Zilla Man's 3rd Annual Pre - E3 Thread

[Zilla Man]

As most of you know, it was two years ago this month that I stopped being a lurker and started posting on this site with an E3 report. At first I wasn't sure if I wanted to do it again because I'm usually very exhausted after each day's show/meeting/party.

But then I realized how much more interesting you guys at VGR have made videogaming to me. Even though I'm the one who goes to E3, reading your posts is like having it year round. :D It's been a hell of an entertaining two years and I just wanted to thank everyone (well almost everyone :mad: ) for interacting, educating, entertaining and befriending me. Gaming (and my life) just wouldn't be the same without ya....

I want to give special congratulations to Waco who's celebrating his 1st anniversary at VGR! I don't care what others say, your posts are some of the most informative I've ever read. Can't wait to read the comments/questions you've got for me to pass on to the designers/patrons this year!

And another welcome to Last Word as well. ;)

Okay, now onto business. For you newbies, it's simple. If there's a game, console, technical/creative question you have for a designer or individual, just forward it to me and I'll do my best to ask the correct person. I don't attend the pre-shows or press conferences on Monday and Tuesday. But I do go all three days to the exhibits as well as some of the pre/after parties. This is where some of the best info can be gotten so I'll also report stuff I overhear.

As a reminder, here are my closest connections: Vivendi-Universal, Activision, Midway, and Microsoft. But I'll be seeing all the companies at the show, so feel free to ask about any game or product. And don't be afraid to be controversial...

Also, I just found out yesterday that I've been invited to meet the president of Bethesda Software. Apparently my friend's father did a lot of business with the guy and asked if wanted to meet him. As excited as I am about his games, I'm actually more excited to possibly meet his wife -- Linda Carter -- aka Wonder Woman....! Sorry, guys, I couldn't resist... :o

One more thing, you may not get an answer to every question until the weekend so please be patient, okay?

To start things off, I did manage to get a small piece of gaming gossip from my friend at Vivendi. When I mentioned that I was looking forward to Half Life 2 on the Xbox, she told me not to bother. I asked her why and she said that although it was a great port, a PS3 version is in the works. According to her, the PS3 version not only looks and plays better, but there's some nifty extra content. I've also been informed that a lot of developers are shifting titles previously meant for the 360 over to the PS3, due to its power and the copmplications of developing for the 360's multiple processors. I'm curious to ask the designers at the show see if this is indeed true. I'll let ya know...

With all this, I'm also wondering if my bud running the M$ booth will be as enthusiastic this year as last year...

Well, enough of my yapping...let the questions, er, games begin!!!!! :D

[Jupiter_x]

2 questions that is all

1. In your opinion what system WOWed you the most?(This question is for after E3!)
2. How does one go about getting into E3 (I hear you need to own or work for an Electronics business or get sponsered by a company like Nintendo!)

[Mochan]

Could you ask anyone from Namco whether they intend to release Namco x Capcom in English?
And see if you can get a release date and sys requirements from anyone in Bethesda about Oblivion. And be sure not to t ask them about mounted combat.

That is all. Please!

[Pandarbock]

If you see anyone from H2O if they are even still around could you tell them to get off their asses and make a tetrisphere port for either or both DS / PSP. Or ask around and figure out who still owns the license and hound that companies ass. ;)

[ilnadmy]

Hmmm.....let's see.

1. If iNxile is at the show, could you ask them if they're working on a follow-up to The Bard's Tale?
2. Can you please check on the progress of S.T.A.L.K.E.R, and if there are any plans to make a next-gen console version of S.T.A.L.K.E.R?

Thanks a lot

[thelastword]

Thanks for the welcome Zilla, I too, have been reading these forums way beyond writing my first post here, and have been royally entertained as well. :) royally entertained, LOL!

I got two questions though;

1. What has Jason Rubin been up too since leaving Naughty Dog, and if you do see him and can slip him a question or two, could you ask of his opinion on the next gen roundup.

2.What seems new, totally exciting, and makes you believe that it will offer a truly revolutionary experience in gaming next gen.


(SIDE NOTE):Just keep on giving us the impressions of the various devs and their thoughts on the PS3, XBOX 360 and Revolution in general.

Thanks alot man....Enjoy E3....:)

[Darwin]

I would also be interested in a release date for the next Elderscrolls on Xbox360.

Thanks.

[Mochan]

Oh yeah while we're asking, indeed be sure to ask about Stalker, and then please also ask about Black and White 2. Release date would be nice! Thanks.

[trebor]

I'm sure you'll give us the low-down on what the Next-gen showings are like for Sony, Ninty, and M$, so no questions there.

I've got 3 requests...

1) What rocked YOUR socks the most this year.

2) Any Zelda news would be fab.

3) Any word on when X-Men Legends 2 will be released and for which consoles (and handhelds).

Gracias.

[The Prince of Darkness]

and surprise, surprise it has nothing to do with the 360. In fact, unless MS announces b/c, the 360 stuff will be uneventful for me this year. What a far cry from last year, huh?

What I want to know about is any info on new games for the PsP. The release list for the PsP is downright spartan right now. Not that I am complaining because the games that I bought at or near launch are just awesome and compliment each other perfectly, but we both know that won't last forever;)

[Rogue Bounty Hunter]

Uh.....I guess I would like to hear any info about a possible Gamecube price drop (or a possible Gamecube/RE4 bundle) between now (after E3) and the end of the year.

Other than that, I'll be satisfied just reading all of your impressions from E3 and the answers to the other VGR member's questions.

Thanks

[slade]

I want confirmation on whether the following pic is real:

http://www.jeux-france.com/Webmasters/Images/10editeurs20050516_054737_5_big.jpg

All right, ok not really, I just wanted to post that pic. :D

[theWacoKid]

Well, thanks for the pat on the back, zilla.

Linda Carter, eh, that woman has a nice set of lungs, er.. I meant real pretty blue eyes. I guess find out from your MS connections, what's the deal with xbox, what if any support are they going to show it.

Find out what the hell's happening with Starcraft Ghost, is this game coming out for this gen, is it moving to next gen or is it just another project that got sh&*canned.

[Brendon]

How did you get in anyway?

1) If you talk to Koanomi, ask them about any developments toward a new RocketKnight game, for this or the next Gen.

2) Ask EA about that Strike game you told me about last time, I know they're the Devil but that's the one fruit that still tempts me.

Thanks boatloads in advance.

*Edit - Ask what the HELL is wrong with Sega, Hedgehogs wiht guns is really the last straw.

[Fivespot]

Just wanted to give you props and say thanks for posting your insight and info. I appreciate you taking the time to answer questions and for posting stories, insider development info, and the other tid bits.

Have a great time at E3 for all of us Joe Gamers who aren't as fortunate to be there.

[GameLegend]

This may be a once in a million chance, but just curious, theres been some rumour and speculation if Microsoft will release a handheld, if not, is there any slight chance they will be releasing games for the DS or PSP? Halo? <---thats the only game i m thinking about playing as a handheld.

Also, is there any chance Nintendo will continue with porting Metal Gear Solid series? I know the chances are slim, just curious.

Oh, what are are the projects Rare and Silicon Knights have planned?

Thanks for taking the time to read this post, most appreiated.

[Gadfly2317]

Hey Zilla,

I know the next gen-consoles will--and should--take most of your attention. But if you spot anything interesting relating to the DS, I'd love to hear about it. I know the DS isn't your thing, but still. . .there may be something that catches your attention being shown.

thanks

[Glockstar]

It's too bad I can't trust you for a straight answer...

...otherwise I would ask if there were Nintendo fanboys crying at the conference again this year. Haw!

[T.Tashi]

How about the development of RPGS for the psp? Take your time. No worries if you can't get to it.

I work at a newspaper and because of the mailing lists I'm on I've gotten mailings on attending E3 for the past few years. I think next year, after I graduate (March 06) I may actually go. There's quite a few conferences I'd be interested in.

[Zilla Man]

Could you ask anyone from Namco whether they intend to release Namco x Capcom in English?
And see if you can get a release date and sys requirements from anyone in Bethesda about Oblivion. And be sure not to t ask them about mounted combat. Then please also ask about Black and White 2. Release date would be nice!

That is all. Please!

That's the RPG, right? I'll ask. And I'll get as much info as I can for Oblivion. I do know that it's been confirmed for all three Next Gen consoles...I'll find out about Black and White as well.

If you see anyone from H2O if they are even still around could you tell them to get off their asses and make a tetrisphere port for either or both DS / PSP. Or ask around and figure out who still owns the license and hound that companies ass.

Okay! :p

Hmmm.....let's see.
1. If iNxile is at the show, could you ask them if they're working on a follow-up to The Bard's Tale?
2. Can you please check on the progress of S.T.A.L.K.E.R, and if there are any plans to make a next-gen console version of S.T.A.L.K.E.R?
Thanks a lot

Great question, il (my favorite Philly guy). I played S.T.A.L.K.E.R last year and thought it'd be out by now! :( With the power of the Next Gen consoles a port should be inevitable. But I'll get confirmation.

1. What has Jason Rubin been up too since leaving Naughty Dog, and if you do see him and can slip him a question or two, could you ask of his opinion on the next gen roundup.

Good questions, Word. Naughty Dog has a site off the main floor (by invite only), but since Rubin is no longer with them, I'll try and find out what seminar he's at and corner him there (a common Zilla Man tactic)! I'll try and get the name of his new company (if you know what it is, let me know).

I've got 3 requests...

1) What rocked YOUR socks the most this year.

2) Any Zelda news would be fab.

3) Any word on when X-Men Legends 2 will be released and for which consoles (and handhelds).

Gracias.

Okay, buddy, got it. ;)

I guess find out from your MS connections, what's the deal with xbox, what if any support are they going to show it.

Find out what the hell's happening with Starcraft Ghost, is this game coming out for this gen, is it moving to next gen or is it just another project that got sh&*canned.

You know I'll be all over my friend about the Xbox situation. :mad: And I've seen Starcraft Ghost at every E3 since 2001! I even played it in 2002/2003. Yeah, I'll definitely find out what's up with that. Isn't EIDOS handling it now?

Uh.....I guess I would like to hear any info about a possible Gamecube price drop (or a possible Gamecube/RE4 bundle) between now (after E3) and the end of the year.

Rogue, I'll see what I can do. The thing is that Nintendo is the mopst uptight of all the companies. :mad: Besides not telling they're employess anything, I've yet to run into even a 3rd pary game designer in their booth. The one time I met a guy from Silicon Knights was in the cafeteria...

To be continued...

[Rogue Bounty Hunter]

Rogue, I'll see what I can do. The thing is that Nintendo is the mopst uptight of all the companies. :mad: Besides not telling they're employess anything, I've yet to run into even a 3rd pary game designer in their booth. The one time I met a guy from Silicon Knights was in the cafeteria...

Ok, thanks.

[Zilla Man]

How did you get in anyway?

1) If you talk to Koanomi, ask them about any developments toward a new RocketKnight game, for this or the next Gen.

2) Ask EA about that Strike game you told me about last time, I know they're the Devil but that's the one fruit that still tempts me.

Thanks boatloads in advance.

*Edit - Ask what the HELL is wrong with Sega, Hedgehogs wiht guns is really the last straw.

1) That's the one with the Possum in Armor, right? From the Genesis days! :)

2) Yeah, I remember that. You know that Mercenaries originally started out as a Strike game, don't you? Hopefully that wasn't the last one.

Just wanted to give you props and say thanks for posting your insight and info. I appreciate you taking the time to answer questions and for posting stories, insider development info, and the other tid bits. Have a great time at E3 for all of us Joe Gamers who aren't as fortunate to be there.

Thanks, Fiver. You guys make the show much more exciting than if I just went with my regular buds. :)

This may be a once in a million chance, but just curious, theres been some rumour and speculation if Microsoft will release a handheld, if not, is there any slight chance they will be releasing games for the DS or PSP? Halo? <---thats the only game i m thinking about playing as a handheld.

Also, is there any chance Nintendo will continue with porting Metal Gear Solid series? I know the chances are slim, just curious.

Oh, what are are the projects Rare and Silicon Knights have planned?

Back in 2001, my friend from M$ told me that they were planning a handheld, but decided against it. With their current situation, I think they've got their claws full. I'll see though. And I'll see about Rare and Silicon Knights if I can.

What I want to know about is any info on new games for the PsP. The release list for the PsP is downright spartan right now. Not that I am complaining because the games that I bought at or near launch are just awesome and compliment each other perfectly, but we both know that won't last forever

How about the development of RPGS for the psp? Take your time. No worries if you can't get to it.

if you spot anything interesting relating to the DS, I'd love to hear about it. I know the DS isn't your thing, but still. . .there may be something that catches your attention being shown. thanks

Guys, because of their popularity I'll be spending EXTRA TIME playing the portables this year!

And, Gaddy, I'll definitely check out as muchg as I can for the DS. Something tells me the console stuff will be pretty boring and the portables are where it's at. Also, I'm going to try and get you and Trebor Cube and DS catalogs. Nintendo usually has the best ones at the show. If there's a specific DS game you want impressions of just let me know... :cool:

1. In your opinion what system WOWed you the most?(This question is for after E3!)
2. How does one go about getting into E3 (I hear you need to own or work for an Electronics business or get sponsered by a company like Nintendo!)

Thanks, Jupiter. I'll answer your questions towards the end of the show.

Guys, these are great. Just keep 'em coming if you've got any more. :cool:

BTW, I'll be attending a party at Midway Thurdsay night. So if you've got any questions comments about games by that company, please post them.

[Zilla Man]

It's too bad I can't trust you for a straight answer...

...otherwise I would ask if there were Nintendo fanboys crying at the conference again this year. Haw!

Yeah, too bad, Clucky. Cause then I could tell you about all the 360 fanboys I saw crying after the M$ conference...

[Cuddly Knife]

Well, I'd like to know about A Boy and His Blob that's supposed to be coming out on the DS.

Anything about the Gizmondo that's interesting?

I also read about Jack Wall(composer for games like Splinter Cell: PT, Myst 3, and Jade Empire) doing a tour in the US for video game music. Can you find out anything about that? It's probably not even a mention...

[Mochan]

Thanks Zilla! I'm looking forward to any news about Namco x Capcom, Stalker and Black and White 2!

[ilnadmy]

Yeah, go Philly!

Thanks Zilla Man.....lookin forward to your inxile and STALKER info.

[Rogue Bounty Hunter]

BTW, I'll be attending a party at Midway Thurdsay night. So if you've got any questions comments about games by that company, please post them.

Midway, huh? If there's a chance you can get a hold of Mortal Kombat Shaolin Monks, I would be glad to hear your impressions of the game, especially about the game's animation. MK: Deception's animation was horrible, and if Shaolin Monks is the same, then I'm passing on the title.

[GameLegend]

Thanks Zilla, and dont forget to have fun at E3.

[Gadfly2317]

Guys, because of their popularity I'll be spending EXTRA TIME playing the portables this year!

And, Gaddy, I'll definitely check out as muchg as I can for the DS. Something tells me the console stuff will be pretty boring and the portables are where it's at. Also, I'm going to try and get you and Trebor Cube and DS catalogs. Nintendo usually has the best ones at the show. If there's a specific DS game you want impressions of just let me know... .

The ONLY GC game I want to hear from you about is Odama; I just saw that Nintendo is supposed to be showing it again.

As for the DS, they are supposedly showing that new Super Mario Bros game which I'm more curious about than interested in. I really want to know what the hell Electroplankton is.

Regarding Animal Crossing and Advance Wars, not terribly interested because I'm certain to buy them no matter what.

Thanks for being out there again, and I'd be glad to get one of those DS catalogs!

[thelastword]

Good questions, Word. Naughty Dog has a site off the main floor (by invite only), but since Rubin is no longer with them, I'll try and find out what seminar he's at and corner him there (a common Zilla Man tactic)! I'll try and get the name of his new company (if you know what it is, let me know).


Well did'nt get anything on his new company, but I know you'll try your best...that should be good enough for me..:)

[trebor]

And, Gaddy, I'll definitely check out as muchg as I can for the DS. Something tells me the console stuff will be pretty boring and the portables are where it's at. Also, I'm going to try and get you and Trebor Cube and DS catalogs. Nintendo usually has the best ones at the show. If there's a specific DS game you want impressions of just let me know... :cool:


That would be very cool, thanks.

Also, here is a good quote for your signature if you feel like updating it...

"I've waited a long time for this, my little green friend" ;)

[Mochan]

By the way, Zilla Man, could you also check with Atari/DeepShadow if Boiling Point will be coming out on time? I think it's due for May 24.

[trebor]

"I've waited a long time for this, my little green friend..." Palpatine to Yoda -- Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith
PS3 to Xbox 360 -- E3 2005


lol :D

[theWacoKid]

Yeah, go Philly!

Thanks Zilla Man.....lookin forward to your inxile and STALKER info.

You won't be getting much Stalker info, it was a no-show at E3.