A 2D Revival

Well before 2D Boy made a splash with their excellent 2D action game, World of Goo, the classic 2D-style of game play was experiencing a bit of a renaissance in this post blast processing era. While there is no denying the natural evolution of video games parallels the same technological arc that enables Hollywood to make movies such as The Matrix, Kung-Fu Panda and Wanted, developers have proven that when it comes to fun, it's tough to top 2D.

Take the PS3 for example. While the most hotly anticipated game of 2008 was undoubtedly MGS 4, the console's best exclusive title was arguably Little Big Planet - a classic platformer. And while Capcom had everyone clamoring for Street Fighter IV in 2008, with titles such as Mega Man 9 and Bionic Commando Re-Armed, Capcom also reminded gamers why they emerged from the 8-bit era as a AAA game studio.

Hit the jump to join Pink Gorilla and Jumpman in a discussion about 2D gaming in a 3D world.

With the recent revival of 2D games, I think it's time that you consider a comeback. I can see it now, the return of Jumpman.

What do you mean "comeback?" Are you implying that my career as a video game actor has been in the toilet. I'll have you know that before Mario or Mega Man, there was only one A-list video game actor. Me, Jumpman. The king of 8-bit.

You gotta stop living in the past Jumpman. When was the last time you had a paying gig as a video game actor?

Let's see. I did that ad spot for Westwood College Online. Remember, "tighten up the graphics on level three." I played the part of the less than tightened graphics. It was a very complex role, but I think I pulled it off well. Oh, and I think I might have a tryout lined up for that NxG game. That could be huge.

That's pathetic. They didn't even end up showing you in that commercial.

I still got paid!.

It's time to end the denial and start your quest back to the top. Face it. You're the best around. And nothing's gonna ever keep you down. Not everyone gets a second chance. This 2D revival is here today, but could be gone tomorrow. It's time to sieze the moment. Carpe diem, Jumpman. Ima wo ikirou!

........you know what? You're right. I have been pathetic lately.....okay, for the last twenty years or so. But I am the best. I am the 2D hero in a 3D world. What do I need to do?

Reality television. I'm thinking Dancing With The Stars or The Surreal Life.

Say what? I'm a video game actor, not a television star. Besides, I can't dance, and it will be a cold day in the Magmoor Caverns before I'll ever live in a house with Robert van Winkle .

I got it! Celebrity Survivor. Here's the plan. We'll dispatch Pixel to "convince" the producers to shoot the next season on Ooka-jima. And we'll pick the cast of contestants. We need a line up with just enough star power to attract viewers, but we don't want anyone who is going to outshine you on the show. I'm thinking Joanna Dark from Perfect Dark, Mappy, Jaxson de Box from Snacks 'n Jaxson, Ms. Pacman, Dirk the Daring from Dragon's Lair, Little Mac from Punch Out! and Pauline from Donkey Kong.

But I'm scared of clowns. Especially Jaxon de Box. What is with his neck?

Focus, Jumpman. Now the key to jumpstarting your career through reality television is getting lot's of face time. And since sex sells, you need to steam things up with Pauline. A steamy romance with your arch-rivals former squeeze should really create some controversy. Better yet, if you pretend to fall in love with her, and then set it up so that she unfairly dumps you, then you can score some major sympathy points.

I think you've been spending too much time with Pixel lately. But what does all have to do with starring in my own videogame.

Once your back in the limelight, the offers will come pouring in from Nintendo, Capcom, Konami, you name it. I can see the press release now, Jumpman to star in 8-bit revival of Yie Ar Kung Fu...or Commando...or Vs. Excitebike!...or...

...Kid Icarus! I've always wanted to fly! Let's do this.

Better call Pixel.