Licensed Game
Ongoing coverage on Licensed Game.
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The Chronicles of Riddick: Escape from Butcher Bay Remains One of the Most Underrated Games Ever
The Chronicles of Riddick: Escape from Butcher Bay is highlighted as an exceptionally underrated game that was a strong contender for Game of the Year upon its release on Xbox. It is noted for transcending the typical quality of licensed video games.
The secret to making a good Star Wars game is to do less - Reader's Feature
This reader's feature argues that successful Star Wars games succeed by focusing on a single core fantasy rather than trying to include every possible element of the universe. Games like TIE Fighter, Republic Commando, and Jedi: Fallen Order are highlighted for their focused design, while others are criticized for becoming unfocused "catalogues" of features. The author suggests that future Star Wars games should prioritize a clear identity and developer confidence in saying 'no' to extraneous features.
Games Inbox: Who are the GTA 6 leakers?
This article discusses the implications of leaks for Grand Theft Auto 6, with readers expressing sympathy for the leakers while acknowledging the severe legal consequences. Other topics include criticism of Electronic Arts executives, praise for the game 007 Legends, and concerns about the impact of live service games and layoffs within the industry.
Remembering The Lord Of The Rings Game That Ripped Off Final Fantasy 10
The Lord of the Rings: The Third Age, developed by EA Redwood Shores, is remembered as a fun, albeit derivative, JRPG that heavily borrowed from Final Fantasy 10's turn-based combat and user interface. Despite its lack of originality, the game offered a compelling story set parallel to the film trilogy, customizable party members, and numerous unlockable movie clips. The article laments the current inaccessibility of the game, suggesting it deserves a remaster.
Batman: Arkham Asylum Marked the End of the ‘Sh*tty Licensed Game’ Era
Batman: Arkham Asylum is highlighted as a pivotal game that redefined the era of licensed video games and developer Rocksteady Studios. The article reflects on how the game's success marked an end to the prevalence of poorly received licensed titles.
Hidden Gems of Game Design Vol 50
This 50th volume of the 'Hidden Gems' feature highlights overlooked games from the past. It discusses Addams Family Values, Wipeout 3: Special Edition, DoDonPachi, Carmageddon, and Disney's Chicken Little, exploring their unique design elements, commercial struggles, and lasting impact.
"This has got to be the most awesome toaster ever": Saber on building upon hits like Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2
Saber Interactive's Chief Creative Officer Tim Willits stated that Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 was a pivotal success that changed how the studio approaches game development and how they are perceived. He indicated that the studio is in a strong position, able to turn down more licensed game opportunities than they accept, and plans to continue working on adaptations of existing properties like Hellraiser and World War Z, noting the success of the latter may even inspire a new movie.
New publisher Trailmark Games promises 'new path forward' for licensed games
Former GameMill Entertainment executives have launched a new publishing company, Trailmark Games, aiming to bring a fresh approach to licensed video games. The company has four titles in development, including The Walking Dead: Streets of Survival, and holds rights to established IPs like Big Buck Hunter and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
New Licensed Video Game Publisher Trailmark Games LLC Announced from The Leadership Team Behind Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl & More
TRAILMARK Games, a new video game publisher founded by former executives from GameMill Entertainment, has officially launched. The company aims to deliver high-quality licensed PC and console titles, with four flagship releases planned for 2026 and 2027, including The Walking Dead: Streets of Survival.
In 007 First Light, The Best Part Of Being Bond Is The Boring Stuff
007 First Light excels by embracing the mundane aspects of being James Bond, moving beyond typical shooter mechanics to create a true "character simulator." Unlike older licensed games that merely retold movie plots, this title allows players to engage with Bond's world through dialogue, gadget interaction, and environmental exploration. The article suggests a sequel should focus on a more experienced Bond, building on the foundation of stealth and gunplay.
007 First Light review - the ultimate James Bond video game
007 First Light is an authentic James Bond adaptation and a masterful action-adventure game that successfully balances storytelling and cinematic spectacle. Developed by IO Interactive, the game features excellent core mechanics including solid combat, driving, and an open-ended exploration system, alongside great storytelling that develops the character of Bond. Despite some pacing issues and long load times, it is considered one of the best licensed video games of all time.
Review: Bluey’s Quest for the Gold Pen (Nintendo Switch 2)
Bluey's Quest for the Gold Pen offers uncomplicated gameplay and callbacks to the popular children's show, making it appealing for young players. However, the game suffers from a lack of variety in mechanics and zones, and a story that doesn't significantly expand upon the Bluey universe. Despite its charming visual aesthetic and decent puzzles, the experience ultimately feels repetitive and lacks depth.
Stone Protectors Review
Stone Protectors, a Super Nintendo beat 'em up released in 1994 by Kemco, is a competent but unremarkable adaptation of its source material. While the game features visually distinct characters based on the animated series and toy line, their gameplay mechanics are identical, offering little depth. The experience is best enjoyed with a second player, but ultimately serves as fan service with limited replay value.
Thomas & Friends: Wonders of Sodor Review | TheXboxHub
Thomas & Friends: Wonders of Sodor is an unexpectedly complex train simulator that surprisingly exists in today's risk-averse market. Developed by Dovetail Games, it offers a simplified yet authentic experience of driving trains on the Island of Sodor, similar to Train Sim World, but with a unique Thomas the Tank Engine theme. Despite some usability issues and a target demographic mismatch, the game successfully captures the spirit of the beloved franchise.
007 First Light passes the James Bond authenticity test - hands-on preview
007 First Light, the first James Bond game in 14 years from developer IO Interactive, aims for high authenticity to the franchise's mythos. This preview highlights the game's blend of stealth, action, and platforming, drawing comparisons to the Uncharted series and IO Interactive's own Hitman. The game features a young James Bond, portrayed by Patrick Gibson, and emphasizes earning the iconic Bond theme through gameplay progression.
Invincible VS review – What could have been
Invincible VS is a tag-team fighting game set in the Prime Video series' universe, featuring many of the original actors. Despite its potential, the game is criticized for its short story mode, repetitive character movesets, and overall barebones content, making it feel like a missed opportunity for the beloved IP. While the core fighting mechanics are solid and there are plans for DLC, the $50 price point makes it a tough sell at launch.
Starship Troopers: Ultimate Bug War review
Starship Troopers: Ultimate Bug War is a dull and uninspired first-person shooter that fails to capture the wit of its source material. The game suffers from low enemy density, repetitive objectives, and a lack of engaging combat mechanics, making it a disappointing experience despite its PC platform release.
In the Absence of Virtua Tennis, Nickelodeon's Wacky Arcade Alternative Steps Up
Nickelodeon Extreme Tennis, developed by Gameloft and Old Skull Games, is set to launch on May 28th. This arcade-style tennis game features 15 characters, including SpongeBob and Garfield, with easy-to-learn controls, a story mode, mini-games, and local multiplayer. The game aims to fill the void left by Virtua Tennis and Hot Shots Tennis, though concerns about choppy frame rates in the trailer have been noted.
Review: Starship Troopers: Ultimate Bug War! Is Just Another Bug Hunt – Entertainium
Starship Troopers: Ultimate Bug War! is a commendable licensed game that expands the franchise's lore with its ultraviolent, fast-paced action shooter gameplay. The PC title features extraordinary level design and humorous propaganda cutscenes, making it a worthwhile experience for fans of the universe.
Thomas & Friends Gets First-Person Gaming Treatment in Wonders of Sodor
Thomas & Friends: Wonders of Sodor has officially launched, offering players a first-person perspective on the Island of Sodor. Developed by Dovetail Games in collaboration with Mattel, the game features eight narrated tales, both classic and original, with the voice of long-time narrator Mark Moraghan. The game emphasizes interactive storytelling and authentic representation of the Thomas & Friends universe, with multiple modes including Timetable, Explore, and Shunting Challenge.
