What’s New In Games This Week

Those wanting another Mirror’s Edge, Johnny Depp in LEGO form, something a bit more meaty to Wii Sports’ tennis component, and to save a few bucks should take note of this week’s offerings…

Brink is a coming of age game of sorts. Developed by Splash Damage, they’ve been behind various id Software franchise spin-offs, including Wolfenstein: Enemy Territory and Enemy Territory: Quake. So here’s their first stab at an original IP that… seems a lot like Team Fortress! It’s a first person shooter that emphasizes squad based tactics and character classes. Add in color-coding and you get the aforementioned comparisons. Though here’s something new that it brings to the table that those other FPSs don’t: parkour! Xbox 360, PS3, PC

Let’s be honest: most folks who pick up whatever new LEGO game is out at the moment could ultimately not give a rat’s ass about its subject matter. Make no mistake; if you’re a fan of the Pirates of the Caribbean, it’s a definite bonus, especially since it not only covers the first three flicks, but the upcoming one, too. But for the rest of us, we just want the same 2 player, help each other beat the crap out of all manner of things made up of LEGO pieces and problem solving that the series has down to an exact science. PS3, PSP, Xbox 360, DS, 3DS, Wii

Before Wii Sports stole the crown, the finest video game version of tennis was easily Sega’s take on the sport. The sequels that followed were okay, but this one looks to be a possible return to the throne. Why? Because it’s giving everyone what they’ve always wanted: Wii-style gameplay with HD visuals. The PS3 version supports the PlayStation Move, whereas the Xbox 360 version will have Kinect support. Oh, and for you SD game players out there, take note that the Wii version has support for the Wii Motion Plus. In case, you know, you’re TOTALLY sick of or have completely mastered the one in Wii Sports. Oh, and don’t forget all the famous faces, everyone from Maria Sharapova to Venus Williams. Though the PS3 version is the one to nab due to its exclusive characters, including legend Boris Becker. Xbox 360, PS3, Wii

First off, as you can tell from the title, the franchise is still kicking and screaming. Much like in the past, you’ll get the chance to face off in a variety of tracks and modes, as well as a host of motocross/supercross and ATVs. Though this time around, the game has been developed under the supervision of James Stewart, a superstar from the world of MX. But the big news is the low price, of just $40 and its reliance on downloadable content. Basically, you get the core game at a low entry point, and then it’s up to the player to pick and choose what parts they want. Time will tell if the “freemium” model, which works so well on the PC and iPhone can make the transition to the console. Xbox 360, PS3,