s I cram Thursday's turkey into my fridge between beer bottles and milk cartons, I wonder if the hard-working ladies and gentlemen employed by the world's myriad gaming retailers are having as much of a problem fitting this week's releases onto already crowded shelves. Sure, things are slowing down as November turns to December. Still, that doesn't mean that a trip to a local store will send you home empty-handed.
Despite the fact that some folks have been enjoying Mass Effect for over a week-and-a-half (thank you Kmart), Bioware's newest RPG is officially rolled out at retail this week. Featuring an innovative conversation system and combat controls that lean towards tactical, it looks as though the folks who brought us Knights of the Old Republic have managed to succeed with their own source material. Sorry, George.
Soulcalibur games have always been known for their incredibly philosophical stories ("Lizardman WINS!!!"), but Namco has decided to "kick it up a notch" with Soulcalibur Legends on the Wii. All kidding aside, this newest entry in the franchise hopes to shake things up with Wiimote controls and an enhanced campaign mode. Though most folks will probably want to wait for next year's Soul Calibur IV, diehard fans might actually enjoy learning more about their favorite characters.
Bethesda comes through with yet another Trek game. This time, it's Star Trek: Conquest, a turn-based strategy title for both the PS2 and the Wii. The game promises both the excitement of starship battles and the challenge of managing resources across an interstellar empire. Although game play footage doesn't do much to impress, the title's bargain retail price may entice Trekkers to give it a try.
Remember when you picked up Geometry Wars for $10 on the Live Arcade two years ago? Well, Wii fans may be able to experience those same thrills this week at a $30 premium. Although Geometry Wars: Galaxies promises the same white-knuckle intensity as the original 360 release, I'm forced to ask whether a slightly enhanced port of an aging shooter is worth a $40 price tag. Wii owners – you be the judge.
Uncharted: Drake's Fortune arrives this week, and the folks at Naughty Dog may have really pulled out the stops for their first PS3 release. With its lush graphics, basic environmental puzzles and an easy to master combat system, Uncharted may be the title that Sony's been waiting for. You know – the one that could actually sell systems.
PC gamers also have a reason to head to their local game store thanks to the release of Unreal Tournament III. Featuring the same adrenaline-fueled action that's kept the series going for nearly a decade, this newest release is sure to excite both casual players and the hardcore tournament crowd.
I'd like to wish all of those who intend on braving the malls this "Black Friday" the best of luck – to everyone else, a happy Thanksgiving. Here's hoping you're able to sit back and make time for family, and a little bit of gaming too!
