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Get Your Geek On: Big Savings on Gaming Merchandise and Accessories

Tetris Mechandise
February 18, 2013 By In Gadgets, Games, Saving Money

Given the recent explosion of smartphones and tablets, it appears we’ve become a nation of gamers. Seriously, just take a look around you. If you’re reading this on the bus or the tube, there’s a good chance you’ve already spotted somebody catapulting hapless pigs into a neatly-stacked pile of boxes. And that meteorite in Russia? That wasn’t a lump of space-rock; it was Mother Nature beating her high score in Angry Birds Space, obviously.

Of course, given the nation’s new-found appreciation for video games, it’s little wonder so many companies are jumping on the bandwagon to release gaming merchandise. Still, while anybody from the 90s will recall such copycat atrocities as Moon Cat – sold on market stalls as a kind of bloated, knock-off Pikachu to confuse clueless parents – the gaming merch’ scene has vastly improved since then.

Nowadays there’s an absolute plethora of quirky, interesting and high-quality gaming merchandise available for gamers to enjoy. From gaming gizmos and gadgets to t-shirts and homewares, we’ve rounded up the very best gaming merch’ out there. Why not check out these fantastic products, and treat the seasoned gamer in your life?

Tetris Office Supplies

Few games are as iconic as Alexey Pajitnov’s block-tumbling puzzler, Tetris. Fortunately, you can now show your appreciation for the game in the workplace, thanks to these fantastic, block-themed office supplies. Boasting everything from desk organisers to highlighters (which have been scientifically proven to make spreadsheets at least 79% more fun), these can be picked up from just £3.99 at I Want One Of Those – IWOOT.

Video Game Clothing and Accessories

When it comes to expressing your interests, few things rival a themed t-shirt. Hipsters are all too keen to rock slim fit band tees, so why shouldn’t the same apply for video games? We reckon these t-shirts are dead cool, and what’s more, they’re a steal at just £28 at Firebox.

For even more gadget and gaming discounts, including 10% off when you buy 3 items at I Want One Of Those, be sure to check out myvouchercodes.co.uk.

Gaming Discounts: Last Year’s Games, New Year’s Prices

Hitman Absolution
January 21, 2013 By In Games, Saving Money

When it comes to video games and geekery, January is shaping up to be a fantastic month. Never mind the recent shower of snow, which has been spewing its way across the country for the past week; it’s possibly the closest we’ll ever get to being in a snow level from Super Mario World, after all. Besides, with workplaces and schools shutting down for the cold snap, you’ve never had a better opportunity to catch up on twenty twelve’s finest games.

Fortunately, with the sale season in full swing, there’s never been a better time to hunt for gaming bargains. Indeed, whether you’re buying a shiny new game or pre-owned gem, there’s a plethora of fantastic games out there for you to enjoy – and we’ve rounded up the very best of them. Here’s our pick of the biggest gaming bargains around…

Far Cry 3

While a tropical island might sound like the perfect holiday destination, you might want to think again. Set on an island ravaged by violence, players find themselves caught up in a bloody brawl between psychotic warlords and indigenous rebels. With a beautiful, sprawling environment to explore; mysteries to uncover and brilliant gunplay, Far Cry 3 is an absolute steal for thirty quid.

Best Price: £30 at Amazon Total Saving: £9.99

Assassin’s Creed 3

While not quite the pinnacle of the popular stealth series, Assassin’s Creed III is still worth your time and money. Set in an alternate history, the game follows Renaissance stabber, Altair, and bland-o-man Desmond Miles as they embark on a journey through time to discover hidden truths. It’s a bit like the BBC’s Who Do You Think You Are, but with less Jeremy Clarkson and the more disembowelling. Well worth a look.

Best Price: £29.99 at Amazon (Pre-owned) Total Saving: £10

Call of Duty: Black Ops 2

Okay, okay, so the campaign makes less sense than Inception watched in reverse, but that hasn’t stopped Black Ops: 2 selling like hot cakes. While it’s certainly not as brilliant as Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, Treyarch has done a fantastic job emulating the style and sass of Infinity Ward’s military cash cow. While the campaign mode has its fair share of highlights (nightclub shootouts, anyone?), it’s the multiplayer that truly stands out here.

Best Price: £24.99 at Play (pre-owned) Total Saving: £10

Need for Speed: Most Wanted

Good old Criterion Games, eh? The Need for Speed franchise had been waning for years until the arrival of NFS: Hot Pursuit – a high-octane, arcade racer that breathed new life into the ageing series. Now, the Guildford-based developers have done it again with NFS: Most Wanted, a game that’s every bit as explosive as its 2005, cop-dodging original.

Best Price: £18.99 at Play (Pre-owned) Total Saving: £21

Resident Evil 6

Essentially three games in one, Resident Evil 6 gives a lot of bang for your buck. While not as terrifying as previous instalments, thanks to a new-found emphasis on kicking things in the face, Resident Evil 6 is an adrenaline-packed adventure that should appeal to anyone who loves the Gears of War franchise. With ballsy set pieces, honking melodrama, and a soundtrack worthy of the biggest Hollywood blockbuster, Resident Evil 6 is certainly worth a look.

Best price: £12 at Amazon (Pre-owned) Total Saving: £28

Hitman: Absolution

After the lukewarm reception of IO’s Kane and Lynch, fans were overjoyed to see their favourite, follically-challenged agent return for yet another stab-fest. With decidedly Hollywood production values, Hitman: Absolution takes a more story-based approach to proceedings, as opposed to the mission-based structure of previous games. While there are certainly a few missteps, Hitman: Absolution shows great promise for the future of the franchise, and comes highly recommended for fans of the series.

Best Price: £14.99 at Play (Pre-owned) Total Saving: £25

Mass Effect 3

Mass Effect 3 is a storytelling experience like no other. Picking up where the last game left off, players once again assume the role of Commander Shepard – humanity’s last hope against the Reapers, a synthetic race of star ships, hell-bent on wiping the galaxy of sentient life. Boasting incredible dialogue, stunning visuals, and voice acting from Hollywood’s finest, Mass Effect 3 is essential.

Best Price: £11.99 at Game (Pre-owned) Total Saving: £28

Dishonored

When it was first announced, games critics fell to their knees at the mere sight of Dishonored – and it’s not hard to see why. Mixing the best elements of Half-Life 2 and BioShock into one cohesive package, Dishonored is a first person shooter like no other. Oh, and it’s dash pretty to boot.

Best Price: £24.99 at Game Total Saving: £15

Max Payne 3

Max Payne 3 is arguably the darkest game in the series yet. Double-crossed and locked in a city of violence and bloodshed, Max must blast his way to the truth in this third outing, resulting in one of the most electrifying experiences of the year. With breathtaking animation and some of the most cinematic storytelling ever committed to a video game, Max Payne 3 is a full-on assault on the senses.

Best Price: £14 at ShopTo Total Saving: £26

Halo 4

Nothing gets pulses racing faster than the launch of a new Halo game. Helmed by new developer 343 Industries, Halo 4 is a game of tremendous scope, and one that far outpaces its forerunners when it comes to narrative. With powerful new weapons to wield, vehicles to drive and enemies to battle, the game rarely sports a dull moment. Couple this with a brilliantly addictive multiplayer mode, and you’ve got of the best games on Xbox 360. Halo 4 is about as essential as gaming gets.

Best Price: £25 at Play (Pre-owned) Total Saving: £15

Borderlands 2

The follow-up to the original ‘looter shooter’, Borderlands 2 once again returns to the land of Pandora – which now finds itself in the clutches of Handsome Jack, a corporate bigot who is mining the planet of its precious resources. Needless to say, it’s up to you to defeat him before he awakens an ancient alien evil known only as “the Warrior.” With beautiful cel-shaded visuals, an imaginative world to explore, and an anarchic sense of humour, Borderlands 2 comes highly recommended.

Best Price: £19.85 at ShopTo Total Saving: £20.14

Want to expand your gaming library this year, but don’t want to spend an absolute fortune? Be sure to keep an eye on myvouchercodes.co.uk for all the latest gaming discounts.

Top 10 Most Anticipated Games of 2013

Beyond
January 14, 2013 By In Games, Saving Money

What’s that? You’re still playing last year’s games? Well, you’d better get a move on, then! With the possibility of two new console releases before Christmas, not to mention a bevy of brilliant games on current-gen consoles, it’s going to be a landmark year for gaming.

Of course, buying all of those games might be quite expensive – especially if you’re buying them at full whack. With that in mind, we’ve listed our most anticipated games for twenty thirteen, and where to find them at the best price. So, without further ado, here are the games we’re most looking forward to this year…

1. BioShock Infinite

Never mind the duller-than-dishwater box art, which resembles every other shooter since time began. BioShock Infinite is shaping up to be something very special indeed. Set on the floating city of Columbia, you play as Booker Dewitt – a former Pinkerton agent on the lookout for Elizabeth, a young woman who has been held captive by the mysterious ‘Songbird’ for years. The combat should be familiar to anybody who’s ever played BioShock, and there’s even a novel ‘skyhook’ system that allows Booker to zip around Columbia like an old-fashioned rollercoaster. It’s Beauty and the Beast: The Game, basically, and we can’t wait to get our hands on it.

Best price: Pre-order your copy from £27.85 at Zavvi.

2. Tomb Raider

Let’s face it; Tomb Raider has been treading water for years. Indeed, while the series has almost recovered from the low point that was TR: Angel of Darkness, recent releases have done little to shake up the existing formula. Fortunately, the latest Tomb Raider game does just that. Casting Lara Croft as a nigh-on-foetal 21 year old, this is an origins story in every sense of the word. With limited skills, spectacular set pieces and a greater emphasis on survival, this promises to be Lara’s most epic adventure yet.

Best price: Pre-order your copy from £29.95 at Zavvi.

3. Gears of War Judgement

What do you do when you’ve blown up an entire locust army, and there’s nobody left to shoot? Well, you make a prequel of course! A joint venture between Epic Games and People Can Fly – the Polish studio behind Bulletstorm, Gears of War: Judgement is shaping up to be the surprise hit of the year. Set before the events of the original game, this latest instalment centres of Augustus Cole, Damen Baird (as well as fresh faces, Sofia Hendericks and Garron Paduk) as they attempt to save the city of Halvo Bay from a “frightening new enemy”. Gulp.

Best Price: Pre-order your copy from £39.85 at ShopTo.net.

4. Ni No Kuni

Japanese role playing games have fallen out of favour lately, but Ni No Kuni looks set to remind us what makes them so special. A joint collaboration between Level 5 (Dragon Quest, Professor Layton) and animation giant, Studio Ghibli (Spirited Away), Ni No Kuni looks to be a journey to warm the heart.

Best price: Pre-order your copy from £34.95 at Zavvi.

5. DMC: Devil May Cry

Never judge a book by the cover.  Ninja Theory’s bold reimagining of Capcom’s demon-hunting epic caused quite a stir online, with many fans wondering why series hero Dante now resembled a sort of depressed Harry Potter, but we needn’t have worried. DMC Devil May Cry is possibly the most confident, stylish and amusing DMC yet.

Best Price: Pre-order your copy from £37.98 at Zavvi.

6. Grand Theft Auto V

It’s been almost five years since Rockstar’s crime-centric opus, Grand Theft Auto IV, and since then, we’ve been left dreaming about the future of the franchise. Fortunately, Rockstar have been doing just that, with GTA V shaping up to be the studio’s most imaginative and ambitious game yet. Set in Liberty City, the latest instalment features three playable characters, Michael, Trevor and Franklin, whose stories merge to create something that would give Quentin Tarantino the willies. Colour us excited.

Best Price: Pre-order your copy from £39.99 at Amazon.

7. The Last of Us

Zombies have been done to death in television, movies and games of late, but The Last of Us looks truly original. Developed by Naughty Dog – the studio behind Uncharted – The Last of Us tells the story or Joel and Ellie, survivors of a deadly virus that has wiped out the majority of humankind. It’s Joel’s almost paternal relationship, and witty banter, with Ellie that makes the game so special, though. See? Who says you can’t make a zombie game with braaaaiiins!

Best price: Pre-order your copy from £39.95 at Zavvi.

8. Beyond: Two Souls

Few studios ‘get’ cinematic spectacle quite like Quantic Dream. Indeed, as fans of Heavy Rain will know, their games feature some of the most adult themes, characters and storylines ever devoted to disc. Fortunately, the studio’s latest game, Beyond: Two Souls, looks set to continue this lofty tradition, casting Ellen Page as Jodie Holmes – a young girl plagued by psychic abilities. Set over 15 years of Jodie’s life, Beyond: Two Souls explores the meaning of life, and looks to be a truly unique experience.

Best Price: Pre-order your copy from £39.95 at Zavvi.

9. Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance

Helmed by critically-acclaimed studios Kojima Productions and Platinum Games, Metal Gear Rising bears all the hallmarks of its madcap creators:  gobsmacking production values, a brilliantly daft name, and all the high-octane action you could ever ask for. Essentially Bayonetta with a Metal Gear Solid veneer, this will surely be one of the most explosive and enjoyable action titles on console.

Best Price: Pre-order your copy from £34.99 at Amazon.

10. Crysis 3

Remember that bit in the Simpsons Movie, when a gigantic dome is placed on top of Springfield as a punishment for destroying the ecosystem? Well, Crysis 3 is a lot like that. Set in a freshly-domed New York, it’s up to Prophet (the nanosuited hero from the previous games) to liberate The Big Apple in a revenge mission to end all revenge missions. Of course, behind all the sci-fi silliness lies a beautifully-designed first person romp to get the pulse racing.

Best Price: Pre-order your copy from £29.95 at Zavvi.

Be sure to check out myvouchercodes.co.uk for all of the latest gaming discounts, including 10% off video game pre-orders at Zavvi and The Hut.

Christmas on a Budget: Top 5 Must Have Toys Under £60

fURBYfINAL
December 10, 2012 By In Christmas, Gadgets, Games, Gifts

Socks? Jumpers? Hats? Pah!  Everybody knows that Christmas is all about the toys.  I mean, what’s so special about clothes, anyway?  You stick them on your limbs for five seconds, and then they go out of fashion.  A brand new toy, on the other hand, will be cherished for years to come.

Indeed, whether they’re expanding our collective imaginations, or helping us interact with the world in which we live, toys are a vital part of our childhood – so choosing the right one for your kids can be pretty tough.  Thankfully, we’ve scoured the internet for the very best toys available for anyone planning Christmas on a budget.

These toys are sure to keep the kids (and a few adults) entertained this Christmas, and they are all under £60.

Furby from Hasbro

Love him or loathe him, Furby is back!  That’s right; the all-singing, all-dancing, fluff-pot has been given an overhaul that should appeal to kiddiewinks raised on Nintendo Wii and Ben 10.  But fear not!  Furby 2.0 doesn’t sport a Gatling gun, and they haven’t equipped him with a TV innards either – so you can’t watch The Only Way is Essex on his tummy like a depressing Teletubby.

Instead, Hasbro has improved Furby’s best bits: namely, his eyes.  Now brighter and more expressive, it’s like owning your very own pet, but without all the messy business.  You can even link Furby to your iPad or iPhone, and thanks to a snazzy app, interact with it like a Tamagotchi.  Needless to say, world domination is imminent.

Order yours for £59.99 at The Entertainer, and get 5% off your order with our discount code…

Nerf N-Strike Elite Hail-Fire

Children are hell raisers at heart, so why not let them express their destructive side with a Nerf N-Strike Elite Hail-Fire?  A veritable beast of a toy, the Hail-fire blaster holds up to 144 Elite Darts, and has a range of up to 75 feet – which is perfect for garden and living room shootouts.  What’s more, you can even use the gun’s Acceleration Trigger for semi-automatic blasting.  Of course, if that sounds a bit dangerous, then fear not!  Nerf’s rubber-tipped darts help to ensure your kids’ safety at all times.

Order yours for £33.74 at The Entertainer and get 5% off your order with our discount code…

Mattel Angry Birds Exclusive Board Game Mega Smash

In just a few short years, the Angry Brids franchise has gone from strength to strength.  Since its launch on iPhone and Android, the franchise has evolved to accommodate children’s toys, accessories and winter warmers.  And it doesn’t end there.  Now available in board game form, Angry Birds Mega Smash is sure to be a huge success this Christmas.  Essentially a physical version of the iPhone game, Mega Smash allows players to build, launch, and destroy structures with a competitive twist.  Essential for fans of the series.

Order yours for £19.99 at Toys R Us, and get 5% off RRP for a limited time.

Barbie Family Puppy Play Park

Barbie Family Puppy Play Park is the perfect gift for girls.  With its delightful ‘backyard’ setting, this exciting new pack allows you to train Barbie’s adorable puppies.  The larger puppy has an innovative sound-recognition feature, which responds to Barbie’s clapping by performing tricks, which is sure to delight the kids for hours.  Featuring a large Barbie doll, doghouse play set, large sound-activated puppy, little puppy, a ball and a bone, the Barbie Family Puppy Play Park offers fantastic value for money.

Order yours for £13,99 at Amazon.co.uk.

Vtech Innotab 2

Tablet computers are everywhere these days, so why not get them off to an early start with the Vtech Innotab 2?  Essentially an iPad for beginners, the Innotab 2 offers educational games, fun activities and e-books on a multi-functional touch-screen.  The latest model even features a self-rotating camera and for photos, videos and enhanced gameplay.  Parents can even download new games and e-books onto an SD card (sold separately) for consistently fresh and exciting experiences.

Order yours for £49.99 at Amazon.co.uk.

Thinking about getting your kids a new toy for Christmas?  Be sure to check out myvouchercodes for all of the latest toy and gaming discounts.

Nintendo Wii U Review: To buy or not to buy?

Wii U Hot
December 3, 2012 By In Christmas, Games

It’s been six years since Nintendo re-imagined the humble console with the Wii, and now the Japanese giant looks set to do it again! Following a brilliant launch weekend in the United States, the Wii U has finally hit UK shores, and it’s time for us to see what all the fuss is about.

Plus read on for details of how you can Win your very own Wii U!

If you are eagerly awaiting details of the new Wii U, don’t despair; thankfully the What’s Hot team is here to help. We’ve snagged our very own Wii U, and have been playing it feverishly to bring you the most in-depth report around.

Thinking about getting a Wii U for Christmas, but want to know more? Check out our hands-on report below…

The Wii U

Don’t let the name deceive you: the Wii U is an entirely new console, built from the ground up with new hardware and capabilities. Boasting high definition graphics for the first time, the Wii U is an impressive piece of kit to say the least. Weighing in at 1.5 kg, the Wii U is heavier than it’s predecessor, but doesn’t hog too much space under the telly, thanks to its slimline design. What’s more, the Wii U doesn’t even break into a sweat, thanks to a twin-fan cooling system that runs without making too much of a racket.

The GamePad

Despite offering improved visuals and snazzy new hardware, it’s the Wii U GamePad that hogs much of the limelight. The tablet-like controller features a 6 inch touchscreen that works in conjunction with your television. The GamePad also features all of the buttons you’d expect to find on a traditional controller, including an accelerometer and gyroscope, meaning that hardcore shooters and traditional games will work brilliantly on Wii U. You can even switch all of the gameplay to the tablet itself, which is great if you want to continue gaming while your family is using the television. It’s also backwards compatible with Nintendo Wii games, so you can continue to enjoy all of your favourite games on the new console.

The Pro Controller

If you prefer a more traditional gaming experience, the Wii U’s Pro Controller might be for you. Essentially a cross between the Xbox 360 gamepad and the Wii’s Classic Controller Pro, the Pro Controller offers everything you’d expect from a modern controller. Unfortunately, it isn’t bundled with the console, so you’ll have to fork out £40 if you want Black Ops II to feel ‘right’.

Basic Pack and Premium Pack

If you’re thinking about buying a Wii U, you’ll have to decide which version to go for. The Basic Pack, which retails for around £249.99, comes with everything you need to get started, including an 8GB Wii U console, GamePad, power pack and HDMI cable. This pack is perfect for people who might be upgrading from the Wii, as they will already own a sensor bar to play original Wii games.

The premium pack, on the other hand, retails for £310 and contains everything that’s in the Basic Pack, only with a 32GB Wii U Console, a sensor bar, a vertical stand, a charging cradle for the GamePad and a copy of Nintendo Land.

Online Functionality

Consoles are capable of so much more than playing games these days, and the Wii U is no different. Nintendo’s new console features an interesting, dual-screened internet browser, so you can catch up on the latest news, or chat to your friends on Facebook and Twitter.

You can also watch all of your favourite YouTube videos on the big (or small) screen, which is much easier than gathering your family around a laptop.  The  Wii U also boasts something called the ‘Miiverse’, an interesting social hub that greets gamers when they power up the console. It’s essentially Twitter for gamers, and it works brilliantly.

The Games

No console launch would be complete without a cracking line-up of games, and the Wii U is no different. Boasting everything from Assassin’s Creed 3, to zombie-blaster ZombiU, the Wii U packs more than enough ‘oomph’ to impress hardcore gamers. But there’s also games that will appeal to the whole family, including New Super Mario Bros. U, Just Dance 4 and Nintendo Land – a virtual theme park, crammed with mini-games that never get old.

For your chance to win your very own Wii U simply enter our exclusive Facebook competition. ENTER NOW before the closing date on 9th December for your chance to win.  And if you’re thinking about getting your family a Wii U for Christmas, be sure to check out MyVoucherCodes.co.uk for all of the latest gaming discounts.

Top 5 Games to play on iOS and Android Tablets

iPad_gaming
November 20, 2012 By In Games, Lifestyle

When Steve Jobs announced the iPad in 2010, the gaming world scoffed with derision. “Games without buttons? Don’t make us laugh!” they cried, before quickly returning to their trusty game pads. How wrong we were, though…

In just a few short years, tablet PCs have revolutionised the way shop, talk to our friends, and, most importantly of all, play video games. These days, the App Store is a treasure trove of quirky, downloadable games that are fun to play on the bus, toilet or just about anywhere – and it didn’t even exist a few years ago!

Of course, with such a vast library of games available on tablets, there’s a great deal of rubbish clogging up release schedules, too. Not sure which games are worth downloading? Check out these brilliant games for iPad, Google Nexus and Kindle Fire. You can’t go wrong.

Angry Birds: Star Wars

Almost everybody’s playing Angry Birds these days, and rightly so! With its colourful visuals, addictive game play, and delightfully simple premise (fling a hapless avian into a pile of crates for giggles and high scores), it’s taken the world by storm. This latest version is essentially a best-of package, only with the Star Wars universe wrapped around it. Perfect for fans of the movies.

Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective

Developed by Ace Attorney creator, Shu Takumi, this fantastic text adventure will keep you amused for hours. The game casts you as Sissel, a ghost with unfinished business, and it’s basically up to you to discover your true identity, solve puzzles and, of course, save the girl. With brilliant animation, delightful cel-shaded visuals and a funky soundtrack, you’ll want to play it all over again.

Temple Run

There are dozens of ‘endless running’ games on tablets, but few are as exciting as Temple Run. Remember those bits from Raiders of the Lost Ark, where Harrison Ford had to escape from booby-trapped dungeons, armed with ancient treasures? Well, Temple Run is a lot like that – only with demonic monkeys! From jumping over fallen logs, to turning corners with the swipe of your finger, gaming doesn’t get any more addictive than this.

Plants Vs. Zombies

While strategy games are typically associated with hardcore gamers, who understand words like “buff” and “insta-death”, Plants vs. Zombies changed all of that. The game basically describes what Alan Titchmarsh would do during a zombie apocalypse, with players barricading their homes from the un-dead with various plants and vegetables. Lose too many plants, and it’s brain-munch-o-clock for your family. Brilliant stuff.

Jetpack Joyride

Perhaps the most accessible game ever made, Jetpack Joyride is also one of the most enjoyable. By tapping the touch screen, players can use the titular jetpack to elude all manner of obstacles, including electric blasts, laser beams and robotic enemies. With a whole host of upgrades, including weapons, shields and additional lives, this one is perfect for the morning commute.

Thinking about getting your loved ones a tablet for Christmas? Be sure to check out myvouchercodes.co.uk for all of the latest gaming discounts.

Halo 4: London Launch and Game Review

Halo 4
November 6, 2012 By In Games

It’s been two years since Bungie plonked its digital baby into the hands of 343 Industries, and since then we’ve been eagerly anticipating the studio’s first Halo game. 

Now, the wait is finally over, and it’s time for us to answer that all important question: does 343 Industries have what it takes to create a world-class Halo game? The answer, you’ll be happy to hear, is a resounding “yes”.

Put simply, Halo 4 is the game we’ve all been waiting for, not to mention one that shows great promise for the future of the franchise. Indeed, everything you’ve ever loved about Halo – from its gorgeous aesthetic to its stunning vehicular and on-foot combat – is present and correct, and the game carries an air of confidence that far exceeds Bungie’s past offerings.

Much like the original title, Halo 4 is a game of tremedous scope. In fact, to say that it pushes the limits of the Xbox 360′s seven-year-old hardware is an understatement. Indeed, it’s a game that revels in the minutiae of its universe, evoking a sense of discovery, spectacle and wonder without ever losing sight of the plot.

Set a few years after the events of Halo 3, the fourth installment picks up where the last game left off, with Master Chief and Cortana adrift on the wreckage of UNSC frigate, Forward Unto Dawn. Needless to say, the couple soon find themselves stranded on the mysterious Forerunner planet of Requiem, which not only provides the lush backdrop to Halo 4, but introduces a new threat in the deadly Prometheans.

Of course, no Halo game is complete without a spot of drama, and Halo 4 is no exception. This time around, Cortana is beginning to show symptoms of “rampancy” – a degenerative disease that affects ageing AIs, transforming them into a dangerous, unhinged entities. And with the disease spelling death for many of those affected, Halo 4 promises to be the most emotionally affecting Halo game to date.

That’s not to say Halo has gone soft, though. On the contrary, Halo 4′s firefights are among the most memorable in the series’ history. And with powerful new weapons to wield, vehicles to drive and enemies to battle, the game rarely sports a dull moment.

Couple this with a brilliantly addictive multiplayer mode, and the ability to play through the campaign with up to three pals, and you’ve got of the best games out this year. Halo 4 is about as essential as gaming gets.

The Halo 4 Midnight Launch Event

According to Microsoft, over 10,000 stores opened around the world last night to celebrate the launch of Halo 4. Needless to say, the What’s Hot team were there to celebrate the official London launch in style.

The event kicked off at London’s Tower Bridge, where Microsoft hovered the Halo glyph to the amazement of a Halo-loving crowd (and a few puzzled bystanders), before relocating to Game in Stratford for the official midnight launch.

Lucky fans had the chance to be photographed with Master Chief, not to mention win a load of Halo goodies, and the whole night buzzed with a level of excitement that will stay with fans for many years.

Halo 4 is out on 6 November on Xbox 360, and remember: you can get £10 off when you spend £50 at TheHut.com.

For all the latest gaming discounts, be sure to check out MvVoucherCodes.co.uk.

Top 10 Horror Games: The Scariest Games to Play on Halloween

Resident Evil 6
October 29, 2012 By In Games, Top 10

Halloween is almost upon us, which can only mean one thing: the once peaceful streets of the UK will soon be overrun by ghosts, demons and people dressed as cats. 

Needless to say if you’re too terrified to leave the house, but still fancy joining in with the celebration, you could always power up your trusty console. There are dozens of brilliant horror games available to play this Halloween, and we’ve rounded up the best of them.

These horror classics are sure to get your pulse racing, not to mention get your Halloween off to a smashing start…

Alan Wake

With its creepy locale and chilling premise, Alan Wake was the talk of the town when it was first announced in 2005. Unfortunately, horror fans had to wait another five years to play it, as the game underwent a series of major design changes. The resulting game, released in 2010, follows bestselling author Alan Wake, who, upon taking a vacation to Bright Falls, witnesses his novel spring to life before his very eyes. With its intriguing plot, superb soundtrack (The Old Gods of Asgard, anyone?), and some of the most tense action in video game history, this one’s a real treat.

Resident Evil 6

Whatever you think of Resident Evil’s new direction, you can’t deny the series is synonymous with horror. The latest installment, Resident Evil 6,  attempts to appease fans of the original games and newcomers alike, offering three distinct campaigns to blast through. With stunning visuals, fantastic sound design and improved combat (including the ability to unleash powerful melee attacks), this is a vast improvement on the somewhat lacking Resident Evil 5.

F.E.A.R 3

As horror-buffs will undoubtedly know, few things are scarier than demonic children. Especially those with a fondness for hiding in dark corners, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. That’s precisely what happens in F.E.A.R, though. While the story is unlikely to make sense to those who haven’t played the previous games (and if you haven’t, they can be snapped up for a mere pennies these days), F.E.A.R 3 remains a fantastic example of a horror shooter.

Dead Space 2

Modern cosmology tells us that 99 percent of the universe is made of stuff we can’t actually see. Indeed, that’s certainly the feeling you get while playing Dead Space 2. Set three years after the original game, on the mysterious city of Titan, Dead Space 2′s greatest asset – at least in terms of scares – lies in what you don’t see. And with bloodthirsty Necromorphs on the loose, series protagonist Isaac Clarke is in for one heck of a bumpy ride. A modern horror classic.

Silent Hill: HD Collection

Silent Hill is arguably the most iconic horror series in gaming history, and with good reason. You see, while Resident Evil trades on simple yet effective scares, Silent Hill takes a more psychological approach to the genre, with images and events that have been specifically designed to shake players up emotionally. This collection takes the two most celebrated games in the series, Silent Hill 2 and 3, and remasters them in high definition. Absolutely essential.

Siren: Blood Curse

Originally released in episodic installments, Siren: Blood Curse takes all 12 blood-curdling episodes and slaps them onto a single disc. Technically the third game in the long-running series, which began on PS2 with the criminally overlooked Siren, the latest game adopts many of the same mechanics. The most notable of which is the ability to ‘sightjack’, which not only allows  players too see through the eyes of shuffling cadavers, but also discover clues about their environment. What ensures is a tense, stealth-based romp that never fails to worm its way into your psyche. Utterly terrifying.

Condemned: Criminal Origins

Released during the early days of the Xbox 360, Condemned: Criminal Origins still holds up pretty well in the horror stakes. Following the adventures of Ethan Thomas, an investigative agent on the trail of the the Match Maker – a serial killer wreaking havoc on the fictional streets of Metro – Condemned is arguably one of the most terrifying games on console. With excellent lighting effects, innovative weapons (many of which can be ripped from the city walls, including wooden planks and drainage pipes) this deserves to be in everybody’s game library.

Left 4 Dead 2

Nothing screams “horror classic” quite like a zombie apocalypse. Indeed, it’s the premise of countless books, television shows and movies, but rarely has the imminent uprising been so believable. Much like its predecessor, Left 4 Dead 2 keeps the story relatively simple, but it’s the execution that impresses here. Environments drip with detail, gunplay is refined, and the the AI director – which governs precisely how scary the game will be – has been massively improved for sequel. Terrifying stuff.

BioShock

BioShock is possibly the most disturbing game ever made. Needless today, much of its inherent creepiness is down to the city of Rapture itself – an underwater dystopia, frozen in time, and inhabited by genetically modified freaks known only as Splicers. What’s more, the 1950s soundtrack, Art Deco hallways and leaking pipes only exacerbate the horror. Definitely one to play with the lights on, then.

Dead Island

Back in early twenty eleven, the gaming world went nuts for a single trailer advertising a video game. The game in question was Dead Island. With its mournful piano and family-centric drama, many hoped the game would break new ground in terms of cinematic spectacle. While the game, it transpired, didn’t have much to do with the trailer, Dead Island remains an thoroughly enjoyable, open-world zombie slasher. The game also features one of the best co-op modes on console, making this the perfect game to play with friends.

Looking for something scary to do this Halloween? Be sure to check out The Hut for 10% off Halloween games, or alternatively MyVoucherCodes.co.uk for all the latest gaming discounts.

Top 5 Spy Games: Become James Bond in Your Living Room

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October 23, 2012 By In Games, Lifestyle

Throw on a tuxedo, grab a martini, and practice those well-worn chat-up lines. That’s right: the brand new James Bond movie Skyfall is making its way to UK cinemas on 26 October, and we’re biting our nails in anticipation.

In fact, we’re so excited about the new movie that we’ve spent the whole week emulating the secret agent himself. Of course, there’s only so many Nerf pellets you can fire at hapless colleagues before they start to get a bit annoyed, so we’ve turned to video games instead!

Thankfully, there are dozens of spy games on console, so we’ve picked out the very best. These games are sure to get you in the mood for Skyfall, and who knows? They might improve your special agent skills along the way…

GoldenEye 007: Reloaded

Having redefined the first person shooter on N64, Rare’s 1997 masterpiece needs no introduction. Following the plot of the original game, Goldeneye 007: Reloaded reimagines the classic with slick motion controls, breathtaking visuals, and an updated multiplayer mode. The remake also does away with Pierce Brosnan, with Daniel Craig providing a much needed cool factor.

 

Metal Gear Solid: HD Collection

Metal Gear Solid protagonist Solid Snake sure knows a thing or two about stealth. Inspired by action movies like James Bond and The Great Escape, Metal Gear Solid is a cinematic tour-de-force, bolstered by some of the finest action gameplay on console. This fantastic collection bundles Metal Gear Solid: 2, Metal Gear Solid 3 and PSP-exclusive Peacewalker onto a single disc and restores them in high definition. The perfect gift.

 

Perfect Dark

Having made history with Goldeneye, Rare cemented their reputation as innovators with Perfect Dark. Very much a “last hurrah” for the withering N64 console, the game was years ahead of its time. In fact, players had to track down a memory expansion pack, which slotted into the N64′s front port, to witness the game in full glory. Now available on Xbox Live Arcade, Joanna Dark’s sci-fi shooter has been revamped with updated textures, improved audio and controls. Essential gaming.

 

Splinter Cell

Back in the early days of the Xbox, Splinter Cell (along with sci-fi shooter, Halo) was the envy of PlayStation owners everywhere. Perhaps the best looking game of its time, Splinter Cell wowed gamers with its amazing lighting effects – which not only looked the part, but allowed for stealth gameplay the likes of which we’d never seen before. Then, of course, there was Sam Fisher himself – a gruff, rational, and arguably more believable protagonist than we’d previously seen in video games. This collection takes all three Splinter Cell games, and restores them in high definition to stunning effect.

 

Alpha Protocol

When you think about it, most spies are too busy blowing things up to contemplate their actions. Not Michael Thorton, though. Alpha Protocol’s leading man, like most spies, is a dab hand at murder and espionage, but spends an awful amount of time mulling over his victims. On the surface, Alpha Protocol might look like your average, third person romp, but the game’s brilliant dialogue options have a lasting effect on the story and gameplay. It’s not perfect, but Apha Protocol is certainly worth picking up on the cheap.

If you want to release your inner spy, pick up these games at a bargain price with a little help from MyVoucherCodes.

 

From Screen to Console: The Best Video Games Based on Movies

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October 16, 2012 By In Games, Lifestyle

Hey, wait! We know what you’re thinking! Games based on movies are almost always terrible, right? Cobbled together on meagre budgets, and rushed out to coincide with the latest blockbuster, most video game tie-ins are shoddy to say the least.

Of course, there are exceptions to the rule. Indeed, over the years we’ve been treated to some absolutely brilliant gaming tie-ins, which just goes to show that when a developer has the time, money, and (more importantly) freedom to express themselves, fantastic things can happen.

So, without further ado, here’s our pick of the best games based on films…

The Chronicles of Riddick: Escape from Butcher Bay

Chunkier than Vin Diesel’s arms (seriously, what’s up with those?), Escape from Butcher Bay set the benchmark for all movie tie-ins with its blinding campaign, impressive gunplay and beautiful visuals. Based on the Chronicles of Riddick franchise, it was more than just a ‘shooty’ romp. The game boasted some pretty tense stealth sections, thanks largely to the game’s atmospheric locale – a sprawling prison, filled to the brim with maniacal murderers.

Lego Star Wars: The Complete Saga

George Lucas doesn’t give a hoot about his sci-fi masterpiece, but the talented bunch at Traveller’s Tales most certainly do. Lego Star Wars: The Complete Saga packs all six films onto one disc, and re-imagines them in building-block form. Perfect for kids and adults alike, this Star Wars collection is a genuinely amusing romp through sci-fi history.

The Warriors

Never mind that the movie is half a century old; Rockstar’s The Warriors still feels as fresh as a blood-stained daisy. This atmospheric, retro-inspired brawler takes Walter Hill’s classic movie of the same name, and delves deeper into the seedy, underground world of New York gangs. Essential gaming.

GoldenEye 007

Heralding a new wave of shooters on console, GoldenEye is frequently cited as one of the most important games ever made – and for good reason. Boasting a stupendously rich single player experience, innovative gadgets, and a breathtaking multiplayer mode,GoldenEye reinvented the first person shooter on console. Based on the 1995 James Bond film of the same name, this one’s a true classic.

Spider-Man 2

Spider-Man is no stranger to the world of video games, but this film adaptation is arguably his greatest. Taking major cues from Grand Theft Auto, this mission-based sandbox game not only captures the feel of Sam Raimi’s sequel, but stands as a fantastic game in its own right. Put simply, Spider-Man has never felt so good.

Scott Pilgrim vs the World: The Game

Based on the 2012 movie, Scott Pilgrim vs the World, this zany scrapper is surprisingly good fun. Loosely following the plot of the graphic novels, it’s up to Scott Pilgrim – along with love-interest Ramona Flowers and pals Kim Pine and Stephen Stills – to battle their way through seven, retro-inspired levels. Oh yes, and defeat Ms. Flowers’ seven evil exes along the way. The perfect game to play with your mates.

If you fancy giving these classics a go, MyVoucherCodes has all the latest gaming discounts and vouchers – so check if you can save some money before you buy.

Have a you got a favourite game that’s based on a film? Let us know in the comments below.