The Koalition | The Video Game & Hip Hop Authority » Gary A Swaby

The Co-Op Episode 212 – Let Me Take You To The Movies

Gary A Swaby — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 02:37:10 +0000

This is another classic episode of The Co-Op for you people. This week we had a lot to talk about, and things got very intense. Htownplaya(Edward V) ended up making a strong statement, which I’m sure will be discussed well after this podcast. He mentioned that Playstation 3 gamers suck compared to Xbox live players (Rich give me that “UH OH”).

The main topics we touched on this week include the Modern Warfare 2 hacker fiasco, Sony introducing a subscription plan for PSN, and the Spike Video Game Awards nominations for Game Of The Year.

Shout outs to the best rapper alive Bangs for our outro music.

Do not miss this episode.

Blue Toad Murder Files Teaser Trailer

Gary A Swaby — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:42:28 +0000

Relentless Software have released a teaser trailer for Blue Toad Murder Files, which will be released on PSN 17th December. If you want more information about this game, you can check out my interview with Jade Tidy. Relentless Software are the same company that brought you Buzz, so expect big things.

PSN to get some form of subscription service.

Gary A Swaby — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:40:29 +0000

I wish I could get Koalition editor Richard Bailey to insert an “Uh Oh” right here. In a recent presentation it was revealed that Sony plan to implement some kind of subscription service for PSN to generate revenue. However do not worry as Kaz Hirai was quick to come out and let us know that playing online will remain completely free.

Below is a direct quote of the plans they may have from this subscription service.

“SCE will further increase sales by offering users new entertainment through the combination of hardware, software, peripheral and PlayStation Network,” said the SCE boss.

“Especially in the online area, we are studying the possibility of introducing a subscription model, offering premium content and services, in addition to the current free services.”

Take it how you will; but all I have to say is, I don’t see many people buying a subscription if they can still play games online free of charge.

Facebook PS3 Update to be released today

Gary A Swaby — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:22:46 +0000

The Facebook update (3.10) is to be released at some time today for the Playstation 3. This comes one day after the official release of the Xbox Live Facebook, Twitter and Last FM update. Many people will look at this as a jack move, but I do not see it that way. Facebook, Twitter and many other social sites have been plastered on other services for a long time now. Ever since these sites offered their API they have been plastered across many websites, it was only a matter of time before the craze came to consoles as well. It just so happened that Xbox was the first to get it integrated.

And plus don’t forget that Playstation 3 users have always had access to these social services, via the browser. The Playstation 3 integration will not only allow you to see your pictures on the xmb, but you will also be able to show updates of your trophies and events that happen within your games.

So don’t be suprised to hear twitter come to the Playstation 3 next, and also I am almost certain these applications will come to the Wii.

The Office – Happy 1 Year Anniversary

Gary A Swaby — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 02:25:59 +0000

Thats right, today (the 17th November) is The Koalition’s 1 year birthday. So this is a very special office. In this episode we break it down 100% on how we started the site, hear it right from the people who created the Koalition. The Koalition would like to thank all the fans and everybody who has shown their support over the past 12 months.

Incase you forgot what The Koalition is about, then we’re going to remind you. Below is a little story/description all about The Koalition’s goals and achievements.

The Koalition is a video game site targeting the hiphop & urban community. Providing new perspective for the consumer as well as the game makers. The Koalition has become the authority in hiphop and video games from experience in game journalism, passion for music, and social networking.

The Koalition has quickly become the dominant urban voice in gaming, With features on top site/publications such as Kotaku, ThisIs50, GamePro, Shade45, Complex, 2Dopeboyz, Konsole Kingz and even collaborations with Xbox Live. The Koalition was also the 2009 Black Weblog Award winner for best technology site/blog.

UK Charts: The Veteran FPS Wins

Gary A Swaby — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 20:38:07 +0000

It’s a no brainer that Modern Warfare 2 is this weeks number one, gaining 64.7 Million pounds in revenue the first week. Not only did the game shoot to number one, but it broke the record for the biggest launch of any video game ever. Even Call Of Duty 4: Modern Warfare makes an appearance, charting at number 19. So congrats to Infinity Ward and Activision for creating a monster. Congrats also to Nintendo who saw a 47 percent increase in sales for Wii Sports Resort; but as we’ve come to expect, Wii video game sales go up and down all throughout the year. The full top twenty list is below

* 01 Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2
* 02 Wii Sports Resort
* 03 FIFA 10
* 04 Wii Fit Plus
* 05 Forza Motorsport 3
* 06 Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games
* 07 Lego Batman: The Videogame
* 08 Mario Kart Wii
* 09 Pure
* 10 Grand Theft Auto: Tales from Liberty City
* 11 Pro Evolution Soccer 2010
* 12 Football Manager 2010
* 13 Dragon Age: Origins
* 14 Professor Layton and Pandora’s Box
* 15 SingStar: Take That
* 16 WWE SmackDown vs Raw 2010
* 17 Need for Speed: Shift
* 18 Uncharted 2: Among Thieves
* 19 Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare
* 20 Tekken 6

Left 4 Dead 2 Steam Giveaway

Gary A Swaby — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 18:52:11 +0000

To follow up on all the nice giveaways we have been giving to you guys lately, we have a Left 4 Dead 2 steam code to give away to a lucky winner. The code will unlock the complete game, which is released this week. Remember this is a “Steam” code, therefor you need to be set up on the service and be an avid PC gamer before you even think about entering. As usual a winner will be picked at random, the contest will run until this Friday (the 20th November). Just fill in the form below, and good luck to you.

REMEMBER THIS IS THE PC VERSION, DO NOT ENTER IF YOU DONT HAVE A PC THAT CAN RUN THE GAME

UPDATE: We found another code, so anyone who has entered and does not win the code we have advertised will be chosen at random for the other code.

HipHopGamerShow 11/15/09 – Insomniac PS3 Only Now A Thing Of The Past?

Gary A Swaby — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 16:21:25 +0000

Another Sunday another HipHopGamerShow, check it out as HipHopGamer gives us his great analytics on video gaming right now.

1. Xbox Live To Receive FF7 And 8
2. Facebook Features On PSN Almost A Done Deal
3. Capcom Guest Stars On The Show
4. Game Review – Modern Warfare 2 (10 out of 10) Must Play This Game
5. Live In Def Jam Studio – HipHopGamer & Luciano Behind The Scenes Recording “Death Of The Industry”

The Co-Op Episode 211 – D.O.J

Gary A Swaby — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 07:49:05 +0000

The Co-Op is back and better than ever. This week we discuss the recent good news about Final Fantasy, Modern Warfare 2 impressions, NPD’s and Facebook coming to the Playstation 3. Along with that we also have a couple updates to keep you posted on, so sit back and chill with The Koalition for the next hour. Shout outs to our guest Andre Tipton.

Dragon Age Origins rakes in $1 Million worth of DLC sales in a week

Gary A Swaby — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:21:36 +0000

Thats right, 1 Million Dollars! It’s crazy how this game can pull that much DLC already when the game is already like 60 hours long by itself. I’m barely like 4 hours in, that’s due to my decision to fly to the states this week though. Dragon Age: Origins included DLC upon launch and as you can see it has been very successful. Just remember that Bioware have promised 12 months of DLC for this game, so Dragon Age fans better hold onto every penny from now.

P.S I told you guys this game was dope.

Splinter Cell Conviction to Push In-Game Advertising One Step Further

Gary A Swaby — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:05:36 +0000

Previously in game ad’s have been seen in racing games, or soccer franchises. This felt natural because of the fact that you would see ad’s in those presentations in real life right? Well Splinter Cell is pushing the whole in-game advertisement thing one step further, Ubisoft have allowed their sponsors to place ads in many of the places Sam Fisher will perform his acts of torture.

Ubisoft even went as far as listing certain hot spots in the game world that players are very likely to go. Could this be a new trend in gaming, it will sure help put some more dollars in the developers pockets.

Let’s just hope the game isn’t too plastered with these ads, we don’t want to see a Virgin Airlines ad while Sam is hanging on the side of a building.

Tony Yayo plays Modern Warfare 2 with Ice T, CoCo and DJ WhooKid

Gary A Swaby — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 23:33:32 +0000

Tony Yayo was at a Call Of Duty Modern Warfare 2 launch party in NY along with DJ Jazzy Jeff, Ice-T, DJ Whoo Kid & Coco. It looks like Tony Yayo’s gaming skills aren’t half as good as his rap skills (Those last few mixtape’s were fire). Ice T on the other hand plays games on the regular; and as Yayo says in the video, “he be playin with Xzibit n them”.

[Props to: Thisis50]

Up to 1 Million Xbox 360 Users Banned, Is this a strategy for more sales?

Gary A Swaby — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 23:33:27 +0000

Microsoft have taken the ban hammer out of their closet. It has been reported that up to 1 Million Xbox Live accounts have been banned due to illegal modding and piracy. This is well justified as it is not good to steal of course, but is there more to Microsoft’s intentions than meets the eye?

I do not doubt that Microsoft wish to help out the game developers/publishers by clamping down on the piracy of their games on the console, as that is a delicate matter that should be a top priority. Below is a statement on this matter issued by Microsoft.

“All consumers should know that piracy is illegal and that modifying their Xbox 360 console to play pirated discs violates the Xbox Live terms of use, will void their warranty and result in a ban from Xbox Live,”

However we all know that once somebody’s account get’s banned their only option is to purchase a brand new Xbox 360.

So my question is, could this act be both an improvisation and a strategy to boost their sales a little? It would be a great way to boost their holiday sales even further wouldn’t it?

God Of War II QA Lead Stephen Peterson shows how to get “15 minute” fight trophy

Gary A Swaby — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:11:08 +0000

In this video Stephen shows how to get that 15 minute fight trophy with a wicked 500-hit combo, this is how you wanna play if you wanna completely own in the God Of War collection. Stephen has played through God Of War II apparently around 100 times, though I’m sure the homie IxxIconxxI would give him a run for his money.

UK Charts: Wii Fit plus is number 1, Dragon age enters at 5.

Gary A Swaby — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:46:24 +0000

Just when you think the charts have been rid of the Wii fit madness for good, we are suddenly reminded that the madness never ends. Wii fit plus has shot to the number one spot toppling last weeks number one Football Manager (which is now in 4th). The highest new entry this week goes to Dragon Age: Origins which is a very dope RPG I must say.

here is the full top ten below, courtesy of Chart-Track.

# 01 Wii Fit Plus
# 02 FIFA 10
# 03 Wii Sports Resort
# 04 Football Manager 2010
# 05 Dragon Age: Origins
# 06 Forza Motorsport 3
# 07 Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games
# 08 Grand Theft Auto: Episodes from Liberty City
# 09 Pro Evolution Soccer 2010
# 10 Tekken 6

Just Cause 2 a huge step up from the first

Gary A Swaby — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:25:05 +0000

In this video the creators of Just Cause 2 speak on the new grappling physics in the game, which have been among the things greatly improved in this game. I feel like the first game had great potential but wasn’t executed as well as it could have been. This time it seems like they went back to the drawing board and came up with something that might just be sleeper hit.

Just watch the video.

[Props: Kotaku]

The Office 8th November – Girls Girls Girls

Gary A Swaby — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 02:18:10 +0000

We were in the office chillin, and ruthless kid was giving us mad jokes. So in normal Koalition fashion we hit the record button. Despite all the talk about girls we also have some Dragon Age Origins impressions in there for all you gamers that are a little skeptical about the game.

Apologies for the lack of The Co-Op Podcast but we will be back on a weekly rotation soon enough.

HipHopGamerShow 11/8/09 – Microsoft Countering Sony With Avatar Spaces, Is Home In Trouble?

Gary A Swaby — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 20:09:42 +0000

Here it is, this weeks HipHopGamerShow, don’t miss it.

On this weeks show:
1. EA Guest Stars On The HipHopGamerShow (Bad Company 2)
2. Resident Evil Remastered Collection Coming
3. Game Review – Smackdown 10 (7 out of 10) Good Game
4. AllHipHop.com An Embarrasment To HipHop

[Props to: HipHopGamerShow]

50 Cent new Video – Stretch (Spot the Ps3)

Gary A Swaby — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 18:35:10 +0000

This is the follow up to the video crime wave, this song is called Stretch. Stretch is featured on the new album Before I Self Destruct, which will be in stores on the 16th of November. This is a hilarious video, but see if you can spot the Playstation 3 controller. Usually it’s the Xbox 360 that gets all the cameo appearances these days, but in this video the Playstation 3 controller is clearly visable. Although I don’t think this it’s the same controller that 50 likes to walk around with in the steets, if you get what I’m saying.

Shout outs to This is 50.

Blue Toad Murder Files Eurogamer Expo Interview

Gary A Swaby — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:12:55 +0000

At the Eurogamer Expo we got the chance to hook up with Relentless Studios (who make Buzz for the Playstation 3), and check out their new game Blue Toad Murder Files. Blue Toad Murder Files is a very unique looking murder mystery game which will be available on the Playstation Network exclusively this December. The game will consist of six episodes, which in total will accumulate over 90 puzzles, Whodunnits’, and cross-examinations.

Below I have a fantastic interview with Jade Tidy who represents Relentless Studios, we have a video version but it was ruined due to noise from the expo. So I have worked hard at writing the interview out for all you fans out there. You can still check out the video version of the interview if you wish to however. Also check out the artwork from the game, and thanks again to Relentless Studios.

———-

Gary A Swaby Interviews Jade Tidy of Relentless Studios

Gary A Swaby: Hi jade, we had the privilege of checking out this game yesterday. But could you just tell the fans a little bit about the game.

Jade Tidy: Sure, its called Blue Toad Murder Files. It’s coming out on the playstation network, and will be available in December. You play as a detective; as you begin the game you are having a good time chilling out, until someone gets killed. You then need to figure out who committed the murder. You are introduced to four possible suspects, you then go around the village chatting to the suspects and gathering their alibis. In between this there are puzzles and all kinds of extra clues for the players to figure out.

Gary: That sounds like a very cool concept right there, also unique. Speaking of unique tell us about the art style, because I see it is very fun looking and cartoonish for a murder mystery type of game.

Jade: We made about four or five different prototypes of the game and came up with a bunch of different styles. Then we came up with the sort of Pixar/Disney kind of style and that was a really strong image for us. It was a great job by our artist, and I can’t take any credit for that. It looks great.

Gary: Exactly, I love the art style and the way it looks. So as far as the missions in the game and how the player interacts, could you tell us a little more?

Jade: As a company we like to make games that are easy to interact with, so the challenge should be playing the game aside from actually getting to grips with the controls first. We have controls that are a bit like moving around a board game, so sometimes there’s one location and sometimes there’s multiple ones. So once you pick the location you will then go on to interact with the characters in that specific location. You may then be presented with a scene, and then after that scene you may be presented with a puzzle for instance.

Gary: Just expand on the puzzles for me if that’s ok.

Jade: All the puzzles are different, so they all have their own unique element to them. There is a range of different difficulties on each puzzle, but ultimately it should not be hard for a non gamer to figure them out.

Gary: Ok so would you say this game is very complex, or would you say it’s a very user friendly experience that perhaps a family could enjoy together?

Jade: We really tried to create an element of fun, we don’t try to take ourselves too seriously. We like to work on games where everyone can have fun, so it’s not a serious story where there is lots of blood and gore, it is not that type of game. It’s more about having a laugh as you go along; so it should be a game you could play with your mates, or on a Sunday, or when you have the family around.

Gary: We heard that there will be multiple episodes for the game, so let the fans know exactly how this will work.

Jade: We have 6 episodes in total for the series, two of which come out December the 17th. So you could choose to buy just episode one, or you could buy both episodes together. Then we will be releasing the next four episodes in a similar manner after the New Year. The story continues through, you could play them by themselves as well, you don’t have to play the whole lot. However you will get the full experience if you play them all.

Gary: So is there any chance that the story will continue after the six episodes?

Jade: Maybe not for this particular series, we might move the series to a new location. However we cannot really confirm nothing at the moment, I hope that we will get the chance to though as it has been a great experience for us.

Gary: Ok thanks for your time Jade, the game looks exciting so congratulations. We at the Koalition will let everyone know about the game.

Jade: Are you going to buy it?

Gary: Hell yes, of course.

Jade: (Laughs), thanks guys.

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All images are property of Relentless Studios.