Feature: Sony Holiday 2012 Preview Event

 

When I arrived at Sony's annual holiday preview event in Toronto I immediately felt a sense of comfort. This sensation was far different from the very first time I arrived at such an event. As the years have passed I have made connections with my fellow journalists and these events are not only a time to play the latest games but also a time to get together face to face with those that share similar passions. It has not only become comfortable, but also enjoyable.

The most important aspect of this event is the ability to actually try some of the games that are coming out. Reading about them here is great, but a hands on approach is always best. For example, everything I have read and heard about the new God of War: Ascension has led me to think and believe that it is really just regular God of War with multiplayer. When I picked it up and played it I can honestly tell you that it does actually feel somewhat different. Yes, it has all the gory killings and finishing moves you have come to expect (and love?) but the combat had enough different about it that I walked away wanting more. In fact, when I finished the demo I had a physical reaction and almost threw down the controller in frustration that it was over. I'm definitely looking forward to March 13, 2013.

God of War: Ascension

Before March you'll find me buried in time in Sly Cooper: Thieves of Time. Slated for February 5, 2013 this fourth instalment in the Sly Cooper series that started on the Playstation 2 has me salivating just a little bit. Now being developed by Sanzaru Games, this action platformer might look like a kid's game but don't let appearances fool you. I spent quite a bit of time trying to navigate a tricky platforming section until I realized I could slow time down! The game has the mechanics and tight controls of the original with a fresh coat of high definition paint. The fact that you will also get a free copy of the PS Vita version included with the PS3 version is great, and with a cloud save you'll even be able to take the game with you on the fledgling portable platform and then resume your game later via its big brother.

Sly Cooper: Thieves of Time

Perhaps, for me, the most surprising game was Wonderbook: Book of Spells. This is the first title I've mentioned that is actually coming out before Christmas (November 13, 2012) and is perhaps one of the more misunderstood titles.

You might think it's simply targeted to kids, with its well built AR "Book", but the fact is that if you've got any love for the Harry Potter series at all you are going to want to try this out. It's also the first excuse I've had in a while to get the Move controller out, Wonderbook is the first in a planned series of J.K. Rowlings "Book of Spells" series and it makes you think about what might be possible in the future. This one, for example, does not support voice activation of spells (for fear kids would have trouble with pronunciation) but what about a game – perhaps targeted at a more mature audience – where it did matter? I can't get Hermione's line out of my head…"It's LeviOsa…not LevioSA".

Sadly, you won't find the new DMC – Devil May Cry – under the Christmas tree. It's January 15, 2013 release date is just a little too far out but I know this another one I'll have to get my hands on. When I walked up to this game I didn't even know what it was, I just knew it looked and played great. A fellow journalist blurted out "What is this!?" and we were given the answer. It doesn't look like any DMC you've played before, and in my opinion that's a good thing. Let's hope the full experience holds up to the small sample I was able to see.

There were many other games at the event as well, including the Unfinished Swan (which looks interesting, but is currently carrying the sub-title of "The Unfinished Game" since I couldn't get a definitive release date). The "old" stand-bys were there including Little Big Planet Karting and Playstation All-Stars Battle Royale. Even Assassins Creed III was there in full force.

Leaving the event brought the same feeling as my arrival: there was comfort with the games I had played. Most of them felt like old friends I have seen before. Most looked like they have aged well, and others are looking a little tired. In the end, I left hopeful for Christmas and the joy, warmth, and well-wrapped video games that it brings.

- Syd Bolton

Syd Bolton is Canada's top video game collector and curator of the Personal Computer Museum. You can find out more at his personal page – http://www.sydbolton.com