Retro game series making the transition to 3D on modern systems is hardly something new—Zelda, Mario, Sonic the Hedgehog, Contra, Bubsy (I kid, I kid)—all had a dance in the 3D limelight. Some were successful, and some utterly failed (can we PLEASE keep Sonic 2D already?). No matter the outcome, they all tried to bring a modern look with them as they moved to 3D. One must wonder though—what would have happened if those games made the transition to 3D, yet the visuals remained the same as their 2D retro sprite-based counterparts? Atlus grabs that question by the pixels with 3D DOT GAME HEROES.

A tip of the hat to a simpler time

3D DOT GAME HEROES (3DDGH) is essentially a love letter to retro games. It plays just like a classic adventure game with simple map layouts, colorful, repeating graphic elements, and squares everywhere. The game takes this classic style and moves it to 3D, like so many have done before, but developer From Software was hardly satisfied with the standards of modernizing such a game. In a completely clever and unique twist, 3DDGH maintains the look of a classic retro game while being presented in 3D space. Characters are made of small blocks. Trees are box-shaped and full of sharp edges. Environments are clearly made up of simple tiled objects. 3DDGH then puts the icing on the cake by splashing modern technologies into this classic look. There is a real-time lighting model with dynamic shadows, depth of field and camera effects, and even fancy bloom shading on highlights. It’s a paradox of visual styles.

Atlus announced recently that 3DDGH will be released on May 11th 2010 for the price of $39.99. The title is to be a PS3 exclusive. Preorders are now open, and purchasing information can be found on the 3D DOT GAME HEROES website.

3DDGH looks to be a wonderful game full of nostalgia. It will be a great way to revisit the game style of old—remaining completely fresh and unique while breaking every status quo that would come with a title like this. If you own a PS3 and miss the days of dark lords overtaking a kingdom and one hero rising to the challenge of stopping them, then 3D DOT GAME HEROES looks to be a must-play. Just be sure to enjoy the pretty shadows while you’re at it.

Atlus has announced today an impending replacement program for the official strategy guide included with the deluxe edition of the publisher’s Demon’s Souls title.

The program comes after reports of unusual wearing or fading of the ink used in the guide’s cover.

“While it seems that not every copy of the guide is affected, and the specific cause of the issue remains unclear, Atlus always strives for nothing less than the full satisfaction of our customers. Therefore, we will soon launch a program to replace defective strategy guides,” reads the official release.

Atlus says users will be asked to ship the first page and cover of their strategy as proof of purchase, leaving buyers with a usable book while the replacement claim is processed.

The publisher advises affected users to visit their official forums where full details regarding the program will be posted next week.

Grand prize pack

While some would consider costume contests lame, the prize pack for this year’s Atlus-o-Weenie is pretty spectacular, and should encourage even the most reticent gamers to at least consider entering.

From now until November 3rd, dress as your favorite Atlus character (in b4 “cosplay!”) and get voted up on Atlus’ Facebook page, and you can be in the running for one of two prize packages. The first is the “grand prize”, picked by popular vote, which consists of the Demon’s Souls deluxe edition, Artbook, soundtrack CD, 48″ poster and a mini poster signed by the creator. The “special” prize pack, chosen by Atlus, receives either the standard edition of Demon’s Souls + posters, CD, and artbook, or Shin Megami Tensei + posters, CD, and artbook. All prizes (including runners-up) also include downloadable codes for Droplitz.

Special Prize package

Atlus today announced that ACE Team’s acclaimed melee-action FPS Zeno Clash is coming to Xbox Live Arcade in a newly remastered “Definitive” Ultimate Edition.

The original Zeno Clash was developed by ACE Team, a Santiago, Chile-based indie developer. Originally made for PC, it was a cult hit and contained many unique elements and won several Indie gaming awards. It is still available on Steam, but it sounds like the remastered edition will be the way to go, if you happen to have an Xbox 360. The press releases announces “new modes, new features, and added content” as well as a “series of improvements based on fan feedback.”

The Ultimate Edition will hit Xbox Live Arcade in Spring of 2010.

Atlus Faithful members today got a teaser email with a sassy picture of cosplayers and a hint to “prepare yourself” for Atlus-o-Weenie 2009.

Atlus has always been a fixation for cosplayers because their games usually feature elaborate sets, characters, and costumes.

Cosplay is one of those things that has to be done exceedingly well to be effective. There’s definitely an “uncanny valley” when it comes to cosplayers. When you reach the other side of that valley, however, it can be…

Well, I’ll just repeat the words of my friend Rob: “Hot, but weird, but hot? But weird… But hot.”