DIGITAL EDITION
July/August 2016 $6.99 USA $8.99 CANADA
© 2016 The LEGO Group. STAR WARS © & ™ Lucasfilm Ltd. ™ & © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s16)
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Our Mission Statement
Little Player Magazine’s mission is to provide a safe, fun and advertising-free reading experience that parents can feel good about giving to their kids. We also want to inspire and teach kids to make good gaming choices and play what is appropriate for their age group. We only cover and review games that are rated EC, E, and E10+ to ensure that young children are not exposed to content meant for teens or mature audiences. 2 Little Player Magazine DIGITAL EDITION
little player
TM
The importance of “playing” with technology! A long time ago… when I was much younger, something new and exciting happened to the world of entertainment. Video games became a part of life for millions of young people. Some might even say they became a way of life. Not only were we watching stories and adventures unfoldwe were participating in them and interacting with the images on the screen. Flash forward to 2016… The advances in technology have made video games even more engaging and exciting. Young players are becoming familiar with technology as a whole, and their knowledge and experience has in some cases surpassed the previous few generations. Being able to interact with multiple operating systems as well as navigate the GUI (Graphic User Interface) in their favorite games has quite a few long-term benefits. I know some adults who still fumble through touchscreen menus on Android or iOS while using their smartphones or tablets. I know even more young players, some as young as five, who are using and even mastering this same technology. Why is this good? The next generation of players will become the next generation of workers and they will not fear technology in any way. They might even become content creators and bring their own stories and ideas to life someday. While setting limits is healthy and can curb overuse... the next time you worry your child may be playing too much or involved in too much screen time, think of it as an investment in their future.
Martin Alessi Publisher / EIC
Video Game Magazine for Kids A Massive Impact, Inc. Periodical
July/August 2016, Issue 2 1st Printing
Publishers Martin Alessi & Shelly Alessi Editor-in-Chief Martin Alessi Senior Editors Jason Kaplan Tim Wilkus Associate Editor Nathan Alessi Junior Editors Bridget Bonner Isabella Ocampo Brody Patterson Contributing Editors Jerry Bonner Rob Strangman Copy Editors Shelly Alessi Jenny Kaplan Industry Correspondant Patrick Scott Patterson Art Director / 3D Artist Allen Forbes Illustration Artist Thor Thorvaldson Video Capture Technician Pete Hahn Creative Consultant David Ray Siller Legal Counsel Erich G. Monzon
__________________________ © Copyright 2016, Massive Impact, Inc. All rights reserved. Little Player is published bi-monthly by Massive Impact, Inc., P.O. Box 512, Wheeling IL 60090. Subscriptions are 6 issues for $24.99. Please allow 6-8 weeks before receiving your first issue as well as any subscription changes on an existing account. Little Player is a registered trademark of Massive Impact, Inc. No part of this publication may be reproduced or distributed in any form or by any means without express written permission of Massive Impact, Inc. Trademark and copyright for all other products and characters contained therein are owned by the respective trademark and copyright owners. For permisson to reuse material from our publication or to use our logo contact martin@littleplayermag.com.
SUBSCRIPTIONS
Little Player is published bi-monthly. Domestic rate is $24.99 for 6 issues. NEW SUBS: www.shoplittleplayer.com Subscription Inquiries: 312-574-0499 subs@littleplayermag.com Please send letters and artwork to: letters@littleplayermag.com or Little Player Magazine P.O. Box 512 Wheeling IL 60090 Little Player Magazine 3
DIGITAL EDITION
FEATURE STORY
Publisher: Warner Bros. Interactive Ent. Developer: TT Games Systems: PS4, X1, Wii U, PS3, X360, 3DS, Vita Players: 1 or 2 players Release Date: June 28, 2016 ESRB Rating: E10+ Content Descriptors: Cartoon Violence, Comic Mischief
The Force is Strong with this One! By Tim Wilkus
Take control of fan favorite BB-8 in special missions throughout the game!
Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens is an all-new adventure game coming to consoles this summer featuring all your favorite characters from the franchise, both new and old. Characters such as Rey, Finn, Poe Dameron, Kylo Ren, General Hux, and Captain Phasma as well as classics like Chewbacca, Han Solo, and C3P0, will all make an appearance. New fan favorite BB-8 will also assist and use its skills to help out in battle too. The game will feature over 50 characters from the light side and the dark side. The current gen hardware has now allowed the developers to incorporate a great deal of detail throughout each level. You will see Stormtroopers in the distance, Ewoks swooping down from trees, and laser fire from all around. The Lego Star Wars universe has never looked this good.
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Fight back against Kylo Ren and First Order!
Your adventure will take you all over the galaxy to places like the Resistance Base on Jakku, Maz Kanata’s Castle, and the Starkiller Base. Many of these places were absent in the movie or are played from different parts of the planet not seen in the film. Not only will you be playing these levels from different character perspectives, but they will also fill in gaps from the storyline that left the audience wondering. How did Han Solo and Chewbacca end up with the Rathtars? Players will get to experience the hunting mission on the Rathtars’ home planet and find out. These storylines are opened up by giving away the gold bricks you have collected in the main story missions to characters you will bump into along the way. Hardcore Star Wars fans will appreciate that these are not just generic characters thrown in. They will have actual voice work recorded by the actors and actresses themselves.
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Features your favorite characters from the movie!
Rey
Finn
BB-8
Han Solo
Kylo Ren
Chewbacca
Poe Dameron
C3PO
Captain Phasma
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Experience new adventures in exclusive special missions! The new adventures we can confirm are: Rathtar Hunting featuring Han Solo, Chewbacca, and their crew. Poe to the Rescue in which Poe, C3PO and BB-8 attempt to rescue Admiral Akbar. Crimson Corsair where we get some background information on him and his sidekick Takadana who trade work for travel to the outer rim. Trouble Over Taul which explains how C3PO gets his red arm. Lor San Tekka’s Return where we find out who he really is. Ottegan Assault where you are searching for Lor San Tekka. It is important to point out that all these missions take place before the start of the movie. They are there to show us how the characters from the movie ended up where they are. New gameplay features are also being introduced into the series for the first time such as cover-based gunplay. Characters will now be able to take cover during battle and pop up to take a few shots when it is safe. The developer assures us that this new battle feature will stay kid-friendly. Headshots will be highlighted with funny animations, not with gore. Controls have also been expanded with two buttons: a melee button and a ranged button, along with a combo meter and a finishing move which allows you to take out tougher enemies instantly.
Play as your favorite heroes!
BB-8
Finn
Poe
Rey Little Player Magazine 7 DIGITAL EDITION
Pilot some of the biggest and best ships in the galaxy!
Millennium Falcon
TIE-Fighter
As you play as various heroes of the galaxy you will be able to take control of some of the biggest and best ships like the Millennium Falcon, X-Wing Fighter, TIE-Fighter, Strus Clan Speeder, Assault Walker, Naboo Starfighter, Star Scavenger, Ghost, and the Republic Gunship! Players will experience iconic blaster battles and flight sections with close camera angles to produce a cinematic viewpoint. The flying sections will encourage exploration with power-ups being rewarded to players for their efforts. You might even need assistance from BB-8’s charge cable to power up devices.
X-Wing Fighter 8 Little Player Magazine DIGITAL EDITION
Help Han Solo and Chewbacca hunt down and capture the dangerous and scary creatures known as Rathtars!
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Build weapons, vehicles and so much more!
Poe creates a robot that digs beneath the ground and can get behind the Stormtrooper’s shields!
You can even create distractions such as a popcorn machine! Did you know Stormtroopers love popcorn?
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Beware of the enemy! They are much smarter than you think!
The enemy is smarter this time around. Just like you, enemies can now build. An example of this is providing cover and protection for its allies. Battles are also not just about shooting. There are puzzle elements as well. You’ll scan enemies for weaknesses to plan your battle strategy. An all-new feature of Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens is the introduction of multi-builds. These allow you to open up new paths on your journey and then break them down and rebuild them to open up a new path to continue forward. Some will be optional, while others will be puzzle-based and thought out before progress can be made. Additional content will also be available for purchase. These include a Jedi Character Pack and the Freemaker Adventure Character Pack. These packs will open up additional characters from Star Wars Episode 1-3 and the Disney XD animated series. Don’t forget the Season Pass which features more levels and characters. Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens is available on PS4, Xbox One, Wii U, 3DS, PS Vita, PS3, Xbox 360, and PC. Little Player Magazine 11 DIGITAL EDITION
PREVIEW
Publisher: Nintendo Developer: Intelligent Systems Systems: Wii U Players: Single-player Release Date: October 7, 2016 ESRB Rating: Pending Content Descriptors: To Be Announced
A colorful new adventure By Jason Kaplan unfolds for Mario! Paper Mario: Color Splash will be the first game in the series to be on the Wii U. From what we’ve seen so far, it’s looking similar to Paper Mario: Sticker Star on the 3DS. In Color Splash, Mario, Toad and Princess Peach must help the inhabitants of Prism Island where all the color is being drained. Fortunately, you’re not going to stand by without doing anything. With the help of the paint hammer you’re going to bring all the colors back to Prism Island. Anything you hit in the game with the hammer will color it with paint. Doing that will bring the island back to life! That even goes for the random Toads you’ll find. Hit them with the hammer to color them in and wake them back up!
Mario can use his Paint Hammer to bring color back to objects or characters on Prism Island.
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Team up with Mario, Princess Peach and Toad on Prism Island!
There are many worlds to explore and paint! Mario, Peach and Toad have a big adventure ahead of them... and so do you! As you progress the map becomes more colorful and you will earn better power-ups and abilities to use in the levels to come. There are many secrets to discover and plenty of challenges await you.
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Restore color to the world and save the day!
You’re also rewarded for coloring the world in. That’s one of the ways you’ll find coins and items that you’ll surely need on your journey. Battles will follow this same idea of coloring things in with paint, but with a twist.
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Collect cards to unlock special weapons and abilities!
Color in your cards and use them in battle! You’ll have access to different cards which you’re going to have to paint before you can use. There will even be special cards with their own unique abilities. Those abilities are going to be very powerful. To actually use these cards in battles, you’ll have to flick them from the screen on your gamepad towards your television.
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PREVIEW
Publisher: Nintendo Developer: HAL Laboratory Systems: 3DS Players: Single-player, Multi-player Release Date: June 10, 2016 ESRB Rating: E Content Descriptors: Mild Cartoon Violence
Kirby’s back in a robotic By Jason Kaplan new adventure! There’s a lot going on in the new Kirby: Planet Robobot 3DS game. In this new adventure you’re trying to save a planet from an evil corporation. You’ll be able to run around in the foreground and background of the levels and you’ll need to do so you can get by all the traps, obstacles, and enemies. Just like in the other Kirby games, you’ll be able to copy the abilities of the enemies you come across to use against them. This time you get the cool Robobot Armor. Like Kirby, it can copy the abilities of your enemies making you nearly unstoppable! If you get the new amiibo’s from the Kirby series we covered last issue, you’ll unlock their costumes for Kirby to wear. In addition to all that there’s a few new game modes too including, time attack, boss rush, and even a co-op RPG!
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Kirby can get the new Robobot Armor and become nearly invincible!
Fight huge bosses that fill the screen!
Power up with the Robobot Armor and defeat the enemy!
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PREVIEW
Publisher: Sega Developer: Sanzaru Games Systems: 3DS Players: Single-player, Multiplayer Release Date: September 27,2016 ESRB Rating: E Content Descriptors: Mild Cartoon Violence
Sonic and the team are back with new powers!
By Tim Wilkus
Sonic is back again and better than ever in an all-new adventure titled Sonic Boom: Fire and Ice. You’ll be able to control Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, Sticks, and Amy as you once again try to stop Dr. Eggman. However, Dr. Eggman is not working alone this time. A new enemy by the name of D-Fekt will try and stop you as well! You will not only have the power of fire and ice on your side this time around but also Sonic’s speed, Tails’ ability to fly, the Strength of Knuckles, Stick’s boomerang, and of course Amy’s hammer.
Amy is the newest character of the bunch. She has a powerful hammer as her main weapon!
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Gameplay will take place over a number of islands each with its own boss and enemies that must be taken down in order to advance. Once this is done, our brave friends will face off with Dr. Eggman on the island of Ragna Rock. Who will come out on top? We will have to wait and find out until this fall when the game is scheduled to release on September 27, 2016. Other game highlights include two-player bot racing, huge bosses that will take up both screens, and mini-games with challenging puzzles.
Fight huge boss enemies that fill up both screens! Watch out for the incredible 2-screen boss battles that await Sonic and his allies. Dr. Eggman and D-Fekt have brought out the big guns and this time it will be a real challenge!
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BLAST.FROM.THE.PAST! Publisher: LucasArts Developer: Sculptured Software Systems: Super NES Players: Single-Player Release Date: November 1, 1992 ESRB Rating: E Content Descriptors: N/A
The Force Will Be With You... Always
By Rob Strangman
Have you ever wanted to step into the boots of Luke Skywalker, use a lightsaber and fight the evil Empire? In Super Star Wars, you can! Fight your way from Tatooine to the Death Star as Imperial Stormtroopers try to stop you from rescuing Princess Leia and getting the Death Star plans to the Rebels. Once you meet Han Solo and Chewbacca, you’re able to play as them too. In special 3D scenes, you pilot Luke’s trusty old landspeeder, and later on, you take control of Luke’s X-Wing Fighter and attack the Death Star. But watch out as you fly down the trench – Darth Vader is waiting for you in his TIE Fighter! Best of all, the fun doesn’t end with Super Star Wars the adventure continues in Super Empire Strikes Back and Super Return of the Jedi! 20 Little Player Magazine DIGITAL EDITION
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E3 2016 PREVIEW Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
System: Wii U, NX Publisher: Nintendo Developer: Nintendo Players: Single-player Release Date: 2017
Are you excited? You should be! This is like no other Zelda game you’ve ever played before. Other games in the series have had large worlds to explore but none were anywhere close to being this large or this wide open. It’s twelve times larger in size than Twilight Princess! Link can now climb just about anything you’ll come across during the game which is a first for the series. With that ability, you can travel to more places in Hyrule. Link can also make new paths with items you’ll acquire, like chopping a tree down with an axe to make a bridge. You can even interact with the environment now. You can push boulders down mountains to crush your enemies and even set fields of grass on fire to startle other enemies so you can defeat them or sneak by them. Your gear is very important too since some of it will give you special powers like being stealthier or faster. Not only that, but Link will have the ability to make potions and elixirs to aid him on his quest. And if you needed more help the previously released Wolf Link amiibo can be used once a day to give you a wolf companion. 22 Little Player Magazine DIGITAL EDITION
E3 2016 PREVIEW Pokemon: Sun & Pokemon: Moon
System: 3DS Publisher: The Pokemon Company Developer: Game Freak Players: Single-player, Multiplayer Release Date: November 18, 2016
Solgaleo (psychic/steel type) and Lunala (psychic/ ghost type) are the two new legendary Pokemon in Sun and Moon. This game takes place in the Alola Region and you get to choose between three all new starter Pokemon. Rowlet (grass/flying type), Litten (fire type), and Popplio (water type). The Alola Region is made up of four tropical islands and one artificial one with many never seen before Pokemon. Sun and Moon also have a QR scanner function that will let you scan QR codes to see information about different Pokemon, such as their habitat. You can also use the QR codes to register all of your Pokemon to your Pokedex and even find out where they live!
Solgaleo
Lunala
Litten
Possibly the biggest news from Sun and Moon is the new multiplayer mode called Battle Royal. Instead of just battling one-on-one now you’re battle three other trainers at the same time!
Popplio
Rowlet Little Player Magazine 23
DIGITAL EDITION
E3 2016 PREVIEW Harvest Moon: Skytree Village System: 3DS Publisher: Marvelous Entertainment Developer: Natsume Players: Single-player Release Date: TBA
Harvest Moon Skytree Village is the next installment in the series. It’s being developed for the Nintendo 3DS. The Skytree Village used to be full of life and beautiful greenery, but things have changed. The Harvest Goddess’ power has weakened over time and the village has become dry. It will be up to you to revive the seven Skytrees and help the Harvest Goddess regain her powers and bring life back into the land.
Runbow Pocket System: 3DS Publisher: 13AM Games Developer: 13AM Games Players: Single-player, Multiplayer Release Date: Fall 2016
One of the Wii U’s better and unfortunately overlooked games is coming to 3DS with a new name, Runbow Pocket! You get over 140 challenges in single player mode. There’s still multiplayer in here and it’s still supports up to nine players at a time! The menus are navigable with the touch screen now and a lot of the clutter in the HUD has been moved to the bottom screen. Shantae from Shantae and the Pirate’s Curse will be making an appearance too! 24 Little Player Magazine DIGITAL EDITION
E3 2016 PREVIEW Kingdom Hearts HD 2.8 Final Prologue System: PS4 Publisher: Square Enix Developer: Square Enix Players: Single-player Release Date: December 2016
Kingdom Hearts HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue, a remastered collection of some of the Kingdom Hearts games, is coming to PlayStation 4 this winter. Players will be able to experience Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance and two additional games, Kingdom Hearts X Black Cover, and Kingdom Hearts 0.2 Birth by sleep – A Fragmentary Passage, all in HD for the very first time! This is shaping up to be an awesome collection for fans of the series.
Stardew Valley System: PS4, Xbox One, Wii U Publisher: ChuckleFish Games Developer: ConcernedApe Players: Single-player, Multiplayer Release Date: Q4 2016
Stardew Valley which was released on PC earlier this year, is finally coming to consoles this winter. The plot is very simple. You have inherited your grandfather’s overgrown farm and it is your job to restore it. As you progress in the game you will level up in five key areas which range from fishing to mining. You will also learn new cooking recipes and unlock new areas to explore on your way to creating the farm of your dreams. You will get new quests as you build relationships with other characters in the game. Little Player Magazine 25 DIGITAL EDITION
E3 2016 PREVIEW Minecraft Realms System: Xbox One, Win 10, Android, IOS Publisher: Microsoft Developer: Mojang Players: Single-player, Multiplayer Release Date: 2017
Minecraft fans have a lot to look forward to next year. The developer of the game has announced Minecraft Realms and unlike previous iterations in the series, this upcoming title in the series will be cross-play across all systems! What that means is, no matter which platform you choose to play on, you will be able to play with your friends. Very exciting news indeed!
Forza Horizon 3 System: Xbox One Publisher: Microsoft Developer: Playground Games Players: Single-player, Multiplayer Release Date: September 27, 2016
Racing fans get ready. The next chapter in the open-world racing series Forza Horizon is on its way. This time the setting will be Australia and the map size will be double of what it was in Forza Horizon 2! There will be over 350 vehicles to choose from and additional vehicles types never before seen in the series such as buggies and off-road trucks. Another exciting new feature will be 4 player campaign co-op.
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E3 2016 PREVIEW Madden NFL 17 System: PS4, XO, PS3, X360 Publisher: EA Sports Developer: EA Tiburon
Players: Single-player, Multiplayer Release Date: 8/23/2016
Madden 17 is almost here with some new game features to make the gameplay even more realistic. This year an all-new ball carrier feedback system is being introduced that will recommend special moves to avoid defenders. New pass and rush counters are also being introduced to help make defensive calls easier. Draft Champions and Madden Ultimate Team modes will also be present.
NBA 2K17 System: PS4, XO, PS3, X360 Publisher: 2K Sports Developer: Visual Concepts
Players: Single-player, Multiplayer Release Date: 9/20/2016
When it comes to the most realistic basketball game on the market, only one game comes to mind with most gamers. The NBA 2K series has set the bar for realistic graphics, fluid animation, and the sounds of a real NBA game. This year’s edition is no different. Expect some minor graphical improvements, animations, and enhanced game modes.
NHL 17 System: PS4, XO Publisher: EA Sports Developer: EA Canada
Players: Single-player, Multiplayer Release Date: Sept. 2016
EA Sports is looking to step it up with some fresh gameplay, Net Battle Physics and a few all-new modes. This year they are introducing Draft Champions Mode and the opportunity to play in the World Cup of Hockey. Of course all your classic modes will be back such as popular Franchise Mode which will allow you to control everything about your favorite team down to the smallest detail.
FIFA 17 System: PS4, XO, PS3, X360 Publisher: EA Sports Developer: EA Canada
Players: Single-player, Multiplayer Release Date: 9/27/2016
FIFA 17 will feature an all-new game engine that will help make it look even more realistic! The graphics won’t be the only enhancement this year. Increased response and more interactive objects on the field with increased weather effects will also be present. Crowds and sidelines will be even more lively. We also know more women’s teams will be available this year. Little Player Magazine 27 DIGITAL EDITION
E3 2016 PREVIEW
amiibo
Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
You’re going to need to clear out a lot of shelf space for all the new amiibo’s that are on the way! There were ten of them announced. The first seven are due out November 4th of this year and they’re all part of the Super Mario series. For the first time ever we’ll be getting amiibo’s for Daisy, Waluigi, and Boo. The Boo amiibo will glow in the dark! Then Wario, Rosalina, Donkey Kong, and Diddy Kong will have brand new poses. Next year three amiibo will be released alongside The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. There will be an archer and horse riding version of Link along with Guardian which is a monster. Guardian is the first amiibo ever to have flexible parts! We can’t wait!
Super Mario Series: Donkey Kong Diddy Kong Rosalina Daisy Wario Waluigi Glow-in-the-dark Boo 28 Little Player Magazine DIGITAL EDITION
E3 2016 PREVIEW Skylanders Imaginators
Create your own Skylander!
We are absolutely thrilled that all 300+ character toys that have been released from all the previous Skylanders games are going to work with Skylanders Imaginators. You know what would be pretty sweet? Being able to make your own Skylander. Imaginators is going to let you do just that! You’ll be able to create powers, abilities, catchphrases, appearances, and tons more! The options are nearly endless for what you can do so you’re really only limited by your own imagination! If it’s too overwhelming the game has a randomization feature to choose parts for you. With the new creation crystal toy you’ll be able to create and transport you Skylanders to other consoles too! There’s going to be 20 new characters as well featuring Senseis. They’re masters of one of the ten powerful battle classes and can unleash Sky-Chi, a Battle Class super move. One time PlayStation mascot Crash Bandicoot will be exclusive to the PS4 version as well!
Ambush
Ember
Wolfgang
Crash Bandicoot Little Player Magazine 29 DIGITAL EDITION
E3 2016 PREVIEW
Xbox One S
Custom Controllers
For anyone who was on the fence about purchasing an Xbox One, Microsoft is hoping to make your decision a bit easier. Later this summer Microsoft will be launching a revised version of their console known as the Xbox One S. It is 40% smaller than the current edition and comes with a revised controller with a textured grip and bluetooth capabilities. You will have a choice of purchasing it with three different sized hard drives (500gb, 1TB, or 2TB) and will feature the ability to play 4K media. Pricing will be determined by the size of the hard drive you choose ranging from $299.99 - $399.99. Beginning this August to coincide with the launch of the new Xbox One S, Microsoft is going to allow players to design their own controllers. This means it will be the newest version of the controller with the textured grips and bluetooth capabilities. We are not just talking about a couple cosmetic changes here and there. According to Microsoft there will be over 8 million different combinations available! Pricing will start at $79.99 with an additional cost to add custom text.
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E3 2016 PREVIEW
PS4 “Neo”
?
Not to be outdone by its competition, Sony is gearing up for a revised release of its best selling console the PS4 with an all-new version codenamed “Neo”. Many are also referring to it as Playstation 4.5. Like its competitors, Playstation Neo will support 4K media playback and have upgraded graphical power. It will be compatible with all current and future playstation software. It is tentatively scheduled for release this September. No pricing is available at this time.
Nintendo NX While not a lot of information is available at this time, we at Little Player thought it would be worth mentioning that Nintendo is also planning on releasing a new console in March 2017. Unlike its competition, it is not a revised version of their existing hardware. It is a completely new console that should have the specs to compete with Microsoft and Sony. Rumors suggest it will feature a screen controller that will support remote Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is confirmed to release play of console based games. No for the new Nintendo NX sometime in early 2017. pricing is available at this time. Little Player Magazine 31 DIGITAL EDITION
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SEGA WEEK
kid’s TOURNAMENT
On April 30th, 2016, Little Player Magazine and SegaBits hosted a kid’s tournament during Sega Week at the Galloping Ghost Arcade. A group of seven talented players competed against each other in Sonic Championship, a kid-friendly fighting game from Sega. Every competitor took home a copy of the premier issue of Little Player and the winners won free games and Sega swag from SegaBits. The Galloping Ghost Arcade is located at 9415 Ogden Ave, Brookfield, IL 60513.
WINNERS
#1. JACLYN C. #2. ALDOY H. #3. JOEY H. & BRODIE M.
Honorable Mention: DYLAN F., XANDER B. & ISRAEL
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Collector’s Corner
By Jason Kaplan
Collecting “Toys-to-Life” figures is really fun! Here is a guide to some of the newest figures that are coming out this year. You can use the check boxes to keep track of your collection.
Callie
Series: Splatoon Release date: 7/8/2016
Marie
Series: Splatoon Release date: 7/8/2016
Arriving at your favorite retailer July 8th everybody’s favorite Inkopolis News hosts, the Squid Sisters Callie and Marie will be arriving as a double pack for $24.99. In Splatoon you’ll be able to unlock cool new music performances from them. In addition to that you’ll also be able to unlock their outfits in Super Mario Maker. Also there’s a new three pack of Splatoon amiibo. For $34.99 the pack has a green Inkling Girl, a purple Inkling Boy, and an orange Squid.
Two diorama displays are also getting released. Unfortunately they will be in Japan only. One is The Kelp Dome and the other is a stage for The Squid Sisters which even comes with a place for you to put your 3DS to watch their performances!
New Splatoon Triple Pack
Splatoon Dioramas
Series: Splatoon Release date: 7/8/2016
Series: Splatoon Release date: 2016 (JAPAN ONLY)
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Things are very quiet right now for Lego Dimensions. Just a few weeks ago the 5th wave of expansion packs was released which marks the end of what was originally planned. The good news here is that there will be more expansion packs. The better news is that even though there’s going to be a new set of expansions you’re not going to need a new starter set. The very same one you already have will continue to work with everything that is released. No compatibility issues at all. What’s next? Supergirl and Green Arrow of DC Comics will be released as a limited run apparently. After that it’s a lot of E3 rumors. The biggest being Harry Potter and Sonic the Hedgehog. Stay tuned.
Super Girl
Green Arrow
Series: DC Comics Release date: 2016
Series: DC Comics Release date: 2016
Sonic the Hedgehog Series: Sonic Release date: 2016
Collector’s Tip!
Harry Potter Team Pack Series: Harry Potter Release date: 2016
Count on Little Player Magazine to keep you informed on all the new “Toys-to-Life” figures coming out. Use our guides in this and future issues to plan and keep track of your collection. If you do not want to write on your magazine, try photocopying these pages or if you have the digital version of the magazine, try printing these pages before you check anything off. Ask your parents first!
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The Skylanders series is going strong with lots of new characters and vehicles coming in 2016. Recently, two new toys were released for Skylanders SuperChargers: Buzz Wing, a $16.99 an insect-like flying vehicle and the super cool Thrillipede, a $14.99 hero who fights evil with four hands. Keep an eye out for both of them at your favorite video game store this summer.
Thrillipede
Buzz Wing
Series: SuperChargers Release date: Summer 2016
Series: SuperChargers Release date: Summer 2016
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If you’re looking for something totally different Skylanders has you covered there too with the release of Battlecast. It’s a cards-to-life game you play on your smartphone or tablet. You can download the app at the iOS App Store, Google Play store, or the Amazon Appstore. The cards can be purchased physically and scanned into your game or downloaded digitally. There are 270 cards to collect! There’s 64 missions to solo play or you can battle your friends for infinite adventures.
Single-player mode gives you 64 missions to excite and challenge you.
There are 270 cards to collect and use in your many battles.
You get to battle your friends online in an awesome Multiplayer mode!
Scan your cards and bring them to life using your tablet or smartphone!
Disney Infinity will feature Alice Through the Looking Glass and Finding Dory both of which will be released early this Summer. Unfortunately, Disney Infinity will be cancelled and there will be no further additions to the collection in 2016.
Nemo
Series: Finding Dory Release date: Summer 2016
Dory
Series: Finding Dory Release date: Summer 2016
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BIG & little Reviews Meet the Crew
BIG Players
little Players
MARTIN ALESSI
ISABELLA OCAMPO
Martin is so excited about Lego Star Wars TFA that he was caught blasting the soundtrack while art directing this issue! He also really got into Ratchet & Clank Star Fox Zero, and Sega 3D Classics Collection.
JASON KAPLAN
The weather is getting a lot nicer and Jason is happy he can finally start riding his bike again. He’s even more excited for Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens. It really can’t get here soon enough!
TIM WILKUS
Tim has been busy teaching and wrapping up the school year. On summer break he is looking to catch up on some of this year’s biggest games. He reminds us to read at least 20 minutes every day.
JERRY BONNER
Jerry is a father and gamer with 20+ years of experience in both the father and gaming fields. He truly believes it is time for Little Player to show kids and parents the importance of good gaming choices.
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Isabella’s world has been shaped by video games, and she still enjoys them to this day! She really loves getting lost in the vast worlds that games have to offer, and her favorite genres are adventure and sandbox.
BRIDGET BONNER Bridget loves all gaming but tends to prefer portable and mobile gaming this issue. Her favorite game this time around is Angry Birds Action. This summer she is really looking forward to theater camp.
BRODY PATTERSON Brody is looking to spend his summer catching up on the great games he missed while working hard at school this year. His favorite game this issue is Disney Crossy Road, and he has recently started in on NES classics.
BIG & little Reviews Star Fox Zero/Guard Publisher: Nintendo Developer: Platinum Games Systems: Wii U Players: Single-player, Multiplayer Release Date: April 22, 2016 ESRB Rating: E10+ Content Descriptors: Fantasy Violence
BIG REVIEW MARTIN
7.5
I’ll admit, I found it hard to get used to the “multi-tasking” motion-based control scheme at first. After a few plays, I finally got into it. Graphics and sound quality are excellent and this is by far the best looking Star Fox in the series. Invincibility Mode makes up for the difficulty enabling younger players to have fun too.
BIG REVIEW JASON
6
Star Fox Guard comes with Star Fox Zero. It’s a tower defense game and I had more fun with that than with Zero. In Zero, Co-op play was better since it requires you to do less. One person flies the other shoots. There is a good game hidden in Star Fox Zero, but unfortunately it’s behind poor motion controls.
little REVIEW ISABELLA
9
Star Fox Zero is hard to get used to at first, but in the end is an exciting and challenging game. The Arwing’s several modes are each interesting to use, and each of the levels is creative and the graphics are absolutely beautiful. However, it requires a lot of concentration and practice to beat.
little REVIEW BRODY
8
This is a really exciting game! Its challenging and fun at the same time as you try to stop a lot of bad guys. The action here should work for both kids and adults. The Star Fox Guard game included is a defense game where you stop robot attackers. That one is also fun for kids all ages. Little Player Magazine 39 DIGITAL EDITION
BIG & little Reviews Ratchet & Clank
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment Developer: Insomniac Games Systems: PS4 Players: Single-player Release Date: April 12, 2016 ESRB Rating: E10+ Content Descriptors: Animated Blood, Fantasy Violence
BIG REVIEW JERRY
little REVIEW
9
BRIDGET
The game is an entertaining adventure through colorful worlds that are built for platforming and shooting. There are also racing (hoverboard) and flying (spaceship) sections which add diversity and overall spice.The best thing about this new R&C game though is that it doesn’t skimp on the fun.
BIG REVIEW TIM
Ratchet & Clank is a running/jumping/ shooting type of game. Unfortunately, this is probably my least favorite type of game. Ratchet and Clank are cute and funny though, and the different planets are interesting to explore. I’m sure other people will like Ratchet & Clank, but it really just isn’t for me.
8.5
I really enjoyed my time with Rachet & Clank on the PS4. The CG animations look like something out of a Pixar movie, the voice acting is spot on, and most importantly the game is fun. There are a variety of weapons at your disposal which makes blowing things up a lot of fun. I highly recommend this game.
6
BIG REVIEW JASON
9
This is a fantastic game! It’s a combination of platforming and action, though it’s more action oriented. That’s great because there are many different weapons you can acquire and power up during the game. It can be challenging at times but never frustrating. It’s a beautiful game too, especially the cut scenes.
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BIG & little Reviews DiRT Rally
Publisher: Deep Silver Developer: Codemasters Systems: Xbox One, PS4 Players: Single-player, Online Multiplayer Release Date: April 5, 2016 ESRB Rating: E Content Descriptors: N/A
BIG REVIEW MARTIN
6
Racing games that are more like a sim than arcade action have never been my thing. This game’s main flaw is it’s super touchy controls and, in my opinion, just staying on the road should never be a chore or a challenge. The graphics are decent but the cars don’t seem to match the gritty backgrounds. Mediorce at best.
BIG REVIEW TIM
4
Racing along gravel roads, snowy terrain, and mountain landscapes is a form of racing not appreciated by many. This requires tight controls which Dirt Rally lacks. Every vehicle controls as if they are on ice no matter what surface you’re on and the vehicle graphics look they were pasted from a last-gen console.
BIG REVIEW
8
JASON
Dirt Rally is incredibly complex racer. Almost everything is customizable from how your car handles to who you have in your pit crew. Because of that, it’s an incredibly hard game. I’m conflicted on this one. It’s very well made but it’s very difficult. I liked it alot, but it may be too challenging for young players.
little REVIEW BRODY
6
This is a fun racing game for what it is. It isn’t easy to get over the twisty, bumpy terrain without getting your car too badly wrecked. Controls are tough to keep going on the road. I don’t like that you have to buy new cars. It is good for all ages, though. Little Player Magazine 41 DIGITAL EDITION
BIG & little Reviews Sega 3D Classics Collection Publisher: Sega Developer: M2 Systems: 3DS Players: Single-player, Multiplayer Release Date: April 26, 2016 ESRB Rating: E10+ Content Descriptors: Alcohol Reference, Fantasy Violence
BIG REVIEW MARTIN
9
Wow! This collection took me back to the games I loved when I was a kid! Altered Beast, Sonic, and Galaxy Force II are my top three faves.The addition of 3D effects is just the icing on the cake. You want a batch of retro games that look and play great in 3D? This is it. Be sure to give your eyes a rest, though.
BIG REVIEW JERRY
8
Retro compilations are all the rage nowadays. This game is one of the better ones as the games (nine in total) were rebuilt for the ground up to take advantage of the 3DS’ 3D capabilities. The results are quite noticeable especially in titles like Maze Walker, Thunderblade and Galaxy Force II. Good times!
little REVIEW ISABELLA
8.5
Sega 3D Classics Collection is a game that is fun for the whole family. The classic games can provide hours of entertainment. It’s great for casual and competitive game play, with addicting and fun games such as Puyo Puyo 2, Sonic The Hedgehog, and Thunder Blade. The only flaw being… wanting more games to play!
little REVIEW BRIDGET
7
Sega 3D Classics Collection are a bunch of games my Dad grew up with. They look cool in 3D for sure! My favorites out of this group are Sonic the Hedgehog and Puyo Puyo 2, which is an anime-like puzzle game. If you’d like to learn some video game history through play-time this is a great place to start!
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BIG & little Reviews Disney Crossy Road Publisher: Disney Developer: Hipster Whale Systems: Android, iOS Players: Single-player Release Date: April 7, 2016 ESRB Rating: E Content Descriptors: N/A
BIG REVIEW JERRY
7
Disney’s Crossy Road is, essentially, a voxel (3D pixels basically) version of the arcade classic Frogger. It is fun, addictive and easy to play in short spurts which is perfect for a mobile app of this type. On top of that, there is a ton of extra content (i.e. levels, characters, etc.) to unlock and/or purchase.
BIG REVIEW MARTIN
8
Take Crossy Road’s simple, yet addictive game play and add your favorite Disney and Pixar characters and you really can’t go wrong! There are plenty of levels to play through and bonus content to unlock. Don’t be tempted by micro-transations as most of the good stuff can be earned. Simple fun!
little REVIEW BRIDGET
8
I liked the original version of Crossy Road a lot, but I have to say that I like the Disney version better because I like playing as Judy Hopps from Zootopia, Woody from Toy Story and Joy from Inside Out. I also like how easy the game is to just pick up and play… whenever and wherever!
little REVIEW BRODY
8
I thought Disney Crossy Road was a creative game. It’s really fun just like regular Crossy Road but with classic Disney characters. You have to avoid falling into water, getting hit by trains and getting run over. It is a game all ages can enjoy. Little Player Magazine 43 DIGITAL EDITION
BIG & little Reviews Angry Birds Action
Publisher: Rovio Entertainment Ltd. Developer: Rovio Entertainment Ltd. Systems: Android, iOS Players: Single-player Release Date: April 28, 2016 ESRB Rating: E Content Descriptors: N/A
BIG REVIEW JERRY
little REVIEW
5
BRIDGET
Pinball is one of my favorite things in the world, so turning the Angry Birds into little, bouncy pinballs makes me say, OMG! I didn’t stop playing this game until I ran the batteries down on my dad’s phone…SO ADDICTIVE!! I just want to play one more level and collect all the eggs I can!
This latest entry into the Angry Birds franchise that mixes the formula up a bit by casting your indignant fowl as more of a billiards ball or pinball rather than as ammunition. The experience is entertaining for about six levels but then it falls into the annoyances of “freemium” games and there it stops being fun.
BIG REVIEW TIM
7.5
ABA presents an almost 3D perspective rather than the side-action we have grown accustomed to in previous versions of the game. I felt like I was playing a pinball game at times. The colors are vibrant and the music is enjoyable. It was refreshing to play and I hope to see more in the series from this perspective.
9
little REVIEW BRODY
7
This is a mobile game based off of the movie. You go around getting eggs back and can earn any number of Angry Birds within the game. It’s kind of like a pinball game mixed with Angry Birds but different. It’s a game that most children should enjoy.
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Reader Reviews Your Favorites, Your Reviews, Your Voice! little REVIEW
little REVIEW
9
AIDEN F.
HANNAH F.
9.5
Minecraft - X360
Nintendogs - NDS
Block after block, server after server, command after command, there’s so much to do in Minecraft. My favorite item to build with is Red Stone. I love building houses. I wish there wasn’t any lag. My favorite character is Hero Brian. Overall, I think Minecraft is the best game for kids and adults!
I like Nintendogs because it is like taking care of a real dog. You have to feed, bathe and walk your dog. My favorite part is entering races and challenges where you can win at least $100 in prize money. With the money you can buy supplies, dog toys and even an incredible house.
little REVIEW KATIE S.
10
little REVIEW NICOLAS L.
10
Super Metroid - SNES
Yoshi’s Woolly World - Wii U
One game is my favorite. It’s Super Metroid! It takes awhile to get to the end, but it’s worth it! The graphics are really colorful and beautifully detailed. You can find so many cool items. There are many different areas to explore. There are so many different enemies, and huge bosses to fight. It’s a huge adventure!
I like Yoshi’s Wooly World because it is cute, fun and it looks like everything is made of yarn. The music is nice, cute, and fun too. The levels are creative and they have hidden secrets. I enjoy playing this game because it is cute, creative, fun, peaceful, and relaxing.
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46 Little Player Magazine DIGITAL EDITION
Little Player Magazine 47 DIGITAL EDITION
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