what consol
just comment here

Proud Members of Centsports: free online sports bets. Click link below to sign up.
http://www.centsports.com/?opcode=48886

cheats

2008-04-04T18:07:00.000-07:00

SPOILER ALERT SPOILER ALERT SPOILER ALERT SPOILER ALERT SPOILER ALERT

Super Smash Bros Brawl
Unlock Ness:Play five matches in BrawlReflect 10 projectilesGet Ness to join your party in The Subspace EmissaryUnlock Marth:Play 10 brawlsFinish Classic mode on any difficulty level � Get Marth to join your party in The Subspace EmissaryUnlock Luigi:Play 22 brawlsBeat Classic with no continuesGet Luigi to join your party in The Subspace EmissaryUnlock Falco:Play 50 brawlsClear the 100-Man BrawlHave Falco join your team in The Subspace EmissaryUnlock Captain Falcon:Play 70 BrawlsBeat Classic Brawl Mode on the Normal difficulty setting or greater in less than 12 minutesGet Captain Falcon to join your party in The Subspace EmissaryUnlock Mario Bros. Stage:Complete Event 19: Wario Bros.Unlock Green Hill Zone:Appears after you unlock Sonic.Unlock Luigi's Mansion:Play as Luigi in three brawls.
Unlock R.O.B:Play 160 brawlsGet 250 different trophiesUnlock Lucario:Play 100 brawlsBeat Target Smash!! on all difficulty levels (Playing in either 1 or 2 player mode will satisfy this condition.)Unlock mario bros. stage:Complete Event 19: Wario Bros.Unlock Green Hill Zone(Sonic):Appears after you unlock Sonic.Unlock Luigi's Mansion:Play as Luigi in three brawlsUnlock Spear Pillar(Pokemon):Complete Event 25: The Aura Is With MeUnlock 75m (Donkey Kong):Use Donkey Kong 20 times in brawls
Unlock Solid Snake:Get Solid Snake to join you in the Sbspace Emissary.Unlock Sonic:Gets Sonic to join you in the Sbspace Emissary.Unlock Ganondorf:Get Ganondorf to join you in the Sbspace Emissary.Unlock Toon Link:After beating Tabuu go to the Forest and look for him there.Unlock Wolf:After beating Tabuu go to the Ruins and look for him there.Unlock Jigglypuff:After beating Tabuu go to the Swamp and look for her there.Unlock Hannenbow stage:Complete event 29 the on where peach makes the flowers on the right tree red.
Easy CD collecting:This is best if there are 2 players. Go to a normal brawl. Turn all the items off except the sandbag. Then slect your stage the battlefield works best. Be sure to choose a stock match so theres no time limit. You can get at least 10 CD's.

additonaly you can go to:http://cheats.ign.com/ob2/068/748/748545.html
most likly next time i will just put in the links
hope they help :-D

Sims cheats:
www.thesimresources.com

Gamecenter: RPG PC and Conosle

2008-04-04T18:02:00.000-07:00

Check out our cast at gamecenter.mypodcast.com

You will be muted promptly and we would appreciate it if you would stay quiet until then. However, you may engage in texting them over skype, and if you have something good to say we WILL put you on. You can also contact us anytime at gamecentercrew@gmail.com. If you do so you have a good chance to be read out loud on the show as long as it is not inappropriate.

Also, if there is a topic you want us to talk about, feel free to mail it to us!