GAME INFORMER PREDICTS: THE HOT PICKS FOR E3
Veteran Editor Andy McNamara comments on top games, the "Ones to Watch."
MINNEAPOLIS - (May 12, 2003) - Game Informer, the nation's leading computer and video game magazine, today listed its top picks for the hotttest games at this year's E3 Expo. (Check back for GI's wrap-up of E3, including any surprise showings, after the Expo.)
As he packs his bag for Los Angeles, GI Editor-in-Chief Andy McNamara breaks down a list of the top 10 game titles, plus one bonus pick, that he and his editors will be looking at more closely during E3. "This year is shaping up to be one of the strongest years for games," said McNamara. "It's a year full of sequels, but I don't think anyone's complaining with such a star-studded list of titles returning. IF they all make it out this year, it will be a very impressive season for video games."
Here are Game Informer's picks, in no particular order:
Halo 2
Publisher: Microsoft
Developer: Bungie Studios
Platform: Xbox
McNamara says: "This follow-up to the Xbox's breakthrough launch title will surely amaze gamers. Even though it will only be shown on video, it could still be a shoo-in for game of the show."
Mario Kart: Double Dash
Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: Nintendo
Platform: GameCube
McNamara says: "Gamers have been waiting patiently for Mario Kart's triumphant return to consoles since 1997, and Double Dash shouldn't disappoint. Featuring support of Nintendo's new Local Area Network functionality, expect Double Dash to be THE party game for GameCube this holiday season.
Half-Life 2
Publisher: Vivendi Universal
Developer: Valve
Platform: PC
McNamara says: "The original Half-Life set the gaming world on its ear with amazing story and adventure elements, and the long-awaited sequel already has the online community buzzing with excitement."
Doom III
Publisher: Activision
Developer: id Software
Platform: PC
McNamara says: "Last year's sneak peek at Doom III sent waves through the industry with its amazing visuals. At last, we get to play the game. Expect Doom III to scare the pants off of anyone with pulse-pounding gameplay to back up its spectacular graphics.
Medal Of Honor: Rising Sun
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Developer: Electronic Arts
Platform: PlayStation 2, Xbox, GameCube
McNamara says: "Medal Of Honr: Allied Assault thrilled gamers with its amazing re-creation of the Normandy invasion. As breathtaking as that scene was, it's nothing compared to Rising Sun's re-entactment of Pearl Harbor. It's so real; it's scary."
Gran Turismo 4
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment America
Developer: Polyphony Digital
Platform: PlayStation 2
McNamara says: "Little is known about Sony's follow-up to the greatest racing game of all time, but we do know it is going to be online and feature the biggest line-up of vehicles the world has ever seen. We expect to be amazed by its new photo-realistic graphics as well."
Spider-Man 2
Publisher: Activision
Developer: Treyarch
Platform: PlayStation 2, Xbox, GameCube
McNamara says: "With incredible open-city exploration inspired by Grand Theft Auto III, and strong ties to next year's upcoming feature film, Spider-Man 2 could very well be the surprise hit of the show. Kids and adults alike simply adore this character, and seeing that this is Spider-Man's most ambitious game to date, it will surely create a buzz at E3."
The Sims 2
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Developer: Maxis
Platform: PC
McNamara says: "Without question, everyone is curious to see where Electronic Arts plants to take this series next. The Sims' comedic view on life and irresistable gameplay proved to be a winning combination for millions of PC gamers. If this sequel can replicate the magic of its predecessor, gamers will be lining up for miels to trade in their lives for a digital alter ego."
Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater
Publisher: Konami
Developer: Konami
Platform: PlayStation 2
McNamara says: "After the debacle that was Raiden in Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty, it's good to see Konami gives the series back to its hero, Solid Snake. This time around he finds himself battling it out in the jungle. Think Rambo, but not as lame."
Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles
Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: Square Soft
Platform: GameCube
McNamara says: "After spending years apart, Nintendo and Square Soft are reuniting for a Gamecube exclusive Final Fantasy adventure. Up to four players can quest together in this groundbreaking entry to the epic series."
Jak II
Developer: Naughty Dog
Platform: PlayStation 2
McNamara says: "If Jak and Daxter is considered a platform game, Jak II should be classified as a sweeping adventure that redefines what a platformer can be.
About Game Informer
Founded in 1991, Game Informer is the leading computer and video game magazine, with circulation topping one million subscribers. GI was named the fastest-growing consumer magazine in 2002 by Advertising Age DataCenter, experiencing 260 percent growth from June 2001 to June 2002. A veteran to publishing for active game consumers, GI provides in-depth knowledge and insight into the gaming industry and is “the final word on computer and video games.”