Seems like casual games are getting hardcore respect nowadays. ‘Bout time people realized how much fun it is to bake cakes, cook food, and, uh, shoot balls at rectangles.
News Blips:
• Blizzard equips former PopCap vice president for +50 casual damage. The makers of World of Warcraft hired casual bigwig Greg Canessa to, well, we’re not sure yet, actually. But it will probably involve getting your mom to play WoW. Oh, wait — your mom already plays it. Haha — our bad! [Kotaku]
• Pearl Jam to put live songs in fake Rock Band. The famous Seattle grunge group announced on its website it will be helping release a live compilation disc for Rock Band where fans help choose the songs. Weirdly enough, “Free Bird” is not the list. [GameSpot]
• Bethesda thinks its unannounced first-person shooter is awesome. How awesome? Well, apparently it’s a “killer app.” Well, duh — it’s a first-person shooter. [GamesIndustry.biz via Kotaku]
• Germany bans lasers/paintballs, blames videogames. Since videogames obviously turn kiddos into killers, Germany is just saying no to any fun involving lights and/or balls. What’s next? Water guns? Finger guns? Tommy Gunns? [Gamepolitics]
• Millionth English word is for noobs. Apparently the word “noob” may become an official word. Who decides these things? Because I have an idea for word: Michaeldonahoeisthecoolestpersonintheworldtimestentotheinfinitypowerlolthisisalongassword. [1UP]
Hit the jump for some video blips, including Punch-Out!! developer knockouts, a nostalgic look back at Mega Man, a Prince of Persia movie clip, and…more.
Video Blips:
• Punch-Out!! developers punch each other in the face awkwardly. Needs more jogging outside of New York City.
• Remember the original Mega Man without smashing your head through a wall. And even learn a few things, too.
• Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 teaser reveals people still at war. Peace is underrated.
Cultural Blip:
• Prince of Persia movie makes girls swoon, gamers cringe. Cue Cher song in 3…2…1…
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUnoO17ZJgM&w=425&h=344]