“Mum always told me I’d regret getting tattoos.”

BioWare has published new images from Mass Effect 2 on its official website. The main screen below provides a glimpse at the Collectors, the insectoid race thought to be the principle villains of the game. Apparently the Collectors are behind a recent spate of kidnappings throughout the galaxy. Also of note, is a new image of Legion, a rogue Geth on the trail of Commander Sheppard.

The original Mass Effect suffered from a litany of almost game breaking issues, including, but not limited to, an appalling frame rate, frequent texture pop-in and prolonged loading delays. It also endured a controversy in which a far right blogger described the main character’s consensual (and largely off-screen) sexual encounters as ‘orgasmic rape simulation’.

Why then, you may logically ask, am I so keen on the sequel? Despite its undeniable flaws, Mass Effect was among my favourite games of 2007. Its ambient sound scapes and stylish art design recalled the best sci-fi cinema of the 70’s and 80s.The dialogue system, which permitted surprisingly naturalistic exchanges, immersed me a universe of aliens, robots and political intrigue. Even after I lost my save some 10 hours into the game, I retained my resolve. Bring on the sequel.

BioWare’s latest is due for release on PC and Xbox 360 on Sunday 31 January 2010.

It was at this point that Toku noticed the bridge.

Nintendo is set to offer trial versions of a selection of WiiWare titles, according to a report published on IGN. Nintendo CEO Satoru Iwata confirmed that the initiative is designed to encourage more Wii owners to visit the console’s online store.

While time or content limited demos are a mandatory aspect of all Xbox Live Arcade titles, Nintendo has been reluctant to follow suit. The thought of providing something free of charge seems to bring out Nintendo’s inner Scrooge McDuck. Despite admitting that WiiWare has failed to attract a substantial audience, Iwata has described the trial program itself as a ‘test’. A trial of a trial? Gee, Nintendo, don’t over commit or anything.

Launched in 2008, the WiiWare service already boasts acclaimed original titles such as World of Goo and LostWinds, as well as new instalments of classic franchises like Final Fantasy, Mega Man and Space Invaders. Finally it seems that Nintendo would like to encourage a few of us to actually play some of these games. Major League Eating: The Game could finally receive the recognition is so richly deserves.

Let’s hope the program actually makes its way to our shores, eh?

UPDATE: Wii owners’ hopes of receiving a Tales of Vesperia port have been dashed. As reported by 1UP, Koyama has revealed that he misspoke. Instead of referring to the already announced Tales of Grace, he accidently named Vesperia.

ORIGINAL STORY: Namco Bandai’s Xbox 360 showcase Tales of Vesperia is becoming less exclusive by the minute. The hit RPG has already been ported to the PlayStation 3. Now voice actor Rikiya Koyama has, according to a report published on Kotaku confirmed that a Wii version is in the works.

A new trailer for Split/Second has been issued by publisher Disney Interactive Studios. The clip commences with a seemingly endless faux advertisement for a luxury sports car, before wisely transitioning to the breakneck gameplay footage we all came to see.

The racing takes place in the context of a perilous game show. It’s no Climbing for Dollars, but if you’re in the mood for some arcade action, Split/Second looks mighty promising. Competitors tear through the streets of a purpose-built city with each racer able ensnare or destroy their opponents by triggering explosions at strategic points on the track. Cars are shown swerving to avoid collapsing buildings, ricocheting debris, even a runaway ocean liner. (Where’s Sandra Bullock when you need her?)

Split/Second is being developed by Black Rock Studios, the racing game specialists acquired by Disney in 2006. Black Rock’s last title was the well-received quad bike racer Pure. Split/Second is due for release on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 in 2010.

"God I hate the Western Ring Road."