http://auth.gamespot.com/ Gamespot's Everything Feed! News, Reviews, Videos. Exploding with content? You bet. en-us Sat, 15 Mar 2014 07:14:09 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/articles/sony-raising-ps4-price-in-canada/1100-6418329/ <figure data-align="center" data-size="large" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/1535/15354745/2455204-8554789769-24258.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2455204" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/1535/15354745/2455204-8554789769-24258.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2455204"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/1535/15354745/2455204-8554789769-24258.jpg"></a></figure><p style="">Sony has announced that it is raising the price of the PlayStation 4 in Canada from CAD $400 to $450 in order "to respond to changes in the market environment." The higher price is effect starting today.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">"The PlayStation 4 computer entertainment system delivers phenomenal play experiences that will shape the world of games for years to come and has quickly become the next gen console of choice with gamers in Canada," Sony said in a statement. "To respond to changes in the market environment, the price of PlayStation 4 will be revised from CAD $399.99 to $449.99 MSRP [manufacturer's suggested retail price]."</p><p dir="ltr" style="">Sony didn't say that it changed the price because of the declining value of the Canadian dollar compared to the American dollar, but at the current exchange rate CAD $449.99 is equal to around USD $405, which is just about what the console costs in the United Stated.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">Sony also said that <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/infamous-second-son/">Infamous: Second Son</a> and <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/mlb-14-the-show/">MLB 14: The Show</a>, two PlayStation exclusives, will release at the higher price of CAD $70.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">A Microsoft representative has told the <a href="http://business.financialpost.com/2014/03/14/playstation-4-price-going-up-by-50-in-canada/?__lsa=8e86-594a" rel="nofollow">The Financial Post</a> that the company is not raising the price of the Xbox One in Canada, which will stay at CAD $500.</p><p style="">Earlier in the week we reported that the <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/articles/ps4-leads-us-hardware-sales-in-february-but-by-narrow-margin/1100-6418306/">PS4 led US hardware sales in February, but only by a narrow margin</a>.</p><div data-embed-type="video" data-ref-id="2300-6417704" data-width="854" data-height="480"><iframe src="/videos/embed/6417704/" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen></iframe></div><table data-max-width="true"><thead><tr><th scope="col"><em>Emanuel Maiberg is a freelance writer. You can follow him on <a href="https://twitter.com/emanuelmaiberg" rel="nofollow" data-ref-id="false">Twitter @emanuelmaiberg</a> and <a href="https://plus.google.com/116710591398405257934/" rel="nofollow" data-ref-id="false">Google+</a>.<br /></em></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong><em>Got a news tip or want to contact us directly? Email <a href="mailto:news@gamespot.com" rel="nofollow">news@gamespot.com</a></em></strong></td></tr></tbody></table> Sat, 15 Mar 2014 06:12:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/articles/sony-raising-ps4-price-in-canada/1100-6418329/ http://www.gamespot.com/videos/that-s-some-good-south-park-the-stick-of-truth/2300-6417735/ [Spoilers] A mashup of GameSpot's favorite moments from South Park: The Stick of Truth. Fri, 14 Mar 2014 17:23:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/videos/that-s-some-good-south-park-the-stick-of-truth/2300-6417735/ http://www.gamespot.com/videos/heroes-of-the-storm-alpha-character-skins-and-colo/2300-6417734/ Ever wanted to play a Kaijo Diablo? Or maybe a chef Stitches? Well now you can in Heroes of the Storm, where Blizzard brings you all your favorite heroes in new colors and costumes. Fri, 14 Mar 2014 17:21:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/videos/heroes-of-the-storm-alpha-character-skins-and-colo/2300-6417734/ http://www.gamespot.com/videos/heroes-of-the-storm-alpha-characters-and-basic-ski/2300-6417733/ See all the current Heroes in the alpha build of Heroes of the Storm along with their basic skills. Fri, 14 Mar 2014 17:14:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/videos/heroes-of-the-storm-alpha-characters-and-basic-ski/2300-6417733/ http://www.gamespot.com/videos/gs-news-top-5-titanfall-game-changing-what-s-up-wi/2300-6417706/ We dig into political ads on Xbox Live, whether Ubisoft have downgraded Watch Dogs graphics, and just how important is Titanfall to the Xbox One? Fri, 14 Mar 2014 16:00:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/videos/gs-news-top-5-titanfall-game-changing-what-s-up-wi/2300-6417706/ http://www.gamespot.com/articles/here-s-the-latest-steam-controller-prototype/1100-6418327/ <figure data-align="center" data-size="large" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/1179/11799911/2454769-steamcontroller.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2454769" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/1179/11799911/2454769-steamcontroller.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2454769"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/1179/11799911/2454769-steamcontroller.jpg"></a><figcaption>The controller on the left is the new one</figcaption></figure><p dir="ltr" style=""> </p><p dir="ltr" style="">Today Valve released a new image of the latest iteration of its Steam Controller prototype. It remains similar in form factor to the version <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/articles/valve-reveals-steam-controller-with-touch-screen-haptic-feedback/1100-6415065/" data-ref-id="1100-6415065">originally announced in September</a>, but now two diamond-patterned button layouts have been added to the area previously reserved for a touch-screen display.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">That's not to say the Steam Controller's touch functionality has gone away. It hasn't. The new analog buttons now complement the controller's two touch pads. How the new button layout affects ease of use remains to be seen.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">The new Steam Controller prototype will be on display at Valve's booth at the 2014 Game Developers Conference in San Francisco next week. We'll be sure to try it out.</p><div data-embed-type="video" data-ref-id="2300-6415532" data-width="100%" data-height="100%"><iframe src="/videos/embed/6415532/" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen></iframe></div><p dir="ltr" style=""> </p><table data-max-width="true"><thead><tr><th scope="col"><em>Eddie Makuch is a news editor at GameSpot, and you can follow him on<a href="https://twitter.com/EddieMakuch" rel="nofollow" data-ref-id="false"> Twitter @EddieMakuch</a></em></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong><em>Got a news tip or want to contact us directly? Email <a href="mailto:news@gamespot.com" rel="nofollow">news@gamespot.com</a></em></strong></td></tr></tbody></table> Fri, 14 Mar 2014 13:24:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/articles/here-s-the-latest-steam-controller-prototype/1100-6418327/ http://www.gamespot.com/videos/gamespot-gameplay-podcast-episode-65/2300-6417724/ Kevin and crew talk about GDC 2014, Dark Souls II, Titanfall, BAFTAs, The Last of Us movie and more! Fri, 14 Mar 2014 13:05:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/videos/gamespot-gameplay-podcast-episode-65/2300-6417724/ http://www.gamespot.com/videos/feedbackula-dark-souls-ii-graphical-grumble/2300-6417707/ Dark Souls II is great fun to play, but is it nice to look at? Shockingly, not all of our commenters agree on the matter. Fri, 14 Mar 2014 12:00:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/videos/feedbackula-dark-souls-ii-graphical-grumble/2300-6417707/ http://www.gamespot.com/videos/heroes-of-the-storm-now-playing/2300-6417719/ Join Erick as he tries Blizzard's alpha build of their new hero brawler Heroes of the Storm. Fri, 14 Mar 2014 11:50:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/videos/heroes-of-the-storm-now-playing/2300-6417719/ http://www.gamespot.com/articles/how-much-do-gamestop-executives-make/1100-6418325/ <figure data-align="center" data-size="large" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/1179/11799911/2454711-gamestopexecs.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2454711" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/1179/11799911/2454711-gamestopexecs.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2454711"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/1179/11799911/2454711-gamestopexecs.jpg"></a></figure><p style=""> </p><p dir="ltr" style="">GameStop's Compensation Committee this week approved raises for various senior executives at the video game retailer for the company's fiscal year ending January 31, 2015 (fiscal 2014). The company announced the news in a <a href="http://investor.gamestop.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=130125&p=irol-SECText&TEXT=aHR0cDovL2FwaS50ZW5rd2l6YXJkLmNvbS9maWxpbmcueG1sP2lwYWdlPTk0NTY5MTcmRFNFUT0wJlNFUT0wJlNRREVTQz1TRUNUSU9OX0VOVElSRSZzdWJzaWQ9NTc%3D" rel="nofollow" data-ref-id="false">Securities & Exchange Commission filing</a>.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">As you can see in the chart below, CEO Paul Raines, president Tony Bartel, CFO Robert Lloyd, and GameStop International EVP Michael Mauler are all getting raises. Meanwhile, GameStop executive chairman Daniel DeMatteo will continue to draw a $900,000 salary.</p><figure data-align="center" data-size="large" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/1179/11799911/2454710-salaries1.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2454710" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/1179/11799911/2454710-salaries1.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2454710"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/1179/11799911/2454710-salaries1.jpg"></a></figure><p dir="ltr" style=""> </p><p dir="ltr" style="">CEO Paul Raines will see the biggest bump in his paycheck, as his base salary is rising from $1,060,000 to $1,210,000--that's an increase of 14 percent or $150,000. His executive colleagues, except for DeMatteo, will receive pay raises of 3 percent each.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">How does Raines' base salary company to other industry executives? Activision Blizzard CEO Robert Kotick <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/articles/activision-blizzard-ceo-bobby-kotick-receives-7-85-million-bonus/1100-6418250/" data-ref-id="1100-6418250">makes $2.1 million per year</a>, while Electronic Arts CEO Andrew Wilson is <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/articles/andrew-wilson-named-ea-ceo/1100-6414557/" data-ref-id="1100-6414557">paid an annual salary of $800,000</a>. Of course, both executives stand to make more than that thanks to bonuses and stock options.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">The same is true for GameStop executives, so they stand to earn significantly more if earnings targets are met or if they exercise their option to sell shares. Raines' 2014 total direct compensation at target is actually $8,630,000. </p><p style="">GameStop reported an <a href="http://investor.gamestop.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=130125&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1879030&highlight=" rel="nofollow" data-ref-id="false">18.8 percent increase in global revenue to $2.11 billion</a> for the quarter ended November 2. The company will report earnings for the holiday quarter--during which the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 went on sale--on March 27.</p><p style=""> </p> Fri, 14 Mar 2014 11:22:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/articles/how-much-do-gamestop-executives-make/1100-6418325/ http://www.gamespot.com/articles/blizzard-s-heroes-of-the-storm-alpha-characters-cost-between-3-99-and-9-99/1100-6418324/ <figure data-align="center" data-size="large" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/1493/14930800/2454698-screen+shot+2014-03-14+at+18.06.12.png" data-ref-id="1300-2454698" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/1493/14930800/2454698-screen+shot+2014-03-14+at+18.06.12.png" data-ref-id="1300-2454698"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/1493/14930800/2454698-screen+shot+2014-03-14+at+18.06.12.png"></a></figure><p style="">Blizzard has launched the technical alpha for its upcoming MOBA <a href="/heroes-of-the-storm/" data-ref-id="false">Heroes of the Storm</a>, and invited the first wave of people to play the game in its early development stages. Did you get in?</p><p dir="ltr" style="">The game follows a purchase model similar to League of Legends, in that the game rotates through a pool of free heroes but players can permanently add the character to their roster by spending real money or in-game gold. <a href="http://heroesofthestorm.blizzpro.com/2014/03/14/heroes-storm-hero-price-list-technical-alpha/" rel="nofollow">BlizzPro collated the prices</a>.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">23 heroes, plucked from StarCraft, Warcraft, and Diablo, are available in the current version of the beta, and Blizzard has opted for three tiers of pricing--the cheapest heroes cost $3.99/2000 gold, whereas the most expensive heroes go for $9.99/10,000 gold.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">Blizzard has mentioned a couple of important caveats: the pricing right now is being experimented with, so they are subject to change between now and the game's eventual release. The other thing is that players in the alpha will have their accounts wiped in the future, losing their purchases and in-game gold. If you spend real money during the alpha, the money will be credited back into your Battle.net account when the servers are wiped.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">But, out of curiosity, just how much would it cost to buy all 23 heroes right now? You're looking at $160.78, or 135,000 gold. Best get playing.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">League of Legends, meanwhile, currently has 118 champions, with pricing tiers set at 260/585/790/880/975 Riot Points or 450/1350/3150/4800/6300 in-game currency. Riot sells its Riot Points currency in fixed bundles, with the cheapest (650RP) costing $5, so at that rate its champions range from roughly $2.00 to $7.50 when buying with real money. Valve's Dota 2, on the other hand, does not charge for access to characters--it makes its money purely by selling cosmetic items. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">The hero pricing tiers for the Heroes of the Storm technical alpha:</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><strong>$3.99/2000 gold</strong></p><ul><li dir="ltr">Demon Hunter</li><li dir="ltr">Malfurion</li><li dir="ltr">Muradin</li><li dir="ltr">Raynor</li></ul><p dir="ltr" style=""><strong>$7.49/5500 gold</strong></p><ul><li dir="ltr">Arthas</li><li dir="ltr">Barbarian</li><li dir="ltr">Diablo</li><li dir="ltr">ETC</li><li dir="ltr">Falstad</li><li dir="ltr">Gazlowe</li><li dir="ltr">Illidan</li><li dir="ltr">Sgt. Hammer</li><li dir="ltr">Tassadar</li><li dir="ltr">Tychus</li><li dir="ltr">Tyrael</li><li dir="ltr">Tyrande</li><li dir="ltr">Uther</li><li dir="ltr">Zeratul</li></ul><p dir="ltr" style=""><strong>$9.99/10,000 gold</strong></p><ul><li dir="ltr">Abathur</li><li dir="ltr">Kerrigan</li><li dir="ltr">Nova</li><li dir="ltr">Stitches</li><li dir="ltr">Witch Doctor</li></ul><div data-embed-type="video" data-src="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vB_6GRNS7dg" data-width="100%" data-height="100%"><iframe src="//cdn.embedly.com/widgets/media.html?src=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fembed%2FvB_6GRNS7dg%3Fwmode%3Dopaque%26feature%3Doembed&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DvB_6GRNS7dg&image=http%3A%2F%2Fi1.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FvB_6GRNS7dg%2Fhqdefault.jpg&key=6efca6e5ad9640f180f14146a0bc1392&type=text%2Fhtml&schema=youtube&wmode=opaque" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen></iframe></div><p dir="ltr" style=""> </p> Fri, 14 Mar 2014 11:03:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/articles/blizzard-s-heroes-of-the-storm-alpha-characters-cost-between-3-99-and-9-99/1100-6418324/ http://www.gamespot.com/articles/the-elder-scrolls-online-5-million-people-sign-up-for-beta-bethesda-tweaks-its-constrained-tutorial/1100-6418323/ <figure data-align="center" data-size="large" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/2/0/0/9/2052009-669684_20130822_002.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2052009" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/2/0/0/9/2052009-669684_20130822_002.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2052009"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/mig/2/0/0/9/2052009-669684_20130822_002.jpg"></a></figure><p style=""> </p><p dir="ltr" style="">5 million people signed up for the <a href="/the-elder-scrolls-online/" data-ref-id="false">Elder Scrolls Online</a> beta, Bethesda announced today through the game's <a href="https://twitter.com/TESOnline/status/444507534494564352" rel="nofollow" data-ref-id="false">official Twitter channel</a>. It's unclear, however, how many of the 5 million have actually played the beta.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">"That's a wonderfully large number of people who have become part of our ESO community, and it continues to grow," The Elder Scrolls Online director Matt Firor<a href="http://elderscrollsonline.com/en/news/post/2014/03/14/eso-road-ahead" rel="nofollow" data-ref-id="false"> said in a blog post on the game's website</a>. He also addressed some of the feedback Bethesda has received so far and detailed how the studio has adjusted the game as a result.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">He said some players raised concerns about the beginning of the game being too "constrained." Firor said the game was structured this way so new players would not become overwhelmed, but explained that adjustments have since been made in response to the feedback</p><p dir="ltr" style="">"After exiting the modified, more streamlined tutorial in Coldharbour, new characters now wake up in the first major city of their respective Alliance as opposed to being forced to go through the starter islands," he said. "We're adjusting the level curve around those cities so that you'll have plenty to do and discover without running into enemies that are too powerful at the start. If you want to go back and experience these islands (which have been re-leveled to provide a regular content experience) the option is there, but players who prefer can just start exploring the rest of Tamriel."</p><p dir="ltr" style="">Bethesda has also addressed feedback regarding The Elder Scrolls Online's combat system.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">"We continue to identify ways to make melee combat feel even more substantial. In addition to many tweaks and changes to animations and audio, we've added player collision with NPCs, which means your character will no longer be able to run through NPC enemies," Firor said. "This is a frequently requested feature that we think succeeds in making melee combat more visceral and exciting."</p><figure data-align="center" data-size="large" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/2/0/0/8/2052008-669684_20130822_001.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2052008" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/2/0/0/8/2052008-669684_20130822_001.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2052008"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/mig/2/0/0/8/2052008-669684_20130822_001.jpg"></a></figure><p dir="ltr" style=""> </p><p dir="ltr" style="">Changes to the game's tutorial and combat aren't the only adjustments Bethesda has made during the game's ongoing beta, Firor pointed out.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">"These are just some examples of the changes we've made as you join our final beta test this weekend. If some of your feedback hasn't been addressed, it doesn't mean it was ignored or we felt it unimportant," he said. "We are continuing to implement changes and will make adjustments that improve the overall player experience as long as the feedback is coming. That means through launch and beyond."</p><p dir="ltr" style="">Finally, Firor assured fans that Bethesda has enough server infrastructure to support the launch of The Elder Scrolls Online in April. Datacenters in North America and Europe will support millions of players, he said, going on to explain that Bethesda even has "overflow servers" at the ready in event that even more players than predicted join in.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">"If player demand overwhelms our planned capacity and a queue has to be formed, we will offer waiting players the option to begin playing right away on an overflow server," Firor said. "The overflow server is meant to be a temporary place where you can begin your adventure as you normally would--gain experience, items, achievements, etc. The character you create and everything gained as you temporarily play on an overflow server will transfer back with you when you log in the next time on the main megaserver."</p><p dir="ltr" style="">Though you'll be able to group on the overflow servers, other social features like PvP or access your friends list and guild will not be available during these sessions, Firor said.</p><p style="">The Elder Scrolls Online <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/articles/the-elder-scrolls-online-xbox-one-and-ps4-release-date-is-two-months-after-pc/1100-6416658/" data-ref-id="1100-6416658">launches April 4 for PC and comes to Xbox One and PlayStation 4 in June</a>. Bethesda recently <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/articles/elder-scrolls-online-defends-subscription-fee-with-regular-significant-content/1100-6418221/" data-ref-id="1100-6418221">defended the game's $15/month subscription fee</a>, saying that the game's "significant" expansion content justifies its cost.</p><div data-embed-type="video" data-ref-id="2300-6417107" data-width="100%" data-height="100%"><iframe src="/videos/embed/6417107/" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen></iframe></div><p style=""> </p><table data-max-width="true"><thead><tr><th scope="col"><em>Eddie Makuch is a news editor at GameSpot, and you can follow him on<a href="https://twitter.com/EddieMakuch" rel="nofollow" data-ref-id="false"> Twitter @EddieMakuch</a></em></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong><em>Got a news tip or want to contact us directly? Email <a href="mailto:news@gamespot.com" rel="nofollow">news@gamespot.com</a></em></strong></td></tr></tbody></table> Fri, 14 Mar 2014 10:30:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/articles/the-elder-scrolls-online-5-million-people-sign-up-for-beta-bethesda-tweaks-its-constrained-tutorial/1100-6418323/ http://www.gamespot.com/videos/infinite-crisis-what-do-you-fight-for/2300-6417708/ Whether you fight for peace, hope, justice, mayhem or chaos – get ready to dive into the DC Multiverse with Infinite Crisis, now in Open Beta. Fri, 14 Mar 2014 09:40:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/videos/infinite-crisis-what-do-you-fight-for/2300-6417708/ http://www.gamespot.com/articles/the-last-of-us-sells-6-million-copies/1100-6418319/ <figure data-align="center" data-size="large" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/0/7/1/0/1990710-652686_20120814_003.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1990710" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/0/7/1/0/1990710-652686_20120814_003.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1990710"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/mig/0/7/1/0/1990710-652686_20120814_003.jpg"></a></figure><p style=""> </p><p dir="ltr" style=""><a href="/the-last-of-us/" data-ref-id="false">The Last of Us</a>, Naughty Dog's acclaimed 2013 PlayStation 3 action game, has now sold more than 6 million copies worldwide. Sony announced the news today on the <a href="http://blog.us.playstation.com/2014/03/14/2014-naughty-dog-gdc-talks-and-the-last-of-us-accolades/#comment-958884" rel="nofollow" data-ref-id="false">PlayStation Blog</a>.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">It's not clear if the 6 million figure is sold-in (sold to retailers) or sold-through (sold to consumers). We have reached out to Sony for comment. The last sales update for The Last of Us came three weeks after the game's release in June 2013 when Sony announced that the game had <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/articles/sony-sells-more-than-34-million-copies-of-the-last-of-us/1100-6411180/" data-ref-id="1100-6411180">sold 3.4 million copies</a>.</p><p style="">Do strong sales for The Last of Us signal that a sequel is on the way? According to creative director Neil Druckmann, there is a <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/articles/the-last-of-us-2-is-a-50-50-chance/1100-6417906/" data-ref-id="1100-6417906">50-50 shot that Naughty Dog will make a second game</a>. Druckmann and other Naughty Dog creative chiefs are <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/articles/another-reason-why-the-last-of-us-movie-is-sounding-good/1100-6418282/" data-ref-id="1100-6418282">currently working on a Last of Us movie as well</a>.</p><p style="">Just this week, The Last of Us won <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/articles/the-last-of-us-wins-bafta-game-of-the-year-award-steam-sale-for-other-award-winners-and-nominees/1100-6418275/" data-ref-id="1100-6418275">Best Game Overall at the BAFTAs</a> in London. For more, check out <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/the-last-of-us-review/1900-6409197/" data-ref-id="1900-6409197">GameSpot's review</a>.</p><div data-embed-type="video" data-ref-id="2300-6417222" data-width="100%" data-height="100%"><iframe src="/videos/embed/6417222/" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen></iframe></div><p style=""> </p><table data-max-width="true"><thead><tr><th scope="col"><em>Eddie Makuch is a news editor at GameSpot, and you can follow him on<a href="https://twitter.com/EddieMakuch" rel="nofollow" data-ref-id="false"> Twitter @EddieMakuch</a></em></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong><em>Got a news tip or want to contact us directly? Email <a href="mailto:news@gamespot.com" rel="nofollow">news@gamespot.com</a></em></strong></td></tr></tbody></table> Fri, 14 Mar 2014 09:18:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/articles/the-last-of-us-sells-6-million-copies/1100-6418319/ http://www.gamespot.com/articles/which-nintendo-platformer-is-right-for-you/1100-6418273/ <p style="">Nintendo's consoles are littered with platformers. And not only are there scores of games that focus on navigating 2D worlds, but they often sport a cartoony, family-friendly aesthetic that makes it difficult to distinguish one from another at a glance. Seriously, is there a major difference between Mario and Donkey Kong? They do both run from left to right, after all, and have a penchant for jumping. They're practically clones! Well, I don't buy into that reductionist belief one bit. Nintendo's franchises each fill a different gaming need, so I happily play new offerings to see what direction my favorite characters will go next.</p><p style="">So let's explore how Nintendo's four biggest platforming series compare to each other, and figure out which one to play depending on your gaming mood.</p><figure data-ref-id="1300-2042589" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/2/5/8/9/2042589-704055_20130611_010.jpg" data-size="large" data-align="center" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/2/5/8/9/2042589-704055_20130611_010.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2042589"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/mig/2/5/8/9/2042589-704055_20130611_010.jpg"></a></figure><h4><strong>Super Mario Bros.</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Super Mario World</strong></li><li><strong>New Super Mario Bros. Wii</strong></li><li><strong>New Super Mario Bros. U</strong></li></ul><p style=""> </p><p style="">The quintessential platforming franchise has remained true to what it first represented almost 30 years ago. The predominant appeal comes from the sheer joy of movement that Nintendo has injected into every one of these koopa-bashing adventures. Mario has a gravity-defying jump so you can bound effortlessly on top of goomba heads and across cavernous expanses. In-air control lets you adjust Mario's placement down to the pixel, and such free-flowing acrobatics just make me smile. Nothing defines Mario more than his incredible movement, and that is the core reason I've spent so many hours playing his many games.</p><p style="">We see Nintendo highlight this strength through the varied suits that each game employs. Soaring through the air with the cape in <a href="/super-mario-world/" data-ref-id="false">Super Mario World</a> is still one of my favorite things to do in any game, and the squirrel suit in <a href="/new-super-mario-bros-u/" data-ref-id="false">New Super Mario Bros. U</a> furthers the argument that Mario is at his best far above the ground. It's in the strongest games that we see level design that forces you to take advantage of Mario's prodigious talents. Pulling off a precise series of leaps is eminently rewarding, so much so that we still love each new addition even after all these years.</p><p style=""><strong>Who is this for: </strong>Everyone! Seriously, Mario games are so empowering, and so freeing, that anyone who wants to bounce through imaginative locales will love spending time in the Mushroom Kingdom.</p><figure data-ref-id="1300-2405016" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/536/5360430/2405016-wiiu_dkctf_12-18_pr_01.jpg" data-size="large" data-align="center" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/536/5360430/2405016-wiiu_dkctf_12-18_pr_01.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2405016"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/536/5360430/2405016-wiiu_dkctf_12-18_pr_01.jpg"></a></figure><h4><b>Donkey Kong Country</b></h4><ul><li><b>Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest</b></li><li><strong>Donkey Kong Country Returns</strong></li><li><strong>Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze</strong></li></ul><p style=""> </p><p style="">If Donkey Kong Country has taught me anything, it's that gorillas aren't nearly as agile as humans. Oh, and they look better in neckwear than I ever could. Unlike Super Mario Bros., Donkey Kong's movement is so heavy, so methodical, that the appeal must come from something outside of the core action. And the strength of Donkey Kong Country is firmly in its level design. We first saw how impressive stage construction could offset limited movement back in <a href="/donkey-kong-country-2-diddys-kong-quest/" data-ref-id="false">Donkey Kong Country 2</a>. Expansive locales rewarded anyone willing to venture off the beaten path, and the collectibles dotting the landscapes weren't needless busywork, but tokens proving our cunning.</p><p style="">Retro Studios has taken over development duties from Rare, though the switch hasn't affected the focus of the franchise. <a href="/donkey-kong-country-tropical-freeze/" data-ref-id="false">Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze</a> contains some of the most masterful, varied, and downright exciting levels that I have ever seen. Even something as seemingly mundane as mine carting has been elevated because of how expertly each element has been placed. We use the term "roller-coaster ride" far too often to explain thrilling sequences in games, but no term better fits the events of these fantastic stages. Throw in consistently amazing visual design and a top-notch score, and it's easy to understand why Donkey Kong Country has remained as popular as it has for so many games.</p><p style=""><strong>Who is this for: </strong>Are you methodical? Do you find it difficult to connect to plumbers? Then Donkey Kong Country is the franchise for you. Oh, and if you're one of those people who listens to gaming music when you're doing other things, point your ears toward these soundtracks.</p><p style=""> </p><figure data-ref-id="1300-2042949" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/2/9/4/9/2042949-711405_20130611_007.jpg" data-size="large" data-align="center" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/2/9/4/9/2042949-711405_20130611_007.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2042949"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/mig/2/9/4/9/2042949-711405_20130611_007.jpg"></a></figure><h4><b>Yoshi's Island</b></h4><ul><li><strong>Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island</strong></li><li><strong>Yoshi's Story</strong></li><li><strong>Yoshi's Island DS</strong></li></ul><p style="">Even though <a href="/super-mario-world-2-yoshis-island/" data-ref-id="false">Yoshi's Island</a> was first categorized as a sequel to Super Mario World, it's so different from its progenitor that it soon became clear that it's a separate franchise. So why would you spend time on board Yoshi instead of venturing forth in another platformer? Because of the aesthetics, of course. There's nothing else that looks quite like Yoshi's Island. By employing coloring-book sensibilities, it creates a world that evokes a familiar feeling of childlike joy. And that feeling is further communicated through the docile action sequences. Unlike Mario Bros. and Donkey Kong Country, Yoshi's adventures steer away from dexterous challenges. It's the fanciful visuals that draw you in, the eye-catching worlds that keep you invested.</p><p style="">In many ways, Yoshi's Island works as an entry-level platformer for those who have never mastered the precise demands of its more challenging counterparts. That's why its impressive artistic design defines it. Your attention is focused more on how the game looks than how it plays, and Yoshi's Island uses that fact to showcase some truly fantastic set designs. The levels work as guided tours that let you experience all of the lovely sights, and a catchy musical score keeps you humming along as you bop toward the finish line. This sightseeing focus is taken too far in <a href="/yoshis-new-island/" data-ref-id="false">Yoshi's New Island</a> at times, though the better offerings provide just enough engagement from an action perspective to keep you from growing bored as you stroll through the many worlds.</p><p style=""><strong>Who is this for: </strong>Video games are hard. What with all the button presses and stick wiggling, a person can be overwhelmed in a pinch. But Yoshi's Island? It welcomes everyone. Warm your icy heart in the colorful worlds of this lovely franchise.</p><figure data-ref-id="1300-1770234" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/gamespot/images/2011/234/reviews/1770234-935607_20110824_007.jpg" data-size="large" data-align="center" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/gamespot/images/2011/234/reviews/1770234-935607_20110824_007.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1770234"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/gamespot/images/2011/234/reviews/1770234-935607_20110824_007.jpg"></a></figure><h4><b>Kirby's Adventure</b></h4><ul><li><b>Kirby's Return to Dreamland</b></li><li><strong>Kirby: Squeak Squad</strong></li><li><strong>Kirby Super Star</strong></li></ul><p style="">Kirby looks more like a monster than a hero, and his actions only further the argument that he's not natural. But the main draw of his many games stems from his horrific talents. That pink blob can inhale the many baddies that populate his world, but unlike Yoshi, who merely turns his enemies into eggs, he absorbs their souls. Well, maybe not their souls, but at least he devours their powers. And so you venture through each stage with the intent of inhaling the many feeble foes to see what new abilities you can add to your repertoire.</p><p style="">Such a unique draw forces you to look inward. The emphasis of Kirby's games is on the versatile protagonist instead of the many background elements. Experimentation feeds your determination as you realize the strengths and weaknesses that come with each power. And because so much of Kirby's appeal is built upon the varied abilities you earn, each sequel has a ready-made hook that quickly communicates exactly why you should once again embody that marshmallow puff. With new enemies, there's the inherent promise of new powers, and seeing what else Kirby is capable of is reason enough to face off against King Dedede one more time.</p><p style=""><strong>Who is this for: </strong>Kirby rewards those who love to experiment. Mixing between elemental attacks or juggling weapon types ensures that there's tons of variety in both traversal and combat, so these games are ideal for anyone who wants to dictate progress on their own terms.</p><p style=""> </p><figure data-ref-id="1300-903882" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/3/8/8/2/903882-946578_20080923_011.jpg" data-size="large" data-align="center" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/3/8/8/2/903882-946578_20080923_011.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-903882"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/mig/3/8/8/2/903882-946578_20080923_011.jpg"></a></figure><h4><strong>Spin-offs</strong></h4><ul><li><b>Kirby: Canvas Curse</b></li><li><strong>Super Princess Peach<br /></strong></li><li><strong>Wario Land: Shake It</strong></li></ul><p style="">Just about every mainline entry in these franchise has been worth playing, and they're often borderline classics. However, we're a jaded bunch, so Nintendo has to keep things fresh or else we would soon grow tired of the expected. That's where spin-offs come in. By throwing familiar characters into unexpected endeavors, we keep them in our hands alongside our hearts, and we're even more eager to dive into the next proper sequel. It's one of smartest strategies that Nintendo has. By turning Luigi from a platforming star into a ghostbuster (hello, <a href="/luigis-mansion/" data-ref-id="false">Luigi's Mansion</a>!) or letting your control Donkey Kong by banging on a drum (I miss you, <a href="/donkey-kong-jungle-beat/" data-ref-id="false">Jungle Beat</a>), we're given a new look at old franchises.</p><p style="">So, Nintendo does have lots of games starring their lovable mascots, but they fit so many different needs, and come in so many different forms, than they've been able to stay fresh even as the decades roll by.</p> Fri, 14 Mar 2014 09:00:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/articles/which-nintendo-platformer-is-right-for-you/1100-6418273/
http://auth.gamespot.com/ Gamespot's Everything Feed! News, Reviews, Videos. Exploding with content? You bet. en-us Sat, 15 Mar 2014 07:14:09 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/articles/sony-raising-ps4-price-in-canada/1100-6418329/ <figure data-align="center" data-size="large" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/1535/15354745/2455204-8554789769-24258.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2455204" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/1535/15354745/2455204-8554789769-24258.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2455204"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/1535/15354745/2455204-8554789769-24258.jpg"></a></figure><p style="">Sony has announced that it is raising the price of the PlayStation 4 in Canada from CAD $400 to $450 in order "to respond to changes in the market environment." The higher price is effect starting today.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">"The PlayStation 4 computer entertainment system delivers phenomenal play experiences that will shape the world of games for years to come and has quickly become the next gen console of choice with gamers in Canada," Sony said in a statement. "To respond to changes in the market environment, the price of PlayStation 4 will be revised from CAD $399.99 to $449.99 MSRP [manufacturer's suggested retail price]."</p><p dir="ltr" style="">Sony didn't say that it changed the price because of the declining value of the Canadian dollar compared to the American dollar, but at the current exchange rate CAD $449.99 is equal to around USD $405, which is just about what the console costs in the United Stated.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">Sony also said that <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/infamous-second-son/">Infamous: Second Son</a> and <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/mlb-14-the-show/">MLB 14: The Show</a>, two PlayStation exclusives, will release at the higher price of CAD $70.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">A Microsoft representative has told the <a href="http://business.financialpost.com/2014/03/14/playstation-4-price-going-up-by-50-in-canada/?__lsa=8e86-594a" rel="nofollow">The Financial Post</a> that the company is not raising the price of the Xbox One in Canada, which will stay at CAD $500.</p><p style="">Earlier in the week we reported that the <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/articles/ps4-leads-us-hardware-sales-in-february-but-by-narrow-margin/1100-6418306/">PS4 led US hardware sales in February, but only by a narrow margin</a>.</p><div data-embed-type="video" data-ref-id="2300-6417704" data-width="854" data-height="480"><iframe src="/videos/embed/6417704/" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen></iframe></div><table data-max-width="true"><thead><tr><th scope="col"><em>Emanuel Maiberg is a freelance writer. You can follow him on <a href="https://twitter.com/emanuelmaiberg" rel="nofollow" data-ref-id="false">Twitter @emanuelmaiberg</a> and <a href="https://plus.google.com/116710591398405257934/" rel="nofollow" data-ref-id="false">Google+</a>.<br /></em></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong><em>Got a news tip or want to contact us directly? Email <a href="mailto:news@gamespot.com" rel="nofollow">news@gamespot.com</a></em></strong></td></tr></tbody></table> Sat, 15 Mar 2014 06:12:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/articles/sony-raising-ps4-price-in-canada/1100-6418329/ http://www.gamespot.com/videos/that-s-some-good-south-park-the-stick-of-truth/2300-6417735/ [Spoilers] A mashup of GameSpot's favorite moments from South Park: The Stick of Truth. Fri, 14 Mar 2014 17:23:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/videos/that-s-some-good-south-park-the-stick-of-truth/2300-6417735/ http://www.gamespot.com/videos/heroes-of-the-storm-alpha-character-skins-and-colo/2300-6417734/ Ever wanted to play a Kaijo Diablo? Or maybe a chef Stitches? Well now you can in Heroes of the Storm, where Blizzard brings you all your favorite heroes in new colors and costumes. Fri, 14 Mar 2014 17:21:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/videos/heroes-of-the-storm-alpha-character-skins-and-colo/2300-6417734/ http://www.gamespot.com/videos/heroes-of-the-storm-alpha-characters-and-basic-ski/2300-6417733/ See all the current Heroes in the alpha build of Heroes of the Storm along with their basic skills. Fri, 14 Mar 2014 17:14:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/videos/heroes-of-the-storm-alpha-characters-and-basic-ski/2300-6417733/ http://www.gamespot.com/videos/gs-news-top-5-titanfall-game-changing-what-s-up-wi/2300-6417706/ We dig into political ads on Xbox Live, whether Ubisoft have downgraded Watch Dogs graphics, and just how important is Titanfall to the Xbox One? Fri, 14 Mar 2014 16:00:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/videos/gs-news-top-5-titanfall-game-changing-what-s-up-wi/2300-6417706/ http://www.gamespot.com/articles/here-s-the-latest-steam-controller-prototype/1100-6418327/ <figure data-align="center" data-size="large" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/1179/11799911/2454769-steamcontroller.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2454769" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/1179/11799911/2454769-steamcontroller.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2454769"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/1179/11799911/2454769-steamcontroller.jpg"></a><figcaption>The controller on the left is the new one</figcaption></figure><p dir="ltr" style=""> </p><p dir="ltr" style="">Today Valve released a new image of the latest iteration of its Steam Controller prototype. It remains similar in form factor to the version <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/articles/valve-reveals-steam-controller-with-touch-screen-haptic-feedback/1100-6415065/" data-ref-id="1100-6415065">originally announced in September</a>, but now two diamond-patterned button layouts have been added to the area previously reserved for a touch-screen display.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">That's not to say the Steam Controller's touch functionality has gone away. It hasn't. The new analog buttons now complement the controller's two touch pads. How the new button layout affects ease of use remains to be seen.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">The new Steam Controller prototype will be on display at Valve's booth at the 2014 Game Developers Conference in San Francisco next week. We'll be sure to try it out.</p><div data-embed-type="video" data-ref-id="2300-6415532" data-width="100%" data-height="100%"><iframe src="/videos/embed/6415532/" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen></iframe></div><p dir="ltr" style=""> </p><table data-max-width="true"><thead><tr><th scope="col"><em>Eddie Makuch is a news editor at GameSpot, and you can follow him on<a href="https://twitter.com/EddieMakuch" rel="nofollow" data-ref-id="false"> Twitter @EddieMakuch</a></em></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong><em>Got a news tip or want to contact us directly? Email <a href="mailto:news@gamespot.com" rel="nofollow">news@gamespot.com</a></em></strong></td></tr></tbody></table> Fri, 14 Mar 2014 13:24:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/articles/here-s-the-latest-steam-controller-prototype/1100-6418327/ http://www.gamespot.com/videos/gamespot-gameplay-podcast-episode-65/2300-6417724/ Kevin and crew talk about GDC 2014, Dark Souls II, Titanfall, BAFTAs, The Last of Us movie and more! Fri, 14 Mar 2014 13:05:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/videos/gamespot-gameplay-podcast-episode-65/2300-6417724/ http://www.gamespot.com/videos/feedbackula-dark-souls-ii-graphical-grumble/2300-6417707/ Dark Souls II is great fun to play, but is it nice to look at? Shockingly, not all of our commenters agree on the matter. Fri, 14 Mar 2014 12:00:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/videos/feedbackula-dark-souls-ii-graphical-grumble/2300-6417707/ http://www.gamespot.com/videos/heroes-of-the-storm-now-playing/2300-6417719/ Join Erick as he tries Blizzard's alpha build of their new hero brawler Heroes of the Storm. Fri, 14 Mar 2014 11:50:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/videos/heroes-of-the-storm-now-playing/2300-6417719/ http://www.gamespot.com/articles/how-much-do-gamestop-executives-make/1100-6418325/ <figure data-align="center" data-size="large" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/1179/11799911/2454711-gamestopexecs.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2454711" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/1179/11799911/2454711-gamestopexecs.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2454711"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/1179/11799911/2454711-gamestopexecs.jpg"></a></figure><p style=""> </p><p dir="ltr" style="">GameStop's Compensation Committee this week approved raises for various senior executives at the video game retailer for the company's fiscal year ending January 31, 2015 (fiscal 2014). The company announced the news in a <a href="http://investor.gamestop.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=130125&p=irol-SECText&TEXT=aHR0cDovL2FwaS50ZW5rd2l6YXJkLmNvbS9maWxpbmcueG1sP2lwYWdlPTk0NTY5MTcmRFNFUT0wJlNFUT0wJlNRREVTQz1TRUNUSU9OX0VOVElSRSZzdWJzaWQ9NTc%3D" rel="nofollow" data-ref-id="false">Securities & Exchange Commission filing</a>.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">As you can see in the chart below, CEO Paul Raines, president Tony Bartel, CFO Robert Lloyd, and GameStop International EVP Michael Mauler are all getting raises. Meanwhile, GameStop executive chairman Daniel DeMatteo will continue to draw a $900,000 salary.</p><figure data-align="center" data-size="large" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/1179/11799911/2454710-salaries1.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2454710" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/1179/11799911/2454710-salaries1.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2454710"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/1179/11799911/2454710-salaries1.jpg"></a></figure><p dir="ltr" style=""> </p><p dir="ltr" style="">CEO Paul Raines will see the biggest bump in his paycheck, as his base salary is rising from $1,060,000 to $1,210,000--that's an increase of 14 percent or $150,000. His executive colleagues, except for DeMatteo, will receive pay raises of 3 percent each.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">How does Raines' base salary company to other industry executives? Activision Blizzard CEO Robert Kotick <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/articles/activision-blizzard-ceo-bobby-kotick-receives-7-85-million-bonus/1100-6418250/" data-ref-id="1100-6418250">makes $2.1 million per year</a>, while Electronic Arts CEO Andrew Wilson is <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/articles/andrew-wilson-named-ea-ceo/1100-6414557/" data-ref-id="1100-6414557">paid an annual salary of $800,000</a>. Of course, both executives stand to make more than that thanks to bonuses and stock options.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">The same is true for GameStop executives, so they stand to earn significantly more if earnings targets are met or if they exercise their option to sell shares. Raines' 2014 total direct compensation at target is actually $8,630,000. </p><p style="">GameStop reported an <a href="http://investor.gamestop.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=130125&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1879030&highlight=" rel="nofollow" data-ref-id="false">18.8 percent increase in global revenue to $2.11 billion</a> for the quarter ended November 2. The company will report earnings for the holiday quarter--during which the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 went on sale--on March 27.</p><p style=""> </p> Fri, 14 Mar 2014 11:22:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/articles/how-much-do-gamestop-executives-make/1100-6418325/ http://www.gamespot.com/articles/blizzard-s-heroes-of-the-storm-alpha-characters-cost-between-3-99-and-9-99/1100-6418324/ <figure data-align="center" data-size="large" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/1493/14930800/2454698-screen+shot+2014-03-14+at+18.06.12.png" data-ref-id="1300-2454698" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/1493/14930800/2454698-screen+shot+2014-03-14+at+18.06.12.png" data-ref-id="1300-2454698"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/1493/14930800/2454698-screen+shot+2014-03-14+at+18.06.12.png"></a></figure><p style="">Blizzard has launched the technical alpha for its upcoming MOBA <a href="/heroes-of-the-storm/" data-ref-id="false">Heroes of the Storm</a>, and invited the first wave of people to play the game in its early development stages. Did you get in?</p><p dir="ltr" style="">The game follows a purchase model similar to League of Legends, in that the game rotates through a pool of free heroes but players can permanently add the character to their roster by spending real money or in-game gold. <a href="http://heroesofthestorm.blizzpro.com/2014/03/14/heroes-storm-hero-price-list-technical-alpha/" rel="nofollow">BlizzPro collated the prices</a>.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">23 heroes, plucked from StarCraft, Warcraft, and Diablo, are available in the current version of the beta, and Blizzard has opted for three tiers of pricing--the cheapest heroes cost $3.99/2000 gold, whereas the most expensive heroes go for $9.99/10,000 gold.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">Blizzard has mentioned a couple of important caveats: the pricing right now is being experimented with, so they are subject to change between now and the game's eventual release. The other thing is that players in the alpha will have their accounts wiped in the future, losing their purchases and in-game gold. If you spend real money during the alpha, the money will be credited back into your Battle.net account when the servers are wiped.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">But, out of curiosity, just how much would it cost to buy all 23 heroes right now? You're looking at $160.78, or 135,000 gold. Best get playing.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">League of Legends, meanwhile, currently has 118 champions, with pricing tiers set at 260/585/790/880/975 Riot Points or 450/1350/3150/4800/6300 in-game currency. Riot sells its Riot Points currency in fixed bundles, with the cheapest (650RP) costing $5, so at that rate its champions range from roughly $2.00 to $7.50 when buying with real money. Valve's Dota 2, on the other hand, does not charge for access to characters--it makes its money purely by selling cosmetic items. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">The hero pricing tiers for the Heroes of the Storm technical alpha:</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><strong>$3.99/2000 gold</strong></p><ul><li dir="ltr">Demon Hunter</li><li dir="ltr">Malfurion</li><li dir="ltr">Muradin</li><li dir="ltr">Raynor</li></ul><p dir="ltr" style=""><strong>$7.49/5500 gold</strong></p><ul><li dir="ltr">Arthas</li><li dir="ltr">Barbarian</li><li dir="ltr">Diablo</li><li dir="ltr">ETC</li><li dir="ltr">Falstad</li><li dir="ltr">Gazlowe</li><li dir="ltr">Illidan</li><li dir="ltr">Sgt. Hammer</li><li dir="ltr">Tassadar</li><li dir="ltr">Tychus</li><li dir="ltr">Tyrael</li><li dir="ltr">Tyrande</li><li dir="ltr">Uther</li><li dir="ltr">Zeratul</li></ul><p dir="ltr" style=""><strong>$9.99/10,000 gold</strong></p><ul><li dir="ltr">Abathur</li><li dir="ltr">Kerrigan</li><li dir="ltr">Nova</li><li dir="ltr">Stitches</li><li dir="ltr">Witch Doctor</li></ul><div data-embed-type="video" data-src="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vB_6GRNS7dg" data-width="100%" data-height="100%"><iframe src="//cdn.embedly.com/widgets/media.html?src=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fembed%2FvB_6GRNS7dg%3Fwmode%3Dopaque%26feature%3Doembed&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DvB_6GRNS7dg&image=http%3A%2F%2Fi1.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FvB_6GRNS7dg%2Fhqdefault.jpg&key=6efca6e5ad9640f180f14146a0bc1392&type=text%2Fhtml&schema=youtube&wmode=opaque" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen></iframe></div><p dir="ltr" style=""> </p> Fri, 14 Mar 2014 11:03:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/articles/blizzard-s-heroes-of-the-storm-alpha-characters-cost-between-3-99-and-9-99/1100-6418324/ http://www.gamespot.com/articles/the-elder-scrolls-online-5-million-people-sign-up-for-beta-bethesda-tweaks-its-constrained-tutorial/1100-6418323/ <figure data-align="center" data-size="large" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/2/0/0/9/2052009-669684_20130822_002.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2052009" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/2/0/0/9/2052009-669684_20130822_002.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2052009"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/mig/2/0/0/9/2052009-669684_20130822_002.jpg"></a></figure><p style=""> </p><p dir="ltr" style="">5 million people signed up for the <a href="/the-elder-scrolls-online/" data-ref-id="false">Elder Scrolls Online</a> beta, Bethesda announced today through the game's <a href="https://twitter.com/TESOnline/status/444507534494564352" rel="nofollow" data-ref-id="false">official Twitter channel</a>. It's unclear, however, how many of the 5 million have actually played the beta.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">"That's a wonderfully large number of people who have become part of our ESO community, and it continues to grow," The Elder Scrolls Online director Matt Firor<a href="http://elderscrollsonline.com/en/news/post/2014/03/14/eso-road-ahead" rel="nofollow" data-ref-id="false"> said in a blog post on the game's website</a>. He also addressed some of the feedback Bethesda has received so far and detailed how the studio has adjusted the game as a result.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">He said some players raised concerns about the beginning of the game being too "constrained." Firor said the game was structured this way so new players would not become overwhelmed, but explained that adjustments have since been made in response to the feedback</p><p dir="ltr" style="">"After exiting the modified, more streamlined tutorial in Coldharbour, new characters now wake up in the first major city of their respective Alliance as opposed to being forced to go through the starter islands," he said. "We're adjusting the level curve around those cities so that you'll have plenty to do and discover without running into enemies that are too powerful at the start. If you want to go back and experience these islands (which have been re-leveled to provide a regular content experience) the option is there, but players who prefer can just start exploring the rest of Tamriel."</p><p dir="ltr" style="">Bethesda has also addressed feedback regarding The Elder Scrolls Online's combat system.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">"We continue to identify ways to make melee combat feel even more substantial. In addition to many tweaks and changes to animations and audio, we've added player collision with NPCs, which means your character will no longer be able to run through NPC enemies," Firor said. "This is a frequently requested feature that we think succeeds in making melee combat more visceral and exciting."</p><figure data-align="center" data-size="large" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/2/0/0/8/2052008-669684_20130822_001.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2052008" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/2/0/0/8/2052008-669684_20130822_001.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2052008"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/mig/2/0/0/8/2052008-669684_20130822_001.jpg"></a></figure><p dir="ltr" style=""> </p><p dir="ltr" style="">Changes to the game's tutorial and combat aren't the only adjustments Bethesda has made during the game's ongoing beta, Firor pointed out.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">"These are just some examples of the changes we've made as you join our final beta test this weekend. If some of your feedback hasn't been addressed, it doesn't mean it was ignored or we felt it unimportant," he said. "We are continuing to implement changes and will make adjustments that improve the overall player experience as long as the feedback is coming. That means through launch and beyond."</p><p dir="ltr" style="">Finally, Firor assured fans that Bethesda has enough server infrastructure to support the launch of The Elder Scrolls Online in April. Datacenters in North America and Europe will support millions of players, he said, going on to explain that Bethesda even has "overflow servers" at the ready in event that even more players than predicted join in.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">"If player demand overwhelms our planned capacity and a queue has to be formed, we will offer waiting players the option to begin playing right away on an overflow server," Firor said. "The overflow server is meant to be a temporary place where you can begin your adventure as you normally would--gain experience, items, achievements, etc. The character you create and everything gained as you temporarily play on an overflow server will transfer back with you when you log in the next time on the main megaserver."</p><p dir="ltr" style="">Though you'll be able to group on the overflow servers, other social features like PvP or access your friends list and guild will not be available during these sessions, Firor said.</p><p style="">The Elder Scrolls Online <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/articles/the-elder-scrolls-online-xbox-one-and-ps4-release-date-is-two-months-after-pc/1100-6416658/" data-ref-id="1100-6416658">launches April 4 for PC and comes to Xbox One and PlayStation 4 in June</a>. Bethesda recently <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/articles/elder-scrolls-online-defends-subscription-fee-with-regular-significant-content/1100-6418221/" data-ref-id="1100-6418221">defended the game's $15/month subscription fee</a>, saying that the game's "significant" expansion content justifies its cost.</p><div data-embed-type="video" data-ref-id="2300-6417107" data-width="100%" data-height="100%"><iframe src="/videos/embed/6417107/" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen></iframe></div><p style=""> </p><table data-max-width="true"><thead><tr><th scope="col"><em>Eddie Makuch is a news editor at GameSpot, and you can follow him on<a href="https://twitter.com/EddieMakuch" rel="nofollow" data-ref-id="false"> Twitter @EddieMakuch</a></em></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong><em>Got a news tip or want to contact us directly? Email <a href="mailto:news@gamespot.com" rel="nofollow">news@gamespot.com</a></em></strong></td></tr></tbody></table> Fri, 14 Mar 2014 10:30:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/articles/the-elder-scrolls-online-5-million-people-sign-up-for-beta-bethesda-tweaks-its-constrained-tutorial/1100-6418323/ http://www.gamespot.com/videos/infinite-crisis-what-do-you-fight-for/2300-6417708/ Whether you fight for peace, hope, justice, mayhem or chaos – get ready to dive into the DC Multiverse with Infinite Crisis, now in Open Beta. Fri, 14 Mar 2014 09:40:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/videos/infinite-crisis-what-do-you-fight-for/2300-6417708/ http://www.gamespot.com/articles/the-last-of-us-sells-6-million-copies/1100-6418319/ <figure data-align="center" data-size="large" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/0/7/1/0/1990710-652686_20120814_003.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1990710" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/0/7/1/0/1990710-652686_20120814_003.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1990710"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/mig/0/7/1/0/1990710-652686_20120814_003.jpg"></a></figure><p style=""> </p><p dir="ltr" style=""><a href="/the-last-of-us/" data-ref-id="false">The Last of Us</a>, Naughty Dog's acclaimed 2013 PlayStation 3 action game, has now sold more than 6 million copies worldwide. Sony announced the news today on the <a href="http://blog.us.playstation.com/2014/03/14/2014-naughty-dog-gdc-talks-and-the-last-of-us-accolades/#comment-958884" rel="nofollow" data-ref-id="false">PlayStation Blog</a>.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">It's not clear if the 6 million figure is sold-in (sold to retailers) or sold-through (sold to consumers). We have reached out to Sony for comment. The last sales update for The Last of Us came three weeks after the game's release in June 2013 when Sony announced that the game had <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/articles/sony-sells-more-than-34-million-copies-of-the-last-of-us/1100-6411180/" data-ref-id="1100-6411180">sold 3.4 million copies</a>.</p><p style="">Do strong sales for The Last of Us signal that a sequel is on the way? According to creative director Neil Druckmann, there is a <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/articles/the-last-of-us-2-is-a-50-50-chance/1100-6417906/" data-ref-id="1100-6417906">50-50 shot that Naughty Dog will make a second game</a>. Druckmann and other Naughty Dog creative chiefs are <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/articles/another-reason-why-the-last-of-us-movie-is-sounding-good/1100-6418282/" data-ref-id="1100-6418282">currently working on a Last of Us movie as well</a>.</p><p style="">Just this week, The Last of Us won <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/articles/the-last-of-us-wins-bafta-game-of-the-year-award-steam-sale-for-other-award-winners-and-nominees/1100-6418275/" data-ref-id="1100-6418275">Best Game Overall at the BAFTAs</a> in London. For more, check out <a href="http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/the-last-of-us-review/1900-6409197/" data-ref-id="1900-6409197">GameSpot's review</a>.</p><div data-embed-type="video" data-ref-id="2300-6417222" data-width="100%" data-height="100%"><iframe src="/videos/embed/6417222/" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen></iframe></div><p style=""> </p><table data-max-width="true"><thead><tr><th scope="col"><em>Eddie Makuch is a news editor at GameSpot, and you can follow him on<a href="https://twitter.com/EddieMakuch" rel="nofollow" data-ref-id="false"> Twitter @EddieMakuch</a></em></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong><em>Got a news tip or want to contact us directly? Email <a href="mailto:news@gamespot.com" rel="nofollow">news@gamespot.com</a></em></strong></td></tr></tbody></table> Fri, 14 Mar 2014 09:18:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/articles/the-last-of-us-sells-6-million-copies/1100-6418319/ http://www.gamespot.com/articles/which-nintendo-platformer-is-right-for-you/1100-6418273/ <p style="">Nintendo's consoles are littered with platformers. And not only are there scores of games that focus on navigating 2D worlds, but they often sport a cartoony, family-friendly aesthetic that makes it difficult to distinguish one from another at a glance. Seriously, is there a major difference between Mario and Donkey Kong? They do both run from left to right, after all, and have a penchant for jumping. They're practically clones! Well, I don't buy into that reductionist belief one bit. Nintendo's franchises each fill a different gaming need, so I happily play new offerings to see what direction my favorite characters will go next.</p><p style="">So let's explore how Nintendo's four biggest platforming series compare to each other, and figure out which one to play depending on your gaming mood.</p><figure data-ref-id="1300-2042589" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/2/5/8/9/2042589-704055_20130611_010.jpg" data-size="large" data-align="center" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/2/5/8/9/2042589-704055_20130611_010.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2042589"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/mig/2/5/8/9/2042589-704055_20130611_010.jpg"></a></figure><h4><strong>Super Mario Bros.</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Super Mario World</strong></li><li><strong>New Super Mario Bros. Wii</strong></li><li><strong>New Super Mario Bros. U</strong></li></ul><p style=""> </p><p style="">The quintessential platforming franchise has remained true to what it first represented almost 30 years ago. The predominant appeal comes from the sheer joy of movement that Nintendo has injected into every one of these koopa-bashing adventures. Mario has a gravity-defying jump so you can bound effortlessly on top of goomba heads and across cavernous expanses. In-air control lets you adjust Mario's placement down to the pixel, and such free-flowing acrobatics just make me smile. Nothing defines Mario more than his incredible movement, and that is the core reason I've spent so many hours playing his many games.</p><p style="">We see Nintendo highlight this strength through the varied suits that each game employs. Soaring through the air with the cape in <a href="/super-mario-world/" data-ref-id="false">Super Mario World</a> is still one of my favorite things to do in any game, and the squirrel suit in <a href="/new-super-mario-bros-u/" data-ref-id="false">New Super Mario Bros. U</a> furthers the argument that Mario is at his best far above the ground. It's in the strongest games that we see level design that forces you to take advantage of Mario's prodigious talents. Pulling off a precise series of leaps is eminently rewarding, so much so that we still love each new addition even after all these years.</p><p style=""><strong>Who is this for: </strong>Everyone! Seriously, Mario games are so empowering, and so freeing, that anyone who wants to bounce through imaginative locales will love spending time in the Mushroom Kingdom.</p><figure data-ref-id="1300-2405016" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/536/5360430/2405016-wiiu_dkctf_12-18_pr_01.jpg" data-size="large" data-align="center" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/536/5360430/2405016-wiiu_dkctf_12-18_pr_01.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2405016"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/536/5360430/2405016-wiiu_dkctf_12-18_pr_01.jpg"></a></figure><h4><b>Donkey Kong Country</b></h4><ul><li><b>Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest</b></li><li><strong>Donkey Kong Country Returns</strong></li><li><strong>Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze</strong></li></ul><p style=""> </p><p style="">If Donkey Kong Country has taught me anything, it's that gorillas aren't nearly as agile as humans. Oh, and they look better in neckwear than I ever could. Unlike Super Mario Bros., Donkey Kong's movement is so heavy, so methodical, that the appeal must come from something outside of the core action. And the strength of Donkey Kong Country is firmly in its level design. We first saw how impressive stage construction could offset limited movement back in <a href="/donkey-kong-country-2-diddys-kong-quest/" data-ref-id="false">Donkey Kong Country 2</a>. Expansive locales rewarded anyone willing to venture off the beaten path, and the collectibles dotting the landscapes weren't needless busywork, but tokens proving our cunning.</p><p style="">Retro Studios has taken over development duties from Rare, though the switch hasn't affected the focus of the franchise. <a href="/donkey-kong-country-tropical-freeze/" data-ref-id="false">Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze</a> contains some of the most masterful, varied, and downright exciting levels that I have ever seen. Even something as seemingly mundane as mine carting has been elevated because of how expertly each element has been placed. We use the term "roller-coaster ride" far too often to explain thrilling sequences in games, but no term better fits the events of these fantastic stages. Throw in consistently amazing visual design and a top-notch score, and it's easy to understand why Donkey Kong Country has remained as popular as it has for so many games.</p><p style=""><strong>Who is this for: </strong>Are you methodical? Do you find it difficult to connect to plumbers? Then Donkey Kong Country is the franchise for you. Oh, and if you're one of those people who listens to gaming music when you're doing other things, point your ears toward these soundtracks.</p><p style=""> </p><figure data-ref-id="1300-2042949" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/2/9/4/9/2042949-711405_20130611_007.jpg" data-size="large" data-align="center" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/2/9/4/9/2042949-711405_20130611_007.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2042949"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/mig/2/9/4/9/2042949-711405_20130611_007.jpg"></a></figure><h4><b>Yoshi's Island</b></h4><ul><li><strong>Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island</strong></li><li><strong>Yoshi's Story</strong></li><li><strong>Yoshi's Island DS</strong></li></ul><p style="">Even though <a href="/super-mario-world-2-yoshis-island/" data-ref-id="false">Yoshi's Island</a> was first categorized as a sequel to Super Mario World, it's so different from its progenitor that it soon became clear that it's a separate franchise. So why would you spend time on board Yoshi instead of venturing forth in another platformer? Because of the aesthetics, of course. There's nothing else that looks quite like Yoshi's Island. By employing coloring-book sensibilities, it creates a world that evokes a familiar feeling of childlike joy. And that feeling is further communicated through the docile action sequences. Unlike Mario Bros. and Donkey Kong Country, Yoshi's adventures steer away from dexterous challenges. It's the fanciful visuals that draw you in, the eye-catching worlds that keep you invested.</p><p style="">In many ways, Yoshi's Island works as an entry-level platformer for those who have never mastered the precise demands of its more challenging counterparts. That's why its impressive artistic design defines it. Your attention is focused more on how the game looks than how it plays, and Yoshi's Island uses that fact to showcase some truly fantastic set designs. The levels work as guided tours that let you experience all of the lovely sights, and a catchy musical score keeps you humming along as you bop toward the finish line. This sightseeing focus is taken too far in <a href="/yoshis-new-island/" data-ref-id="false">Yoshi's New Island</a> at times, though the better offerings provide just enough engagement from an action perspective to keep you from growing bored as you stroll through the many worlds.</p><p style=""><strong>Who is this for: </strong>Video games are hard. What with all the button presses and stick wiggling, a person can be overwhelmed in a pinch. But Yoshi's Island? It welcomes everyone. Warm your icy heart in the colorful worlds of this lovely franchise.</p><figure data-ref-id="1300-1770234" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/gamespot/images/2011/234/reviews/1770234-935607_20110824_007.jpg" data-size="large" data-align="center" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/gamespot/images/2011/234/reviews/1770234-935607_20110824_007.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1770234"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/gamespot/images/2011/234/reviews/1770234-935607_20110824_007.jpg"></a></figure><h4><b>Kirby's Adventure</b></h4><ul><li><b>Kirby's Return to Dreamland</b></li><li><strong>Kirby: Squeak Squad</strong></li><li><strong>Kirby Super Star</strong></li></ul><p style="">Kirby looks more like a monster than a hero, and his actions only further the argument that he's not natural. But the main draw of his many games stems from his horrific talents. That pink blob can inhale the many baddies that populate his world, but unlike Yoshi, who merely turns his enemies into eggs, he absorbs their souls. Well, maybe not their souls, but at least he devours their powers. And so you venture through each stage with the intent of inhaling the many feeble foes to see what new abilities you can add to your repertoire.</p><p style="">Such a unique draw forces you to look inward. The emphasis of Kirby's games is on the versatile protagonist instead of the many background elements. Experimentation feeds your determination as you realize the strengths and weaknesses that come with each power. And because so much of Kirby's appeal is built upon the varied abilities you earn, each sequel has a ready-made hook that quickly communicates exactly why you should once again embody that marshmallow puff. With new enemies, there's the inherent promise of new powers, and seeing what else Kirby is capable of is reason enough to face off against King Dedede one more time.</p><p style=""><strong>Who is this for: </strong>Kirby rewards those who love to experiment. Mixing between elemental attacks or juggling weapon types ensures that there's tons of variety in both traversal and combat, so these games are ideal for anyone who wants to dictate progress on their own terms.</p><p style=""> </p><figure data-ref-id="1300-903882" data-img-src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/3/8/8/2/903882-946578_20080923_011.jpg" data-size="large" data-align="center" data-resize-url="" data-resized="" data-embed-type="image"><a href="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/original/mig/3/8/8/2/903882-946578_20080923_011.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-903882"><img src="http://static.gamespot.com/uploads/scale_super/mig/3/8/8/2/903882-946578_20080923_011.jpg"></a></figure><h4><strong>Spin-offs</strong></h4><ul><li><b>Kirby: Canvas Curse</b></li><li><strong>Super Princess Peach<br /></strong></li><li><strong>Wario Land: Shake It</strong></li></ul><p style="">Just about every mainline entry in these franchise has been worth playing, and they're often borderline classics. However, we're a jaded bunch, so Nintendo has to keep things fresh or else we would soon grow tired of the expected. That's where spin-offs come in. By throwing familiar characters into unexpected endeavors, we keep them in our hands alongside our hearts, and we're even more eager to dive into the next proper sequel. It's one of smartest strategies that Nintendo has. By turning Luigi from a platforming star into a ghostbuster (hello, <a href="/luigis-mansion/" data-ref-id="false">Luigi's Mansion</a>!) or letting your control Donkey Kong by banging on a drum (I miss you, <a href="/donkey-kong-jungle-beat/" data-ref-id="false">Jungle Beat</a>), we're given a new look at old franchises.</p><p style="">So, Nintendo does have lots of games starring their lovable mascots, but they fit so many different needs, and come in so many different forms, than they've been able to stay fresh even as the decades roll by.</p> Fri, 14 Mar 2014 09:00:00 -0700 http://www.gamespot.com/articles/which-nintendo-platformer-is-right-for-you/1100-6418273/
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