The trailer for Alientrap Software’s physics-based action-shooter Capsized has been making the rounds for about a week now. I’d made a mental note to post it already, but I got distracted by something shiny. Seeing it resurface on TIGSource reminded me of how fun it looks, and since pretty 2D shooters never go out of style, I don’t mind posting what some might consider to be “old news.” If it’s new to you, enjoy.

Capsized is the newest effort from indie developer Alientrap, previously known for Nexuiz, a freeware FPS. The transition from first to third person seems to have gone smoothly—at the end of the day, Alientrap is still just making games where you bullets in people’s faces, no matter the perspective. In any case, the game looks like a lot of fun, and the trailer seems to hint at some environmental strategies at play: you can use your jetpack and grappling hook to pull down logs and boulders, for example. Programmer and co-designer Lee Vermeulen offers this little tidbit:

“The new trailer shows off the fast physics based gameplay of the platformer, along with it’s stylized art and very special setting. The game will focus on fast-paced action along with physics-based puzzles, as the player attempts to exit the strange alien planet.

While, mechanically, Capsized has only the most tenuous link to Nathan Fouts’ own indie shooter Grapple Buggy, I can’t help but compare the two. While Capsized’s palette is more subdued compared to Grapple Buggy’s lush and vibrant landscapes, both games recommend that the planets on which they take place on are actually alive as you navigate through alien flora and fauna. Compared to the dark, remote isolation of games like Metroid, it’s a different feel altogether.

In any case, according to Capsized’s official site, the game will hit Steam and Xbox Live Arcade in 2010. For your viewing pleasure, there’s also a gallery of four screenshots below.

[Via IndieGames]

Via Destructoid

Holy. Crap.

The very first Microsoft store opened this day in Scottsdale, Arizona. I ran over to check it out and we’ll have more on that a tiny later today, but there’s one story that I’m sure will interest all of the 360 owners out there who have ever had an issue with console failure (i.e. most of us). MS is taking some of the injured out of the repairs process by allowing for in-store repair service.

Microsoft stores will be equipped to handle some basic repair tasks. All you’ve to do is walk in the store with your console, drop it off at the Answers Desk and a Microsoft Store employee will then diagnose the issue that you’re having. If it’s something simple — such as a faulty power supply causing the Red Ring of Death — they’ll rectify the situation immediately.

If it has to be shipped out, however, things are just about as awesome. Once the store has received your console, the main distribution center is notified and a replacement unit can be sent right away.

Yeah, it’s only any good if there’s a Microsoft Store in your area, but it’s exactly the way this sort of thing should be handled. I really have to give them credit for this one. Come back a tiny later for a closer look at the Microsoft Store.

Via Destructoid