Top 10 PS3 Games of all Time

Don't let the fresh kicks fool you. I am a console gamer to my core. I thought I'd put out something short and sweet for those of you who either chose sides last generation or couldn't afford a ps3 until now. Either way this generation is long gone so I am going to highlight some of the best there is on this system. 

Again these are my opinions and may not reflect how everyone else feels.

10. Demon's Souls

In at number 10 it’s Demon’s Souls. It’s not even fair how hard this game was. It was more than likely the reason some people passed on it in the first place. But, beyond the brutal difficulty it’s a fun exciting adventure that keeps you coming back for more. And if your patient and brave enough you’ll eventually beat it.

09. Ratchet and Clank: A Crack in Time

3d platforming fun at its finest! I for whatever reason don’t normally play these games but it somehow made its way into my ps3 and my heart. I will admit it plays it safe as far as the story and difficulty go but it is one of the most well rounded 3d plat-former's this gen.

08. Infamous Series

This game has an awesome comic-esque narrative with super-hero parkour game-play. They definitely were thinking outside the box for these sandbox adventure games and it payed off extremely well. I played these games so much I got motion sickness from the camera shifting around so much (true story). I think the most gripping feature it offers outside of your abilities earned is the option to choose whether you are going to be the evil/anti-hero or a full blown white knight. With tons of replay value and a huge city to play in, you need to at least get the first game if you haven’t played it yet.

07. Little Big Planet Series

I never thought a game could make me feel like a kid again. Not the awkward puberty stages but a much simpler time when I would play Sonic the hedgehog or Super Mario world for hours on end. This is a game that is so fucking cute that I want to strangle a kitten during a tea party in a princess playhouse. Have you seen Sackboy? Did you know you could dress him up in outfits? Did you know you could decorate his house? Pure pink sugary goodness is what this game is like fresh carnival cotton candy. Now all that cute stuff aside what you have is a challenging well thought out 2 1/2d Platformer with some simple yet unique puzzles. Beyond the single player campaign is a giant community of developers that can create levels as far as their imaginations can take them. You can literally make any level you want. There is a Zelda level that even has the music on a very impressive level of creativity. This game could have been the new Mario but it wasn't promoted as such. Either way get this if you haven’t played it yet, your inner child will thank you.

06. Journey

An indie game so well done it bankrupted the company creating it. This is an adventure that goes beyond what words can convey (there aren’t any). It tells a story that the player can make what they want of it. I truly loved this short adventure and was so glad the gaming world embraced this little indie game with such high regard.

05. God of War 3

This is a game you need to play on the hardest difficulty for the sheer excitement it brings beating the life out of gods. Almost immediately in playing the game you get to your first boss fight against Poseidon (see pic above).  Look at how little Kratos is. You see him way down there by Poseidon's aqua crotch? This is by far my favorite boss fight of all time. My testosterone levels were at an all-time high when I beat this fucker on the highest difficulty.  This is the definitive GOW game so please forget that ascension was even made. Get this game and get ready for good, puzzling, button-mashing fun with some of the best boss fights in existence.

04. Ni No Kuni

JRPG’s came back in full force with this one ladies and gents. This game is beautiful from start to finish thank’s to the supreme Japanese anime company studio Ghibli. It has a story we ultimately can all relate to, character’s that we genuinely like and gameplay we have been waiting for this entire generation. And that Score, my god it sounds so enchanting. Let me give you an idea how good this game is. My wife (Borat Voice) is not a gamer. She will sometimes sit next to me when I play story driven games to pick up on what’s going on, but that’s truly the extent of her gaming life other than some ios free-to-plays, console puzzlers and the occasional Tell-tale game (Back to the future, walking dead). She actually played this game and would refuse to pass the controller on several occasions. I would be woken up the soundbar in my living room going off at 5 am to that sweet score I mentioned before. This game transcends lifestyles people. Have this in your collection or don’t call yourself an RPG fan.

03. Metal Gear Solid 4

I had been waiting on this game for so long. While the storyline pales in comparison to MGS3 it is a perfect ending to solid snakes storyline. The cut scenes are long and compelling, The graphics were at the time the most impressive use of the PS3 hardware and the action was straight out of Hollywood. Kojima is definitely the GOAT when it comes to stealth action adventure gaming, hell he friggin invented the genre. Now that being said, in my opinion this game is a testament to gaming as cinema overall. You could sit and watch this entire thing unfold without playing and enjoy the ride. I personally cant what to see what Kojima gives us next gen.

02. Uncharted Series

Who knew this game would take off like it did (besides me). Hollywood storytelling mixed with fast paced action unfolded into my favorite franchise since Metal Gear. Nathan Drake is quite possibly the most well rounded gaming character ever and the cast of these games is always top notch.  The best way I can describe it is Tomb Raider meets Indiana Jones. It is the definitive action adventure game and should be used as the building block for any new franchise.  

01.   The last of Us

You already knew this was going here. This game deserves every trophy, award and nomination you can throw at it. This gripping story captivates you from beginning to end. It never fails in thrills, fights or emotions. I usually don’t give a shit about people I play with in gaming and most of the time any NPC that you have to take care of is a nuisance. Not here. I cared about ellie’s survival . She was so well done you didn’t think of her as an NPC and more of an extension of Joel (Main character). There were so many spots in this game that caused heart pumping thrills that I thought they were endings but, No the game marched on until you have and ending that feels so…open…and yet so complete. Naughty Dog has a lot to live up to. Here’s hoping for greatness.

- LeMar G.

LeMar G's Game of the Year Picks

Oh it's that time of year peeps. It's been an amazing year for gaming and as usual we saw some of the best software of all time come as swan songs to our favorite consoles. Although I have moved on to the PS4, my PS3 is in my bedroom and still gets ton of attention thanks to PS+. But wow this has been one of my favorite generations of gaming ever and I am sad to see it go. Here are my picks for GOTY: 

The views below to do not necessarily reflect everyone elses opinion on this Blog. 
Reader discretion is advised.

GAME OF THE YEAR - The Last of Us

This is story telling at its finest. This game singlehandedly transcended gaming story telling and achieved emotions only books, films and art convey. It makes since because this game is art (Don't tell Kojima). If you haven't played this game, please do yourself a favor and make an attempt to. You will not be disappointed. 

STUDIO OF THE YEAR - Rockstar

BEST SHOOTER – Bioshock Infinite

BEST ACTION ADVENTURE GAME – GTA V

BEST SPORTS GAME – NBA2K14

BEST INDEPENDENT GAME – Guacamelee

BEST RPG – Ni No Kuni

BEST DRIVING GAME – Forza 5

BEST DLC – Far Cry: Blood Dragon

BEST HANDHELD GAME - Tearaway

BEST VOICE ACTOR – Steven Ogg as Trevor Philips from GTAV

BEST VOICE ACTRESS - Ashley Johnson as Ellie from The Last of Us

BEST SOUNDTRACK – The Last of Us

- LeMar G.

The Nike Kobe 9 Has Been Revealed + My Thoughts

Press Release:

Nike, the world’s leading basketball brand, today unveiled the much-anticipated KOBE 9 Elite shoe at an event held at The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in Los Angeles. The KOBE 9 Elite redefines the aesthetics and performance of a basketball shoe and was designed using Nike Flyknit according to Nike’s “Nature Amplified” design ethos, an approach focused on designing for the body in motion and fueled by scientific data and athlete insights.

“We are just scratching the surface of the potential of Nike Flyknit to transform the way we design shoes to meet athletes’ needs," said Mark Parker, President & CEO of NIKE, Inc. "The Kobe 9 redefines the basketball shoe by combining power, strength, and flexibility with lightweight materials and a whole new method of manufacturing.”

THE MASTERPIECE:

Designed with Kobe’s tech insights and design inspirations, the KOBE 9 Elite features three key technologies: Nike Flyknit, Flywire and Lunarlon, giving the shoe superior lightweight performance. The innovative design enhances the foot’s natural movements while providing Kobe with strength, durability and speed, plus all the benefits of natural motion where he needs it most.

"I draw inspiration from where I am as a player, as a person, and where my career is at this moment. I'm trying to do something that the majority of people think is impossible to do," Kobe reflected when asked about the inspiration for his latest shoes and about getting back into the game. "I let my emotions out when I step on the basketball floor, it’s always been my escape, and these shoes will touch a nerve on the court in the same way I do."

Nike Flyknit – which was first used in Nike Running shoes in 2012 – defies conventional shoe manufacturing processes by creating a one-piece engineered upper made from single strands of yarns. Lightweight yet incredibly strong, it has redefined sports shoe technology and comes to basketball for the first time in the KOBE 9 Elite.

“Nike Flyknit acts as a second skin for Kobe, giving him engineered strength similar to the design of a spider web – tension and strength just where it’s needed,” said Eric Avar, Nike Creative Director and VP of Innovation, who has worked closely with Kobe on his shoe designs for a decade."

Reverting back to a higher cut for the first time since his third signature shoe in 2007, Kobe’s ninth signature shoe features a knit collar for the proprioceptive feel of a low-top with the support of a mid-top. With the lead colorway dubbed ‘Masterpiece,’ the KOBE 9 Elite uses the intriguing visual patterns allowed by Nike Flyknit to create a piece of art on the upper, nine red embroidered details on the heel give a nod to Kobe’s Achilles sutures. The design on the outsole is based on the pressure mapping of Kobe’s own foot, creating a beautiful pattern while providing traction on court.

DYNAMIC FIT:

Nike Flyknit and Flywire technologies are a one-two punch, leading to a dynamic fit for Kobe’s intricate footwork.

-The single layer Nike Flyknit creates a seamless engineered upper that is the ultimate in superior lightweight performance integrating areas of high breathability, stretch and support where it’s needed most.

-Nike Flywire technology is strong yet dynamic for lockdown through the midfoot; its cables loosen and tighten with the natural motion of the foot.

-The carbon fiber heel counter provides strong and lightweight lateral stability when moving from side to side, while the heel remains stable.

RESPONSIVE RIDE:

Eliminating bulk and distraction was a focus for Avar. The idea of ‘simplifying without compromise’ helped shape the design of the KOBE 9 Elite.

-Nike Lunarlon cushioning insert provides responsive cushioning that keeps the foot connected to the court.

-The pressure mapping designed, minimal rubber outsole delivers durable traction and mimics the natural contours of the foot.

DESIGN WITH A PURPOSE:

Nike Flyknit technology introduces a new way to construct a shoe upper by knitting strands of yarn. Nike Flyknit is better for the planet because it drastically reduces waste and materials from typical upper construction. The KOBE 9 Elite upper reduces waste by nearly 50% compared to traditional high-top basketball shoes that use multiple segments and cuts of material in the construction process.

My Thoughts:

They look like boxing shoes....and I am OK with that, While this is by far the most outrageous design of any "Nike" Kobe sneaker, it seemingly transitions the shape of his past signatures while creating its own path in the process. In fact they are releasing ALL of his old Nike sneakers in a limited addition "Pack" (I'll post that later) leading up to the release of the 9. From what I understand the high ankle support was not due to his injury which makes sense as these are typically designed years in advance. It does however seem pretty convenient that its there after such a major accident involving his torn Achilles. I would also like to note that these are being branded as an elite model. This explains the higher price point as there will probably be a low cut inexpensive model releasing sometime later in the season. Stay tuned for more news on this as I will be going over the themes this year in a later post. 

The KOBE 9 Elite releases globally on Feb. 8, 2014, at Nike.com and select global retail locations.

- LeMar

Top 10 ways Sneakerheads are just like Comic Collectors

I am a Sneakerhead which is honestly just slang for sneaker nerd. My appreciation for the design, craft, and comfort is inundated into my DNA at this point in life. You may not know this but we share a very close connection to the comic nerd. Yeah, we’re not so different you and I. 

Here is why:

Childhood Memories

Growing up in a single parent household, shoe purchases came once a year for school.  This only fed my infatuation. Hoping that one day my kicks would be as amazing as Martin Payne or Corey Mathews.

“Corey had heat”

Fortunately I have a loving mother that was proud to feed my other love which was comic books. She would proudly drive us out to the suburbs every few weeks to pick up our latest Marvel fix. This obsession was much less expensive and could provide a lasting feeling of satisfaction. I miss those days. So once I hit high-school, the first time I got a fresh pair of Nike’s it gave me that feeling all over again. However, it’s a much more expensive hobby that doesn’t appear to be settling any time soon. Thanks Mom.

OG’s are a prized possession

Much Like OG sneakers, a first run comic has a far greater value than a second or third printing. That doesn't take anything away from a retro Jordan or a second edition 1^st issue, but there is nothing like that first run.

“Especially when it comes to selling/trading it in the future.”

 Gotta Catch em’ all.

I have OCD when it comes to completion. There is no better feeling than having every single edition or colorway possible. Of course this is obtainable with lots of time and money so you always feel as if you have a chance to make this happen. In fact I know more than a few dedicated people that have. 

"Bastard"

Hypebeasts

So when I went to see The Avengers and was waiting for the second after credits scene, this guy behind me who came with his group of clueless friends tries to explain to them what just happened.  He continued to say Thaynus as he pronounced it was an Egyptian x-men villain who was trying to kill mutants throughout the universe. It took my every being to not nerd rage all over this guy and his cohorts.  

“My Nerd rage is full of protein”

What posers are to Comics, Hypebeasts are to sneakers. Too often do people try to slip into your culture and completely get it wrong with no remorse. I have no love for these people and neither should you.

The Day One Cop Routine

The homey Mike religiously makes his comic purchases every Wednesday. I am the same way with sneakers. Every Saturday morning I’m up early to secure my latest infatuation.

It is this glorious routine that keeps us grounded in the culture. Until it’s no longer a routine and just a part of life. I know personally I would have it no other way.

Respect the Creator

Tinker Hatfield and Eric Avar mean as much to me as Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. These are my idols and the gods that crafted the most influential things in my life. I don’t need to say more. Oh these aren't tears, its power juice.

Storage

I got racks on racks on racks of sneakers. My homeys got stacks on stacks of comics around the crib. We do this and dammit we protect our investments. If I could get an air tight vault-like chamber to store my babies I would and my comic book fiends would as well. Wait….no….I wear my kicks and they read their books……You get what I'm saying though.

The Stigma

Well if you like comics you must be a supreme mega nerd right. A virgin, no life outside of larping and playing WOW with people you never met but may one day marry. You wear tapped up glasses and have no fashion sense. It isn't fair but that stigma is probably not going away anytime soon. Unfortunately Sneakerhead also has a negative connotation surrounding it as well. Thanks to a bunch of idiots who couldn't keep their shit together when those concords dropped.

"My people"

Conventions

Yeah we both do this. They are both equally as awesome and are a must for your nerd Bucket List. Although sneakerheads don’t have anything that would even come close to rivaling Comic-Con, we definitely learned a lot from it.  It’s the perfect way to celebrate the culture, meet your brethren and in some cases come home with that grand prized possession……

 Grails

Ahh yes, the reason we do it. That one comic, toy, sneaker, autograph, etc. that got away. Some of us are fortunate and may be able to find that Grail in a retro or maybe it wasn't that popular enough and you can get it from your local comic shop.

“My Grail”

But, that’s not always the case is it? Sometimes it’s far too limited or expensive for us to get our hands on. Sometimes it doesn't come in your size or even your country.  Sometimes it’s just plain not meant to be. But the search continues never the less. This is what binds our obsessions and our culture. 

Happy hunting. - LeMar G.