I figure we should have a thread for Rare, I mean, they must have been a part of everyone's childhood here, and up until the Gamecube/original Xbox, were one of the most high profile video game developers in the world.
I would say that something happened to Rare at a certain point. Maybe they got too full of themselves? Their games became too overambitious, too much stuff added on top and less focus on the core game. This started rearing it's head around DK64, but it got more pronounced as they went on, and started releasing less games until they all but died this gen.
However, throughout the NES, SNES, and N64, they were one of the best out there. They've made beat em ups (Battletoads), 2D platformers, (DKC series), 3D playgrounds (Blast Corps), adventure games (Wizards & Warriors) , racing (RC Pro AM), fighting games (Killer Instinct), FPS games (GoldenEye), 3D platformers (Banjo Kazooie), and simulation games (Viva Pinata!)... Don't just take my word for it, check out the incredible amount of games Rare (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Rare_games) has made since 1982! Almost 30 years old, and they've done almost everything.
Rare truly did it all, so it's a shame that currently they are doing nothing at all. (Wiisports clones aside)
EDIT: Link fixes
I'd like to blame Microsoft buying out Rare being their downfall, but like you said, that was happening for a little while.
From what I can remember of DK 64, it was stuck up it's ass in collecting quests, Star Fox Adventures is more proof that no Zelda clone will ever be half as entertaining as your average Zelda game, and PDZ and Kameo probably had a lot of their problems going on since their Gamecube days.
But yeah, their older games are classics. I still love the Banjos, DKCs, and everything else.
Well, keep in mind a number of Rare employees left the company after they wrapped up Goldeneye (or was it Perfect Dark?) to form Free Radical, who produced the excellent Timesplitters series. I'm sure that probably had an effect on their output in the late N64 years that still haunts them to this day.
It's also worth pointing out their development cycles back in the late 90s mirror Square-Enix today. You had them announce a huge laundry list of titles, most of which spent a decade in development hell, and went through numerous reboots and fresh takes until they finally made it to the market. That problem didn't seem to exist prior to becoming a Nintendo, second party either, just look at their output before they had to begin developing SNES games.
I feel like the guys in charge at Rare just went completely off their rocker at the ushering in of the 21st century.
Star Fox Adventures was plagued by "WTF?" design choices, the best example being the last twenty minutes of the game. You don't get to fight General Scales, his cronies were actually kind-hearted guys the whole time and were only assholes because he forced them to be, and it is revealed that Andross has been pulling the strings the whole time. The final boss battle is then conducted entirely in the Arwing, despite the fact that the game's other Arwing sections combined probably averaged about 15 minutes of the total gameplay time and were basically there to function as palette cleansers similar to the EPA levels in F.E.A.R. 2.
I remember at one point they said that if they ever made a sequel to Conker's Bad Fur Day, Conker would die in the opening cutscene (I can't remember what their reasoning behind this was, though).
Perfect Dark Zero's single-player campaign had some of the poorest and most confusing level design I have EVER seen in a FPS, while the multiplayer was essentially a cut-and-paste of Halo 2's with different character models.
Kameo might be the least memorable big-budget game on the Xbox 360.
And, of course, they ended up making Nuts & Bolts instead of Banjo-Threeie because "3D platformers aren't fun anymore."
Well, Square is pretty hefty with their development, and so was Rare, but they clearly had more manpower back then. the difference I'd think is that Rare used to actually release more than one game a year and in different genres. I mean, check out what Rare put out in less than two years:
Blast Corps - 1997
GoldenEye 007 - 1997
Diddy Kong Racing - 1997
Banjo-Kazooie - 1998
All high quality, different genres, and high sellers. No company did that back then outside of Nintendo, and nobody does that now. Up until about 1999, they pretty much were a literal game factory.
But after that point, I think (Conker and Perfect Dark aside) they seemed to lose the plot. I think they began to focus less on game design and more on gloss and extras that add little to the game. Perfect Dark Zero was embarrassing, BK3 was abandoned early in development because apparently it was too hard to make a good one, Grabbed By the Ghoulies, and all the pointless extras added in the DKC GBA ports...
I'm not sure who is in charge of Rare these days, but they really shouldn't be.
It's too bad their portable team seems to have been disassembled, it would have been nice to see what they could have done on the 3DS.
Oh Christ, Grabbed By The Ghoulies... That one was just embarrassing...
One thing that put me out of the Rare camp was when David Wise left. The man is seriously one of the best VG composers out there (in my top 3) and to hear he had to leave because Rare wasn't doing anything was just sad.
Quote from: Foggle on January 29, 2011, 09:02:48 PM
Oh Christ, Grabbed By The Ghoulies... That one was just embarrassing...
Did you actually ever play Ghoulies? I owned the game and thought it was very fun, challenging and hilarious. The game got lambasted by reviewers for rather petty reasons, the only legit one being it's length. Certainly not Rare's "worst game ever" like it's sometimes labeled.
Anyway I was a Rare fan for a while. From the days of Battletoads, Donkey Kong Country and Killer Instinct to their pre-Kinect days I supported them. There were some games that I thought were lackluster, such as the Xbox Conker remake and Kameo (never played PDZ), but overall I enjoyed their outing from what I played. I know that they ran into big problems both last gen and especially this current gen with their games being revamped or simply canceled. The biggest examples of which were a Battletoads game for the GBA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2JUVIIAa5lo) and Sabreman Stampede (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6RbzE51k1I0), the latter notably using the unreleased Donkey Kong Racing engine. Even so I'm surprised that none of their post N64 games were big in sales. You would think that at a $40 price tag and starring Banjo and Kazooie that Nuts & Bolts would have been Rare's come back, but no. The worst part about it is that it was the final nail in the coffin for old Rare and now their main focus seems to be only Kinect games, going as far as mentioning the idea for a Killer Instinct game for the Kinect. Probably the biggest slap in the face for fans eagerly awaiting a KI3.
That said, I agree that it's a shame to see a once opportunistic company go down the shitter and focus only on casual gaming.
Quote from: SSJ Jake on January 29, 2011, 10:38:03 PM
Quote from: Foggle on January 29, 2011, 09:02:48 PM
Oh Christ, Grabbed By The Ghoulies... That one was just embarrassing...
Did you actually ever play Ghoulies? I owned the game and thought it was very fun, challenging and hilarious. The game got lambasted by reviewers for rather petty reasons, the only legit one being it's length. Certainly not Rare's "worst game ever" like it's sometimes labeled.
Not at length. I rented it and played it for about 2 hours before I put it back in the case and never touched it again (except to take it back to Blockbuster).
But, you're right. It's definitely not their worst game. In fact, Nuts & Bolts aside (since I never really got to play it), it's probably the best original game they've made since being bought by Microsoft.
I find it funny how its in everyone's nature to only focus on the negative aspects of Rare in their posts. You all give them praise for the "good ol'" days for about 1 or 2 sentences, and then go onto complain about how they aren't what they used to be. I mean, that's fine and all, but personally I'm sick of all the bitching. How about having some more conversations focused on what games we actually liked from the company. Something like, oh, I don't know, the classic DKC games, maybe? Or the good half of their games on the N64?
I for one want to bring up that I find Jet Force Geimini to be an underrated Rare classic. My favorite games from them remain to be the first 2 DKC games, though.
Honestly, I liked all of their N64 games. All of them.
Yes, that includes DK 64. I can still recite the DK rap from memory.
I liked Grabbed by the Ghoulies myself. It's not as great as their classics, but I thought the joystick combat controls were a nice change of pace, and I loved how everything was a weapon in the game.
I probably played that two or three times.
I've never played DK64 myself, so I wouldn't know whether its good or bad. But, knowing that its in human nature for people to bitch about things, I don't really take anyone's word for it on whether DK64 is good or bad. When the time comes that I get an opportunity to try it out for myself, I will, and I'll judge it for myself, as well.
Donkey Kong 64 is my favorite N64 game. Yeah, I said it. It may be a collect-a-thon but the collector in me loved that shit and I enjoyed going down my list of stuff I had so far. The only parts that really bothered me was the low lighting in some levels (Creepy Castle is nearly unplayable if you're playing during the daytime) and the framerate dropping at weird moments.
Also, before I discovered the Street Fighter Alpha series, Killer Instinct was my favorite fighting game. I thought it did a great job mixing in elements from both Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat, and was far more beginner friendly than those two as well. The cast was especially well balanced considering Rare wasn't known for making fighting games before this. I still need to play the sequel though.
Please stop with the DK64 love! It's killing me! :burn:
I still rather like Perfect Dark a lot (the XBLA remake further solidified how much I like it) and by extension the Timesplitters games (even though the first feels rushed) I like the way the levels are simple in how small and straightforward they are, but feature a lot of side stuff that you could potentially miss out on if you blast through it. Also, I love how the game changes tremendously when you play it on higher difficulty levels by giving you more objectives.
The weapons in that game were awesome, the multiplayer is still one of the best because of the amazing maps and weapons in it, all the extras are actually relevant to the genre of game it is, and the shooting feels great.
Rare was a bit of a mixed bag for me overall, (didn't like a bunch of their NES games, Tooie, or DK64) but when they hit the mark... Man, they hit it good.
Quote from: Desensitized on January 29, 2011, 11:19:00 PM
Please stop with the DK64 love! It's killing me! :burn:
dealwithit.tiff
Oh, another aspect people seemed to overlook in the game was the boss multiplayer. Yeah, it stinks that you have to unlock it before being able to use it, but once you do, you've gained another 50 hours of the game at least. I remember the first time I had enough people with BYOC to play a 4 player match, and we were up all night playing the game. I think my mom got pissed because we were all still fairly young at that point, and my little brother was too young to be up that late, and we had completely neglected to eat the Burger King meals we had bought right before getting home. But we didn't care because we were having a total blast hitting each other with fruit ammo and orange grenades and sometimes meeting our ends by running and stomping each other.
Also, Jetpac and Donkey Kong were awesome bonus games. I remember Jetpac was fairly simple, but some of those later levels had those ridiculous UFOs that homed in on you, and Donkey Kong was so primitive you couldn't do the same long/high jumps with Mario and it brought out some great rage moments for me. Especially the second playthrough to get that coin.
Man, with all these memories, I have such a hard time remembering DK64 as a bad game.
It was mostly because of my nostalgia of Donkey Kong 64, that I decided to download the Jetpac Refulled off of Xbox Live as soon as I got my Xbox 360 Connected after I bought it for my 19th Birthday. It was basically the same game that I remember playing on DK64, but with the new twists they made for the remake.
With that said, it wouldn't surprise you if I said that I enjoyed what I've played of Viva Pinata, now would it? I thought that out of Rare's recent Xbox 360 outings, this was their best game in my opinion, and I am not kidding on this one. Maybe it's the part of me that loves collecting different kinds of creatures in me that's talking, but I found a lot to like about Viva Pinata, from the food puns of the animals, to the designs, and even that CGI cartoon that aired on 4Kids block.
Good lord, yes, Donkey Kong 64's multiplayer was ace! :swoon:
Conker's multiplayer was insane. I was playing that one for years with my friends.
Quote from: Desensitized on January 30, 2011, 02:25:29 AM
Conker's multiplayer was insane. I was playing that one for years with my friends.
Unfortunately, I never really had a chance to play Conker's multiplayer (Live & Reloaded doesn't count...). :(
Quote from: Foggle on January 30, 2011, 09:55:23 AM
Quote from: Desensitized on January 30, 2011, 02:25:29 AM
Conker's multiplayer was insane. I was playing that one for years with my friends.
Unfortunately, I never really had a chance to play Conker's multiplayer (Live & Reloaded doesn't count...). :(
To this day, I'm not sure why they removed the multiplayer modes from the original in the port. They had a bunch of vastly different modes with different gimmicks that made them tons of fun to play through.
I don't really know why they took them all out for, they were some of the best parts of the game.
Old school Rare is honestly my favorite developer of all time. From Jet Force Gemini to Donkey Kong Country 2 to Battletoads, they've made a lot of games I love. I don't know too many developers that have had a track record as good as theirs. Everyone knows Sega and Nintendo have been pissing me off but I think Rare has been great even up until they became Free Radical. I believe TimeSplitters 2 was their last great game. I haven't played TP3 yet so I have no comment on that. I also like Second Sight. That's a solid overlooked game. So yeah, unlike probably all of the other old names, I think Rare was great up until their dying breath.
Rareware didn't become Free Radical. Free Radical formed after 007 wrapped up and a number of Rare employees left to create that studio. Rare continued on and in 2002, was absorbed by Microsoft's game division and they still exist today.
And Free Radical made Haze and killed themselves. Crytek basically bought them up and use whatever's left as Crytek UK.
Unfortunately, they're sitting on the Timesplitters IP and don't seem to want to do anything with it.
Quote from: Desensitized on February 07, 2011, 03:27:07 PM
And Free Radical made Haze and killed themselves.
That game... had some of the worst dialogue I've EVER fucking heard. Yes, I know it's because the soldiers are extremely high all the time, but it was just downright terrible.
The gameplay and story weren't half bad though, barring the fact that the former was fairly generic and the latter had its major plot-twist revealed
in its advertisements pre-release.
I just couldn't believe they made that before a proper Timesplitters game for the new consoles.
In gaming, you do the safe game first BEFORE the radically new one or else it could tarnish your name and brand or at worst... well, at worst you get what happened to FR after Haze.
I just played through the single player in Future Perfect last year and it was still awesome and fun. They clearly hit it right enough with the TS series, so it was a shame that we lost it because of this monumentally bad decision. (Not to mention canceling an FPS on the Xbox 360 is just plain nutty like canceling a mascot platformer on the SNES)
It was supposed to be on the PC, as well. There's an idea, cancel it on the two platforms people usually buy FPS games for to release it on the system that not only has the shittiest online service but also costs $500+ (at the time, I mean)! Brilliant!
http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=421821 (http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=421821)
I really wish that rumor of the Stamper Bros. opening a new studio in the old Rare building and gathering old employees was true. There are some talented folks out there who don't deserve this crap happening to them.
I'm pretty certain they're on their last legs now.
The creator of Conker speaks out. (http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2012/09/ex_rare_staffer_exodus_wouldnt_have_happened_under_nintendo)
Sounds about right. Imagine all the stuff they could've made if Rare stuck with Nintendo.
It's particularly disappointing because nobody really makes games like Rare anymore, they added a good variety into the industry even with stuff I didn't like from them like DK64 or Grabbed By the Ghoulies.
I guess it's nice that Eurocom took their FPS ideas and modernized them and Retro did a good job on the new DKC, but I do miss their Jet Force Geminis, their Conkers, their Banjo Kazooies, and their Diddy Kong Racings. Nobody makes games like those anymore.
"Hey, so Microsoft, can we make a new Banjo? Or maybe a Conker? Killer Instinct?"
"Nonsense! Developer's like you need to make KINECT GAMES!"
Don't forget their brief run with their Pok?mon Clone, Viva Pinata. I will say that from what I've played of Viva Pinata, it was a pretty good game. I will attest to that. I even gave that game to a friend of mine back in High School and he got addicted to it. When People bring up Rare I still think that the VP was a good outing for them. Shame it didn't last long considering I can see why a pre-double digit Daxdiv wouldn't like it, too much management in the game, but man those Pinatas were cool.
Microsoft would have an incredible first party lineup if they let Rare do what they want to. What a terrible loss.
On a more lighter note, here's some unseen footage of Twelve Tails (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M6ceNFV2yz4), and Dinosaur Planet. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOVBRJToVDY)
Twelve Tails looks and feels so much like Banjo-Kazooie. On that end, I can kinda see why they made such a drastic change in direction as they did; while I'm sure the original would have had its fair share of nostalgia (and it looks like a solid platformer all the same), the game, and the Conker character himself, probably would have ended up rather forgotten about in comparison. Hard to say, though.
I've always wondered if a finished (or near finished) version of this game, before it became BFD, exists anywhere, in any form. Every video I've ever seen of it, it looks very close to being complete.
If it was anywhere near as good as BFD, mature themes or not, it probably would have been great either way.
Shame they never made a 3D platformer after it, though.
Any hopes for this? (http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2012/09/ex_rare_developers_join_forces_to_create_a_spiritual_successor_to_banjo_tooie)
Might be cool!
(https://animationrevelation.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi407.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fpp160%2FDaxdiv%2FGIF%2520Party%2Friselickslips.gif&hash=a0373f934bcf68e80432e53e8a926370999d4559)
I want to believe!
(https://animationrevelation.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.tvchitchat.net%2Fimages%2Fmulders-poster2.gif&hash=98c58920ddb038e6cef9c5e919310486cff05c5a)
Don't wanna get my hopes up too much at this point, but man... this would be sweeeeeeeeeet.
The inner boy in me would be happy.
And the inner MJ in me would like the inner boy in me.
I'm just glad to see there's enough employees that can form a working development team. Just about everyone else has moved into mobile games or retired.
There better be a shitload of collectibles too.
Quote from: Rosalinas Spare Wand on September 26, 2012, 08:58:24 PMThere better be a shitload of collectibles too.
As much as I didn't like DK64... I would probably still want that.
We haven't had a single platformer like this since Jak & Daxter, and I'm really eager to play another one.
Wasn't Epic Mickey supposed to play like an N64 collect-a-thon or something?
Quote from: Rynnec on September 26, 2012, 11:20:27 PM
Wasn't Epic Mickey supposed to play like an N64 collect-a-thon or something?
Ehhhhh... it has elements, but it's more straightforward than a traditional one.
I hope it would be more "Kazooie" than "Tooie" but I'd look forward to it.
Another rumor about the whole Nintendo/Rare/Microsoft triangle (http://www.gonintendo.com/?mode=viewstory&id=206695)
QuoteWhy the Stampers left...
When Rare became a "second party", Nintendo initially only bought around 10% of the company, not 49%. Every time the Stampers needed more money, they sold a few more percentage points to Nintendo. Eventually the Stampers ended up having sold 49%.
The Stampers needed another hit of cash, but they didn't want to sell 2% of the company and become "minority shareholders" in a company that was not owned by them. Rare's stock price was at an all-time high, so they decided it was time to cash out.
Nintendo had been willing to spend a few thousand here, a few thousand there, but they weren't willing to spend $500 million all-at-once. They would rather gain $500 million all-at-once. Nintendo asked the Stampers to find a new buyer.
Microsoft was willing to buy, but they didn't want to become partners with Nintendo, so Nintendo sold their 49% back to the Stampers on credit, and the Stampers sold the whole thing to Microsoft.
Who owns what between the two companies...
Want to know something painful? Nintendo actually owned all of Rare's IPs (the ones created while they were together). If you're aware of some games that claimed to be owned by Rare, those are really just a lie. Nintendo owned a completely different company that was also called Rare, and that company owned any Rare IP that wasn't owned by Nintendo directly.
When Rare was packing up to leave, Nintendo sold them a rights package containing some specific IPs that the Stampers wanted to own. NOA did this because Arakawa/Lincoln and the Stampers are buddies. That's why, for example, Nintendo owns Krystal (a character Rare created for a Starfox game), while Rare owns Conker (a character Rare created for a Donkey Kong game). There was no ruleset for the divorce, NOA and Rare just worked it out like gentlemen.
That's why they remained close enough to work on handheld games.
What a mess and a shame.
Perhaps even worse is the fact that the current standing of the company doesn't even know what to do with these IP's.
I mean, their last non-Kinect title was five years ago. Just let that sink in.
I don't understand what part of that is a rumor. That stuff was common knowledge for a while, in fact Eurogamer did a whole write-up on the events about a year ago.
http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-02-08-who-killed-rare (http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-02-08-who-killed-rare)
Bumping this to say that Europe is getting the DKC and DKL games released on their VC starting this week. NA should be getting them soon as well.
If you've got a 3DS and/or Wii U, I highly recommend them all.
It's sad when you read about Rare's history.
I do have a feeling that it wouldn't be much better if they had stuck with Nintendo, though.
Quote from: talonmalon333 on December 25, 2014, 10:47:05 PMI do have a feeling that it wouldn't be much better if they had stuck with Nintendo, though.
Their creative staff wouldn't be laid off and their games wouldn't suck or be sent to other studios to make half-assed sequels. (Also, Banjo would be in Smash by now.)
Oh, what a horrible fate to be with Nintendo!
Quote from: Daikun on December 25, 2014, 11:04:37 PM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on December 25, 2014, 10:47:05 PMI do have a feeling that it wouldn't be much better if they had stuck with Nintendo, though.
Their creative staff wouldn't be laid off and their games wouldn't suck or be sent to other studios to make half-assed sequels. (Also, Banjo would be in Smash by now.)
Oh, what a horrible fate to be with Nintendo!
Donkey Kong 64
Also, didn't a chunk of the Rare team leave during the N64 era?
Daikun's right. The reason Rare went down the crapper is twofold:
1. They had no upper management to organize them. Microsoft's only involvement was to stop by to pick up the final product, basically. From what I've seen written by ex-Rare staffers and people at Retro and Next Level Games, Nintendo is very hands-on with quality control. They were involved in every aspect of development from spit-balling ideas to "tightening up those graphics on level 2" (so to speak) which contributed to much of why their games were so good. They were, for all intents and purposes a first party studio at the time.
2. Talent was wasted. David Wise left the company after five years of literally doing nothing except (get this) the music for the GBA DKC3 port. He did it because he had nothing better to do. Yes, Rare had one of the best video game composers doing nothing for years sitting around and twiddling his thumbs. Nobody is left at the company from the old days because most of them didn't have anything to do, and had no one to guide them.
This is why I'm floored that Nintendo has never tried to find the old Rare staffers (and Free Radical, while we're at it) and form a new studio around them. There is little to no one who wouldn't want that to happen.
I wish they'd stayed with Nintendo too, but I'm pretty sure MS was only allowed to grab them because the big N didn't care enough about Rareware to shell out the cash to make them first party. So maybe there were already internal problems before Rare went to Microsoft, because I can't see Nintendo passing up the opportunity to purchase them in their prime.
Free Radical?
Quote from: Foggle on December 25, 2014, 11:27:26 PMI'm pretty sure MS was only allowed to grab them because the big N didn't care enough about Rareware to shell out the cash to make them first party. So maybe there were already internal problems before Rare went to Microsoft, because I can't see Nintendo passing up the opportunity to purchase them in their prime.
That's one of the reasons I wonder. And like I said above, team members apparently left during the N64 era, and the problems began as early as Donkey Kong 64.
I'm not really sure I'd say the problems began with Donkey Kong 64. That game is almost certainly the product of a studio trying too hard to one-up themselves after a previous release in the same genre (Banjo-Kazooie), and also because it was the first time their most popular series appeared on a more powerful console. They fell victim to their own hype, basically - which can happen to even the most talented of people.
Nintendo had the option to buy them 100% or let them go find someone else. Nintendo didn't want the commitment so Microsoft offered instead. Can't really blame them, they were going for a lot of money at the time. There didn't appear to be any bad blood between Nintendo and Rare when they parted. Considering ex-Rare staffers keep popping up in Nintendo games, I believe that's true.
Though I didn't like DK64 or most of their Microsoft games, they did have the talent. Now they don't.
Quote from: talonmalon333 on December 25, 2014, 11:35:28 PM
Free Radical?
The FPS team that left to make Timesplitters after GoldenEye.
Quote from: Foggle on December 25, 2014, 11:42:44 PM
I'm not really sure I'd say the problems began with Donkey Kong 64. That game is almost certainly the product of a studio trying too hard to one-up themselves after a previous release in the same genre (Banjo-Kazooie), and also because it was the first time their most popular series appeared on a more powerful console. They fell victim to their own hype, basically - which can happen to even the most talented of people.
You could see through all their N64 games. They were getting more bloated and gimmicky, less focused on core gameplay. DK64 is sort of the end point of that, but since they never made another game like that afterwards, it's hard to tell what was going on.
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on December 25, 2014, 11:45:45 PM
You could see through all their N64 games. They were getting more bloated and gimmicky, less focused on core gameplay. DK64 is sort of the end point of that, but since they never made another game like that afterwards, it's hard to tell what was going on.
Banjo-Tooie came out after Donkey Kong 64. It was the same kind of game, and it was amazing.
Quote from: Foggle on December 26, 2014, 12:18:29 AM
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on December 25, 2014, 11:45:45 PM
You could see through all their N64 games. They were getting more bloated and gimmicky, less focused on core gameplay. DK64 is sort of the end point of that, but since they never made another game like that afterwards, it's hard to tell what was going on.
Banjo-Tooie came out after Donkey Kong 64. It was the same kind of game, and it was amazing.
:humhumhum:
You are not allowed to diss B-T in my presence. :devil:
*Opens mouth to say something.*
Quote from: Foggle on December 26, 2014, 12:23:12 AM
You are not allowed to diss B-T in my presence. :devil:
*Shuts up.*
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on December 25, 2014, 11:45:45 PM
You could see through all their N64 games. They were getting more bloated and gimmicky, less focused on core gameplay. DK64 is sort of the end point of that, but since they never made another game like that afterwards, it's hard to tell what was going on.
I'd say the first signs were even earlier, as far back as DKC3.
Quote from: Daikun on December 25, 2014, 11:04:37 PM
(Also, Banjo would be in Smash by now.)
(https://animationrevelation.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FSmjIFbw.png&hash=4ed711ea5d467c6892b95490c916115dc174ea68)
Every day I think about how Duck Hunt has a skin color that makes the Dog & Duck look like Banjo & Kazooie. This is why my fantasy dream game is a Duck Hunt reboot in the style of Banjo-Kazooie where the Dog is called Duck & the Duck is called Hunt. Also, get Grant Kirkhope to do the music. But, since the VC game came out, my dream is just that.
Also, I still find it interesting that Nintendo allowed Rare to have every character they created back, instead of sitting on them. I remember one former Rare staffer mentioned that when some Microsoft guys saw Donkey Kong stuff in their offices, they thought they had the rights to Donkey Kong. Makes me wonder how Nintendo would have handled Conker & Banjo-Kazooie. Especially considering nowadays since Nintendo did tell Platinum Games that Bayonetta didn't need an undershirt for her Nintendo inspired costumes.
I mean, I still find Viva Pinata to be a fun experience. It just suffers a bit for its art. Looks too kiddie for adults to take it seriously & the game is something I don't imagine giving to a kid due to some complex stuff. Nuts & Bolts probably would have not gotten as much hate if they didn't repurpose it as a Banjo-Kazooie & make it a new IP, even if it would have gone the way of Kameo & Viva Pinata.
http://www.playtonicgames.com/
QuoteWelcome to Playtonic Games, home of an all new 'rare-breed' of game creators!
Playtonic is a new 'indie' studio formed entirely from veterans of the legendary game developer Rare Ltd.
Having helped create many hits, including the Donkey Kong Country & Banjo Kazooie series of games, we're now on a mission to bring you the video game stars of the future that are inspired by our past!
If you've made it this far towards our fine internet abode, then you've probably worked out that we're a new game developer, formed by some blokes who did those games you may or may not have liked as a nipper.
However, if you've stumbled here by accident in search of non-sexual relationship advice, allow us to explain what on Earth is going on...
Playtonic's the name, and fun games, unique characters and absolutely-frickin-amazing worlds to explore are our game. Or at least they will be, once we eventually get around to releasing our first project instead of faffing around on WordPress.
Ahem. Currently we're a sextet of artists, programmers and designers – sort of like The Pussycat Dolls with computer science degress – with one thing in common; we were all once core member of famous UK studio Rare, where we helmed franchises such as Banjo-Kazooie, Donkey Kong Country and Viva Piñata.
We've got the bloke who programmed Donkey Kong Country, the character designer behind Banjo and Kazooie, and the artist who made your console fit to burst with lavish environments across a decade's worth of adventure games.
Together, our all-star ensemble is aiming to build its debut game, 'Project Ukulele', into a worthy spiritual successor to those fondly remembered platforming adventures we built in the past.
By now, you might be thinking, 'hold on mate, didn't you make similar claims after drinking too many shandies in the pub in 2012, you muppet?' Perhaps. But this time it's real! We're making a real, proper, actual game. Look: we even managed to trick convince Edge magazine to do us some pages!
You can read all about our venture and see the first artwork for our game in Edge issue 277, which is on sale from February 12.
Join us on our epic quest - Dream of a fun filled future of mega-awesome games! As we get back to our roots - creating unforgettable fun, unforgettable characters and unforgettable experiences, all sprinkled with a hint of magic dust from a golden age of gaming! Subscribe to receive the latest news and updates and opportunities to help shape our games!
AHHHHHHHHH I'M SO EXCITED :joy: :joy: :joy: :joy: :joy:
We were just talking about something like this. Nice timing. :P
This is great to hear. Now all that needs to happen is they collaborate with Nintendo to make a Donkey Kong game. I doubt it'll happen, though. But I would be interested in seeing them make a DKC type of game without Donkey Kong. It'd be interesting to see it and how it compares to Retro's DK games.
Here's hoping for a great future for them, like the old days.
Quote from: http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?p=151438682Yes there is an interview with Playtonic, there's 6 full time staff now and they hope to grow to 15 staff. First game is a spiritual successor to Banjo Kazooie and they have funding but would like to work with a publisher if it is mutual. "There's a history of working with Nintendo so we'd naturally love to see our game on a Nintendo platform. If people tell us to make Wii U our target console platform then we've got the flexibility to do that." Game will come to Steam early access and certain consoles as soon as they can.
By the way, this had me thinking. Did they change their name from Rareware to Rare when they were bought by Microsoft?
i hope it's not a wii u exclusive.
I will keep my eyes on this. I have been waiting for them to do this for years.
Now if only they could get the ex-Free Radical guys as well.
Quote from: gunswordfist on February 10, 2015, 12:19:48 PM
i hope it's not a wii u exclusive.
Only if Nintendo outright buys them or they have a relationship with them like Yacht Club Games. Either way I would expect at least a PC version.
Quote
"Over the coming months we'll reveal more about our project and future growth plans, and we very much intend to get you involved and listen to your views on our game's direction. You'll ultimately shape the destination of our project and we plan to continue exchanging sweet glances across cyberspace at you until we get there.
There's a history of working with Nintendo so we'd naturally love to see our game on a Nintendo platform. If people tell us to make Wii U our target console platform then we've got the flexibility to do that."- Playtonic
Perfect dark and timesplitters 2 are my favorite multiplayer fpses so that would be lovely.
You can nearly see one of them! (http://www.gonintendo.com/s/247001-project-ukulele-another-look-at-the-teaser-art)
Rare should just give these guys the rights to Conker and Banjo. They aren't doing anything with those franchises, anyway, and they probably won't be.
Also...
Quote from: talonmalon333 on February 10, 2015, 11:28:53 AM
By the way, this had me thinking. Did they change their name from Rareware to Rare when they were bought by Microsoft?
I can see them buy the rights to Banjo and Conker back if they make a successful game or two first. It does seem like a good idea for Playtonic to try their own IPs first, before dipping their hands back into the classics.
This is awesome, though!
Quote from: Foggle on February 10, 2015, 10:59:58 AMhttp://www.playtonicgames.com/
AHHHHHHHHH I'M SO EXCITED :joy: :joy: :joy: :joy: :joy:
The website could use a bit of punching up; it looks a bit 90s-ish.
This is still great news, though!
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on February 10, 2015, 08:09:56 PM
You can nearly see one of them! (http://www.gonintendo.com/s/247001-project-ukulele-another-look-at-the-teaser-art)
One of them looks like a tapir or an anteater.
heh, a tapir.
I thought I'd point out some things I got from the recent reveals.
Some telling comments from PlayTonic's interview about current Rare:
QuoteImagine there's an alternative timeline where Rare became independent instead of being bought by Microsoft. What would that company be like? What would it have gone on to become? That's our ambition.
QuoteFor me, the appeal is that I'll be able to create characters for a game myself again, creating a whole chain of animation, whereas at Rare now, you're just a small cog... you have to filter through three or four different people before something is approved.
It also seems fairly obvious what Project Ukelele is going to be.
QuoteWithout giving the game away, I think it's pretty obvious what kind of game we're making from the history of the team. We consider it a spiritual successor to Banjo-Kazooie. We want to make a game where you control a fun character, learn new skills, add some new twists to the genre, and also listen to Grant's tunes!
Also, who the team consists of:
QuotePlaytonic is made up of so much famous Rare talent that it makes you genuinely wonder how much of the "old" Rare is still left at the company's Twycross HQ. [Gavin] Price was a designer on Viva Piñata, Conker's Bad Fur Day, Banjo Tooie and Jet Force Gemini, while [Chris] Sutherland was lead programmer on Donkey Kong County and the Banjo-Kazooie games. Steve Mayles created Banjo and his friends, and is the brother of Gregg Mayles, one of the longest-serving Rare employees. These three core members are joined by the likes of Steve Hurst (Banjo-Kazooie, GoldenEye 007), Mark Stevenson (Kameo art lead) and Jens Restemeier (Perfect Dark Zero software engineer). To cap it all off, former Rare musician Grant Kirkhope has stated that he will be helping the studio out with audio, presumably on a freelance basis.
The current plan is to expand the team to around 15 people in order to create a title which should appeal to fans of Rare's '90s output.
They should get David Wise in there. Grant Kirkhope is good but I was never as big on his tunes.
get me a time machine. i don't feel like waiting for this game to come out!
Grant Kirkhope's BK soundtrack is excellent. To be honest, for a BK spiritual successor he would be needed to complete the transition.
If they want to hire David Wise or Robin Beanland (is he freelance now?) or the other ex-Rare sound dudes for future projects, I'd be all for it.
Some concept art was put out there:
(https://animationrevelation.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fs27.postimg.org%2Fczy18ojf7%2Fproject_ukulele_1.png&hash=4f25a2a45558b39540616dcaf3517a1a374fcc7a)
(https://animationrevelation.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fs28.postimg.org%2Fe1qw9hibh%2Fproject_ukulele_conceptart.png&hash=98805d08fd742790b2f92e03e2c30d508b5853f8)
(https://animationrevelation.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fs7.postimg.org%2Fu1owczv23%2Fproject_ukulele_2.png&hash=7a4ac2b534248f7993ba30e8460f64f5a65362b0)
(https://animationrevelation.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fs22.postimg.org%2F9jamq5pa9%2Fproject_ukulele_3.png&hash=c369de2f0b7b70c29b7937dc5083fcc00be6e880)
Still haven't revealed the main characters yet, but it looks very Rare.
Playtonic's game has three composers.
Obviously, one of them is Grant Kirkhope.
Another is Steve Burke.
The third is David Wise. Yes, really. :joy: :joy: :joy:
oooooohhhhhhhhhh!!!
Someday, they are going to be bought by Nintendo. Callin' it now.
*slaps talon*
Quote from: Foggle on February 14, 2015, 11:34:53 AM
Playtonic's game has three composers.
Cool. Who are they?
Quote from: Foggle on February 14, 2015, 11:34:53 AMObviously, one of them is Grant Kirkhope.
Of course.
Quote from: Foggle on February 14, 2015, 11:34:53 AMAnother is Steve Burke.
Can't complain!
Quote from: Foggle on February 14, 2015, 11:34:53 AMThe third is David Wise. Yes, really. :joy: :joy: :joy:
(https://animationrevelation.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi166.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fu100%2FJDesensitized%2F143306d7.gif&hash=57e668934e7d653a9d3fe754f79cb0cc8eb47993)
I do want to see them do a 2D platformer. They made some nice 3D platformers but they weren't as good.
Also, we should separate Rareware (AKA the Nintendo era) from Rare (AKA the Microsoft era), and pair Rareware up with Playtonic in discussion.
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on February 16, 2015, 01:24:21 PM
(https://animationrevelation.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi166.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fu100%2FJDesensitized%2F143306d7.gif&hash=57e668934e7d653a9d3fe754f79cb0cc8eb47993)
That was my reaction too. :lol: This soundtrack is going to be wonderful!
Quote from: talonmalon333 on February 16, 2015, 02:21:51 PM
I do want to see them do a 2D platformer. They made some nice 3D platformers but they weren't as good.
Conker's Bad Fur Day hasn't aged well and DK64 is bloated to the point of tedium, but the Banjo games are just as good as the Donkey Kong Country trilogy IMO. And while I love 2D platformers, we don't really get many 3D ones these days, with approximately 0 of them being collectathons - so I'm very happy with their first project.
Heck, I'm the biggest 2D apologist on this site and I think they should stick to 3D platformers. We have a lot of indie 2D games coming out, 3D games need more representatives. And who better to do that than the team most associated with them?
I agree with both of you. But I do want to see them make at least one 2D platformer. :P
Oh yeah, I'd love to see them do other things, including a 2D platformer or two. But it would be absolutely wonderful having more high profile good 3D platformers out there than just Mario and Ratchet.
As far as 2D platformers go, I'd like to see them match the aesthetic of DKC. That's something DKCR didn't do in my opinion.
They can make a BK successor, a JFG successor, and a Conker successor (structure-wise for single-player and multiplayer), and then they can make a 2D platformer.
They've got catching up to do!
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on February 16, 2015, 03:00:05 PM
They can make a BK successor, a JFG successor, and a Conker successor (structure-wise for single-player and multiplayer), and then they can make a 2D platformer.
They've got catching up to do!
Yes! And they should do a Perfect Dark successor as well. As old-school as possible. Gimme' them optional objectives and stealth, and split-screen multiplayer with bots. ;D
Quote from: talonmalon333 on February 16, 2015, 02:59:24 PM
As far as 2D platformers go, I'd like to see them match the aesthetic of DKC. That's something DKCR didn't do in my opinion.
I agree as far as Returns goes, but I think Tropical Freeze has some of the best graphics in any game.
Those franchises don't merely need successors. They need sequels. From Playtonic.
PlayTonic needs the ex-Free Radical and GoldenEye staff.
STAT.
I want a single player campaign as good as GoldenEye and the latter two Timesplitters games and multiplayer as tight as Perfect Dark with the options of the TS series. Not to mention extra modes as good as those from Perfect Dark and a custom map editor even better than the ones from the Timesplitters series.
Man, these guys have a lot to live up to. :sweat:
How about Battletoads?
Quote from: talonmalon333 on February 16, 2015, 04:23:38 PM
How about Battletoads?
Commission WayForward to make the game and simply hand them design documents and general direction.
Double Dragon Neon proves they can do it.
I still think we ought to see a 3D Donkey Kong game done right.
Quote from: talonmalon333 on February 16, 2015, 05:50:04 PM
I still think we ought to see a 3D Donkey Kong game done right.
I would like to see that as well, but I think Retro is the right studio for that job. ;)
I'm over Retro making DK games. :thinkin:
You haven't even played Tropical Freeze. :thinkin:
I'm sure it's great, but I don't need a third game. I want to see them move onto other/new franchises/games. :P
Sure. After they finish their trilogy. :humhumhum:
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on February 16, 2015, 10:35:20 PM
Sure. After they finish their trilogy. :humhumhum:
We already have a DKC trilogy. It was released for the SNES. :D
Quote from: talonmalon333 on February 16, 2015, 10:36:41 PM
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on February 16, 2015, 10:35:20 PM
Sure. After they finish their trilogy. :humhumhum:
We already have a DKC trilogy. It was released for the SNES. :D
And now we can have another one. ;D
Tropical Freeze is the best Donkey Kong game ever so I wouldn't mind if Retro made a couple more.
Super Mario Galaxy 2 is my favorite Mario game, but I wasn't asking for a third game in that sub-series. :D
Quote from: talonmalon333 on February 16, 2015, 11:35:21 PM
Super Mario Galaxy 2 is my favorite Mario game, but I wasn't asking for a third game in that sub-series. :D
I am.
Then I guess I'm weird for wanting new things. :P
I just want good things. ;)
a jetforce gemini spirtual sequel would rock my world...
and perfect dark with a jump button, custom maps, better gadgets and better use of dual analog sticks.
Project Ukelele will be unveiled at EGX this Saturday! (http://www.gonintendo.com/s/248019-playtonic-to-reveal-project-ukelele-at-egx-rezzed)
Quote"It was the fans of our past work who inspired the creation of Playtonic, so we're delighted to be able to showcase our vision to them in person at EGX Rezzed - as well as a few cheeky details of our game!" - Gavin Price, Creative Director
The session is actually called: "A rare reunion: Rebirth of the 3d platformer".
Yes, it's actually called that.
:joy:
Quote from: http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2015/mar/13/playtonic-rare-banjo-kazooie-project-ukelele"We've very purposefully set up the company to feel like old Rare," says Price. "People are in close proximity to each other, we have conversations not documents going back and forth. We chat stuff through, we bounce ideas off each other. We haven't got this grand design document that spells out what the end product is going to look like. Nothing like that. It goes back to what Tim and Chris Stamper used to do - they just trusted everyone.
"And we don't have to earn each others' trust – we've been working with each other for so long. I didn't have to say anything to Chris about how our character should feel – I just turned round after about a day and I looked at Chris's screen and he's there controlling the character, running around. Straightaway it just felt amazing."
To facilitate this sense of freedom – this focus on design, rather than technology – Playtonic is using the Unity engine, a game creation system used by independent studios all over the world ("I was blown away by it," enthuses Sutherland. "Things that it used to take me weeks to do, I can do in minutes"). However, there is definitely a long-term plan here. Project Ukulele is going to include a large cast of non-player characters will be used to create a Marvel-like universe of interlocking stories.
"Players won't know who the star of our next game is, but they'll already of met them in Project Ukulele," says Price. "We're going to have a massive cast and we're purposely putting characters in there who could have their own games in the future, potentially in any genre that takes out fancy. It'll be great to have competitive multiplayer games where the whole roster comes together. Then, if we have an idea for maybe a little 2D platformer with one character, we can just go and do it, or a fun shooter with another one. They're all capable of meeting up in each other's titles. I always thought we should have done more of that at Rare."
The team is going to be at the PC gaming conference Rezzed, revealing some more details about its project. It's clear that they're hoping for a multi-platform release and have been talking to publishers – though they are adamant they will remain independent. Everyone wants to see this game on Wii U of course, the symbolic reunion of old Rare and old Nintendo. We'll have to see.
For now, there's just a fun buzz about the place. The plan is to grow the company to about 15 or 20 people to finish the game – an N64-sized dev team. Their first hire has been ex-journalist Andy Robinson in a community and marketing role. This is what British game studios used to be like in the 90s; just small groups of friends, firing ideas and jokes at each other, and allowing those things to sneak into their games. It's just that the people in this small office once turned that approach into an artform. When Tim Stamper kicked off development on Banjo-Kazooie he told his team that he wanted players to be able to come back to this game in 20 years and still find it fresh and beautiful. They pretty much achieved his ambition. Now it's time to do it again some place else.
:)
QuoteThe plan is to grow the company to about 15 or 20 people to finish the game – an N64-sized dev team.
If only more studios could do this, they wouldn't suffer from all that bloat.
Also, Chris Sutherland was the lead programmer on DKC2. If there's anyone I trust with directing a platformer, he would be the one.
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on March 13, 2015, 04:11:09 PM
QuoteThe plan is to grow the company to about 15 or 20 people to finish the game – an N64-sized dev team.
If only more studios could do this, they wouldn't suffer from all that bloat.
Yeah, we'd have games without bloat, like DK64. :sly:
Quote from: talonmalon333 on March 13, 2015, 06:02:58 PM
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on March 13, 2015, 04:11:09 PM
QuoteThe plan is to grow the company to about 15 or 20 people to finish the game – an N64-sized dev team.
If only more studios could do this, they wouldn't suffer from all that bloat.
Yeah, we'd have games without bloat, like DK64. :sly:
I'm talking budget-wise. It shouldn't take hundreds of people to make a game whose levels are basically glorified hallways.
We don't need anymore Donkey Kong, talon. We need something different now. :sly:
Livestream archive (http://www.gonintendo.com/s/249139-playtonic-reveals-project-ukulele-live-stream-archived-recording)
They definitely seem to know what they're doing.
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on March 16, 2015, 12:19:44 PM
Livestream archive (http://www.gonintendo.com/s/249139-playtonic-reveals-project-ukulele-live-stream-archived-recording)
They definitely seem to know what they're doing.
Thanks for that! Didn't know there was a recording. Will watch later! :D
I think there are several things in there you'll be pleased with. ;)
Quote from: http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2015/mar/23/playtonic-rare-collaborate-banjo-kazooie-ukulelePurchased by Microsoft in 2002, the legendary developer had been creating titles in the Kinect Sports series, but many gamers have been desperate to see Rare return to its glory days, when it produced lively platform adventures such as Donkey Kong Country, Banjo-Kazooie and Conker's Bad Fur Day. Playtonic, formed by six ex-employees of Rare, still has contact with its old employer, which is based only a few miles away.
"I still chat to them, I know what they were working on when I left last year," says Playtonic's studio head, Gavin Price, who worked for Rare for 20 years, having joined as a tester in the 1990s. "It sounds really good."
Xbox chief Phil Spencer has been teasing gamers by suggesting that Rare may be about to move away from the Kinect Sports titles onto an IP more befitting the team's skills and heritage. Last year, the exec tweeted that he had played the studio's new project, claiming it was an example of "Rare building a uniquely Rare game, as it should be." In January, Rare's head of music Robin Beanland tweeted that 2015 would be a huge year for Rare and made a reference to Banjo-Kazooie.
"I want them to do well," says Price. "They're mates and we left them behind to come and do this. I'm looking forward to what they're doing next – people will be really happy to see it." Asked whether it would be a Kinect-focused title, like the studio's other recent projects, he replied: "I can't say for sure what they are or aren't doing with that piece of hardware that Microsoft isn't supporting much anymore."
...
On the subject of old Rare, the popular story is that when Microsoft took control of the studio, it restricted the team's creativity, and insisted on a more corporate approach, killing the unique atmosphere. Playtonic denies this.
"For me, it was more about [Rare founders] Tim and Chris Stamper leaving," says Playtonic technical director Jens Restemeier, who worked at Rare handling handheld conversions of key titles. "There was no sense of progression about what the company was going to do from that point on. The story people want to hear is that Microsoft came in and destroyed everything. It wasn't like that. They gave us freedom, almost more freedom than Nintendo gave us."
Chris Sutherland, a 25-year Rare veteran and now project director at Playtonic, agrees. "When any company grows, you're going to hit problems," he explains. "At Playtonic, we don't have an upfront design document, but if you've got a company with 50 people then you're suddenly burning money away and you have to give them something to do and it's got to be something you know you'll use.
"Planning up front means you know those people are working, but the downside is you're locked into a way of working. That's fine when you're writing a sequel to something, but if you're trying to do something original and creative from the start, it's quite tricky to ask 'what's this person going to be working on in three weeks'. Well, I don't know what the game is going to be in three weeks! That's as much of an issue. You see that in any large organisation."
Playtonic is starting a Kickstarter in May to help fund Project Ukulele. It could be that the game launches within the same window as Rare's own take on those classic platforming years. Price, however, is adamant that there's no rivalry. "They're really nice clever guys, cleverer than all of us," he says. "They'll do well."
Huh.
The problem wasn't that Microsoft restricted them, it was because they didn't give the studio any direction. Nintendo would help them pick a project and work on it until completion as opposed to Microsoft who would let them futz around wasting time and money unable to decide on what to do. Rare's problem was lack of any direction or structure, which is why every game they made under Microsoft was so all over the place without any focus. It also coincides with the Stampers cashing out and going home.
PlayTonic cutting it down to a small team, and going with a single idea (read: genre) from start to finish, is exactly what Rare has needed to do since the Gamecube/Xbox days.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CBf3ovjUgAA__wY.jpg:large)
https://twitter.com/PlaytonicGames/status/583206957630255104/photo/1
:)
Nice thread title edit.
:blush:
Chris Sutherland is probably taking notes.
Lead programmer on DKC2 learning from Tropical Freeze and applying it to a new game?
:swoon:
That photo is truly a work of art. Tropical Freeze is just asdfsogood. Rumor is that Retro's upcoming game will be using a new engine. Will it be a further upgraded DKC, a new 3D Donkey Kong (would coincide well with the DK64 re-release), or something else entirely!?
Also, Playtonic basically confirmed on their website that the giant penis landmass in Banjo-Tooie was intentional, which has officially made my year.
Holy shit this thread I'm reading about Retro's new engine is the most cancerous shit. People talking about how disappointing Tropical Freeze was and complaining about Retro making Donkey Kong games. Do these people live in Bizarro World?
talon posts on other boards?
Quote from: Foggle on April 02, 2015, 02:45:46 PM
Holy shit this thread I'm reading about Retro's new engine is the most cancerous shit. People talking about how disappointing Tropical Freeze was and complaining about Retro making Donkey Kong games. Do these people live in Bizarro World?
NeoGAF?
This thread (http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=583571) has become a bit of a board meme there in the last couple years since.
Quote from: Comeau on April 02, 2015, 02:50:03 PM
Quote from: Foggle on April 02, 2015, 02:45:46 PM
Holy shit this thread I'm reading about Retro's new engine is the most cancerous shit. People talking about how disappointing Tropical Freeze was and complaining about Retro making Donkey Kong games. Do these people live in Bizarro World?
NeoGAF?
This thread (http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=583571) has become a bit of a board meme there in the last couple years since.
:whuh: So happy I got banned from there.
username?
Valentinez Alkalinella Xifax Sicidabohertz Gombigobilla Blue Stradivari Talentrent Pierre Andri Charton-Haymoss Ivanovici Baldeus George Doitzel Kaiser III
I see Avaitor is just as content with stagnancy as Spark is. :sly:
Quote from: Comeau on April 02, 2015, 02:50:03 PM
This thread (http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=583571) has become a bit of a board meme there in the last couple years since.
Absolutely disgusting. Now I understand why Spark hates Metroid fans.
He had the same username there. He was banned for being GSF.
Quote from: Foggle on April 02, 2015, 02:45:46 PM
Holy shit this thread I'm reading about Retro's new engine is the most cancerous shit. People talking about how disappointing Tropical Freeze was and complaining about Retro making Donkey Kong games. Do these people live in Bizarro World?
DKC fans have had to suffer through this with DKCR and triply so with Tropical Freeze. Worst part is that the complainers hated MP3 and seem totally unaware that the Prime team is no longer there.
Quote from: talonmalon333 on April 02, 2015, 03:24:34 PM
I see Avaitor is just as content with stagnancy as Spark is. :sly:
You need to let Resident Evil go, talon. Capcom has to move on.
That's basically true. :D
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on April 02, 2015, 03:29:39 PM
DKC fans have had to suffer through this with DKCR and triply so with Tropical Freeze. Worst part is that the complainers hated MP3 and seem totally unaware that the Prime team is no longer there.
Man, MP3 ain't even bad. My favorite posts are the people who say that they've made enough Donkey Kong games and then demand another Metroid. Like, really? :lol:
Max Payne 3 was fun from what I've played.
I don't mind if Retro makes another Metroid game. I just don't understand why they
have to when their DKC games sell better and are well liked by (actual) fans. Why don't Donkey Kong fans count?
Quote from: Foggle on April 02, 2015, 03:33:18 PM
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on April 02, 2015, 03:29:39 PM
DKC fans have had to suffer through this with DKCR and triply so with Tropical Freeze. Worst part is that the complainers hated MP3 and seem totally unaware that the Prime team is no longer there.
Man, MP3 ain't even bad. My favorite posts are the people who say that they've made enough Donkey Kong games and then demand another Metroid. Like, really? :lol:
And try telling them you want a 2D Metroid.
Total meltdown.
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on April 02, 2015, 03:37:08 PM
And try telling them you want a 2D Metroid.
Total meltdown.
:wth: (https://animationrevelation.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.pandawhale.com%2F73369-I-dont-believe-you-gif-HD-Imgu-qUVu.gif&hash=4a805593298aefbefe5ed66eaba942d8f76a4442) There's no way they are that motherfucking dumb.
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on April 02, 2015, 03:37:08 PM
I don't mind if Retro makes another Metroid game. I just don't understand why they have to when their DKC games sell better and are well liked by (actual) fans. Why don't Donkey Kong fans count?
Agreed. Returns is a damn good game and I stand by my opinion that Tropical Freeze is one of the best platformers of all time. And I say this as someone who loves Metroid to death, including Prime 1 & 2.
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on April 02, 2015, 03:29:39 PM
And try telling them you want a 2D Metroid.
Total meltdown.
So dumb. I think Retro could make an AMAZING 2D Metroid for Wii U. Just imagining it makes me long for such a title...
Also, it seems that the newest anti-Nintendo meme is LOL THEY'RE SCRAPPING THE U FOR THE NX. We don't even fucking know what the NX is or when it's coming out yet. I really should stop reading NeoGAF but if you ignore the replies it's probably the best place to find game news these days...
If Retro announced they were making a 2D Metroid I think NeoGAF would collapse in on itself in rage.
Quote from: gunswordfist on April 02, 2015, 03:40:28 PM
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on April 02, 2015, 03:37:08 PM
And try telling them you want a 2D Metroid.
Total meltdown.
:wth: (https://animationrevelation.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.pandawhale.com%2F73369-I-dont-believe-you-gif-HD-Imgu-qUVu.gif&hash=4a805593298aefbefe5ed66eaba942d8f76a4442) There's no way they are that motherfucking dumb.
I'd have to scour NeoGAF for links. Unfortunately, I can't be bothered to do that. But even the implication of wanting a classic Metroid games spawns comments like "wasted potential" and "the need to aim higher" and "3D is inherently superior" that the classic fans get drowned out pretty fast.
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on April 02, 2015, 03:29:39 PMYou need to let Resident Evil go, talon. Capcom has to move on.
I jumped ship before RE6 even came out so no need to tell me that. If anything, tell Foggle. :blush:
In all seriousness, though, I don't see how any of you could think I was disappointed by Tropical Freeze. I haven't even played it yet. Claiming that just seems like an easy way to brush off a valid opinion, doesn't it? I can agree the thread Comeau posted is pretty whiny but these are two reasonable posts that are close to what I think:
QuotePeople were expecting something else but DKCR was a good game so its not exactly bad news.
QuoteIt looks very good, but I wanted something new from Retro. #sadface
I was looking forward to seeing what Retro would do after DK. Not asking for a new Metroid game. We've gotten enough out of Prime. I wanted to see their next big step, either revitalizing another old game or creating something new.
Unfortunately, "I wanted something new from Retro" is just GAF code for "METROID PRIME 4" at this point.
But why don't you do this with Hal Laboratories, or Intelligent Systems, or NST, or Game Freak, or even other companies like Capcom? Why is it only Retro that has to move on and try new things after two games (or one apparently judging from the childish meltdowns over TF)? Why are they the only company that get put on a pedestal and told to make "new" things all the time? Why is a 2D platformer inherently less impressive than a 3D adventure game?
Why can't you just accept what they make for what it is? You have no problem with that with the above companies, why is Retro different?
Quote from: Foggle on April 02, 2015, 03:48:56 PM
Unfortunately, "I wanted something new from Retro" is just GAF code for "METROID PRIME 4" at this point.
That's why I'm not defending those guys. :sly:
I will admit, though, I would not be opposed to seeing them make a 2D Metroid game. It would be fresh enough and could potentially be awesome if they still have the people who did the aesthetics and art for Metroid Prime and Donkey Kong. It would also be nice because, in my opinion, Super Metroid is the only awesome 2D Metroid (but I'd go as far as to call it possibly the best SNES game). The original was good but a bit dated by today's standards, and Fusion had a bit too much handholding and I wasn't a fan of the bosses. Retro might have the potential to make a game worthy of Super Metroid. It also makes sense because, after DKCR, they claimed they thought long and hard about making either a Metroid or DK game. Considering the Prime series is done and most of its team are gone, maybe that Metroid game would've been 2D.
Also, didn't the Metroid fans like the Prime trilogy?
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on April 02, 2015, 03:51:31 PM
But why don't you do this with Hal Laboratories, or Intelligent Systems, or NST, or Game Freak, or even other companies like Capcom? Why is it only Retro that has to move on and try new things after two games (or one apparently judging from the childish meltdowns over TF)? Why are they the only company that get put on a pedestal and told to make "new" things all the time? Why is a 2D platformer inherently less impressive than a 3D adventure game?
Why can't you just accept what they make for what it is? You have no problem with that with the above companies, why is Retro different?
Okay, now you're just getting your feathers riled up. First of all, I had no "meltdowns" over Tropical Freeze. I don't even think I ever actually complained about it. The most I've said is "I'd like to have seen Retro branch out". I'm sure it's great and I'm sure it's a step above DKCR. It just wasn't at the top of my "What I want to see" list. And when did I say anything to suggest I think a 3D adventure game is inherently more impressive. Now you're just making things up. To be honest, you're making a much bigger deal out of this than it is. All I've ever suggested is that I was hoping to see something else from Retro and still do. That's it. Nothing more. If you thought it was more than that than you misinterpreted me or a joke post (http://animationrevelation.com/forum/index.php?topic=173.msg88820#msg88820) of mine.
Quote from: talonmalon333 on April 02, 2015, 04:19:06 PM
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on April 02, 2015, 03:51:31 PM
But why don't you do this with Hal Laboratories, or Intelligent Systems, or NST, or Game Freak, or even other companies like Capcom? Why is it only Retro that has to move on and try new things after two games (or one apparently judging from the childish meltdowns over TF)? Why are they the only company that get put on a pedestal and told to make "new" things all the time? Why is a 2D platformer inherently less impressive than a 3D adventure game?
Why can't you just accept what they make for what it is? You have no problem with that with the above companies, why is Retro different?
Okay, now you're just getting your feathers riled up. First of all, I had no "meltdowns" over Tropical Freeze. I don't even think I ever actually complained about it. The most I've said is "I'd like to have seen Retro branch out". I'm sure it's great and I'm sure it's a step above DKCR. It just wasn't at the top of my "What I want to see" list. And when did I say anything to suggest I think a 3D adventure game is inherently more impressive. Now you're just making things up. To be honest, you're making a much bigger deal out of this than it is. All I've ever suggested is that I was hoping to see something else from Retro and still do. That's it. Nothing more. If you thought it was more than that than you misinterpreted me or a joke post (http://animationrevelation.com/forum/index.php?topic=173.msg88820#msg88820) of mine.
I apologize if you took my post the wrong way. I was asking a legitimate question that was not entirely aimed at you (hence my not quoting you specifically) but aimed at people who think Retro need to do something new after after game but never ask why Hal doesn't make something non-Kirby, why NST doesn't make something other than MvDK games, why Game Freak keep making Pokemon games which sell in favor of something new, or why Capcom just doesn't stop making Street Fighter games? But Retro makes a second DKC game and, all of a sudden, that's different.
I want to understand what makes Retro different from every other video game company. Seriously. If you think I'm getting angry or whatever, I'm not. I know it doesn't show in text, but it is what it is.
In that case, sorry about the feathers comment and all that. :P
I personally can't speak for all the people in that thread you guys linked to, but the reason I personally tend to ask this a bit more from Retro is simply that I love how they brought life to 3D Metroid and I love how they revitalized Donkey Kong, so I was looking forward to seeing what game they would move onto next. That's about the extent of it. I don't get mad when they announced Tropical Freeze, though, unlike many.
But since you mention Game Freak, I do have a request of them... Pulseman. :D
Quote from: talonmalon333 on April 02, 2015, 04:19:06 PM
It would also be nice because, in my opinion, Super Metroid is the only awesome 2D Metroid
!
Zero Mission, man!
QuoteAlso, didn't the Metroid fans like the Prime trilogy?
Yeah, but a lot of people hated the third one for some reason. IMO it was basically the Metroid Fusion of the Prime series; pretty good, but a bit too straightforward and not quite as interesting.
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on April 02, 2015, 04:25:43 PM
never ask why Hal doesn't make something non-Kirby, why NST doesn't make something other than MvDK games, why Game Freak keep making Pokemon games which sell in favor of something new
I would love to see any of these studios branch out, especially NST. They're talented as hell, but they haven't made a game that's interested me since the original Mario vs. Donkey Kong. :(
Quote from: Foggle on April 02, 2015, 04:34:58 PM!
Zero Mission, man!
Sorry, forgot that one since I haven't played it yet. I definitely need to get on that as it really does look very good. I think I've heard some say it makes it impossible to go back to the original version.
Fusion is excellent. Haters step aside.
NST has the director of the classic Sonic games working there. He's certainly being wasted where he is. Game Freak also does other games ON TOP OF their Pokemon games such as the recent Harmoknight and that weird elephant game they're making, but nothing on the level of Pokemon. The thing is, I don't want them to stop making Mario Vs Donkey Kong (Okay, I want them to stop the current formula, anyway) or Pokemon simply for something else.
Besides, apparently Retro has expanded recently, so they could theoretically be able to make multiple games now.
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on April 02, 2015, 04:41:21 PM
Fusion is excellent. Haters step aside.
Agreed, but I do prefer Super, Zero Mission, and Prime 1.
Quote from: talonmalon333 on April 02, 2015, 04:37:02 PM
Sorry, forgot that one since I haven't played it yet. I definitely need to get on that as it really does look very good. I think I've heard some say it makes it impossible to go back to the original version.
It does.
Fusion's not excellent :bleh: so far.
What? I haven't gone back to beat that slime face boss yet.
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on April 02, 2015, 04:41:21 PM
Besides, apparently Retro has expanded recently, so they could theoretically be able to make multiple games now.
That would answer my problems. :P
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on April 02, 2015, 04:41:21 PM
Fusion is excellent. Haters step aside.
I did like Fusion but I do think it was a bit too linear (Super Metroid was also more linear than the original, but I thought it struck a good balance). I also wasn't a fan of some of the later boss fights (the SA-X fight was great, though). Very good game, but I preferred Super Metroid.
(https://scontent-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xtf1/v/t1.0-9/p235x350/10417576_1562404287360445_5318049028006223954_n.jpg?oh=72f7d8e09a20d8c37e27ecd3cc1eeff6&oe=559F23AE)
Yay! Definitely gonna' put some money aside for that ish.
First moving character (http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2015/04/playtonic_releases_first_animated_footage_from_banjo-kazooie_successor_project_ukulele)
Can't wait to see what the Kickstarter is going to offer.
Did Rareware change its name to Rare when Microsoft bought it?
If so, I'm going to start associating Rareware and Playtonic together now, with Rare being some other useless developer.
Meet Yooka & Laylee (http://www.ign.com/articles/2015/04/30/spiritual-successor-to-banjo-kazooie-reveals-its-lead-characters?abthid=554258d8f47666267c000013)
lol at the pun in their names. The designs look pretty nice. Them being a bat and a lizard is a pretty interesting sight.
I recommend a ban on Daxdiv for making me click an ign link. :thinkin:
So it's really a 3D platformer, huh? I love how Yooka-Laylee look more animalistic than many similar mascots. Even Donkey Kong has a tie.
At least IGN is better than Kotaku. :sly:
:shit: When did Kotaku get that bad? ...wait, they wrote that Blood Dragon is homophobic story, didn't they? :thinkin:
:joy:
Of course, we can't judge it since the game's not out yet. But let's hope this means that Rareware is truly back.
Man this game looks cool as hell.
Please don't let us down.
Music sample. We get to hear the full track tomorrow.
https://twitter.com/PlaytonicGames/status/593852057502806016
Banjo-style Grant Kirkhope! :swoon: :swoon:
That is a Rare game.
Tons of footage and interviews are being put up there now. (http://www.gonintendo.com/s/252118-yooka-laylee-video-interview-footage)
Remember, today is the kickstarter! I expect this thing to get funded in fifteen minutes.
Edited: Uh, I was close. IT WAS FUNDED IN FORTY MINUTES.
OFFICIAL kICKSTARTER! (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/playtonic/yooka-laylee-a-3d-platformer-rare-vival)
Looks like every stretch goal will be nailed.
(https://ksr-ugc.imgix.net/assets/003/712/527/b43344a18e21392e94a563b24548744b_original.png?v=1430486722&w=700&h=&fit=max&auto=format&lossless=true&s=317a89d8556780014781e736bda925ff)
So that was the first Kickstarter I've officially backed.
Given my history with the genre, I'm a bit puzzled. But then I remembered Banjo-Kazooie and Jak & Daxter and hit the backing button. Now to play the waiting game for my Wii U copy.
Oh, and they just hit the Quiz Show stretch goal.
Suh-weet. Feels good to have a pure platforming 3D game to anticipate for once.
THE MUSIC SAMPLES :light:
QuoteYes, we employ the man responsible for DK64's myriad of trinkets, but we've had a stern word.
:il_hahaha:
Quote from: Foggle on May 01, 2015, 01:26:44 PM
QuoteYes, we employ the man responsible for DK64's myriad of trinkets, but we've had a stern word.
:il_hahaha:
;D
So many stretch goals reached already!
(https://ksr-ugc.imgix.net/assets/003/715/011/dfcf866303ce2e6953afe5686d8a9fc8_original.png?v=1430513706&w=700&h=&fit=max&auto=format&lossless=true&s=274fcb274edc65421340fb63d5193b89)
Also, I just love both pieces of music released on the KS page. They sound like deleted tracks from Banjo-Kazooie and Tropical Freeze. :joy:
A local co-op buddy? Maybe they can do Tails co-op right in a 3D platformer.
It just passed the multiple languages option and is on its way to getting to the exclusive character designs from ex-Rare staffers. I'm expecting it to crack $800,000 by midnight and reach the mil in no time.
So after this, Shovel Knight, Shantae, and Mighty No. 9's massive kickstarter success, is there any doubt left that the big companies don't know what they're missing? Seems to me people are saying it pretty loud and clear. Make with the platformers.
By the way, I really hope some of the multiplayer modes are based on the ones from Conker, too. Those multiplayer modes were
so good.
Quote from: Foggle on May 01, 2015, 01:26:44 PM
QuoteYes, we employ the man responsible for DK64's myriad of trinkets, but we've had a stern word.
:il_hahaha:
Biggest worry eased.
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on May 01, 2015, 06:37:10 PM
It just passed the multiple languages option and is on its way to getting to the exclusive character designs from ex-Rare staffers. I'm expecting it to crack $800,000 by midnight and reach the mil in no time.
They're already at 1,232,717 USD and have now passed the exclusive character designs stretch goal. ;D
QuoteSo after this, Shovel Knight, Shantae, and Mighty No. 9's massive kickstarter success, is there any doubt left that the big companies don't know what they're missing? Seems to me people are saying it pretty loud and clear. Make with the platformers.
Hat In Time as well! There's also all the successful cRPGs like Pillars of Eternity and Torment. Looks like people
really want those awesome late 90's game genres back.
QuoteBy the way, I really hope some of the multiplayer modes are based on the ones from Conker, too. Those multiplayer modes were so good.
I'm expecting multiplayer stuff from Tooie/DK64/BFD to return, with a few all-new modes as well!
It's now over £801,277. And it still hasn't been 24 hours yet.
I can't believe how fast this is going. It'll hit a million pounds within 48 hours.
I think they need more stretch goals!
I do think they should be careful with how many stretch goals they add, though, as well as how "big" they make them. Jumping the gun definitely had a negative impact on Mighty No. 9 and a few other projects.
After a certain point, I'd rather they just save the rest of the collected money for their next game's budget.
Kickstarter needs to put some life in beat em ups next.
Quote from: Foggle on May 01, 2015, 08:49:58 PM
So after this, Shovel Knight, Shantae, and Mighty No. 9's massive kickstarter success, is there any doubt left that the big companies don't know what they're missing? Seems to me people are saying it pretty loud and clear. Make with the platformers.
Hat In Time as well! There's also all the successful cRPGs like Pillars of Eternity and Torment. Looks like people
really want those awesome late 90's game genres back.
[/quote]Still need to watch gameplay footage on Hat in Time.
I think a beat em up would be harder to sell since they're pretty inexpensive to make and probably wouldn't need a Kickstarter. Well there was that RCR: Underground one, but that game looked so awful and hipsterrific and barely got funded without even making a stretch goal.
If Technos (or Million, or whatever they go by now) went on there asking for funding for a game actually called Double Dragon IV, I would be first in line, though.
All Banjo fans must watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gvk1ZRs9IUM
I cried.
Cool beans. If I hear good word of mouth after it comes out, I'll pick up a PS4 version of the game.
Quote from: Foggle on May 01, 2015, 09:03:02 PM
I do think they should be careful with how many stretch goals they add, though, as well as how "big" they make them. Jumping the gun definitely had a negative impact on Mighty No. 9 and a few other projects.
After a certain point, I'd rather they just save the rest of the collected money for their next game's budget.
We're talking about ex-Rare guys, so you might be right! Add more and more and we might get:
QuoteFive different kinds of pages per minigame and character and an ice key to unlock the orange coins for bonus hidden minigames! ~ £2,000,000
Rare always had a problem with adding more and more with every sequel instead of just making a better game.
Stop 'n' Swop 3.0! 100% the game on every possible platform, then plug in an Atari 2600 and use your combined save data fragments to play an exclusive demake of Battletoads!
And it has just hit the second to last stretch goal. Only one left-- the one to get it on every system Day One.
Oh, and related:
(https://animationrevelation.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FZHM6OH9.jpg&hash=07fc1f7849ff648228ff01049d3f937bbd0ed9a3)
Thank you for that, Microsoft.
They're not gonna make it to their Fall 2016 deadline now that the only stretch goal left is the simultaneous day 1 release on all platforms.
But fuck it, I've been waiting years for an N64 styled platformer and I'll gladly let the old Rareware guys take their time to put out what should be a magnum opus for them.
So I'm playing the Xbox 360 version of Banjo-Tooie and it just feels... wrong to me. The frame rate is vastly improved and the colors are much sharper, but something about the other, relatively minor changes really bugs me. Like, the saving pop up every time you enter a new area, the skip button in the corner during cutscenes, the way the ice key works, making the interact button B instead of X (and having a prompt to talk to NPCs), the removed Nintendo stuff... I dunno. None of it is especially egregious, but it really hurts the game for me for some reason. And I'm still sour over how they changed the Banjo-Tooie advertising text at the end of B-K into Nuts & Bolts promotion.
They actually removed Nintendo stuff? I remember them having a freaking N64 at the start menu.
Quote from: gunswordfist on May 02, 2015, 01:06:52 AM
They actually removed Nintendo stuff? I remember them having a freaking N64 at the start menu.
That's actually still there! There are a few other things missing, though. Like I said, it's not really a big deal, it's just that this was my favorite game when I was 8, so any dumb changes at all make me a bit sad. :D
Understood. :lol:
The style of this game, and the characters we've seen, fits so well right alongside Donkey Kong, Banjo, and the rest of the Rare crew.
talon stays up late to state the obvious.
The 360 versions are actually really good, though. I have some problems with them (WHY CAN I ONLY COLLECT THE STOP N SWOP STUFF ONCE), but the saving music notes in Kazooie and the huge frame rate boost in Tooie make them the definitive versions, for me.
I have no idea what this Stop N Swop is but :D
The 360 version of Banjo Kazooie is the one that really got me into the game. Just a well put together port.
Quote from: gunswordfist on May 02, 2015, 01:42:56 AM
I have no idea what this Stop N Swop is but :D
They're items you collect in B-K that transfer over into B-T, and then in B-T that transfer over into N&B. Unfortunately, despite the fact that some of them are acquired via fun platforming challenges, you can only collect them once... ever. Even if you delete your save file. It's dumb.
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on May 02, 2015, 01:45:11 AM
The 360 version of Banjo Kazooie is the one that really got me into the game. Just a well put together port.
The 360 port is magical. It transforms Rusty Bucket Bay and Click Clock Wood from tedious, survival horror-esque slogs into extremely fun platforming worlds. :)
Some of the changes in Tooie are kind of questionable, though. C'mon, at least give us a way to turn off the button prompts! That shit don't belong in no N64 game.
I assumed Stop N Swop was some bad shit from the N64 days based off of that Yooka-Laylee stretch goal joke you made. :sweat:
It's a planned feature that was originally cut and then re-enabled in the 360 ports. Basically, you would collect items in Banjo-Kazooie, then remove the cartridge and insert Banjo-Tooie to carry over your save file. This was accomplished using an exploit in the way the hardware loaded games, but when Nintendo released a newer version of the console before B-T's release, their plan was rendered impossible.
No one knows what the SNS stuff was originally supposed to do, except for the ice key, which lets you turn Kazooie into a dragon. When Stop N Swop was removed, they put the ice key in a hidden alcove near the beginning of the game so that it would still be unlockable. The new version of SNS is extremely disappointing and only gets you stuff like gamer pics and car parts for Nuts & Bolts (oh boy!). I enjoyed collecting the ice key on each playthrough of Tooie (for some reason), so I was a little let down when I discovered that nothing particularly worthwhile was left in its place, and I can now freely acquire dragon Kazooie every time.
I played the game a lot as a kid, but last summer was the first time I actually beat Banjo-Kazooie. My friend and I would take turns in the levels. I'm still shocked that I'm the one who beat Grunty. And then I downloaded Tooie and got about halfway through. As I said, though, if this is of the same quality or platforming and collecting, I'm in. I love that their name even has the same font as Banjo-Kazooie, as if it was still in the same world, but with two completely different characters.
Some of those Kickstarter goals are tempting, as I'm a sucker for soundtrack CDs, but I'm just not willing to put the money down. Waiting until the game itself is out is good enough for me. I have plenty of backlog to work through until then.
(https://ksr-ugc.imgix.net/assets/003/717/706/fae4ca2792034f86b17b1aefd18ef943_original.png?v=1430572006&w=700&h=&fit=max&auto=format&lossless=true&s=f1e926590e22d4480ecfb08f02e9be1e)
Wait, did they actually make fun of DK64?
They lovingly poke fun at it a lot. I think the Playtonic guys like the game but understand why a lot of people hate it. The GK Rap is going to be amazing.
It's certainly easier to love something when its your creation. :P
Quote from: talonmalon333 on May 02, 2015, 01:21:55 PM
It's certainly easier to love something when its your creation. :P
I think the game is pretty widely liked, actually. Of course, much like Conker's Bad Fur Day, I can only assume this is because only a few of its fans have played it within the past 10 years...
Quote from: Foggle on May 02, 2015, 07:31:11 PM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on May 02, 2015, 01:21:55 PM
It's certainly easier to love something when its your creation. :P
I think the game is pretty widely liked, actually. Of course, much like Conker's Bad Fur Day, I can only assume this is because only a few of its fans have played it within the past 10 years...
It was pretty well received upon release, but I've seen a lot of fans turn on it over the years.
Sounds like a good thread topic.
(https://ksr-ugc.imgix.net/assets/003/722/107/e6bbdeb0b26b1e71852d48096e145f68_original.png?v=1430664325&w=700&h=&fit=max&auto=format&lossless=true&s=309c3f8f06100cb4898b7f1b2f60c467)
Looks like they learned from other Kickstarters and avoided bloat by making this the last stretch goal. Smart idea, as everything past the million goal should not really affect development much at all.
I wonder why the Kickstarter ends right before E3. There's gotta be a reason it was timed like that.
Giving Grant Kirkhope access to as many xylophones, trumpets and trombones as he wants.
I think my body is ready for this.
Remember that Tropical Freeze used a full orchestra... if we could get another soundtrack like that, with added Grant Kirkhope music... :swoon:
I hope it's not controversial to say that of the two new tracks, I liked David Wise's more.
I liked Grant Kirkhope's tune, but it isn't quite on the level of Spiral Mountain, Click Clock Woods, or Bubblegloop Swamp when it comes to catchy-ness. Not to say it's bad, but it's more of an ambient tune.
If he can deliver tunes like those with a full orchestra? Wow.
David Wise might be my favorite video game composer after Koji Kondo and Mahito Yokota.
If it's coming from you, it is not controversial, it's expected. ;)
Quote from: talonmalon333 on May 04, 2015, 03:38:07 PM
David Wise might be my favorite video game composer after Koji Kondo and Mahito Yokota.
Don't recognize the names. :sweat:
Koji Kondo is the Mario guy. Mahito Yokota is one of the composer's at Nintendo EAD.
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on May 04, 2015, 03:22:35 PM
I hope it's not controversial to say that of the two new tracks, I liked David Wise's more.
I also prefer David Wise's song, but Kirkhope's is more nostalgic and therefore equal in my eyes!
QuoteI liked Grant Kirkhope's tune, but it isn't quite on the level of Spiral Mountain, Click Clock Woods, or Bubblegloop Swamp when it comes to catchy-ness. Not to say it's bad, but it's more of an ambient tune.
I think my top 5 Kirkhope tunes would have to be Treasure Trove Cove, Freezeezy Peak, Rusty Bucket Bay, Mayahem Temple, and Witchyworld. That said, much like Wise, his work is almost always perfect.
Yuzo Koshiro, Michiru Yamane and David Wise (in that order) are my favorites.
Quote from: Foggle on May 04, 2015, 04:40:09 PM
I also prefer David Wise's song, but Kirkhope's is more nostalgic and therefore equal in my eyes!
More nostalgic than David Wise?
Quote from: talonmalon333 on May 04, 2015, 06:00:48 PM
Quote from: Foggle on May 04, 2015, 04:40:09 PM
I also prefer David Wise's song, but Kirkhope's is more nostalgic and therefore equal in my eyes!
More nostalgic than David Wise?
He grew up with an N64, not a SNES.
When did you first play DKC, Foggle?
I had Donkey Kong Country on the GBC as a kid, and I knew someone who owned the SNES version, so I actually grew up with both composers. :D When I say that Kirkhope's song is more nostalgic than Wise's... well, just listen to them. Grant's track sounds like it could have been lifted directly from Banjo-Tooie, while David's sounds more like something he'd have made for Tropical Freeze than the original DKC trilogy.
Kirkhope's style is indeed a bit more "distinct". His music in Banjo and DK64, for example, is very similar and, if I didn't know any better, I could've easily mixed up what came from each game.
I disagree. His work on DK64 sounds way different from his work on Banjo for the most part.
Grant Kirkhope also did GoldenEye, which is a fantastic soundtrack, and David Wise did all the Battletoads games, which are very different from his DK style.
But I usually see Kirkhope as having the more bouncy and folksy tunes and Wise as having the more introspective and chill tunes. They compliment each other well which is why it's nice to see them both working on this game.
I still think the best tune Grant Kirkhope ever wrote was Spiral Mountain, though. I hope he can top it with this game.
When I was young, I'd always play one thinking "this music sounds like DK64" or vice versa "this music sounds like Banjo". :P
If nothing else, the music from DK64's forest level sounds like it could have been taken directly from Banjo.
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on May 04, 2015, 11:17:52 PM
But I usually see Kirkhope as having the more bouncy and folksy tunes and Wise as having the more introspective and chill tunes. They compliment each other well which is why it's nice to see them both working on this game.
I agree; I'm just shocked it took so long for them to make a game with both!
Quote from: talonmalon333 on May 04, 2015, 11:18:52 PM
When I was young, I'd always play one thinking "this music sounds like DK64" or vice versa "this music sounds like Banjo". :P
Well, some of the songs are similar, but the DK64 OST is a lot more chilled out and atmospheric. It doesn't really sound like David Wise, but it has a distinct DKC-esque flavor to it that Banjo lacks.
QuoteIf nothing else, the music from DK64's forest level sounds like it could have been taken directly from Banjo.
It only makes since, since that entire level
was taken directly from Banjo. ;)
Battletoads is why I love Wise.
Also, Goldeneye has some incredible music. Probably top 10 in the genre.
He also composed the amazing Perfect Dark soundtrack. The man is quite talented.
Don't forget the Yaiba: Ninja Gaiden Z soundtrack! :happytime:
He actually co-penned much of the GoldenEye soundtrack with Graeme Norgate who left to form Free Radical and did the Timesplitters and Second Sight soundtracks. Outside of like two tracks, Perfect Dark was almost entirely him.
Not sure why there are so many good VG composers out there not working. Such a waste of talent.
You know, I was just joking in my previous post, but I'm listening to it right now and the Yaiba OST is actually amazing... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aLxjbwZOE-A
Why wouldn't it be amazing? It's Grant Kirkhope.
Yes, but it's also Ninja Gaiden Z!
I love Perfect Dark's soundtrack as well! I had the music set to random on multiplayer so I could listen to any theme in the game as I find new weapons to enjoy. ;D
The awful gameplay tends to completely distract you from the music in Yaiba. You might not be able to tell by watching a video, but it really is that abysmally bad.
Speaking of Ninja Gaiden, did the modern games ever have a remix of Act 1 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRpcMlFYjZg) from the NES game? That's kind of like the definitive Ninja Gaiden tune to me. If Ryu Hayabusa was ever in Smash, I'd pick that to be his theme.
Quote(https://ksr-ugc.imgix.net/assets/003/771/721/c0d548f3d47f0d9b2df6f53850237c9a_original.png?v=1431371919&w=700&h=&fit=max&auto=format&lossless=true&s=2335cbb131b8db9d84c8542631c936c1)
"ALRIGHT GEEZERSSS... COME TO LEARN FROM THE BESSST?"
As the Yooka-Laylee Kickstarter campaign ascends to even more spectacular heights, it's high time we introduced you to the game's first support character: flash, wheeler dealing serpent, Trowzer!
Trowzer is a business-snake whose career never took off. Not that he knows it – the smug, serpent salesman thinks he's the bee's knees (not that he has knees), and for a little dosh he'll teach you some of the slick moves he picked up on the high-stakes sales floor.
Yooka-Laylee's creative lead, Gavin Price explains: "Trowzer thinks of himself as the best salesman ever, but with his downbeat appearance and 1980's mobile phone, life never took off for him.
"He'll take your money and count it (he's an Adder...) and because he knows best he'll even demonstrate the moves you just bought for you to replicate... if you can follow his jiggling."
Character artist extraordinaire, Mr. Steve Mayles described the design process behind his latest creation: "I didn't want him to be a snake in the traditional sense, and when Gav suggested he should have shorts on (do I have to add shorts to all of my characters?!), a great idea for this was his body could curl back up through the other leg hole. So he'll move with a certain springiness, which will be fun to animate."
This is the most Rare character ever.
Greatest NPC design of all time. :joy:
Just about £1000 to go before Orchestral music is reached. And there's still a month left to go!
This one took a while. I wonder if people read "orchestral music" and worry that the classic Banjo/DKC sound will get replaced by some disposable CoD ish. I know I certainly did until I found out that Tropical Freeze and Nuts & Bolts had full orchestras for the music.
It depends, I guess. I would just hope they go with what works with each theme. Stickerbrush Symphony, for instance, works so well because it's electronic. Not to mention other tracks like Frozen Fruits or Alpine Incline.
But there are some really good tracks like Bubblegloop Swamp, Freezeezy Peak, and Click Clock Woods, that work really good in orchestral style. On the other hand, that Banjo orchestral album didn't always hit the mark for me. Spiral Mountain is not as good without a banjo playing the main theme and they changed it for no real reason.
I'm sure they'll make the right choice with each song; I doubt every track will end up being orchestral. Grant Kirkhope even said as much on Twitter!
Also,
- Trowzer
- Snake
- Trouser Snake
RAREWARE IS BACK BABY
As Playtonic said:
QuoteIt was Trowzer and his shorts that pushed it over the edge, for sure.
Had to be.
Now we play the waiting game.
Post-release DLC a stretch goal. (http://www.gonintendo.com/stories/233071-yooka-laylee-gets-new-stretch-goal-first-post-release-dlc-free-f)
QuoteFrom the start of the campaign we also pledged to do best by your amazing support by only setting stretch goals that would improve the game, without negatively affecting core development.
Our next stretch goal, if reached, will be used only to further improve and polish Yooka-Laylee, and give something back for your amazing support. Namely, we'll release our first post-release DLC pack free of charge for all backers.
When – and only when – we've finished and shipped the full version of Yooka-Laylee, we'll start work on additional content that will be distributed to backers free of charge for their platform of choice. And again, all additional funding will of course go towards improving and polishing the game.
So basically the money we'll be used for polish and the backers will get free DLC later on. Fine with me.
(https://ksr-ugc.imgix.net/assets/003/773/404/1f0af08e301dce8a38beaa08ab8f2a11_original.png?v=1431386246&w=700&h=&fit=max&auto=format&lossless=true&s=0218034883554e3a9ac04147a68f04c3)
That character design is amazing! :worship:
Six Musts For a Perfect Platformer! (http://gamasutra.com/view/news/243310/6_musts_for_a_perfect_platformer_from_the_YookaLaylee_team.php)
Playtonic talks Yooka Laylee, Banjo Kazooie, and Donkey Kong 64 with Beta 64. (http://www.gonintendo.com/stories/233443-playtonic-talks-yooka-laylee-banjo-kazooie-and-donkey-kong-64)
It's pretty entertaining to hear the stories behind some of their processes.
I still want a Yooka Laylee amiibo line.
Sue me.
GameXplain interview. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CCIJUv2VRWA)
Looks like their idea for the world design is to be able to "100%" them the first time through but as you go through the game you can open up the worlds more and go back to them with new skills and collect more if you want to. From their wording it seems you might fight a different final boss depending on if you did the bare minimum or not.
Sounds really cool. I've been wanting that from a collectathon for years.
http://www.gonintendo.com/stories/233731-yooka-laylee-new-character-animation-clip (http://www.gonintendo.com/stories/233731-yooka-laylee-new-character-animation-clip)
I love good idle animation. :) Well, unless the characters kills themselves.
Quote from: gunswordfist on May 19, 2015, 03:53:51 PMWell, unless the characters kills themselves.
That Sonic CD idle animation. :D
I still need to actually watch that. I can't just sit still in a Sonic game for 3 minutes, now. Especially after growing up on Sonic 1 where he lost his shit after seconds of stopping. :D
If they can reach a deal with the companies, I think a clever idea for that post-game DLC they're planning would be DLC characters depending on the version of the game you've purchased.
Like Banjo-Kazooie for the XBone, Donkey Kong and Diddy for the Wii U, and Ratchet & Clank for the PS4. I'm not sure who they'd pick for the Steam version, but I'm sure they'd think of something.
Even though this has a less than zero chance of happening, wouldn't it be cool?
That's a great idea!
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on May 21, 2015, 01:15:11 PM
I'm not sure who they'd pick for the Steam version, but I'm sure they'd think of something.
Scout and Wheatley perhaps.
I have no clue who those two are.
New character reveal!
(https://ksr-ugc.imgix.net/assets/003/883/714/88261dcaeed2ce7535c161f906992371_original.jpg?v=1432914480&w=639&h=&fit=max&auto=format&q=92&s=44587a2aa7b968286a2d7039d5c5fb6d)
QuoteIn their physical days these articulate phantoms were the scribes behind Yooka-Laylee's mysterious book worlds. However, following their suspicious demise the Ghost Writers' unsettled souls are now cursed to endlessly wander their creations in search of spectre salvation. Free their spirits for a special reward...
Yooka-Laylee's creative lead, Gavin Price explains: "The Ghost Writers haunting the book worlds will add a fun twist to collecting. There are a variety of different types hidden in every world, each with their own unique requirement for being caught.
"Mix that with the different areas in which you'll find them, and hopefully they'll result in a fresh challenge with every encounter. They're like a living (un-living?) collectible."
Character artist at large, Mr. Steve(n) Mayles described the design process behind his band of ghouls: "As these characters aren't based on any particular creature, it was good fun to go a bit crazy with them. And we are crazy guys at Playtonic Towers...never a dull moment, etc.
"The ghost was originally going to be one character, but I sketched so many thumbnails (50+) it sparked the idea of having 5 separate ghosts with different abilities."
The Ghost Writers are the third character reveal to date for Yooka-Laylee, following Trowzer and our heroes themselves. There are many more waiting in the wings...
With Paypal they're closing in on £1,750,000 but we still need a bit of a bump to reach that last stretch goal and get free post-release DLC.
Needless to say, those ghosts look pretty cool.
https://soundcloud.com/playtonic/glacier-world-working-title-work-in-progress (https://soundcloud.com/playtonic/glacier-world-working-title-work-in-progress)
Less than a week to go and 150,000 pounds to go before the final stretch goal is hit! Here's hoping they make it!
Classic Kirkhope.
I hope they hit that goal too! Sadly, I ran out of money and had to withdraw my backing. :'(
(https://animationrevelation.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FjQ0QMYYl.jpg&hash=d387e0984f504b31c2561de9a20b12d204f6d000)
(https://animationrevelation.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FNT9UaCOl.jpg&hash=e8cb12f320d1ad7bc53ed441e7b8de5aa9363d7e)
(https://animationrevelation.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FXaL4SyMl.jpg&hash=85d35a02af0680ae9030e66812cdd7b53a7a6f68)
Only 100,000 pounds to go!
I love the first image. I wonder if that's how level portals will look like or even better, jump into the book for level select.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CHjpOrMVEAAAEb6.jpg)
Not quite at 3 mil in pounds, but there's still more than a day left!
Go Playtonic!
Might as well cross-post the E3 news that Foggle posted.
Quote from: Foggle on June 15, 2015, 12:47:32 PMRareware just announced a cooperative pirate game with cartoon graphics. It looks fucking amazing. There's also a compilation coming of every single game they've ever made that isn't owned by Nintendo, including the original version of Bad Fur Day.
So there was no Banjo 3. I guess that explains why Playtonic struck out to make Yooka Laylee. It wouldn't have otherwise made sense if Rare were making a Banjo game for them to leave then.
Well, time to wait and see how this turns out.
By the way, Yooka Laylee is really close to hitting the final stretch goal. I'd say it's a lock now.
It has unofficially hit the goal. We just need Playtonic to confirm, though apparently they have some sort of announcement at E3 tomorrow? I'm not sure what that is.
:joy:
Admittedly, Sea of Thieves looks killer (I loved Assassin's Creed IV, so I'm totally down for pirate stuff), and with all the news, an X-Bone is looking much moire attractive now than it used to.
It certainly is. I can't wait to get one.
Funded. :)
I saw it on twitter. I hope we get more multiplatform 3D platformers
Five minutes of Alpha Build footage (https://youtu.be/ePHRb4zBqpw)
Can't wait for them to really dive into this.
That sign's dialogue. (https://youtu.be/329VH0WW4_k)
I miss Rare's humor. :D
Shots fired at N&B?
:lol:
New interview! (http://www.gonintendo.com/stories/236646-yooka-laylee-developer-interview-w-grant-kirkhope-amp-andy-rob)
Clever fan animation. (http://www.gonintendo.com/stories/238536-fan-art-yooka-laylee-animation)
That ending perfectly explains why we never got a Banjo Threeie!
*snickers*
I got my e-mail from Playtonic. I'm apparently the 18,645th backer. Crazy.
They also asked what my favorite color was which must have something to do with the game. I chose orange because It is my favorite. Hope it leads to something cool.
Crash joins Yooka Laylee.
Playtonic and Nintendo UK are having a Super Mario Maker stream tomorrow. (http://gonintendo.com/stories/241820-nintendo-uk-playtonic-team-up-for-super-mario-maker-live-stream)
Apparently they made some levels and are going to show them off. Should be interesting.
Gaming Wildlife tackles Rare (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p1U2wmIksGs)
New character: Rextro SixtyFourus
(https://animationrevelation.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Foyster.ignimgs.com%2Fwordpress%2Fstg.ign.com%2F2015%2F11%2FRex_2-720x399.jpg&hash=cb9775ac3fb6144a0b0f437b4a5a6e672edf5f69)
We all knew it was coming.
So, uh... apparently Microsoft would be okay with Rare Replay releasing for Wii U?
(https://animationrevelation.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fabload.de%2Fimg%2Fmicroosftrarenintendpgopdr.jpg&hash=89786d52df801da3d6facf9e85c21d881092698b)
That would be so damn cool. Especially if they included the Nintendo-owned games as well.
That is really cool. Now can Nintendo help release the GC version of Soul Calibur II on 360? :SHOCK:
Quote from: Foggle on December 12, 2015, 03:19:07 AM
So, uh... apparently Microsoft would be okay with Rare Replay releasing for Wii U?
(https://animationrevelation.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fabload.de%2Fimg%2Fmicroosftrarenintendpgopdr.jpg&hash=89786d52df801da3d6facf9e85c21d881092698b)
That would be so damn cool. Especially if they included the Nintendo-owned games as well.
lol no. (http://gonintendo.com/stories/248702-rare-says-rare-replay-is-exclusive-to-xbox-one)
Shame.
A cool look at Project Dream, the game that became Banjo Kazooie. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w72kj20YNA0)
New update! (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/playtonic/yooka-laylee-a-3d-platformer-rare-vival/posts/1587971?ref=backer_project_update)
(https://ksr-ugc.imgix.net/assets/012/546/189/fc179f34ade613be20beb5ff4591c580_original.jpg?w=639&fit=max&v=1464364192&auto=format&q=92&s=415e618416ec5b074cdfa7f30efee60d)
That's such a Rare design.
I love it! :joy:
haha, what am I even looking at? I love these character designs.
(https://animationrevelation.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FrngpmcW.jpg&hash=e284eb6bd21ae9f9af9cdb4279edcb4fd4613e3f)
This is peak Rareware right here.
E3 trailer! (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e1gxLvbX3Ow)
It's officially coming out Q1 2017.
Also, the end of that trailer! :D
2017. :'(
It looks so amazing... I need it now!
Interview! (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A99-IYExCHA)
There's a bit of new footage in there too.
200 Feathers per level (once the level is fully unlocked) and 25 Pages per level mean there's going to be a lot to find.
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on June 06, 2016, 08:03:34 PM
200 Feathers per level (once the level is fully unlocked) and 25 Pages per level mean there's going to be a lot to find.
So, like DK64 with one of the collectibles scaled down and no tedious character-switching? Sounds amazing. In the Edge article, they mentioned that the unexpanded levels are designed like the original Banjo-Kazooie and the expanded ones (which are optional) are closer to Banjo-Tooie. As a lover of both games who understands why a lot of people dislike the sequel, that seems perfect to me.
Will watch the interview in a bit. I'm so fucking excited for this game. I didn't realize how much I needed another Rareware collectathon in my life until now. This may have surpassed Nier and Persona 5 on my most-anticipated list. I regret my moody teenage years where I disliked this type of game so much.
The Toybox has been released today. I expect new videos, post-haste.
Today brings good news and bad news. The good news is that the release date has been revealed - April 11th - and you can now pre-order retail versions for both the PS4 and Xbone. The bad news is that the Wii U version has been cancelled, as Playtonic was unable to successfully port the game to the console. :( They will be replacing this with a Switch version, at least, but no release date is announced yet.
Soundtrack samples. (https://soundcloud.com/laced-records)
This is pretty incredible, honestly.
After coming out recently as a raving racist lunatic, Playtonic has removed JonTron's voice acting from Yooka-Laylee. (http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2017-03-23-playtonic-removes-controversial-youtuber-jontron-from-yooka-laylee)
Best news in this thread.
No it isn't. JonTron isn't racist. He got smeared for not towing the SJW values line. Same crap as with PewDiePie.
EDIT: Here are his words about the smear against him:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yVcz5cgUbbA
:-X
Here's another reason JonTron's role getting shuttered isn't great news, Playtonic has been flooded with refund requests over removing him from people tired of these witchhunts.
http://www.craveonline.com/entertainment/1236595-playtonic-flooded-yooka-laylee-refund-requests-jontrons-removal#/slide/1
While I understand this is a difficult situation, Jontron's remarks a few weeks ago like "Wealthy blacks commit more crime than poor whites" (https://youtu.be/QWT5UHRYxl4) are not something that a game studio aimed at all ages probably wishes to be associated with.
Well, Jim Sterling gave it a 2/10. Holy shit. Other reviews seem to be middling. Not what I was hoping to see. Still want to try it out though.
GameXplain (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NYNfB3ZYtJc) said the technical issues on the XBone version are atrocious.
How it was allowed to be released in this state is beyond me. I'm not the biggest fan of JonTron's removal, but this janky quality is just incompetent.
I hope we don't have another Mighty No. 9 here.
Sorry, already seeing some places out there as such. Metacritic has it at 67. That's not good.
Hate to say it, but I knew this was going to be the case when they dumped JonTron. The way that post from Playtonic about the controversy made it obvious they were infested with SJWs and nine times out of ten they don't make anything worthwhile.
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on April 04, 2017, 02:59:17 PM
GameXplain (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NYNfB3ZYtJc) said the technical issues on the XBone version are atrocious.
How it was allowed to be released in this state is beyond me. I'm not the biggest fan of JonTron's removal, but this janky quality is just incompetent.
I hope we don't have another Mighty No. 9 here.
Why the fuck not, after his racist rant?
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on April 04, 2017, 02:59:17 PM
GameXplain (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NYNfB3ZYtJc) said the technical issues on the XBone version are atrocious.
How it was allowed to be released in this state is beyond me. I'm not the biggest fan of JonTron's removal, but this janky quality is just incompetent.
I hope we don't have another Mighty No. 9 here.
The only positives I've been hearing is that the PC version is running decently. Kinda makes me glad I decided to use my pledge to get the PC version of the game after the Wii U version was canceled. The bigger kick in the teeth was that I heard that they tried to make the Wii U version the best one around and even went with the Unity engine so the Wii U version wouldn't suffer. Oops! :awesome:
I don't think this is comparable to Mighty No. 9 at all. The Xbox version does look bad, but the footage I've seen from the PS4 version seems just fine and the PC version is confirmed to run at 60 FPS. The game itself looks exactly like Banjo-Tooie, which I know may not appeal to a lot of people who aren't me, but MN9's design was outright bad even compared to, say, Mega Man 8. Not to mention that Jim's review is a major outlier, with a fair amount of critics saying that anyone who loved these kinds of game as a kid will also love this one; the majority of the negative/middling reviews are unhappy that it feels too much like a N64 game and not enough like a modern game. The Kickstarter backers are genuinely getting what they paid for here... unless they bought the game because of JonTron, but it absolutely makes sense why they removed him since they're trying to uphold the image of a family-friendly classic-style games-oriented company.
Basically, the middling reviews make sense and aren't an indicator of the game being bad - this is literally Banjo-Threeie, designed as if it was released a couple years after Tooie. Some people may think that kind of thing doesn't work in 2017, or they might not like the more excessive nature of B-T, and I think those are respectable opinions. On the other hand, people like me who have been waiting for exactly this since they were 8 years old, will probably be satisfied if not overjoyed.
Quote from: Peanutbutter on April 04, 2017, 03:26:31 PM
The way that post from Playtonic about the controversy made it obvious they were infested with SJWs and nine times out of ten they don't make anything worthwhile.
Most artists can be considered SJWs - insofar as it refers to left-wingers who don't like being associated with people who make statements similar to JonTron's - so this statement isn't really true. Off the top of my head, Nier Automata, Luke Cage, and Get Out are all critically acclaimed and commercially successful pieces of modern art where the creators would have reacted exactly the same way Playtonic did.
Anyway, a lot of my favorite games are sitting somewhere between 60 and 70 on Metacritic (e.g. almost anything by Grasshopper or Yoko Taro), so I don't think a 67 MC score is particularly bad at all.
Quote from: Daxdiv on April 05, 2017, 09:44:48 AM
The bigger kick in the teeth was that I heard that they tried to make the Wii U version the best one around and even went with the Unity engine so the Wii U version wouldn't suffer. Oops! :awesome:
Yeah, they would have gone with UE4 if they hadn't been planning on making a Wii U version. Unity sucks so hard for getting good framerates, especially on consoles.
Quote from: gunswordfist on April 04, 2017, 11:27:05 PM
Why the fuck not, after his racist rant?
Yeah, I think pretty much any company would have done the same, even 10 or 20 years ago. JonTron may not actually be a racist, and I think there's a good chance he actually has no idea why what he said was horrible, but no family-oriented company releasing their first game would ever want to be associated with those kind of statements.
PlayTonic can do whatever they want. It's their game.
My worry has nothing to do with the base game. It has to do with optimization. Watching that gameplay footage was really worrying. There's no reason this game should chug along like that and have performance issues. I backed it, so I guess I'll be playing it regardless, but I won't be happy if they don't address and fix these problems. That they thought it was okay to put it out in that sort of state is a bit insulting to console owners. Especially considering people backed them on Kickstarter for it.
Well, hopefully the PS4 version will run okay. Obviously they shouldn't release the game in a state like that, but after playing a few other 3D Unity games on console, I wouldn't be surprised if that's the absolute best they can do. I've played the Toybox on both PC and PS4 - the PC version ran beautifully and the PS4 version ran like, well, an N64 game. It was perfectly playable and fun for me despite some definite issues, and I'll be getting it on PS4 since Unity causes my PC to make horrifying sounds. If it's unplayable and frustrating then I'm sure you'll see me in here complaining next week, but keep in mind that I had no issue enjoying The Evil Within on PS3 so maybe that kind of thing just doesn't bother me much. ;)
It honestly saddens me that even with the power of current-gen hardware, there are relatively few games (not including remasters) that can manage to run at a consistent 60 FPS. I feel like that should have pretty much been the mandatory bare minimum by last gen.
Quote from: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on April 05, 2017, 01:19:19 PM
It honestly saddens me that even with the power of current-gen hardware, there are relatively few games (not including remasters) that can manage to run at a consistent 60 FPS. I feel like that should have pretty much been the mandatory bare minimum by last gen.
It's pretty disappointing, yeah. I'm not trying to shift the blame off Playtonic, but honestly, the Unity engine is just not very good for performance at all. I understand why people use it - it's extremely easy to make games with, supposedly - but you need REALLY good hardware to make it run above 30 FPS. Like I was playing the PS4 version of Grow Home and that game chugs on the fucking main menu. Even much more basic games like Yandere Simulator can have major trouble running well on a good system. It's just not a great engine from what I can tell, so I hope Tooka-Laylee or whatever else Playtonic makes next will use UE4 or something. I can cut them some slack with the consoles ports of Y-L, but if they ever become completely unplayable and/or the team doesn't learn from this for their next game, then there's definitely going to be problems.
Looks like the day one patch will be including various performance and camera fixes! http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-04-05-yooka-laylee-xbox-one-ps4-and-pc-patch-targets-camera-issues-and-performance
It's a start, and already way more than the MN9 devs ever did. Still, it's pretty sad that 80% of games these days almost require a day one patch to be fully playable and fun. :-\
Random question: Did the MN9 devs ever even release the 3DS and Vita versions that they promised?
It's good to hear that Playtonic seems to be addressing the technical issues. I avoid backing Kickstarter games out of caution, but I was planning to pick up this game once my college semester ended. Hopefully the issues with the game will be resolved by then.
Quote from: VLordGTZ on April 05, 2017, 11:05:12 PM
Random question: Did the MN9 devs ever even release the 3DS and Vita versions that they promised?
Nope. That that I'm aware of. That was the reason that THEY choose an old engine, just to get it running on the 3DS. Wew lads. That's not even going into all the other stuff that Kickstarter backers didn't get for MN9. At least Yooka-Laylee team is on top of stuff with their Kickstarter, so that's a plus.
Quote from: Foggle on April 05, 2017, 11:13:17 AM
Yeah, I think pretty much any company would have done the same, even 10 or 20 years ago. JonTron may not actually be a racist, and I think there's a good chance he actually has no idea why what he said was horrible, but no family-oriented company releasing their first game would ever want to be associated with those kind of statements.
Jontron's political opinions were always like a pinball for a while. I remember he said he supported Bernie before he ended up losing the primaries. But I think his recent views could be due to some past incidents, like people harassing him for saying "retard" in a video and increasing disillusionment with leftists. Which at first was understandable, most people who just want to have fun on the internet have been growing very discontent at political opinions from both sides, but then he went on... those streams where he ranted about how Le Pen will save France or why black people are corrupting the gene pool. I want to think Jontron was just reading off some misinformed graphs other people gave him instead of stating his own opinions, or maybe he was taking the piss like when people such as me yell out horrible things in jest, but that was just a difficult situation. And I think Playtonic made the most reasonable action.
I felt like that Playtonic was screwed no matter what they thought to do to JonTron. People would have been pissed either way with retaining or removing him from the game. A perfect example of can't pleasing everyone. But yeah, that attitude that you mentioned does kinda hold true to other content creators as well. I notice that there is a backlash towards both extremes of the political spectrum. Though most of what I've seen, they don't end up like Jon, who felt like he took /pol/ seriously.
According to Digital Foundry, Yooka-Laylee has no performance issues on the PS4 and the patch fixed most of the Xbox's problems! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z4FPodGR82U
People were able to find JonTron's cameo in the game files before a major patch hit the game. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=req-W-V1bNk)
Well, Dunkey hates it. (https://youtu.be/GmUiVXW4R5E)
GameXplain had a pretty good discussion on it. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EmtVXLjMZh4)
This looks like it's going to be a highly divisive game. Since I backed it on Switch I won't get to play it for a while, but I'll be keeping my expectations tempered. Keep in mind, I'm not a fan of Tooie, and hearing people say this doesn't live up to even that isn't encouraging.
Well, I played it for about 3 hours tonight, and I like it quite a bit so far. The framerate on PS4 is just fine with no noticeable drops and the camera is nowhere near as bad as people say it is. Still, it does feel and control like an N64 game in a lot of ways, so I can see why some would have problem with it. For me it's a non-issue, but it's certainly a little disappointing that they couldn't have tightened things up at least a little.
I played the entire un-expanded first world and had a blast. The level is fun to explore for collectibles, it's bigger than the worlds in Kazooie but not overwhelmingly large like Tooie's could be, the music is lovely, and the writing is generally humorous. I will say that Rextro's arcade games are pretty bad, though. Trying to get the high score in the first one is like Beaver Bother part 2.
Okay, I've finished the game now - all collectibles, platinum trophy, etc. Overall, it's pretty good, but it's not quite up to the standard of the N64 originals and at times can feel a bit sloppy. Tooie haters need not worry, as it's much more like the first Banjo than the second. Worlds 4 and 5 are the most Tooie-like, but they're still far more compact and less complicated than its predecessor's.
Most - I'd say about 85-90% - of the game's challenges are either fun or easy. Unfortunately, Yooka-Laylee does delve pretty deep into the tedious mini-game territory of the N64 era at times, with certain sequences being far worse than anything in either Banjo title. One timed sliding challenge enraged me like no game has in a long time. I'd also say that it probably needed about 3-6 months longer in the oven, as World 5 feels extremely unpolished and some promised content didn't make it into the initial release. That said, Y-L is - for the most part - a pleasant and nostalgic experience. Not a perfect Banjo-Threeie, but something close to it. It successfully sated me and I no longer have a longing for the nonexistent game I've been wanting since I was a child, and that's exactly what they set out to do.
World 3 is easily the best one IMO - the entire thing was just a joy to play, even the swimming sections. World 4 was also very creative and had by far the best tracks from both Grant Kirkhope and David Wise. On the whole, the soundtrack is good, but I'd say only a few songs really stand out as memorable; the ones in World 4 are really something else, though. (Seriously, just listen to the boss theme... holy shit David Wise.) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5SMxgReJAQ) Great, great stuff. Worlds 1 and 2 are great fun but feel a little too derivative of past works, while World 5 has the coolest designs and ideas but some parts are so obviously unfinished that I had a hard time enjoying it half the time. The bosses are all cool but most go on for way too long. I played the PS4 version and didn't notice any performance problems whatsoever.
So yeah, it's a classic Rareware game, only less polished. If you liked Banjo-Kazooie as a kid and still return to it sometimes as an adult, you will definitely like Yooka-Laylee. It's not as good as its predecessors (though I think most will end up preferring it over Tooie), nor is it one of the better games released in this absolutely packed year, but it's well worth playing for any fan of the genre.
A new Battletoads has been announced at E3. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yrE9RU6DN4)
Here's my thoughts on the RareWare Games I have played
Donkey Kong Country Trilogy: Fantastic games. Great level design and the animal buddies are a lot of fun. Still love them to this day
Blast Corps: I don't remember much of this game admittedly, but I remember finding it pretty awesome and underrated. Loved blowing up stuff with the different vehicles.
GoldenEye 007: Its been a while since I've played it, but I remember enjoying it. From what I can recall, the controls haven't aged that well, but the multiplayer is really fun. I honestly didnt really like the single player mode much (Unpopular opinion right there) since it bored me, but I enjoyed playing the multiplayer mode with other people. I'm not a fan of FPS' at all (Red Steel 2 aside (and even that ones more of a first person swordighting shooter)), but GoldenEye was a fun one to play with other people.
Diddy Kong Racing: Its a very good game. I prefer "Mario Kart 64" since I think its more polished and fun, but this does have its own charm and has some very fun tracks to race on and a fun adventure mode. Also, the music is amazing.
Banjo Kazooie: I couldn't get into this game. Its not a bad game at all (Its a well made one), but there's a reason I couldn't get into it. While I do like exploration games like Zelda, I am not into the kind of 3D Platformers that requires you to explore every nook and cranny, since I get bored by them. Its a shame I couldn't get into them, since I like the music, characters, and humor. I will admit, its a good game, but the game just wasnt for me.
Donkey Kong 64: I love the Donkey Kong series, but I couldnt get into it like Banjo Kazooie and I got bored playing it. Love the DK Rap though.
Viva Pinata: Honestly a really fun simulation game. I love simulation games and this was a fun and relaxing one to play and it was pretty addicting. Animal Crossing is better, but this is still a fun little one.
Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise: Its even better than the original one. There's a lot of content in this one. I find the game to be a lot of fun. Even with this one though, I still find Animal Crossing to be better, but this one is an improvement upon the original
Out of all of them, my favorites are The Donkey Kong Country Trilogy
Tencent has acquired Playtonic (https://www.playtonicgames.com/news/playtonic-is-levelling-up)