Monday, August 20, 2012

Mass Effect 3 'Leviathan' DLC emerges August 28

Mass Effect 3 'Leviathan' DLC emerges August 28
BioWare will release Mass Effect 3's single-player DLC, Leviathan, on August 28 for the PS3, Xbox 360 and PC. European PS3 users will need to wait an extra day, unfortunately – Leviathan will be available on PS3 in Europe on August 29.

Mass Effect 3's Leviathan DLC will expand the single-player campaign, tasking Shepard with discovering "the most closely guarded secret in the galaxy before the Reapers silence it forever." Leviathan is set during the Mass Effect 3 campaign, prior to the controversial conclusion of Shepard's tale. EA has not yet revealed a price for Leviathan.


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The Last of Us and the process of creating a cutscene


It's quite the process to create a cutscene in The Last of Us – from the animators to the actors doing the motion-capture to the end result in-game, it takes a lot of effort. Developer Naughty Dog has given us a behind-the-scenes look at how one scene in particular was made, which is, to be quite frank, equal parts fascinating and daunting.

But, hey, if all this insight isn't your thing, then at least you get to watch people run around in funny suits. There's got to be some value in that, right?


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Planetary Annihilation, a new RTS Uber wants to get Kickstarted

Super Monday Night Combat guys are Kickstarting an RTS


Super Monday Night Combat developer Uber Entertainment is looking to branch out from its free-to-play MOBA game and create a real-time strategy title called Planetary Annihilation. Of course Uber is using Kickstarter to finance the $900,000 cost of the game, but they're also taking donations directly through its Planetary Annihilation website.

Planetary Annihilation aims to do just that: present "Total Annihilation-inspired gameplay on a planetary scale." Players will wage galactic war and conquer entire solar systems, or games can be scaled back to take place on a single planet. Like other RTS games, Planetary Annihilation will allow players to create their own maps – in this case, their own planets and systems – which players will be able to publish and share to the community.

Multiplayer skirmishes can have anywhere between two and 40 participants. And to handle the load of these intense skirmishes, Planetary Annihilation will employ a client-server model to handle the lion's share of work running multiplayer matches, so that real-time multiplayer won't be bogged down by those with lesser-quality rigs.


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Dead or Alive 5 adds Brad Wong and Eliot to the roster

Despite being featured in Team Ninja's relationship graph, Brad Wong and Eliot were never officially confirmed for Dead or Alive 5 – that is, until now. Tecmo announced the pair as the latest additions to Dead or Alive 5's roster today at Gamescom.

In addition to giving us a glimpse at Eliot and Brad Wong, Team Ninja has also sent out some images of a new stage, a small house in China. While the fight starts in this house, the gallery below shows its wooden walls are hardly enough to keep the greatest combatants confined.

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TEAM NINJA HITS GAMESCOM WITH NEXT SET OF NEW CHARACTERS FOR DEAD OR ALIVE 5

Brad Wong and Eliot Enter the Dead or Alive Tournament

Cologne, Germany – August 15, 2012- Today Team NINJA celebrates the kick-off of Gamescom 2012 by revealing two new fighters for the upcoming fighting entertainment title Dead or Alive 5, which launches on Xbox 360® and PlayStation®3 on September 28, 2012. Team NINJA re-introduces the characters of Brad Wong and Eliot, who look more realistic than ever in their return to the highly anticipated fifth installment of the Dead or Alive series. To premier these two new characters, Team NINJA has released spectacular new images of the characters highlighting both fighters in a never-before-seen stage.

Referred to as the "immovable apprentice," Eliot is a Xing Yi Quan prodigy under the tutelage of master Gen Fu. The youngest contestant in the DOA tournament, Eliot has a polite and respectful attitude toward his rivals but can be very aggressive and impatient during a fight. Fast on his feet, he uses coordinated movements to generate bursts of power, overwhelming his opponents while simultaneously defending and attacking.

Brad Wong, having concluded his search for the legendary wine Genra, returns to Dead or Alive 5 with his unique fighting style. The "Druken Master" continues to exhibit the distinct moves of Zui Quan, confusing his opponents with his well-balanced style that employs a combination of hard-to-predict evasive maneuvers and quick strikes.

To showcase these two characters, Team NINJA has released all-new images of Brad Wong and Eliot fighting in a small Chinese house. This new stage is another example of the vivid interactive stages in Dead or Alive 5, as characters can be kicked through walls and windows and destroy their surroundings as they fight to win!

Dead or Alive 5 will also include an extensive online mode, allowing players to test their skill against opponents from around the globe.

Dead or Alive 5 is developed by Team NINJA and published by Tecmo Koei.


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Super Joystiq Podcast Gamescom 2012 special: Day 2

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We're back with more Gamescom 2012 coverage. Day 2 was a big day of press conferences, and we have 'em all covered.

Alexander, Ben, Richard, and Jess are joined by Engadget contributing editor Mat Smith, and VG247 head honcho Patrick Garratt to discuss the big announcements from the four big press conferences of the day. Highlights include Capcom's Remember Me, Half Life 3 not getting announced, and a good showing by Sony with the likes of Rain, Tearaway, Call of Duty: Black Ops Declassified for Vita, and more.

Stay tuned throughout the week for more daily specials out of GDC Europe and Gamescom 2012 in Germany.

Listen to the Super Joystiq Podcast:

A stream of the show and details about each segment is available after the break.

Listen to the MP3

Show Breakdown

  • 00:00:00 - 00:46:54 // GDC Europe Day 2 wrap-up: Alexander, Ben, Richard, Jess, Engadget's Mat Smith & VG247's Patrick Garratt
Credits
Theme Music: Satsuma Audio and Whitaker Blackall - "A Basstastic Undertaking"
Segment Bumpers: Jordan Mallory

Social Media

Joystiq video Around the Web
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel
Follow Joystiq on Twitch.tv for future streams and giveaways

Podcast Production
Alexander Sliwinski and Jonathan Downin


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Sunday, August 19, 2012

Super Joystiq Podcast 013: Grand Theft Auto 5, Zynga in trouble, New Super Mario Bros. 2

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This week's Super Joystiq Podcast welcomes you to Jurassic Park.

Xav returns alongside Richard and JC to discuss the latest games on their radar including New Super Mario Bros. 2, Jurassic Park Builder, and Great Big War Game. Segment One also includes a new "Talk Back" feature, where editors discuss a bevy of questions pulled from the comments in and around the video game industry, like: "What is one franchise you couldn't live without and one you could do without?"

In news, Alexander, Jordan, Jessica, and Mike Schramm discuss Grand Theft Auto 5's new viral campaign and its hidden status, Army of Two's latest entry, and a whole lot about Zynga's latest issues.

Be sure to check after the break to see how you can snag yourself on of six Steam codes for Awesomenauts!

Listen to the Super Joystiq Podcast:

A stream of the show and details about each segment is available after the break.

Listen to the MP3

Show Breakdown

  • 00:00:00 - 00:01:05 // Pre-Show Jabber and Intro Music
  • 00:01:06 - 00:27:43 // Intro, WRUP/Previews: Xav, JC and Richard
  • 00:27:44 - 01:01:44 // Talk Back (Leave a comment with your answers!)
  • 01:01:45 - 01:32:30 // News: Alexander, Mike Schramm, Jess, Jordan
  • 01:32:31 - 01:34:25 // Outro, giveaway winners, and a new giveaway!
Credits
Theme Music: Satsuma Audio and Whitaker Blackall - "A Basstastic Undertaking"
Segment Bumpers: Jordan Mallory

Social Media

Joystiq video Around the Web
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel
Follow Joystiq on Twitch.tv for future streams and giveaways

Talk Back Questions (Tell us your answers in the comments!)

  • Do you feel inclined to buy a single series on the same platform?
  • What difficulty level do you play your games on?
  • What is one franchise you couldn't live without and one you could stand to lose?
  • Where the hell is DOOM 4?
Breaking News and Features
Podcast Production
Xav de Matos and Jonathan Downin

Winners of Wreckateer code Giveaway
The following commenter on last week's podcast has won a code for Wreckateer on XBLA. Send an email to podcast ATT joystiq DAWT com so we can verify your information and, boom, free Wreckateer.

Joyswag: Awesomenauts code
To enter this week's giveaway:
  • Listen to the podcast. Leave a comment on this post telling us what you think about the Super Joystiq Podcast. We want your suggestions, questions, and comments!
  • You must be 17 years or older and a resident of the United States or Canada (excluding Puerto Rico and Quebec).
  • Only one entry per person.
  • This entry period ends at 12:00PM ET, Friday, August 10, 2012.
  • At that time, we'll randomly select six (6) winners to receive one (1) Awesomenauts Steam code.
  • For a list of complete rules, click here.


What is Joyswag? Since we don't keep the games and merchandise we receive for review or promotional purposes, it becomes "Joyswag," which is passed along to our readers. Please note that Joyswag may be in "used" condition.

For more info on our policy, click here.


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Rich Kidz - Nobody (Official Video) [CC]

NBA 2K13 to feature 2012 USA Basketball team as well as 1992 “Dream Team”

One of the great sports debates this summer centered around the eventual gold medal winning 2012 USA Men’s Basketball team and the original “Dream Team” that took the world by storm in 1992's summer games in Barcelona.

Could this year’s Team USA, starring LeBron James, Kevin Durant and Kobe Bryant, possibly defeat the Dream Team that was led by Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley? There was lots of shouting about that question this summer, but now we might actually be close to having an answer.

That’s because both the 2012 London team and the 1992 Barcelona squad will be playable in NBA 2K13 this fall.

Says 2K Sports VP of marketing Jason Argent, “As executive producer, letting fans go head to head with these legendary USA teams was extremely important to Jay-Z. “We are excited to partner with USA Basketball, and share in Jay-Z’s enthusiasm in making this a reality in NBA 2K13.”

Durant chimes in, “USA Basketball’s National Team legacy is incredible and so many of basketball’s all-time greats have been part of it, I’m just honored to be in that group. Like everybody, I can’t wait to see how our squad stacks up against the 1992 team in NBA 2K13.”

NBA 2K13 will be available on October 2 in the United States for PS3, Xbox 360, PSP, Wii and PC. The Wii U version will come out during the holiday season.


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New Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed trailer released

SEGA has released a new trailer for Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed.  The latest trailer features a closer look at land, air, and sea racing as well as a few new race tracks. Check it out below and let us know what you think in the comments section.


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Super Joystiq Podcast Gamescom 2012 special: Day 3

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Gamescom 2012 is officially under way and we're back again with a guest-packed show.

Alexander, Ben, Richard, and Jess are back and joined by Rami Ismail from Vlambeer to discuss the indie game scene and how the developer handles copying of game concepts.

In the second segment, Garth DeAngelis and Jacob Solomon from Firaxis join the show to talk about their job titles, how creative decisions get made, and eventually get around XCOM: Enemy Unknown.

Hello Games rounds out the show with Sean Murray, Grant Duncan and David Ream touching on the evolution of the studio, from a four-person team packed in tiny office to a massive 10-person team working bohemian-style out of a warehouse. The guys also provide tips on how to travel internationally throughout Europe without a passport, and even talk about the forthcoming Joe Danger 2 The Movie.

Stay tuned throughout the week for more daily specials out of GDC Europe and Gamescom 2012 in Germany.

Listen to the Super Joystiq Podcast:

A stream of the show and details about each segment is available after the break.

Listen to the MP3

Show Breakdown

  • 00:00:00 - 00:38:39 // Rami Ismail from Vlambeer
  • 00:38:40 - 01:21:58 // Garth DeAngelis and Jacob Solomon from Firaxis
  • 01:21:59 - 02:02:28 // Sean Murray, Grant Duncan and David Ream from Hello Games
Credits
Theme Music: Satsuma Audio and Whitaker Blackall - "A Basstastic Undertaking"
Segment Bumpers: Jordan Mallory

Social Media

Joystiq video Around the Web
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel
Follow Joystiq on Twitch.tv for future streams and giveaways

Podcast Production
Gamescom crew and Jonathan Downin


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Yoshia on PS Vita: “Our priority right now is definitely to bring more content”

In a recent interview at Gamescon in Germany, Worldwide Studios president Shuhei Yoshida discussed the successes and failures of the PlayStation Vita. Yoshida explained that while the people who have actually tried playing the Vita have enjoyed it, Sony’s problem has been getting the handheld into more people’s hands.

“In terms of the reactions of the people who have already bought the Vita, we’re very happy,” he said, “They are happy with the hardware. In terms of the sales, we’d definitely like to see more… Our priority right now is definitely to bring more content.”

The key to more content is getting mores studios besides Sony’s own Worldwide to produce games for the Vita. Right now, it seems, the hardware is not being used to its full potential.

“The good thing is that the one thing we can’t change is the hardware features, but they are very well regarded by people,” said Yoshida, “But in terms of new content and new system and service features, we can add that, and we can work with third-parties to get more.”

Of course, another good way to get more Vitas off the shelves is to lower the price. Yoshida confirms that Sony is working on ways to make purchasing the portable system more enticing.

“And for the people who are hoping that the PS Vita becomes more affordable,” he said, “We are creating new bundles and adding new value to the package. We’re hoping that this Christmas more people will jump over to the Vita.”


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Super Joystiq Podcast 014: Silent Hill HD patches, Wii U, Ouya funded, Steam software

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This week's Super Joystiq Podcast will not release on Xbox 360 due to "technical issues." Hey, it is what it is.

Richard is back on duty this week, and Alexander and Jess join the fun for a thorough recap of the week. On the games front, Richard has been playing Hybrid and Lucius, and as unique as 5th Cell's latest is, Lucius may be even weirder. Also, Jess hits indie puzzle game A Virus Named Tom. Talk Back features a number of topics including Sony losing The Last Guardian trademark, Wii U purchasing intent (or lack thereof), exclusive Assassin's Creed 3 DLC on PS3, and more.

In news, JC takes the reigns and guides Ludwig and Mike Suszek through the week's big stories. Needless to say, the guys are stoked at the prospect of picking up loads of classic productivity software from the inevitable Steam software sales.

Be sure to check after the break to see how you can snag yourself a Razer BlackWidow Ultimate keyboard!

And don't forget to keep it locked here on Joystiq next week for daily Super Joystiq Podcast specials straight from Gamescom 2012 in Germany.

Listen to the Super Joystiq Podcast:

A stream of the show and details about each segment is available after the break.

Listen to the MP3

Show Breakdown

  • 00:00:00 - 00:00:48 // Pre-Show Jabber and Intro Music
  • 00:00:49 - 00:53:06 // Intro, WRUP/Previews: Richard, Alexander & Jess
  • 00:53:07 - 01:15:07 // News: JC, Ludwig & Mike Suszek
  • 01:15:08 - 01:18:33 // Outro, giveaway winners, and a new giveaway!
Credits
Theme Music: Satsuma Audio and Whitaker Blackall - "A Basstastic Undertaking"
Segment Bumpers: Jordan Mallory

Social Media

Joystiq video Around the Web
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel
Follow Joystiq on Twitch.tv for future streams and giveaways

Talk Back Questions (Tell us your answers in the comments!)

  • With Persona 4 Arena putting an RPG world into another genre, what other franchises would you like to see go into a different genre for a spinoff (Eg. Halo went RTS)
  • Is Sony's loss of The Last Guardian trademark cause for concern?
  • Is getting a next-gen console out first going still important? If so, isn't Wii U going to win it all, again?
  • Silent Hill HD Collection on Xbox is has issues and won't be fixed. Should it still be sold?
  • How should Nintendo market Wii U?
Breaking News and Features
Podcast Production
Richard Mitchell and Jonathan Downin

Winners of Awesomenauts code Giveaway
The following commenters on last week's podcast have won codes for Awesomenaughts on Steam. Send an email to podcast ATT joystiq DAWT com so we can verify your information and, boom, free Awesomenauts.

  • MatthewdMichaudGr
  • Grimcicle
  • tychoquad
  • conar chcpl1
  • Arturuo Salazar 1
  • ebrodzki
Joyswag: Razer BlackWidow Ultimate keyboard
To enter this week's giveaway:
  • Listen to the podcast. Leave a comment on this post telling us what you think about the Super Joystiq Podcast. We want your suggestions, questions, and comments!
  • You must be 17 years or older and a resident of the United States or Canada (excluding Puerto Rico and Quebec).
  • Only one entry per person.
  • This entry period ends at 12:00PM ET, Friday, August 17, 2012.
  • At that time, we'll randomly select one (1) winner to receive a Razer BlackWidow Ultimate keyboard.
  • For a list of complete rules, click here.


What is Joyswag? Since we don't keep the games and merchandise we receive for review or promotional purposes, it becomes "Joyswag," which is passed along to our readers. Please note that Joyswag may be in "used" condition.

For more info on our policy, click here.


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Saturday, August 18, 2012

Super Joystiq Podcast Gamescom 2012 special: Day 1

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Welcome to the first special episode from our Gamescom 2012 coverage. The opening bell of Gamescom is still a few days away, but GDC Europe is under way, and we have it covered.

In the first segment, Alexander and Ben are joined by Mattias Myllyrinne of Remedy to discuss the motivations and approach to game design in the era of microtransactions, something Remedy has recently tackled with Death Rally. Myllyrinne also touches on Max Payne, Alan Wake, and how the landscape for future projects.

In the second segment, Alexander, Ben, Richard, and Jess check in with thoughts on the first days of GDC Europe 2012. As a developer convention, there are plenty of panels and developer-centric discussions happening at the show. Be sure to stick around for insight into the storytelling mechanics of Dear Esther, the finances of a successful indie studio, ruminations on site ethics and the impact of coverage, and more.

And don't forget, we'll be back every day this week with specials out of GDC Europe and Gamescom 2012 in Germany.

Listen to the Super Joystiq Podcast:

A stream of the show and details about each segment is available after the break.

Listen to the MP3

Show Breakdown

  • 00:00:00 - 00:24:02 // Interview with Remedy's Mattias Myllyrinne: Alexander & Ben
  • 00:24:03 - 00:54:19 // GDC Europe Day 1 wrap-up: Alexander, Ben, Richard & Jess
Credits
Theme Music: Satsuma Audio and Whitaker Blackall - "A Basstastic Undertaking"
Segment Bumpers: Jordan Mallory

Social Media

Joystiq video Around the Web
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel
Follow Joystiq on Twitch.tv for future streams and giveaways

Podcast Production
Richard Mitchell and Jonathan Downin


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Team Fortress 2 update adds new 'Coal Town' map, upgrades

TF2 update adds new 'Coal Town' map, other stuff
The battle between Mann and Machine continues with the launch of 'Coal Town,' a museum-themed map for Team Fortress 2. Featuring "many informative placards about the fascinating details of life in a turn-of-the-century mining community," Coal Town is the second piece of content added as part of TF2's new co-op mode.

The recent update also includes upgrade stations, allowing players who collect money from downed robots to boost stats and skills of weapons, items, and abilities.

Each class in the free-to-play shooter has their own upgrades available, such as the Soldier's ability to empower his entire team. More details on the upgrades are available on the official TF2 blog.


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NBA 2K13 features US Olympic 'Dream Team' along with 2012's squad

NBA 2K13 features US Olympic team I think And some famous old guys
To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the legendary USA "Dream Team," 2K Sports is drafting the 1992 crew along with 2012's USA Men's National Team into the roster of NBA 2K13, the publisher has revealed.

NBA 2K13 executive producer Jay-Z (a legend on his own), said that the ability to pit the two National teams against each other will give fans the tools to solve "one of the greatest sports debates of our time." Who would come out on top? The 1992 "Dream Team" or this year's Olympic squad? It's up to you.

"In NBA 2K13, we're giving fans the opportunity to play as two of the best teams ever assembled in sporting history, literally putting the debate right into their hands," Jay-Z added.

Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and Charles Barkley make up a few members of the legendary squad. Scottie Pippen – wearing the #8 jersey in 1992 – appears to be the only member absent from the team.

NBA 2K13 launches for the PC, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii, and PSP on October 2. A Wii U version is planned for this holiday season.

Show full PR text

NBA 2K13 to Feature 2012 USA Basketball Men's National Team and Legendary 1992 "Dream Team"

2K Sports proudly announces partnership with USA Basketball for NBA 2K13

New York, NY – August 15, 2012 – 2K Sports today announced a partnership with USA Basketball to feature both the star-studded 2012 USA Basketball Men's National Team and the 1992 "Dream Team" in NBA 2K13, the next installment of the top-selling and top-rated NBA video game simulation franchise*.

"As executive producer, letting fans go head to head with these legendary USA teams was extremely important to JAY Z," said Jason Argent, vice president of marketing for 2K Sports. "We are excited to partner with USA Basketball, and share in JAY Z's enthusiasm in making this a reality in NBA 2K13."

The 2012 USA Basketball Men's National Team has earned recognition as one of USA Basketball's all-time greatest teams. NBA 2K13 cover athlete Kevin Durant helped lead the USA to its successful showing and joins the elite list of accomplished basketball players who have represented USA Basketball.

"It was an incredible blessing to have been part of the 2012 USA Basketball National Team," said Durant. "USA Basketball's National Team legacy is incredible and so many of basketball's all-time greats have been part of it, I'm just honored to be in that group. Like everybody, I can't wait to see how our squad stacks up against the 1992 team in NBA 2K13."

The original "Dream Team" is widely considered the most dominant sports team ever assembled, and featured 11 Hall of Fame players including Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Clyde Drexler, Karl Malone, Chris Mullin, David Robinson and Charles Barkley.

"The experience we shared in Barcelona is truly one of the highlights of my career," said five-time NBA MVP and former NBA 2K cover athlete Michael Jordan. "Being able to represent not only my country but basketball as a whole is an honor that I will never forget."

"The fantasy matchup between the legendary 1992 'Dream Team' and the 2012 USA Men's national team has become one of the greatest sports debates of our time," stated JAY Z, the Executive Producer of NBA 2K13. "In NBA 2K13, we're giving fans the opportunity to play as two of the best teams ever assembled in sporting history, literally putting the debate right into their hands."

Developed by Visual Concepts, a 2K Sports studio, NBA 2K13 is not yet rated by the ESRB and will be available on October 2, 2012 in North America and October 5, 2012 internationally for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system, PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system, Wii™ system and Windows PC. The Wii U™ version of the title will be available during the holiday season. Fans are encouraged to pre-order now at participating retailers in order to receive the NBA All-Star content on day one at no extra cost.

For more information on 2K Sports, visit www.2KSports.com.

For more information on NBA 2K13, visit www.facebook.com/NBA2K.

2K Sports is a division of 2K, a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO).

*According to 2008 - 2012 Gamerankings.com and The NPD Group estimates of U.S. retail video game sales through July 2012.


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Two Larian PCs stolen at Gamescom

How despicable! Two PCs were stolen from Larian’s booth in the business hall at Gamescom, containing early builds of Divinity: Dragon Commander and Divinity: Original Sin.

Larian is offering a $5000 reward to anyone that has information leading to the identification of the thief and return of the PCs. Luckily, the team brought backup PCs so they didn’t have to completely shut down their booth.

If you’re at Gamescom and have any information please speak up! These developers work too hard to have their work stolen. You can head to Business Hall 4.2, Booth A-16 to let the team know.


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Explore the mysteries of Cognition in this new trailer


Now that Cognition: An Erica Reed Thriller from indie dev Phoenix Online Studios has a publisher, it's time to get the promotion train going! Here's a new trailer for the adventure game's first episode, 'The Hangman.'

View the original article here

Black Ops 2 in-game 'Shoutcasting' video tour

Black Ops 2 ingame 'Shoutcasting' video tour


When Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 launches on November 13, it will feature built-in tools that allow players on any platform to livestream their multiplayer sessions to the web. No capture boxes or special software required.

For competitive video game commentators – or anyone who wants to shoutcast a match of Call of Duty – Black Ops 2 also features a slew of in-game options to control the action as it happens live or from watching a replay. You can adjust items on the HUD, add scoreboards and user name cards, jump to the map showing all users, listen in on team mics to hear their strategies, and more.

If you're worried the tools could help opponents get the upper hand, Treyarch has thought about it. Players in the middle of a game won't hear the shoutcasters do their thing and the online time delay is such that it wouldn't make a difference if someone you were playing against was watching the same match. There's also the ability to turn off streaming for certain kinds of matches – like a tournament you've organized.

The tools both embrace the growing world of eSports and advance the possibilities of gaming. In-game streaming and shoutcasting tools have made it to the top of our "every game should have this feature" list. And you don't need a pair of commentators explaining the on-screen action in order to make use of the new feature, you could just stream it worldwide at any time for any reason.

Joystiq had a chance to play with the feature and discuss its tools with Treyarch advisor (and pro shoutcaster) Mike Rufail as a group of journalists battled it out in a multi-team deathmatch on the Yemen map in Black Ops 2. Watch the mayhem (and why I shouldn't quit my day job) above.


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Friday, August 17, 2012

Steam Community upgrade day two: Groups

Steam Community update day 2 Groups
Valve has previewed the second part of its master plan to upgrade Steam communities, today previewing a handful of changes coming to user groups.

Under the update, user groups will feature a group-specific discussion area and a new layout with better member visibility, making it "easier to see what a group is really about."

Groups can also affiliate themselves with their favorite games and set language settings, which Valve says will make finding groups of interest an easier endeavor. And no, you can't make a group professing your love for Half-Life 3 just yet. Valve isn't talking about it!


View the original article here

The invisible made visible in PS3's Rain

Rain trailerteaser site


SCE Japan Studio's puzzle-adventure game Rain is a lot more intriguing, and its trailer much more quietly beautiful, when you can actually see it. Sony released yesterday's trailer online this morning, allowing you to get as good a look as you can considering the protagonist's invisible nature.

View the original article here

Ubisoft releases bass guitar expansion for Rocksmith

Yesterday, Ubisoft announced to the press that they will be releasing an expansion for their hit music game Rocksmith that will allow bassists to rock out to favorite jams. The DLC, which will be made available for the Xbox 360 and PS3 for $29.99 and will add bass parts to the original 53 tracks in the game. If you own Rocksmith DLC, the expansion will also add bass parts to any tracks you have purchased.

Players can plug in any real bass guitar to play along, or if you don’t own a bass guitar, you can also use a six-string guitar and the game will emulate the bass playing experience on four strings. The bass expansion also allows access to “all-new bass guitar features”, including tutorials, bass pedals, amps, and technique challenges.

Starting tomorrow, the standard edition of the game which retails for $79.99 will also come with the bass tracks included. Interested in finding out more? You can hit up the official Rocksmith website at www.rocksmith.com.


View the original article here

Worldwide open beta for Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Online now live

Today Ubisoft announced that starting this very day, the 15th of August, they are launching the open beta for their anticipated F2P tactical shooter Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Online.

The game looks to feature futuristic squad based combat, relying heavily on teamwork and the use of hi-tech gadgetry. Players choose from one of three classes: Assault, Recon, or Specialist and head into combat on a variety of detailed maps.

Some of the futuristic gadgets include a squad covering defense shield (think force field) and back-worn heat device that keeps enemies at bay. Interesting weaponry to say the least.

Sound intriguing? Head over to http://www.ghostrecononline.com/ to register for the open beta now and start playing. It looks like alot of fun and I personally plan on downloading the game right after I finish writing this.

Check out the release trailer below if you want a sneak peek:


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Command & Conquer Generals 2 launching as part of free-to-play C&C service

Command & Conquer Generals 2 launching as part of freetoplay C&C service


Command & Conquer Generals 2, originally announced at the VGAs as a new retail game by BioWare Victory, will now be released as the first "universe" of a free-to-play service called simply "Command & Conquer."

Command & Conquer will launch next year as a platform for the delivery of new experiences in the strategy franchise, starting with the material originally planned as Generals 2. This move allows "gamers complete access to the cutting-edge visuals, sound and destruction of a full, AAA strategy game – for free," as EA puts it. Future "universes" will include Red Alert and Tiberium.

We'll find out more about this sudden transition, and this new service, at Gamescom. Closed beta access will be given to some fans who sign up at the official site.

Show full PR text

EA ANNOUNCES COMMAND & CONQUER A NEW FREE-TO- PLAY DESTINATION POWERED BY FROSTBITE 2
Command & Conquer Generals 2 Transforms into a New Digital Platform for the Legendary Strategy Franchise

COLOGNE, Germany – August 15, 2012 – Today at gamescom, the world's largest trade fair and event for interactive games and entertainment, Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: EA) took a bold step to spearhead the industry's digital revolution and announced Command & Conquer. The previously announced Command & Conquer Generals 2 has been transformed to be a part of this new digital experience, giving gamers complete access to the cutting-edge visuals, sound and destruction of a full, AAA strategy game – for free. The new online platform and service will launch in 2013, with the Generals universe representing the first of many free offerings within the storied franchise EA is planning to launch with Command & Conquer.

With a familiar blend of cerebral, strategic gameplay and fun, fast-paced action, Command & Conquer will deliver an authentic and modern RTS experience that will instantly exhilarate longtime fans and captivate new players. Gamers can sign up for a chance to be among the first to try the closed beta of Command & Conquer at www.CommandandConquer.com/free.

"We are thrilled about this opportunity to transform Command and Conquer into a premier online experience," said Jon Van Caneghem, VP/GM at EA. "For nearly two decades, this franchise has existed as something you buy; now we are creating a destination where our fans will be able to access the entire Command and Conquer universe, starting with Generals and continuing with Red Alert, Tiberium, and beyond. With Frostbite 2, we are able to keep an emphasis on the AAA quality our consumers expect while staying true to the RTS gameplay they know and love – all available online for free."

An all out war rages in Command & Conquer, as players take control of multiple factions, compete for resources, build up operation bases, and lead massive batteries of tanks, soldiers, and aircraft into battle. With incredibly detailed units, fully destructible environments, dynamic physics, and exhilarating visual effects, Command & Conquer is poised to re-define what gamers expect from a strategy game. Heralding feedback driven design, Command & Conquer will evolve and develop with an expanding array of new content based on community feedback.

Command & Conquer will be available as a free, client-based game for the PC in 2013. For more information on and to register for a chance to be selected for closed beta access, please visit www.CommandandConquer.com/free.Follow the game on Twitter at http://twitter.com/OfficialCnC or "Like" Command & Conquer on Facebook at http://facebook.com/commandandconquer.
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007 Legends has a Licence to Die Another Day

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ACTIVISION PUBLISHING REVEALS DIE ANOTHER DAY AND LICENCE TO KILL AS NEXT MOVIE-INSPIRED MISSIONS IN 007™ LEGENDS VIDEO GAME

Santa Monica, CA - August 15, 2012- With Moonraker and On Her Majesty's Secret Service already unveiled, Activision Publishing, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Activision Blizzard Inc., (Nasdaq: ATVI) revealed today Die Another Day and Licence to Kill as the third and fourth Bond movie-inspired missions included in this year's upcoming 007™ Legends video game. A first-of-its-kind Bond gaming experience, 007 Legends features an original, overarching storyline tying together five classic Bond movie-inspired missions, plus a sixth mission based on this year's highly-anticipated movie - SKYFALL - which will be available post launch as downloadable content. Set to offer the most diverse Bond gaming experience yet, each 007 Legends mission includes multiple levels featuring re-imagined movie moments that showcase state-of-the-art spy gadgets, an arsenal of weapons and sleek vehicles in exotic locations that best utilize Bond's quick wits and style to take down notorious villains and their brutal henchmen.

"The method of picking which James Bond movies to include in 007 Legends was a deep and thoughtful process between Eurocom, Activision, EON and Danjaq," said David G. Wilson, VP of Global Business Strategy, EON. "We took great care in selecting movies that helped define who Bond has become over the years, and ones that could be tied together in a compelling way to pay homage to 50 years of 007."

In 007 Legends' Die Another Day movie-inspired mission, the quintessential secret agent is sent to rendezvous with Agent Jinx to investigate the connection between Gustav Graves - a diamond mogul funding the development of an international space weapon called Icarus - and a North Korean terrorist set on unifying his country once and for all. With Jinx's help, Bond must chase down Graves, racing along ice while duelling against North Korean spies and Graves' allies, all while dodging concentrated blasts of solar energy from the Icarus weapon. After confronting Graves on his high-flying jet, Bond must prevent triggering a war between North and South Korea and escape the stricken jet before it's destroyed.

In the Licence to Kill movie-inspired mission, Bond enlists the help of U.S. Drug Enforcement Agent Pam Bouvier in order to avenge Felix Leiter and uncover a vast international drug operation headed by an evil Mexican drug lord with terrorist connections - Fran Sanchez. After detonating a massive explosion in Sanchez's drug refinery, Bond will have to capture Sanchez before he escapes, ending in a brutal physical confrontation on-board a moving tanker truck. Will Bond be able to avenge his friend or will he be killed by Sanchez?

Toby Stephens (Die Another Day) and Carey Lowell (Licence to Kill) both reprise their roles as Gustav Graves from Die Another Day and Agent Pam Bouvier from Licence to Kill, respectively, rounding out the impressive 007 Legends' cast.

For more intel about 007 Legends and to unlock exclusive content, visit the game's official Web site - www.007Legends.com- and Facebook page - www.facebook.com/007LegendsGame. 007 Legends is being developed by Eurocom, under license from EON Productions Ltd. and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios, Inc. (MGM) for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system and download on Windows PC, and is currently rated "RP" (Rating Pending) by the ESRB.

About Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc.
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc., through its operating subsidiaries, is actively engaged in the worldwide production and distribution of motion pictures, television programming, home video, interactive media, music and licensed merchandise. The company owns the world's largest library of modern films, comprising around 4,100 titles. Operating units include Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc., Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., United Artists Films Inc., Ventanazul, MGM Television Entertainment Inc., MGM Networks Inc., MGM Domestic Networks LLC, MGM Distribution Co, MGM International Television Distribution Inc., Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Home Entertainment LLC, MGM ON STAGE, MGM Music, MGM Worldwide Digital Media, MGM Consumer Products and MGM Interactive. In addition, MGM has ownership interests in international TV channels reaching nearly 120 countries. MGM ownership is as follows: Providence Equity Partners (29%), TPG (21%), Sony Corporation of America (20%), Comcast (20%), DLJ Merchant Banking Partners (7%) and Quadrangle Group (3%). For more information, visit www.mgm.com.

About EON Productions/Danjaq, LLC
EON Productions Limited and Danjaq LLC are wholly owned and controlled by the Broccoli/Wilson family. Danjaq is the US based company that co-owns, with MGM, the copyright in the existing James Bond films and controls the right to produce future James Bond films as well as all worldwide merchandising. EON Productions, an affiliate of Danjaq, is the UK based production company which makes the James Bond films. The 007 franchise is the longest running in film history with twenty-two films produced since 1962. Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli succeeded Albert R 'Cubby' Broccoli in 1995 and have produced some of the most successful Bond films ever including CASINO ROYALE and QUANTUM OF SOLACE. They are currently producing the 23rd film, SKYFALL. For more information, visit www.007.com.

About Activision Publishing, Inc.
Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, Activision Publishing, Inc. is a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and leisure products.

Activision maintains operations in the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, Spain, Norway, Denmark, the Netherlands, Australia, mainland China and the region of Taiwan. More information about Activision and its products can be found on the company's website, www.activision.com.


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Thursday, August 16, 2012

EA to release F2P Command and Conquer

At Gamescom today, EA announced their plans to bring fans of the Command and Conquer a triple A,  free-to-play experience powered by the Frostbite 2 engine. The use of the Frostbite 2 engine will allow for detailed units, destructible environments, dynamic physics and changing environments. These are elements which haven’t been tapped into much in a RTS game before, so the game should be pretty interesting.

“We are thrilled about this opportunity to transform Command & Conquer into a premier online experience,” said Jon Van Caneghem, VP/GM at EA. ”For nearly two decades, this franchise has existed as something you buy; now we are creating a destination where our fans will be able to access the entire Command & Conquer universe, starting with Generals and continuing with Red Alert, Tiberium and beyond. With Frostbite 2, we are able to keep an emphasis on the AAA quality our consumers expect while staying true to the RTS gameplay they know and love — all available online for free.”

The game is set to hit the PC sometime in 2013, but you can register for your chance to be part of the closed beta now. Head on over www.CommandandConquer.com/free and fill out the application and you might get to try the game out before the masses. EA also released a trailer for the announcement which can be seen below. Enjoy!


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Metal Gear Rising seeks Revengeance Feb. 19 in North America [update]

Metal Gear Rising seeks Revengeance Feb 21 in Europe


Hideo Kojima, acting as his own PR, tweeted an image of the Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance website, which features a new trailer (above) and a Feb. 21, 2013 release date.

Given that this is the Japanese site and a Japanese trailer (which you should totally watch) it follows that this is the Japanese release date. We're currently looking into dates for other regions.


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