Hyper 196 Feedback Thread

[Darren]

Yes, it'll be a week late, but with so much stuff packed into Hyper 196, we hope you'll agree that the wait was worth it.

2009 was a huge year for gaming, and in this, our yearbook issue, we cover it all. Month by month, we take you back through the events, the names, and the games that shaped the industry. Then, in Bottom of the Barrel, we dedicate four pages to the worst that 2009 had to offer. From Atkinson to Activision, and everything in between, it's all there.

In a massive feature, we talk to Blizzard about the phenomenon that is World of Warcraft, as well as their plans for the forthcoming Diablo 3. (Release date? That's still "when it's done".) If there's something you wanted to know about either game, chances are you'll find it here.

Our reviews this month take a somewhat different slant. Oh sure, you'll still find the verdicts on Bayonetta, James Cameron's Avatar, Dragon Age: Origins, Demon's Souls, and plenty of others, but we also go where Australia's Classification Board won't let you: we've got the Hyper verdict on the uncut, uncensored Left 4 Dead 2, as well as the totally-RC'd RPG, Risen. Take that, Atkinson!

There's plenty more on offer, too. To skim through the rest: hands-on sessions with Red Dead Redemption and Heavy Rain, a round-up of the year's best DVD/Blu-ray movies and anime, a collection of the best mobile games available, and a look at what happens when a gunnery chief and an Asari scientist walk into a debate hall. Plus an extra something. For you. Because you're special.

So, mark it on the calendar: Hyper 196, on sale from December 30.

http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/6374/hyper1962.jpg

[Sweating Bullets]

Awesome! I love the year in review when it is a few pages long!

[AranchineD]

OOOH DIABLO 3 REVIEW-oh wait, that's not right.

:(

[Watchers]

OOOH DIABLO 3 REVIEW-oh wait, that's not right.

:(

Deliberately confusing cover is confusing...

[Lazlow]

l2read

[Twisted Conspiracy]

I really should subscribe... :rolleyes:

[Mr.Mew]

Oh noes! You've done the "magazing title covered by some graphic" trend thing! People will assume it's called HYFER.

[concrete donkey]

can you tell us what darksiders got please?

[Dynomite]

Damn it. HYPER has gone and done the very same thing I gave hate towards Game Informer.

I know it's too late but could you guys please also give a short impression of the Aussie version of L4D2 as well. I know you guys are reviewing the game as it was intended to play. But can you also give a score for the for the game we are intended, and most gamers will end up buying. Considering you are an Aussie mag and all, catering to the Aussie mag?

[Australian Ninja]

Yes, it'll be a week late, but with so much stuff packed into Hyper 196, we hope you'll agree that the wait was worth it.

http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/6374/hyper1962.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/Jonny9999/nelson-muntz_270x.jpg
That's a pretty expensive cover, you're parent's must be rich. SWANK

[Frostillicus]

What's the name of the artist you hired to do the cover illustration? Or is that an official wallpaper?

[Lazlow]

Pretty sure it'd be offical art from Blizzard.

I brought up a while back that mags used to use artists like Matthew Hatton and Frants Kantor and wondered why it stopped.

IIRC the response was basically licensing issues and cost.

[Daniel]

That's basically it in a nutshell. If I got some custom art that would blow through around half my budget for an issue. I'd love to do it at some stage, but unless we get donations I don't think it's likely any time soon.

On top of paying the artist you also have to get licensing permission for using someone's IP (most of the time anyway). That usually doesn't cost anything, but can take months in legal wrangling and approvals.

[fearofthesky]

The old Matthew Hatton covers were awesome! The Mario Kart 64 cover was my favourite. At least I think that was by him.

[aubergine]

Weren't you going to stick a coverdisc on it or something?

[jawsy]

I would say thanks for the sock, but I ended up having to buy two copies just to be able to wear my shoes with them.

Also...$11.95?

[scoz]

Thanks for the sock :D

Interesting issue. I think there might be a bit of fallout over the Dragon Age review, though I tend to agree with most of the criticisms put forward. I personally enjoyed the Mario Multiplayer, and I would have said that it felt like the Single Player was lacking because IT was tacked on at the last minute, leading to some dodgy difficulty slopes. Different strokes for different folks I guess. The iPhone section (which I find myself flicking straight to nowadays) was enjoyable, but I think saying that Doodle Jump was the best of the year was a bit of a jump (no pun intended). The Worst of '09 was a standout, and I liked the reference to the Junglist debacle. Overall, however, it didn't strike me as a standout issue; perhaps because Sister PCPP was such a revelation this month?

[Citizen Erased]

Still havent got mine yet, its bad enough thats it a week late.

[lex3191]

I went to my local newsagent in melbourne today and it was in, they said the next delivery wasn't until Friday which this Friday is a public holiday. not happy.

[Jickle]

("The rest of the thread diverted into a discussion of what constitutes an RPG, for some reason.")

Classic forums!

[AranchineD]

Yes, this sock is perfect for a DS.



...A DS LITE :(

I really don't think I need anymore reasons to upgrade to a Lite.



Interesting issue. I think there might be a bit of fallout over the Dragon Age review, though I tend to agree with most of the criticisms put forward.

Really? It's pretty much exactly same things that everyone has been saying about the game, really. I agree, it was pretty much spot on.



Also 10/10 for Bayonetta **** YEAH

[BB2K]

So.... They aren't feet socks?

Dissapointing >_>

[Stevorooni]

So what's up with the free penis hat?

[Gameboffin]

Couldn't find it today in WA.

[concrete donkey]

yeah, i couldnt find it in Newcastle today. Putting the release date in the back of the mag isnt really helpful when its always wrong :p

[punkgorilla]

Couldn't find it today in WA.

Me neither, but my local newsagent is fairly slow in putting stock out sometimes.

[Natrak]

("The rest of the thread diverted into a discussion of what constitutes an RPG, for some reason.")

Classic forums!

Outstanding.

[Dynomite]

$11.95?

Let the bears pay the bear tax.

I pay the dynamite tax.

Otherwise the mag is pretty good thus far. I like how you handled the L4D2 review.

[Hotaru_oz]

I went to my local newsagent in Kadina and it wasn't in.
I asked about it and I'll have to wait 2 weeks......>.>
Might try Adelaide on Monday, I really need to subscribe again

[Watchers]

So us subscribers are getting, quite literally, screwed out of our socks?

[Nic Xtreme]

Interesting issue. I think there might be a bit of fallout over the Dragon Age review, though I tend to agree with most of the criticisms put forward.

Ooooh, how did the Dragon Age review go? I won't get my copy till next week but I'm a bit pissed off with Dragon Age right now, as I forked over 40 hours of my life to it but no longer have a will to play it thanks to a certain underground area.

[Stevorooni]

So us subscribers are getting, quite literally, screwed out of our socks?

I got my sock with my subscription issue

[Watchers]

I got my sock with my subscription issue

Whoops. I didn't even notice it there - almost threw it out.

I heartily retract my statement.

[AranchineD]

Hey Watchers, I have to say, I really enjoyed your mention in Jickle's featu-OH WAIT

:cool:

[Stiz]

Ooooh, how did the Dragon Age review go? I won't get my copy till next week but I'm a bit pissed off with Dragon Age right now, as I forked over 40 hours of my life to it but no longer have a will to play it thanks to a certain underground area.

Those effing Deep Roads, right? I feel your pain.

[Watchers]

Hey Watchers, I have to say, I really enjoyed your mention in Jickle's featu-OH WAIT

:cool:

:( I guess I'll just have to make do with my post in the Feedback section, secret mod powers and broadband internet.

But make no mistake, Jickle has made my 'list'.

[Stevorooni]

I was mentioned in Jickle's stupid article! I also got printed in the forum feedback bit too. YEAH. That issue was 0.002% Stevo goodness.

[Jickle]

But make no mistake, Jickle has made my 'list'.

Oh shit, I've heard about that list.

Only I could take take a freelance position in an Australian games mag and wind up the target of international assassins. :(

[aubergine]

The magazine I wrote for was itself assassinated by foreign interests.

I've heard this issue costs more and has one sock on it. Without having seen it yet (though I've been looking) the combination of expense and sock, particularly in an environment with a $4.95 competitor now, sounds like a poor idea. I don't like spending more on things and have too many single socks already.

[Jay]

Oh shit, I've heard about that list.

Only I could take take a freelance position in an Australian games mag and wind up the target of international assassins. :(

Hey! Where's my mention? Do I have to content myself with Gamer Limit article mentions? :p

I even mentioned you in my review of Fifa for PH! Albeit probably not one you're happy with... :)

BTW, went to buy it today - no sign of it.

[Jickle]

Hey! Where's my mention?

In the article, actually. >_>

[Jay]

haha, don't i look the fool - again!

I tried to find it today (the mag, not the mention), but nothing doing.

[Citizen Erased]

Where's my elephant ?

[Watchers]

So is Staines actually going to create the thread for his column this time? HMMM?

[drzaius]

anyone seen it in WA?

[Citizen Erased]

anyone seen it in WA?

Nope.

[Mr.Mew]

Looked everywhere, either it's not in or the store only brought in one ****ing copy. I can't last much longer without my fix FFFFFF

[lex3191]

i've been to three stores in melbourne and no dice

[fearofthesky]

Nothing in 4 Perth CBD newsagents...

[aubergine]

So is Staines actually going to create the thread for his column this time? HMMM?

I only finally found last month's Hyper in my bedside stack and read the column. I doubt I would have wanted to talk further about the competing political systems proposed by the multiple Deus Ex endings, and apparently he didn't either.

[McChimp]

I went to my local newsagent in Kadina and it wasn't in.
I asked about it and I'll have to wait 2 weeks......>.>
Might try Adelaide on Monday, I really need to subscribe again

Yeah, I need to subscribe, as ALL my local newsagents haven't got it yet, DAMMIT!!

[ireadtabloids]

Dear Hyper
Thank you for the mobile phone protector enclosed in issue 196 that I received on the evening of January 2nd. I was in great need of one and I will assuredly repay your kindness by renewing my subscription.
Yours sincerely
Tabs

Yes, I knew it was meant to be a stocking, but that fact alone gave me no end of amusement. I will be prepared next year!

[Mr.Mew]

Out of morbid concern, has this screwup in magazine distribution affected the income of our beloved Hyper at all?

I blame Game Informer... it was all their doing.

[Daniel]

Nah, things have just been shifted by a week for the next few months, and a 5 week on sale issue later in the year will now only be 4 weeks. Business as usual.

[Space_Monkey]

Yeah, I need to subscribe, as ALL my local newsagents haven't got it yet, DAMMIT!!

Same. :(

[Lazlow]

Same!

[Daniel]

I'll see what I can do to find out what's going on with distribution, but the office is closed for another week so my resources are limited.

[McChimp]

Got it!! YEAH!!!! *Pumps fist like a slaptard*
Looks like it'll be an awesome read this month (not that it's ever NOT a good read).
Gaming sock = now being worn on my wrist (just 'cos).

[dinnerordie17]

I love how you reviewed the uncensored L4D2 and didnt take the crap castrated versian.... unlike some magasines *cough* PCPP *cough*

.... i still wuv you though....

[A2ra3l]

Lol, my subscription showed up today with the wonderful sock :P
It actually fits my psp in it quite well, was looking for a case to keep it safe.

Nice issue so far, just flicked through but some good reviews. A bit of a different idea with giving the new super mario brothers review to dan then adding a disclaimer to ignore his opinion because he hates everything, lol.

anyway off to read it now
Az

[Hotaru_oz]

Manage to grab the last copy at my newsagent, complete with sock.
Is it just me or does the mag seem thinner than the last one?

[RunningMild]

The past two years in a row, I bought the first issue of the year from the newsagents and then received my sub a few days later. This time, I'm going to wait... :p

[Antwandemarco]

Hmm good issue. Although the review of mario was a little harsh. Sure it's more of the same, but i have not enjoyed a multiplayer game this much since L4D came out.

[lex3191]

managed to snag the last copy at my newsagent too. very happy to have my copy looks like it will be another great read.

[Citizen Erased]

Got my copy today, Im happy that I didnt have to wait till wednesday.

Oh and thanks for the sock. >>

[punkgorilla]

Picked my issue up today.

For the first time in a long time I actually enjoyed the letters section. The first letter was excellent and it's nice to see more people having that line of thought. Gaming would be in a better place if more people were like that. Also the rest of them (well, most of them) were hilarious. Unintentionally perhaps, but hilarious nonetheless.

[concrete donkey]

Manage to grab the last copy at my newsagent, complete with sock.
Is it just me or does the mag seem thinner than the last one?

Yeah, it is thinner, and yeah it is more expensive. $11.95 seems a tad expensive. (and no, the cock sock dosnt make up for the price increase) Really, the price is approaching that of other mags that include a disc of demos etc. What is hyper going to offer?

[Thraxas]

Still can't get this anywhere... but I'm cheap and I don't know if I want to pay $12 particularly when I could get that new mag for $5

[concrete donkey]

Still can't get this anywhere... but I'm cheap and I don't know if I want to pay $12 particularly when I could get that new mag for $5

to be honest, if you havnt bought the mag yet, its not worth it. not for $12

[Daniel]

One issue price rise, and the mag is the same size as ever. The question is whether you want a magazine with local content, written for a local market, or whether you want repackaged American content.

[BB2K]

One issue price rise, and the mag is the same size as ever. The question is whether you want a magazine with Jickle, or whether you want repackaged American content.

Fixed

[Jickle]

Fixed

I doubt I'm the main attraction; sales of Jickle brand bath-salts are down 30%.

[Gameboffin]

One issue price rise, and the mag is the same size as ever. The question is whether you want a magazine with local content, written for a local market, or whether you want repackaged American content.

But Game Informer are 'ocker Aussie mate'. They even used the words 'ute' and 'billabong' in an obviously-written-by-an-American-review.

[concrete donkey]

One issue price rise, and the mag is the same size as ever. The question is whether you want a magazine with local content, written for a local market, or whether you want repackaged American content.

By local content you mean articles like Dan Staines? His column about mass effect characters was a load of rubbish, a total waste of a page. Was it supposed to be funny? Informative? i wouldve preferred another preview or review than whatever he put to page. This isnt the first time his published tripe in here either, remember his theme about making games or some such crap? hell, i wouldve found the US and JPN game sales figures more informative or enjoyable.

[Lazlow]

By local content you mean articles like Dan Staines?

I think they mean local content in the sense that everything is written, edited, designed, published and packaged in Australia by Australian staff.

[Stiz]

His column about mass effect characters was a load of rubbish, a total waste of a page. Was it supposed to be funny? Informative?

It was written specifically to annoy you, much like how Game Theory was written to antagonise my other hated enemy, aubergine.

Honestly, though, I'm in two minds about the column myself. I like the basic concept, but on reflection, I dunno if it suits a column format. Maybe it would've worked better as a feature. You'd still hate it, of course - because I want you to.

[benz1980i]

One issue price rise, and the mag is the same size as ever. The question is whether you want a magazine with local content, written for a local market, or whether you want repackaged American content.

I am disappointed with the price raise. I saw it at my local newsagent today. I had a look at the front and back cover and the only review I was intrested in was Modren Warfare 2 and I bought the game back in November!
This is the first issue of Hyper I wont be buying since issue 4 back in 1995.
I think the price rise came at a bad time. If there were really big game releases to make it more appealing (more intresting content) then I would have grabbed it in a second, but a sock?

[Hotaru_oz]

I'm not really too fussed about the price rise, the mag is still cheaper than other gaming magazines put there and I'm on a tight budget so I don't spend much money on things like that.

[Antwandemarco]

I doubt I'm the main attraction; sales of Jickle brand bath-salts are down 30%.

Damnit Jickle if you can't move sandlewood in this business you're finished!

[jawsy]

One issue price rise, and the mag is the same size as ever.

Just to clarify; a price rise for this issue only? So does that mean we actually had to pay for the free gift?

[Jay]

Hey jawsy, you're a Brunswick boy - have you managed to pick it up? I looked in at Barkly Square but no joy.

[punkgorilla]

Just to clarify; a price rise for this issue only? So does that mean we actually had to pay for the free gift?

Doesn't the yearbook issue usually cost more anyway?

[Daniel]

Yearbook always costs a little more

[Stevorooni]

You slags should just subscribe to save money

[jawsy]

Hey jawsy, you're a Brunswick boy - have you managed to pick it up? I looked in at Barkly Square but no joy.

I scored mine in NSW when I was visiting the folks. But I guess that doesn't help you (unless you're keen for an 8 hour drive).

Why does the yearbook issue cost more?

[REQUIEM]

Yeah picked up a copy of hyper for the first time for 6 or so months, saw $12.95 and put it back down. The reviews were so old it wasnt a worthy purchase IMO. Its a shame the mag has decided to go over the $10 price tag, I curse the new owners at Next media.

[aubergine]

I have a supernatural ability to flip to the worst aspects of a magazine first, it seems.

Too expensive. You get a DVD with PCPP for that much. $10 is straining the friendship as it is, and Game Informer may rape your gilded $12 arseholes. Bad form to put a giveaway on the cover then charge for it. What am I supposed to do with this thing, wank into it? IT'S NOT LONG ENOUGH.

Next time Wells says he's run out of ideas, don't tell him to write about that, because it bored me off the page before I reached the second column of text. Next time just say "It's Christmas, be as self indulgent as you want. We'll charge them extra for it."

Why have you reviewed all these worthy games on one or two pages then given four pages to that steamer Avatar? Is it because you wanted to use every screencap they provided?

Why spend four pages on a game when the entire info provided on the first two pages is "Avatar supports 3D but you can't afford a compatible television, go figure." Wells doesn't start describing the game until the last column of the second page... Too busy describing his ****ing clothes. Sorry Darren, but this was a self-indulgent load of padded crap about a game that warranted a single page. Try reading Paul Kim's review of Modern Warfare 2. It's about the game. It contains brevity. It's not a dear diary entry about the trivial aspects of his day.

[Jay]

I scored mine in NSW when I was visiting the folks. But I guess that doesn't help you (unless you're keen for an 8 hour drive).

Why does the yearbook issue cost more?

Ha ha cheers. I just saw it in the Bark's newsagent an hour ago and forgot to go back and buy it after I'd finished in Coles. :(

[concrete donkey]

Just to clarify; a price rise for this issue only? So does that mean we actually had to pay for the free gift?

haha, it would appear so! or, we're paying for the extra column, like dan staines opus. If it is there to annoy me, why would i by a mag to read its annoying contents? Dan Staines and Eleanors columns are a waste of space. Ditch their shit and give us something useful. I'd like the report from Japan back again, or like i mentioned before, the japanese and us game sales figures. ANYTHING is better than the tripe theyre putting out. I mean really, what the **** was that mass effect shit supposed to be about?

[/backslash]

$12.95?! Yikes, I'm going to skip on this - especially since its a yearbook issue which I tend to dislike

[Lazlow]

Dare say the plastic + dick warmer = additional $3

[Nicko]

I noticed on the inside of the back cover of this issue it's advertising a new Hyper Posters magazine, but i can't seem to find it anywhere.

Can i get it online somewhere?

[Jickle]

Incidently the price is $11.95, not $12.95. In case a dollar makes a huge difference to anyone. :p If anyone does want a sock it's actually very good value, since those things tend to sell for between 6 and 10 dollars.

[/backslash]

What kind of sock?...I want photos!

[BB2K]

Dan Staines and Eleanors columns are a waste of space. Ditch their shit and give us something useful.

You're a ****ing moron, mate. Admittedly I don't like Dan's column so much, though he's generally a brilliant writer, but Eleanor's column is easily the most consistently excellent page on Hyper. Opinions columns and features are really what makes a difference between any magazines.

[Watchers]

I'd be happier if Staines wrote something more humourous for his column - since he tends to do great at that.

[Darren]

Next time Wells says he's run out of ideas, don't tell him to write about that, because it bored me off the page before I reached the second column of text. Next time just say "It's Christmas, be as self indulgent as you want. We'll charge them extra for it."

Why have you reviewed all these worthy games on one or two pages then given four pages to that steamer Avatar? Is it because you wanted to use every screencap they provided?

Why spend four pages on a game when the entire info provided on the first two pages is "Avatar supports 3D but you can't afford a compatible television, go figure." Wells doesn't start describing the game until the last column of the second page... Too busy describing his ****ing clothes. Sorry Darren, but this was a self-indulgent load of padded crap about a game that warranted a single page. Try reading Paul Kim's review of Modern Warfare 2. It's about the game. It contains brevity. It's not a dear diary entry about the trivial aspects of his day.

Wow. Okay.

I approached the Avatar review in a slightly different manner because of the game's unique 3D aspect. This was something that I felt warranted discussion and analysis, so I wanted to spend some time exploring not only what it meant for the game specifically, but what it meant for gaming as a whole. Good game or bad, it's exciting to see new ground being broken, so why not allow the occasional opportunity to talk about it?

As for the reviews intro piece, I'm sorry my message of off-the-clock gaming didn't appeal to you, and I can only hope that you'll enjoy next month's piece.

[punkgorilla]

I mean really, what the **** was that mass effect shit supposed to be about?

The way I see it is that the article is an exploration of one of Mass Effects most complex player decisions, discussed through the perspective of two Mass Effect characters. It's an interesting, creative way of looking at the potential demands a game can place on the players own morals. Personally I see nothing with looking at a game a little deeper than most gaming press, which only seem to be as thoughtful as 'buy or not buy'.

Also, those sales charts you're after. Get them here. (http://www.vgchartz.com/) They'll be more up to date than any print gaming media could provide. If Hyper were to put these charts in, you'd probably just complain that they are over a month old.

[Nicko]

I noticed on the inside of the back cover of this issue it's advertising a new Hyper Posters magazine, but i can't seem to find it anywhere.

Can i get it online somewhere?

Sorry to bring this to attention again, but could i ask again if anyone has seen a Hyper Posters magazine anywhere, or if i could get it online anywhere?

Thanks for any replies.

[punkgorilla]

Both my local newsagents have several copies

[Nicko]

Both my local newsagents have several copies

Aww lucky. I've to 5 now, and no luck. Even the one at Sydney central station.

[Dick Kittenheart]

The sock confounds me. At least my DS is keeping warm...

[Critical_Critic]

Bah! I have a complaint!
In the 'Top 5 Game Franchises That Deserve A Comeback' article, page 91, in the bit about Jet Grind Radio, you say: "Then there's the games centreal them of antiestablishmentarianism ("Achievement Unlocked: Longest Word in Hyper!"). "
It's called a trophy, you numbnuts.

[jawsy]

Creedy's brother?

[Lazlow]

Hilariously tragic.

[concrete donkey]

Creedy's brother?

hahahaha

[aubergine]

You mis-spelled antidisestablishmenttourism.

[FX-GTZ]

Dont know why, but your latest issue feels like a nerdrage fest. But i suppose you did it in good intention's, i would've bought Left 4 Dead 2 if it wasnt for Atkinson and he's stupid ass belief's.

[Zeph101]

Aww lucky. I've to 5 now, and no luck. Even the one at Sydney central station.

Unfortunately for you, Melbourne seems to have a lot of them.

[ErinMarcon]

My local finally stocked the new issue yesterday. Superb as always.

When I sit down to write about the great moments of 2010, the arrival of my very own Hyper-branded game sock will be hard to top.

[Lazlow]

(And that you'll still consider our Bayonetta review to be the first, so Wilks doesn't look like too much of a hypocrite. You'll see.)

Just read his column... I see. :p

[Australian Ninja]

So what is the item attached to the magazine already? Still on holiday, so I have not seen it

[aubergine]

Can you not read the thread? It's one-third of a sock, valued at $2.

[BB2K]

Nothing to do with this issue, but I found an incredibly old issue of Hyper in a box, I'm guessing it's around issue 120, which is way before I was getting Hyper, so I have no clue how it got there. My point is Dan Staines was heavily featured and had some kind of afro looking haircut.

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/nn40/BrokenBenjamin2000/DanStaines.jpg

[Jamin]

Hey hyper dudes, remember me? I ranted when the price went up to $10 but still caved ang kept buying cause the last decade of purchasing has formed a habit, but now it's time to kick that habit. Seriously, $12? Thinner mag? I buy my socks at taget for $10 a 3 pack, how can they value of that sock be $20 was it made on the moon or in china? The first mistake hyper ever made was all those years ago when they started putting adds between the reviews but then it was all good to 2009 (the year of the price rises).
Sorry Hyper but I'm out for good this time, I'll have to read old magazines while on the toilet from now on......

[BB2K]

Did you not read that it was a one time price rise on account of it being the yearbook issue?

[Lazlow]

Thinner mag?

OMG!

It's still 98pp + cover... just like last months issue.

he first mistake hyper ever made was all those years ago when they started putting adds between the reviews

Assuming you mean advertisements... you gripe about the price, but also wish to restrict their ad' space. You can't have it both ways.

I haven't checked, but its entirely possible that due to the end of year features included, and the same page count as last month, there could be less advertising in this issue.

[FX-GTZ]

Hey hyper dudes, remember me? I ranted when the price went up to $10 but still caved ang kept buying cause the last decade of purchasing has formed a habit, but now it's time to kick that habit. Seriously, $12? Thinner mag? I buy my socks at taget for $10 a 3 pack, how can they value of that sock be $20 was it made on the moon or in china? The first mistake hyper ever made was all those years ago when they started putting adds between the reviews but then it was all good to 2009 (the year of the price rises).
Sorry Hyper but I'm out for good this time, I'll have to read old magazines while on the toilet from now on......

A good quality magazine is worth the extra bucks, despite this issue having quite a few misspells, which is easily overlooked if it's a word your capable of reading correctly despite it being misspelt.

[Jay]

A good quality magazine is worth the extra bucks, despite this issue having quite a few misspells, which is easily overlooked if it's a word your capable of reading correctly despite it being misspelt.

Such as...? :p

Man, if that was deliberate then it was brilliant. If it was an accident, then it's still brilliant, but for different reasons.

[Darren]

Hey hyper dudes, remember me? I ranted when the price went up to $10 but still caved ang kept buying cause the last decade of purchasing has formed a habit, but now it's time to kick that habit. Seriously, $12? Thinner mag? I buy my socks at taget for $10 a 3 pack, how can they value of that sock be $20 was it made on the moon or in china? The first mistake hyper ever made was all those years ago when they started putting adds between the reviews but then it was all good to 2009 (the year of the price rises).
Sorry Hyper but I'm out for good this time, I'll have to read old magazines while on the toilet from now on......
So you're giving up on buying the magazine because the yearbook issue -- which normally costs an extra dollar anyway -- comes with the same number of pages, no longer puts ads in between game reviews, and gives you an onsert as an extra way to mark the issue's yearbook status?

(FYI: If your ruler does indeed indicate a thinner mag, that's likely due to a change in paper stock by the printers. As numerous others have pointed out, the page count is unchanged.)

[aubergine]

So you're giving up on buying the magazine because the yearbook issue -- which normally costs an extra dollar anyway -- comes with the same number of pages, no longer puts ads in between game reviews, and gives you an onsert as an extra way to mark the issue's yearbook status?

(FYI: If your ruler does indeed indicate a thinner mag, that's likely due to a change in paper stock by the printers. As numerous others have pointed out, the page count is unchanged.)
Sorry Darren, but regardless of whatever arguments make sense to you guys in the office there, this issue feels like a rip-off. The price has been raised 20% - double the "normally" price rise of a dollar - and the product itself does not create the impression of any greater value, of having received anything more. The sock-thing is the worst onsert since Total Gamer put an egg sandwich on the cover. AND THAT NEVER ACTUALLY HAPPENED and the magazine was cheap.

Coming what feels very soon after a price rise to $10, and given that PCPowerplay comes with a DVD or can be bought for what, $7 without it? - this price is really off-putting to me and surely to other people too. Defend your reasoning all you want, but we're the ones with the cash you want, right? and, like, the internet has free game reviews on it.

I don't desire a reply from you or anyone about it, but you guys should think on it. I don't envy you the pressure that the current environment may have brought on - economic crisis, $4.95 juggernaut competitor, free internet competition - and I'd rather not see Hyper go under.

Something to think about is, if the internet has it for free, why do people buy the magazine at all? If you want to have onserts, I'd think about something which is collectible over the course of a year to appeal to your core readership, which I'd suggest are the sort of people who collect things they don't need for their percieved collectible nature.

[AranchineD]

Yes, you stingy bastards, you should just lose profits on this magazine because you decided to put more content in it, I mean COME ON, what kind of heartless corporation shills are you to even think about making that extra work worth your time?

[Jay]

I quite liked the yearbook, tbh. I thought it had a decent amount of content, and apart from one or two sections the layout was up to the usual standard. I disagreed with Staines re: NSMBWii, but I generally disagree with him anyway, despite enjoying most of what he writes. As for the 'onsert' (you learn a new word every day - use it thrice and it's yours for life!), I didn't have an issue with it one way or the other. It's for a mobile phone, yes? It doesn't look like it would fit a DS. As far an onserts go it's a bit meh, but who really cares?

I did like that it says on the bag 'Not suitable for children under 5', and yet everyone here is calling it a sock, which, if true, will only fit on children under 5. Ironic onsert (yes! three times - mine for life!) ftw!

[Stiz]

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/nn40/BrokenBenjamin2000/DanStaines.jpg
That stupid photo. I don't even remember what I was laughing at.

[Jickle]

I actually quite like the sock, it's keeping my new DSi fairly dust-free.

[Jay]

Ah, so it does fit a DSi! Or did you get a big one because you write for the darn mag? :p

EDIT: Ah it's a perfect fit! Actually increases my impression of the onsert (four times) tenfold. Cheers Hyper!

[Stevorooni]

I've been using mine for my DSLite, it's pretty handy

[Australian Ninja]

Yes, you stingy bastards, you should just lose profits on this magazine because you decided to put more content in it, I mean COME ON, what kind of heartless corporation shills are you to even think about making that extra work worth your time?

YES, this.

I quite liked the yearbook, tbh. I thought it had a decent amount of content, and apart from one or two sections the layout was up to the usual standard. I disagreed with Staines re: NSMBWii, but I generally disagree with him anyway, despite enjoying most of what he writes.

I disagree with just about every review I've read by Staines, so when I see one by him I become MORE interested in the game. However I really enjoy his other writing and bits over the years for hyper, but not so much some of the recent articles that seemed a bit lazy. (He can do way better based on mag features in the past, that's all I'm saying).

I've been using mine for my DSLite, it's pretty handy

Clearly you fail to understand the concept of a sock. That's the wrong extremity.

Can you not read the thread? It's one-third of a sock, valued at $2.

I don't always wade through 10+ pages of stuff to find some piece of inconsequential info that may or may not be there. So it was simpler to just ask, but thanks for satisfying my curiosity anyhow

[Tonez]

haha Nice article Jickle. What forum competition did I win?

[Jickle]

haha Nice article Jickle. What forum competition did I win?

I went into the Interesting Developments thread and said "next person to post gets mentioned in Hyper, kgo". Aran was first to reply: his post simply read 'Tonez'.

[Tonez]

I went into the Interesting Developments thread and said "next person to post gets mentioned in Hyper, kgo". Aran was first to reply: his post simply read 'Tonez'.

hahahaha Well you're both very lucky.

You might be slightly worried about Watchers but imagine if I hadn't been in the article. I may have had to kill you.

[Australian Ninja]

Stop making sense

[Jamin]

Did you not read that it was a one time price rise on account of it being the yearbook issue?

Why pay extra for a year book when I have the years worth of mags stacked on a shelf, I can look back at them if need toilet reading. If thats the case though I will buy next month.

[Daniel]

Yearbook does not mean reprints. All content is original (aside from the year's scorelist)

[Stevorooni]

So are you currently rolling around naked in all the extra money you made by increasing the price for a month?

[Jay]

They'd only be gold coins, which tend to get into uncomfortable places when you roll around in them. Or, er, so I've heard... :p

[Stevorooni]

I think if anyone ever dove into a giant pile of coins like Scrooge McDuck, they'd probably die instantly.

[SOX]

Probably already covered but was this issue meant to be sold for $12? Cause I picked up a copy and it had a sock packed with it and a $12 price tag and put it right back down again.

[Lazlow]

You serious?

Because this has been a 100+ thread of people bitching about the sock & $12 price tag.

[FX-GTZ]

If your willing to buy PCPP monthly for $12.95, then buying a one off $12 hyper mag is not gonna make much of a difference in terms of pricing. Dont be such selfish/bickering buyers, a few extra bucks will not kill your wallet, relax you'll still have plenty of change for a bite to eat if your in need.

[grimace06]

Stop whining people - there are lower quality magazines out there that cost much more.

[SOX]

You serious?

Because this has been a 100+ thread of people bitching about the sock & $12 price tag.

I read exactly none of these pages.
$12 can **** right off.

And ftr I haven't missed an issue since May 2001.

If your willing to buy PCPP monthly for $12.95, then buying a one off $12 hyper mag is not gonna make much of a difference in terms of pricing. Dont be such selfish/bickering buyers, a few extra bucks will not kill your wallet, relax you'll still have plenty of change for a bite to eat if your in need.

I'm not willing to buy PCPP for $12.95

[aubergine]

If your willing to buy PCPP monthly for $12.95, then buying a one off $12 hyper mag is not gonna make much of a difference in terms of pricing. Dont be such selfish/bickering buyers, a few extra bucks will not kill your wallet, relax you'll still have plenty of change for a bite to eat if your in need.

I sometimes buy the DVD-Less $6.95 issue of PC Powerplay.

Pretty sure the Hyper accounting department would prefer the market let them know their pricing is disagreeable this way then simply stop buying the magazine next month.

[FX-GTZ]

I'm not willing to buy PCPP for $12.95
Dude, it used to be $16, and still came with a side A, side B dvd. The dvd alone save's me a few gigs on demo downloads and graphics card updates. And here you are saying your not willing to buy it for $12.95?

[Lazlow]

I read exactly none of these pages.

On internet message boards, it helps to read

[aubergine]

I think he's just saying he doesn't want PC Powerplay, but you illustrate yourself why Hyper does not seem like good value.

[SOX]

On internet message boards, it helps to read
Not reading and just posting worked just as well in this instance.

[REQUIEM]

I had bought every hyper issue then when next media took over my dam 24 month subscription ran out and the cost had risen by $50 for the 24 month sub and it was purely a principle choice not to renew it. It had nothing to do with lack of content or quality.

[Stevorooni]

You people suck. Prices rise, deal with it.
You probably waste more money on snacks and alcohol than you do on a slight monthly price increase.

[jawsy]

Not the point at all, Stevo.

[Stevorooni]

Why don't you just marry the point then?

[ireadtabloids]

Just like to say I loved the issue. I went out and watched Princess Bride again straight after finishing it. :D My nieces loved it!

[Mr.Mew]

Just wanted to comment on Darren Wells "Reality Bytes". It's nice to know that people, who are quite analytical (towards games [and are paid to be so, etc.]), can pull themselves out of the habit and just game. One thing that annoyed me being involved in an industry where you're being taught to pick up on all the things that are wrong with something was, is this going to effect me when I'm just playing for fun; or along the lines of would it deter me from enjoying something I love from the past that I've played/watched. Dylan Burns also brushed along that topic too. But yeah, just thought that was cool.

[concrete donkey]

To Daniel: out of curiosity, does the price go back to $9.95? and was the one issue price increase a way of breaking us into a higher price point in a few months, slowly going to sneak up to $11.95?

[aubergine]

Next was bought by a Zionist conspiracy of Jewish bankers and Masonic devil-touchers! Their hook-nosed secret-handshake One World Government greed marks the beginning of the end of something!

[concrete donkey]

Next was bought by a Zionist conspiracy of Jewish bankers and Masonic devil-touchers! Their hook-nosed secret-handshake One World Government greed marks the beginning of the end of something!

lol, i knew i was onto something!

[Darren]

Just wanted to comment on Darren Wells "Reality Bytes". It's nice to know that people, who are quite analytical (towards games [and are paid to be so, etc.]), can pull themselves out of the habit and just game. One thing that annoyed me being involved in an industry where you're being taught to pick up on all the things that are wrong with something was, is this going to effect me when I'm just playing for fun; or along the lines of would it deter me from enjoying something I love from the past that I've played/watched. Dylan Burns also brushed along that topic too. But yeah, just thought that was cool.
Thank you! Glad you liked it! :)

[Hotaru_oz]

I've finally managed grab some free time and have little read.
Reading that news article about Michael Atkinson has convinced me of how much of a tool he is even more so.
Also thanks for the sock, my DS finally has a home :).

[Daniel]

To Daniel: out of curiosity, does the price go back to $9.95? and was the one issue price increase a way of breaking us into a higher price point in a few months, slowly going to sneak up to $11.95?

One off means one off. It's back to $9.95 as of 197.

[aubergine]

But 2000 will be a half-sized triple-price issue with some underpants.

[Australian Ninja]

Next was bought by a Zionist conspiracy of Jewish bankers and Masonic devil-touchers! Their hook-nosed secret-handshake One World Government greed marks the beginning of the end of something!

So the next freebie will be *fingers crossed* some black market Bio-Mods then?

[PrattP]

I bought Hyper for the first time in a while the other week and noticed the price rise, and then driving home noticed a price rise in petrol. I did the same with Hyper as I did with fuel - dealt with it.

Still yet to unwrap, will get around to it soon! Glad to see it still on the shelf. :)


PS. I didn't make it home that day however because the extra dollars I had went to the magazine and not to fuel, but it's OK I only got raped by that bitch with a missing tooth that lives on the corner once this time, which happens to be a new county record (yay!).

[Australian Ninja]

I bought Hyper for the first time in a while the other week and noticed the price rise, and then driving home noticed a price rise in petrol. I did the same with Hyper as I did with fuel - dealt with it.

Still yet to unwrap, will get around to it soon! Glad to see it still on the shelf. :)


PS. I didn't make it home that day however because the extra dollars I had went to the magazine and not to fuel, but it's OK I only got raped by that bitch with a missing tooth that lives on the corner once this time, which happens to be a new county record (yay!).

Lucky bastard, at least you didn't have to pay the toothless crone.

[TimmyJ]

I remember saying something along these lines this time last year,but anyway,the yearbook issues are great.

[Cian]

When's the game of the year issue out? I couldn't find it over the weekend.

[RunningMild]

Bought it today, clearly my sub won't kick in until next month.

Hmm good issue. Although the review of mario was a little harsh. Sure it's more of the same, but i have not enjoyed a multiplayer game this much since L4D came out.

I disagree, I thought the comments about it being 'depressingly unimaginative' and 'if you had a machine that created Mario levels with the push of a big red button this is what you'd get' were spot-on. :p

[aubergine]

All this innovation seemed to go on between Super Mario Bros 1, 2 and 3 and then, nothing.

I wish they'd just give the first 4 Super Mario games a reskin and then close their doors forever.

[concrete donkey]

All this innovation seemed to go on between Super Mario Bros 1, 2 and 3 and then, nothing.

I wish they'd just give the first 4 Super Mario games a reskin and then close their doors forever.

I dont understand why people want to play these old 2D style games. Ive been playing them since the atari 2600... why make yourself play them now? Donkey kong country took 2D gaming to as far as it can go. Time to let go. These fools will buy anything with the name 'mario' on it regardless of how good it is.

[TimmyJ]

Dunno, the 2D Mario games (in particular Yoshi's Island) are still some of the best games I've played. It's actually still fun today. The art style and egg cursor never get old.

[RunningMild]

I dont understand why people want to play these old 2D style games. Ive been playing them since the atari 2600... why make yourself play them now? Donkey kong country took 2D gaming to as far as it can go. Time to let go.

There's a shitload of 2D games available on download services (XBLA, PSN, Steam) and handheld consoles (DS, PSP, iPhone) which show that 2D gaming has gone light years further than DKC, and can go even further.

Most... no screw that, ALL of the most creative and innovative games of the last few years are 2D games.

These fools will buy anything with the name 'mario' on it regardless of how good it is

So how would you explain a 2D game selling well without the name 'Mario' on it? A game doesn't have to be in 3D to be good.

[Super Sleuth]

I dont understand why people want to play these old 2D style games. Ive been playing them since the atari 2600... why make yourself play them now? Donkey kong country took 2D gaming to as far as it can go. Time to let go. These fools will buy anything with the name 'mario' on it regardless of how good it is.


Supreme douche bag or ultra troll?

[Frostillicus]

I agree with concrete donkey.
DK country games took it as far as it can go. These phony 'New' Mario Bros games add nothing new

EDIT: Perhaps i should be referring to 'horizontal platformer games', rather than '2d games'

[Ryan Hayward]

Have you guys at hyper thought about covering some older games in your magazine, like playing through some under-rated classics and seeing how they hold up today?

I recently played Mark of Kri on the playstation 2 which came out in 2003 and it totally knocked my socks off! The combat was marvellous as was the bird which you had to use to scout the locations so you can perform stealth kills and work out how to approach situations. The level design was simply amazing all the way through it. Even the last level with the respawning zombies was fantastic as there was a finite amount of time in which they respawned and chopping them up with the axe was so bloody satisfying. The final room of the last level was simply like something out of Kill Bill. You literally had to kill over hundred enemies and I finally completed it with one remaining unit of health. The trick to beating the game is to block and wait patiently. Mind you, you could still take some damage from a group of axe wielders and from arrows while blocking. Sometimes you had to swing that axe in a 360 motion like a mother****er, so thrilling as it sends the foes scattering.
My one complaint with the game is it was left me hungry for more. At only around 8 hours, it was over far too quickly. But boy is it worth another playthrough, just to master some of those disgustingly devastating combos, impaling enemies and chopping their heads clean off just never got old.

Oh and King of Fighters 2002 is another game I can't get enough off. I bought a couple of powerwave controllers as the Dpads on those PS2 controllers are as good as what you got with the Dreamcast. Its slightly loose and larger than the Dpad on the xbox, perfect for flawlessly executing special movies.

[RunningMild]

I agree with concrete donkey.
DK country games took it as far as it can go. These phony 'New' Mario Bros games add nothing new

EDIT: Perhaps i should be referring to 'horizontal platformer games', rather than '2d games'

Dude, I agree that those phony 'new' Mario Bros games add nothing new, but they aren't the only 'horizontal platformer games' that have been released since the DKC trilogy.

What about Castlevania: Symphony of the Night (or any of the other Metroidvanias)? What about Oddworld: Abe's Oddysee/Exoddus, or Braid, or 'Splosion Man, or Shadow Complex, or Mega Man 9, or Prinny: Can I Really Be The Hero, or Contra 4? I'd rate most of those games above the DKC trilogy any day of the week.

Or, if you want to talk strictly in terms of adding new ideas to the formula, how about Loco Roco, Yoshi Touch and Go, Henry Hatsworth, Prince of Persia: The Fallen King, Chronos Twin, Lucidity, N+, and so on?

You're kidding yourself if you think the DKC trilogy took the genre as far as it could go. DKC barely scratched the surface of what the genre has since become.

[RunningMild]

According to Jickle, "The Wii actually had some games worth buying this year." Wow, we must have been playing different Wiis. :p

Every Wii game I played or was interested in in 2009 was a huge disappointment (except for Wii Sports Resort). I actually think there were more games worth buying in 2008.

I do agree that Earthworm Jim deserves a comeback though. ;)

[Australian Ninja]

According to Jickle, "The Wii actually had some games worth buying this year." Wow, we must have been playing different Wiis. :p

Every Wii game I played or was interested in in 2009 was a huge disappointment (except for Wii Sports Resort). I actually think there were more games worth buying in 2008.

I do agree that Earthworm Jim deserves a comeback though. ;)


Seconded

He's the only reason to play Clay Fighter 2 before you turn it off in disgust and go back to lookin at the lovely renders of how it SHOULD have looked (well at least on a PC)

[Jickle]

According to Jickle, "The Wii actually had some games worth buying this year." Wow, we must have been playing different Wiis. :p

I guess you never played Little King's Story! I also really liked Punch-Out, House of the Dead, Deadly Creatures, Broken Sword, Mad World (the first half of it at least) and a few other games.

[Jay]

Not to mention NyxQuest, Grand Slam Tennis, Tiger Woods 10, and, of course, NSMBWii, which despite your assessment, is actually a pretty great game with a couple of shortcomings.

[RunningMild]

Obviously this is just my opinion and I respect yours too, but:

Punch-OutI have the NES version on VC, and even the most glowing review says this one is identical. ;)

House of the Dead, Deadly Creatures, Broken SwordI have no interest in these games.

Mad World, Grand Slam Tennis, NSMBWiiI felt depressed while playing these games (except for the first half of MadWorld ;) ). Massive disappointments.

NyxQuestNever heard of it.

Tiger Woods 10Don't like golf sims. Disc Golf was cool but I wouldn't spend $100 on it.

The other big name release I was excited about- The Conduit- sounds like garbage. Respawning enemies? Needless padding? Bah.

NSMBWii, which despite your assessment, is actually a pretty great game with a couple of shortcomings.

So what you're saying is my opinion is wrong and yours is right? :p

[grimace06]

Obviously this is just my opinion and I respect yours too, but:

I have the NES version on VC, and even the most glowing review says this one is identical. ;)

I have no interest in these games.

I felt depressed while playing these games (except for the first half of MadWorld ;) ). Massive disappointments.

Never heard of it.

Don't like golf sims. Disc Golf was cool but I wouldn't spend $100 on it.

The other big name release I was excited about- The Conduit- sounds like garbage. Respawning enemies? Needless padding? Bah.



So what you're saying is my opinion is wrong and yours is right? :p

This might sound odd, Mr M - but perhaps the Wii is not the console you should be playing? :p

[Jay]

So what you're saying is my opinion is wrong and yours is right? :p

Pretty much. :p

[concrete donkey]

Dude, I agree that those phony 'new' Mario Bros games add nothing new, but they aren't the only 'horizontal platformer games' that have been released since the DKC trilogy.

What about Castlevania: Symphony of the Night (or any of the other Metroidvanias)? What about Oddworld: Abe's Oddysee/Exoddus, or Braid, or 'Splosion Man, or Shadow Complex, or Mega Man 9, or Prinny: Can I Really Be The Hero, or Contra 4? I'd rate most of those games above the DKC trilogy any day of the week.

Or, if you want to talk strictly in terms of adding new ideas to the formula, how about Loco Roco, Yoshi Touch and Go, Henry Hatsworth, Prince of Persia: The Fallen King, Chronos Twin, Lucidity, N+, and so on?

You're kidding yourself if you think the DKC trilogy took the genre as far as it could go. DKC barely scratched the surface of what the genre has since become.


it just bugs me that nintendo are refusing to release enough modern games for the wii. The new super mario bros was just a cash cow. It sells for between $80 and $100. You are playing the exact same game that you were 10 years ago. mario galaxy was great, but then they release nsmb? it shouldve been a budget price for no more than $50 at the most.

[Magnusetic]

Great mag as always. But what's with all the QQ'ers about price rise? No problem at all

[REQUIEM]

I guess you never played Little King's Story! I also really liked Punch-Out, House of the Dead, Deadly Creatures, Broken Sword, Mad World (the first half of it at least) and a few other games.

That reminds me, I have to finish deadly creatures. I havent played that for months.

[Australian Ninja]

it just bugs me that nintendo are refusing to release enough modern games for the wii. The new super mario bros was just a cash cow. It sells for between $80 and $100. You are playing the exact same game that you were 10 years ago. mario galaxy was great, but then they release nsmb? it shouldve been a budget price for no more than $50 at the most.

Am I wrong in thinking that NSB Wii is aimed at people who have NOT already played all the main Mario games already? From the previews and advertising I just assumed it was for other people (not hardcore gamers) to play. So it seems funny to hear so many complaints about it.

Really enjoyed the yearbook issue that I finally had time to read. The best of and worst of 09 were good bookends for the mag.

Stil laughing about Wilks crawling through the ventilation ducts to get around the hyper office. So where did he get his eye-shine job?

I hear it was from the lunch lady in the cafeteria

[REQUIEM]

Just saw the Bayonetta ad on Foxtel and found it funny to see the " HYPER " quote pop up.

HYPER "10 out of 10 One of the best games EVER made..."

[RunningMild]

This might sound odd, Mr M - but perhaps the Wii is not the console you should be playing? :p

No, that's not it. There were lots of Wii games that I was genuinely excited about last year that I just didn't end up liking. There are quite a few this year that I'm looking forward to, and even if they turn out to be awful, I've got Metroid Prime Trilogy and my choice of awesome VC games to play. Or I could go back and finish Galaxy, or I could get around to buying Pikmin 1 and 2. It's not a bad console, I just didn't like the '09 lineup.

it just bugs me that nintendo are refusing to release enough modern games for the wii. The new super mario bros was just a cash cow. It sells for between $80 and $100. You are playing the exact same game that you were 10 years ago. mario galaxy was great, but then they release nsmb? it shouldve been a budget price for no more than $50 at the most.

Dude, I don't disagree with any of that, but I see no reason to hate a whole genre just because of one fairly unimaginative entry. It's like saying that punk is dead because you didn't like Sum 41's latest effort. ;)

[concrete donkey]

so.. im guessing the new issue doesnt come out today? Can the back page release date be wrong again?

[Darren]

The delay of issue 196 (http://www.hyper.com.au/forums/showthread.php?t=19935) pushed forward the on-sale date for 197 by one week. So, it's next week for next issue.

Apologies for the back-page confusion.

[/backslash]

The delay of issue 196 (http://www.hyper.com.au/forums/showthread.php?t=19935) pushed forward the on-sale date for 197 by one week. So, it's next week for next issue.

Apologies for the back-page confusion.
Damn that sucks, especially since imo the 'little bonus' wasn't worth the trouble. Kinda reminds me of Zoo Weekly where 120,000 (I think?) fake boobs went missing from the supplier so they couldn't bundle it with the issue.

I need something to read atm, even my subscription to EDGE is being delayed and normally I barely look forward to it (its crap)

[concrete donkey]

Damn that sucks, especially since imo the 'little bonus' wasn't worth the trouble. Kinda reminds me of Zoo Weekly where 120,000 (I think?) fake boobs went missing from the supplier so they couldn't bundle it with the issue.

I need something to read atm, even my subscription to EDGE is being delayed and normally I barely look forward to it (its crap)

fake boobs? Zoo weekly readers were getting fake boobs with their magazine? I think ive heard everything now

[RunningMild]

Damn that sucks, especially since imo the 'little bonus' wasn't worth the trouble.

I thought it was. >_>

[Citizen Erased]

Sigh, at least Ive got Aus copy of Game Informer to read in the time being.

[Lazlow]

And I've got the internet >_>

[Jickle]

fake boobs? Zoo weekly readers were getting fake boobs with their magazine? I think ive heard everything now

It's not like most of them will be seeing any real boobs anytime soon.

Swish!

[Mr.Mew]

The delay of issue 196 (http://www.hyper.com.au/forums/showthread.php?t=19935) pushed forward the on-sale date for 197 by one week. So, it's next week for next issue.

Apologies for the back-page confusion.

Aww man; and I was so excited on the concept of getting the latest issue of Hyper and Mass Effect 2 on the same day.

[/backslash]

I thought it was. >_>
Guess it depends if anyone has a use for it, for me, not at all

I flicked through the latest Game Informer the other day and immediately disliked it, didn't really 'read' it (at the newsagents) but I wasn't a fan of its presentation, everything felt very drab & dull - even for $5 it wasn't worth it. The only magazine Hyper has to worry about is Pixel Hunt once Gameboffin wins lotto & can actually afford to make physical copies & pay his staff to avoid writer strikes :p

[Australian Ninja]

I picked up the first two issues of Game Informer and so far it seems like a pretty decent mag. The features were good, the reviews were good and the presentation was alright.

I don't plan on buying it all the time though, because with 5 other monthly mags I will run out of time to read it. But if they keep doing good features I will likely pick up other issues. The R18 article in issue 2 was interesting, and explained things pretty good without just rehashing what has already been commented on by other mags.

[jawsy]

I'm really digging Game Informer. A crazy amount of content in a $5 magazine.

[RunningMild]

I had another look at Jickle's 'Worst of '09' feature and I read the list of developers who closed their doors that year. I started thinking, is anyone really sad about most of these closures, or more specifically, Midway, 3D Realms and Transmission Games? Those developers sucked and we're better off without them. Hell, even Pandemic don't appear to have made anything good this generation.

Also, I had another look at the franchises that should return, and started thinking that maybe Worms should be on the list of franchises that need to go away. Does anyone agree?

[Jickle]

I had another look at Jickle's 'Worst of '09' feature and I read the list of developers who closed their doors that year. I started thinking, is anyone really sad about most of these closures, or more specifically, Midway, 3D Realms and Transmission Games? Those developers sucked and we're better off without them. Hell, even Pandemic don't appear to have made anything good this generation.

Also, I had another look at the franchises that should return, and started thinking that maybe Worms should be on the list of franchises that need to go away. Does anyone agree?

1. Try telling that to their families! :p We definitely lost some interesting projects last year - Faith and a .45, Star Wars Shooting Game I Forget The Name Of 3, and....a bunch of other stuff I can't recall.

2. You....you don't like Worms?

[Jay]

1. Try telling that to their families! :p We definitely lost some interesting projects last year - Faith and a .45, Star Wars Shooting Game I Forget The Name Of 3, and....a bunch of other stuff I can't recall.

2. You....you don't like Worms?

I think it's fun he doesn't like.

Comes from being an Eagles supporter. ;)

[grimace06]

So we'd be better off without the creator of a bunch of arcade classics, the NBA Jam games and Mortal Kombat? I don't know....

[REQUIEM]

I'm really digging Game Informer. A crazy amount of content in a $5 magazine.

The price used to be Hypers draw card.

[RunningMild]

1. Try telling that to their families! :p

Well that goes without saying...

But I find it funny when people always bitch and moan about too many crap games being released, and then get sad when some of the biggest offenders go out of business. ;)

2. You....you don't like Worms?

I haven't enjoyed a Worms game in a really long time, plus it's oversaturating the market with average/identikit games and spinoffs in the same vein as Guitar Hero or Pokemon. Besides, after Worms 2: Armageddon, how much further can the franchise go? Time to give it a rest for a while.

I think it's fun he doesn't like.

Well, I've played all the Worms demos on XBLA and PSN, and (aside from W2:A which was passable) they were all so bad I felt like crying (and this is from someone who played the original game for hundreds of hours). If that's your definition of 'fun', then you're right, I don't like 'fun'. ;)

So we'd be better off without the creator of a bunch of arcade classics, the NBA Jam games and Mortal Kombat? I don't know....

Arcade classics are fine and dandy, but they haven't made a decent game in generations. The MK games are average at best, and the new NBA Jam game isn't even being made by them. They've become completely irrelevant, and after seeing the amount of crap they made over the years it's amazing that they lasted this long tbqh.

Besides, all their assets got sold to other companies so those arcade classics won't disappear or anything.











(IMO)

[grimace06]

Oh ok - I thought you meant Midway were redundant period, my mistake.

[Australian Ninja]

Well that goes without saying...

But I find it funny when people always bitch and moan about too many crap games being released, and then get sad when some of the biggest offenders go out of business. ;)



I haven't enjoyed a Worms game in a really long time, plus it's oversaturating the market with average/identikit games and spinoffs in the same vein as Guitar Hero or Pokemon. Besides, after Worms 2: Armageddon, how much further can the franchise go? Time to give it a rest for a while.



Well, I've played all the Worms demos on XBLA and PSN, and (aside from W2:A which was passable) they were all so bad I felt like crying (and this is from someone who played the original game for hundreds of hours). If that's your definition of 'fun', then you're right, I don't like 'fun'. ;)



Arcade classics are fine and dandy, but they haven't made a decent game in generations. The MK games are average at best, and the new NBA Jam game isn't even being made by them. They've become completely irrelevant, and after seeing the amount of crap they made over the years it's amazing that they lasted this long tbqh.

Besides, all their assets got sold to other companies so those arcade classics won't disappear or anything.











(IMO)

I don't think there it's a good thing when people lose their jobs, but I second the comment that Midway has really been peddling more rubbish than usual in recent years. They really dropped the ball imo.

[ireadtabloids]

Just saw the Bayonetta ad on Foxtel and found it funny to see the " HYPER " quote pop up.

HYPER "10 out of 10 One of the best games EVER made..."

and the new wave of conspiracies begin...

[Ryan Hayward]

I'm really digging Game Informer. A crazy amount of content in a $5 magazine.

I have to wonder if that 5 dollar pricetag is an attempt to drive Hyper out of the market over-night. It just seems very absurd to see a magazine with so much content for such a crazy price. Remember when JB HiFi literally drove down the business of all other music/dvd retailers with super cheap prices and then upped the prices once they reigned supreme?

Hyper has triumphed in the past over competitors trying to steal their cherry pie. But those challengers weren't competitive in terms of pricing or content. In fact, they really sucked shit. This time though, they really need to think about a price war as these guys are the real deal. Pretty good quality and selling at 1990 price! They have the money too to lose until they have better market share if its true that they are the best selling magazine in the world.

[Lazlow]

Hyper 4 lyfe!

[HiredMan]

Just got around to reading this issue (almost in time for the next!).

Thanks for the mention Jickle *blushes*

[Australian Ninja]

I have to wonder if that 5 dollar pricetag is an attempt to drive Hyper out of the market over-night. It just seems very absurd to see a magazine with so much content for such a crazy price. Remember when JB HiFi literally drove down the business of all other music/dvd retailers with super cheap prices and then upped the prices once they reigned supreme?

Hyper has triumphed in the past over competitors trying to steal their cherry pie. But those challengers weren't competitive in terms of pricing or content. In fact, they really sucked shit. This time though, they really need to think about a price war as these guys are the real deal. Pretty good quality and selling at 1990 price! They have the money too to lose until they have better market share if its true that they are the best selling magazine in the world.

Despite the price, I don't see hyper going anywhere. There still is no other mag quite like it in this country. As far as pricing goes, it's good to remember that Game Informer is sold by some compu-global-mega-hyper-net, so the pricing is just ludicrous and doesn't compare to other normal mags on the shelf (the ones that sell for $10 to $20 an issue)

The only other stuff that is that cheap (or cheaper) is your tabloid mags, that usually are printed on a lesser quality paper stock.

I still think hyper is reasonably priced when you consider - inflation; that it's a local product; and that we don't have the population of the US or UK.

For any independant quality magazine that sells to a specific niche in this country to stick around for well over 10 years is most impressive, and going on the mags history, I reckon it will be around a long time yet.

If Hyper does fall over at some point due to whatever, I'm sure that another magazine (with at least some of the same staff) will rise up from the ashes like the Phoenix ;)

[Ryan Hayward]

Just keep in mind though that I'm not criticizing the quality of Hyper. I'll be a subscriber for life and have been reading it since issue one and have only missed about 10 issues in all the years its been around. I'm just worried about these new kids on the block due to how ridiculously cheap they are. Its just so obvious that they are aware of past competition in Australia falling flat on their arses when competing against Hyper and therefore are pulling out all the guns to hopefully sink the ship.
If there's one thing I know about aussies and that is we are notorious for being tight-asses with our money. I just hope that if Hyper's sales drop sharply due to the price differences, that they fight back with a 7 dollar magazine until these foreigners wave the white flag.
Like you, I don't want to have to read yankee shit one day. I just hope that enough of Hyper's fans don't cross over to the dark side. God, if Gamespot isn't bad enough.....

[Australian Ninja]

Just keep in mind though that I'm not criticizing the quality of Hyper. I'll be a subscriber for life and have been reading it since issue one and have only missed about 10 issues in all the years its been around. I'm just worried about these new kids on the block due to how ridiculously cheap they are. Its just so obvious that they are aware of past competition in Australia falling flat on their arses when competing against Hyper and therefore are pulling out all the guns to hopefully sink the ship.
If there's one thing I know about aussies and that is we are notorious for being tight-asses with our money. I just hope that if Hyper's sales drop sharply due to the price differences, that they fight back with a 7 dollar magazine until these foreigners wave the white flag.
Like you, I don't want to have to read yankee shit one day. I just hope that enough of Hyper's fans don't cross over to the dark side. God, if Gamespot isn't bad enough.....

Fortunately the people on the forums can barely be called fans of hyper (especially the ones that regularly talk trash about the mag and almost seem to be proud of the fact that they DON'T buy it, yet still post on the HYPER forums)

HYPA4LIFE, and damn the cheapskates to the ninth circle of bargain bin hell.

But I shouldn't say that - I'm a bargain hunter (got the license in a cereal box), but I DO believe in paying for quality product. I never have an issue with paying "X" amount of dollars for quality product.

I don't understand how some people can be so eager to spend hundreds of dollars on PCs, Consoles, Games, TVs etc and be so stingy when it comes to a few crumbs for a magazine? Somebody needs to write a letter......

[TimmyJ]

Just saw the Bayonetta ad on Foxtel and found it funny to see the " HYPER " quote pop up.

HYPER "10 out of 10 One of the best games EVER made..."

Yeah, it's pretty good...IMO i have to disagree with hyper though, it's not THAT good.

To each their own i guess.

[jawsy]

I don't understand how some people can be so eager to spend hundreds of dollars on PCs, Consoles, Games, TVs etc and be so stingy when it comes to a few crumbs for a magazine? Somebody needs to write a letter......

Gee whiz, it certainly couldn't be because they value different items/goods/services differently, could it?

This argument is such a stupid one and people keep trotting it out like they just invented the wheel.

[TheMixta43]

So issue 197 is out tomorrow isn't it?

[Lazlow]

Yes (http://www.hyper.com.au/forums/showthread.php?t=20274)

...

[Australian Ninja]

Gee whiz, it certainly couldn't be because they value different items/goods/services differently, could it?

This argument is such a stupid one and people keep trotting it out like they just invented the wheel.


They have a what now?