<<BACK l 1 l 2 l 3 l 4 l 5 l 6 l 7 l 8 l 9 l 10 l NEXT>>
An annual tradition here at the Black Panel, New Horizons provides you with a sneak peak at the year ahead. Entirely bereft of sequels and spin-offs, this article is devoted to the promise of new ideas, bold and inventive.
The first new IP from id Software in almost 15 years allows you to host your own late night music program on the ABC. Oh, wait. That’s something else entirely. RAGE is actually a post apocalyptic epic that combines traditional first person carnage with a healthy dose of vehicular combat. It’s not the most original concept in popular fiction, but that’s unlikely to dissuade id’s many fans from checking out what promises to be a graphical showcase. Rage is expected to arrive on 360, PS3 and PC in September. REVIEW
If you’re anything like us, you probably don’t associate the Kinect peripheral with axe wielding sadists, bloodthirsty ghouls or prisoners sizzling away in electric chairs. However, that’s exactly the kind of imagery you’ll encounter in RISE OF NIGHTMARES, the new first person horror experience from SEGA. According to the Japanese publisher, survival will require the use of your “whole body”. We can only hope that this is an exaggeration. SEGA is targeting an autumn release for this nasty looking 360 exclusive. REVIEW
After its debut release was described in various reviews as “weird”, “strange” and “bizarre”, Chilean developer ACE Team could be forgiven for playing it safe. Instead they commenced work on ROCK OF AGES, a turn based strategy game in which you’ll assume the role of a gargantuan boulder with a smiley face carved into its surface. By carefully plotting your trajectory, you’ll be able to obliterate your enemy’s troops and structures. Rock of Ages is coming to unspecified digital channels in autumn. REVIEW
The latest offering from Grasshopper Manufacture is shaping up to be an all-star affair. A gruesome hybrid of action and horror, SHADOWS OF THE DAMNED is being forged by executive director Suda51 (Killer 7), creative producer Shinji Mikami (Resident Evil) and composer Akira Yamaoka (Silent Hill). Your level of anticipation for the game probably depends on whether the idea of a skull shaped shotgun has you fist pumping or groaning. According to publisher EA, Shadows of the Damned will be released on 360 and PS3 in winter. REVIEW
Rise of Nightmares image credit: IGN
<<BACK l 1 l 2 l 3 l 4 l 5 l 6 l 7 l 8 l 9 l 10 l NEXT>>
Listen to our New Horizons PODCAST discussion.