3DS: Charizard 3DSXL

Pokemon Japan is releasing a super limited Charizard (known as Lizard in JP) 3DSXL. This isn't going to be a wait in line all night type of thing either, as they will be sold via drawing. Damn do I wish I could get to Japan for this bad boy!

In other news, I'm a terrible blogger this month. XD I'll have some good posts coming soon!

Final Fantasy XIV: A Look at the New Shortcut System

One of the biggest gripes I hear while playing FFXI is that the PC version is bogged down by the PS2 version. That SE's obsession with making the game for both consoles and PC continues to make the PC suffer from the same limitations as the PS2. Not wanting to make the same mistake, SE announced a new HUD menu system for the upcoming release of FFXIV: A Realm Reborn. This new overlay will not only affect the PS3 release but will be available for the PC as well if you're one of those freaks who uses a controller on the PC. (Just a freak, like me~)

The new menu system that will feel very familiar to anyone who has played a PS3 or PSP as it's basically an altered version of Sony's "Cross Hot Bar." Very basic and very simple. As for gameplay, abilities and spells will be mapped across the front of the controller allowing you to set up 8 (4 on buttons & 4 on directional pad) abilities or spells. You will also be able to cycle through different sets using the R2-L2 buttons. This new system aims to become a new standard for console based MMOs. (Us controller lovers aren't insane, we're just.. ahead of the game.) Check out the screen shots below and take a gander for yourself.

Check out the screen shots as they are from the PS3 release.

I have to say I am looking forward to the born-again FFXIV release. I will just had to find time to play it between FFXI & PSO2. >.>

Utada Hikaru wants to be your friend.. in the new Animal Crossing.

Japanese music icon Utada Hikaru may be taking some time off from the music industry but that doesn't mean she's fallen off the face of the planet. The Kingdom Hearts songstress and popular Jpop icon also loves to talk about her video game addiction. She can kick your ass at Tetris, but soon she may need a little help from her friends.

Utada is looking forward to playing the new 3DS Animal Crossing game, and is also in need of some friends to play it with. Maybe you could play with her and help her obtain items that only friends can give to you. It's probably the equivalent of playing those Facebook games that require you to have friends send you stuff to help along the way.

The link to her Twitter account is here. Works well if you read Japanese.