The disappearance of skill in games

Getting into gaming isn't easy. The always-growing lingo and concepts -- from friend codes to headshots -- are sometimes indecipherable to others. The games offered in mainstream commercial channels are not always inclusive, in that they are largely made by homogeneous groups of developers and marketed toward a specific demographic of users.

Most games also require a certain degree of hand-eye coordination, manual dexterity and reflexes -- skills that are developed over time in an effort to overcome a game's challenge. Challenge as a barrier of entry is one that 'hardcore gamers' cling the most closely to. As far as the hardcore gamer is concerned, games are all about proving ourselves and overcoming challenge. Achievements, scores, and the popularity of multiplayer modes show that having the opportunity to master and display skill... (Continue Reading...)

Tales of Graces F coming to North America and Europe in 2012

During Namco Bandai's "Level Up Dubai 2011" press event last night, the publisher announced some welcome news for the very patient Tales fans in Europe: The PS3 version of Tales of Graces F will be released in that region. Community manager Rich Bantegui live-tweeted news from the event, revealing that the "mothership" Tales RPG will be out in Europe in 2012. In addition, the newly opened page for the game on the company's North American site shows a 2012 date.

Bantegui also confirmed reports that the 3DS remake of Tales of the Abyss would be released in Europe, though no date was provided.Gallery: Tales of Graces F (PS3)

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