The cool thing about PAX is that it really is focused on gamers having fun. Hardcore or casual, PAX had something for every gamer.

Xbox 360 Kinetic and PS3 Move
Both of these additions felt more like a gimmick than an essential component in enjoying a game. Granted, Kung-Fu LIVE and Dance Central were cool, popular game series for hardcore gamers will most likely not be getting the treatment. Maybe story-driven games like Heavy Rain, but honestly it wasn’t any more enjoyable than using the original PS3 controller. We also tried out Sports Champions; basically a generic game made for the PS3 Move (much like Wii Sports). We tested this gladiator game where athletes fight against each other using a shield and a weapon. We had pretty high anticipations for the Move, but unfortunately, it just ended up feeling like a Wiimote clone.

Dungeons & Dragons Online
We stopped by this booth to check out DDO, mostly because we had no experience with it. We got a demo of the newest adventure pack update coming up in October. This will be DDO’s 7th and biggest update since the game went free-to-play. Man this update is action packed.

First and foremost, this update adds two new races: half-Elf and half-Orc, adding an all new layer of depth to class construction and building. This update also comes with an improved UI, allowing players to search through their inventory and auction house via a search box. Furthermore, DDO gets a DirectX 11 update, meaning advanced graphics and smoother animations all around.

DDO is free-to-play, and can be found at the official DDO website. If DDO is not your cup of tea, you can also try Lord of the Rings Online. They’re also free-to-play MMO from Turbine.

Less swag?
Somehow, we saw less swag. We actually tried to go around collecting swag, but it just seemed like there was less swag being given away. Of course, there were a plethora of pins, badges, stickers and other smaller paraphernalia. But it just seemed like, there just weren’t as much, shall we say, “valuable” swag, like T-shirts, hoodies, notebook, etc. We did however receive a hat from Nexon after their impressive demo of Vindictus. Sweet!

Fighting News
Two things I wanted to mention, for all you fighting fans out there!

We had the pleasure of checking out MvsC3, and it was pretty sweet. It basically plays like Tatsunoko vs Capcom. The button layout has weak, medium and strong attack buttons, an air combo launch button, and two assist buttons. I’m sure you guys have all seen the screenshots to know that the game looks sweet. Can’t wait!

The second news is not really news, but the Kingston booth had Justin Wong, the champion of several US based 2D fighting game tournaments, taking on challengers on SFIV. They were best of 5 rounds, and Justin had to change characters every time. Those who could beat him were awarded some wonderful prizes. I actually don’t remember what the prizes were because I was just staring in awe at his gameplay. When we had decided to leave, I think he had 38 consecutive wins. Amazing.

Viva PAX
While other large gaming or anime/comic conventions are becoming more public-friendly by accepting mass media contents, it’s0 refreshing to see that PAX is still holding its ground for originality and dedication towards gamers and geeks. Awesome booths, great panels, and cool card/board games that you didn’t know existed.

Long live PAX and see you next year!