G.M.M.

Gaming\Movies\Music - Patrick Muldrew

[patrickmuldrew]

GAMING: Nintendo Switch Reveal

The Switch was finally unveiled in Japan and here is a complete recap of the conference.

Perhaps the most exciting part of this event was realising that the Switch is only about 6 weeks away. Nintendo’s president Tatsumi Kimishima announced a worldwide release date of March 3 for the console\handheld hybrid and a price tag in the U.S. of $299.99. This price point was fairly unsurprising to most who have followed the rumor mill of the console’s development. EB Games currently have their pre-order price set at $469.95 AU with other accessories added on top. The main accessory that people may be looking into is the Switch pro controller which is pre-ordering for $99.95.

Included in the console box is the screen\console unit, L and R joy-con controllers (which I’ll talk about more in a moment), joy-con wrist straps, the joy-con grip controller, the Switch dock, an HDMI cable and an AC adapter with USB-C. Two different skews of the console exist at this point - A grey controller unit and another with one neon red and one neon blue joy-con. Both versions will sell at the same price and there was finally confirmation of a “multi-touch capacititive touch screen” which can display in 720p. When docked and displaying to a TV, this resolution is switched to 1080p.

One thing that wasn’t mentioned at all during the conference was the internal storage of the Switch. Nintendo later released information on their website detailing that the console will have 32GB of storage, and while this is quite disappointing, the capacity can be increased by use of micro sdxc cards. The highest capacity in that format is 512GB, although there should be cards theoretically capable of holding up to 2TB in the next few years.

There will be no region-locking of Nintendo Switch software which is great news for many gamers around the world looking to get a hold of more obscure or Japanese-focused games. The other thing Nintendo have finally come to the party with is voice chat. Nintendo Switch Online Services will let users invite friends to play online, set play appointments and most importantly chat. Other features are to be announced at a future date. There will be a trial of these services post-launch and then a paid (possibly subscription) service starting towards the end of the year. Up to 8 Switch consoles can be connected for local multiplayer and multiple joy-cons and other controllers can by synced to the one system. A share button also exists of the Switch. At the moment it allows the sharing of screenshots but the promise is to have video sharing available in the the near future.

To end the introduction of the Switch, battery life was discussed and it wasn’t fantastic. Users can expect 2.5 to 6 hours of battery from the device, depending on the game being played and the conditions in settings. 3 hours was an estimated figure given for a title like Zelda. Hopefully battery issues can be negated somewhat by the use of USB-C as the method of charging. USB-C is known for rapid charging of products. Apple use it for their laptops as do Google for their new phone, the Pixel. It should be interesting to find out how long a full charge will take and whether first or third party battery packs are introduced for people on the go. 

Joy-Con Controllers

One of the best parts of the presentation was a segment recapping the different consoles and handhelds over the years and what each of them brought to game controls. The piece ended by hinting that there is a piece of every former control scheme in the joy- con controllers and it left me thinking that these devices are perhaps more complex than anyone realised. 

For starters, motion control is part of the Switch experience, making all games of all generations potentially playable on the Switch. Also spruiked was an “HD rumble system” allowing for a greater sensitivity and immersion in gameplay. The joy-con R has a motion-IR camera that can sense the shape, movement and distance of the objects in front of it. Finally, Amiibo will definitely be supported with the joy-con R including an NFC reader.

Games Announcements

“1-2 Switch” can be played even without looking at a screen. It works as a competitive multiplayer motion-controlled game and is available at launch. “Arms” is a new fighting game IP that will release in the first half of the year. It reminds me a little of “Wii Sports” boxing but with more mechanics to it of course. However both these titles are definitely looking to appeal to a more casual\party audience, perhaps trying to rekindle the success seen with the Wii.

The first big title announced was “Splatoon 2″ - I think most people were expecting a re-release of the Wii U game rather than a full fledged sequel. Interestingly it was mentioned that gyro control aiming would be available in al playing styles and all controllers. It is clearly a big franchise moving forward for Nintendo.

The biggest franchise of them all was up next. “Super Mario Odyssey” is a completely new 3D Mario game in the vein of “Mario 64″ or “Mario Sunshine”. It is all about Mario “journeying to an unknown world” including a modern ‘real-looking’ city. The game also included more familiar things like forest and desert settings. “Super Mario Odyssey” will be released in the final quarter of 2017. Expect to see much more of this game ay E3.

Over 80 games are confirmed to be in development right now from up to 50 third party partners. As strongly hinted at in the October teaser trailer “Skyrim” will be coming to the Switch. Hopefully the third party support will stay strong over the life of this console.

Finally a brilliant new trailer for “Zelda: Breath Of The Wild” was shown finally revealing more of the various geographical locations and boss battles that we can look forward to. The game will release on day one with the Switch (March 3rd)

Verdict:

It seems that Nintendo could be on to a good thing with the Switch. By being transparent about price and any shortcomings (battery life) I think they will be able to build goodwill from a gaming audience that wants to see Nintendo succeed in the industry. It was a little disappointing not to hear anything about the future of virtual console, but perhaps they didn’t want to muddy the water too much. There will be plenty of time for that in future Nintendo Directs. Time will tell if they will be able to form a viable third option with Sony and Microsoft. The one thing that could potentially harm their chances is artificial scarcity. It is something Nintendo has been doing for quite a while now. We’ve seen it through the Wii, Amiibo and recently the NES Classic. There must be stock early in the life of the Switch to get momentum back into the sails for Nintendo. Having Zelda ready to go on launch was a massive plus, maybe the biggest positive of the entire presentation, so there will absolutely be demand on day one. Hopefully Nintendo don’t fumble their chance.

[patrickmuldrew]

GAMING: Ori & The Blind Forest Review

A platformer with brilliant design, substance and heart.

Xbox One & PC

Price: $26.95 AUD

“Ori & The Blind Forest” opens with the forest in turmoil. Three elements of light have been stolen and it is up to the title character to restore balance to the troubled world. The opening to the game runs long and is as emotional as almost any game you can think of. Developers Moon Studios made a bold to have what amounts to a 15 minute interactive cut scene opening Ori, but by the time it’s over you are engaged, left wanting to fix the situation and explore the amazing world.

The art style in the game is simply gorgeous. You will struggle to find a better looking game this year with the possible exception of Nintendo’s “Yoshi’s Woolly World”. Using the “Unity” Engine the game gives off the appearance of being hand drawn while displaying at a full 1080p at 60 frames per second. The fluid visuals, courtesy of the high frame rate, make traversing the world an absolute joy. “Ori” truly is a masterclass in platforming. While the jump mechanic is more floaty than classics like Mario or Mega Man, it still feels entirely controllable, which is nice considering the difficult and precise movement needed at times, especially in the “escape finales” of each act. The fingerprints of “Metroid” are all over this game and the escape sequences are reminiscent of the ‘time bomb’ finales of that franchise.

The ‘Metroidvania’ ideas also spread into how you explore the world, with many secrets to be uncovered and upgrades to be found. Ori’s health, energy and  skill tree can grow to a point where you feel comfortable exploring anywhere at any time. Don’t be fooled though, this isn't a game you can finish with ease. The platforming, puzzles and combat can start to play with your head, especially the later dungeons that use changing gravitational directions as a mechanic. Prepare to die a lot and this game rarely auto-saves so it is up to the player to control their own progress by setting up save points, which cost energy. The trade of checkpoint versus resource cost is really well balanced, particularly early in the game.

Combat within the game also feels very nice. The excellent Xbox One controller does make Ori feel like an extension of you & the different enemy types will keep the balance and interest of combat fresh throughout the roughly 10 hour playthrough. On PC this game can be played with a mouse and keyboard but I can’t imagine playing this game without a controller. Xbox 360\One and Wii U pro controllers would all suit the Steam release very nicely.

The only real fault I can find with “Ori” is that once the story is complete the game file you are using becomes locked and you aren't allowed to return to the world to collect the remaining power-ups. Annoyingly, my first playthrough was stuck at 98% but the good news is because of its astounding quality, this game has excellent replay value.

Verdict:

“Ori & The Blind Forest” is one of the most engaging and memorable games I have played in years. Besides the wonderful balance of platforming and combat game mechanics as well as the gorgeous visuals and story there is just something indescribably ‘special’ about “Ori”. A definitive edition has been announced for later this year. A very accessible game, everyone should give this a chance, because in this reviewer’s opinion it is the clear front-runner for game of the year honours.

9.5\10

All games are reviewed on a 20 point scale 

[patrickmuldrew]

GAMING: Journey PS4 Review

THE 2012 AWARD WINNING GAME RETURNS, BUT IS IT STILL ON THE SAME LEVEL IN 2015?

PRICE: $22.95 AUD

Having missed the original release of this acclaimed title, I was excited to finally play through the 2012 indie-darling that won multiple GOTY (game of the year) awards.

The expectations were high as the game opened upon a Dune Sea, Tatooine-esq desert stretching as far as the eye could see. The ambiance created by the sparse soundtrack, composed by Austin Wintory and undeniably gorgeous visual style drew me further into the game as I tried to understand the reason and meaning behind the journey I was embarking on. The visuals of this game truly are amazing and developers Thatgamecompany should be highly commended on producing something so unique and vivid. Creating an environment that is so dynamic and engaging is one of the great achievements in gaming. However, it is only one. 

I found myself continually wondering when the game would present a bigger idea, story or gameplay mechanic to me, but it never came and soon enough the credits were already rolling. This won’t be the first time I write these words, but they need to be said: “Gameplay is king” and I never felt like I was ever really challenged by this game, nor particularly entertained. It was pleasant enough but the puzzle elements throughout the game could be described as ‘moderate’ at best. You just feel as though you cruise through the game and despite all the praise for it’s emotional storytelling, I was left feeling very little. I did enjoy the attempt at trying to wordlessly tell a story. No dialogue or text appear in the approximately 90 minute playthrough. 

It sounds as though I’m starting to get very negative about this game, but it’s really just bringing me to my main point. Indies and small budget titles have come along way, even since 2012 and I’m just not sure whether “Journey” would be anywhere near GOTY contention in 2015. Games like “Ori & The Bind Forest”, “Shovel Knight”, “Valiant Hearts” & “Guacamelee” are all examples of similar budget games that match or even surpass “Journey” in my mind. Rather than being the exception, “Journey” stands out to me as being the foundation for all other “Indie/small budget” games to build upon.

Verdict:

Perhaps playing “Journey” for the first time as a redux title had me setting my expectations too high. However, I maintain that if you want engaging gameplay you won’t find it here. This price is probably $5 too expensive, although it wouldn't be surprising to see it turn up for free on Playstation Plus in the coming months. An above average Indie game, “Journey” helped shape the current landscape of gaming that we all enjoy today.

7\10

All games are reviewed on a 20 point scale

[patrickmuldrew1]

MUSIC: Chris Cody Quartet @ Foundry 616

[patrickmuldrew]

Date: 3\5\14 Price: $20 (General)

Piano: Chris Cody Bass: Brendan Clarke Drums: James Waples Tenor: Matt Keegan

After 20 years making a very nice career in France, Chis Cody has returned home to Australia. Seeing him live for the first time in 15 years was a great way to see how he has developed, not only as a pianist and group leader, but also as a writer.

On a night where the American Tenor player Greg Osby was playing across town the foundry had a nice crowd of around 75 to see the beginnings of this quartet. All 4 of the musicians play with an obvious sense of fun and enjoyment - not something you always see in the club setting. That attitude on stage carried over into the audience throughout the night.

Cody’s playing and writing covers a wide variety of styles. Tunes like “Scatter” & “Octate” tapped heavily into the New Orleans 2nd line and blues feel, while other originals such as “Consript” were far more harmonically outside the box. “Pop It”, Cody’s “attempt to write a pop song” came off as most pop songs do to Jazz listeners - a little bland but with hypnotic riffs and grooves that wash over you as you listen. From there Cody can switch gears completely and use a more Parisian approach, infused with North African percussive grooves. 

While the playing was very good there were just a couple of things that were a little raw and reminded the listener that this quartet is still finding its way. Keegan plays well within himself with very considered lines and approach but as the de facto frontman, it will take a little more time for him to feel truly comfortable with Cody’s compositions. Not suprising really, given that most of Cody’s music has been recorded with Trombone in the past (including James Greening). 

Where the band did mesh extremely well was in the covering of couple of standards. “I Hear A Rhapsody"was where the tenor and the piano worked well together, Keegan definitely in a more relaxed space. ”Caravan“, slightly reharmonised, featured Waples on the kit performing some of the most interesting ideas I’ve ever heard from a drummer. It’s silly to say but it was almost lyrical. That solo alone will stick with me for a long time.

Brendan Clarke continues to show why he is one of the most outstanding bass players in the country. He drove the show from backstage last night. while at the back of the room, the Foundry’s sound engineer produced what had to be the best live Bass sound I’ve had the pleasure of hearing. 

It’s still very nice to trace Cody’s sound back to an album like ”Oasis“ which was recorded back in 1998. He has a very unique voice in the Australian Jazz scene and this country will be all the better for having him back here full time. 

[patrickmuldrew]

MUSIC: John Legend Live

Simply put - If you can't hear every instrument in the band then get the hell away from the sound desk and let someone else do it. This was the dominant thought that ran through my mind as I was taking in, despite sound, an amazing performance.

The Guitarist (Ian McAuley - I think) couldn't be heard for most of the gig, even during HIS OWN SOLOS, for God's sake!! Add to that, the fact that the girls doing BV's were singing their asses off - again, a lot of it was left unheard. JL's piano was also conspicuously absent through much of the concert. While on the other side of the card, the drums, for me, were way too loud.

This, as I mentioned earlier, didn't manage to take away from a brilliant performance by the man himself. Vocally, the guy is really on it and he owns the stage space from start to finish. A great entertainer, he last night solidified himself, in this writer’s eyes, as one of the great artists of this generation. The best, and most surprising thing in the concert was coming off the back of one of his songs, a full blown launch into The Beatles - I Want You (She's So Heavy). Everything about it really blew me away, the conviction, the precision of Harmony - everything.

Get out to see this guy whenever and wherever you can - just pray for a better effort on sound than was given last night in Sydney.

[patrickmuldrew]

MUSIC: Miles Davis - Someday My Prince Will Come

Do you think I'm into Miles's 1961 album "Someday My Prince Will Come"?

WELL I AM!!

I have just been relaxing over the last week listening to tunes, as you do on holidays and this cracker came up on shuffle. I hadn't heard the recording for a very long time and just hearing the title track reminded me of how much I loved the album as a teenager. 

It's certainly not uncommon for a musician to wax lyrical about a Miles album but there's something about this one for me that's so polished, so perfect and I think it starts right back with the 50's Prestige recordings and that first use of Harmon mute on a Miles album. Back on the "Cookin'", "Steamin'" albums that harmon sound is so raw and the music so fresh. As he travels through those albums coming into "Kind Of Blue" you can hear everything about the music becoming more refined. "Someday" just hits the mark so well for me. There's something about a 3\4 jazz waltz - such a great style and feel.

Personel:

Miles Davis - Trumpet

Hank Mobley - Tenor Sax (on all tracks except 5)

John Coltrane - Tenor Sax (tracks 1 & 5)

Wynton Kelly - Piano

Paul Chambers - Bass

Jimmy Cobb - Drums

Philly Joe Jones - Drums

I really love Hank Mobley's playing on this album. It's probably my favourite of his recorded work. The same goes for Wynton Kelly. Just his comping in "Someday" & "Pfrancing" are enough for me, let alone all the great lyrical solo lines.

It could be so easy not to comment on the bass & drums of Chambers & Cobb because when everything's in it's right place, as it is here, It's easy not to notice how much of a contribution they have to this sound. Absolutely everything on this album sits perfectly in the pocket. So many differing styles are covered too. Latin, jazz waltz, ballad, blues, it's all there and these two are on it every time.

But there it is, I couldn't recommend this album any higher for those of you who haven't heard it and for those of you who have - grab a drink and sit back with an old friend.