E3 Thoughts

The first official day of E3 is winding down (Monday was considered day "zero"), and I wanted to share a few quick thoughts on what has stood out for me so far in no particular order:

1. Tomb Raider - From the CGI trailer released last week to the fresh screen shots and game play shown over the last few days, this game is at the top of my most wanted list. Some gamers might miss the Lara of old, but I think the fresh make over will help to push this reboot as more realistic and more personal as Lara starts her path to becoming an expert adventurer. I am really bummed that it won't release until Fall of 2012.

2. Battlefield 3 - Oh. My. Goodness. While the console versions have yet to be shown, we are in for a treat if these versions look even half as good as their PC brother. When I first saw the tank demo, I thought it was actual war footage. Fast, frantic and visceral, Battlefield 3 is officially on my radar.

3. SSX - I couldn't even tell you how much time I wasted playing the Alaska level in SSX Tricky during my college years. Over and over and over again, trying to beat my previous high score. I really hope that the new SSX will recapture those glory days, and by the looks of it EA is hard at work to try and achieve that. Certain player favorites are back and it looks like the game will be a proper mix of "seriousness" and over the top. EA has even gone so far as to add satellite data from actual mountain ranges from around the globe for you to try and nab that high score.

4. Uncharted 3 - Have you seen the trailer? What else can I say? I don't currently own a PS3, but this game makes me want to buy another one. Drake is riding horses, punching baddies in the face and wooing the ladies. Going to be an awesome adventure!

5. Batman: Arkham City - We've known about this game for a while now, but as more information is released, my anticipation grows and grows. Playable Catwoman? Yes, please! Tons of awesome baddies? Bring 'em on (coughPENGUINcough)! I feel this will be one of the best games of the year, and if you need to beef up that utility belt, you can even play with your own Batarang controller for PS3 and 360! Holy bat-themed buttons, Batman!

Honorable mentions - Hitman Absolution, Gears of War 3, Saints Row 3, Assassin's Creed Revelations, Dead Island, Resident Evil: Operation Raccoon City and Sony's Jack Tretton for being candid and from the heart when speaking at Sony's press conference about the PSN hack. Well played, Jack.

What knocked you down and blew you away? Let us know in the comments!

-Mark