Video Game New Releases

Hello and Welcome to Parents Guide 2 Games. Here are the games coming out the week of Novemeber 28th 2017.

Black Mirror

(PS4, Xbox One, PC)

Rating: Mature

Content Descriptors: Blood, Violence

This is an adventure game in which players help a man uncover the circumstances of his father's untimely death. Set in 1920s Scotland, the game allows players to explore a castle, search for clues, and interact with characters and supernatural beings. Some interactions can lead to instances of violence: characters choked to death; a man impaled in the stomach; a man stabbed in the neck. Large blood stains are depicted on the walls and floors in some areas and on characters' bodies. In one sequence, a bound man is stabbed in the heart at an altar, causing blood to flow and pool underneath; another sequence depicts a corpse slumped over a large bowl of animal blood.

Resident Evil Revelations Collection

(Switch)

Rating: Mature

Content Descriptors: Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Language

This is a third-person shooter in which players assume the role of two counter-terrorism operatives attempting to stop a bio-terrorist plot. Players use handguns, rifles, machine guns, and knives to kill hordes of zombies and mutated creatures. Battles are highlighted by screams of pain and realistic gunfire; enemies often dissolve into pools of blood and chunks of flesh when killed. Blood-splatter effects occur frequently when humans or zombies are attacked, and some characters are depicted with exposed organs/viscera. In one level, a human character is seen getting thrown into a glass partition, resulting in a large splatter of blood. Swear words appear in the dialogue.

Doom VFR

(PSVR, Vive)

Rating: Mature

Content Descriptors: Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Strong Language

This is a VR first-person shooter in which players assume the role of a marine on a mission to stop a demonic invasion on Mars. Players use pistols, shotguns, laser blasters, and machine guns to kill mutant enemies and demonic creatures. Large blood-splatter effects occur frequently as enemies are decapitated or dismembered during combat; a handful of sequences depict mutilated corpses with exposed bones/organs. Combat is frenetic, highlighted by cries of pain, explosions, and gunfire. Swear words appear in the dialogue.

Gear.Club Unlimited 

(Switch)

Rating: Everyone

This is a racing simulation game in which players must win a series of championship races in several international zones/environments. Players can customize their cars and participate in a variety of race events in order to earn experience points and unlock other features of the game.

Xenoblade Chronicles 2

(Switch)

Rating: Teen

Content Descriptors: Language, Suggestive Themes, Use of Alcohol, Violence

This is a role-playing game in which players lead characters on missions to save the human race. As players explore a hostile alien planet, they interact with characters, complete mission objectives, and engage in combat against aliens and human-like creatures. Players use lasers, energy weapons, giant mechanized suits, and swords to kill enemies. Battles are frenetic and often accompanied by slashing sounds, realistic gunfire, and large explosions. Cutscenes depict additional acts of violence: characters executed/shot off-screen; creatures impaled with swords on-screen, resulting in black blood-splatter effects. The game contains some suggestive material: female characters in revealing outfits; lingering camera angles on characters' breasts/buttocks; dialogue. During the course of the game, characters are sometimes depicted drunk; in one mission, players can build affinity with other characters by ordering them drinks or consuming alcohol. Swear words heard in dialogue.

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Video Game New Releases November 21st 2017

Hello and Welcome to Parents Guide 2 Games. Here are the games coming out the week of Novemeber 21^st 2017.

Rime

(Switch)

Rating: Everyone 10 an up

Content Descriptors: Fantasy Violence

This is a puzzle-adventure game in which players assume the role of a young boy stranded in the ruins of a mysterious island. As players traverse platform environments and search for clues, they must solve puzzles in order to progress. Several areas contain ghoul-like enemies that siphon energy from the player's character and must be defeated with beams of light. Some sequences contain thematic elements and additional acts of violence: a character falling from a boat in a storm; a creature struck by lightning.

Tiny Metal 

(PS4, Switch, PC)

A turn-based strategy game of intrigue with a distinct Japanese flavor that takes place in the aftermath of your king's assassination. Roll out the tanks, create more troops, expand your squad, and struggle for territory with war-room levels of control!

Play as Artemisian Lieutenant, Nathan Gries, as he commands his units to victory against the villainous nation of Zipang.

There will be several friends and enemies along the way with varied factions, units, and abilities in the 20 hours of single player campaign gameplay. Players will have to carefully consider varying terrain, positioning for attacks, and strategic advancements and defenses. 

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Video Game New Releases November 14th 2017

Hello and Welcome to Parents Guide 2 Games. Here are the games coming out the week of Novemeber 14^th 2017.

Lego Marvel Super Heroes 2 

(PS4, Xbox One, PC)

Rating: Everyone 10 and up

Content Descriptors: Cartoon Violence

This is an action-adventure game in which players control Lego-versions of Marvel superheroes as they attempt to stop a time-traveling villain. Players punch, kick, and use an assortment of weapons to defeat enemy villains and time-displaced minions in frenetic melee-style combat. Players also use various abilitie to defeat enemies. Battles are frenetic with large explosions, realistic gunfire, and cries of pain; characters burst into "cartoony" Lego pieces when defeated. During some sequences, players can mount and fire projectiles from turrets to destroy enemy vehicles. 

Demon Gaze II

(PS4, Vita)

Rating: Teen

Content Descriptors: Blood, Fantasy Violence, Mild Language, Partial Nudity, Suggestive Themes, Use of Alcohol

This is a role-playing game in which players help members of a resistance group overthrow a demonic tyrant. As players explore maze-like dungeons, they interact with characters and engage in turn-based combat against fantastical creatures. Players select various attacks and magic spells from a menu-screen to inflict damage and kill enemy creatures; slashing/impact sounds, bursts of light, and cries of pain accompany the combat. Some still-image sequences depict blood stains on walls, floors, and characters' clothing. The game contains some suggestive material in the dialogue. Some still images depict topless female characters with strands of hair barely covering their breasts; female monsters are occasionally shown with exposed buttocks. During the course of the game, players can encounter drunken characters with slurred speech and dialogue. Swear words appear in dialogue.

Pokémon Ultra Sun/Ultra Moon

(3DS)

Rating: Everyone

Content Descriptors: Mild Cartoon Violence

This is a role-playing game in which players assume the role of a young Pokemon trainer battling rival teams in an attempt to become champion. Players explore areas and search for wild Pokemon to capture and train. Combat is turn-based, as players take turns selecting attack moves from a menu. When Pokemon are hit by a move, they will wince or flash to indicate damage.

Star Wars Battlefront II 

(PS4, Xbox One, PC)

Rating: Teen

Content Descriptors: Mild Language, Violence

This is a first/third-person shooter set within the events of the Star Wars saga. Players select between one of two opposing factions (Rebels and Imperials) battling for control throughout different worlds. Players use blasters, pulse cannons, rocket launchers, and thermal detonators to defeat enemy soldiers and armored vehicles. Battles are frenetic and accompanied by large explosions, laser-fire effects, and cries of pain. In some game modes, players pilot/ride a variety of vehicles and use lasers/missiles to defeat enemies. One character performs a Force Choke against soldiers, temporarily lifting them off the ground as they react with a choking-like gesture.

Battle Chef Brigade

(Switch, PC)

Rating: Everyone 10 and up

Content Descriptors: Alcohol and Tobacco Use, Fantasy Violence

In the fantasy realm of Victusia, the members of the elite Battle Chef Brigade are revered for their ability to skillfully take down monsters and transform their kills into delicious cuisine! But getting in isn't easy; chefs from across Victusia must vie for their spot in a high stakes competition. Follow two contestants, Mina and Thrash, as their journeys through the tournament unfold. In order to become a Brigadier you'll need to hunt monsters with combo-based attacks and prepare your freshly caught ingredients in puzzle-based cooking challenges to serve up winning dishes to the judges – all while the round clock ticks down.

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Video Game New Releases November 7th 2017

Hello and Welcome to Parents Guide 2 Games. Here are the games coming out the week of November 7^th 2017.

Sonic Forces

(PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PC)

Rating: Everyone 10 and up

Content Descriptors: Fantasy Violence

This is an adventure platformer in which players help Sonic and his friend defeat Dr. Eggman and his evil plans. As players speed through different landscapes, they collect items (e.g., gold rings), avoid hazards, and use spin attacks to defeat robotic foes and bosses. Players can also use a created character to fire grappling hooks and other cartoony weapons (e.g., fire blasters, electric whip) to defeat enemies. During some boss encounters, players can perform close-up finishing blows that knock opponents out in dramatic fashion.

Super Lucky's Tale

(Xbox One, PC)

Rating: Everyone

Content Descriptors: Mild Cartoon Violence

A delightful, playground platformer for all ages that follows Lucky, the ever-optimistic, energetic, and lovable hero, on his quest to find his inner strength and help his sister rescue the Book of Ages from Jinx. Jinx is the scheming and mysterious villain trying to reshape the world, but for what reason?

Mario Party: The Top 100

(3DS)

Rating: Everyone

Content Descriptors: Mild Cartoon Violence

Ever partied with Mario? Stuffed mouthfuls of pizza? Dodged penguins? Well, the party is back with the top 100 minigames in Mario Party series history! Test your memory, speed, and luck in a variety of game modes. With Download Play, up to 4 players can party on their own system with just 1 Game Card! No matter how you cut it, this couch co-op is a riot! Snip may need to cut Clip into a needle to pop balloons or maybe you'll have to team up to form a squawking, egg-laying bird! Prove you're a cut above the rest in Blitz mode, where 2-4 players* can compete in a series of puzzlingly action-packed challenges. Make it a party with Party mode, where up to four players can team up to solve fun puzzles.

Need for Speed Payback

(PS4, Xbox One, PC)

Rating: Teen

Set in the underworld of Fortune Valley, you and your crew are reunited by a search for vengeance against The House, a nefarious cartel that rules the city's casinos, criminals, and cops. Play a variety of challenges and events as Tyler, the Racer; Mac, the Showman; and Jess, the Wheelman. Each driver must take on races, missions, and challenges to earn the respect of the Valley's underground and compete in the ultimate race to finally take down The House. Your car is at the center of everything you do. Craft unique rides with deeper performance and visual customization than ever before. Push them to the limit when you narrowly escape the heat in epic police chases. Go head-to-head with other racers on- or off-road through canyons, deserts, mountains, and the city. Raise the stakes by putting down additional in-game currency on events, challenges and missions to multiply your winnings, or risk losing it all. For ultimate bragging rights, connect via Autolog recommendations and compete with your friends and - for the first time - with potential rivals.

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Loot Boxes: What are they and is it a form of gambling?

Hello and Welcome to Parents Guide 2 Games. We will be taking a look at items in games called Loot Boxes. We will try to help you understand them better and give you some info on if this gambling. 

What are loot boxes?

This is a box you are rewarded for leveling up in a game, playing different modes or paying for with real money. They are like packs of baseball cards, random items you get in a pack.

How long have Loot Boxes been around?

From all the research I could find it start with a Massive Multi player Online (MMO) ZT Online around 2006 or 2007.

What types of games use Loot Boxes?

They are in all types of games they span a lot of different types games. From shooters like Overwatch and CS:GO to card games Hearthstone and Gwent.

We will take a look at Overwatch and its loot box system for reference. You get different items in game like new character skins, sprays, player icons, emotes, sprays, voice lines, victory poses, highlight intros or credits (used to buy any of the specific items listed before). We are using Overwatch because of it popularity and access to information. Here is a list of the prices for Loot Boxes in game and in different currencies.

All items the same?

In the game of Overwatch, there are different levels for items are Common (grey), Rare (blue), Epic (purple), Legendary (gold). On March 23, 2017 Blizzard published the official probability for loot box items: One rare item or higher is included in every box, Epic item average once every 5.5 loot boxes and Legendary items on average every 13.5 boxes. http://ow.blizzard.cn/article/news/486  ( the link is in Chinese as the government has laws saying games must post drop rates for loot boxes)

But what if you get the same items twice?

That is where the credits come in to play for every item you get a duplicate item you receive credits and that breaks down as common items you get 5 credits, rare items get 15 credits, epic gets 50 credits and Legendary gets 200 credits. So you rewarded for getting the same item twice.

Won't you get every item in game after a while?

No, Most games like Overwatch add new characters and do special events during the year. So far in Overwatch they have added 4 characters to the game and has had 8 special events with there own set of loot boxes and items you can only get while the event is going on. For each event 60-134 items are available during event. They are unlocked with loot boxes or using credits. Special event items cost more with credits then non event items do. Events in Overwatch are normally 3 weeks long. You can purchase the event loot boxes during this 3 weeks. The cost is same for this boxes if you purchase them. One item from the event will be in a loot box during the event and the percentages stay the same for each level of item during the event.

Is this a form of gambling?

In my opinion I say it a solid maybe. As you can get loot boxes for in game play it would be very hard to play and get every item for loot boxes by this way alone especially during special events. I have never bought any loot boxes myself. I know people who have and watched YouTube videos of people buying them and showing everyone what they got.

What does the ESRB say about loot boxes?

In and email to Kotaku, an ESRB spokesperson in an email said, "ESRB does not consider loot boxes to be gambling, While there’s an element of chance in these mechanics, the player is always guaranteed to receive in-game content (even if the player unfortunately receives something they don’t want). We think of it as a similar principle to collectible card games: Sometimes you’ll open a pack and get a brand new holographic card you’ve had your eye on for a while. But other times you’ll end up with a pack of cards you already have."

Article https://kotaku.com/esrb-says-it-doesnt-see-loot-boxes-as-gambling-1819363091

What do Gambling Experts say?

In and Interview with Pcgamer, Dr. Luke Clark, director at the Center for Gambling Research at the University of British Columbia says, "The player is basically working for reward by making a series of responses, but the rewards are delivered unpredictably, We know that the dopamine system, which is targeted by drugs of abuse, is also very interested in unpredictable rewards. Dopamine cells are most active when there is maximum uncertainty, and the dopamine system responds more to an uncertain reward than the same reward delivered on a predictable basis." "Modern video games then amplify this idea by having many overlapping variable ratio schedules," says Clark. "You're trying to level up, advance your avatar, get rare add-ons, build up game currency, all at the same time. What this means is that there is a regular trickle of some kind of reinforcement."

article

http://www.pcgamer.com/behind-the-addictive-psychology-and-seductive-art-of-loot-boxes/

In the end it is the players choice to buy loot boxes or not. In most games the items in loot boxes don't give you any help or advantage. It just makes the game characters look or act different from the stock game.

What are you opinions on Loot Boxes? Have you kids bothered you for money so they can get some Loot Boxes or Packs for their favorite game? Let us know

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