By Beatriz Arreola
Staff Writer
Welcome to Level Up!, a regular column this semester in each CSUDH Bulletin about video games and video game culture from someone who has logged enough hours playing, and researching them, to at least fake like she knows what’s she talking about: me!
I have always had a large gap of break time in between classes the four years I have been here. No, I do not want to be productive during that time. Let me waste time.
If I was that person who liked to carry my game systems in my backpack, I would have my Nintendo Switch on me at all times, and roam around Hyrule on my horse named Munky.
Anyway, our school has a cool place where we can have fun gaming called the Torozone, which is essentially a game room with pool tables and video games.
Now, for those who are oblivious or just don’t care about video games, you may have never noticed the Torozone.
That’s why I’m here.
But, I must admit: This was supposed to be a power ranking of the games currently offered. However, SPOILER ALERT, they could be better. A lot better.
Any of the 11 games offered can be found on both Xbox One and Playstation 4, and the Torozone offers two PS4s and one Xbox One for people to check out.
They also have a Wii U, but my thoughts on the Wii console family as a whole? Not impressed. Just know that there are games available for your gaming pleasures.
The honorable mentions for the Wii U in the Torozone would have to be “Mario Kart 8” and “Smash Bros.” Both are pretty dated, but fun to catch a quick round or two on any breaks you and a friend have. They have always been party favorites, so go and waste time away screaming at your friend for throwing that red shell at you that takes you to sixth place from first.
Now for both the Xbox One and PS4. There is a range of typical shooters and fighting games, like “Call of Duty” and “Street Fighter.” But, if you have read this far, I think I can be completely honest with you: these aren’t my cup of Peet’s® coffee.
For sports games, there is “2K18,” “Madden 18,” and “FIFA 18.” If I had to choose, I’d say, “FIFA 18” is the better of the three. For someone who doesn’t enjoy sports games, I have found myself actually enjoying it while playing, and it’s not too hard to catch up on.
Honorable mention goes to “Madden 18” for its mechanic improvements compared to their previous game. The passing got worse, but they tried.
Sorry “2K18,” you’re last.
Boo.
The category with the largest amount of choices is fighting games. I’m going to go with my top pick of the bunch, “Mortal Kombat X.” I can go on and on, but the next generation cinematics are stunning and the gory deaths are bad ass. Fighting games are some of the quickest games you can get through and the Torozone has some great choices for everyone.
Before you say anything, yes I forgot to mention some games, but it was on purpose. I will not be rating the two “Call of Duty” games offered because the last one I ever touched was the original “Black Ops,” and I want that to live on in my heart forever.
Of all the games offered, I would say, “Rocket League” is by far the most enjoyable option, even if it doesn’t get the love it deserves. The game is cars playing soccer, it’s “FIFA,” but 20 times better.
That’s all you need to know. Go play it.
I know the idea of the game room is to encourage an ambiance of group playing not only because the Torozone doesn’t have the room for multiple gaming systems, but its easier for more people to play when the games are more cooperative/split-screen friendly.
I would love to see a variety of games for the person who wants to play a role playing game or a first-person shooter that doesn’t allow split-screen play like the ones currently offered. That would allow for more variety of games that appeal to a larger audience.
Come back for future Level Ups, where I will pontificate about my current favorite games. Because if I like them, you know they’re exceptional!
